2 Timothy 3:12-15 ... Yea, and all that
will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 13 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.
1 John 4:13 ... Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
John 8:12 ... Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light
of the world:he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall
have the light of life.
(Providing daily encouragement for the body of Christ by the Spirit of God to help the church in the end times.)
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Trusting God to direct our paths
Pam Padgett ... teacher
The veterinarian clinic I have taken my animals to for several years recently changed owners. The limited communication I've had with the new owner has troubled me, and I found the level of care provided under the new owner was lower than before, and the prices being charged were much higher. Although I felt I needed to look for another vet, it seemed somewhat overwhelming to know which one to choose.
But then I was reminded by the Holy Spirit of the promise we have that if we turn to God in whatever we're facing, HE will direct our paths ...
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.
I sat down and started talking with God about needing a vet for my pets who are older and have various physical problems and asked God to show me how to sort through the various vets in this area. As I waited to know what to do next, I was reminded of two other times when I've needed to make a change of some kind but didn't know which direction to go, and God has gotten through to me, showing me the way to go.
A few days later a thought came, which I believe was from the Holy Spirit, to talk with God about each of the vets in this area. As I did this one by one, things were brought to my mind that helped me sort through the vets. I called to talk with two of the vets I hadn't met before, asking God to make clear to me anything I needed to know. As one of these vets said various things that made me know he would not be the best choice for me, I smiled and thanked God for making this so clear.
The vet I chose comes to the home of the animals. He and his assistant came to my home earlier this week to care for two of my pets. They seem very competent and dealt gently with my animals.
This seems like such a small matter, but it was a big concern to me. I've been very grateful to God for helping me in this, and have been reminded of
Psalm 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
The veterinarian clinic I have taken my animals to for several years recently changed owners. The limited communication I've had with the new owner has troubled me, and I found the level of care provided under the new owner was lower than before, and the prices being charged were much higher. Although I felt I needed to look for another vet, it seemed somewhat overwhelming to know which one to choose.
But then I was reminded by the Holy Spirit of the promise we have that if we turn to God in whatever we're facing, HE will direct our paths ...
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.
I sat down and started talking with God about needing a vet for my pets who are older and have various physical problems and asked God to show me how to sort through the various vets in this area. As I waited to know what to do next, I was reminded of two other times when I've needed to make a change of some kind but didn't know which direction to go, and God has gotten through to me, showing me the way to go.
A few days later a thought came, which I believe was from the Holy Spirit, to talk with God about each of the vets in this area. As I did this one by one, things were brought to my mind that helped me sort through the vets. I called to talk with two of the vets I hadn't met before, asking God to make clear to me anything I needed to know. As one of these vets said various things that made me know he would not be the best choice for me, I smiled and thanked God for making this so clear.
The vet I chose comes to the home of the animals. He and his assistant came to my home earlier this week to care for two of my pets. They seem very competent and dealt gently with my animals.
This seems like such a small matter, but it was a big concern to me. I've been very grateful to God for helping me in this, and have been reminded of
Psalm 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
Meteor hits Russia
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Yesterday a small meteor hit Russia without warning ... It was a shock to all.
This is the type of event only God could cause. This is the type of sign in the sky we look for.
Many people in Russia who experienced this thought it was the end of the world.
It was not end of world but it could be significant.
We, who look for return of Jesus, know the events prior to return of Jesus will be the signs in the sky which no man can cause and no man can control.
I'm certainly not saying this is it ... but I am saying this is the type of event we can expect to see before the return of Jesus, except in larger scale.
Scriptures:
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.
Mk. 13 ... But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, 25And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. 26And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27And 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.
Lk. 21 ... And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
II Peter 3 ... 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.
One thing, when these sky events happen, we might be shocked or even frightened, but we will know what is going on when that sky turns black unexpectedly in the middle of the day.
And something like the Russia event shows us how it can happen any time without the scientists and newscasters warning anyone!
God will shake the heaven and the earth.
Isaiah 13:13 ... 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.
Heb. 12 ... Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. 27And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 29For our God is a consuming fire.
In a dream I had several years ago, the earth slipped on its axis ... people were terrified. The scientists, religious leaders, and governments of men were meeting together to see what could be done. A TV newscaster was giving news and he was so terrified he couldn't continue the broadcast.
The time will come when God will shake both the heavens and the earth. "The earth shall remove out of her place" ...
At this point, the solar system is being held in place by the same WORD of God that will eventually bring the end. For the end will not be caused by power of men to explode weapons. The end will come by the word of God which causes the shaking of both the heavens and the earth. And we who are of God will know that so we will know what is happening.
Yesterday a small meteor hit Russia without warning ... It was a shock to all.
This is the type of event only God could cause. This is the type of sign in the sky we look for.
Many people in Russia who experienced this thought it was the end of the world.
It was not end of world but it could be significant.
We, who look for return of Jesus, know the events prior to return of Jesus will be the signs in the sky which no man can cause and no man can control.
I'm certainly not saying this is it ... but I am saying this is the type of event we can expect to see before the return of Jesus, except in larger scale.
Scriptures:
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.
Mk. 13 ... But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, 25And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. 26And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27And 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.
Lk. 21 ... And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. 27And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
II Peter 3 ... 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.
One thing, when these sky events happen, we might be shocked or even frightened, but we will know what is going on when that sky turns black unexpectedly in the middle of the day.
And something like the Russia event shows us how it can happen any time without the scientists and newscasters warning anyone!
God will shake the heaven and the earth.
Isaiah 13:13 ... 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.
Heb. 12 ... Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. 27And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 29For our God is a consuming fire.
In a dream I had several years ago, the earth slipped on its axis ... people were terrified. The scientists, religious leaders, and governments of men were meeting together to see what could be done. A TV newscaster was giving news and he was so terrified he couldn't continue the broadcast.
The time will come when God will shake both the heavens and the earth. "The earth shall remove out of her place" ...
At this point, the solar system is being held in place by the same WORD of God that will eventually bring the end. For the end will not be caused by power of men to explode weapons. The end will come by the word of God which causes the shaking of both the heavens and the earth. And we who are of God will know that so we will know what is happening.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
2 Timothy 2:24-25 ... And the servant of
the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach,
patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God
peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the
truth;
John 5:30 ... I can of mine own self do nothing:as I hear, I judge:and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
Colossians 3:12-14 ... Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any:even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
John 5:30 ... I can of mine own self do nothing:as I hear, I judge:and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
Colossians 3:12-14 ... Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any:even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Help in time of need
Pam Padgett ... teacher
While reading in Mark 6, the compassion Jesus showed and understanding of the needs we have as we live on this earth stood out to me.
Jesus sent the twelve to preach, cast out devils, and heal the sick. When they returned and told Jesus what they had done and taught, Jesus saw to it that they rested, away from the many who were coming and going ...
Mark 6:7 And he (Jesus) called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; ... 12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. 13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. ...30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. 31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. 32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately.
When Jesus saw the many people who had run out of the cities to come to Him, He was moved with compassion toward them and taught them many things ...
Mark 6:33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him. 34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd:and he began to teach them many things.
When the people who had come to hear Him had nothing to eat, Jesus fed them all until they were filled ...
Mark 6:35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed:36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread:for they have nothing to eat. 37 He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? 38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. 39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. 40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. 41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. 42 And they did all eat, and were filled. 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. 44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.
When Jesus' disciples were toiling in rowing the ship they were in because of the winds, Jesus was walking on the sea. They saw Jesus and were afraid. Immediately, Jesus spoke to them, telling them to be of good cheer and not be afraid, identifying Himself to them. In addition to quieting their fears, Jesus also calmed the winds ...
Mark 6:45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. 46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. 47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. 48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them:and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: 50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer:it is I; be not afraid. 51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased:and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.
Jesus came to earth as a man, dealing with the flesh and being tempted just as we are, but didn't sin. Now Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father. We can turn to Him and receive mercy and help in whatever we face ...
Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
While reading in Mark 6, the compassion Jesus showed and understanding of the needs we have as we live on this earth stood out to me.
Jesus sent the twelve to preach, cast out devils, and heal the sick. When they returned and told Jesus what they had done and taught, Jesus saw to it that they rested, away from the many who were coming and going ...
Mark 6:7 And he (Jesus) called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; ... 12 And they went out, and preached that men should repent. 13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. ...30 And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. 31 And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. 32 And they departed into a desert place by ship privately.
When Jesus saw the many people who had run out of the cities to come to Him, He was moved with compassion toward them and taught them many things ...
Mark 6:33 And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and came together unto him. 34 And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd:and he began to teach them many things.
When the people who had come to hear Him had nothing to eat, Jesus fed them all until they were filled ...
Mark 6:35 And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed:36 Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread:for they have nothing to eat. 37 He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? 38 He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. 39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. 40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. 41 And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. 42 And they did all eat, and were filled. 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. 44 And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men.
When Jesus' disciples were toiling in rowing the ship they were in because of the winds, Jesus was walking on the sea. They saw Jesus and were afraid. Immediately, Jesus spoke to them, telling them to be of good cheer and not be afraid, identifying Himself to them. In addition to quieting their fears, Jesus also calmed the winds ...
Mark 6:45 And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. 46 And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. 47 And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. 48 And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them:and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. 49 But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: 50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer:it is I; be not afraid. 51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased:and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.
Jesus came to earth as a man, dealing with the flesh and being tempted just as we are, but didn't sin. Now Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father. We can turn to Him and receive mercy and help in whatever we face ...
Hebrews 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Need for patience in time of stress
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Be patient: God will answer those who belong to HIM.
James 5 ... Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 8Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 9Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. 10Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 11Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.
There are times situations happen and cause me to be in great stress, often because of what other people do and because of my reaction concerning what I see in those people. Often it looks as if I have sinned in the matter and I'm never sure until the Holy Spirit reveals to me God's thinking on the issue. And often I have to wait, sometimes for several days, before something is revealed by Holy Spirit. And as I wait, I am often sad and grieved over the matter. Then the Holy Spirit brings to my mind something and everything is settled and I no longer grieve but rejoice because I know I have heard God's judgment on that issue and that is all that matters to me.
Sometimes patience is required but God always answers me and shows me HIS thinking by HIS Spirit.
Be patient: God will answer those who belong to HIM.
James 5 ... Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 8Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 9Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. 10Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 11Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.
There are times situations happen and cause me to be in great stress, often because of what other people do and because of my reaction concerning what I see in those people. Often it looks as if I have sinned in the matter and I'm never sure until the Holy Spirit reveals to me God's thinking on the issue. And often I have to wait, sometimes for several days, before something is revealed by Holy Spirit. And as I wait, I am often sad and grieved over the matter. Then the Holy Spirit brings to my mind something and everything is settled and I no longer grieve but rejoice because I know I have heard God's judgment on that issue and that is all that matters to me.
Sometimes patience is required but God always answers me and shows me HIS thinking by HIS Spirit.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
2 Timothy 3:16-17 ... 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.
Mark 10:13-15 ... 13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them:and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not:for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
Mark 10:13-15 ... 13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them:and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not:for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
Crying out to God with concerns
Pam Padgett ... teacher
God instructed Ezekiel in what to do to show the people the things that would come upon them because of their iniquities. One of the things Ezekiel was to do was to make barley cakes and bake them with dung from man, showing that the children of Israel would eat defiled bread among the Gentiles ...
Ezekiel 4:9 Take thou also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentiles, and millet, and fitches, and put them in one vessel, and make thee bread thereof, according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon thy side, three hundred and ninety days shalt thou eat thereof. 10 And thy meat which thou shalt eat shall be by weight, twenty shekels a day:from time to time shalt thou eat it. 11 Thou shalt drink also water by measure, the sixth part of an hin:from time to time shalt thou drink. 12 And thou shalt eat it as barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung that cometh out of man, in their sight. 13 And the Lord said, Even thus shall the children of Israel eat their defiled bread among the Gentiles, whither I will drive them.
When Ezekiel heard that he was to bake the cakes with dung from man, he cried out to God because he had never polluted himself by such things before. God heard his cry, and gave him cow's dung to use in baking the bread ...
Ezekiel 4:14 Then said I, Ah Lord God! behold, my soul hath not been polluted: for from my youth up even till now have I not eaten of that which dieth of itself, or is torn in pieces; neither came there abominable flesh into my mouth. 15 Then he said unto me, Lo, I have given thee cow's dung for man's dung, and thou shalt prepare thy bread therewith.
As I read this account of Ezekiel crying out to God, not wanting to pollute himself, I was reminded of Peter crying out to God when he saw all manner of common and unclean animals and was told to kill and eat of them.
An angel had been sent to Cornelius, a centurion in Caesarea, and told him to send men to bring Peter from Joppa. As the men Cornelius sent were nearing Joppa, Peter was given a vision ...
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.
Acts 10:13 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. 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.
When Peter came to Cornelius, Peter told him that although it was unlawful for a Jew to keep company with those of other nations, God had shewed him to call no man common or unclean ...
Acts 10:27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. 28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.
As Peter taught those gathered together about Jesus, the Holy Ghost fell on them, and they 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.
Both Ezekiel and Peter were concerned about defiling themselves in the sight of God and cried out to God, and God answered them. For Ezekiel, he was given cows dung for baking instead of human dung. For Peter, God used the vision to show Peter to go and preach the gospel to the Gentiles, something Peter otherwise would not have considered doing since the Jews were not to keep company with those of other nations.
As they cried out to God, God helped them move forward according to HIS will. They didn't try to work out their concerns by their own minds; they turned to God, trusting God to help them do what was right in HIS sight.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
God instructed Ezekiel in what to do to show the people the things that would come upon them because of their iniquities. One of the things Ezekiel was to do was to make barley cakes and bake them with dung from man, showing that the children of Israel would eat defiled bread among the Gentiles ...
Ezekiel 4:9 Take thou also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentiles, and millet, and fitches, and put them in one vessel, and make thee bread thereof, according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon thy side, three hundred and ninety days shalt thou eat thereof. 10 And thy meat which thou shalt eat shall be by weight, twenty shekels a day:from time to time shalt thou eat it. 11 Thou shalt drink also water by measure, the sixth part of an hin:from time to time shalt thou drink. 12 And thou shalt eat it as barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung that cometh out of man, in their sight. 13 And the Lord said, Even thus shall the children of Israel eat their defiled bread among the Gentiles, whither I will drive them.
When Ezekiel heard that he was to bake the cakes with dung from man, he cried out to God because he had never polluted himself by such things before. God heard his cry, and gave him cow's dung to use in baking the bread ...
Ezekiel 4:14 Then said I, Ah Lord God! behold, my soul hath not been polluted: for from my youth up even till now have I not eaten of that which dieth of itself, or is torn in pieces; neither came there abominable flesh into my mouth. 15 Then he said unto me, Lo, I have given thee cow's dung for man's dung, and thou shalt prepare thy bread therewith.
As I read this account of Ezekiel crying out to God, not wanting to pollute himself, I was reminded of Peter crying out to God when he saw all manner of common and unclean animals and was told to kill and eat of them.
An angel had been sent to Cornelius, a centurion in Caesarea, and told him to send men to bring Peter from Joppa. As the men Cornelius sent were nearing Joppa, Peter was given a vision ...
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.
Acts 10:13 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. 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.
When Peter came to Cornelius, Peter told him that although it was unlawful for a Jew to keep company with those of other nations, God had shewed him to call no man common or unclean ...
Acts 10:27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. 28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.
As Peter taught those gathered together about Jesus, the Holy Ghost fell on them, and they 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.
Both Ezekiel and Peter were concerned about defiling themselves in the sight of God and cried out to God, and God answered them. For Ezekiel, he was given cows dung for baking instead of human dung. For Peter, God used the vision to show Peter to go and preach the gospel to the Gentiles, something Peter otherwise would not have considered doing since the Jews were not to keep company with those of other nations.
As they cried out to God, God helped them move forward according to HIS will. They didn't try to work out their concerns by their own minds; they turned to God, trusting God to help them do what was right in HIS sight.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
When people strike out against us
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Recently, at grocery store, a young woman struck out against me. I felt badly about the encounter and I continued to call out to God and then the Holy Spirit said to me a scripture: "With the froward I will show myself froward."
This helped me to understand what had happened.
When a person is of a froward heart and we speak a grain of truth to that person, that person will see us as the one who is froward. And it is not unusual for that person to strike out accusing us of the very thing that person is.
Psa. 18 ... With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself froward. 27For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.
II Cor. 2 ... 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. 15For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life.
Several years ago, I was playing golf with 2 women who called themselves Christians. One woman began accusing me of "judging", though she was doing this in subtil way. Finally the Holy Spirit spoke the following through me: "If you're judging someone is judging, aren't you judging?" She gasped, like air being let out of a balloon.
Recently, at grocery store, a young woman struck out against me. I felt badly about the encounter and I continued to call out to God and then the Holy Spirit said to me a scripture: "With the froward I will show myself froward."
This helped me to understand what had happened.
When a person is of a froward heart and we speak a grain of truth to that person, that person will see us as the one who is froward. And it is not unusual for that person to strike out accusing us of the very thing that person is.
Psa. 18 ... With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself froward. 27For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.
II Cor. 2 ... 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. 15For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life.
Several years ago, I was playing golf with 2 women who called themselves Christians. One woman began accusing me of "judging", though she was doing this in subtil way. Finally the Holy Spirit spoke the following through me: "If you're judging someone is judging, aren't you judging?" She gasped, like air being let out of a balloon.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
2 Timothy 1:7 ... For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Psalm 20:7 ... Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.
Matthew 7:7-12 ... Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? 12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them:for this is the law and the prophets.
1 Peter 4:10-11 ... As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth:that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Psalm 20:7 ... Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.
Matthew 7:7-12 ... Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? 12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them:for this is the law and the prophets.
1 Peter 4:10-11 ... As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth:that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Seeking to please and serve God not man
Pam Padgett ... teacher
Recently I've noticed several times people being interviewed on television news-type shows say that nothing is more important than family, as they tell what they have done to support various relatives, sometimes even in wrong-doing. Its as though "family" is an idol being worshiped. Other people shown on the shows nod, apparently in agreement.
But I find myself shuddering and re-establishing myself that serving God (not man) is the most important thing, and am often reminded that Jesus told us that the first and great commandment is to love God with all of our heart, soul, and mind ...
Matthew 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment.
And I've also been reminded that Paul taught us the following about seeking to please men ...
Galatians 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
For those of us who have been called by God and are led by the Holy Spirit, we seek to serve God above all. When a matter comes up or we are concerned about someone, we can turn to God and ask for wisdom in what to do. When we believe we are shown the way God would have us go, we go in that way ... serving God.
Matthew 6:24 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.
Recently I've noticed several times people being interviewed on television news-type shows say that nothing is more important than family, as they tell what they have done to support various relatives, sometimes even in wrong-doing. Its as though "family" is an idol being worshiped. Other people shown on the shows nod, apparently in agreement.
But I find myself shuddering and re-establishing myself that serving God (not man) is the most important thing, and am often reminded that Jesus told us that the first and great commandment is to love God with all of our heart, soul, and mind ...
Matthew 22:37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment.
And I've also been reminded that Paul taught us the following about seeking to please men ...
Galatians 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
For those of us who have been called by God and are led by the Holy Spirit, we seek to serve God above all. When a matter comes up or we are concerned about someone, we can turn to God and ask for wisdom in what to do. When we believe we are shown the way God would have us go, we go in that way ... serving God.
Matthew 6:24 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.
When we are removed from this earth
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
People focus on so many things that will be instantly forgotten at the return of Jesus. And God tells the elect of the New Covenant the following ... 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; 17And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Heb. 10
Concerning heaven, God said ...For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. Isaiah 65:17
It may be difficult to grasp this concept of what it will be like but here is illustration that we should be able to relate to: When we saw the World Trade Center twin towers collapse, most of us focused on that scene and nothing else. We weren't thinking of anything but that scene at the exact moment of the collapse.
And so will it be at return of Jesus. All we will see and be aware of is Jesus. We won't be thinking anymore of our families or anything else.
And at that time, I will no longer have to try to get anyone to turn to God!
It will all be different and we will be different, changed to another "body", to another form.
And it will happen suddenly. If you blink your eyes it will be that fast!
I Cor. 15
But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? 36Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
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.
The dead shall rise and those who are still alive and belong to God will be changed in a twinkling of an eye and then they shall arise to meet Jesus and the dead who are risen in the air.
I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (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. 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.
It will all be done in a twinkling of an eye ... blink ... it is that fast! And we will not think of family, friends, possessions. We will only think of Jesus at that time. All former things will vanish instantly and we will not remember them again. Isaiah 65:17
People focus on so many things that will be instantly forgotten at the return of Jesus. And God tells the elect of the New Covenant the following ... 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; 17And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Heb. 10
Concerning heaven, God said ...For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. Isaiah 65:17
It may be difficult to grasp this concept of what it will be like but here is illustration that we should be able to relate to: When we saw the World Trade Center twin towers collapse, most of us focused on that scene and nothing else. We weren't thinking of anything but that scene at the exact moment of the collapse.
And so will it be at return of Jesus. All we will see and be aware of is Jesus. We won't be thinking anymore of our families or anything else.
And at that time, I will no longer have to try to get anyone to turn to God!
It will all be different and we will be different, changed to another "body", to another form.
And it will happen suddenly. If you blink your eyes it will be that fast!
I Cor. 15
But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? 36Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
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.
The dead shall rise and those who are still alive and belong to God will be changed in a twinkling of an eye and then they shall arise to meet Jesus and the dead who are risen in the air.
I Thess. 4 ... But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep (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. 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.
It will all be done in a twinkling of an eye ... blink ... it is that fast! And we will not think of family, friends, possessions. We will only think of Jesus at that time. All former things will vanish instantly and we will not remember them again. Isaiah 65:17
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Scripture: Shared by body of Christ
1 Timothy 6:6-10 ... 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.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 ... For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
Psalm 18:28 ... For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.
Psalm 18:30-32 ... As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. 31 For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God? 32 It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 ... For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
Psalm 18:28 ... For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.
Psalm 18:30-32 ... As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. 31 For who is God save the Lord? or who is a rock save our God? 32 It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.
New life through faith in Jesus
Pam Padgett ... teacher
After the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit, they began to speak boldly about Jesus, and many were healed by them as well. They were imprisoned because of these things, but an angel of God brought them out of the prison and gave them instruction to speak in the temple all the words of this life ...
Acts 5:17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, 20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. 21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. ....
As I read that they were instructed to speak the words of "this life", I thought of how our life after we are born of the Spirit of God is a different life than we had before. We believe and trust in the blood of Jesus paying for our sins and come to see our own works as worthless. We are given the Holy Spirit living in us, teaching us, guiding us, and leading us in the ways of God, continually conforming us to the image of Jesus. Whereas we may have not considered what was right in the sight of God before, doing what HE wants us to do becomes important to us. Rather than seeking our lives in this world, we try to simply turn to God and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit with each matter, knowing that nothing of this world can compare to being with God for eternity. None of this is by our will or efforts, but by the power of God.
Paul spoke of how, when we were walking according to this world, God in His great mercy and love has given us the gift of salvation by grace through faith, giving us life in Jesus ...
Ephesians 2:1 And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:it is the gift of God:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Each person who has been born again of the Spirit of God has been given a new life by God. This is not of ourselves, but by the grace and mercy of God through faith.
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ:nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Considering the amazing way God has worked in our lives, giving us a new life, causes joy and thanksgiving toward God.
After the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit, they began to speak boldly about Jesus, and many were healed by them as well. They were imprisoned because of these things, but an angel of God brought them out of the prison and gave them instruction to speak in the temple all the words of this life ...
Acts 5:17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, 20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. 21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. ....
As I read that they were instructed to speak the words of "this life", I thought of how our life after we are born of the Spirit of God is a different life than we had before. We believe and trust in the blood of Jesus paying for our sins and come to see our own works as worthless. We are given the Holy Spirit living in us, teaching us, guiding us, and leading us in the ways of God, continually conforming us to the image of Jesus. Whereas we may have not considered what was right in the sight of God before, doing what HE wants us to do becomes important to us. Rather than seeking our lives in this world, we try to simply turn to God and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit with each matter, knowing that nothing of this world can compare to being with God for eternity. None of this is by our will or efforts, but by the power of God.
Paul spoke of how, when we were walking according to this world, God in His great mercy and love has given us the gift of salvation by grace through faith, giving us life in Jesus ...
Ephesians 2:1 And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:it is the gift of God:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Each person who has been born again of the Spirit of God has been given a new life by God. This is not of ourselves, but by the grace and mercy of God through faith.
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ:nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Considering the amazing way God has worked in our lives, giving us a new life, causes joy and thanksgiving toward God.
Let patience have her perfect work
Joan Boney ... apostle/prophet
Recently one of a set of 3 hanging light fixtures in my kitchen went out. I called electrician. He said he would be over next day around 4 pm. He did not show up nor call. So I called him the following day and I asked if he would like to reschedule since he did not get to my house as planned. He scheduled again. Again he did not show up. Again I called and asked if he would like to reschedule. Four times this happened. Finally he did show up and worked on fixture for about 5 minutes and the fixture was working when he left my house. But within a matter of hours the fixture failed to work. I called him again and that time he did not answer phone but I left message. I never heard from him again.
Amazingly I was not angry. I was sorry this young man did business the way he did knowing it will harm him, but I was not angry.
I called another electrician. I explained the type of fixture and the electrician said, "We work on all fixtures." So I let him come to my house. He arrived about 10:30 that morning and was there until 5 pm working on that fixture. (He did leave for short lunch.) When he left the fixture did work. And since that time fixture has continued to work. When he left my house I said, "I'll bet you hope you never see that kind of fixture again." He replied, "Oh, no ... now I know how to fix it." It was obvious to me that when he started working on the fixture he didn't know how to fix it. Of course it cost me money for him to learn, but I know God will repay me and all I need to do is to do what God wants me to do.
Several times during that period I went to kitchen. Each time he assured me that the fixture would be fixed. I just kept saying, "Well, that's the important thing." (my focus remained on target)
I think both of these above examples are examples of "letting patience have her perfect work" as James instructed.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 1
While our flesh does not get any better and we want to tell the person off in such cases as this, we can overcome our flesh by the Spirit, yielding at the time to what we believe God wants.
James 1 ... Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Recently one of a set of 3 hanging light fixtures in my kitchen went out. I called electrician. He said he would be over next day around 4 pm. He did not show up nor call. So I called him the following day and I asked if he would like to reschedule since he did not get to my house as planned. He scheduled again. Again he did not show up. Again I called and asked if he would like to reschedule. Four times this happened. Finally he did show up and worked on fixture for about 5 minutes and the fixture was working when he left my house. But within a matter of hours the fixture failed to work. I called him again and that time he did not answer phone but I left message. I never heard from him again.
Amazingly I was not angry. I was sorry this young man did business the way he did knowing it will harm him, but I was not angry.
I called another electrician. I explained the type of fixture and the electrician said, "We work on all fixtures." So I let him come to my house. He arrived about 10:30 that morning and was there until 5 pm working on that fixture. (He did leave for short lunch.) When he left the fixture did work. And since that time fixture has continued to work. When he left my house I said, "I'll bet you hope you never see that kind of fixture again." He replied, "Oh, no ... now I know how to fix it." It was obvious to me that when he started working on the fixture he didn't know how to fix it. Of course it cost me money for him to learn, but I know God will repay me and all I need to do is to do what God wants me to do.
Several times during that period I went to kitchen. Each time he assured me that the fixture would be fixed. I just kept saying, "Well, that's the important thing." (my focus remained on target)
I think both of these above examples are examples of "letting patience have her perfect work" as James instructed.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 1
While our flesh does not get any better and we want to tell the person off in such cases as this, we can overcome our flesh by the Spirit, yielding at the time to what we believe God wants.
James 1 ... Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
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