Saturday, February 28, 2015
Pastor's notes---02/28/2015
Don't get frustrated!
Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Praying Revelation knowledge.
I want to share some insights on the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation. First, have you ever talked to a Brother/Sister that is in error? Have you ever felt like you are getting nowhere? It can be a frustrating experience. Sometimes, passions get out of hand and before you know it, you are saying something that you will regret later on.
My friends, you can have scriptures ready and tear down arguments but if the brother/sister does not have a revelation, it will little or nothing at all. Take for example, the church at Ephesus. The apostle Paul had his hands full there. He left Priscilla and Aquila to start a church. What was the keys to Paul's success?
The first thing Paul and his team did was share the Baptism of the Holy Ghost.
Did you know that the church of Ephesus, which grew and impacted that area during that time had its issues? It took Paul and his team more than two years. It was during that time that Paul "rolled over his sleeves" and started teaching the word on a daily basis. Why? Because he had opposition. Mixture was coming in and confusing the people. (Acts 19:8-9)
Beloved, it is not wrong to confront and debate. We should do this but in the midst of this, we should add wisdom and understanding. The apostle Paul knew that to be successful, he had to get to the root of the problem. He sought the Holy Spirit for direction and prayed what is known as the prayer of Ephesians. (Eph 1:17-23, 3:14-21)
This is a powerful prayer. You can pray it over yourself daily as many times as you want. You can pray it before a Bible study. You can, also, pray it over others. When you confront a brother/sister who is in error and are not getting through, don't send them to the "pit of hell" and give up on them. Pray that prayer over them and watch God move!
Notice, Paul did not give up on the Ephesian church but prayed this prayer daily. What was the results? Things started to happen. Secret sins got exposed and mixture was dealt with. As a result of this---God's power got loosed on that church and town. The power of repentance came upon them because their eyes were opened. (Acts 19: 11-20)
Do we have mixture in the church? Yes. We may have some mixture inside that we are, not, aware of. Friends, pray the prayer of the Ephesians. Make it yours in prayer. Pray over it for your brethren, Church and Pastors. Before you know it, God will move in an amazing way for his glory. I have, personally, prepared that prayer in which you can pray this for yourself and others in the link provided below. God bless!
Ephesian prayers---http://bit.ly/1Bqholl
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Pastor's thoughts----02/26/2015
http://bit.ly/182aiqZ
" Not by might, not by power...."
That word came to my heart today as I pondered what to share. Lately, there has been a lot of talk concerning ISIS. Fears are abounding in this country especially at the prospect of ISIS invading Rome and advancing their cause. The main poster boy for this turmoil is Jihadi John, who has beheaded many on video. Recently, there is talk that he has been identified. Many are scratching their heads wondering if this is so, why have they not captured him so that they can bring him to justice?
Many of you reading this blog will find it hard in your heart to not love him. In fact, if hatred arises within you, it is easy to reason it away. From a Christian perspective, God's word says that he has no delight in the death of the wicked. (Eze 33:11)
God loves Jihadi John and many like him because they are blind and need deliverance. The apostle Paul was such a person. He would deceive Christians, then he would arrest them and sentence them to death. In fact, Paul calls himself the chief of sinners. (I Tim 1:15)
As bad as we find these acts of burning and beheading, Paul says that he is the chief of sinners. So, if God can take one as Paul, turn him around for his glory and complete a good part of the New Testament through his letters, can you imagine what God can do if he gets a hold of Jihadi John and ISIS? My challenge to you as a Christian is to learn how to walk in love, pray for these and others like him who are doing these terrible acts.
Spiritual warfare is incredible. We have just, barely, scratched the tip of the surface concerning prayer. In the 80's, there was talk that we were going to see a nuclear war with Russia. What happened? Russia's economy went under and things started to happen. Religious freedom started to open up in that land and their satellite countries. Dictators were judged and God's word spread like wildfire. Why? Christians were doing battle in their prayer closet.
Many would disagree with me but I really believe that World War II was won by prayer. The Germans had a well organized war machine and many battles were being lost in Africa and other important strategic places. It wasn't until the prayers of grandmothers and mothers who sent their loved ones to war began to turn the tide and gave the allies victory. You don't mess with a grandmother who knows how to pray!
Friends, everyday, I am amazed at what prayers can do. Prayer is, just, more than talking to God. It prepares you for war in the spiritual realm. They can bless you in your health and finances but one thing we miss is the true meaning of our inheritance. Yes, finances and healing is a part of it but the major focal point is souls. In Psalms 2, the Father told Jesus--Ask and I will give you the heathen for your inheritance. (Ps 2:8) That means souls. If we are co-heirs with Jesus, we have the same right to ask God for souls!
Does that mean that everyone will be saved? No, unfortunately, some will be so hardened that they will die and split hell wide open.Yet,we can fine tune our prayers and believe God for souls especially when it comes to our family and seed. I will discuss more on this at a later time.
My focus for now is to address prayer in this war with ISIS. I will begin to lift up Jihadi John and all who are deceived. Join with me and believe for a road to Damacus conversion for them. This day, put your problems aside and take some time to pray these people into the kingdom. Remember, they are your inheritance! God bless.
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Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Pastor's notes----02/25/15
http://bit.ly/17yAr0I---See note below (1)
Questions about God!
In life, When Christians share their faith, there is always the question--If God exists, why do we have evil rampant around the world? Recently, I read an article in which Larry King expressed unbelief in God. Two statements that he said was the Holocaust and why does a baby die. I am not a "know it all", but I can search for answers through the word. The word says---We have the mind of Christ. Christ has been made unto us wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to answer questions and solve problems. Before we proceed, let's get one thing straight. I like Larry King. I don't agree with some of his points of views but I find his talk show interesting, and,at times,entertaining.
To be fair, he had some legitimate questions. He questioned God for the evil that has been happening in the world. Why would a loving and all-knowing God allow evil. Well, if I had the opportunity to talk to Mr. King, I would invite him to be born-again. Without a born-again experience, what I have to say from the word of God would be gibberish and he would have a hard time understanding it. (I Cor 2:14)
Notwithstanding, I would give it a shot and show him where it all began, It began in the garden of Eden. Adam was given this world by God (Ps 115:16) God entrusted Adam with the care of this world. We, all know, what happened. Adam bowed his knees unto Satan with his disobedience and what was garden of Eden became a fallen world under the control of Satan,
Furthermore, Satan blinded men through sin that they could not come to God, Sin opens the door to disaster. Let's start with the Holocaust. Concerning the Holocaust, let me take you thousands of years back when the Jews said that the blood of Jesus be upon themselves and children as a curse. (Matt 27:25) Mr. King, God did not have anything to do with the Holocaust. The Jews,in their hatred of the Lord Jesus, pronounced a curse that would haunt them for centuries,
Concerning the fact that God would allow a baby to die. The word says that my people die for lack of knowledge.(Hosea 4:6) The answer to that is in the word. When people pray and follow the laws of faith, miracles happen. God, also, has a plan for his people--- the Jews. When God took Ezekiel and gave him a vision of the future, he took him to a valley of dry bones.
Why dry bones? Because God knew in his wisdom that his people would pronounce a curse upon themselves, So, he spoke his word in these dry bones and created a miracle. His people became the nation of Israel. (Eze 37:1-14) So, if that is not cause for you, Mr, King, to believe in God, I don't know what it will take.
Jesus is the answer to every problem and need. Jesus became the second and last Adam so that we can enjoy God's best on earth and be assured of our salvation. (I Cor 15:44-47, Deut 11:21) God had to respect man's decision to give this earth to Satan through free will. So, in his wisdom, God became a man through Jesus Christ to open the door to Salvation.
Yes, we will have problems. Problems are a fact of life, but the good news is that we can find the answers we need by having a born-again experience and studying his word. I pray that maybe this blog will find itself in your hands, Mr.King, and you will find God in your life before it is too late. To those who are born again, let us pray that Mr.King and others like him find out that God is real and loves them all.
Link---http://www.charismanews.com/opinion/watchman-on-the-wall/48466-atheist-larry-king-needs-a-prophetic-word-from-god-right-now
(1) Permission was granted with the request to let all know that the copyright holder Angela George neither endorses nor agrees with the point of view listed above.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Pastor's notes---02/24/2015
A door from heaven is here--Will you open that door today?
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Days of Heaven on Earth
Many Christians think that the Christian life is a hard one, filled with tribulations and problems with no end. While I do not want to diminish the fact that we will face difficulties and challenges, we need to see the other side of the coin. Yes, we know that the more we get closer to God, the more the enemy fights us. Sad to say, we sound like we have more confidence in the devil than God. We need to rejoice in what God has done for us through Christ.
Yes, friends, the devil is real. He is out to steal the word from our hearts and strike us with many afflictions but God has the last word. He knows the end from the beginning and he says that we are more than conquerors--Case closed! ( Rom 8:37) You can enjoy God's rest from problems, get refreshed and move on to the next trial, knowing that we can have victory in Christ.
Everywhere I go, I hear talks of pessimism on how America is going down the drain. God has to show us, time after time, that if we pray, we can see results.Who can remember the famous Y2K episode? I know many well-known ministries who were selling food for the end times. Many were prophesying that we were going to go through hard times. What happened? The year 2,000 came and we survived--Praise God! Back in the 60's, there was talk of America going down. What happened? We had a tremendous move of God among the hippies and now some are preaching the gospel. We, as a body, need to stop being influenced by fear and moved more by the faith of God.
The word commands us to pray for our leaders. Why? That it may be quiet and peaceful with us! That shows me that we can influence the decisions that our leaders make through prayer. God does not want his word hindered and he will remove those in power who do so. (Ps 105:14) The realm of prayer is so powerful that it can change the course of destiny in a person or nation. So, stop fearing. Start seeking the Lord in prayer so that we can pray for our nation and loved ones.
I will end with one of my favorite verses. In Deut 11:21, God wants us to sample heaven. I like to go to the supermarkets, especially when they are giving free food samples. I get a sample of what's to come if I buy the product. We can sample a little of heaven to make our day and you know what? It is free! We can see our days multiplied and have fun in the process. Life does not have to be all doom and gloom. We can rejoice in our toughest trial because in the end, we knows who wins. Glory to God, you are a winner and it is time to act like one. God bless.
Prayer--Heavenly Father, Thank you for your word. Teach me more about prayer. Forgive me for fearing and worrying about the future. Teach me to pray for those in authority. Teach me how to pray for this nation and my loved ones. Thank you, Lord, because I am the head and not the tail. I am more than a conqueror and I am sampling heaven in my life today because I am your child, In Jesus name, Amen.
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God bless.
Monday, February 23, 2015
Pastor's notes----02/23/2015
The Enemy within
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I know what you are thinking when you see this picture above---Satan! Beloved, that is not who I am talking about. That picture should have your face in there. Why? Because what I am talking about is your flesh. We need to put things in proper perspective. Many Christians blame their sinful acts on the devil. In fact, a popular comedian invented the phrase--The devil made me do it.
The fact of the matter is the devil is not forcing anyone to sin. Yes, the devil tempts us and works on our mind, but the true enemy is our flesh. I remember years ago, there was a Sci-Fi series called Star Trek. They had one great particular episode entitled--The enemy within. Captain Kirk was on a mission and he got zapped with a transponder and it split him up into two beings--One good and the other bad,
The episode became interesting in that the evil twin started to cause confusion and tried to harm the people on the Star ship. Finally, the episode ends with the transponder ray restoring the two into one and we have a happy ending. The same is with us. When we do not renew the mind daily, the effects of sin takes over. Soon, before you know it the fleshly nature kicks in and we start acting carnal.
Friend, The flesh, in itself, is not bad. It is just its sinful nature. You can subjugate the enemy (Flesh) into doing God's will. The fact of the matter is simply this, when we got baptized in water, we buried the sinful fleshly nature. ( Col 2:12-13) Again, the problem is the unrenewed mind. It's effects will set the "Transponder rays of sin" into effect resurrecting the fleshly nature. We need to let the spirit man take control so that the flesh can merge into one under the dominion of Christ.
Consider this verse---"But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" (Heb 5:14) You can train your flesh to obey God's word, bury its sinful nature and have victory in your life. A one-time deal will not do. This has to be a daily walk with the Lord. That is why it is important to develop the mind of Christ in your life. The word Christ mean yoke breaking, burden removing power and it is in your mind, but you got to allow it to operate within you! (Phil 2:5) So, in this day, decide that you will allow the power of Christ to work inside of your mind. Take every thought captive and nip it in the bud, for then, you will enjoy God's best for your life.
Prayer---Father God, thank you for speaking to me. Forgive me for being carnal-minded. In this day, I allow the mind of Christ to work in me. I declare that the old man is buried by baptism and that I walk in newness of life. I take every thought that is contrary to your word captive. I command my mind, desires, will and emotion to be in line with your word. I have the mind of Christ. His yoke breaking, burden removing power is in me and I walk in victory today! In Jesus name--Amen!
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Pastor's notes---Feb 22, 2015
Your life is your garden
"But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die." (Gen 2:17)
When you read the accounts of Gen, you find an interesting analogy-YOUR LIFE IS YOUR GARDEN! Life is full of decisions that we must make and the results can affect your family,life,etc. Some decisions are hard to make. Sometimes, our emotions can get in the way.
The question to ask ourselves is this-Why would God not allow Adam and Eve to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? Why would God, not, allow Adam to eat something good? We know that God was protecting Adam from evil! He had all the knowledge he needed and it was all good. He and Eve did not have to know evil!
One thing to consider-This tree wasn't evil in itself. God was showing a principle thing-Tithing! He said to Adam, you can eat of all the trees, but this one belongs to me. God's intention was for Adam to sow the seeds that were inside the fruit of the tree, so that he can abound in provision. The same concept was with Joshua. After Joshua and the Jews crossed the Red sea, God put them to the test. In their first battle, God wanted the silver and the gold for himself. They were not to touch it, but you know what happened with Achan? Achan took of the forbidden items and paid a high price-He and his family were stoned!!
God's intention was to bless his people. He wanted the first fruits from battle, that is why this was so serious before the eyes of God. It is amazing how people downplay giving especially when it comes to the tithe. The tithe is a lot more important than you think. It cost Adam to lose the presence of God and his paradise. It affected God's people in battle when Achan disobeyed God and took of the silver and gold.
When you disobey God in the tithes and offerings, it could affect your family and even cost loss of lives as in the case of Achan. It can affect your generations for years to come. That is why Satan works overtime to deceive the people of God and cause them to lose their blessing. Concerning the tree of good and evil, let's talk about the forbidden tree being good. There are reasonings in our mind on what is good. In fact, people who are not believers, do some good and help others in need.
For example, let's look at Alcoholics Anonymous. It is a good organization and has done some good works but their patients are trained to say---I am an alcoholic. They credit a higher being and go on from there. Yes, there has been some wonderful results but that is not enough. Jesus can break the chains of alcoholism and make you lose your craving for it forever. When God delivers you, you are a new creation.
Doing good works is good but if it is being done from a carnal mindset and not centered in Jesus, it is in vain. That is "eating" from the tree of good and evil. My righteousness or yours is not enough to gain heaven. God's word says that our righteousness is as filthy rags. (Isa 64:6) We need a righteousness above ours. Through Salvation in Christ and his finished work at Calvary, he gives us his righteousness in Christ Jesus-Praise God!
Finally, lets talk about the tree of life! Did you know as a believer that you have access to the tree of life? You may ask-Where? In your tongue! (Prov 15:4) If you are bound and defeated, you can speak life to your situation! If you are in financial lack and are a tither/giver, you can speak life to your finances! If you are sick and in pain, you can speak healing to your body! Take advantage of your privileges in Christ. Start eating of the tree of life. Remember, your life is your garden!
Dear Lord, Thank you for speaking to me. I receive your word for today.Help me to be sensitive to your word and give as you direct me. Help me to die to human reasoning and not eat of the tree of good and evil. Today, I will eat of the tree of life. I declare the mind of Christ in my life. I say that he has become wisdom for me. I walk in victory because my tongue is a tree of life. In Jesus name--Amen!
Scripture reading-Joshua 7
Friday, February 20, 2015
Pastor's post----Feb 21, 2015
Wisdom is the key.
Are you confused by life in general? Are problems mounting up so that you can't think straight? Well, today I have GOOD NEWS! GOD has not forgotten you. Many times, we think that all our problems can be solved by money or good health. We start to write God's promises on our notebooks and quote them all day long. There is nothing wrong with that, but sometimes, that, alone is not the answer! We tend to put God in a box with a 10 steps program or fancy methods that can leave us frustrated or discouraged. What worked for a brother/sister will not necessarily work for you!
I am, not, against how to develop faith in simple steps or any methods of any sort. They have their place! Truth be told, they have helped me understand faith and bring success to my life, but brethren, there is a place in which God gets us into a deeper revelation. When we are faced with our giants, you better not be caught using another man's armor. Use what God gives you. Consider David when he faced Goliath! King Saul wanted to lend him his armor, but it did not fit him.
Instead, God showed David how to win this very important battle. He led him to fight with just a slingshot. Brethren, its time to grow up, seek God and fight our own battles of faith by what God reveals to you! Many times, we fight our battles with another person's revelation. Don't use another man's armor to fight your own battles of faith. Seek God and let him reveal to you the weapons necessary for you to win. Let's consider the following-
" Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding." (Prov 4:7)
I remember hearing the story of a preacher who was a million dollars in debt in his ministry. He sought God and did not get an answer. As time passed, God started to direct him to sow to certain ministries who were poor and struggling. Afterwards, God rewarded him, reaping a harvest of a million dollars and he got out of debt. Then, God spoke to him. He told him that had he given him the money earlier without discipline, he would have dug a bigger hole and gotten into more debt. The thought for the day-Wisdom. Wisdom is key!
Prayer- Dear Lord, thank you for your word. Thank you for teaching me about wisdom. Father God, give me wisdom in whatever challenges I face in life. Open my ears and direct my steps. Show me areas in my own life in which I lack discipline and proper judgement. Help me to, not, rely on my own strength but on you. Thank you, Lord, for giving me wisdom today. Thank you, Lord, for taking me to the path for victory in my life. In Jesus name. AMEN!
Pastor's thoughts---Feb 20,2015
Have a good laugh!
When was the last time you had a good laugh? This world is so filled with bad news that it is easy to have a negative point of view. The good news is that you can learn to have a good laugh. Years ago, in Argentina, people were at a church services spending some time laughing. The spirit of laughter started spreading over Canada and into the United States. The media jumped on this and called us crazy but God had the last laugh.
Scientist have, recently, discovered that if you laugh at least 10 minutes a day, your health will improve. In studies made in hospitals, it was discovered that when people saw comedy shorts, their health took a turn for the better. Friends, When you get into the spirit realm, laughter is the joy of the Lord and it is the power to make you free. Joy was the power that God used to set his people Israel free from Egyptian bondage. (Ps 105: 43)
Joy is a powerful force and if you are born again, you have it inside of you. It is part of the fruit of the spirit. Are you feeling sad and discouraged? Start laughing at your circumstances because you have a Father that cares for you. He is laughing at your circumstances because he knows the end result--You are more than a conqueror! You are in covenant with him and your problems are his problems. (Ps 2:4, Ps 126:1-2)
Having financial troubles? Use the Isaac principle! Friends, the name Isaac means laughter in the Hebrew text. Sow with joy and laughter. As you do that, you will see your hundredfold return come unto you (Gen 26:12) Start sowing laughter and see how God blesses you. I, personally, get a "kick" when I make people laugh. I like to call myself the "accidental comedian", because I make people laugh without even trying and its by accident. When you spend time encouraging people and making them laugh, you will apply the Isaac principle and sow a hundredfold blessing for your life. God bless.
Prayer---Father, thank you for teaching me about the joy of the Lord. Lord, I bring my problems, sorrows and tears and turn it over to you. You are in covenant with me. You are laughing at my problems because you know the end results.Restore to me that joy of my salvation. Help and teach me to develop Holy Laughter. I receive the joy of the Lord and I declare that I will not be moved. I will learn to laugh at my problems because you give me the victory. HA, HA, HA! Thank you, Lord for your deliverance and blessing today. In Jesus name--AMEN!
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Pastor's notes---02/19/2015
Have you been Hacked?
Friends, that is my question for the day. When we think of the word hacked, we assume that it is a computer issue but it involves more than that. Man is, always, trying to play God and we see it in the last days. I am a avid reader of technology. That subject never ceases to amaze me. Lately, I read something that confirms that we are in the last days.
As you well know, there are plans on the table to put a microchip underneath people's skin. In fact, in Europe the process has, already, begun and people are being open to it. The reasoning behind this is that important records will not be lost. The tragedy of 9-11 had people thinking about this. They reasoned--With a microchip under the skin, it would be easy to find the bodies. My friends, look for a big push in the future for that skin technology in America. I believe that it will come in the guise of entertainment and convenience.
Many will be accepting of it especially when they say that your records cannot be hacked but do not buy into that lie. Recently, I read of a man who used the microchip technology to do something unusual. Through a series of experiments, the man made the rat's tail move. That is dangerous and many are calling it bio hacking. Think about it, if the government can implant microchips in your hand and head, they can, eventually, control your thoughts.
I would elaborate more on this but my point is to make a spiritual analogy. If you read the accounts of the Corinthian church, you would see the Apostle Paul calling them out on the carpet for their carnal acts. In fact, there was another church that was in trouble with God because of mixture. The Galatian church had come back to the law and tried to get others to go with that mess. Paul calls their attention and says ----Who hath bewitched you?
You would ask, why would Paul call their rebellion witchcraft? Simple. The word says the rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft! (I Sam 15:23) When a Christian starts acting carnal, his mind has been hacked by Satan, the world or the flesh. So bio hacking is not new, it has been in existence in the spirit. That is why Paul commands us in Romans 12:2 to renew our minds. Let us learn to keep our hearts and minds in Christ so that we may remain connected to the Lord. Take some time to meditate in the promises of God so that we may develop the mind of Christ. God bless.
Prayer--Father, thank you for your word. Your word is life. Your word gives me wisdom. Help me to stay connected to you. In this day, I command all my thoughts, will and desires to stay in line with your word. I love righteousness and hate iniquity. I receive the oil of gladness in my life. I am a God pleaser and not a man pleaser. I will walk in your ways today because you live in me. I am more than a conqueror through him that loves me. In Jesus name--Amen.
Interesting link...http://www.news.com.au/finance/work/the-workplace-of-2040-mind-control-holograms-and-biohacking-are-the-future-of-business/story-fnkgbb6w-1227209479412
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Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Pastor's Thoughts---Feb 18, 2015
Are you frustrated?
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There are many Christians who are frustrated and feeling down. Why? Because they find that living the Christian life is impossible. They want to serve God and grow but they find, themselves, stumbling over some weakness. Let's face it, we have strengths and we have weaknesses. While I am not trying to downplay sin as weakness but the fact of the matter is that we have those areas in our lives to deal with. How many times have you determined not to fall and wind up doing it not once but 2 or 3 times in a row. That can be frustrating,
When I talk about weakness, it does not have to be one of those great big sins (Adultery, murders, etc.) It can be small like overeating, gossiping or just plain being lazy to mention a few. The word says it is the small foxes that spoil the vine and small things like that can amount to big things in the future. The Apostle Paul faced a situation in which he was dealing with a weakness. It was eating at his insides. He wanted to please God but was frustrated. You can see it in his writings. (Rom 7:19-20)
In chapter 8, we see the Apostle singing a different tune. He uncovers an important revelation. (Rom 8:1-6) My friends, in order to be victorious , we need to define our battles and identify the enemy. In Verse 6, he gives us the key----to be spiritually minded is life and peace. I remember years ago, a famous comedian by the name of Flip Wilson, who used to be famous for his line---The devil made me do it. He would dress up as a country preacher and bring laughter to many, but friends, sin is no laughing matter. It has consequences and will hurt us in the long run.
In dealing with sin and weakness, Paul does not mention the devil at all. He mentions the carnal mind. While I do not want to downplay the devil and his devices, we need to have a discerning spirit. Many things that are attributed to the devil is really just the flesh. Paul went to the source and addressed it. Rom 12:2 commands us to renew our minds. Why? Because that is the battleground for either victory or defeat. Let us learn from Paul and decide to renew our minds today. Live a life of victory and see your life change for the better. God bless...
Prayer--Father, I come to you recognizing that I am weak in certain areas. I ask you to forgive me if I have been discouraged and given up. I know that your mercies are new every day. In this day, I command my thoughts, will and emotions to line up to the word. I command my soulish area to obey God. I have the mind of Christ. I draw upon his wisdom, revelation and knowledge to live a life of victory. I am seated with Christ in the heavenlies and I reign over sin, the flesh, sickness and financial oppression. Victory is mine in Jesus Name---Amen! Check out our link...http://www.prayerswithpower.com
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God bless.
Monday, February 16, 2015
Pastor's thoughts---
Hearing God's Voice
One of the most common things that you heard today is the phrase--I need a word, Many Christians, when they go through trials and tests, would say that they are not hearing from God. Even in the church, I am amazed when they have a visiting prophet, they go to services with the expectancy of getting a personal word. I, once, saw in a service how there was a line of people just waiting to get a word from the prophet.
Please do not get me wrong. We should honor the prophets and other ministry gifts that God sends to the church but our lives should not revolve, entirely, on that. The word of God is a sure prophecy (II Peter 1:19) Think about this---GOD IS SPEAKING TO US 24 hours a day through his word. His word is his will. Many are looking for a sign. Yes, there are times when God might use a sign to speak to us but we should learn to hear his voice in our inner being. Remember, friends, we walk by faith and not by sight.
How do we develop ourselves to hear God's voice? By having fellowship with him. Take some time and practice hearing his voice. If you draw near to him, he will draw near to you. (James 4:8) We tend to view prayers as a time to pour out our hearts and that is part of the process, but there is more to it. One missing part of the puzzle is to be quiet and practice hearing his voice. As we do that, we will learn to hear his voice and see his hand guide our lives. God bless.
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Friday, February 13, 2015
Pastor's Thoughts- Feb 14, 2015
"Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.
But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;
And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt 24:44-51)
These scriptures have, always, been associated with the rapture. While I would like to teach about this, I was impressed to go with matters of the heart. King David said to the Lord to examine me! (Ps 26:2) Prove me-Try my reins and my heart. When was the last time you went in for a heart checkup? Jesus is the great physician and wants to reveal to us our "Medical" report.
Our hearts can be our emotions,desires and mind. It is a sad state of affairs that ministers are being snared by pornography. Friends, Satan is after your mind. Why? Because that is where the battle is fought! Jesus knows what we are thinking day by day! If you study the life of Judas, he started on the right foot. God is, not, going to give his power to someone who isn't living right. (Matt 10:1) It is a dangerous thing when you try to cast out a devil and you aren't living right.
Judas saw miracles and cast out devils, but something happened along the way. Judas had issues like many of us do. He had a weakness and that was money. The failure to deal with this issue got him into the hands of the enemy and his heart was hardened. (John 13:26-28) All during this time, Jesus was loving Judas. He did not expose nor confront him for his dishonest ways of handling the offerings. He gave him a chance to repent, but he hardened his heart.
On the other hand, Peter had issues too! Jesus told him that he was going to deny him, but Peter got indignant. When the pressure came, what was in his heart came out. As you read Matt 24:44-51, the unfaithful servant, also, had issues. He was doing everything right but when he noticed that the Lord tarried, he turned to the world. What was in his mind came out and got manifested. Noticed that the Lord called him an evil servant even before he committed those acts of sins. He knows our hearts.
The word says-YOUR SINS WILL FIND YOU OUT! Ask God to reveal the issues of your heart. Friends, we, all, have issues we need to deal with. Spend time before the presence of the Lord and deal with the issues. Get to the root of it. Dealing with it will help you avoid heartaches in the future.
Labels:
Bible study,
Hearts,
issues,
Judas,
King David,
Peter,
Sins
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Pastor's thoughts---Feb 10, 2015
WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND?
While thinking on what to share on my post, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and asked--What's on your mind? As I read my face book posts from many well-meaning ministries, I hear the topic of repentance and holiness. Many times, I hear that we need to get back to preaching the cross. Many would say that all you see on TV is prosperity teachings and no preaching of the cross. With all due respect to my minister friends, Yes, I would agree that we have to repent. In some ways, we may have gotten off track but not completely.
Case in point, you will, always find ministries on TV that do preach the cross, among them, the 700 club. I work as a prayer counselor at the 700 club. I have seen the phones light up as soon as Pat or Gordon invite people to say the sinner's prayer. Also, Pat is not afraid to speak out against sin and the dangers that we are facing as a country. Many would agree to that but would question the endless telethons in raising money for TV stations.
Beloved, I, personally know that it takes money to air the gospel. I had a radio spot for 15 minutes more than twenty years ago. I, very rarely, spoke about money believing that it would come. Yes, a few funds came in but that was not enough to maintain my program. Within about 6 months, I was off the air. Why? Because I did not want to speak about money.
The Apostle Paul spoke about money (II Cor 9) as well as Jesus. Imagine if the Apostle Paul was raising funds for a TV station, would he been mocked? I, personally, get excited when I have an opportunity to give. Dr. Murdock, whose face we all see at late night, challenges people to give a $58.00 seed. I took his challenge and got blessed financially beyond my wildest dreams. I am not saying you ought to give $58 just to try it. You make sure you hear from God before you do.
The important thing is to partner with a ministry and support it. Do we need repentance as a body and walk in the fear of God? Yes, to some degree but let us not overlook what God is doing in our nation. Human nature is so used to bad news. I believe that as the body of Christ adjusts itself and seeks God's face, we will see a revival unparalleled in history with signs and wonders following. Many prophets predicts the year of 2015 as the year of push back. Let's pray for one another and be open to doing our part in pushing back in 2015! God bless.
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Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Pastor's thoughts....Feb 9, 2015
HELP!
Believe it or not, there was a song with that title back in the 60's. The song help was from the Beatles which was made into a hit movie. The lyrics--"Help, I need somebody. Help, Not just anybody.... " In life, we, all, run into problems and obstacles that would challenge us. Sometimes, that person who has, always, been there for you will let you down. Friends, I am here to tell you --Jesus will never let you down. He is there to comfort you and take care of you.
How many times have you had the experience of asking something from God and it does not manifest? Many are turning away from God. There is a hunger in man to find God. God is unknown to the natural man, so he fills that void with earthly and carnal pleasures. Many think that God is like the genie in the lamb---Your wish is my command. Stop and think about this for a minute, Why on earth would God give us a bible to use?
The Bible is instructions from God on how to live for him, to live a victorious life and see life's circumstances change for the better. Yes, it is a battle out there but God has given us a manual to overcome life's toughest problems. The world is looking for answers and that wisdom lies within the church! God has created us to be problem-solvers in life.
When you are in Christ, you have a genius that lives on the inside of you. Christ has been made unto us WISDOM. Do you know what that means? It means that you and I have the answers to, not only, all our problems but the problems that this world is facing. The church needs to get away from mediocre thinking of just getting by, of just staying within the four walls of a building.
There is a world out there that is waiting for God's wisdom to operate and solve problems. In this day, let me challenge you to be used of God to be a problem-solver. Allow his wisdom to flow in you to help solve your problems and others. Remember these words for today---Wisdom is the principal thing. (Prov 4:7) God bless.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Pastor's thoughts---Feb 8, 2015
Being kingdom-minded
Pastor's thoughts---In my last post, we were talking about being kingdom-minded. I want to elaborate more on this. When we renew our minds, we will think before we talk. It is amazing how we use words and do not think on the consequences they have. One case in the Bible involved words that affected a nation! The Jews in their zeal to crucify Jesus said something that has plagued them forever. When they were debating with Pilate on his Crucifixion, they said...Let his blood be upon us and our children.( Matt 27:20-25) Since then, the blood which was meant to save and redeem them has served as a curse for the Jews. Throughout the ages, they have been persecuted and killed in Europe and many parts of the world.
But that is not the end of the story. God always has plan B. What was his plan B? He had his prophet Ezekiel travel through time and prophesy to the valley of dry bones. He saw that the Jews were going to speak destruction upon themselves through the blood of Jesus, so he undid their words by releasing life-saving words by the mouth of Ezekiel. (Ezekiel 37:1-14) In 1948, the Jews had their homeland and were a nation, fulfilling prophesy. So, my friends, words have consequences but the good news is that you can undo your destruction by speaking words of life. In this day, take inventory on what you say, bind those words and start declaring the word of God upon yourself and your own. God bless.
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Monday, February 9, 2015
Pastor's Thoughts
The laws of faith----Feb 7,2015
In understanding the laws of faith, we need to understand a simple fact--Everything is governed by laws. The laws of aviation was in effect since the world began but man discovered it in the early 1900's. The same is true when God. God's word says that he hath given us all things that pertains unto life. (I Peter 1:3) We do not have to beg, grovel or persuade God. Truth of the matter is that if you are, truly, born again, you have it already. All you need to do is ask and receive it in the spirit.
The point to address is how to become kingdom minded? We are children of the king. God is our father and we are his children. In a king's court, there is a proper way to conduct business. A proper protocol, if you will, is necessary. First, we need to renew our minds. Our minds are like computers and has data. Some is good and some is bad. In order to understand God and how he works, we need to learn how he thinks.
Renewing the mind takes work. It is like building a house. Many beloved brethren do not even take time to spend in the word and when troubles and challenges come their way, they fall apart. We need to learn how to build our house and be prepared for the day of trouble...because it is coming and you better be prepared! As good soldiers in Christ, we need to learn how to take back what is,rightfully, ours and enjoy the spoils of battle. Always remember this---The greater the battle, the greater the spoils.
So, spend some time with the Lord. Spend some time praising him and enjoying his presence. Above all, spend some time meditating in the word. Take some scriptures that will build up your faith. Remember, faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. As you hear God's promises, you are building your faith for the day of battle. Don't have time to look up scriptures? Here are a couple of links that I use to help me. I trust that they will do the same for you. God bless.....
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