Merry Christmas! Tis the Season...

My nativity made by a precious British lady

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help [cometh] from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD [is] thy keeper: the LORD [is] thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. Psalm 121

Isn't this a wonderful Psalm? Look at all the fabulous promises from the Lord embedded in these scriptures--they are chock full of protection, provision, favor, and most importantly, love. Just think, all of this has been made available to us because of the Lord Jesus Christ and what He did for us on the cross. He left His place of glory with the heavenly Father and came down to earth in the form of a sinful man even though He never sinned. He was born as a baby and grew up like a normal Jewish boy, growing in favor with God and man. There was nothing spectacular about Him that would make anyone think He was Messiah - even His own parents couldn't imagine why, as a twelve-year-old boy, He would stay behind in Jerusalem after the Passover and debate scripture with the scribes and Pharisees. Prophets prohesized over Him as a baby, the angels heralded His birth, the wise men traveled far to pay Him homage, even King Herod sought to kill Him, but none of them really understood the purpose of His birth. The Bible says Mary pondered many of these things in her heart, but she couldn't discern their meaning, because they were spiritual truths that required revelation from the Holy Spirit.

And yet He was born, so that He could die and set all of us free from the bondage of the Law, sin, and death! Isaiah 9:6 says, For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. The heavenly Father GAVE Him to us as our savior, our wonderful counselor, our God who brings us into the Father's presence -- the one who brings us shalom peace -- meaning nothing missing or broken in our lives. Yes, His resurrection from the dead is essential and powerful, but His incarnation as the baby Jesus is an important day as well. It shouldn't be overlooked as a day to rejoice! He came and He will come again! 

Merry Christmas! May you have shalom peace during this Christmas Season! 

Keep Looking at the Birds...

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Matthew 6:26. 

Look at this beautiful cardinal - red as blood, wearing a high crown on his head, sitting fat and happy, not the least bit worried, even though it is cold and icy outside. And look at the abundant berries surrounding him - he has an excess of food available. 

Jesus tells us to look at the birds! They don't worry or work for their food, yet every day the Heavenly Father feeds them. Aren't you more precious to God than birds? This beautiful picture is a reminder that nature preaches the Gospel message to us every day, whether we realize it or not. All things point to Jesus!

All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  John 1:3

When Tragedy Strikes

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:54-57.

Today marks the second time this week that two of my children have truly felt the sting of death in their hearts. One was a much-loved teacher and the other a beloved father of a much-loved teammate. My children are now at the age where the injustice of precious life being so swiftly and unexpectedly snuffed out is felt in the core of one's being. How can this happen? their young minds ask. Why did this happen? How can a person be so alive one day, living life to the full, and the next day be gone to the next world without giving us the opportunity to say good-bye?

These are tough questions that have plagued all of us. All of us probably remember the first time the death of a friend or family member struck us to the core. The shock rocks our world and makes all of us realize we are standing on very shaky ground by living on this earth. Evil, sickness, disease, tragedy and death swirl around us and we never know if or when we will become the next victim. Fear descends on us and puts us in bondage. We look to blame someone, anyone, but many times there is no person to blame. Some will blame the enemy and his demonic forces, others will blame God, questioning His goodness and mercy. Some will even go so far as to say that God brought death as a form of divine plan. All of this leaves many of us terribly confused.

The first thing I told my children is what I would tell anyone who is trying to make sense of a tragedy: God did not do this. We are in the age of the church where John 3:16 is the Lord's mandate -- For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. God is out to save people not to kill them. In Ephesians 6:10-12, the Apostle Paul tells us to not be ignorant of the demonic forces at work in this world.  Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in highplaces. Many of the evil and tragic events that have occurred throughout history can be directly attributed to Satan and his demonic principalities. Right now, I'm thinking of the Holocaust and 9-11. We know demonic powers are real because the Bible talks about them in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.

"Okay, if that's true, then why didn't God intervene and stop the devil?" many people ask. "God is God - He's more powerful than Satan! He must not be very loving if He could stop a terrible thing from happening but doesn't!" These questions are the toughest to answer because the answer isn't obvious. I don't even attempt to answer this line of questioning, because I don't have the answer and am sure I never will -- not unless the Lord reveals it to me. And yet, I do have a response...

We do not know why God intervenes in some cases and not others. Certainly all of us have heard testimonies of healings, deliverances, escapes, rescues, inward unctions not to go into work on 9-11, and all sorts of supernatural stories where God is attributed as having intervened to save body and soul. And then there are the horrible, freakish tragedies that make no sense at all, leaving us wondering if there really is a God. BUT as believers in Jesus Christ, we are not called to understand, we are called to have faith and believe. This position goes against our flesh and mind, but it is in line with our reborn spirits. We have to renew our minds and believe what God's Word says, not what we experience in this world. We believe that, in spite of circumstances, God is still good, He loves us, and He is for us and not against us. We believe He is blessing us and will continue to bless us. We believe He has a wonderful plan for our lives -- all because of what His son, Jesus, did on the cross 2000 years ago. We believe His Word and the power of the Holy Spirit working in our lives and in the lives of others throughout the body of Christ. We believe in our savior, Jesus Christ of Nazareth. 

Where there is the darkness of death, there is the light of life in Christ Jesus. A day is coming soon and very soon, where death will be swallowed up in victory and the sting of its terrible separation will no longer be felt. We will have new, glorified bodies, and there will be a new heaven and new earth -- we who are in Him will experience an earthly peace, as well as the shalom peace in our hearts that He brings at the new birth. That will be a glorious day indeed!

But until then, keep believing! Don't try to figure everything out! Adhere to God's Word, follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, and believe in God's love for you. God is still good, He is still love, and Jesus still rules and reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords! Claim the promises of God in the Scriptures and stand firm in your authority In Him. Keep fighting the good fight of faith and don't shrink back in doubt and unbelief. None of us knows the future, other than what the Bible tells us in the Book of Revelation -- Satan is defeated and will one day be cast into the lake of fire. Jesus is victorious, and we who are alive In Him, will live with Him forever. That is a very good future, my friend!

Look at the Birds! The Brown Snake Eagle

“Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Matthew 6:26

Recently, I published a blog about a dream I had where a long line of birds was perched outside my back deck on a tree branch. I remember there was a large, brown, nondescript bird in the middle with fluffy feathers, and then many smaller, very colorful birds on either side, including a beautiful red headed woodpecker. http://neighborhoodbiblestudy.blogspot.com/2013/06/god-provides-look-at-birds.html

As I posted earlier, I knew the message was for me to meditate on Matthew 6:26 and believe for the Lord's abundant provision - especially when a huge and glorious Red-headed Pileated Woodpecker showed up on my back deck about a week later. It truly was the most amazing and magnificent bird I have ever seen.

Well, I continued to wonder about that nondescript brown bird with the fluffy feathers. He was larger than the others and was smack dab in the middle, and I got the sense he was the leader of the bunch. I thought maybe he was a picture of the Lord Jesus, but I couldn't be sure - I decided not to swim in any deeper waters than I was already in, and determined to just let it go.

So this past weekend, my parents came to visit and told us about an encounter they had while traveling in South Africa. While on a safari, they witnessed a Brown Snake Eagle eat a snake whole and even got a picture to prove it! The guide told them he had never seen anything like it! Don't know about you, but I've never even heard of a Snake Eagle!

My curiosity was peeked, so I did some research and immediately recognized this bird as the one in my dream. He is a bird of prey from Africa who feeds on snakes - crushing their heads and eating them all the way down to the tail! Immediately, I thought of Genesis 3:15 where God curses Satan: And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel. We all know that this prophecy was fulfilled at the cross. Jesus is the Seed of Woman who crushed the head of Satan when He took on all sin at His crucifixion (His heel was crushed/bruised on the cross).

I also learned that this bird eats venomous snakes by first secreting the poison from the fangs (deadly power is removed). The only time they are at risk is when attacking a cobra. Cobras are known to spit their venom, thereby blinding the eagle. When I read that, I immediately thought of the millions of us Christians with the authority and power of Christ to take down the snakes in our lives, and yet have been blinded by the enemy to this wonderful truth! But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31.

Well, how's that for a bible study straight from a nature class? I thank the Heavenly Father that He teaches us at night while we sleep, even in our dreams! He is always at work, leading us and guiding us and comforting us with the truth of His Word!

Wash the Dust Off Your Feet!

Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. John 13:10

And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: Genesis 3:14.

When Satan was cursed by God in the garden, he was ordered to eat dust all the days of his life. For a long time, I didn't really understand what that meant. Now, we all know that snakes crawl on their belly and do eat things from the ground, but there is a spiritual meaning to this curse God placed on the serpent as well. Jesus gave us a clue when He washed His disciples' feet before the Last Supper. He pronounced all of them clean (except Judas) but directed them to follow His example and wash each other's feet. What does this really mean?

Well, as we born-again/new creations IN Christ Jesus go about our lives on this earth, we will pick up some of the devil's "food" on our feet -- meaning this dust will attach itself to us, because we are still dwelling in these fleshly bodies which have not been regenerated. This spiritual dust has to be washed off spiritually by staying in God's Word and believing in His promises. God's Word is the spiritual bread that we are to live by--the spiritual food of grace and truth in Christ Jesus. 

The devil's dust or food is sin-focused, curse-focused, guilt-conscious, condemning, death-glorifying, and basically man-worshipping. It quickly adheres to us and will cling there until we wash it off spiritually through the Word, prayer, and worship. This washing is a daily discipline that is called the good fight of faith. 

What does this "washing" look like, exacting? It isn't doing good deeds for others (which isn't a bad thing!), but rather staying focused on who Christ is in our lives and what He has done for us. We are to meditate on our new position IN HIM and all the blessings that are associated with being born again. We are to feed on this manna from heaven.

Remember when Satan tempted Jesus and wanted Him to turn stones into bread and eat from that? Matthew 4:4. Jesus refused. He quoted God's Word from Deuteronomy, stating that "Man shall not live by bread alone BUT by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God!" Deut 8:3.  I believe those stones represented the law (10 commandments) and their reminder of sin, curse, death, and damnation--basically, the devil's food. Jesus warned us to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees--beware of those religious folks who pressure you to eat stony dust (where sin and the curse are the main ingredients) and not the fresh manna from heaven, which is the grace and truth of Jesus Christ. Whether these modern-day Pharisees realize it or not, they are doing the devil's work by turning your sights away from grace toward your short-comings, inadequacies and failures! Remember, Satan is the accuser!

Truth:  If you are born again, you now live under God's love and His perfect liberty IN Christ Jesus! James 1:25, 2:8. Anyone who walks in these two laws, knows he or she is clean, righteous and made pure by the precious blood of Jesus. He or she doesn't need a lot of "thou shall nots" to follow God's will. His or her newly reborn spirit will cry out "yes" and "Amen" to the Holy Spirit's leading and guidance. 

Don't let anyone rob you of the revelation of this wonderful truth! Wash Satan's dust off your feet every day by immersing yourself in God's Word--it doesn't take much. Even one little scripture will do the trick! Some of my favorites: Ps 23, Ps 91, Ps 112, John 3:16, all of John 17, Eph 1-2. And there are more! 

Dig into God's Word and wash your feet--every day!

Sin in the Flesh has been Condemned!

For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:3-4
Have you ever wondered why people who are born again still sin? If Jesus took all the sins of the world on Himself while He hung on the cross 2000 years ago, thereby achieving forgiveness for us once and for all, AND we have become new creations IN HIM, why are we still struggling with sin?

Well, one reason is because we are taught by well-meaning pastors and teachers that we are still sinners (although saved by grace) and that sinners sin. Actually this is not true. Being a sinner is a spiritual condition, not the result of a specific behavior. If you are born again In Christ, then your spiritual condition is one of a new creation and not a sinner. Yes, you were once a sinner and you have been saved by grace, but you are now new! This is your new and current/eternal spiritual condition - remember that!  To believe anything less than this leaves us with a guilt-ridden conscience causing us to wonder if we truly are forgiven and whether Jesus' work on the cross really is finished. Well, of course it is, because He has said so!

Now to the issue of sinful behavior: basically new creations in Christ still sin. God did not remove the sin nature in our flesh, instead, He condemned it in the body of Jesus. If the sin nature had been removed, there would be no reason to walk in faith, and faith is what pleases God. Hebrews 11:6.

So what does this mean that sin in the flesh was condemned by God? It means that sin in the flesh has been deprived of its power to condemn us and make us feel guilty. God condemned sin in the flesh, thereby depriving it of its power to keep us in bondage to guilt. When we do sin and that sin in the flesh attempts to accuse us, we have an advocate (Jesus) with the Father who intercedes for us and reminds us through the Holy Spirit that we are forgiven! We are convicted that we are righteous in Christ and no longer condemned. We are urged to hold on to a clear, clean conscience because of the work done on the cross. 

This is a novel idea - to walk around this earth constantly knowing we are forgiven and maintaining a clear, clean conscience before God and man! That is a miracle from Jesus! Can you imagine how wonderful our lives would be if we manifested this high and lofty revelation every day of our lives? The church would be much more powerful and would operate in a glorious, supernatural state that the world needs to see. Paul says in Romans that all of creation groans for the manifestation of the sons of God! Romans 8:19. 

So the next time you slip up and fall into sin, keep your eyes on Jesus and remember that the sin in your flesh has been condemned in the body of Jesus and now has no more power over you! Mediatate on that truth until it becomes a reality in your life !

Anointed Music from Darlene Zschech

Go to Darlene Zschech's website to hear anointed music that ministers to the soul. This is a wonderful gift the Heavenly Father has given the church! There are several songs you can listen to for free--all wonderful! My favorite is Victor's Crown. Absolutely from the throne of heaven! Be blessed! 

http://www.darlenezschech.com

A Beautiful Gift

Yesterday I received the most beautiful gift in the mail: a leather bound New Testament from Kenneth Copeland, KJV version. It was a gift given to his partners and is very unique because it includes over a hundred pages of bible study outlines and ALL of his margin notes, highlights, and biblical references! What a treasure!

I have learned so much from him over the years and feel like I've been able to snatch a book off his private book shelf. He is a bold man of God who believes for monumental things. I still find it hard to believe so many nasty things are said about him on the Internet, particularly by other professing Christians. But he doesn't let any of that stop him. He keeps on believing and preaching.

Thank you, Brother Copeland! I will cherish this always!

Soar with The Lord

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31 NIV.

Here is a word from the Lord I received today while praying and praising along with Hillsong this morning: "Lay down your own plans, flow with My Spirit, and you will soar with Me!"

As I thought about this word and reflected on it, I was reminded of Isaiah 40:31, one of my favorite Old Testament verses. I love imagining soaring in the air like a bald eagle, floating high above the cares and worries of this world and the fear tactics the enemy uses against us to lure us into doubting God's promises. At that high altitude, it is so much easier to bask in the Father's love and experience the shalom Peace of our Savior. 

As a bit of background, I will tell you how this word came to me. Several weeks ago, I had a very vivid dream where I was standing on a sandy beach with other people, wading in ankle deep water. The ocean was vast and calm, and I had plans to venture out further for a swim. But then suddenly, a very large, black horse emerged out of the waves, followed by a entire army of riders and warriors on dark horses that extended down the beach for as far as the eye could see--creating a barricade! We were all frightened out of our wits! But after a moment, I saw that these riders were really a dark, stony edifice of warring soldiers that one might see in a frieze on an old Greek temple or building. The point was, it was just a facade meant to scare me--and it worked! But only for a moment, because when I realized there was no real life in these riders, I said, "I'm not afraid of this!" As soon as these words left my lips, I woke up. 

Yes, it was a very strange dream but comforting as well. Here's what I received from it: Fear tactics from the enemy cannot master or rule over a believer who knows the Father's promises and the power and authority he has been given in the Name of Jesus! Later that day, I received more revelation as I thought more about the dream--in my mind's eye I saw the entire facade of riders melt down into the sea like wax! Psalms 112:10 says The wicked shall see [it], and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish. 

Basically, I believe what the Lord is saying is that these temptations to fear are simply roars by a toothless lion that are merely temporary. Therefore, don't give in to the lies and believe in these idle threats when they come! Keep your focus on Jesus and His Word and then the enemy will melt away.

So today as I prayed, I saw the Lord holding my hand as we soared high above the beach where those riders had stood. By laying down my own plans and desires and flowing with His spirit, I can then soar up high with Him, where I can see things from His perspective and not that of this fallen world. Praise God! Isn't that a wonderful gift He has given the church?  I have such peace knowing His Word is true and His promises are sure! He has all of His children firmly by the hand and will never let us go. 

My Father, which gave [them] me, is greater than all; and no [man] is able to pluck [them] out of my Father's hand. John 10:29

God's Protection in Troubled Times

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. Psalms 91:14-16.

All of Psalms 91 has been a comfort to me and my family over the years. There are many verses in this Psalms that I love, but lately, I have been drawn to the last two, especially during this day and times when wars and rumors of wars abound. As we remember 9/11 and the tragedies from the past, we are reminded by our president and the nations that future tragedies await the world. We even know this truth from reading Bible prophecy. And why is this part of the earth's future? Because the millennial/Messianic age is fast approaching, and the Lord is getting "His house in order," so to speak. Basically, a determination of who really believes and who doesn't is about to take place. Many of us don't truly know our own hearts or our strengths and weaknesses until they've been put to the test. When heat and the pressure of fear, pain, and worry come, we will either fall away and be consumed or we will bear up and believe God's promises in His Word, speaking them out of our mouths until we see manifestation. In these situations, our faith is growing and becoming strong. The Lord knows our heart, but sometimes it is good for us to see it for ourselves.

America, this time has come upon all of us. Church, now is the time to believe - truly believe and have no doubts - regarding the Holy Scriptures and what the Lord Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Abba has promised us in His Word. Claim the promises - they are yours! Lottery winners claim their prizes, employees claim their salaries, bonuses, and stock options, heirs and widows claim their inheritance. If all that is true (and it is), then Christian, claim what the Lord has given you through His death and resurrection! Don't let the enemy talk you out of what is yours! God has given you the blessing of Abraham which includes His Holy Spirit! Galatians 3:14. And what is the blessing of Abraham? It is God Himself. He is our shield, our exceeding great reward! Genesis 15:1. Selah! Think upon that!

If God be for us, then who can be against us? Romans 8:31.  Many of us believers will see great things done by the Lord in these last days, and it will be exciting! We will be a part of it all, and that will be a thrill! But some will not. Some will shrink back in fear and will not have the joy and pleasure of fulfilling their assignments and taking part in this last great ingathering of souls! If you are reading this, then don't shrink back in fear. Meditate on how much you are loved and fear will dissipate, for perfect love casts out fear! 1 John 4:18.

We have protection in the name of Jesus, deliverance, favor, blessings, and a long, satisfactory life in this Church Age. And then when He returns, the best that God has to offer will be waiting for us! What a glorious day that will be!

Ask Him! Even For the Small Things!

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring [it] to pass.

Psalms 37:4-5.

Recently, I have been reminded that my Heavenly Father desires for me to come to Him in prayer and ask for certain things that I know He has put on my heart, things like restored relationships, success and favor in business dealings (and in school and sports for my kids), and an increase in wisdom and creative ability to complete the projects He has inspired me to create. 

For some reason we forget to go to Him initially and ask for these simple things. If you are like me, there may be times we might worry or wrestle over particular matters and circumstances and then we suddenly realize, "Wait a minute! Why don't I just pray?" 

That's a very good question. The answer is very simple. Our focus has moved away from Jesus and is now on self. These reminders to pray are great opportunities to refocus and put our sights back on Him. Just yesterday, my daughter and I were discussing one of her friends, scratching our heads and trying to figure out what was going on in this person's life. Our first reaction was to worry and ponder and provide a man-made solution. Then we realized, let's pray for him! And we did. Very simple but very powerful.

Contrary to what some religious people espouse, the Lord is never too busy to hear our prayers, regardless of the magnitude of our request. Small things to us are important to Him, because He loves us and we are His children! Think about your own children--the small details to them are important to us as parents! Our Heavenly Father is the same--He wants us to come to Him, even for the small things in life that have become the desires of our heart. Success, favor, joy, peace, and happiness are what we all desire--and most importantly, love. 

Thankfully, all of these things were given to us at the cross 2000 years ago in His beloved son, Jesus!

Praise Him in the Midnight Hour!

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed. Acts16:25-26.

Are you going through a figurative midnight hour of your life? That would be a time when darkness surrounds you, perhaps the darkness of sickness and disease, depression, financial pressure or relationship issues. The darkness lies to you, telling you that light will never come and that the circumstances of the time will never improve. But as a son of Abba, father, we look to the Word and see that light always comes, and when it does, it dispels the darkness! Darkness must flee when the light comes. 

Think about the Apostle Paul and Silas in the Book of Acts. They were rebuked, publicly humiliated, beaten, and then thrown into a dark prison for preaching the Gospel - a freedom that we in the US take for granted today. And yet, at midnight, during the darkest time, instead of getting into fear and distress and crying in despair, they praised God and sang songs and hymns loudly so that the entire prison could hear them! That sounds counter intuitive to us! Why should God be praised when we, His children, are going through extreme trials - especially for preaching the Gospel of His son, Jesus?

I have to confess that I do not understand with my mind why or how this works, but when the Heavenly Father is praised, especially during our darkest times, suddenly and with great power, the bonds of depression and despair are loosed in our lives. It is a spiritual law. Yes, perhaps the circumstances may not be any different - at least not initially - but there will be a shalom peace in your heart that will come like a bright light and with it, a knowing that God loves you and that all will be well.

If you read further in Acts 16, you will find that the prison guard and his entire household were saved that night and then Paul and Silas were declared free men the next morning. Even though they were physically bound in that prison, they were not spiritually bound because they knew Jesus. Despite their circumstances, they knew they were free and praised Him for that truth. And then suddenly everything changed! There was a great shaking that loosed all of their bonds. Light came and they were set free.

Praise Him for all He is and for all He is doing in your life right now, especially if you are in a midnight hour. The circumstances may be less than ideal, but light is coming and the bonds will soon be loosed!

The Rise of the House Church

I wrote this in response to a nonbelieving family member intrigued by my position on "house church." I am finding that many believers trapped in denominational teaching are looking to TV, the Internet, and bible studies (aka house churches) for spiritual food. I'm very thankful the Lord has given us abundant technology in these last days so that we can know the truth and return to the Gospel which Paul preaches, the Gospel of Grace, which is the only Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

The Rise - or should I say Return - of the House Church.

There’s a look that comes across the face of a secular person who hears a Christian believer proclaim the power of God working in their lives. The eyes narrow and the jaw sets. The lips purse and the body language communicates skepticism, doubt, the audacity that one could profess God (if there really is one) would actually answer your prayer. “Who are you?” their eyes question. “You aren’t perfect. I know what you’ve done,” they say with their expression, which is nothing more than a long finger of judgment, accusing and condemning. I have seen it many times, their minds spinning at a frenzied whir, preparing their rebuttal to put you in your place with them and everyone else in the world who could never be assured God would even care.

As a Christian, I should expect such reaction from a nonbeliever, even though I’m never quite prepared for it. But what if the same reaction were true for the average religious person sitting in the pews of the mainline denominational churches in North America? Would it be surprising to the secular person to know that many professing Christians believe less in the power of God working in their lives than many nonbelievers do? That the secular belief in Big Bang or evolution (as the Smithsonian so aptly displays humans evolving from rats), is more ardently believed by atheists than the tenets of Christianity professed in the Gospels and the letters of the Apostle Paul are believed by the average church-goer? The average church-goer cannot articulate what they believe and why. The average church-goer scoffs and mocks many of the miracles proclaimed in the Old Testament and New Testament. They say such “stories” are embellished and sometimes fabricated, and at the very least, aren’t applicable in today’s times.

Essentially, they present Christianity as a joke and the secular world can see straight through the smoke and mirrors. "Where is the power, where are the miracles, where is this loving God, especially during times of tragedy and disaster?" the world asks again and again. Answer: passed away with the first century church, passed away with the first century church, ah… regarding that third question, we’re not sure.

So why on earth would anyone want to be part of this Sunday morning ritual when warm bedcovers, a hot cup of coffee, and the allure of the Internet is there waiting? For this Christian and her husband, enough was enough. After a long battle of "should we or shouldn’t we," we broke away from the denominational church and started our own house church, sitting under the teaching of a nondenominational pastor via TV and the Internet who lives in Singapore, of all places. We dress up, sing and pray, study the bible, discuss and share, and take communion just like we would at any other church. But there is a freedom in knowing we are amongst other people who truly believe God’s promises in the Bible. Yes, guilt knocks on the door of our hearts, telling us we are wrong and we ought to get back into the confines of bricks and mortar with a tall steeple over our heads and a licensed theologian wagging his bony finger at us, but we have resolved to stand firm and act in accordance with what others before us have done.

Unbeknownst to many believers, house church has been the mainstay of the body of Christ for centuries. The Apostle Paul in the New Testament refers to house churches, and in countries where there is much persecution, like China, the house church is essential. Even in mega churches in North America where thousands of members congregate on Sunday to hear a sermon, much of the real ministry happens in community groups and bible studies, which are essentially house churches where group leaders and bible study teachers serve as pastors.

And yet, for many religious Christians, there is nothing more horrifying than the notion of attending house church. To them, house church is dangerous, a sacrilege that might lead to error and heretical teaching. It doesn’t provide the comfort that stained glass and organ music provides, or in this day, the electric guitar and pop band performing on stage. I know, because when I invited several believing friends to attend our house church, you would have thought I had asked them to strip naked and prance across a stage. Now, if I had called it bible study or community group, perhaps I would’ve been more successful. Reckon I could do with some improvement in my marketing skills.

Nevertheless, with the strength of the Internet and technology, house churches are on the rise. Even in the Bible belt, brave souls are stepping out, inviting others to come to the comfort and safety of their home on Sunday morning to hear from and learn about God, apart from the confines of religion. And a new generation is responding. For a long time, they have questioned the authority of science and evolution and the religious belief of their parents, desiring to know a God who is real. Churchy rules, guilt and condemnation, and hell-fire preaching that remind us of our shortcomings don’t satisfy anymore. Who of us needs to be reminded of all our flaws? We know best where we fall short. No, this new generation wants something real, something that reflects the Jesus in the Gospels, a Jesus who is loving and powerful, yet approachable, a Jesus who cares and wants to show each of us His grand purpose for our lives.

All of us, whether we want to admit it or not, desire to know if there is a God of second chances, if there truly is a heavenly father who loves and forgives. Thankfully, where the denominations fall short in answering this question, the Bible is there, unchanged, its words providing comfort and solace if we dare to open its pages. The unconventional setting of a house church gives many the courage and opportunity to do just that.

You are Royalty!

The cover for my princess picture book

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 1 Peter 2:9  And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him [be] glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:6

With all the hullabaloo over the birth of the royal baby, it is a good time to take a step back and think about why mankind is so fascinated with royalty and the monarchy. In particular, why is it we Americans have such a great love for the British monarchy? And why is it Christian Americans are fascinated like the world? 

I'll admit, I followed Princess Diana like a hawk - especially when I lived in London. I fantasized meeting her at a coffee shop by chance, becoming her best friend and being a trusted confidant who would advise her on marital matters and lead her to Jesus. Alas, it wasn't meant to be, and she died tragically just a week before my birthday - we were the same age. She was the epitome of the pure, innocent, virgin girl who was swept up out of obscurity into a life of royalty by her dashing prince. Even though her marriage was a sham, the idea of it captivated our hearts.

Now we have Kate and Will at the helm and the allure of romantic royalty lives on - and this time we know their marriage is real! We follow her fashion style, her walks with Lupo in the park, her outings with her sister, Pippa. In fact, we find the princess/future queen more enticing than the prince/future king. What is it with this royalty fetish?

The answer is in the Bible! Royalty is biblical, since our savior Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, the seed of Abraham, the offspring of Woman, and the Messiah from the royal line of David. And the church is His bride, His queen, His body, destined to rule and reign with Him. We are the glorious church, trophies of His grace, evidence of the wonderful work He did on the cross. Yes the King is wondrous and glorious, but what of His beloved church? The New Testament tells us we are royalty, being both kings and priests in Him.

Eternal truth regarding the royalty of Jesus and His church is something the Holy Spirit gives witness to. Just look at little children. Have you ever seen a little girl who didn't want to be a princess? Even my tomboy donned a princess gown for a while before moving on to sports, etc. And my son was always wielding a sword and shield, fighting an enemy. It's part of the fabric of our being. But unfortunately, the enemy, religion, and the world do a very good job of beating us down so that we forget who we are, who we were meant to be. 

God our heavenly father has designed us and appointed us to be kings and priests now in this lifetime, at the moment we become born again in Jesus. Perhaps we don't live in a palace while here on earth and aren't followed by the paparazzi, but we are royalty nevertheless. Don't forget that, and don't let the enemy or religion steal this revelation from you!

Think like royalty, because you are part of the King of kings. The spirit of the King of kings lives inside of you!

Tommie Scott - A Great Testimony of a Changed Life!

Here is a great documentary that shows the power of God to change a hardened gangster from the streets of LA to a man fully sold out for The Lord Jesus Christ! I was touched by the power of his story. What an amazing transformation. This is what it's all about-there's not a bit of religion or complex theology, just pure faith based on God's wonderful grace! Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=CfjCkb9JCkI

Abba/Daddy is His name!

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. Romans 8:15  And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Galatians 4:6

Have you ever heard people discuss (or sometimes argue) over the appropriate name to call God? In the Old Testament, He is referred to as Elohim (the Creator), El Shaddai (the Almighty), El Elyon (the  Most High God), Yahweh/YHWH (the God of covenant), Adoni (Lord), and Hashem (the Name), to name a few. And then there are the eight redemptive names of Jehovah:

JEHOVAH-JIREH: the Lord our Provider

JEHOVAH-NISSI: the Lord our Banner

JEHOVAH-SHALOM: the Lord of perfect Peace

JEHOVAH-TSID-KENU: the Lord our Righteousness

JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH: the omnipresent One

JEHOVAH-SABAOTH: the Lord of Hosts, our Protector

JEHOVAH-RAAH: the Lord our Shepherd
JEHOVAH RAPHA: the Lord our Healer

All these names are wonderful and certainly describe our God, but if you look at the Gospels, you will find that Jesus came to reveal God by one name, and one name only, and that is Daddy, which is Abba in Hebrew. How do we know this? Because every time Jesus addressed God, He called Him Father or Abba, except while He hung on the cross as He took on the sins of mankind. Basically, Jesus came to usher in an age where God is now our Father, our Daddy. No longer is He distant or far away, separated from us by sin, but He is near us, His spirit is IN us, He is as close as a loving parent. Just as He is Jesus' Father, He is our Father. As much as He loves and provides for Jesus, He loves and provides for us. Read all of chapter 17 of the Book of John to get an idea of the love the Father has for us--Jesus prayed and thanked the Father for it before He went to the cross.

And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we [are].While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. John 17:11-12

Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and [to] my God, and your God. John 20:17

You'll also find the Apostle Paul explaining this very simple truth in his letters to the Romans and Galatians. The simplicity of the Gospel comes down to us believing we have a heavenly Daddy who loves us and is there for us. Unfortunately, many of us believers have a hard time accepting that truth because of wrong denominational teaching, the pressures of negative experiences, and the weaknesses in our relationships with our earthly fathers. All these facts create barriers to our faith so that we live weakened, defeated lives instead of walking in victory as God's sons! Remember, facts can change, but the truth never does! The truth is what the Bible declares and what the Holy Spirit gives witness to: God is now our Daddy!

So the next time a well-meaning Christian wants to debate you on the correct name to call God or the correct pronunciation of Yahweh, relieve him or her from their bondage and declare the good news that God is their heavenly Daddy!

Just as your children call you Daddy, call on your heavenly Father as Daddy! That's how He sees you--you are His beloved son!

God Provides -- Look at the Birds!

Redheaded Pileated Woodpecker
courtesy of Wikepedia

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?  Matthew 6:26

Have you ever considered how wonderful it is that the Lord has given us beautiful birds of the air as a reminder of His many blessings? Most of us take birds for granted and even get irritated when their chirping wakes us up at the bust of dawn. But they wake up singing and rejoicing! They don't worry about the cares of this world--they don't worry about provision--there are no works they are required to do in order to be blessed by the Heavenly Father. If this is true (and it is, because Jesus said so), then we shouldn't worry! Easier said than done!

The Lord knows we need constant reminders of His goodness, grace, provision, and protection, and nature provides that in many ways, one being birds. Just three weeks ago, I was somewhat worried about provision, and I had a very vivid dream which I can still recall now in all its detail. Yes, God speaks to His children in dreams--it's in the Old Testament and the New Testament. Peter, in Acts 2:17, tells us that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost was the fulfillment of prophecy from  Joel 2:28:  And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

Well, in this dream, I saw a line of beautiful, colorful birds sitting in a neat row on a tree right above my back deck, looking right at me. I remember distinctly there being a large brown bird in the middle with fluffy feathers, however the rest of the birds were very colorful. I remember pointing at a bird on the end and exclaiming, "Look at that redheaded woodpecker!" Then I woke up. 

Now, that may not sound like much of a dream to you, but I sensed it was a message from the  Lord, because I immediately thought of Matthew 6:26. I sensed those birds were communicating to me, saying, "Don't worry, see how we are fed and provided for? The Heavenly Father will provide for you too!" I was comforted by that dream but didn't think too much more about it--until today!

Our backyard is a haven for all sorts of birds. I just happened to be walking through the kitchen this afternoon and looked out the window to the back deck, and there on the deck railing (where the birds were in my dream), was the largest, most gigantic redheaded woodpecker I have ever seen! It hopped all along the rail for over a minute at least, and then flew away. When I looked it up on google, I discovered it is the Redheaded Pileated (meaning crest on head) Woodpecker. 

Why is this important? Because I believe it was a reminder from the Lord that He has provided for me and will continue to provide for me exceedingly and abundantly above all I can ask or think. He didn't send just any regular redheaded woodpecker (that has no crest on its head) no, He sent me a gigantic, crested, red-crowned woodpecker--the king of woodpeckers. It is no coincidence that yesterday and today have resulted in wonderful manifestations for my husband and me in the area of provision.

Be encouraged! Your Heavenly Father knows your needs, wants, and desires (for He put them there!), and He will provide for every one of them, exceedingly, abundantly above all you can ask or think. 

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

Keep Speaking to the Storms in Life!

 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.Mark 4:39 (KJV)

Recently, we had a night of monster thunder storms sweep through our area, blowing winds at over 60 mph with tornadoes interspersed as well. I was home alone when it hit and my husband was in the car with our youngest child, heading back to the house. Fortunately, the Lord had me listen to Brother Kenneth Copeland's teaching on speaking to the storms for over a week, so I was prepared and geared up to rebuke it and command peace in Jesus' name! I even had a dream several nights earlier where wild horses that looked like clouds were up in the sky, bucking and frolicking and stirring up the winds, creating all kinds of mischief. I remember looking up at them and telling them to have peace and be calm in the name of Jesus. 

As the community sirens blared, I went outside into my cul de sac and started praying, speaking to the winds and tornadoes and telling them to stay away from my property and my neighborhood. I told them to get back up into the skies where they belong and go their way! I don't know if my neighbors were watching, but who cares? Most people who know me say I'm a bit of a fanatic, but they sure benefit from the fanatic when disaster is staring them down! 

As I prayed and rebuked (I even prayed in tongues), I sensed this was a big, mean storm with destruction on its mind. I looked up at the skies and saw it coming my way-it was big and black and ugly and there was a tinge of red mixed in. I've never in my life seen red in a storm, but there it was. I stared it down like David staring down Goliath, pointing my finger and rebuking it like a mama bear protecting its young. The wind started howling, rain started coming, so I went back inside.

Long story short, there were many trees in our area that lost their lives that day and power lines that tumbled down too, but not around us! We came out unscathed-one old tree limb in the back yard and a few leaves in the front, but that was it! Our power was restored in an hour and life continued on. Later, we discovered that several neighborhoods very close to us were hit hard with many uprooted trees falling onto houses. 

As I was praying in the spirit in my living room, the Lord expressed His joy in seeing one of His sons of glory praying with authority in the name of Jesus. He loves everyone of those precious people who suffered damage, but until they come to understand the authority He has given the church in the name of Jesus AND until they learn to use that authority, they will be subject to the disasters of this world, just like nonbelievers. Sure, the Lord performs miracles and protects His people, but His best way is to follow the example of Jesus in Mark 11:23. 

For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

God's Angels Are Watching Over You! - My Testimony

Psalm 91:10–11
¹⁰No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; ¹¹for He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.

Joseph Prince's daily devotion for today is on Psalm 91 and how the Lord protects His children by commanding His angels to take charge over us and rescue us from calamities. Many of us have heard stories on TV about angels helping people during natural disasters, car wrecks, and the like, but many of us aren't given an opportunity to share our own stories with others. Well, I do have my own story, which is dramatic and spectacular, even though I did not see a physical angel or hear an angelic voice.

When my son was in second grade, he slammed his bicycle (going downhill at full speed) into a moving vehicle, flipped off the front of the bike, and bashed his head on the curb. I was not there when it happened, but there was one eye witness and several neighbors immediately on the scene, and they all thought he was dead. When I received the phone call and heard the sirens outside, I heard a voice in my head say, "I did not do this." I knew it was the Lord, because instantly this Scripture came to my memory: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]. Ephesians 6:11-12. I knew this was the work of the enemy and that I had to trust the Lord. 

As I raced to the scene, I was completely calm and had no fear. I thought of Abraham after he took his only beloved son up to Mount Moriah, preparing to sacrifice him to the Lord. According to the Book of Hebrews, By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son],Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:Accounting that God [was] able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. Hebrews 11:17-19. Like Abraham, I chose to believe that whatever I found - even if it was brains on the pavement  - that God could scoop those brains up, shove them inside my son's head, and make things right!

Long story short - the ambulance took us to the hospital with my son screaming (that sound was music to my ears!) and me praying to Jesus. An MRI revealed no concussion, but that he would have a nasty bruise on the left side of his face. We took him home, and after 24 hours, there was absolutely no bruise or swelling, and after 36 hours, he was on his feet (a bit wobbly), but ready to play. The accident happened on a Thursday. He could've gone to school on Monday, but I kept him home, because I wanted to stare at him all day - I had almost lost him, but the Lord had intervened!

There was no mark on his body or evidence of the accident, other than a tiny round abrasion on his right ear, smaller than a dime, and only one small spot of blood on his jacket. His clothes were not torn and his bike was still rideable. The next day, several neighbors called to tell me they had seen him out and about on his bike, riding without a helmet. Fortunately, I had obeyed the prompting of the Lord and had asked my son the day before the accident why his helmet was on the garage floor. "The strap is broken," was the response. 

And so I stayed up late Wednesday night threading the strap through the helmet and securing it to its place on his bike handle. He was wearing the helmet when the accident occurred. When I retrieved it later that afternoon, I saw a dent on the top that was large enough for two fingers to rest! We certainly would've had a different outcome had I not listen to the Lord's promptings!

The next morning, as he sat in the recliner resting, we watched a pastor on TV who taught on Psalm 91 and the protection of angels. This pastor told how he was divinely protected from a horrific car accident that should have taken his life, but he walked away without a scratch. My son and I looked at each other, and even as a youth of seven, he knew what I had come to realize: God's angels had protected him. The repaired helmet aside, he walked away a bit wobbly and tired, with only a small mark on his ear and one little spot of blood on his clothes. Everyone thought he was dead or brain damaged, but God had intervened and protected him. And what's even more wonderful is that Lord spoke to me during this time, bringing Scripture to memory, comforting me and ministering to me with their truths, giving me the faith to believe boldly and radically, and giving me the Shalom peace that all would be well.

I never shed a tear over the incident, because I knew Satan and the forces of darkness were watching me, seeing if they could get me in fear. Instead, I laughed. The enemy tried to inflict damage on us, but our faith in the Lord worked as a shield, protecting us from his deadly schemes. 

I don't know why some Christians have lost their children in similar situations and mine was delivered. All I can say is, continue to believe in God and His Word, despite the circumstances. Even if there are brains on the pavement, limbs dismembered, and even the pall of death that goes beyond the abilities of medical science, get radical about your faith in the Lord's protection and claim His promises. 

I didn't see those angels that day, but I know in my heart an angel was there and delivered my son. Perhaps he grabbed him by that place on the ear and cushioned his fall - I don't know, and I don't care. All I have to do is believe in God, have faith in His promises, declare them, and He does the work! 

Jesus, Our Manna from Heaven

And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness [there lay] a small round thing, [as] small as the hoar frost on the ground. And when the children of Israel saw [it], they said one to another, It [is] manna: for they wist not what it [was]. And Moses said unto them, This [is] the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat. And the house of Israel called the name thereof Manna: and it [was] like coriander seed, white; and the taste of it [was] like wafers [made] with honey. Exodus 16:14-15, 31.

I learned something today in my Bible study that I had never seen before in the Word of God. Of course, I am aware that Jesus is our Manna from Heaven, meaning our daily spiritual and earthly sustenance and provision, our very life, comes from Him and Him alone--which is why He tells us He is the bread that came down from Heaven. (John 6:41). However, I was not aware that when Manna was first introduced to Israel in the wilderness, it was pure white and tasted like wafers made with honey. I think of it being like miniature sweet cookies that melted in the mouth, giving all the sustenance needed for the day. No wonder medical science tells us that sweet is the first taste a baby recognizes and craves (and many of us never get over that craving!), because sweetness is a picture of Jesus.

But something happened later on in the wilderness that changed the color, texture, and taste of this Manna. In Numbers 11:4-9, the mixed multitude that had come out of Egypt with Israel began to lust over the things they had eaten while in Egypt. They grumbled and complained, saying "We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick: But now our soul [is] dried away: [there is] nothing at all, beside this manna, [before] our eyes." Numbers 11:5-6.

The sweet, honey-tasting Manna wasn't enough for them--the spiritual food of angels rained down from Heaven wasn't enough. They despised what God offered and desired the sustenance of the world--the rich, spicy, strong-tasting food of Egypt that the flesh craves. Immediately, we see that the description of the Manna changed. Numbers 11:7-8 says, And the manna [was] as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of bdellium. [And] the people went about, and gathered [it], and ground [it] in mills, or beat [it] in a mortar, and baked [it] in pans, and made cakes of it: and the taste of it was as the taste of fresh oil. 

Despite their grumbling, the Lord was merciful and continued to rain down Manna every day. But now the color was no longer white, but pearl-colored, and it was hard and had to be ground, beaten, and baked to be edible. And instead of tasting of honey, it tasted bland, like fresh oil. What does this mean? Why this change?

Well, I believe this is a picture of the church allowing the desires of the world into their hearts, convincing them that the sweet, honey-taste of their Savior isn't enough for all their needs. The church has been deceived into believing they must mix the world's spicy food into their palette, which ironically makes the Savior bland and tasteless. Basically, when God's people look to the world and lust after all it offers, the power of Jesus, the sweetness of His resurrection, seems to disappear and a mixture law/grace gospel is presented to the world. It is a gospel that says Jesus isn't enough and that what He did on the cross isn't sufficient to be right with God. It is a gospel that says we are still sinners even though we are born again, new creations in Christ Jesus--that we must grind, beat, bake, work, toil to receive anything from our heavenly Father, and then what we do receive from Him is devoid of power. It says we can't expect healing, prosperity, supernatural deliverance and miracles in our lives. It tells us that all this power passed away with the first century church. 

I say, "Nonsense!" I have had to repent and remove the lusts of the world and Egypt from my life, acknowledging that Jesus and His sweetness is enough to sustain me, day by day. The power of His resurrection is sufficient for me to do all things He calls me to do. The power of His resurrection says "Yes" and "Amen" to all His promises. (2 Corinthians 1:20).

As the Old Testament reveals, eventually a new generation of Israelites entered the promised land under Joshua's leadership and ate from the fat of the land. The Lord has no problem with any of His children eating from the fat of the land He gives them, but He wants us to acknowledge and remember that we enjoy this goodness only because of Jesus, our savior, our true Manna from Heaven, and all He has done for us. It is not because of any works on our part--it is all because of Him! 

Praise God for our Manna from Heaven! In that Manna is everything we need!

Praying Against the Storms in Life

Here is a great teaching from Brother Kenneth Copeland about declaring and praying God's Word in the name and authority of Jesus Christ, especially with all these crazy storms wreaking havoc on our nation. It's a great reminder of how the Kingdom of God operates. It's all about the works of the Heavenly Father done in the name of Jesus Christ. We need to have faith in God's Word, keep our eyes on it, meditate on its Truths, and declare those Truths out of our mouth.

Enjoy this teaching!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qr7Lmao51eM&feature=youtu.be&utm_campaign=KC-Partner-Letter&utm_content=20130523&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Emailvision

Rest in Me

This is a lovely poem written by my dear friend, which she received from the Lord while praying. I feel like this has come from the heart of King Solomon when he wrote Song of Songs - an intimate look at the Savior's passionate love for the church.

My Beautiful Bride,

You are the one that I love the most. I love you more than anything in the world.

I was there the day you were born. I suffered with you when you were so hurt. Things were spoken over you, and I mourned.

But when you found me, I rejoiced. My beautiful lover that was lost has been found!. I can finally take my bride home.

Your beauty overwhelms me -- creator of the universe bows to you in love. I have held you in my arms and danced with you, kissed you, been intimate with you, let you cry. I have gently placed my hand over your heart and healed it, restored it, and held it.

I have breathed my own creatures into your womb, of whom I love as much as I love you, and of whom I have great plans for.

My love, do not fret and do not fear. I am your guide, your strength, your protection, your provision. I am Lord and I am God. And you, my sweet bride, are mine. I ran to the cross for you - RAN.  My intense love for you wasn't satisfied until you were back in my embrace.

As I wrap my arms around you, do not look around, but look up to Me. I am all that you need and I am right here.

Nothing can separate us. Lean into my chest and believe that my love has done the work.

I am the everlasting God, and my work is complete.  Rest in Me.