Jesus came to lift from the backs of tired people the burden, trying to do everything right. The Spirit-filled life is not a formula; it is a relationship . . . a relationship with a Person -- the Holy Spirit.
If you examine what exactly religion is and what it does and doesn't do, you will see what Jesus saw. Clean on the outside, but inside full of corruption, and emptiness. Many religions, such as Mormons, Jehovah Witnesses, FLDS, Muslim, Jewish Pharisees, and many denominational Christian churches emphasize duty, devotion, commitment, "faithfulness"in order to succeed or be fruitful. They promote what I like to call "spiritual technologies.". . some steps to take. Just master the mechanics and the directions of what to do and your problems will be solved and you'll be fruitful.
Paul said he could boast of being a "Pharisee of all Pharisees!" He was very faithful in tithing, reading the Scriptures, praying, fasting, worshipping in the temple . . . "covering all the bases." But in all this "activity," in all this "devotion and duty," there was no fruit. In fact, he was a murderer and persecuter of Jesus' followers. The spirit behind religion, all religions. . . what drives it, I believe, is the spirit of anti-Christ. Religion is what tortured and killed the Lord of Glory. Legalists are provoked by the preaching of the cross. In Galatians, Paul states that "as the natural son (Ishmael) persecuted the spiritual son (Isaac), so it is today." He says in Galatians 4, "Have I now become your enemy because I continue to tell you the truth?" The truth that the way to live in freedom is by the Spirit through your faith?
Legalists get no closer to God and do not "achieve" God's fruit by "doing their best" or meeting some requirements of the religion. The basic tenet of this mindset is that confidence before God and rewards from God result from "piety and blameless ways." (Job 4:6) Titus 3:5, 6 -- He saved us NOT because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy." God deals with us today, not on the basis of our ways, works, or even behaviors/performance, but on the basis of His Grace, appropriatedby us through our personalfaith in Jesus' death on the cross and His resurrection Life and indwelling Spirit. True "spiritual warfare" and the actual battlepoint is this: It is easy for one to be self-righteous and believe that if life "seems to be working" for us, it is because we are "doing things right." The TRUTH is, it is Grace --- all Grace! Jesus does not give us a list of behaviors to perform or a catalog of answers; rather, HE GIVES US HIMSELF.
This leads me, then, to the question . . . THE FRUIT OF THE WHAT?
In these economic times, one may be tempted to believe, or hear, that God will take care of their needs (financial, emotional even physical) IF they tithe faithfully their 10% or beef up their offerings. You can watch testimony after testimony on the television (right before they ask you to join their ministry, of course) of people who made great financial "choices," giving their last dollar to the church and THEN . . .God paid all their bills off, or their failing business excelled, or their sicknesses went away. I don't doubt God did these things for them. But I do doubt that He did these things for them BECAUSE they did something first, because Salvation (eternal, financial, physical, emotional . . . ) is aGIFT AND A GIFT CANNOT BE EARNED.
Every spiritual first-grader knows that we cannot merit God's favor. God is not for sale to the highest bidder nor can we earn His favor by our own effort or works.
We cannot "buy" God's protection and help. If you give, or tithe, because you believe you'll earn a reward or out of fear that God won't take care of you. . . . this = legalism. It's the "If . . . then" vs "Yea and Amen" never-ending battle.
In any teaching or testimony, if your presented with the idea or notion that emphasizes success through YOUR tithe, offering, "seed money," great discipline and/or devotion . . . even success through YOUR great faith, it aims the glory at YOU. BUT, faith in God's grace and in the gift of His Righteousness and Divine Providence and Protection glorifies God, because A GIFT CANNOT BE BOUGHT OR EARNED; it can only be received. Our pride always wants to make this all about "us," but it's not.
I have Good News! Jesus fulfilled the Law and all the Old Testament promises, qualifications and requirements. And now, because "It is finished", all we can do is ASK! As a Believer in Christ, a Child of God, you are automatically covered. And Jesus said so many times and in so many ways through the Gospel (the Good News) that if we ask IN HIS NAME, it will be given to us. What child asks for a piece of bread and has to earn it first for his father to feed him? Or protect him? If we, who are evil, do not place these heavy yokes and requirements upon our own children, who are we to believe God is this way? How many times, in the midst of rebellion and doubt, has the Lord's loving kindness overwhelmed you. His undeserved mercy endures forever. And it's because of the mercy of God alone, that we have air to breathe. It's because of the mercy of God in His Son that we have such a RICH INHERITANCE! It's all been GIVEN TO US. All we "do" is believe.
Obeying the Holy Spirit, we give as led, out of joy because He let's us see who He is. If you have two coats and the Lord tells you to give one to someone who has none . . . WOW! how this glorifies Him. But we don't give the coat because we hope the Lord is watching and He will now take care of our needs. This is offensive to the Spirit of Grace.
You can't bribe God. During the time of Martin Luther, the Roman Catholic Church was notorious for its widespread practice of selling indulgences. The people were taught to believe that by giving to the church, they could obtain God's favor. Teaching that God gives special attention or favor because of anything YOU do, is false teaching. God is completely satisfied with Jesus and now, through Christ, we are highly favored.
This global financial crisis will hit the structured church as well. It may even re-shape it. It could tear down the many religious addends and do a major mega shift back to the early home churches of the New Testament. No longer will the tithe be required to maintain the building, pave a parking lot, pay salaries or sponsor missionaries. Re-structured, if every member of the church started their own neighborhood house church and became lighthouses for their neighborhood . . . the ten to 15 Believers gathering in each home could take a free-will collection and use it ALL on benevolence! "Church" and the church structure as we know it today may change too because of the crisis God is allowing on the earth.
When Paul addressed the stoic philosophers on Mars Hill and sought to describe the difference between the true God and their many idols, he told them this about God: "He gives to all life, breath, and all things" (Acts 17:25). What sets God apart from all other gods is that He is a Giver. What utter blasphemy, then, to suggest that God can be bribed to favor us by our giving to Him! Ministers who teach this "give-to-get" doctrine and TV hosts who invite them on their telethons need to heed the warning of the apostle James, "Let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment" (James 3:1). We have freedom to exhort teachers to be accountable, because many spoon-feed the sheep high toxic levels of legalsim. Better for a millstone to be tied around their necks, than to let even one of God's little ones' faith be damaged.
Please allow me to glorify this good news and the mercy of God a step further. . . Scripture and experience reveal to us all that God even takes care of the wicked . . . His Love is unconditional.
James 5:45 says, "for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust." He tells us to love our enemies and do good to those who hurt us because that's how He is. He sent His Son, WHILE WE WERE YET SINNERS. While we were in enmity and hostile toward God, he sent His one and only beloved and perfect Son to GIVE US THE KINGDOM AND ALL IT'S RICHES. How much more, now being justified, will He give us all things.
I guess what's on my heart is for His people to know the Good News, the Truth, and find relief . . . especially now during great economic trials and hardships. Your walk with the Lord, your faith, is intensely personal. Stay convinced that His love, salvation, provision, protection, His constant care of you is free because of Jesus. . . paid in full. Just ask Him. Don't come under any "doctrine of demons" and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Just give as the Holy Spirit directs, walk by faith, and remember that the only Christian "duty" assigned to us by Christ Himself is to LOVE.
Words from two hymns come to my heart regarding these times. . .
'TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS
Just to rest upon His promise,
O for grace to trust Him more!
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.
TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of earth,
Will grow strangely dim,
In the Light of His Glory and Grace!
Just recently I got to see the movie, "Slumdog Millionaire." I want to indulge in an allegory. . . . THE TRUTH IS, WE ARE ALL SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRES! WE ALL COME FROM THE SLUM OF OUR SIN AND SELF, FROM THE SLUM OF THIS FALLEN NATURE AND WORLD. BUT, WE'VE BEEN GIVEN THE ONE AND ONLY ANSWER! AND AT THE NAME OF JESUS, WE ARE ETERNAL MILLIONAIRES!
I want to share something the Lord showed me last night at a Believer's meeting. At this meeting, there were some who felt the need go to the "altar" . . . .
While witnessing this, first I saw a blanket of shame spread across their backs. And then, I saw the Lord Jesus ever so gently with great compassion, lifting that shame off of them. He was gathering the shame upon Himself. He removed their shame. And then He told me that He will tighten His grip (of grace) on each one of us. . . holding us up . . . He will keep us . . . and in our weaknesses, He gives His Strength. He will hold us up and prevent us from falling. He also told me that He is the One who covers our nakedness and our shame. He removes all shame.
I also saw a picture of the Lord's cupped hands together and everyone was in the palm of His Hands. And He told me that no one can snatch us from the Palm of His Hands. He promised the Father that He would never lose even one of us. He holds us dear to Himself.
This is Good News! And such a relief!
Sometimes, we get the "message" either from a word or from a teaching, or a book, that God is angry with us or disappointed with us. . .or that we are failing somehow. Most of the time we feel like we're constantly striving to GET INTO A ROOM, THAT WE ARE ALREADY "IN." :) This is why it is good for each one of us get to KNOW HIM better. Each of us must, individually, hear His Voice and Know His Character. Because then, when we hear those "sifting sand" messages, or prophecies, we can be secure in the knowing of His character. Sometimes He's misrepresented . . . sometimes He's outlandishly slandered and blasphemed. But if we remember that the Wisdom that comes from Above is full of Tender Mercies, then the fearful warnings and Mount Sinaii-type blasts will not shake us. (Hebrews 12:18-24 --"You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; to a trumpet blast . . .The sight was so terrifying that Moses said, "I am trembling with fear." But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in Heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus the Mediator of a New Covenant, and to the sprinkled Blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.) They will only remind us to Know the Lord ourself . . . personally. And in His Character, we are safe and sound. Jesus said He is the Perfect Representative of the Father. And actually, He's our Perfect Advocate and representative for us. :)
Psalm 103:10-14 says . . . God "does not punish us for all our sins; He does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For His unfailing love toward those who fear Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The Lord is like a Father to His children, tender and compassionate to those who fear Him. For he knows how weak we are; He remembers we are only dust."
FORGIVEN --
My Beloved One,
How can you be depressed by your own sinfulness when the
wonders and joys of My mercy are freely available?
Dear One, why be nailed by the enemy when the keys of My
unfettered grace can open every prison in your life?
Why be subject to the relentless condemnation of the evil one
when the love of the One Who is Almighty is yours to delight in?
Do you not know that the enemy is defeated?
Do you not appreciate that you are endlessly forgiven?
I am going to peel away this part of your life and expose the grace
that is freely available. I am not obsessed by sin, I have dealt
with it by judging Christ.
I am obsessed by you loving My grace, and experiencing the joy of
My Life within your heart.
You have always been forgiven. You must learn to forgive yourself.
Become as gracious as your God. Do not nail other people (even if
you legitimately can) but be endlessly forgiving. They who are
forgiven much also love much.
ENJOY FORGIVENESS; REVEL IN IT! I am not disillusioned with you for I
never had any illusions about you. :)
I have always understood who you are and the struggles you face.
Why would I not love you, since I Am Love Itself?
Love as one not condemned, but released.
Then take the key of My Grace, and unlock the prison door of as
many captives as you can find.
Forgiveness grows as it is employed.
(Graham Cooke)
God's GRACE! God's MERCY! God's LOVE! These mighty things have overcome our shame, washed away our guilt and brought us into a place of honour, accept it, allow it to wash you and cleanse you of feelings of shame and love Him, praise Him, serve Him! Stay hidden in Christ.
Walk in His acceptance of you. Accept His Acceptance! :) And do not serve Him motivated out of fear of punishment OR desire for reward. (Which is legalism.) We worship Him out of our gratitude and faith. He loves our faith. :) :)
I Samuel 16:7 says, "But God told Samuel, 'Looks aren't everything. Don't be impressed with his looks and stature. . . God judges persons differently than humans do. Men and women look at the face; God looks into the heart.'" -- The Message
I don't know what to say. To me, this is an unhappy day. My guess is, to alot of US citizens, who voted with moral consciences, it's not a day to celebrate either. I don't like the overindulgence regarding Barack Obama's outward appearance. I'm all for "Black American History." He will be, afterall, the first Bi-racial president. Black, White, Asian, Hispanic, Indian . . . .it should make no difference what the outward appearance and stature represent. What should matter is what is in the heart of the man . . .not the color of his skin, the articulate speeches, nor the great political promises for future prosperity and peace.
I fear what this man, and the people working behind this man, will do to unborn children, the sanctity of marriage, and the religious freedoms we now rest in. Tomorrow is the 36th anniversary for Roe v. Wade and newsarticles have suggested that on the second day of office, President Obama is planning on quickly reversing President Bush's pro-life policies. If he does, the door of murder will again be opened wide for international and domestic abortions and infanticides and we will be paying for this with our taxes. See this CNN article dated justyesterday . . . http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/19/obama.abortion/ for more details.
I will be watching and praying for Divine protection. Dear Lord, please keep us alert and far away from acquiesence. Keep us from passively accepting something, without necessarily consenting to it . . . compromising. Forgive us and keep us from wanting a "King," more than a God. . . for suppressing the Truth, worshipping the created more than the Creator and for betraying the multitude of innocent unborn . . . betraying them for pieces of "economic recovery," the god of money and self-preservation. . . betraying them for the sake of history.
Let us not trust in "chariots or horses," but remember and trust in the Name of our God. (Psalm 20:7) Let Jesus be our King!
I want to share this poem, written by Chief Justice of The Alabama Supreme Court, Judge Roy E. Moore, July 1998 entitled:
OUR AMERCIAN BIRTHRIGHT
One nation under God was their cry and declaration.
Upon the law of Nature's God they built a mighty Nation.
For unlike mankind before them who had walked upon this earthen sod,
These men would never question the Sovereignty of God.
That all men were "created" was "self-evident,"
To secure the rights God gave us was the role of government.
And if any form of government became destructive of this end,
It was their right, their duty, a new one to begin.
So with a firm reliance on Divine Providence for protection,
They pledged their sacred honor and sought His wise direction.
They lifted an appeal to God for all the world to see,
And declared their independence forever to be free.
I'am glad they're not here with us to see the mess we're in,
How we've given up our righteousness for a life of indulgent sin.
For when abortion isn't called murder and sodomy is deemed a right,
Then evil is now called good and darkness is now called light.
While truth and law were founded on the God of all Creation,
Man now, through law, denies the truth and call it "seperation."
No longer does man see a need for God when he's in full control,
For the only truth self-evident is the latest poll.
But with man as his own master we fail to count the cost,
Our precious freedoms vanish and our liberty is lost.
Children are told they can't pray and they teach them evolution.
When will they learn the fear of God is the only true solution.
Our schools have become battlegrounds while all across the land,
Christians shrug their shoulders afraid to take a stand.
According to a US Casualties report 4,156 humans lost their lives in Iraq in almost six years. Compare this to the daily total of over 3500 innocent lives lost to abortion and infanticide. There have been demonstrations and outrage galore over the war in the Middleast. . . . where are they for the war against the sanctity of life?
After watching the following video, I would hope everyone will agree with me in prayer for God's mercy and protection to be over the innocents who have no voice . . . .
Don't be impressed by the outward appearance and stature, don't be impressed by cheering crowds, elated news commentators, or image-printed coins. Don't be impressed by the outside appearance. But watch what is within. Pray, of course, and hope for the best alway, but don't "fall" for the illusion . . . stand for the Truth and let Jesus be your King!
Recently I received the following "devotional" thought and/or teaching from Rick Warren in my e-mail. And I have to address and protest it as a freedom writer and lover of the grace and good news of the Gospel. Here is what Rick Warren believes and teaches regarding individual spiritual growth:
Spiritual Growth Is Not a Private Matter by Rick Warren
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)
*** *** *** ***Some of us hesitate to commit ourselves to developing an intentional plan of growth that requires accountability or relationship with others because we believe spiritual growth is a personal and private matter. We choose to believe each person develops in his or her own way at his or her own rate. This is an aberration from the truth. The idolatry of individualism has influenced even the way we think about spiritual growth. So much of the teaching on spiritual formation is self-centered and self-focused without any reference to our relationship to other Christians. This is completely unbiblical and ignores much of the New Testament. The truth is that Christians need relationships to grow. We don’t grow in isolation from others. We develop in the context of fellowship. Over and over again in the New Testament we find this basic truth: Believers need relationships with each other to grow! Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another …” (NIV). God intends for us to grow up in a family.
This is what I believe and proclaim:
Rick Warren is modeling what the "Shepherding Movement" heretics tried to promote . . .only in a different "frame." Beware of false teaching. He took one scripture verse and says that anyone believing that spiritual growth is a private matter is aberrant and idolatrous. This is called "proof texting." Actually, the verse says "we are to motivate one another to good works" . . .not to growth.
In this false teaching he is usurping the Holy Spirit's job in each individual's life. Faith IS extremely personal. That is why we call it a "personal relationship with the Lord!"
Accountability, discipleship programs, putting man in the Holy Spirit's place is what's aberrant and idolatrous. We are making man and his get-better programs, his diagnosis and prognosis of our spiritual condition the "god" in our life, rather than the Lord. Instead of pointing one another to the Chief Shepherd, Jesus, we are pointing one another to a person or a program.
THE LORD IS OUR SHEPHERD AND WE SHALL NOT WANT . . . .
We grow in grace thru faith, not thru relationships. Accountability is only necessary in a church where there are big problems or decadent behavior.
Please consider this verse . . .I Corinthians 3:6 & 7 (AMP) says, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God [all the while] was making it grow and [He] gave the increase. 7So neither he who plants is anything nor he who waters, but [only] God Who makes it grow and become greater.
Relationship doesn't cause the growth. God causes the growth. He gives the increase and the measure in His timing and He is the Producer of the fruit (60 fold, 100 fold) . . . we just "bear" it.
Actually, we should have relationships not only within our our own church, but within other churches lest we become exclusive and elitists.
But the subject of church growth is another subject altogether . . . .
In the end, I need to quote again Dave Johnson, author of "The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse": TRUE SHEPHERDS POINT TO THE CHIEF SHEPHERD. Here's a simple rule of thumb I've learned recently for discerning teaching: The actual source of all teaching and doctrine is revealed in whom it glorifies. In other words, teaching that emphasizes success through YOUR great discipline or even success through YOUR great faith also tends to aim the glory at YOU. Thus, it is frequently true that faith in faith glorifies your faith, and faith in self-discipline glorifies your self-discipline. BUT faith in God's grace and in the gift of His righteousness glorifies God, because A GIFT CANNOT BE BOUGHT OR EARNED; it can only be received."
Rick Warren, in this case, is pointing to relationships and assembling with one another as your source of growth . . . he fails to point to the Truth -- Jesus Christ -- as our Source of growth. And Jesus, our Shepherd, uses whatever vehicle He decides for our growth. It may be relationships . . . it may be isolation (as with the apostle John on the island of Patmos). He is our Source for growth. . . . nothing else.
Rick Warren is making up a false spiritual "requirement" outside of the work and performance of Christ. . . emphasizing man's work and performance.
Growth is a GIFT FROM GOD. This is the Good News! Relationships are important for growth, but it must be voluntary, not prescribed. Otherwise, it becomes a heavy yoke, a "work" of the flesh. We can have relationship with one another thru the internet, thru groups on-line, Bible studies, going to the movies, within our own family units, etc., our work places, telephone calls. God uses every one and everthing for our individual growth.
And emphasizing "success" and/or growth thru relationships is aiming the glory at us, . . . not at God WHO GIVES THE GROWTH. Then we can boast that WE are causing our own growth thru our attendance and thru our activities within the assembly of members. We begin to believe and proclaim to ourselves and one another that WE ARE THE SOURCE OF OUR OWN GROWTH. And this also sets up the judging of one another. Those who aren't as "committed" to those who are "committed" by showing up all the time. This, to me, is the aberrant and idolatrous belief. This is religion. This is legalism. And it's toxic to growth. Legalism kills. Liberty gives life. As a recovering legalist, I can testify to this.
It's good to "revelate" and protest when we don't agree or believe something a teacher . . .even a well-known teacher, tries to send out to the Body.
Frankly, I believe that "WE" are the church, not some building. That WE are the temple of the Holy Spirit, not a certain room or building. But that, again, is another discussion. :) :) Take care and Believe the Good News! His Yoke is easy and His burden is light. Hallelujah!
So . . . .God may have you stay in bed with your spouse and have some "fellowship" or have a great breakfast and fun with your children on some Sundays. So, don't come under the bondage or religious burden of having to have to go to church in order to be a "good" or "growing" Christian." Be free . . . and don't come under any condemnation or petty religious yokes. God is with you and in you and you can even have "church" at home with your family! It's fun! Go to your local church or visit another church as you are LED OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. Be at peace. Jesus is Lord! :)
The "Golden Globe" awards were on TV last night. I'm a sucker for these shows. I know, I know . . . . "vanity, oh vanity." But, before we get all "religious" let's consider all in the light of His Grace. He loves everyone in Hollywood. God sent His Son to them as well. They are not the enemy and celebrities can be wonderful witnesses for Jesus! I appreciate good acting and I have a wonderful Friend and Guide, the Holy Spirit, Who is very efficient in guiding me through this world while not being "of the world." As I "watch" and pray :) , the Holy Spirit gives me great prayers and compassionate thoughts of hope for each and every one. This is part of the fun!
I didn't get to watch last night's show, but I did utilize the "DVR" and I'm looking forward to watching and fast-forwarding all the commercials tonight with Doug. :) So . . . don't tell me who won! I am having a hard time as it is avoiding news and talk shows so that it won't be spoiled for me. However, I LOVE to tell all Who the ultimate "winner" is!
I just want to share with you what the Holy Spirit communicated to me yesterday morning. I saw a man standing on a stage with the same type of envelopes the awards shows use. The man said as he was opening the envelope . . . "And the Winner is . . ." He then opened and read, "JESUS!" :)
This is, of course, the Good News! Jesus IS the Winna Man! He Won! It is Finished. And, in Christ, we win too!
It's a BINGO! moment all the time with Jesus!
He has run and won the race for us. He shares His prize with us. In Jesus, we all get to hold our "golden globes" as overcomers! We get crowns to cast at His feet We get to eat of the Tree of Life in Paradise. We get to eat of the hidden manna and we get a new name written on a white stone. We get to rule nations and we get the morning star! How's that for a prize! We get to wear garments of white and be pillars in His house and sit on His throne. Revelations tells us all this. If we stay fully convinced of the Good News, relying on His performance alone, He leads us to be Overcomers and Winners!
John 16:33, Jesus says, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” And I thank God, that abiding in Jesus . . . resting in Him . . . makes me an overcomer, too! Jesus IS the Winna Man!
Good intentions . . . .to right the wrongs . . . . change habits . . . .
The truth is, we can NEVER walk it out right on our own. To try . . .to even think that we can . . .is lethal, and "smelly" and we fall from the Grace of God.
Today, the Lord showed me a picture of a "Flounder." (the fish) And He said to me, those who attempt to resolute themselves to Me in their flesh (in their own strength) will flounder --"
Now the definition of flounder is: to flap, splash through mire, flounce . . . . To fling the limbs and body, as in making efforts to move; to struggle, as a horse in the mire, or as a fish on land; to roll, toss, and tumble; to flounce.
HOWEVER! The GOOD NEWS IS: He has sent us a HELPER, the precious Holy Spirit. Who gives us His fruit and His liberty from the flesh by faith, thru grace. The "just" shall live by faith (Galatians 3:11)
Jesus said it was "expedient" that He went Home to the Father, because then the Helper could come and freely change us from glory to glory . . . without our own striving . . . by faith alone. Why is it we forget and neglect the One Who is here now. . . the Holy Spirit. He is God. Jesus paid a high price for the Holy Spirit to come and indwell believers. In the Old Testiment, when our Holy God was on top of the mountain and told Moses NOT to let the people or even their animals touch that mountain or they would die . . .is because He's holy and we're not. On our own, we can never be holy. But, because of the Blood of Jesus, because of His perfect life lived here and His redeeming sacrifice that same Holy Spirit that was dangerous and even deadly for us to go near, can now reside within us when we are born again. Then, it is Christ IN you living thru the power of the Holy Spirit that changes you from the inside out.
In the book of Acts, the believers were told to wait until the Holy Spirit came upon them to empower them to witness and preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We can do nothing without the Holy Spirit's help. He gives us the personal power (fruit) to live the Christian life, He gives us the ministering power to proclaim liberty to the captives AND He gives us the power to do signs and wonders . . . miracles. These supernatural acts of God, the greater works Christ said Believers would do, are our tools and implements for the building up of the Body of Christ and for the unbeliever to come to Christ. Jesus said, some won't believe except they see miracles. And God knows each individual heart and what needs to be done and said in order to deliver salvation to them. We NEED the Holy Spirit . . . the Helper!
Jesus' whole life here was lived in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gave Jesus the ability from His birth (the incarnation) to the miracles and deliverances and healings, to His Death (Hebrew 9:14) and Resurrection.
Who changed Peter? He really "floundered." Who changed him from a fearful, intimidated man into the bold, passionate man on Pentecost? The Holy Spirit. Even after living with Jesus for three years, Peter fearfully denied Christ . . . BUT after the Holy Spirit came upon him, he was a NEW CREATURE from within. No resoluting or committing can ever do this work.
Jeremiah 13:23 says, "23 Can an Ethiopian change the color of his skin? Can a leopard take away its spots? Neither can you start doing good, for you have always done evil."
But herein lies the Good News as presented by Matthew Henry, commentator: "We cannot alter the natural colour of the skin; and so is it morally impossible to reclaim and reform these people. Sin is the blackness of the soul; it is the discolouring of it; we were shapen in it, so that we cannot get clear of it by any power of our own. But Almighty grace is able to change the Ethiopian's skin.Neither natural depravity, nor strong habits of sin, form an obstacle to the working of God, the new-creating Spirit. The Lord asks of Jerusalem, whether she is determined not be made clean. If any poor slave of sin feels that he could as soon change his nature as master his headstrong lusts, let him not despair; for things impossible to men are possible with God. Let us then seek help from Him who is mighty to save."
This leads me back to the "flounder" the Lord showed me today. We will struggle, we will flounder, we will be stuck in the mire whenever we attempt to remove our own "spots" or blemishes. NOW, by the power of the precious Holy Spirit, as we believe in His ability, we can and will become THE KING'S SALMON! Able to leap and swim against great obstacles, able to miraculously fly in beauty and freedom and "multiplication" . . .some thirty-fold, some sixty, and some 100 fold! to the Glory and Honor of God. Here's an encouraging video of a salmon who is supernaturally going against all odds because the Creator has given him the ability . . . .
NOW . . ."The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all." (2 Cor. 13:14)
A 15 year old boy from Great Britain produced that video. I'm hoping he'll make more. The lyrics are outstanding and had to be included in my entry for the New Year. In Christ alone!
Last night the Lord gave me a vision for the coming year. I saw a picture of a seeing-eye dog. A German Shepherd seeing-eye dog with it's working harness on. And I heard the Lord say, "I can see everything clearly for you."
I saw bumps, or ridges, in the road ahead, but the Lord reassured me that He can see past those bumps in the road and He sees everything clearly. I can only see so far and maybe a little of what's right in front of me. But He sees it all. So He told me to "take hold" of the harness and let Him guide me. "This world can get pretty dark, but I see all things clearly and I will lead you and guide you safely just where I want you to be. Just hang on and rely on to My lead." He will protect, guide and keep me as I trust in Him. That's a good and comforting Word. And He is the Good Shepherd, my Shepherd. :)
This world will be getting darker, but Jesus is the Light of the world. Once, He showed me a picture of a "night light." And He said to me: "When the torrents of ungodliness surround you, look up to Me and I will be your Night Light." Torrents of ungodliness . . . . the definition for torrents is: A turbulent, swift-flowing stream. A heavy downpour; a deluge. A heavy, uncontrolled outpouring: as in, a torrent of insults, etc.
So, my Word from the Lord for 2009 would be to keep my eyes on Him, the Light of the World. To take hold of Him and rely upon Him completely. . . in Christ alone, that Solid Rock.
A friend and sister in the Lord (Kathie Walters http://www.kathiewaltersministry.com/) shared a vision she had had of Christ and I have her permission to reprint it . . . . I want to look at Jesus more in 2009.
"I was thinking this morning about where my real TREASURE IS - Well here it is to share with you: print it out and take some time to read over it, it's worth it. It's the best message on the internet.
In New England, when I was speaking at a Women's conference - I had a vision of Jesus - He was running toward us with His arms outstretched - then I started to speak and this came tumbling out of my mouth:
'Jesus is altogether lovely. He saves us and keeps us by His power, from sin and death. He has given to us His Robe of Righteousness.
He extends his mercy, longsuffering, loving kindness, tenderness, healing, compassion. He is our Shield, our Defender, our Rock, our Hiding Place. He is our Provider, Counselor, Great Shepherd, our Friend Who is closer than a brother, our Love. He is the Husbandman, the Keeper of the vineyard. He is the Source of all blessing.
He restores, rescues, forgives and redeems. He is our Victor, the Captain of hosts. He is our Banner, and our Standard, mighty in battle, He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Jesus is crowned with glory and honor. He is our Savior, Sanctifier, Redeemer, merciful and faithful High Priest.
He is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. He was dead, but now He is ALIVE forevermore and He is seated at the right Hand of God (seated - it's finished). He destroyed death, and led captivity captive. He is the great Apostle of our faith. He is the Supreme Sacrifice, the spotless and blameless Lamb.
He is our Anchor, our Strong Tower, our Shield, our Defender, and He was the Ancient of Days before the first day began. He is the Forerunner, the Firstborn among many brethren. He is the surety of a better testament and He comes from the unchangeable priesthood.
He is able to save to the uttermost.
His presence doesn't cast any shadow because He is the light that lights the Heavenly City. He is the Light of the world. and the Giver of life. He is the Door, the Way and the Truth. He is the Treasure, the Pearl of great price, more precious than the finest gold.
He was the Rock of Ages before any mountain peaks were formed. He was the Bread of Life before there was any grain. He was the Lily of the Valley before there were any flowers on the earth. He is the Eternal Intercessor and He is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, higher than the heavens.
He makes His enemies His footstool and laughs at His adversaries. He came from eternal glory to the depths of humiliation. He abdicated heavens throne for a pile of straw in a manger. He sacrificed infinite riches to embrace poverty. He bade farewell to Heaven's love to receive men's hatred and shame. He surrendered Heaven's adoration to suffer scorn, and He turned from celestial bliss and life with cherubims and seraphim to die between two thieves on a cross.
He is the Tree of life. He is consecrated for ever and makes us sanctified forever by His Precious Blood. He is the Minister of the Sanctuary. He is the Mediator the New covenant. He is the High Priest of GOOD THINGS to come. He's the Lion of Judah, and the Lamb, slain. He is the New and living Way.
He was born contrary to the laws of birth. He lived contrary to the laws of life. He healed, contrary to he laws of medicine. He was tried and condemned contrary to the laws of justice and He arose, contrary to the laws of death and the grave. He ascended, contrary to the laws of gravity and He is coming back againcontrary to the expectation of the world.
He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is the Great Shepherd of ALL THE SHEEP HE IS THE HOLDER OF THE KEYS. HE IS THE AMEN. HE IS THE FINAL WORD... He is qualified to open the Book.
He is the expression of the heart of the Father. His love has no limits. His grace has no measure. His power has no boundaries known unto men. Out of His infinite riches, He gives and gives and gives again. He is our nearest Kinsman, and is qualified to redeem us. He is THE WORD MADE FLESH, the Honey in the rock. He is high and lifted up. He is the Lily of the valley, the Bright and Morning Star, the Fairest of 10,000. He is more precious than gold. He's the glory and lifter of our heads. He is the Righteous Judge.
He is a Refuge for the oppressed. He doesn't forget the cry of the humble. He bore our sorrows and our griefs. He was despised and rejected of men and now He controls the destiny of the nations-The kingdoms of this world are going to become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and for ever. He is our portion and our Inheritance. His garments smell of sweet myrrh and His breath is as sweet as apples. He is a very present help in trouble. He hides us under the shadow His wings, and keeps us as the apple of His eye. He is our high tower.
He makes the hills shake, the mountains melt, the heavens bow. He pulled back the curtain of eternity and stepped out on the stage of time for one brief moment, and then stepped back again into eternity, but in that one bridge moment of time He sealed the fate of every man and fixed the destiny of every man and woman. He will light my candle because He is the light of life. He is the Branch, and the Root of Jesse. HE IS THE GREAT WAVE-MAKER FROM GALILEE. He makes the crooked paths straight and the rough places plain.
He split history, and divided the ages.
He is the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. He is the Baptizer in the Holy Ghost. He preserves the faithful. He is the Resurrection and the Life. He spoke and framed the world. He makes our way perfect and makes our feet like hinds feet. He causes us to walk in high places.
He is able to comfort, guide and bless. He spoke and the heavens unrolled themselves and the galaxies were born. He spoke and the streams and rivers wound their way across the earth. The rose began to blush, and the violets cast their fragrance, and the birds began to sing. Colors wove themselves into a rainbow. He spoke and a handful of dust became a living soul. He turns our mourning into dancing and, girds us with gladness.
Let me tell you about His Voice. His Voice is powerful upon the waters, full of majesty, like thunder, it breaks the cedars, divides the flames, shakes the wilderness, makes the hinds to calve, discovers the forests, sets the mountains in their place. It stills the seas. His Voice shook the earth and melted the hills. His Voice is as the sound of many waters. He spoke and calmed the storm. He spoke and gave life to the dead, brought healing to the sick, strength to the weak, and forgiveness to the sinner.
Herod could not kill him. The Pharisees could not confound him. Satan could not trick Him. Sickness could not withstand him. Devils could not stay near Him. The waves could not drown Him. The rabble could not disturb Him. Death could not corrupt Him. Hell could not keep Him. The grave could not contain Him. Gravitation could not restrain Him and God has highly exalted Him and given Him a Name above every name and at His Name, every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that He is Lord of all.
He led captivity captive and gave gifts to men. He brought a stream out of a rock, and fed the people in the wilderness. He fed 5000 with two loaves and a few fishes. He is Savior to the lost. Healing to the sick. He is hearing to the deaf and sight to the blind. He is cleansing to the leper, and strength to the weak. He is comfort to the oppressed, hope to the hopeless and help to the helpless.
He is a Brother to the friendless and a Friend to the brotherless and He is LIFE to the dead.
He is infinite, eternal, glorious and full of majesty. One day in His courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. Wouldn't you rather be a doorkeeper in His house than dwell in the tents of the world..? He is the Covenant Keeper keeping- covenant with covenant breakers. He is sweeter than all the flowers. He is the Lover of our soul and the Keeper of our hearts. He is music to the poet, and a song to the worshiper. His Name has been whispered by thousands upon thousands of dying soldiers on the battlefields of the ages. His Name has been the battle cry of those who fought for righteousness and truth. HE IS THE KING OF ALL KINGS AND ALL RULERS AND EVERY NATION WILL BOW TO HIM, HIS NAME IS JESUS....'"
MAY OUR VISION BE JESUS IN 2009 AND FOR ALL ETERNITY! AMEN! He is our "seeing-eye" Good Shepherd and our Bright and Eternal "night Light!"
