Thursday, February 28, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

James 4:7-10 ... Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

Luke 6:45 ... A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

Luke 6:47-49 ... Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: 48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. 49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

Continuing even when rejected

Pam Padgett ... teacher

When Jesus went to Nazareth, where He had grown up, He went to the synagogue.  After reading from the book of the prophet Esaias (Isaiah) of one to come in the Spirit of the Lord preaching the gospel, Jesus told those in the synagogue this scripture was being fulfilled before them, letting them know that He was the one spoke of by Isaiah  ...

Luke 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. 17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, 18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. 20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

Although they had listened intently to what Jesus said and wondered at His words, they didn't believe on Him since He had been raised among them ...

Luke 4:22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?

When Jesus spoke about prophets not being accepted in their own country, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath and led Jesus out of the city to throw Him down a hill ...

Luke 4:23 And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country. 24 And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country. 25 But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; 26 But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. 27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian. 


28 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, 29 And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.

But Jesus passed through their midst and went His way,
going to Capernaum, and began teaching there ...

Luke 4:30 But he passing through the midst of them went his way, 31 And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.

It stood out to me that Jesus taught many things to those in the synagogue in Nazareth.  Then, when they turned against Him, Jesus simply went His way, continuing in the work He had been given to do by the Father. 

I was reminded that Jesus warned us that in the world we will have tribulations, but that He has overcome the world and we can have peace in Him.  Our peace is not dependent on those of this world.  Our peace is in God and His word given to us ...

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Faith based on what you hear from God's Spirit

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

I was born again in 1975.  Almost immediately I was confronted with a battle for faith in God.

At that time, I owned a business in Dallas, TX (USA).  A man sued me for a million dollars.  I had never heard of this man.  He charged me, along with several other dealers in American Indian Arts, with conspiring to keep him from doing business in Dallas.  He also changed the Better Business Bureau's of Dallas and Fort Worth.

It was so silly, at first I just threw the legal papers aside.  Then I realized if I didn't respond, judgment in human court would be against me so I called a lawyer and presented the case to him.

Each month, bills came from the law firm and I paid the bills.  Finally it was wearing me down financially and all my profit from the business was being eaten up by the legal costs.

At that time I was crying out to God and I was reminded, by the Holy Spirit, of a scripture:

Isaiah 54:17 ... No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.  

Certainly this law suit against me was a weapon.

I knew I was born again and a servant of God.

Therefore the promise was this weapon formed against me would not prosper.

So I called my lawyer.  I told him the above.  I told him I was going to cancel his service and go to court without any human legal counsel.

He was shocked and replied:  "Joan, you can't do this.  You don't realize how evil the courts are.  And it will only cost another $10,000 to try your case."

Then I was shocked and cried out:  "Ten-thousand-dollars?  Gordon, stop.  Do no more."

A few days later, Gordon called me and told me the law firm would try my case without any further legal charge to me.

But Gordon did not mention God.  Was this "gift" from God?

I prayed, asking God what HE wanted me to do.

I was reminded of the following scripture which showed me what God wanted in this issue.

Gen. 14 ... And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself.  22And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth, 23That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:




I knew God was showing me not to accept the free legal service.  I called Gordon and told him this and I prepared to go to court without any human legal counsel.  I was terrified.

Approximately four months passed after that before the trial date.  I lived in continual fear.  But each time the fear came, I would turn to God in prayer and HE would settle me by reminding me of a scripture.  I recorded each of these scriptures on a cassette tape and played it as I slept.  I would fall asleep to the scriptures and when I awoke in the night, I would start the tape again.

Six days before the trial date, I received a call from the lawyer of the man who was suing me.  His lawyer said this man had dropped all charges.  I asked if he dropped charges against everyone and the lawyer said, "He cut everyone loose."

A few days later, Gordon came to my shop.  He said at the law firm they had discussed this and he wanted me to know they believed what I said actually happened.  No weapon formed against me would prosper.

What happened turned out to be a witness.  But I was not thinking about being a witness.  All I was trying to do was to do what God wanted me to do.   And at each step I was seeking God to find out what HE wanted.

You will notice I wasn't trying to find a scripture to stand on.  Scriptures were brought to my mind by the Holy Spirit and by those I had my basis for faith in protection by God.

There is a big difference between hunting a scripture and hearing a scripture by the Spirit of God.

One is of the flesh and is not safe.  The other is of God and can be safely believed in the matter at hand.

This is being led by the Spirit of God.

Romans 8:14 ... For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

James 3:17-18 ... But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

Proverbs 23:17-18 ... Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long. 18 For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

Psalm 37:23-24 ... The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. 24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.

Obeying instruction from God

Pam Padgett ... teacher

At the lake of Gennesaret Jesus sat in Simon's boat and taught the people who were on the shore.  When finished teaching, Jesus told Simon to go farther out into the lake and let down the nets to bring in a catch of fish ...

Luke 5:1 And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 3 And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. 4 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

Although their efforts to catch fish the entire previous night had resulted in nothing, because Jesus told him to do this, Simon did it ...

Luke 5:5 And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. 


When they did according to what Jesus told them, they caught so many fish that two ships were filled to the point of sinking ...   

Luke 5:6 And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. 7 And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

When we have heard to do something from the Holy Spirit, thoughts sometimes come to reason it away or take us in another direction.  We can turn to God with each of these thoughts to be established in His truth. 

If we believe the instruction we have received is from the Holy Spirit (asking God to confirm this if we're not sure), we obey in faith, believing we have heard from God and trusting Him in what we are told to do.  

And we know that the word God speaks will accomplish what HE pleases ...

Isaiah 55:10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

Shown what to do by God

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

In 1975, I was born again by the Word of God.  The word came to me in the form of a thought.  "Joan, you know those mistakes you've been making all these years?"  My reply, "Yes?"  "Those weren't mistakes.  Those where sin."  SIN?  I was shocked.  I believe at that moment I was born again.  I was changed immediately. 

Shortly after this, in the night while I was sleeping I was taken into heaven.  I knew I was with God, with Jesus and with the Holy Spirit although I saw no images.  At that time, I was "merged into the body of Jesus", made one with the Word of God.  It was wonderful.  Greater than any experience or any relationship you could have on this earth.

A few days later, this exact same thing happened a second time.

After this, I was on fire for things of God.  That is all I cared about.  I owned a business at the time this happened and I no longer cared anything at all for my business.  Three women worked for me and they kept the business going.  I stayed home and read the Bible.  I surrounded myself with things that seemed to be of God, with church attendance, prayer group attendance, Bible classes.  The Bible is all I cared about.

In approximately 1978, I was persuaded I was to be a minister.  I closed my business.  I had no job to go to.  I lived from the money made from the sale of the merchandise in my business.  For approximately six months I stayed at my apartment and read the Bible all day long.

Then one night, I was awakened by a voice that was like a trumpet.  (I believe it was an angel's voice)  It was jarring.  The words spoken to me were the following:  "Hartford, Seattle, KWJS."

It was obvious to me that KWJS was either radio or TV.  I looked at radio/TV listings and found it to be a radio station in Arlington, TX (Dallas area).

I said to God:  "Are you telling me to go on radio?  I know nothing at all about radio.  I'm not a speaker.  I'm a writer.  I wouldn't know how to do this."

A gentle thought came to me after I prayed:  "Call the radio station manager."

Immediately I found the phone number for KWJS radio and I called the radio station manager and I told him God might be leading me to go on radio and I asked him how to do that.

The station manager told me to make an audition tape 29 1/2 minutes long and send it to him.  If I fit with their program, he would offer me a contract to go on radio 5 days a week, 30 minutes a day.  The cost to me would be $800 a month.

I asked God how HE wanted me to pay for broadcasts.

A gentle thought came:  Write a letter to everyone you know telling what happened.

I did this.  I did not ask for money.  I just told what had happened.  Within 24 hours people had sent enough money to pay for the first month of broadcasts.  One man carried money to the door of my apartment and gave it to me.

After speaking with the radio station manager, I sat down immediately and made a tape and sent it to station manager.  I was offered a contract immediately and in less that a week I was on radio.

This is how God put me on radio.

Unfortunately many people who want to be ministers figure out in their own minds what to do and mostly they just copy other people who are ministers.  And usually they end up begging for money to pay for their works.

But each time I've done something, it is because the Spirit of God was speaking to me one way or another and each time God provided the money for the work without my having to beg people for money.

Romans 8:14 ... For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

James 1:26-27 ... If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. 27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

Isaiah 25:9 ... And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.

Isaiah 26:3-4 ... Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 4 Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength:

1 Timothy 3:16 ... And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

Serving God, not causes of this world

Pam Padgett ... teacher

There are many worldly "causes" that may seem worthwhile and even good to our flesh.  We can sometimes be drawn to these causes and affected by them, even if not actively involved in them.  But, being of the flesh, they are vain and fleeting.  In the Bible we have examples of things that could easily stir up the flesh but were not pursued, while things of God and doing the will of God were of great importance. 

While reading in Luke 2 it stood out to me that the reason Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem was because Caesar Augustus had decreed that all in the world should be taxed.  Taxation is something that frequently stirs people to take action in the world, but isn't mentioned as an issue here at all.  God sending His Son to be the Savior of the world, born in the city of David as had been prophesied, is what was important and worthy of praise ....


Luke 2:1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

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Another example is that Claudius had commanded all Jews to leave Rome, something the flesh would want to take up as a cause.  But because of this, Aquila and Priscilla were in Corinth when Paul came. 
And the accounts we have of Aquila and Priscilla have nothing to do with the Jews being required to leave Rome.  Instead, we know they believed in Jesus and helped those in the church.  These things are important.  

Acts 18:1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; 2 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

Acts 18:24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

Romans 16:3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:  4 Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.


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Joan and I were recently talking about worldly causes.  She was reminded that when John the Baptist was beheaded, Jesus didn't start a cause in this regard.  Instead, Jesus continued to do the work He was given by the Father to do ...

Matthew 14:12 And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.  13 When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. 14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.

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Recently I've been dealing with a fleshly cause I had taken up.  Strangely it has to do with World War II which started over 70 years ago, well before I was even born.  There was an idol in my heart, exalting the Allied forces as being noble because they fought the Germans who had done such horrible things, such as the concentration camps. 
I was exalting the Allies as good and noble in my heart. Jesus taught us   ... there is none good but one, that is, God:(Matthew 19:17)
 
As God has been working with me to break down this idol, one of the things that stood out to me is that this world is not our home. We are strangers and pilgrim here.  Although there are various causes that stir up our flesh, our focus should be to exalt and serve God, following the leading of the Holy Spirit instead of our flesh, knowing that God has prepared a better place for us.


Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Translated by God

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

Heb. 11:5 ... By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.



Translated means to be changed from one form to another form.

Death is an attack against the flesh of man.  To avoid death, God translated Enoch from the human fleshly form which is subject to death to another form that Enoch would not see death.

Paul explains that not all will die.  When Jesus returns those who are alive at the time will be changed in a twinkling of an eye.  They, like Enoch, will be translated from this current human form to another form for it would be impossible for these current human bodies to go to heaven since they are corruptible.

Paul says:  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. 54So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Cor. 15

This will be an instant change ... blink your eyes ... we will be changed that quickly, "in the twinkling of an eye".

After we are changed, we rise to meet Jesus in the air.  The dead in Christ rise first, then those who are alive will be changed and rise.

I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (concerning those who have already 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 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 (go before) 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. 

Another form of translation takes place when we are born again.  But that translation is not a bodily translation but a translation in the spirit for when that happens we are changed and we are given the Spirit of God to dwell in us and lead us and guide us.  (Jn. 14:26 & Jn. 16:13)  And so we are ever with the Lord by HIS Spirit for by HIS Spirit we are one with Jesus and also by HIS Spirit we know the will of God for the Spirit of God searches the heart of God to reveal the will of God to us who belong to HIM.  (I Cor. 2)

And because we have HIS Spirit and follow HIS Spirit we know we belong to God and others who belong to God know we belong to God because we follow the Spirit of God and so do they.

Romans 8:14 ... For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

Recently I had some repair work done on my house.  A man sat with me for about 2 hours one day and we spoke of things of God.  I shared many dreams and other instances where I followed God by faith.  This man freely spoke as we met together.  But after he left, I had the thought, "What did he say that showed God?"  And when I examined what had just happened I could think of nothing this man said that showed God in Him.  He just parroted things which preachers have said.  This man is probably not led by the Spirit of God since there is no evidence of the Spirit of God in him.  By the Spirit of God we know the children of God. (In subsequent meetings he said things which clearly showed me that he doesn't understand things of God.)

Jesus said:  Take heed that no man deceive you. 5For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. Mt. 24

Many will come to us saying "Jesus is Lord".  They will come saying they believe the Bible.  They will sound like Christians.  But where is the evidence of the Spirit of God in them and what do they say that shows God is leading them by His Spirit.  When we examine that, we will not deceive ourselves.

Monday, February 25, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Hebrews 13:5-6 ... Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have:for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

1 Corinthians 2:9-10 ... But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

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 brings about good when others mean evil

Pam Padgett ... teacher

When Paul came to Ephesis, he taught in the synagogue for three months ...

Acts 19:8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.

But when some who didn't believe began to speak evil of what Paul taught, he and the disciples who believed left.  Paul spoke the word of the Lord in a school for two years where all in Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard ...

Acts 19:9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus. 10 And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

Although the unbelievers in the synagogue came against Paul and what he spoke, when Paul left there and went to the school of Tyrannus, he was able to speak about Jesus, not only to the Jews, but also to the Greeks, to all who lived in Asia. 

I was reminded of Joseph who, after being sold into Egypt by his brothers who envied him, was eventually set over all the land of Egypt.  Joseph stored food during seven years of plenty and sold it during the seven years of famine, feeding many people including his own father and brothers.  When his brothers feared Joseph and sent messengers to him, Joseph told them not to fear.  Even though they had thought evil against him, God meant it for good ....

Genesis 50:16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying, 17 So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. 18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants. 19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? 20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

Both Joseph and Paul spoke the word God had given them, Joseph telling dreams from God showing he would reign over his brothers, and Paul speaking about Jesus.  Evil was meant against both of them as a result.  But God brought about good according to His purpose.

Romans 8:28 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.

Plans for future

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

More and more, I find myself saying, "If we are still here next year ..." when I speak of what someone is planning for next year.

I have no plans for future (other than eye doctor appointment and tooth cleaning appointment).  If we are still on the earth, I will probably keep those appointments.

Everything for me is "If we are still here on this earth."

James 4 ... Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.  15For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will,  we shall live, and do this, or that. 16But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.  

Jesus taught:  No man 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.
25Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 28And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: 29And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 31Therefore 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. 33But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 34Take 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. 




Peter explained:  But 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;






So if you do have plans for future, consider those plans in light of the above scripture.

I have just finished reading a secular book which is set in Singapore in 1941.  The head of a rubber corporation is planning for the anniversary year of the company which will take place in 1942.  He is consumed with deciding what will be in the parade, and who will ride on each float, and getting the floats built.  All this is going on as the Japanese are moving down the mainland enroute to Singapore.  Even as the bombs are falling this man is building floats.  He ends up escaping by boat and pieces of his floats are seen from time to time floating about in the bay.

All the worry and fretting over future is like that.  Therefore the Bible warns us not to go that way.

And when Jesus returns, we know the powers of heaven will be shaken.  When the sky goes dark, or if it is night and we hear a great noise (no one will miss this event), then we are told to look up for our redemption draweth nigh. Lk. 21:28

In meantime we are told to take no thought for tomorrow.

And if we do think of tomorrow, we say, "If the Lord wills ..." or maybe "If I'm still on the earth ..."  All other words are boasting and evil says James.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Hebrews 12:1-3 ... Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

2 Corinthians 2:14-16 ... Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?

Light from God when we turn to Him

Pam Padgett ... teacher

Psalm 34:5 They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.

In whatever we're dealing with, when we turn to God and hear from Him, that which God gives us is light for us ... showing us what we need in order to move forward according to His will.  We have light from God on the matter. 

Psalm 36:9 For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.

Those who are of God are led by the Spirit of God

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

Before doing something, God shows me, by His Spirit, to do it.

In approximately 2000, I had a dream where I was building a new house.  I was viewing the construction site.

But I wasn't building a house.

Then my mother died and 2002, and immediately I put the house in Clovis, NM (USA) up for sale and made plans to move to Lubbock, TX (USA).  I met with realtor in Lubbock and saw a few properties but I never could get past the dream where I was "building" a house and the "lot" I saw in the dream.

I met with contractor in Lubbock and was shown some lots and I saw the exact lot that I had seen in the dream and I bought that lot.  A few years later, there were other locations in Lubbock that seemed more desirable to me but again I remembered the dream and knew by that God had selected that location for me.

Acts 17:26 / NIV ... HE (God) determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.

Some people act by their own reasoning on the matter.  I do not do this.  I have to be shown by God before doing anything.  Sometimes HE shows me in a dream.  There was one time HE had what I believe to have been an angel speak to me giving me call letters to a radio stations and putting me on radio in a week from the time HE spoke the call letters to me.  Sometimes I'm led by a scripture.  Sometimes I just hear something from the Spirit of God in the form of a thought.  But always there is that word from God on the issue at hand before I do anything.  This is what it means to be led by the Spirit of God.

Romans 8:14 ... For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
In the Old Testament, when God led HIS children out of Egypt, HE gave them a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night to show them when to move.  They didn't move until the cloud (or fire) moved.  Thus they followed God.

Today, we have been given the Spirit of God when we belong to God.  The Spirit of God searches the heart of God to reveal the will of God to us.  We know God's will by that which His Spirit reveals to us concerning the specific matters at hand.

So when the Spirit shows us something we move by the Spirit.

And when we hear nothing on the issue we remain still.

Numbers 9 ... And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents. 18At the commandment of the LORD the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the LORD they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents. 19And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the LORD, and journeyed not.  20And so it was, when the cloud was a few days upon the tabernacle; according to the commandment of the LORD they abode in their tents, and according to the commandment of the LORD they journeyed. 21And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed.  22Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed. 23At the commandment of the LORD they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the LORD they journeyed: they kept the charge of the LORD, at the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

 So if that person is stumbling about and shows no sign of having a Word from God on the issue at hand is that person being led by the Spirit of God?  Probably not.  Often people are led by their own "good" ideas, their own reasonings from their own minds, by their pastor or others in their church groups.  This is not being led by the Spirit of God.

But those who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of God .  And there will be something tangible behind their acts of faith.  And it will be a word from God moving them by HIS Spirit.

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Psalm 33:4 ... For the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth.

Psalm 8:1 ... O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.

Romans 1:16-17 ... For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Jesus paid for our sins; no more sacrifice is needed

Pam Padgett ... teacher


When Jesus died on the cross, one of the things that happened is that the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom ...

Mark 15:37 And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. 38 And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.

As I read about the veil of the temple being torn, I thought of how Jesus is the perfect sacrifice, completely paying for our sins, redeeming us to God once for allBy His blood the new covenant came into effect.  


According to the first covenant, the tabernacle was made according to instructions given by God to Moses.  A veil separated the sanctuary from the tabernacle called the Holiest of all.  Every year the high priest went into the second tabernacle to make atonement for sins with blood of animals ...

Hewbrews 9:1 Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. 2 For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. 3 And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; 4 Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; 5 And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. 6 Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. 7 But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: 8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: 9 Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; 10 Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.

Jesus sacrificed Himself, atoning for our sins with His own blood. By His death, Jesus put into effect the new covenant, and has obtained eternal redemption for us with His own blood ... 

Hebrews 9:11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; 12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

Yearly sacrifices in the tabernacle made on this earth are no longer necessary, for Jesus has paid for our sins, once for all ...

Hebrews 9:24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; 26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

Hebrews 10:11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: 12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, 16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. 18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. 

How wonderful that the blood of Jesus has completely paid for our sins.  No other sacrifice is needed.  

Comments by Joan Boney:  When the veil of the temple was rent, it signified the way had been made for us to be able to go directly to God through the sacrifice of Jesus.

Mixing the WORD with faith

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

Heb. 4 ... Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. 2For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.   3For we which have believed do enter into rest,

Some hear the word or read the word but fail to mix the word with faith.  Therefore they continue to fret over and over.  Those who hear the word and mix that word with faith rest in that word rather than fret.

We enter in by believing the word and resting in the word spoken as pertains to issues of this present life.

Here is one example:  A few days ago, someone shared the following scripture:  1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 ... Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

I read this and at the end of this scripture I said, "That is right."  God is faithful.  He called me to His kingdom.  He will give me what I need and preserve me and draw me back from evil.  


I entered in by believing the word spoken, by thinking on that word and what it means.  I know I can rest in the faithfulness of God concerning my soul.  I know I have the Holy Spirit in me and I know HE keeps me continually by His Spirit.
.....
A few days ago, I was going into Wall-mart and I met a woman I know but haven't seen for several months.  She and her husband have moved to a very expensive retirement home.  As we chatted, she saw her opportunity.  She began telling me of her house and asked me to pray for her house to sell.  I questioned, "Your house has not sold?"  She confirmed that.  They have been in that retirement home for at least 6 months or more.  This is a woman who was Baptist and then began to follow the faith movement.  She is obviously very concerned and by asking me to pray she shows she does not have real faith about the matter at hand.  She is not at rest. 

Before we can have faith, we must have a word from God on the issue at hand.  It is apparent this woman did not have such before moving.  She is swimming in a sea of concern and reaching out for others in desperation as she asks for prayer in the matter.

When we have a word from God showing us to do something, then we have opportunity to believe that word as we do the act, and we enter into rest, believing that word given us by the Spirit of God before we did the act.  When that is the case we enter into HIS rest, believing the word we have been given.

If we have no word from the Spirit of God on the matter, then we just refrain ourselves from doing anything until we have a word in which to trust.

This is the basis for faith.  We must have the Word first, then believe, then act.  Then we are trusting in God, knowing that which we did was authored by God and not by ourselves.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Hebrews 9:27-28 ... And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

Isaiah 13:9-10, 13 ... Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it. 10 For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine. ... 13 Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, in the wrath of the Lord of hosts, and in the day of his fierce anger.

Romans 8:28-30 ... 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.

Psalm 31:15 ... My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.

Only that built on the word of God will stand

Pam Padgett ... teacher

God told Ezekiel to prophesy against prophets who spoke of their own selves saying the message was from God, but it was not from God ...

Ezekiel 13:1 And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, 2 Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel that prophesy, and say thou unto them that prophesy out of their own hearts, Hear ye the word of the Lord; 3 Thus saith the Lord God; Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing! ..... 6 They have seen vanity and lying divination, saying, The Lord saith: and the Lord hath not sent them: and they have made others to hope that they would confirm the word. 7 Have ye not seen a vain vision, and have ye not spoken a lying divination, whereas ye say, The Lord saith it; albeit I have not spoken? 8 Therefore thus saith the Lord God; Because ye have spoken vanity, and seen lies, therefore, behold, I am against you, saith the Lord God.

Their works were shown to be as a wall, filled in with untempered mortar, and which God would destroy ....

Ezekiel 13:10 Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up a wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered morter: 11 Say unto them which daub it with untempered morter, that it shall fall: there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it. 12 Lo, when the wall is fallen, shall it not be said unto you, Where is the daubing wherewith ye have daubed it? 13 Therefore thus saith the Lord God; I will even rend it with a stormy wind in my fury; and there shall be an overflowing shower in mine anger, and great hailstones in my fury to consume it. 14 So will I break down the wall that ye have daubed with untempered morter, and bring it down to the ground, so that the foundation thereof shall be discovered, and it shall fall, and ye shall be consumed in the midst thereof: and ye shall know that I am the Lord. 15 Thus will I accomplish my wrath upon the wall, and upon them that have daubed it with untempered morter, and will say unto you, The wall is no more, neither they that daubed it; 16 To wit, the prophets of Israel which prophesy concerning Jerusalem, and which see visions of peace for her, and there is no peace, saith the Lord God. 

Speaking of their own hearts instead of by a word received from God was as building a wall using mortar that was not tempered, unsuitable and not firm.  The wall would be destroyed by God. 

Paul warned us to take heed in how we build, to take heed in what we base that which we say and do.  The foundation we build on is to be Jesus Christ, the Word of God, not our own ideas or desires.  We build on truth from God and doing according to the word of God brought to us by the Holy Spirit ...

1 Corinthians 3:10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.   


I was reminded of a man named Johnny who once told me how much he loved and wanted to marry a woman who was divorced.  Johnny  asked me if they would commit adultery by marrying.  As he spoke about how much he loved this woman and wanted to marry her, I wanted to tell him that surely this would be ok.  But Jesus taught that if a divorced woman marries, she commits adultery and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery (Matthew 5:32).  This is what I spoke to Johnny.  The word of God is the foundation we must build on.

Depressed? Think on these things

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

Paul says:  Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  9Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. Phil. 4

God has made a great way of escape for us in these instructions if we will remember to do them when we have problems.

First, we pray.  Talking to God about all concerns.  Letting requests be made known to God.

We go through so much needless worry and anxiety because we fail to do this.  So when we can remember to talk to God about the problem, we save ourselves needless concern.

Then after we pray, we are told to think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely ...

Those things God does are true, honest, just, pure, lovely ...

When I think of how God caused me to be born again, and how God took me into heaven twice and merged me into the body of Jesus making me one with the WORD ... and how God put me on radio by giving me a dream, even showing me the call letters of the exact radio station ... and how years later God showed me in a dream to go on Internet and do these exhortations ... I am greatly lifted up.

And then I think of how God took the chosen out of Egypt when the time was fulfilled ... and how God did all those miracles in the sight of Pharaoh ... and how God used the Red Sea to rid the chosen from enemies ... and how, in the wilderness, God created food where there was no food and water where there was no water ...

Sadness is turned into rejoicing when I think of these things!

So thinking on the works of God after committing your problem to God in prayer is a great way of escape for the chosen of God as we live in this present earth.

God has made a way of escape for us.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Hebrews 12:1-3 ... Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

Psalm 31:24 ... Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.

Watch and pray

Pam Padgett ... teacher

Jesus told His disciples many things about the end of this world and His return, including that there will be terrible afflictions ...

Mark 13:19 For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be. 20 And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.

False prophets will come forth and try to lead even the elect away from truth ...

Mark 13:21 And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not:22 For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. 23 But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.

After that tribulation, the sun and moon will not give light and the stars will fall from heaven ...

Mark 13:24 But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, 25 And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.

Then Jesus will return and His angels will gather together the elect ...

Mark 13:26 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.

Although we know that these things will happen, only the Father knows when ...

Mark 13:28 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near :29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors. 30 Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. 31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. 32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

Jesus told us to watch and pray, that as a porter would remain alert and doing according to the will of his master regardless of when the master returned, we should be ready whenever Jesus returns ...

Mark 13:33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. 34 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: 36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

When we watch, we remain awake and prepared, even over a long period of time.  Not becoming slothful, but continually keeping ourselves by the Holy Spirit's guidance and turning to God in all our ways, that we might be found to be faithful servants, holy and pleasing to God. 


2 Peter 3:11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking 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? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

Sharing with neighbor about God

Renee Bonfield - evangelist 

We have a married couple living directly above us. The wife, Denali is an emergency doctor at the hospital in our neighborhood. She was born in Sri Lanka. Her husband Sebastian was born just outside of Paris. Last evening they came to visit with us. We talked for a while and Wheeler told them that his father and other family members were born in Russia and that my people came from Poland. Wheeler and Sebastian went into the next room to talk about classical music.

I was in the living room speaking to Denali. She asked me if my parents spoke Polish. I said no. My mother was born in Boston, and my father was born in Poland. I told her that when my parents didn't want my sister or me to understand what they were saying, they spoke in Yiddish. She then asked if I practice Judaism. I said no, and told her that I had a born again experience with God. She told me that she is Catholic. Then I began to tell her all the wonderful things that God has done for me. How He healed my cancer, and how I was taken to heaven twice. She couldn't get over all the miracles and was so amazed. I told her that she didn't need to go to church to talk to God, that she could talk to Him where ever she was, and that if she chose to do so, she should read the Bible. I also explained that the Bible says that no man is to be called father except our heavenly Father, and that no man is to be called Rabbi. Because Jesus is our Rabbi.

What a wonderful evening we had.

Standing on scripture: By the Spirit or the mind?

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

When the Spirit of God gives you a scripture and you stand on that scripture the gates of hell will not prevail against that direction.

But when you want to do something or want something and you take the Bible and try to find a scripture to stand on to get what you want, you are in very great danger of failure and if you don't get what you want this way you also are in danger of loss of faith.  This is not the correct way to stand on scripture.

The first thing we do when we have a "need" is to turn to God in prayer, laying everything out before God concerning that issue.

The second thing we do is wait on God.

Example:  The wrong way ... When I was born again in 1975,  I wanted to marry.  I prayed to find husband.  Our prayer group prayed for me to find husband.  I found scripture to "claim" right to husband.  I stood on scripture, quoting it daily.  There was just one problem.  It was not the will of God for me to marry.  Not everyone marries.  Paul said this in I Cor 7 when he explains some are spared trouble in the flesh.

One of the things Jesus taught His disciples to pray is:  "Thy will be done"  Mt. 6:10

Jesus didn't want to go to cross.  Three times HE prayed.  In the end, Jesus said:  Nevertheless, not my will but Thy will be done.

The correct way to stand on the word of God:     The Holy Spirit calls to your mind a scripture or a dream and that is the will of God in the matter at hand.  You can hang your faith on what the Holy Spirit says.

It is not that you quote that scripture daily to make it come to pass.  Rather that which is given by the Holy Spirit shows you the will of God and strengthens you when faith battles arise in your mind. 

We do not have to go out and try to find messages to speak ...When it is of the Spirit of God, we first "partake" of the message and then we share it.

We do not have a list of good works to do ... When the work is of God, the Spirit of God authors the work.  There is a very big difference between trying to follow a scripture without being led by the Spirit of God and doing something because it is authored by the Spirit of God.

In the end, the only work that will stand is the work authored by the Spirit of God at that specific moment in time.

Many people try to set up churches, and orphanages, and try to write books without these works being authored by the Spirit of God.  They do these things by their own flesh.  And they try to get others to pay for their works.  Countless numbers are doing this today.

Jesus said:  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23And then will I profess unto them,  I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Mt. 7

You can try to follow a scripture and do all manner of good works set forth in a scripture and still not be doing a work of God.  Before you set about to do a work, you must be led by the Spirit of God to do that work.  You can't be led by your own flesh thinking it is your "Christian duty" to do this thing.  You must be led by the Spirit of God in all things.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

1 Corinthians 8:1 ... Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.

Ruth 1:8, 14-16 ...
And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the Lord deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. .... 14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. 15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. 16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 

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

Wisdom leads in ways of contentment

Pam Padgett ... teacher

Proverbs 17:24 Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.

Reading this reminded me of how wisdom from God leads us to deal with those things that are before us, soberly tending to our own business, being content with what God provides for us, and going in the way He has set before us. 

1 Thessalonians 4:11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; 12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.

1 Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

But a fool is never content and satisfied, looking even to the ends of the earth,
always desiring something more or new  ....

Proverbs 27:20 Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

Exhortations help pull us back on road

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

Every morning, I read the messages published on our Internet cite.  There are scriptures posted and there are written exhortations.

A few days ago, I had felt myself slipping.  For several days, I had felt more and more lethargic.  I thought it to be boredom.

Then I read an exhortation posted by Pam and I saw my problem was "lack of faith" in God.  And immediately I was raised up by God.

God uses exhortations to help us.

Heb. 3 ... Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;




Heb. 10 ... but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.


As we draw nearer to the return of Jesus, it is even more important that we exhort one another in the ways of God.

Iniquity will abound more and more before Jesus returns.  Mt. 24 & II Tim. 3

Sin hardens us.  And the sin around us can have a way of hardening us.  As we watch TV and such we see this abounding sin.

These exhortations we do daily have a power of God to help us in the midst of the iniquity.  We assemble together as the church through these though we are not physically together in same room.  We are together spiritually, in the Spirit of God.

This is one of the provisions God has for helping us in the midst of the iniquity of the world today.  And there is great power of God here by HIS Spirit.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Hebrews 3:12-15 ... Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. 14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; 15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

Psalm 34:19 ... Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

James 1:17-21 ... Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

Turning from pride and being humble before God

Pam Padgett ... teacher

Proverbs 13:10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

A few years ago while still working this verse stood out to me.   I was reminded of many times I had entered into contention, entering into strife and conflict while trying to get someone else to do what I thought needed to be done in a work project, or to convince others that my ideas were the best way to go.  Much trouble comes when we think so highly of our own ideas and ways and expect others to think as highly of them as we do. 

After this verse stood out to me and considering what we're told in it, I was often reminded of this when starting to strive with someone and was helped to step back and turn to God, asking Him how to handle whatever the issue was, asking God for wisdom. 

It was hard on my flesh to step back and humble myself before God rather than letting my pride have free reign.   But without exception, in the end I was so grateful to God for helping me do so.  Turning to God and being led by the Holy Spirit ... well advised in wisdom from God ... was much more peaceful and profitable.  Often what had seemed so important, was shown to be not important at all.  When there was something that needed to be dealt with, I could move forward, not in my own ideas, but in wisdom from God. 

We bring much trouble to ourselves and others when we walk in pride.  But when we humble ourselves before God, He is able to leads us in the ways of peace and life.  


Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. 

God hangs the earth upon nothing

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

Job said:  He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing. Job 26:7

I thought about God creating the heaven and the earth ... and I thought of these words of Job, a prophet ... God hung the earth upon nothing.

The earth is just out there suspended in space, fixed in place by the Word of God.

The heavens are the same.  Kept fixed in space by the word of God.  But the time will come that the same word of God will shake heavens and earth ...

II Peter 3 ... Knowing 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.


Everything is done by the Word of God by the Spirit of God.  Everything is held in place by the Word of God.  Everything will move by the Word of God.

Man thinks he does so much.  But all the works will be destroyed.  But the word of God endures forever.

And if any work we do is of God, it is authored by God through HIS Spirit and all else is vanity.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Matthew 11:28-30 ... Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart:and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Psalm 27:1 ... The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Not separated from the love of God

Pam Padgett ... teacher

As the church grew, king Herod set out to vex members of the church, even having James killed.  Seeing that this pleased the Jews, Peter was imprisoned so he could be brought before the people after Easter  ...

Acts 12:1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. 2 And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) 4 And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. 5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Peter was being well guarded and secured in the prison.  Yet, when God chose to deliver Peter from the prison, He sent an angel to release Peter and lead him out of the prison and into the city ...

Acts 12:6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains:and the keepers before the door kept the prison. 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. 8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. 9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. 10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord:and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. 11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

While thinking about the amazing way Peter was delivered from the prison, I also thought of James and that it was not the will of God to deliver him from Herod.  I found myself rejoicing in God's will being done in both Peter's and James' lives.  And I was reminded that Paul told us that neither life nor death is able to separate those who have been called by God from the love of God ....

Romans 8:28 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.


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.

 

Whether we live on this earth or die, and in whatever we face as we live on this earth, there is cause for rejoicing because we belong to God and are loved by Him. 

Confusion caused by envy and strife

Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet

The apostle James said:  For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. James 3:16

Envy means:  a feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or luck

Strife means:  angry or bitter disagreement over fundamental issues; conflict

It is possible to disagree without having angry or bitter conflict.  I have acquaintance who is devout Catholic, attending church weekly.  I strongly disagree with Catholic Church doctrines.  I once gave her the scripture in Mt. 24 which says "call no man father."  She thanked me for the message but ignored the message and continues doing the Catholic Church doctrines.  Even though we disagree, we go to dinner with each other from time to time.  But we do not argue about doctrine.  I'm no longer trying to persuade her.  I consider she made her choice.  I do not consider we are yoked together.  I am free by scripture to go to dinner with unbeliever so long as the food is not present in worship to an idol.  But if going to dinner with her caused bitter disagreement and trouble, then I would not continue to go to dinner with her.

James 3 ... But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.

So as we read this, we examine ourselves.  If we have envy or strife, we can repent and ask God to forgive us and free ourselves through the power of God.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Scripture: Shared by body of Christ

Isaiah 2:19-21 ... And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth. 20 In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; 21 To go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.

Titus 2:11-15 ... For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

Proverbs 4:23 ... Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Events fit perfectly in purpose of God

Pam Padgett ... teacher

While reading in Acts 10, I was struck by how perfectly God fit together events to bring about HIS purposes. 
 

In a vision an angel of God told Cornelius, a centurion in Caesarea, to send for Peter in Joppa and that Peter would tell him that he should do.  Cornelius told two of his servants and a devout soldier what the angel had told him and sent them to Joppa to call for Peter ...

Acts 10:1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 8 And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.

As those Cornelius sent neared Joppa, Peter was given a vision in which he saw common and unclean animals and birds and heard a voice telling him to kill and eat them.  When he didn't want to do this, the voice said to not call common what God has cleansed.  As Peter was wondering what this vision meant, the men sent from Cornelius stood at the gate of the house where Peter was staying ...

Acts 10:9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. 14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 15 And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. 16 This was done thrice:and the vessel was received up again into heaven. 17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.

The Spirit spoke to Peter telling him about the three men, telling Peter to go with them and assuring him that they had been sent by God ...

Acts 10:19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

Peter and some of the brethren in Joppa went to Cornelius in Caesarea.  While waiting for Peter to come, Cornelius was able to gather together relatives and friends, giving them an opportunity to hear the message from God Peter would speak ...  

Acts 10:23 Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. Acts 10:24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.

Peter spoke to those gathered together about Jesus ...

Acts 10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ:(he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

As Peter spoke, the Holy Ghost fell on all those that heard, being witnessed by the Jews who had come with Peter from Joppa. 
Although it was not considered lawful for the Jews to keep company with those who were not Jews, God confirmed His purpose to Peter by the vision, what the Spirit spoke to him in Joppa, and seeing that the Holy Ghost was given to the Gentiles in Caesarea.  And those who had received the Holy Ghost were baptized ...

Acts 10:44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

It causes us to marvel in God to consider this example of God working all of these things together so perfectly to bring about His purpose ... from the angel appearing and instructing Cornelius to send for Peter, to the vision Peter was given just as the men sent by Cornelius were arriving to summon him in Joppa, to Cornelius having opportunity to gather together relatives and friends who were to believe the gospel.  


This also reminds us of times in our own lives when we have been led by the Holy Spirit and have seen that the way was prepared before us, that the will of God would be accomplished. 

Romans 8:28 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.