The title of this article is: "Counting the czars"
" Exclusive: Joseph Farah declares, U.S. must be governed by people, not by 'god-like kings' "
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.printable&pageId=104443
If I were you, I would want to read it.
Again, folks, please understand me: I am not "out to get these guys." God is! He wants their souls to turn, in full repentance, to acknowledge His Son as The Lamb of God, and as the only, True Messiah, ... ( to explain a bit ) to choose (wholeheartedly) to believe in Yeshua (Jesus) as their own, personal Lord (Master) and Savior (Redeemer, The Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of all the people in the world who will believe in Him, as God's only Son, and as Messiah / Christ).
So, if you will, you could use the names listed in the article to begin (if you have not yet done so) to pray for each person, by name.
God likes us to pray specifically, ... as specifically as we are able to.
Though God's Word does not command us to pray for the salvation of souls, particular souls, what I actually mean here is to:
Ask God if He will (please) show each one of these people their need for "a Savior," to deliver them from the just punishment for their sins.
We can ask God, in prayer, also, to make each one of these people miserable (within their souls) until they accept the free gift of salvation from God, that He is offering to them, through His Son, Yeshua the Messiah (Jesus Christ).
When we read such "articles," we can rejoice that God is "at work," in us, making us more like His Son, while seriously remembering our former "fallen condition" ... under His wrath, before we accepted the free gift of salvation "in" His Son, Yeshua haMashiach (Jesus Christ).
I used to be one who rejected God.
I did not realize I was doing that, but I was.
But then, God, Whom I have acknowledged as my Father in Heaven (for quite a bunch of years now), had mercy on my wretched soul, and opened my eyes, and my understanding, to realize Who He is, and Who His Son is! Hallelujah!
What a day that was, in 1970!!
And, after that, He has been ever so faithful to grow me in Him, whenever I submit my will to His, and let His sanctifying power work within my soul!
His Holy Spirit dwells within my spirit!
He has saved my soul!
I am His!
He sought me, and bought me, with the Redeeming / Atoning Blood of His precious Son, Yeshua haMashiach!!! Hallelujah!
Anyway, please read what Mr. Farah shares, at the World Net Daily site, through the link above.
Those guys at World Net Daily are doing a great job sharing the truth, and trying to keep Americans informed of the truth. Thank God for them!
Some day, maybe very soon, we will meet in Heaven, and ... we'll get to thank them in person. I don't know if that's how it will go, in Heaven. But God will be there, and Yeshua / Jesus will be there, and The Holy Spirit will be there! And those 3 are "the most" I care about, there! What a day (an eternal day) "that" will be, too! Amen!
Hallelujah!
Showing posts with label prayer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label prayer. Show all posts
Monday, July 20, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
All is Well, again; update on Urgent Prayer Request
Update on Urgent Prayer Request:
By the fact that I did not write, right away, about anything else related to my "urgent prayer request" for you all to pray about, last weekend (on May 2), that is a signal that all is well, now.
And it is!
Praise The Lord, Who is Almighty, Hears us when we cry out to Him, and Who sees us in the plight we find ourselves in.....!
Our latest update from our son, by phone, tells us that his car is now being worked on, and he was told, by a mechanic in his area, that he should be able to drive it, today. (May 11) Hallelujah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The rest of the story is: (to me, this was more urgent, than that)
His "stuff" was all alright. (Is that correct to say, grammatically?)
Every bit of his belongings, as far as what our son has told us, was fine.
wow! That is a miracle!!
Water had gotten into some of the lower parts, or touched the bottom of his car, and was up to the doors, ... and this car is not air tight, you all!
So, it is a special protection from The Lord, that his stuff was "fine."
Thank You, Dear Lord!
The main 'stuff' -- his computer stuff with much saved information on it, etc. -- all was able to be taken out of the car in time, ... probably the next day (he didn't say), to be taken uphill to the place where he was "moving to." (if the rains had not come)
Anyway, it is all "well," and he was able to be at work that following Monday! wow!
The good part, being that his car was on "the Pearl's side" of Cane Creek, ... was a true blessing The Lord provided for our son. !!! And Mr. and Mrs. Pearl helping him, themselves, was a huge blessing!! Lord, bless them richly!!
If his car had been in several other areas, in the county, his stuff would have been ruined, besides ''no more car.''
God surely was in it, taught our son some lessons, I suppose, but showed Himself to be, once again, The Able-to-do-it Deliverer that He is!!
Too bad I let myself worry, even just a bit, ... on May 2.
I did wonder ....
but chose, most of the day, and that night, to keep in mind, and claim, for our son, God's promises, that He is able, and He wants to show He is mighty, and fights our "battles" for us.
The Lord is ever near!
He is ever prepared and ready to deliver us, in any crisis!
He always goes before us and is watching over us!
**Thanking The Lord for more things:
... He even brought back our second daughter from the missions trip to the Philippines, ... safe and sound ... and we picked her up late on Wednesday, May 6. -- !!! -- God is so good!
She has given us an update, which I will not share here.
Those who know me / us, can get that update, elsewhere. ;o) (big TX-size grin)
**A New Prayer Request:
... now, we prepare for the next challenge: (among several others coming up)
We are scheduled, Lord willing if nothing changes between now and May 30, to sing as a family of 8 (yes, our son, Lord willing, will be back home ... for a while), at a church about an hour from where we now live -- we hope it will greatly encourage the folks there, and the pastor, at Bloomingdale Baptist Church.
Please pray that hearts / souls will be encouraged, and built up in Him, not by us, but by His work done through us! (besides the pastor's message, preached that Sunday night, during the service we will sing at, and any others, there, who share a testimony, that night. Some believers are sharing soul-encouraging testimonies of how The Lord is workin' in their lives, as they fellowship together! Please encourage your pastor to let this be done in the "body" you fellowship/ worship God with. It is so uplifting and can be convicting, too, but is always good!)
This will be our first time to sing at a "strange church."
You know what I mean. Stop laughing, you all! hee hee!
We are called peculiar (people), though that means set apart for service to The Lord.
And foreigner or stranger only means they are from somewhere else, their home is elsewhere.
hee hee!
Al Smith used to say: I had a strange pianist play (it; a particular hymn) for me. What a funny way to say that. Well, now you see.... (hope you do). ;o)
Please rejoice much in The Lord, today, praising Him for Who He is !! --
El Elyon, The Most High;
El Shaddai, our All-Sufficient One;
Yahweh Sabaoth, The Lord of hosts;
YHWH Yireh, The Lord our continual Provider;
YHWH Shalom, The Lord our Peace;
YHWH Tsidkenu, The Lord our Righteousness;
YHWH Rophe, The Lord Who heals us continually; ........
He is awesome!
He has delivered our son from having a situation that might have kept him from coming home, in about 5 days, for a good visit with us!
He has delivered our son's "stuff" ...... from ruin!
He has shown us we need to be in prayer continually! (duh!) ;o) (laughing at myself)
He has shown Himself strong on the behalf of those whose hearts are mature toward Him!
He is still doing mighty, kind, merciful, loving and good things for us, His children, continually!
We need to thank Him continually, and praise His Name forever!
And He is (if you're a true believer in God's Son, Yeshua the Messiah {Jesus Christ}) fighting your battles for you, today! And His Right Hand and His Holy Arm have gotten Him the victory! So, He cannot fail.
And He is loving and blessing you today, in a mighty way!
Look for His blessings!
As we open our eyes to what great Good things The Lord is ever at work doing, on our behalf, we will soon see we've been ungrateful, while He was "doing good" for us.
Let's be more thankful to Him! He always does good for us!
Keep looking down .... from your heavenly vantage point, where He says He has you seated "in heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua." (in Jesus Christ) We must choose, daily, to abide in Him, and let His Words abide in us!, so we may give glory to His Name, in all we do!
haShem Yeshua
( that means "in Yeshua's Name" )
... kept by The Power of God ...
By the fact that I did not write, right away, about anything else related to my "urgent prayer request" for you all to pray about, last weekend (on May 2), that is a signal that all is well, now.
And it is!
Praise The Lord, Who is Almighty, Hears us when we cry out to Him, and Who sees us in the plight we find ourselves in.....!
Our latest update from our son, by phone, tells us that his car is now being worked on, and he was told, by a mechanic in his area, that he should be able to drive it, today. (May 11) Hallelujah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The rest of the story is: (to me, this was more urgent, than that)
His "stuff" was all alright. (Is that correct to say, grammatically?)
Every bit of his belongings, as far as what our son has told us, was fine.
wow! That is a miracle!!
Water had gotten into some of the lower parts, or touched the bottom of his car, and was up to the doors, ... and this car is not air tight, you all!
So, it is a special protection from The Lord, that his stuff was "fine."
Thank You, Dear Lord!
The main 'stuff' -- his computer stuff with much saved information on it, etc. -- all was able to be taken out of the car in time, ... probably the next day (he didn't say), to be taken uphill to the place where he was "moving to." (if the rains had not come)
Anyway, it is all "well," and he was able to be at work that following Monday! wow!
The good part, being that his car was on "the Pearl's side" of Cane Creek, ... was a true blessing The Lord provided for our son. !!! And Mr. and Mrs. Pearl helping him, themselves, was a huge blessing!! Lord, bless them richly!!
If his car had been in several other areas, in the county, his stuff would have been ruined, besides ''no more car.''
God surely was in it, taught our son some lessons, I suppose, but showed Himself to be, once again, The Able-to-do-it Deliverer that He is!!
Too bad I let myself worry, even just a bit, ... on May 2.
I did wonder ....
but chose, most of the day, and that night, to keep in mind, and claim, for our son, God's promises, that He is able, and He wants to show He is mighty, and fights our "battles" for us.
The Lord is ever near!
He is ever prepared and ready to deliver us, in any crisis!
He always goes before us and is watching over us!
**Thanking The Lord for more things:
... He even brought back our second daughter from the missions trip to the Philippines, ... safe and sound ... and we picked her up late on Wednesday, May 6. -- !!! -- God is so good!
She has given us an update, which I will not share here.
Those who know me / us, can get that update, elsewhere. ;o) (big TX-size grin)
**A New Prayer Request:
... now, we prepare for the next challenge: (among several others coming up)
We are scheduled, Lord willing if nothing changes between now and May 30, to sing as a family of 8 (yes, our son, Lord willing, will be back home ... for a while), at a church about an hour from where we now live -- we hope it will greatly encourage the folks there, and the pastor, at Bloomingdale Baptist Church.
Please pray that hearts / souls will be encouraged, and built up in Him, not by us, but by His work done through us! (besides the pastor's message, preached that Sunday night, during the service we will sing at, and any others, there, who share a testimony, that night. Some believers are sharing soul-encouraging testimonies of how The Lord is workin' in their lives, as they fellowship together! Please encourage your pastor to let this be done in the "body" you fellowship/ worship God with. It is so uplifting and can be convicting, too, but is always good!)
This will be our first time to sing at a "strange church."
You know what I mean. Stop laughing, you all! hee hee!
We are called peculiar (people), though that means set apart for service to The Lord.
And foreigner or stranger only means they are from somewhere else, their home is elsewhere.
hee hee!
Al Smith used to say: I had a strange pianist play (it; a particular hymn) for me. What a funny way to say that. Well, now you see.... (hope you do). ;o)
Please rejoice much in The Lord, today, praising Him for Who He is !! --
El Elyon, The Most High;
El Shaddai, our All-Sufficient One;
Yahweh Sabaoth, The Lord of hosts;
YHWH Yireh, The Lord our continual Provider;
YHWH Shalom, The Lord our Peace;
YHWH Tsidkenu, The Lord our Righteousness;
YHWH Rophe, The Lord Who heals us continually; ........
He is awesome!
He has delivered our son from having a situation that might have kept him from coming home, in about 5 days, for a good visit with us!
He has delivered our son's "stuff" ...... from ruin!
He has shown us we need to be in prayer continually! (duh!) ;o) (laughing at myself)
He has shown Himself strong on the behalf of those whose hearts are mature toward Him!
He is still doing mighty, kind, merciful, loving and good things for us, His children, continually!
We need to thank Him continually, and praise His Name forever!
And He is (if you're a true believer in God's Son, Yeshua the Messiah {Jesus Christ}) fighting your battles for you, today! And His Right Hand and His Holy Arm have gotten Him the victory! So, He cannot fail.
And He is loving and blessing you today, in a mighty way!
Look for His blessings!
As we open our eyes to what great Good things The Lord is ever at work doing, on our behalf, we will soon see we've been ungrateful, while He was "doing good" for us.
Let's be more thankful to Him! He always does good for us!
Keep looking down .... from your heavenly vantage point, where He says He has you seated "in heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua." (in Jesus Christ) We must choose, daily, to abide in Him, and let His Words abide in us!, so we may give glory to His Name, in all we do!
haShem Yeshua
( that means "in Yeshua's Name" )
... kept by The Power of God ...
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Is anyone else grieved? What are you doing...
... about how you feel?
Thanks to the generosity of both advertisers, and product makers, especially those who are at-home moms, and families, who produce products of high quality, who wish to promote their products among families on one income, through "giveaways" and, in one case, "bloggy giveaways." I am so encouraged to see how many giveaways there are, this week, and a whole passel (a whole bunch is how southerners like me say it) coming up, next week.
But ... what are you all doing about your dread-filled feelings, that so many have and are expressing on blogs and websites, regarding our nation's and our families' futures. The truthful information and predictions are quite foreboding, quite negative!
We have our Hope in Heaven, in The Lord Almighty, and in His Word, and the promises we know are shared in it, by One Who cannot lie, Who is (completely) faithful to keep His promises, and keep His people (His children, His own, His saints, all true believers) from the evil one!
The Lord is still on the throne, and (as a matter of fact) He is using (and going to use) what's been going on, what's been "planned, for many decades, in the secret societies" of rich, elite men around the world, ... all of which God must give permission, must allow, though it grieves His own Heart of Love to see anyone (who fears Him, who understands Who He is, who reverences The Almighty, El Elyon, The Lord God we worship, serve, believe in and trust in, through our belief in and allegiance to His Son, Yeshua {Jesus} The Messiah, The Anointed One of YHWH God) suffer wrongfully, ever.
The Lord is "with us." That's what Emmanuel means. That is one of Yeshua's (Jesus') Names!
The Lord is able to deliver us from harm, from lack, from drought and keep us alive in famine. He is YHWH Yireh! -- The Lord Who continually provides all we need. (for me, I must adjust what I understand to be my 'needs'!!)
The Lord is fully ready and willing to answer all our prayers that agree with His Will in motive, in trusting belief (versus doubting, as we ask Him for anything, or about anything), and in heart (desire -- do we desire His Name to be glorified, and Him to be praised, or His Plans on this earth to be forwarded, ... or do we just want our selfish will, or even just want something we want, rather than asking Him what He wants to occur?).
The Lord is ready, any time, to give us what we ask for, if we meet His simply, yet profound, and just and wise and righteous, qualifications as shared in I John 5: 14-15, 17-18 (the entire chapter is well worth reading!), and in John 14: 13-14, John 15: 7-8, and John 16: 23-24.
The Lord is able to heal us, physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, and He is able to restore our broken relationships, with friends & family and even employers and others we are acquainted with (but are not close friends with).
The Lord is able to fulfill all His Will, all His Counsel, and bring to fruition all His Plans, which are always for our good, though "as they are being worked out, on earth" we may not understand why "so many of the details" and "small moments in time" seem to be so painful, so much of a struggle, so difficult to figure out how to deal with, without wondering "why me, Lord?" or "what are You up to, Lord?"
The Lord knows what He is doing --- in the case of what's going on in Washington, D. C., and across the United States of America, ... with regard to whether or not anyone, any more, in any political leadership position, in this country, will truly, fully uphold and defend (and even "comprehend" what's in) our U. S. Constitution. He knows "why" He is allowing evil men to remain in positions of authority over us, or some of us. He knows "how" He will take care of each of His true children (saints, true believers in The Lord Yeshua The Messiah). He knows "what" His plans are to do us good, even though we may suffer, in word, or in deed, at the hands of evildoers, who honestly believe they are doing God a service, to mistreat us, falsely accuse us, or treat us wrongfully.
He will be with us at all times, if we truly belong to Him. Do we have His Holy Spirit dwelling within us? inside us? If so, then we -- in truth -- have nothing and no one to fear. Are we doing all we know to do, to follow The Lord YHWH?
Are we seeking Him to learn "what else" He wants us to do, to bring Him glory and praise, through how we live, each day?
Am finding that the most important lessons in life are not learned through textbooks, but through living real life, helping a person in need, listening to a sorrowful or suffering heart one is willing to share with us, in conversation, ... in seeing opportunities to help someone 'in need,' in any way The Lord enables each of us to help. Are we doing what He would have us do?
Am I (oh, now it's personal; it always is personal, with God, Who sees how we respond when He presents a service opportunity to any of us, as His children) making myself available, to serve Him in any way, even in ways I don't think I am qualified to serve Him in / through?
I'm evaluating some priorities, this month, as many of us are.
I'm looking deep inside, asking God to reveal hidden motives, and, as David asked YHWH to do, in the last verses in Psalm 139 (verses 23 and 24), I ask Him ...
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me (test me, to see if I am pure in heart toward You -- my version of what this phrase means), and know my thoughts (YHWH already knows all my thoughts; perhaps David means "make me aware of my wrong thoughts that do not honor You, Father."): And see if there be any wicked way (a course of life, a mode of action) in me, and lead me (will I follow Him faithfully, loyally?) in the way everlasting." -- Psalm 139: 23-24
Cry out to God, if you lack money / income!
Cry out to God, if you are suffering from a disease, or pain, or some emotional trauma!
Cry out to God, if you need Him to "act" or "manifest" His Help, His Healing, His Peace (you need to be filled with) or His deliverance from some situation that He does not endorse!
Then, choose to receive His Grace (what He uses to enable each of His children to desire to and do have the power to "do" what we call His Will), each moment, especially when you are tested, and begin to grumble or complain, as I do, at times!
And choose to "do the next thing" as Elisabeth Elliot Gren has shared, in her devotional book entitled _Keep a Quiet Heart_, by Elisabeth Elliot. -- Whatever "the next duty" you must do is, you should do it. If we do what we know to do, in practical activities (what we see must be done, on a daily basis), then God takes care of the rest of what needs to be done by Him. He is faithful to do His part, that relates to our daily lives! If we doubt this, then we can go back and read in His Word of the many times He did all that was needed, to keep His people alive, ... for any campaign (against any enemy) that God told them to go up against, ... or even in famine, The Lord took care of widows who had no real source of income but Him, and His daily provision for each one. There are more true stories in His Word, the Bible, that reveal to our sometimes clouded eyes, that He is able to give us the strength to do what we should.
The real question is: are we looking at what that "duty" is? Or are we distracted by some "thing" in this world, that has taken our focus off of Him, and onto "that thing?" Then we've made it an idol object. And an IO is leaving out one part -- the U -- God is the U in any IOU (these are American abbreviations; not sure if others in other lands use the letters IOU in this way as we Americans do). God is the ONly One to Whom we owe our attention or our skills / giftings / abilities, in service, or in taking time to try to accomplish any task or project!
So, I must ask myself: is what I want to do ... something that my Father in Heaven has told me to do, or wants me to do?
If I evaluate what my priorities are, for today, or for the coming month, or year, I must first examine my own heart, to see if my motives toward my Lord and Savior are "righteous" and honoring to His Name. After examining my heart, each night, or morning, in prayer to my Lord, to God my Father, ... then, I must also take time to listen to His Holy Spirit, Who speaks to me through His Word, in my Bible. Doing these two things will begin each day with a much more correct perspective on "life on earth." ! God is able to help us, but we tie His Hands, so to speak, and prevent Him from helping us, ... in a real way ... if we ignore His commands He's given us through His Son, Yeshua The Messiah. They are taught in The Word, from Genesis 1 to The Revelation (given by Yeshua) to John (the apostle) 22.
II Timothy 3: 16 (in Rav Shaul's / Paul's letter to his disciple in the faith, named Timothy) "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in Righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect (fresh, complete), throughly (thoroughly) furnished unto all good works (fully enabled to "accomplish" the good activities, endeavours that God would have, or lead, each believer to do)."
Yeshua's commands do seem to be concentrated / taught in the New Covenant (most call it the New Testament). However, "Sh'ma Yisrael, Adonai Elohenu, Adonai Echad," does mean "Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God, The Lord is One." And in His Word, all that is written therein is to be used (by us) to learn from, to teach (others), and to use in correcting ourselves, and to enable us to better understand, and do, what He leads us and expects us to do.
If you wish to learn more about what Yeshua has commanded us to do and to know that He wants us to do, please visit: http://iblp.org/iblp/discipleship/dailysuccess/
Learn what Jesus (Yeshua) commanded each of us children of God to do! It will inspire you! It will encourage your heart!
If you choose to enroll in the Daily Success scripture meditation program, through that site, you will receive daily emails, to share with you truths that will transform your life, and will bring you "good success." ... as mentioned in Joshua 1: 8-9.
As you do the same, I will be 'working on' choosing to think right, live right, and do right. God is able to enable you, and me! We must plod on, willingly, cheerfully, and lovingly. Our Lord Yeshua did, while He was on earth, homeless, alone (in more ways than one), and listening to, and following God's leading, ... in much prayer, in fasting, in suffering, in rejoicing, ... in a loving, living response to His Father in Heaven. He just asks us to follow Him, in doing the same. And He promises He will enable us to do "greater" things than He was able to accomplish on earth, in His short time of ministry (only 3 years), before He laid down His Life, on the tree, and died, and then was resurrected on the third day, according to the Scriptures. Will we be busy about doing our Father's business, as He was?
Let's try our best, because He is "with us" to enable us to do it. He promised! (if we are willing to cooperate with Him, in it)
Today, my goal is: to yield my rights to The Lord, and my expectations to The Lord (in prayer)
Thanks to the generosity of both advertisers, and product makers, especially those who are at-home moms, and families, who produce products of high quality, who wish to promote their products among families on one income, through "giveaways" and, in one case, "bloggy giveaways." I am so encouraged to see how many giveaways there are, this week, and a whole passel (a whole bunch is how southerners like me say it) coming up, next week.
But ... what are you all doing about your dread-filled feelings, that so many have and are expressing on blogs and websites, regarding our nation's and our families' futures. The truthful information and predictions are quite foreboding, quite negative!
We have our Hope in Heaven, in The Lord Almighty, and in His Word, and the promises we know are shared in it, by One Who cannot lie, Who is (completely) faithful to keep His promises, and keep His people (His children, His own, His saints, all true believers) from the evil one!
The Lord is still on the throne, and (as a matter of fact) He is using (and going to use) what's been going on, what's been "planned, for many decades, in the secret societies" of rich, elite men around the world, ... all of which God must give permission, must allow, though it grieves His own Heart of Love to see anyone (who fears Him, who understands Who He is, who reverences The Almighty, El Elyon, The Lord God we worship, serve, believe in and trust in, through our belief in and allegiance to His Son, Yeshua {Jesus} The Messiah, The Anointed One of YHWH God) suffer wrongfully, ever.
The Lord is "with us." That's what Emmanuel means. That is one of Yeshua's (Jesus') Names!
The Lord is able to deliver us from harm, from lack, from drought and keep us alive in famine. He is YHWH Yireh! -- The Lord Who continually provides all we need. (for me, I must adjust what I understand to be my 'needs'!!)
The Lord is fully ready and willing to answer all our prayers that agree with His Will in motive, in trusting belief (versus doubting, as we ask Him for anything, or about anything), and in heart (desire -- do we desire His Name to be glorified, and Him to be praised, or His Plans on this earth to be forwarded, ... or do we just want our selfish will, or even just want something we want, rather than asking Him what He wants to occur?).
The Lord is ready, any time, to give us what we ask for, if we meet His simply, yet profound, and just and wise and righteous, qualifications as shared in I John 5: 14-15, 17-18 (the entire chapter is well worth reading!), and in John 14: 13-14, John 15: 7-8, and John 16: 23-24.
The Lord is able to heal us, physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, and He is able to restore our broken relationships, with friends & family and even employers and others we are acquainted with (but are not close friends with).
The Lord is able to fulfill all His Will, all His Counsel, and bring to fruition all His Plans, which are always for our good, though "as they are being worked out, on earth" we may not understand why "so many of the details" and "small moments in time" seem to be so painful, so much of a struggle, so difficult to figure out how to deal with, without wondering "why me, Lord?" or "what are You up to, Lord?"
The Lord knows what He is doing --- in the case of what's going on in Washington, D. C., and across the United States of America, ... with regard to whether or not anyone, any more, in any political leadership position, in this country, will truly, fully uphold and defend (and even "comprehend" what's in) our U. S. Constitution. He knows "why" He is allowing evil men to remain in positions of authority over us, or some of us. He knows "how" He will take care of each of His true children (saints, true believers in The Lord Yeshua The Messiah). He knows "what" His plans are to do us good, even though we may suffer, in word, or in deed, at the hands of evildoers, who honestly believe they are doing God a service, to mistreat us, falsely accuse us, or treat us wrongfully.
He will be with us at all times, if we truly belong to Him. Do we have His Holy Spirit dwelling within us? inside us? If so, then we -- in truth -- have nothing and no one to fear. Are we doing all we know to do, to follow The Lord YHWH?
Are we seeking Him to learn "what else" He wants us to do, to bring Him glory and praise, through how we live, each day?
Am finding that the most important lessons in life are not learned through textbooks, but through living real life, helping a person in need, listening to a sorrowful or suffering heart one is willing to share with us, in conversation, ... in seeing opportunities to help someone 'in need,' in any way The Lord enables each of us to help. Are we doing what He would have us do?
Am I (oh, now it's personal; it always is personal, with God, Who sees how we respond when He presents a service opportunity to any of us, as His children) making myself available, to serve Him in any way, even in ways I don't think I am qualified to serve Him in / through?
I'm evaluating some priorities, this month, as many of us are.
I'm looking deep inside, asking God to reveal hidden motives, and, as David asked YHWH to do, in the last verses in Psalm 139 (verses 23 and 24), I ask Him ...
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me (test me, to see if I am pure in heart toward You -- my version of what this phrase means), and know my thoughts (YHWH already knows all my thoughts; perhaps David means "make me aware of my wrong thoughts that do not honor You, Father."): And see if there be any wicked way (a course of life, a mode of action) in me, and lead me (will I follow Him faithfully, loyally?) in the way everlasting." -- Psalm 139: 23-24
Cry out to God, if you lack money / income!
Cry out to God, if you are suffering from a disease, or pain, or some emotional trauma!
Cry out to God, if you need Him to "act" or "manifest" His Help, His Healing, His Peace (you need to be filled with) or His deliverance from some situation that He does not endorse!
Then, choose to receive His Grace (what He uses to enable each of His children to desire to and do have the power to "do" what we call His Will), each moment, especially when you are tested, and begin to grumble or complain, as I do, at times!
And choose to "do the next thing" as Elisabeth Elliot Gren has shared, in her devotional book entitled _Keep a Quiet Heart_, by Elisabeth Elliot. -- Whatever "the next duty" you must do is, you should do it. If we do what we know to do, in practical activities (what we see must be done, on a daily basis), then God takes care of the rest of what needs to be done by Him. He is faithful to do His part, that relates to our daily lives! If we doubt this, then we can go back and read in His Word of the many times He did all that was needed, to keep His people alive, ... for any campaign (against any enemy) that God told them to go up against, ... or even in famine, The Lord took care of widows who had no real source of income but Him, and His daily provision for each one. There are more true stories in His Word, the Bible, that reveal to our sometimes clouded eyes, that He is able to give us the strength to do what we should.
The real question is: are we looking at what that "duty" is? Or are we distracted by some "thing" in this world, that has taken our focus off of Him, and onto "that thing?" Then we've made it an idol object. And an IO is leaving out one part -- the U -- God is the U in any IOU (these are American abbreviations; not sure if others in other lands use the letters IOU in this way as we Americans do). God is the ONly One to Whom we owe our attention or our skills / giftings / abilities, in service, or in taking time to try to accomplish any task or project!
So, I must ask myself: is what I want to do ... something that my Father in Heaven has told me to do, or wants me to do?
If I evaluate what my priorities are, for today, or for the coming month, or year, I must first examine my own heart, to see if my motives toward my Lord and Savior are "righteous" and honoring to His Name. After examining my heart, each night, or morning, in prayer to my Lord, to God my Father, ... then, I must also take time to listen to His Holy Spirit, Who speaks to me through His Word, in my Bible. Doing these two things will begin each day with a much more correct perspective on "life on earth." ! God is able to help us, but we tie His Hands, so to speak, and prevent Him from helping us, ... in a real way ... if we ignore His commands He's given us through His Son, Yeshua The Messiah. They are taught in The Word, from Genesis 1 to The Revelation (given by Yeshua) to John (the apostle) 22.
II Timothy 3: 16 (in Rav Shaul's / Paul's letter to his disciple in the faith, named Timothy) "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in Righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect (fresh, complete), throughly (thoroughly) furnished unto all good works (fully enabled to "accomplish" the good activities, endeavours that God would have, or lead, each believer to do)."
Yeshua's commands do seem to be concentrated / taught in the New Covenant (most call it the New Testament). However, "Sh'ma Yisrael, Adonai Elohenu, Adonai Echad," does mean "Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God, The Lord is One." And in His Word, all that is written therein is to be used (by us) to learn from, to teach (others), and to use in correcting ourselves, and to enable us to better understand, and do, what He leads us and expects us to do.
If you wish to learn more about what Yeshua has commanded us to do and to know that He wants us to do, please visit: http://iblp.org/iblp/discipleship/dailysuccess/
Learn what Jesus (Yeshua) commanded each of us children of God to do! It will inspire you! It will encourage your heart!
If you choose to enroll in the Daily Success scripture meditation program, through that site, you will receive daily emails, to share with you truths that will transform your life, and will bring you "good success." ... as mentioned in Joshua 1: 8-9.
As you do the same, I will be 'working on' choosing to think right, live right, and do right. God is able to enable you, and me! We must plod on, willingly, cheerfully, and lovingly. Our Lord Yeshua did, while He was on earth, homeless, alone (in more ways than one), and listening to, and following God's leading, ... in much prayer, in fasting, in suffering, in rejoicing, ... in a loving, living response to His Father in Heaven. He just asks us to follow Him, in doing the same. And He promises He will enable us to do "greater" things than He was able to accomplish on earth, in His short time of ministry (only 3 years), before He laid down His Life, on the tree, and died, and then was resurrected on the third day, according to the Scriptures. Will we be busy about doing our Father's business, as He was?
Let's try our best, because He is "with us" to enable us to do it. He promised! (if we are willing to cooperate with Him, in it)
Today, my goal is: to yield my rights to The Lord, and my expectations to The Lord (in prayer)
Thursday, June 26, 2008
the next update on the Up Hill-ies
The families and people here in Tennessee have welcomed us with open arms. For that, we all are very grateful to God, our Father in Heaven!
Even the folks who do not truly 'know' The Lord Yeshua have been very gracious and friendly to us, as we share with them how they can know for sure that, when they die, they will go to Heaven, to be with God, with Yeshua the Messiah and with The Holy Spirit of God, the Ruach ha Chodesh. I have been amazed at how willing to listen most people here are, when we tell them of our Lord and Redeemer, Yeshua!
It can only be that God is making more folks 'more open' to spiritual topics, because they do continue to 'appear' in the newspapers and through other media sources. We get our "news" only from the internet and through emails others write or send to us. So, since we are not hearing all of what those folks (the lost souls, who are not aware of how much God has done for them and how much He dearly Loves them) are hearing or seeing, in what they call 'the news,' we can only figure that God may be using all the disasters in weather, all the war stories, the horrible failure of our government, of companies, of banking systems and of the government educational system in the USA ... to cause them to realize that, if God exists (and He does!), maybe they 'should' begin to be 'willing' to listen to what He wants them to hear.
We miss our beloved, long-time friends we had to move away from, in Texas, and elsewhere!
However ...
The home educating families we have met in person, since we moved, have also welcomed us with open arms!
Just this week, we have counted 5 other families who use the same home education curriculum / program we use! For us, that is a very encouraging answer to prayer! When we first moved here, we were only aware of two families. Then, when we first visited the Bible-believing, soul-winning, prayerful, faith-filled congregation where we are now members, we met one more family.
The lady through whom we met the folks we now rent this property from ... has a son whose family also use the same materials we use, to educate "their" children! We knew of her several months ago. But we only learned a few days ago, that her grown son and his wife educate their children with the same materials we are glad to be using.
And we owe our learning about those materials to some very dear friends whom God let us meet, over 16 years ago, when they invited us to attend our first Basic Seminar (formerly the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts), in Dallas, TX -- the DelMuls! Thank you, Mary Lou and Daniel! You all have been such a blessing to us, to know!
And now, the Lord has let us learn, through another kind mom who contacted me, who also home educates her children, in a city not far from us, about two more families, who use the same materials we use! wow!
And a group of home-educating families, who meet in the city where we live (just outside of), also care enough to be using some booklets to teach and encourage their young people and children with ... which are part of a program called the Keepers of the Faith. It is a bit like a Biblical alternative to Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Many home-educating families like this program!
So, once again, God has blessed us with one more thing that I had prayed God might, if He wanted us to, allow our younger children to use, to learn some good and fun skills through using the booklets of the Keepers of the Faith, Keepers at Home and the Contenders for the Faith 'clubs.' The link for this ministry is at: http://www.keepersofthefaith.com/
Besides all that, one group of home-educating families allowed several of us to go along, on a field trip, not long after we moved here, to a waterfall, ... actually we saw two waterfalls. They were not far from the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. Nestled in among the mountains, they were just there, flowing down from high hills, and then continuing to flow on and on, over larger and smaller rocks ... on down, following gravity's path to the lowest point, a river in the area.
Mini-Geography Lesson:
Am learning more and more about the rivers in this area, since we moved here. They all, on this west side of the Appalachian Mountains, flow into the Tennessee River, at some point. And that flows into the Mississippi River. It surprises me the path that the Tennessee River follows. Would have thought that the creeks, streams, small rivers and larger rivers, would flow south into the Gulf of Mexico. But there are hills far too high, south of this area, to allow for that. So, to the west, the further the Tennessee River carries water and its supply of fish and all else, the elevation continues to go down, until the water reaches the Ohio River, at Paducah, Kentucky, before the Ohio flows further west, for a short distance, and dumps its contents into the wide, old Mississippi! We sure have a lot to learn! Geography is so fun to look at, and think about. God has made this world so very interesting to study about. And He keeps us asking questions, doesn't He?!
Isaiah 57: 15 reminds us
"For thus saith The High and Lofty One (Who) inhabiteth eternity, Whose Name is Holy; I dwell in the High and Holy Place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." !!
God is so generous!
He has used other folks He already knew before we came to this place, to live, to want, freely, to share with us their abundance of vegetables, as well as their time!
He has moved the hearts of folks who live in this area, and love The Lord, to gather food and other material things we can use, and pass those things on to us, to use as we are able.
Hallelujah!!!
And The Good Lord Who rules over all has seen fit to allow us, as a family, soon to share about the new ministry called the Life in the Bible Institute!
Please pray that The Almighty, Who orchestrates all the good that goes on, and allows the evil for His good purposes He can bring about, after it occurs, to use our family to do the good, in teaching, and in passing on to others the Knowledge of him and of His Word, that He has been teaching us, to turn the hearts of men ... to their Maker, Redeemer and best Friend!
The Lord YHWH bless you in all you do, as you seek His Face and as you will to do His Will, for His glory, praise and honor!
... more later ....
-- keep in touch!
Even the folks who do not truly 'know' The Lord Yeshua have been very gracious and friendly to us, as we share with them how they can know for sure that, when they die, they will go to Heaven, to be with God, with Yeshua the Messiah and with The Holy Spirit of God, the Ruach ha Chodesh. I have been amazed at how willing to listen most people here are, when we tell them of our Lord and Redeemer, Yeshua!
It can only be that God is making more folks 'more open' to spiritual topics, because they do continue to 'appear' in the newspapers and through other media sources. We get our "news" only from the internet and through emails others write or send to us. So, since we are not hearing all of what those folks (the lost souls, who are not aware of how much God has done for them and how much He dearly Loves them) are hearing or seeing, in what they call 'the news,' we can only figure that God may be using all the disasters in weather, all the war stories, the horrible failure of our government, of companies, of banking systems and of the government educational system in the USA ... to cause them to realize that, if God exists (and He does!), maybe they 'should' begin to be 'willing' to listen to what He wants them to hear.
We miss our beloved, long-time friends we had to move away from, in Texas, and elsewhere!
However ...
The home educating families we have met in person, since we moved, have also welcomed us with open arms!
Just this week, we have counted 5 other families who use the same home education curriculum / program we use! For us, that is a very encouraging answer to prayer! When we first moved here, we were only aware of two families. Then, when we first visited the Bible-believing, soul-winning, prayerful, faith-filled congregation where we are now members, we met one more family.
The lady through whom we met the folks we now rent this property from ... has a son whose family also use the same materials we use, to educate "their" children! We knew of her several months ago. But we only learned a few days ago, that her grown son and his wife educate their children with the same materials we are glad to be using.
And we owe our learning about those materials to some very dear friends whom God let us meet, over 16 years ago, when they invited us to attend our first Basic Seminar (formerly the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts), in Dallas, TX -- the DelMuls! Thank you, Mary Lou and Daniel! You all have been such a blessing to us, to know!
And now, the Lord has let us learn, through another kind mom who contacted me, who also home educates her children, in a city not far from us, about two more families, who use the same materials we use! wow!
And a group of home-educating families, who meet in the city where we live (just outside of), also care enough to be using some booklets to teach and encourage their young people and children with ... which are part of a program called the Keepers of the Faith. It is a bit like a Biblical alternative to Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Many home-educating families like this program!
So, once again, God has blessed us with one more thing that I had prayed God might, if He wanted us to, allow our younger children to use, to learn some good and fun skills through using the booklets of the Keepers of the Faith, Keepers at Home and the Contenders for the Faith 'clubs.' The link for this ministry is at: http://www.keepersofthefaith.com/
Besides all that, one group of home-educating families allowed several of us to go along, on a field trip, not long after we moved here, to a waterfall, ... actually we saw two waterfalls. They were not far from the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. Nestled in among the mountains, they were just there, flowing down from high hills, and then continuing to flow on and on, over larger and smaller rocks ... on down, following gravity's path to the lowest point, a river in the area.
Mini-Geography Lesson:
Am learning more and more about the rivers in this area, since we moved here. They all, on this west side of the Appalachian Mountains, flow into the Tennessee River, at some point. And that flows into the Mississippi River. It surprises me the path that the Tennessee River follows. Would have thought that the creeks, streams, small rivers and larger rivers, would flow south into the Gulf of Mexico. But there are hills far too high, south of this area, to allow for that. So, to the west, the further the Tennessee River carries water and its supply of fish and all else, the elevation continues to go down, until the water reaches the Ohio River, at Paducah, Kentucky, before the Ohio flows further west, for a short distance, and dumps its contents into the wide, old Mississippi! We sure have a lot to learn! Geography is so fun to look at, and think about. God has made this world so very interesting to study about. And He keeps us asking questions, doesn't He?!
Isaiah 57: 15 reminds us
"For thus saith The High and Lofty One (Who) inhabiteth eternity, Whose Name is Holy; I dwell in the High and Holy Place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." !!
God is so generous!
He has used other folks He already knew before we came to this place, to live, to want, freely, to share with us their abundance of vegetables, as well as their time!
He has moved the hearts of folks who live in this area, and love The Lord, to gather food and other material things we can use, and pass those things on to us, to use as we are able.
Hallelujah!!!
And The Good Lord Who rules over all has seen fit to allow us, as a family, soon to share about the new ministry called the Life in the Bible Institute!
Please pray that The Almighty, Who orchestrates all the good that goes on, and allows the evil for His good purposes He can bring about, after it occurs, to use our family to do the good, in teaching, and in passing on to others the Knowledge of him and of His Word, that He has been teaching us, to turn the hearts of men ... to their Maker, Redeemer and best Friend!
The Lord YHWH bless you in all you do, as you seek His Face and as you will to do His Will, for His glory, praise and honor!
... more later ....
-- keep in touch!
Update for the Up Hill-ies
We are still here! ;o) (big smile) Thank you for waiting for an update on what we've been doin' ... up on this hill in the mountains of northeastern Tennessee!
Here is a list: (for those who are engineers I've worked for, businessmen I've worked for, doctors I've known, former public school teachers who only wanted to be listened to, and who often were mathematics educators, as well as many who are ... non-artists, non-musicians, and otherwise prefer things to be ordered (which is a good thing!), listed (related to orderliness, and that is good!), not "conversational" (sorry guys, but some of you are that way; other men are the opposite of that way) or ... who like to listen more than they talk, and are known by some as deep thinkers. Yes, I am one who prefers to talk (only when possible and only when it is the preferred mode for relaying very important information!), rather than listen. But that comes because I have just finished reading over 2 hours' worth of information and facts from human sources, plus truths and amazing and miraculous "doings" of God Almighty, from His Word! So, I am "ready to talk!" ... now)
1. visiting congregations of true believers ... who are all quite serious about what they believe, Who they believe in, and how they plan to live out what they believe
2. ... and we found one. But that is not to say that the other choices were not also good. We just chose one, because that one will surely keep us quite busy, as one outlet for serving God and reaching out to the community as well as sharing our life testimonies of how The Lord Yeshua The Messiah brought us to the knowledge of The Truth -- that He bought our Redemption and has made full atonement for our sins, and for our sinful lives (of the past).
3. we've been singing as a family of 8, at times when others have asked us to sing, before a church congregation. We are willing to sing elsewhere. Just need to find time, during a week coming soon to a city near you, ... when one or more of us can contact "other organizations" that might be receptive to us coming to sing. I believe it may be that our dear Lord, Who bought us, and owns us, is awaiting us becoming "more professional" and "more together" as a singing family, ... so that our "sound" (overall) will show we are "ready" for singing for groups other than just churches where we are already members.
4. we've been helping with the bussed-in children's ministry, that Harvest Baptist Church has, for children who live in a nearby city, near where we are, as well as children in the city where we live. There is an outreach program that ministers to at least 30 to 40 families, and several of us have been involved in the Sunday morning "worship and Bible lesson time" with the children who are a part of this program. Our own children are also involved in it.
5. we have helped in door to door, one on one, evangelizing in neighborhoods as well as other areas. We usually pass out Gospel tracts, when we can, during the week. We meet with others, weekly, also, to go out, door to door, to share The Message of how anyone can come to "Peace" and "Reconciliation" with The Lord God and with His Son, Yeshua the Messiah, through knowing "their spiritual condition" before God, and then, through accepting the free gift, through Grace, of "redemption" and "rest" through trusting and believing in the atoning sacrifice made by The true Lamb of God, Yeshua the Messiah, Who voluntarily gave His Life, on the Roman execution stake, for our lives. Now, all we need to do is (after we have accepted His free gift, through Grace) live our lives for Him, Who loved us, when we did not love Him!
6. we have helped with the Vacation (summertime) Bible School (learning time and craft time and enjoyment time) that Harvest Baptist Church organized, during June of this year. We volunteered to:
a. plan for, and offer a list for food donations among members of the congregation, and ... then buy and prepare food for the children (and some for workers) at the VBS.
b. teach (two of us) classes of children, from age 4-5 up to age 11-12, about The Six Days of Creation ... and about Dinosaurs living at the same time as man, and being created by God Almighty on the same day as man was created (day 6) ... and about The worldwide Flood during Noah's lifetime. At least 20 children accepted Yeshua's free gift of salvation! (out of almost 60, who came) We pray God will give each one a desire to know Him better, in the days to come. And we pray their parents will allow these children to attend a Bible-believing church in this area, or ours, so they can continue to grow in their spiritual life in The Lord, each child.
c. help decorate (be in charge of decorating, as much as was desired) the classrooms, as needed, and ... to decorate any other areas used for VBS
d. help with sound during the song singing time, in the sanctuary, during VBS, as well as passing out refreshments, during class time, and to help with game time on Saturday afternoon
... more later. Time to go "share the Gospel." (out in the community)
... stay tuned !
We have, so far, been made aware of 5 other home educating families who live in this same nearby area of His world, who ... have basically the same standards as our family has become convicted of, by The Lord. We rejoice in this news! God likes His children to be encouraged! And strengthened in Him and in His Word ! And He likes His children to know all they can, that will enable their "spiritual battling" to be done effectively, through His Holy Spirit and through His mighty dunamis Power! Hallelujah!
Here is a list: (for those who are engineers I've worked for, businessmen I've worked for, doctors I've known, former public school teachers who only wanted to be listened to, and who often were mathematics educators, as well as many who are ... non-artists, non-musicians, and otherwise prefer things to be ordered (which is a good thing!), listed (related to orderliness, and that is good!), not "conversational" (sorry guys, but some of you are that way; other men are the opposite of that way) or ... who like to listen more than they talk, and are known by some as deep thinkers. Yes, I am one who prefers to talk (only when possible and only when it is the preferred mode for relaying very important information!), rather than listen. But that comes because I have just finished reading over 2 hours' worth of information and facts from human sources, plus truths and amazing and miraculous "doings" of God Almighty, from His Word! So, I am "ready to talk!" ... now)
1. visiting congregations of true believers ... who are all quite serious about what they believe, Who they believe in, and how they plan to live out what they believe
2. ... and we found one. But that is not to say that the other choices were not also good. We just chose one, because that one will surely keep us quite busy, as one outlet for serving God and reaching out to the community as well as sharing our life testimonies of how The Lord Yeshua The Messiah brought us to the knowledge of The Truth -- that He bought our Redemption and has made full atonement for our sins, and for our sinful lives (of the past).
3. we've been singing as a family of 8, at times when others have asked us to sing, before a church congregation. We are willing to sing elsewhere. Just need to find time, during a week coming soon to a city near you, ... when one or more of us can contact "other organizations" that might be receptive to us coming to sing. I believe it may be that our dear Lord, Who bought us, and owns us, is awaiting us becoming "more professional" and "more together" as a singing family, ... so that our "sound" (overall) will show we are "ready" for singing for groups other than just churches where we are already members.
4. we've been helping with the bussed-in children's ministry, that Harvest Baptist Church has, for children who live in a nearby city, near where we are, as well as children in the city where we live. There is an outreach program that ministers to at least 30 to 40 families, and several of us have been involved in the Sunday morning "worship and Bible lesson time" with the children who are a part of this program. Our own children are also involved in it.
5. we have helped in door to door, one on one, evangelizing in neighborhoods as well as other areas. We usually pass out Gospel tracts, when we can, during the week. We meet with others, weekly, also, to go out, door to door, to share The Message of how anyone can come to "Peace" and "Reconciliation" with The Lord God and with His Son, Yeshua the Messiah, through knowing "their spiritual condition" before God, and then, through accepting the free gift, through Grace, of "redemption" and "rest" through trusting and believing in the atoning sacrifice made by The true Lamb of God, Yeshua the Messiah, Who voluntarily gave His Life, on the Roman execution stake, for our lives. Now, all we need to do is (after we have accepted His free gift, through Grace) live our lives for Him, Who loved us, when we did not love Him!
6. we have helped with the Vacation (summertime) Bible School (learning time and craft time and enjoyment time) that Harvest Baptist Church organized, during June of this year. We volunteered to:
a. plan for, and offer a list for food donations among members of the congregation, and ... then buy and prepare food for the children (and some for workers) at the VBS.
b. teach (two of us) classes of children, from age 4-5 up to age 11-12, about The Six Days of Creation ... and about Dinosaurs living at the same time as man, and being created by God Almighty on the same day as man was created (day 6) ... and about The worldwide Flood during Noah's lifetime. At least 20 children accepted Yeshua's free gift of salvation! (out of almost 60, who came) We pray God will give each one a desire to know Him better, in the days to come. And we pray their parents will allow these children to attend a Bible-believing church in this area, or ours, so they can continue to grow in their spiritual life in The Lord, each child.
c. help decorate (be in charge of decorating, as much as was desired) the classrooms, as needed, and ... to decorate any other areas used for VBS
d. help with sound during the song singing time, in the sanctuary, during VBS, as well as passing out refreshments, during class time, and to help with game time on Saturday afternoon
... more later. Time to go "share the Gospel." (out in the community)
... stay tuned !
We have, so far, been made aware of 5 other home educating families who live in this same nearby area of His world, who ... have basically the same standards as our family has become convicted of, by The Lord. We rejoice in this news! God likes His children to be encouraged! And strengthened in Him and in His Word ! And He likes His children to know all they can, that will enable their "spiritual battling" to be done effectively, through His Holy Spirit and through His mighty dunamis Power! Hallelujah!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Moving ! -- ? To Tennessee we go !
Friends,
Our family is ready-ing for a move of all our "stuff and junk" (our best things, you understand; I call everything on the earth "stuff" and "junk"!) to a new place to place it all, for another little while. ... we're moving to Elizabethton, Tennessee. Look for Johnson City on a map of Tennessee, and you'll see Elizabethton just to the east of it. ;o)
It is a city with along history. It is in a lovely location, nestled in among some mountains and hills, with the Cherokee National Forest practically out our back door. ;o) It is about 25 miles from Virginia's border, and even closer to North Carolina's border! It is in an area where there are annual festivals such as Highland Games, and Bluegrass singing fests, and historical re-enactments, and nature centers with educational events, and historical homes from when there was a state called Franklin there ... and more. It is in an area where there are hundreds of families who home educate their children! And it is in an area where we can get to at least 4 large cities, within about 2 hours' driving time. That last fact will enable our men to "gather in" the work they hope to work on, in the months to come. ;o)
And our children think it will be wonderful to be in a place where we can drive about 10 miles away and be camping at a large lake, surrounded by mountains, and down the road another 5 miles (?) is Roan Mountain, which is over 6,200 ft. above sea level. ;o) Roan Mtn. has an annual rhododendron festival we hope to go to -- with historical crafts, local artists, and many learning opportunities there, throughout the year. And ... if we decide to "holler," some day, the local folks will feel like we fit right in, I hope -- with "hollows" among the "rows" of mountains within a minute or two from where we will live. ;o)
We will live at or almost at the top of a hill, from photos we've seen -- quite a few. I'll be enjoyin' hanging our clothes out to dry, just waiting for a good, strong breeze to blow on them. ;o) We will be borrowing this place, for a while, ... and still lookin' around, for the next place where God may want to plant us, for a while.
We hope to find some folks who like to listen to regular folks singin' God-honoring songs in harmony, all eight of us, together. And maybe we'll find some college or high school students who like a good debate -- creation science? intelligent design? Mathematical principles and concepts inspired by God's Word ?!! -- yes! Medical discoveries inspired by God's Word ?!! -- yes! Inventions designed based on principles or descriptions shared by God in His Word ?! -- yes! Quotes that are commonly used in the United States of America ... originated in or were derived from God's Word ?!! -- yes! ... and more.
We hope to find some folks who want to lose weight, ... or just keep what they like, and get rid of "the rest." We hope to share some ideas other experts have made us aware of, to enhance energetic, and rejuvenated living. We will be listening for opportunities to teach women and young ladies how to prepare food so that it provides the maximum nutrition, per ounce -- that's called *nutrient dense.* Yum! We hope to share how to use "soaked grains," and "condiments" made in a new and fresher way, to enhance our bodies' ability to use what God originally designed grains and vegetables to nourish us with. I might even get to lead a ladies' cooking class, sharing some (or all) of these ideas, which were taught to me by Mrs. Eric (Nancy) Wesson and Mrs. Mike (Connie) Hale. They live in Texas. { oh well. ;o) }
We hope that, if anyone plans to get married in northeastern Tennessee, they might want to test us out, in taking photographs of them or during their wedding, ... or perhaps they would like us to make a video of their special event. This could also help those who are celebrating special wedding anniversaries, or having a special birthday celebration, or a very special dinner. ... we are open to other suggestions, within reason. ;o) (we will be glad to help with truly Christian-theme events)
If anyone has a need for someone to play piano for a special event, or for a wedding, or at a special restaurant, or ... Aaron is ready to help fill that need. If anyone has a need for specially-designed artwork and brochures for advertising their business, of any size, ... Elizabeth is ready to help fill that need. If anyone has a need for a lovely quilt, Amy is ready to help with that special gift.
If anyone has a need for a word quote (Scriptures from God's Holy Word, and any very-closely-related verse, with approval), Kathy is ready to help meet that need. You choose the frame. I'll write the quote. You choose either Old English lettering -- either more Gothic in lettering style or else more like book hand, or black-letter, style. Or you may wish to use my version of Chancery cursive, or Italic lettering, with either italicized (slanted to the right) or upright letters. Or you may wish to have your wedding envelopes hand-addressed, with a calligraphy pen or marker, for *that special touch* of "Love." We have two lettering styles we use, for that -- just ask. ;o)
And we will be ready to share DVDs and, in some cases, printed information we are now working on, real soon, for those who want to learn more about, and ask their pastor about Michael coming to speak about the *Life in the Bible Institute,* and what it is able to do, to enhance to and build upon what your pastor's ministry is already trying to achieve.
If you are interested in learning more about how to restore Faith in the Foundation of all Knowledge, contact us at our website (a link is below). Anyone wishing to donate to this IRS-approved, 501(c)-3 non-profit charitable organization, may inquire about it by visiting our website at: http://www.lifeinthebible.org We accept donations through PayPal, so it is quite easy. Any amount will help us "get the Word out!"
We do very much appreciate anyone who wishes to help us, in any way, especially by praying for us, for safety, protection, for provision, for wisdom and spiritual understanding, and for new friends who "might" be nearly as Godly, loving, kind, thoughtful and caring as you, our "best" friends have been to us all. We will miss everyone we've known in Texas, so dearly, that our eyes tear up, when we think of how we will miss you all so much. ;o( We do not take helpful kindness (in praying for us) lightly -- we ask God to richly bless you! And He is so rich in mercy, Love, kindness and help, that He will repay you, in His manifold, creative ways! He does it so well! Praise His Name!
Those who know me may email me at my usual email address. For others who know us but do not have my email address, please email us at: michael@utmost-way.com
We pack and leave our place here in TX on March 31. We unpack the moving truck there in TN on April 3. Please pray all goes well and that God's amazing provision, once again, comes through in time for every need. Having a full-time ministry does give us (all of you, too) plenty of opportunities to demonstrate to those around us, whether or not we truly DO trust God and obey His Word! ... and His Holy Spirit's promptings! (oh, stop it! conviction time!)
He is able! Nothing (!!) is too hard for Him! -- Jeremiah 32: 27
... God bless you all with His Strength for your day, his Love for your particular need and your healing of soul and body, and His Shalom Peace to surround you with the restfulness, health, and prospering in your soul that you desire, in the midst of any storms going on around you!
... in His agape Love .....
~ me ~ (K)
... trusting in His Faithfulness!
http://soulstirringmusic.wordpress.com
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Our family is ready-ing for a move of all our "stuff and junk" (our best things, you understand; I call everything on the earth "stuff" and "junk"!) to a new place to place it all, for another little while. ... we're moving to Elizabethton, Tennessee. Look for Johnson City on a map of Tennessee, and you'll see Elizabethton just to the east of it. ;o)
It is a city with along history. It is in a lovely location, nestled in among some mountains and hills, with the Cherokee National Forest practically out our back door. ;o) It is about 25 miles from Virginia's border, and even closer to North Carolina's border! It is in an area where there are annual festivals such as Highland Games, and Bluegrass singing fests, and historical re-enactments, and nature centers with educational events, and historical homes from when there was a state called Franklin there ... and more. It is in an area where there are hundreds of families who home educate their children! And it is in an area where we can get to at least 4 large cities, within about 2 hours' driving time. That last fact will enable our men to "gather in" the work they hope to work on, in the months to come. ;o)
And our children think it will be wonderful to be in a place where we can drive about 10 miles away and be camping at a large lake, surrounded by mountains, and down the road another 5 miles (?) is Roan Mountain, which is over 6,200 ft. above sea level. ;o) Roan Mtn. has an annual rhododendron festival we hope to go to -- with historical crafts, local artists, and many learning opportunities there, throughout the year. And ... if we decide to "holler," some day, the local folks will feel like we fit right in, I hope -- with "hollows" among the "rows" of mountains within a minute or two from where we will live. ;o)
We will live at or almost at the top of a hill, from photos we've seen -- quite a few. I'll be enjoyin' hanging our clothes out to dry, just waiting for a good, strong breeze to blow on them. ;o) We will be borrowing this place, for a while, ... and still lookin' around, for the next place where God may want to plant us, for a while.
We hope to find some folks who like to listen to regular folks singin' God-honoring songs in harmony, all eight of us, together. And maybe we'll find some college or high school students who like a good debate -- creation science? intelligent design? Mathematical principles and concepts inspired by God's Word ?!! -- yes! Medical discoveries inspired by God's Word ?!! -- yes! Inventions designed based on principles or descriptions shared by God in His Word ?! -- yes! Quotes that are commonly used in the United States of America ... originated in or were derived from God's Word ?!! -- yes! ... and more.
We hope to find some folks who want to lose weight, ... or just keep what they like, and get rid of "the rest." We hope to share some ideas other experts have made us aware of, to enhance energetic, and rejuvenated living. We will be listening for opportunities to teach women and young ladies how to prepare food so that it provides the maximum nutrition, per ounce -- that's called *nutrient dense.* Yum! We hope to share how to use "soaked grains," and "condiments" made in a new and fresher way, to enhance our bodies' ability to use what God originally designed grains and vegetables to nourish us with. I might even get to lead a ladies' cooking class, sharing some (or all) of these ideas, which were taught to me by Mrs. Eric (Nancy) Wesson and Mrs. Mike (Connie) Hale. They live in Texas. { oh well. ;o) }
We hope that, if anyone plans to get married in northeastern Tennessee, they might want to test us out, in taking photographs of them or during their wedding, ... or perhaps they would like us to make a video of their special event. This could also help those who are celebrating special wedding anniversaries, or having a special birthday celebration, or a very special dinner. ... we are open to other suggestions, within reason. ;o) (we will be glad to help with truly Christian-theme events)
If anyone has a need for someone to play piano for a special event, or for a wedding, or at a special restaurant, or ... Aaron is ready to help fill that need. If anyone has a need for specially-designed artwork and brochures for advertising their business, of any size, ... Elizabeth is ready to help fill that need. If anyone has a need for a lovely quilt, Amy is ready to help with that special gift.
If anyone has a need for a word quote (Scriptures from God's Holy Word, and any very-closely-related verse, with approval), Kathy is ready to help meet that need. You choose the frame. I'll write the quote. You choose either Old English lettering -- either more Gothic in lettering style or else more like book hand, or black-letter, style. Or you may wish to use my version of Chancery cursive, or Italic lettering, with either italicized (slanted to the right) or upright letters. Or you may wish to have your wedding envelopes hand-addressed, with a calligraphy pen or marker, for *that special touch* of "Love." We have two lettering styles we use, for that -- just ask. ;o)
And we will be ready to share DVDs and, in some cases, printed information we are now working on, real soon, for those who want to learn more about, and ask their pastor about Michael coming to speak about the *Life in the Bible Institute,* and what it is able to do, to enhance to and build upon what your pastor's ministry is already trying to achieve.
If you are interested in learning more about how to restore Faith in the Foundation of all Knowledge, contact us at our website (a link is below). Anyone wishing to donate to this IRS-approved, 501(c)-3 non-profit charitable organization, may inquire about it by visiting our website at: http://www.lifeinthebible.org We accept donations through PayPal, so it is quite easy. Any amount will help us "get the Word out!"
We do very much appreciate anyone who wishes to help us, in any way, especially by praying for us, for safety, protection, for provision, for wisdom and spiritual understanding, and for new friends who "might" be nearly as Godly, loving, kind, thoughtful and caring as you, our "best" friends have been to us all. We will miss everyone we've known in Texas, so dearly, that our eyes tear up, when we think of how we will miss you all so much. ;o( We do not take helpful kindness (in praying for us) lightly -- we ask God to richly bless you! And He is so rich in mercy, Love, kindness and help, that He will repay you, in His manifold, creative ways! He does it so well! Praise His Name!
Those who know me may email me at my usual email address. For others who know us but do not have my email address, please email us at: michael@utmost-way.com
We pack and leave our place here in TX on March 31. We unpack the moving truck there in TN on April 3. Please pray all goes well and that God's amazing provision, once again, comes through in time for every need. Having a full-time ministry does give us (all of you, too) plenty of opportunities to demonstrate to those around us, whether or not we truly DO trust God and obey His Word! ... and His Holy Spirit's promptings! (oh, stop it! conviction time!)
He is able! Nothing (!!) is too hard for Him! -- Jeremiah 32: 27
... God bless you all with His Strength for your day, his Love for your particular need and your healing of soul and body, and His Shalom Peace to surround you with the restfulness, health, and prospering in your soul that you desire, in the midst of any storms going on around you!
... in His agape Love .....
~ me ~ (K)
... trusting in His Faithfulness!
http://soulstirringmusic.wordpress.com
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Monday, January 28, 2008
New Ways our Lord is upholding us as we journey
The Lord upholds His children, as you all well know. ;o) He carries us along in His loving, everlasting Arms! He fights all our battles "for" us!
As you know, we have begun a ministry, full time, called Life in the Bible Institute. We still have "the vision" for that, as shared by Michael Dante, "the President." We are a non-profit (no kidding!), charitable organization, approved by the IRS, as a 501(c)-3 "teaching" ministry / charitable organization. We depend completely on God, to provide, uphold, enable and qualify us all, who contribute to this ministry.
The latest "news" is that, after we all gleaned what our understanding hearts could glean from "the President's" reading (this week) of the book _Prayer: Asking and Receiving_ by John R. Rice, and after we prayed specifically about some needs our family and ministry have, God proceeded to do three things:
1. He enabled us to believe, beyond sight, for the upcoming financial needs of this ministry and family, and He began the next morning providing, through one widow we know, a gift that has already helped us,
2. He then allowed us to meet another home educating family who, later that evening, called to ask if we could help them with a banner for the church where the dad is an associate pastor. We trust that that could provide some ... financially, though we can only arrange these banners through a local printer, who gets most of the benefit from us offering the service to design the banner on our computers, and then pass the "work" onto him.
3. The Lord then had a man at church who works as a contractor ... ask "the President" if he was available to help him do some remodeling work, in someone's residence, not far from where we live. We trust that that will also provide some ... financially.
We consider all of these God's provision, in a special way. Bills come due. God provides!
He is amazing! He is awesome! He fills us with "wonder!" He is truly The only One we need!
Hallelujah! Praise to His Holy Name! He always comes through, and when we pray specifically, He does mighty wonders that even the skeptics have to admit could only have been done by Him!
He is God Almighty! The Provider! The Protector! The All Sufficient Saviour! He is The Lord!
We are thanking Him for this new provision.
... one more:
4. The next morning, after all of that other stuff happened, a businessman called to ... see if he could "connect" *our President* with some companies that have "jobs" he can do from home.
We will see. We are already clearing out as much of our stuff as we can, to get ready for an upcoming move. We may soon live elsewhere. Stay tuned, for what God will do next.
He has given us an amazing amount of "financial backing," let's say, through gifts and donations from those who know us, in the area, over the past several months, especially in December... when it was needed most. I won't list each amount, or who gave us gifts and donations. But God has them all on His list! And He has some big rewards for those folks, because we happen to know that they gave like the Macedonian congregation (the believers) who gave sacrifically to Paul, to take their gifts to the poor believers living in Jerusalem, ... long, long ago. And God abundantly rewards those who give out of their lack of abundance! And they gave cheerfully, saying to us that God had prompted them to give.
The Lord likes us to give to those who are in need, and we must do that, even if we think we are in need. Right? He loves to provide extra, to each of us, just so we can do that. God is so good!
... keep looking down! ... from your position up in Heaven, since you are seated in Heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua (Jesus Christ)! Dr. Timothy M. Warner put that phrase in a book he wrote, along with Neil T. Anderson, entitled _The Beginner's Guide to Spiritual Warfare_. It is available through the ALERT bookstore, if anyone wants to read and learn from a copy of it. It's very helpful and enlightening. You may know of someone who is not as aware as you are, of "things" that come as a result of "spiritual warfare." If you do, please pass on the title of that book to them, so they can begin to learn more. They will thank you for it, later. And God will do the work in them that He may already be doing in you! Hallelujah! God is pleased, I believe, when we pass on to others the helpful advice or information we have been given, by others!
Let's share God! He is generous! He wants everyone to come to Him!
Have a super-great day, asking and receiving from our Heavenly Father, all that He has in mind for us to receive! Ask, seek, knock ....
... going back to asking now ......
As you know, we have begun a ministry, full time, called Life in the Bible Institute. We still have "the vision" for that, as shared by Michael Dante, "the President." We are a non-profit (no kidding!), charitable organization, approved by the IRS, as a 501(c)-3 "teaching" ministry / charitable organization. We depend completely on God, to provide, uphold, enable and qualify us all, who contribute to this ministry.
The latest "news" is that, after we all gleaned what our understanding hearts could glean from "the President's" reading (this week) of the book _Prayer: Asking and Receiving_ by John R. Rice, and after we prayed specifically about some needs our family and ministry have, God proceeded to do three things:
1. He enabled us to believe, beyond sight, for the upcoming financial needs of this ministry and family, and He began the next morning providing, through one widow we know, a gift that has already helped us,
2. He then allowed us to meet another home educating family who, later that evening, called to ask if we could help them with a banner for the church where the dad is an associate pastor. We trust that that could provide some ... financially, though we can only arrange these banners through a local printer, who gets most of the benefit from us offering the service to design the banner on our computers, and then pass the "work" onto him.
3. The Lord then had a man at church who works as a contractor ... ask "the President" if he was available to help him do some remodeling work, in someone's residence, not far from where we live. We trust that that will also provide some ... financially.
We consider all of these God's provision, in a special way. Bills come due. God provides!
He is amazing! He is awesome! He fills us with "wonder!" He is truly The only One we need!
Hallelujah! Praise to His Holy Name! He always comes through, and when we pray specifically, He does mighty wonders that even the skeptics have to admit could only have been done by Him!
He is God Almighty! The Provider! The Protector! The All Sufficient Saviour! He is The Lord!
We are thanking Him for this new provision.
... one more:
4. The next morning, after all of that other stuff happened, a businessman called to ... see if he could "connect" *our President* with some companies that have "jobs" he can do from home.
We will see. We are already clearing out as much of our stuff as we can, to get ready for an upcoming move. We may soon live elsewhere. Stay tuned, for what God will do next.
He has given us an amazing amount of "financial backing," let's say, through gifts and donations from those who know us, in the area, over the past several months, especially in December... when it was needed most. I won't list each amount, or who gave us gifts and donations. But God has them all on His list! And He has some big rewards for those folks, because we happen to know that they gave like the Macedonian congregation (the believers) who gave sacrifically to Paul, to take their gifts to the poor believers living in Jerusalem, ... long, long ago. And God abundantly rewards those who give out of their lack of abundance! And they gave cheerfully, saying to us that God had prompted them to give.
The Lord likes us to give to those who are in need, and we must do that, even if we think we are in need. Right? He loves to provide extra, to each of us, just so we can do that. God is so good!
... keep looking down! ... from your position up in Heaven, since you are seated in Heavenly places in Messiah Yeshua (Jesus Christ)! Dr. Timothy M. Warner put that phrase in a book he wrote, along with Neil T. Anderson, entitled _The Beginner's Guide to Spiritual Warfare_. It is available through the ALERT bookstore, if anyone wants to read and learn from a copy of it. It's very helpful and enlightening. You may know of someone who is not as aware as you are, of "things" that come as a result of "spiritual warfare." If you do, please pass on the title of that book to them, so they can begin to learn more. They will thank you for it, later. And God will do the work in them that He may already be doing in you! Hallelujah! God is pleased, I believe, when we pass on to others the helpful advice or information we have been given, by others!
Let's share God! He is generous! He wants everyone to come to Him!
Have a super-great day, asking and receiving from our Heavenly Father, all that He has in mind for us to receive! Ask, seek, knock ....
... going back to asking now ......
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Paul's letter to the Ephesians, chap. 3
Ephesians 3: 14 - 21
14 For this cause I bow my knees unto The Father
of our Lord Yeshua ha Meshiach,
15 of Whom the whole family in Heaven and earth is named,
16 That He would grant you, according to the riches of His
Glory, to be strengthened with Might (Greek, dunamis)
by His Spirit in the inner man;
17 That Messiah may dwell in your hearts by Faith (trusting
belief); that ye, being rooted and grounded in Love (Greek,
agape, God's unconditional Love based on His promise to
Abraham, in Genesis 12: 1-3, and Genesis 15: 1, 5-6 and
17: 1-2),
18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the
breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the Love of Messiah, which passeth
knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of
God.
20 Now unto Him Who is able to do exceeding abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to The Power (of
His Holy Spirit, the Ruach ha Kodesh) that worketh in us,
21 Unto Him be glory in the church (believers) by Messiah
Yeshua throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Letter to the believers at Ephesus:
Ephesians, chapter 4 ...
1 I, therefore, the prisoner of The Lord Adonai, beseech
you that ye walk (live) worthy of the vocation wherewith
ye are called,
2 With all lowliness (humility, depending completely on God
for everything) and meekness (yielded in attitude, letting
God be your strength, yielding all your rights, expectations,
plans and hopes to God, Who is due all things, and Who only
does you good at all times), with longsuffering (long-enduring
patience), forbearing one another in (Greek, agape) Love;
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of The Spirit (of God) in
the bond of (Shalom) Peace.
4 There is one body, and one Spirit (of the Lord), even as
ye are called in one Hope of your calling;
5 One Lord Adonai, one Faith (trusting belief in God
Almighty), one baptism,
6 One God and Father of all, Who is above all, and through
all, and in you all.
7 But unto every one of us is given Grace (which gives us
the desire and the power to do God's Will) according to
the measure of the Gift of Messiah.
8 Wherefore He saith, When he ascended up on High,
he led captivity captive, and gave Gifts unto men.
9 (Now that He ascended, what is it but that He also
descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
10 He that descended is the Same also that ascended
up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things.)
11 And He gave some, apostles, and some, prophets;
and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting (maturing) of the saints, for the
work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of
Messiah:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the Faith (trusting
belief), and of the Knowledge of The Son of God (Elohenu),
unto a perfect (mature) man (spiritually), unto the
measure of the stature of the fullness of Messiah:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to
and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine,
by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness (as shown
in Taoism, in Zen, in Hinduism or Buddhism, in Islam,
or animism, or the New Age movement,
or environmentalism or in "saving the earth," or in
queen of heaven worship (Sophia and other forms),
or in any false religion, most especially seen in
those who are involved in either Mormonism
{so-called followers of Jesus Christ ... but they
follow not the true Yeshua ha Meshiach!!}
and in Jehovah's Witnesses ... neither of whom "know"
the Lord on High, the true Lord Jehovah, the God
of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Who is God Almighty,
The Great I AM, The Ancient of Days!),
whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the Truth in Love, may grow up into
Him in all things, which is The Head, even Messiah:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together
and compacted by that which every joint supplieth,
according to the effectual working in the measure of
every part, maketh increase of the body unto the
edifying of itself in Love (Greek, agape).
....
14 For this cause I bow my knees unto The Father
of our Lord Yeshua ha Meshiach,
15 of Whom the whole family in Heaven and earth is named,
16 That He would grant you, according to the riches of His
Glory, to be strengthened with Might (Greek, dunamis)
by His Spirit in the inner man;
17 That Messiah may dwell in your hearts by Faith (trusting
belief); that ye, being rooted and grounded in Love (Greek,
agape, God's unconditional Love based on His promise to
Abraham, in Genesis 12: 1-3, and Genesis 15: 1, 5-6 and
17: 1-2),
18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the
breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the Love of Messiah, which passeth
knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of
God.
20 Now unto Him Who is able to do exceeding abundantly
above all that we ask or think, according to The Power (of
His Holy Spirit, the Ruach ha Kodesh) that worketh in us,
21 Unto Him be glory in the church (believers) by Messiah
Yeshua throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Letter to the believers at Ephesus:
Ephesians, chapter 4 ...
1 I, therefore, the prisoner of The Lord Adonai, beseech
you that ye walk (live) worthy of the vocation wherewith
ye are called,
2 With all lowliness (humility, depending completely on God
for everything) and meekness (yielded in attitude, letting
God be your strength, yielding all your rights, expectations,
plans and hopes to God, Who is due all things, and Who only
does you good at all times), with longsuffering (long-enduring
patience), forbearing one another in (Greek, agape) Love;
3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of The Spirit (of God) in
the bond of (Shalom) Peace.
4 There is one body, and one Spirit (of the Lord), even as
ye are called in one Hope of your calling;
5 One Lord Adonai, one Faith (trusting belief in God
Almighty), one baptism,
6 One God and Father of all, Who is above all, and through
all, and in you all.
7 But unto every one of us is given Grace (which gives us
the desire and the power to do God's Will) according to
the measure of the Gift of Messiah.
8 Wherefore He saith, When he ascended up on High,
he led captivity captive, and gave Gifts unto men.
9 (Now that He ascended, what is it but that He also
descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
10 He that descended is the Same also that ascended
up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things.)
11 And He gave some, apostles, and some, prophets;
and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting (maturing) of the saints, for the
work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of
Messiah:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the Faith (trusting
belief), and of the Knowledge of The Son of God (Elohenu),
unto a perfect (mature) man (spiritually), unto the
measure of the stature of the fullness of Messiah:
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to
and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine,
by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness (as shown
in Taoism, in Zen, in Hinduism or Buddhism, in Islam,
or animism, or the New Age movement,
or environmentalism or in "saving the earth," or in
queen of heaven worship (Sophia and other forms),
or in any false religion, most especially seen in
those who are involved in either Mormonism
{so-called followers of Jesus Christ ... but they
follow not the true Yeshua ha Meshiach!!}
and in Jehovah's Witnesses ... neither of whom "know"
the Lord on High, the true Lord Jehovah, the God
of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Who is God Almighty,
The Great I AM, The Ancient of Days!),
whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the Truth in Love, may grow up into
Him in all things, which is The Head, even Messiah:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together
and compacted by that which every joint supplieth,
according to the effectual working in the measure of
every part, maketh increase of the body unto the
edifying of itself in Love (Greek, agape).
....
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Warfare Prayer -- pray this !!
Warfare Prayer
( a very insightful and powerful prayer, taken from a tract printed and shared by Gospel Tract Society, Inc., P. O. Box 1118, Independence, Missouri 64051 )
Heavenly Father, I bow in worship and praise before You. I cover myself with The Blood of The Lord Adonai Messiah Yeshua (The Lord Jesus Christ) as my protection. I surrender myself completely and unreservedly in every area of my life to You. I take a stand against all the workings of Satan that would hinder me in my prayer life. I address myself only to The True and Living God and refuse any involvement (or interruption, or distraction) of Satan in my prayer.
Satan, I command you, in The Name (ha Shem) of The Lord (Adonai) Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah), to leave my presence with all your demons. I bring The Blood of The Lord (Adonai) Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah) between us.
Heavenly Father, I worship You and give You praise (!). I recognize that You are worthy to receive all glory and honor and praise. I renew my allegiance to You and pray that the blessed Holy Spirit would enable me in this time of prayer (to do Your will). I am thankful, Heavenly Father, that You have loved me from past eternity and that You sent The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) into the world to die as my substitute. I am thankful that The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) came as my representative and that through Him
You have completely forgiven me;
You have adopted me into Your familly;
You have assumed all responsibility for me;
You have given me eternal Life;
You have given me the perfect Righteousness of The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) so I am now justified.
I am thankful that in Him You have made me complete, and that You have offered Yourself to me to be my daily Help and Strength.
Heavenly Father, open my eyes that I might see how great You are and how complete Your provision is for this day. I am thankful that the victory The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) won for me on the Cross (the Roman execution stake) and in His Resurrection (from the dead) has been given to me and that i am seated with The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) in the heavenlies. I take my place with Him in the heavenlies and recognize by Faith (trusting belief) that all wicked spirits are subject to me in The Name of The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua). ( Hallelujah! )
I am thankful for the Armor You have provided. I put on the Girdle / Belt of Truth, the Breastplate of Righteousness, the Sandals of (my feet shod with) the preparation of the Gospel of Peace, and the Helmet of Salvation. I lift up the Shield of Faith (trusting belief) that is able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked / the enemy of God. And I take in my hand The Sword of The Spirit, the Word / Rhema of God. I choose to use Your Word (especially the special verse[s] You have made me aware of, in my reading of Your Word today) against all the forces of evil in my life. I put on this Armor (Your whole armor, Father God) and live and pray in complete dependence upon You, blessed Holy Spirit (Ruach ha Kodesh).
I am grateful, Heavenly Father, that The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) spoiled all principalities and powers and made a show of them openly and triumphed over them in Himself. I claim all that victory for my life today. I reject all the insinuations, and accusations, and the temptations of Satan. I affirm that the Word of God is true, and I choose to live today in The Light of God's Word. ... by Your Grace, dear Lord.
I choose, Heavenly Father, to live in obedience to You and in fellowship with Yourself. Open my eyes and show me the areas of my life that do not please You. Work in me to cleanse me from all ground that would give Satan a foothold against me. I do in every way stand into all that it means to be Your adopted child, and I welcome all the ministry of The Holy Spirit (Ruach ha Kodesh).
By faith (trusting belief) and in dependence upon You, I put off the fleshly works of the old man (my old self) and stand into all the victory of the crucifixion where The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua) provided cleansing from the old nature. I put on the new man (my new self, in Messiah Yeshua) and stand into all teh victory of the Resurrection and the provision He had made for me to live above sin.
Therefore, today I put off all forms of selfishness and put on the new nature with its agape Love (unconditional Love -- charity). I put off all forms of fear and put on the new nature with its courage. (boldness) I put off all forms of weakness and put on the new nature with its Strength. (the Joy of The Lord is my Strength!) I put off all forms of lust and put on the new nature with its Righteousness, purity and honesty. I am trusting You to show me how to make this practical in my daily life.
In every way I stand into the victory of the ascension and glorification of The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua), whereby all the principalities and powers were made subject to Him. ( Hallelujah! ) I claim my place in Christ (Messiah) as victorious with Him over all the enemies of my soul. Blessed Holy Spirit (Ruach ha Kodesh), I pray that You would fill me. Come into my life, break down every idol and cast out every foe.
I am thankful, Heavenly Father, for the expression of Your Will for my daily life as You have shown me in Your Word. I, therefore, claim all the Will of God for today. I am thankful that You have blessed me with all (every) spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Messiah Yeshua). ( Hallelujah! ) I am thankful that You ahve begotten me unto a living hope by the Resurrection of Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah) from the dead. I am thankful that You have made a provision so that today I can live filled with The Spirit of God with agape Love and His Joy and Shalom Peace, with longsuffering, gentleness and goodness, with meekness, faithfulness and self-control in my life. I recognize that this is Your Will for me and I therefore reject and resist all the endeavors of Satan and his wicked spirits to rob me of the Will of God. I refuse in this day to believe my feelings, and I hold up the Shield of Faith against all the accusations and distortion and insinuations that Satan would put into my mind. I claim the fullness of the Will of God for my life today.
In the Name (and through The Blood) of The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua), I completely surrender myself to You, Heavenly Father, as a living sacrifice. I choose not to be conformed to this world. I choose to be transformed by the renewing of my mind, and I pray that You would show me Your will and enable me (by Your Grace) to walk in all the fullness of Your Will today.
I am thankful, Heavenly Father, that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds, to the casting down of imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the Knowledge of God, and to bring every thought into obedience to The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Messiah Yeshua). Therefore, in my own life today I tear down the strongholds of Satan and smash the plans of Satan that have been formed against me. ha Shem Yeshua! I tear down the strongholds of Satan against my mind, and I surrender my mind to You, blessed Holy Spirit (Ruach ha Kodesh). I affirm, Heavenly Father, that You have not given me the spirit of fear, but of power and of Love and of a sound mind. ( Hallelujah! )
I break and smash the strongholds of Satan formed against my emotions today, and I give my emotions to You, Heavenly Father. I smash the strongholds of Satan formed against my will today. I give my will to You, Heavenly Father, and I choose to make the right decisions of Faith (trusting belief in Your Word). I smash the strongholds of Satan formed against my body today. I give my body to You, Heavenly Father, recognizing that I am Your temple, the temple of The Holy Spirit. I rejoice in Your mercy and goodness, Heavenly Father.
Heavenly Father, I pray that now and through this day You would strengthen and enlighten me, show me the way Satan is hindering and tempting and lying and distorting the Truth in my life. Enable me to be the kind of person that would please You, Heavenly Father. Enable me to be aggressive in prayer and faith. Enable me to be aggressive mentally, (to be alert to the schemes of the devil) to think about and practice Your Word, and to give You Your rightful place in my life.
Again, I cover myself with The Blood of The Lord Jesus Christ (Adonai Yeshua the Messiah), and pray that You, blessed Holy Spirit, would bring all the work of the Crucifixion (Messiah's substitutionary atoning death in my place, on "the tree"), all the work of the Resurrection (of Messiah Yeshua from the dead), all the work of the glorification, and all the work of Pentecost into my life today. ( Hallelujah! ) I surrender myself to You, Heavenly Father. I refuse to be discouraged. You are The God of all hope. You have proven Your Power by resurrecting Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah) from the dead, and I claim in every way this victory over all satanic forces in my life. I pray in The (mighty, humble, victorious) Name of The Lord Jesus Christ (Yeshua the Messiah, my Adonai) with thanksgiving. Amen.
-- (written by) Victor M. Matthews, and distributed by Gospel Tract Society, Inc., of Independence, Missouri
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