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| prisoners of hope click on any picture to enlarge |
For how great is
His goodness and how great is His beauty!
Corn shall make the young men cheerful, and new wine the maids. [Zech
9:12, 17]
(Updated with additional info and pics; errors corrected: April 23/24, 2025 BP)
To Blog or Not to Blog
To the friends and strangers who keep checking in, I give
a warm, heartfelt “thank you” as I have been trying very hard to
keep this blog afloat -- and yes, I have asked the Lord that if
He desires that I lay all I have [written (physical)], and
all that I am [within (spiritual)]
at His feet as my love offering for His glory and for His kingdom, then I will
humbly accept.
All that I am and all that is within – the physical and
spiritual is His anyway, so what is left? The writing? That is also a physical
thing that comes from the spiritual, so again, it is something physical and
spiritual – something that was and is a gift, for which I am most
thankful.
Like most children, I long to make my Father smile, to bless
Him …if that is possible, since it is God Almighty of all creation that blesses
us. El Shaddai. It is only ‘natural’ to want to please the
ones we love and to give to them happiness, respect, and honour. And if anyone
“deserves” those things, it is our Father [Abba], our Creator!
I realize I mentioned this same concern in my last post, but I truly do want the will of God. All of us who love Him and who have matured in our faith desire only His will. We have learned being outside of God’s will is rarely a place of peace or order.
All of us can get outside of His will. Sometimes we know it, and other times we are unaware. It is all part of living in this secular world with a carnal nature. It may not constitute sin, but there is no peace or good fruit without Jesus/Yeshua or the most Holy Spirit. He is the living Vine to which we cling [cleave].
(Added April 23: Cleave can mean separation or to sever; split, crack or divide open. However, the KJV Bible uses "cleave" from [Gen 2:24 - Rom 12:9] [using the tool e-Sword as reference]
In almost every instance in the KJV, "cleave" is used with the implication of union so strong it is tough to separate. It means: 'to adhere closely, stick together, strongly attached'. It is used often in reference to 'the Lord', but also to "cleave" to the 'wife'. It unquestionably implies 'intimacy' and 'bond of commitment' in those two instances - BP)
There are times that we go about our business without consulting God. It may seem a trivial matter such as going to dinner with a loved one or a buddy, heading for a business meeting with associates, or simply going to school, or heading out to the grocery store. Surely, we do not have to seek God’s will on every single inconsequential thing, do we?
Something to consider is this. If God cares about the sparrow that falls from a tree, or how many hairs we have on our head, or even caring enough about our anxieties to tell us to “be anxious for nothing”, but to bring everything to Him (with thanksgiving – thank You Lord for Your great care), then we can rest assured He is interested. He is not frivolous with words. Everything means just that.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by
prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let our requests be made known to
God; and the peace of God, which
surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ
Jesus. [Phil 4:6]
He is interested in our dinner engagements, business meetings, school
attendance, and grocery trips as inconsequential as they are. In this violent,
fast-paced world, it is a wise move to pray for protection, to keep us from
accidents, robbery, or any violent or unexpected interference that the world
[nature or circumstances], or even the enemy has in store.
"Everything"! That is a difficult concept to wrap our head around. We are brought up to make decisions, use critical thinking, make wise choices, and to be independent, so praying about every ‘little’ thing would take some getting used to, wouldn’t it? It would require discipline, a 'training' of sorts, until it became 'second nature', in a manner of speaking.
Our Independent Nature
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| the battle around us rages we NEED JESUS |
We need God's intervention perhaps more times than we care to admit. By the by, that ‘independent nature’ came with the fall. Adam and Eve were told they would be ‘as gods’, knowing good from evil. It was up to Eve to make a choice – an independent one, separate from Adam or God.
Our Creator wants us to be dependent upon Him, and fellowship with Him. That is why He created us - for His pleasure, for fellowship. What a privilege, as we look around at all creation, that we (mankind) were the part that He chose to make in His own image. There is no shame in being dependent upon Yahweh. Honour...
According to the Chinese culture and tradition, this is the year of the snake [serpent]. Last year was the year of the dragon. So much went down - so much revealing of the devil's work. So many wolves, false brethren, apostasy revealed - judgment going forth. The false and the prideful want you to depend on them...
What About Revival?
I will not get into all the revealing taking place right now (here in this article, at this time), but be aware that the battle is heating up. Judgment is flowing. I must ask - where is the repentance that is being done silently (quietly) between one person and the true living God, and not a repentance that is a show for all to see?
THAT is where true revival starts. It starts with you. It starts with me. It starts with one individual and much prayer, searching deep within with the Holy Spirit's help, godly sorrow, and allowing the Creator to do the work He promised to do within us until the day of Jesus Christ.
Unfortunately, many so-called revivals are not long-lasting as they are often ignited by the spark of emotionalism. Music selection plays a part in this since we all respond to music, especially where the lyrics are relatable to our situation, our need to be released from personal pain (whether physical, mental, spiritual).
Even the rich can hit "lows" where a supernatural solution is needed. To cut away the heavy burdens of guilt or shame, failure or hopelessness is often a desperate plea deep within. There are those who are not liked due to pride and arrogance, or what has been labeled a narcistic personality. Indeed, many have a hunger to change but have no idea how. A Saviour is the answer to all of these scenarios.
Music and personal testimonials can move over a few individuals, hundreds or even thousands of people and motivate them to repent, confessing their sins and move them to receive the salvation, forgiveness and freedom of Messiah, Jesus the Christ. Yet, when the Spirit of God moves, it is phenomenal and long-lasting.
One of the saddest things that happens at a crusade or at a church, campus or (some other place such as a tent or open fields) is when there is no follow-up, no mentor, no one to disciple.
Many times, new believers are left on their own to continue their faith walk with advice about finding a good local church. They might be given a church name or some suggestion, but often that is not the case, particularly when the numbers are high.
If their personal revival happened at a church, there still may not be any discipling as people carry on with their schedules after the revival is over. This is where the adversary will come along and attempt to steal the seeds sown. Or suddenly great trial or tribulation comes upon the new believer and they are at a loss what to do.
What happens when the church they choose to attend teaches false doctrine? Who will come to the rescue and point it out? Who warns them about the adversary or the battles they will face spiritually? How do they handle temptations? Where is the strength found to overcome?
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| Christ in us - the authority to tread on serpents/scorpions and on all power of the enemy [Lk 10:18] |
These type of questions can be answered by a mentor, one who can help a new convert navigate their way down the narrow path, directing or helping them to learn to keep Jesus as their focus. Yes, it is a learning process, but it is not one to go alone.
There is often no warning that the "high" (release, freedom) people often experience when they choose to follow Jesus wears off. Sometimes there may be but the person experiencing the new-found freedom may sincerely believe it will not end - then they crash.
A fair warning is needed. A mature Christian needs to bring a new convert under his/her wing or introduce them to someone who has the time and dedication. Satan will do everything he can to put a soul back into bondage, whether it is through testing, hardships (tribulation), or fiery darts (poisonous thoughts).
When Jesus/Yeshua told the parable of the sower (messenger/bringer of good news/gospel) who sowed seeds (word of God/gospel). It is a perfect parable to explain to a new believer. It took a long time for me to understand what it all meant. What happens with the seeds sown (planted)?
Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. [Mat 13:5-8]
Were you told that it is a life-long process? It is not just a one-time deal - it is the amazing beginning. We can spend eternity with our Creator. Is that not incredible? Once a person is saved and comes to know Jesus, that person will not be able to imagine an existence without such a holy, perfect, loving and righteous Saviour/God!
Salvation is the beginning... We are fighting a very stubborn, very strong sinful nature and that in itself is a battle. But at the same time, we have a very real adversary whose hatred is powerful and his ways pure evil, deceptive and destructive, but guess what?
It is solidly and faithfully true that "greater is He (Jesus/Yeshua) that is in us [the born-again, holy Spirit-filled believer] than he (Satan/Lucifer) that is in the world." [1Jn 4:4]
We must be careful, meaning there are wolves and other predators that are eager to attack a new lamb...That is why it is important to stick with other believers. Sin wants to come back to familiar territory. If it does, know that we are all fighting a daily battle with our flesh (carnal nature).
If we slip, we have to be real in our confession and not make excuses or compromise. Take it a step at a time. Get rid of hatred, bitterness, anger or malice. Keep an attitude of gratitude, remembering (with the Holy Spirit's help) where we were when Jesus Christ saved us.
That does not mean wallowing in guilt or condemnation; it simply helps to keep us from a 'holier than thou' attitude. Remember that a holy God is watching us, full of grace and mercy yes, but also a God of justice and judgment. Selah
As we grow and mature in the faith, we are told to be watchmen and dutifully warn others but we must be careful that we do not take too much pleasure in pointing the finger.
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| Jesus/Yeshua, the adulteress and the 'holier-than-thou' accusers |
I have seen some who seem to exhibit delight in pointing out those who have been caught in the midst of a sin (fornication, adultery, SA, abortion, (fill in the blank)).Please do not do that. We have our failings too.
Forgiveness, restoration, healing, and more is absolutely possible. The only unforgiveable sin is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit.
Some go a step further and tell other watchmen how 'wrong' they are not to be doing what they are doing when someone is exposed. We all have different missions. There is so much happening, one person cannot possibly cover it all.
That is why the 'body of Christ' works together, as a team. We must make a choice. Either we stand our ground for Jesus and the truth of the Gospels, or we compromise in order to "keep the peace".
We have to let God be God, and let people obey HIM, not us or what we think they should be doing, even when we do not understand.
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| click any picture to enlarge |
Lest we forget, dear soul, we need to remember that [one] plants, [one] waters, and God gives the increase. [1Cor 3:6] Not all fruit is the same. We have kiwi, oranges, apples, bananas, tomatoes - you catch my drift. I remember when it took some solid hard facts to convince me that 'tomatoes' were actually a 'fruit'.
Good fruit is good fruit, but it is not all the same flavours [gifts, talents]. Some are sweet as can be; others tart enough to make a face (think lemons and limes). People are like that; some sweet (maybe too sweet) and some...tart (tough-sounding, harsh or abrasive perhaps is the word).
They do not condemn. The Holy Spirit does convict though, and some cannot tell the difference, but they will learn. Condemnation brings guilt, even [further] rebellion. Conviction brings godly sorrow, [repentance] and change.
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| fake on left--real on right click on any picture to enlarge |
Watch out for plastic fruit or 3D printer fruit (fruit made from substitutions). Plastic fruit does not grow. It sits there looking good in a condemning, 'perfect' way. It is attractive to the eye, and perfect in presentation, but it is of no real value or nutrition. It is - false.
Please do not be fooled.. capeesh? This is where we all need to help of the Holy Spirit to discern. As technologies advance, it is getting more difficult to discern at times.
I disagreed with that statement at one time but now I have deeper understanding of Jesus' words when He said that unless the [last of the last] days were shortened, even the very elect would be deceived.
Satan is subtle, cunning and crafty, and so are his minions and double agents. As we look around and see how long we were deceived by this world (governments, history, news agencies, et al) already, as we see many hidden things that are being (and have been) revealed, our understanding broadens.
Let me make this perfectly clear. We MUST be watchmen and warn others if we know better. Each one of us are grateful when someone gives us a heads up and keep us from deception or trickery. I know I am and it IS a rightful duty to warn others of cults, false religions, false doctrines, false teachers/prophets, wolves, double agents, etc.
Guaranteed that you will not win popularity contests, but consider, the most purely-motivated, truthful soul who ever existed [Jesus/Yeshua] was crucified for TRUTH.
The good news is that death could not hold Him, and on the third day Jesus was risen from the dead by the precious and holy Spirit of the living God.
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| superficial [jplastic] more often than not |
The deceiver, Satan, is counterfeiting God as he speaks of love, love, love - and flashes the heart symbol (via hand symbol) around the world, and calling for 'unity' and 'acceptance' too...the perverter of truth and his false prophets and teachers will tell you it is okay if people are not perfect and make mistakes in the name of Jesus. Copycat and a liar - that is the devil and his work.
We cannot compromise when it comes to the gospel. There is no room for error or mistakes when the message is attached to God. He is perfect and without error. It is the same when it comes to doctrine (teaching); biblical doctrine can contain no error. Not when it comes to a prophetic message either. Be silent until you know it is God and not a spirit of divination, or a familiar spirit, or just the flesh (carnal nature) speaking.
True love will speak truth at all costs. It is NOT always easy, but it is always necessary. This life is short - souls need truth. There are so many false teachers and false prophets coming out of the woodwork, it is like an earwig infestation after a rainstorm. They are everywhere.
They are coming out and moving fast - and WHO is the author of confusion? It is not God... However, we cannot give up - no matter how hard it gets. We may have 'moments' (days, maybe weeks - depending on your support system); the more 'alone' a person is, it can be harder but keep JESUS (Yeshua) close. Personally, He is my lifeline...and He should be yours too!
This year we will see more of the 'serpent's agents and handiwork'. Christians have no part of celebrating the year of the snake but the world does, just as it celebrated the year of the dragon. I saw dragons displayed on everything from cups to clothing, and toys to baked goods.
Satan first spoke through the serpent in Eden. He longs for the spotlight and to be adored and revered. He is preparing for his "moments of fame" during the Great Tribulation. Beware of those who tell you to compromise. Satan and Jesus NEVER work together.
Have no other gods before the true living God...and Jesus (Yeshua) is the ONLY way back to God. Please quit looking so much for prophetic words, and seek the One who IS the WORD (Jesus). Be careful, thousands are following 'prophets' who glean the right words off the internet, but are watching what people are saying (and adjusting their personality and their vocabulary).
They often have memorized prayers and tell you how much they are NOT talking about themselves. Too many give lip service to please and impress the people...please do not compromise.
They have done their homework searching the internet to see what people like to hear, and what is acceptable. Plagiarism and copying ideas, rewording, they get away with it because people have a hard time remembering where they read what. But God knows.
Keep exposing wolves. There is no such thing as half-truths - half-truths often are meant to deceive. Is there such a thing as half-Saviour? half the Word true? half a prophecy good?
Cling, cling, cling to Jesus - He will hold you steady. He is helping me, as I have been fighting the heaviest depression I have ever known. I believe miracles are coming, which means (again) the alerts must go out because that also means the deceiver will be revving up his signs and lying wonders...
The world is preparing for the appearance of the lawless one...that is why so many are overwhelmed, weary, and pressing in to God through Jesus. Glory - thank You Lord for Your availability and steadfastness...ever-present help.
Soon returning - hallelujah~
Watch out for wolves, false brethren, false prophets/teachers - serpents and cockatrice eggs...Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the WORD of God. Faith will hold us steady. Amen Praise Jesus
Beguiled [deceived] by the serpent, Eve did choose. Then, she persuaded Adam to choose,
independent from God. (yes, repeating the word because it is what people WANT to be) Adam independently chose to disobey. Most people prefer to
be independent, not always realizing that it is best to work together - team
work. Jesus sent people out by twos.
We inherited the carnal nature. One day, when we join Christ, we will walk in glorified bodies once again - no more pain or sorrow, no more sickness or disease, no more tears - no death! Hallelujah [Rev 21:4]
[1] Firstly, arrow prayers can work both ways. We get straight to the 'point' in prayer, with ‘thanksgiving’ [a grateful heart] as instructed, to pray for others.
[2] Secondly, we can deflect the fiery darts of the enemy when we are submitted (surrendered) to God. Our shield of "faith" deflects them and can protect our loved ones. A quick ‘arrow prayer’ (as I have always called the fast, short prayers) is just that, quick, easy and wise – a step ahead.
[3] Thirdly, no one heads out the door anticipating an accident, or a vicious dog, or even a slippery banana peel. However, this life is full of unexpected events. As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” – Benjamin Franklin, fits here.
So shall My Word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return
to Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it
shall prosper in the thing where I sent it. [Is 55:11]
So we guard our heart and mind by shooting an arrow prayer heaven-bound,
fully confident that the Word does not return void, so if God says it [it is
written], we can rest assured it’s a ‘done deal’ (He hears).
(This writer has not got this down pat – yet, or 100% perfectly… yet.
Shhh!)
Yet what does this world offer us these days? Peace, peace, when there is no peace – Jeremiah forewarned. [6:14; 8:11] Paul the apostle warned about the time when we will hear false prophets speak of “peace and security”, then sudden destruction comes “like a thief in the night”. [1Thes 5:2-3]
Satan counterfeits all God does and presents it to the
world. Wisdom does not condone being out of God’s will. The Creator knows
‘all’, and abiding in Him and He in us is the absolute best place to be – in
His will. Therein lies perfect peace.
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| Dangerously out of God's will |
Willfully being out of Yahweh’s will is disobedience, disorder and deception. The pleasure of sin may or may not grant temporary ecstasy or satisfaction, but any pleasure is fleeting and the consequences are never worth it. Sometimes the consequences are long-lasting - in other instances, it can lead to death.
I will give one example - Samson, although King Saul comes to mind as well.
Samson the Nazirite and King Saul come to mind regarding willful
disobedience. Even still, despite all he did in disobedience, El Shaddai
answered Samson’s last prayer request.
Samson prayed God would remember him and give him the strength to
destroy the Temple of Dagon where hundreds of Philistines had gathered. They
rejoiced and falsely bragged that their idol/false god Dagon had delivered
Samson into their hands.
Samson prayed God would avenge him [they gouged out his eyes]. He prayed for strength to perform the destruction of the idol and his temple, and to allow him to perish along with all the Philistines. The faithful God, righteous and just, granted his servant’s last prayer request
You will keep him in perfect peace whose
mind is stayed on You. [Is 26:3] NKJV
The Hard Way of the Tightrope
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| Faith-step by careful step |
When it comes to the will of God and being in or out of God’s will, a well-respected British evangelical preacher named Stuart Briscoe broadened my understanding in a way that I had not considered before. Speaking about being outside of God’s will, Pastor Briscoe stated that “some people got the impression that the will of God is rather like the high wire in the circus.”
“You know, you’ve seen these acrobats climb up the ladder to the top of
the tent and then get on the wire and they’ve got to put each foot absolutely
meticulously in the right place, except if they don’t, they slip and fall off
the wire.”
“Many people have got the idea that the will of God is so specific and
so rigid and so limited that if they don’t get every step absolutely right,
they fall out of the will of God. Personally, I don’t think that is a
particularly helpful analogy at all.”
“I think what we should be looking at is that God is clearly outlined
the way He wants us to live our lives and He has outlined it by giving us
commandments, by giving us specific instructions. He told us what to do and
he’s told us the things not to do.”
“Now, scripture has this delightful way of dealing with this whole
business of God telling us what to do and us living in obedience or
disobedience. This is what it says…John in his first epistle said to his
readers, “I am writing to you so that you don’t sin.”
“You say, Oh, he’s writing to show people how to live a sinless life, to
get their feet absolutely right on that high wire.” No, what he
went on to say is, ‘I am writing to you so that you will
not sin, but if any man sin…’, and then he goes on to explain what
they should do if they sin.”
“So, John is explaining two things to us: that going on sinning
repeatedly, just falling out of the will of God and then climbing back in, and
falling out – that’s not normal. That is not what we are called to.”
We All Slip – Sometimes We Fall
“On
the other hand, it would be foolish of us to suggest for a moment that we don’t
slip up at times, that we don’t put things wrongly, that it would be wrong for
us to even suggest that we are always living a sinless life – and there is a
way back for us to find cleansing and forgiveness with the Lord.”
“So,
put these two things in mind. We should be developing; we should be maturing.
We should be finding increasing victory over the things that have defeated us
over time. It is not going to happen overnight. It is not going to happen
perfectly and totally before eternity.”
“But thank God, whilst he is going to mature us and enable us to walk more and more in obedience, in dependence to the Lord. When we fail to do that, we immediately come to the Lord in confession and in faith.”
“And we are told He is faithful to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. So, remember those two things. John said I am writing to you so that you won’t sin, but if you do sin, this is what you do. You come in confession to the Lord and He is gracious and merciful to forgive you.” – [4 min> God’s Will – Stuart Briscoe [passed at age 91 - Nov 9, 1930-Aug 3, 2022]
Rejoice not against me, O my enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me. [Micah 7:8]
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| I shall behold His righteousness |
I will bear the indignation of the Lord because I have sinned against Him, until He plead my cause, and execute judgment for me: He will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold His righteousness. [Micah—vs 9]
Unnecessary Heavy Burden
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| I always like to say here... Houston, we have lift-off lol But in truth, heavy burdens will hinder or stop us It is written: Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain you: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. [Ps 55:22] |
It seemed my mindset for the longest time was that there was
a tightrope that few could walk to stay in God’s will. Those were the days that
I did not know love. I truly believed God was very strict and His
punishments severe.
If a person comes from a background where fatherly love does not exist or there is no father figure [absence due to business, negligence, war, divorce or death, negligence (substance abuse, addictions, etc.)], or the father is violent, abusive [physically, sexually, verbally, emotionally, mentally], then more than likely their perspective of a heavenly Father is warped.
If they have grown up in a home where Satanic ritual abuse (SRA), witchcraft, cults, racist or militant groups [especially violent groups], or anything out of the ‘norm’, can thwart a healthy perspective of a good Creator and Saviour.
One can become hardened and bitter, but with help (quality healthy help) through the Spirit of God in Jesus, deliverance and healing can occur. Godly counselling can do wonders. Satan wants people trapped in a “victim” mentality, where they are so weighed down in self-pity that they cannot mature, grow or heal. They struggle to come out of denial and to go forward.
They
“choose” not to let go of the past because of the lies of the adversary. Prayer
is needed; people standing in the gap once Jesus/Yeshua opens their eyes to see
the help a loved one or friend needs. This is part of our mission here on
earth. We have need of each other. The closer someone is to us that requires such help, the more trying it is, but we cannot and must not give up.
Forgive
We do not all have the same mission, but we are all called to pray and to warn. We are called to keep a repentant heart, filled with godly sorrow, and to forgive. It is amazing how bitterness melts away from our heart when we determine to forgive.
Let’s
face it. All of us need to be forgiven for something we have said or done. But
we best heed the words of Jesus.
For if
you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father
will also forgive you: But if you forgive not men their trespasses,
neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. [Mat 6:15]
Remember, seventy times seven we were instructed to forgive. We will give up in counting, and that is the point Jesus is making. We will lose track of the number of times we have forgiven, or we will find it too arduous.
Forgiveness is also crucial for healing… (another topic, another time; however, I am confident that most people can see how forgiveness begins the healing process). I do urge people to try not to put it off because time is of the essence. There is a very real help in
trouble [Ps 46:1] – His name is Jesus.
The adversary, Lucifer/Satan, has all of God’s people on his radar, but he particularly targets those who are walking as close to the Messiah as they know how, totally dedicated, keeping a watchful eye and praying – waiting for Jesus. Maranatha Lord – not much longer.
Satan takes the truth and corrupts it to the point that it can be hard to bear, but most often, hard to recognize. It is why Yeshua forewarned us that if time were not shortened, even the very elect would be deceived.
Remember, Lucifer/Satan was the anointing cherub covering the throne. He knows God and His ways intimately, but Satan is a created being like us. He is limited and does not know everything about God.
He does not know the mind of Yahweh or all His ways. He only thinks he is greater than God, but that thought is not reality. Yahweh's thoughts and ways are far above and beyond the thoughts and ways of any created being, whether it is an angel or mankind.
False teachers with their false doctrines such as “sinless perfection” can mess up the new believer or anyone who has not fully studied the Word, as well as those who have not had teaching that is 'meat', but kept on the 'milk' of the Word.
But
Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit who would lead us into all truth [Jn
16:13]. What preacher Stuart stated is so true [in the above transcript]. We do not excuse sin, but the
truth is that as long as we are in these corrupted bodies with the fallen
carnal nature, we will not walk perfectly without sin.
Only one person was ever able to do that, whose name was Jesus - Yeshua. And as perfect as He was, He still wasn’t good enough for some people such as the Pharisees. They continually sought to find fault with Him. They continued plotting until they found a way to put an end to His ministry.
He was still horribly beaten, rejected, ridiculed, mocked, and put to death. Little did they know that His whole purpose Jesus came in the flesh was to become the perfect, unblemished Lamb - the perfect sacrifice for the cleansing and forgiveness of sins, and the salvation of mankind.
Jesus/Yeshua went through it all so that we could come boldly yet humbly before the Father through Jesus and confess our sins with godly sorrow, and be forgiven and cleansed. I hope these truths help someone as surely as they have helped me in my walk. it is all written in the Holy Scriptures - the blessed Word of God.
The Great Wait
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| long wait for Jesus... |
Unless I go to be with Jesus first, I will not be sure of the right timing to step aside, except that my Creator instruct me in the way that I should go. [Ps 32:8] He has promised to do just that for all who acknowledge Him. We only have to trust and wait. We are obliged to do critical thinking when we listen to doctrine and make choices, but do not let your logic override your trust. [Prov 3:5-6]
Waiting (especially when pain is involved, whether physical, emotional, spiritual – [body, soul, spirit] – pain is pain). Yes, waiting is tough. Waiting is difficult. The majority of us hate waiting [Indeed, hate is a strong word, but waiting often requires us to be strong) …for everyone!
I try to imagine a 40-year wait with Moses in
the wilderness to finally come to the land of promise; or a 13-year wait for Jacob’s son Joseph, to see
his vision come to fruition. Imagine going from being a teenager to becoming a
mature man like he did, waiting for a major life change (Joseph believed the
two dreams).
There is Abram and his wife, Sarai. There was a glitch in the “patience” department around the 13th year. Abram and Sarai believed God, but were impatient. What was taking so long? Sarai gave Abram her maid servant, Hagar, to wife and she did conceive.
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| Sarai's handmaiden Hagar bore Ishmael |
Ishmael was born, which would lead to future troubles to this day. I have been taught that Arabians are descendants of Abraham through Ishmael. The chosen couple still had to wait 25 years for their “son of promise”.
During those lengthy years, the names of both were changed. Abram [Gen 11:26] means ‘exalted father’. Abram’s name was changed to Abraham, the “father of many nations”. Sarai's name was changed to Sarah [Gen 11:29] “princess” or “noblewoman”. Some theologians say her name also meant "mother of many nations", but I cannot find a solid reference to validate that.
May Yahweh's perfect will be done – I did pray that I would
have the courage and humility to gracefully accept whatever His will is without
any rhetoric of reasoning or excuses from pride [with its subtleties].
I would quietly step aside [with a final heads up],
grateful for the time I was allowed to share, but more importantly, for His
trusting in me to reach out [or tested me – either way, it is an honour and
privilege], sharing whatever He placed upon my heart.
If I said it would be easy, I would not be honest. Yes,
He humbled me with the privilege of writing for others. I had hoped to show
some dear souls the way [through Jesus/Yeshua, the only
‘way’ back to the Father] by pointing to the Messiah,
by helping wayward or lost ones (like I once was) to realize that He
takes us at our worst to shape us into His best. [Phil 1:6]
The answer that came to me from the Lord is to “keep going”, to keep on writing …Yeshua is not requesting that I stand down at this time. It may mean “waiting” on my part and the part of the readers. I have been disciplining myself not to stress about posting – not easy with so much happening. So, I refocus to Christ. Satan will condemn – shut out his voice, the voice of a liar.
It is crucial that the Holy Spirit is in all I set my hand to because it is the Spirit of El Shaddai that draws people, not me. If directed to podcast (if there is time, seeing how fast things are moving these days, and if I receive the God-given courage), then you get to meet grandma Moses.
Not everyone is led to be online. Let God direct, not people - no matter how cold-hearted their comments may be. Forgive and move on. This life is short. How I look forward to heaven!
I waited nearly a month this time seeking God’s will because as explained earlier, it is the only way that my soul would have peace (the kind Jesus gives), and my confidence remains grounded in Him.
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| The narrow way with Christ Jesus/Yeshua is the ONLY way...[Jn 14:6] |
That is what you need as well – that peace (being in God’s will) that passes all understanding, a peace that the world cannot give. [Phil 4:7] Then YOUR confidence will be grounded in Jesus/Yeshua as well. Shalom in Christ Jesus.
Until tomorrow...
for His glory alone
Bonita dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com
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Hey Bonita, I really enjoyed reading your post. I use "arrow prayers" quite a bit. It's amazing how the Lord will respond to such simple, straight forward prayers.😊 I liked the article concerning being in God's will. Many times I find myself making it more difficult than it needs to be. I believe if I sincerely want to be in God's will, He can give me the grace I need to be there. God has the ability to get us where He wants us inspite of ourselves. Love you sis🥰🌹
ReplyDeleteAgreed, thank you - love you too, Donna!
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