War in Air-Witchcraft in Fog-I Beckon You

Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed
on Him, "If you continue in My Word, then are
you My disciples indeed; And you shall know
the truth, and the truth
shall make you free. [Jn 8:31-32]

[Note:* Updated Dec 14, 2025: Added more info about pastor Zac Poonen, a man I already respect. My memory was jolted watching a video recently. I also recalled a few videos of his that I watched in the long-ago past. I do remember his sincerity (and the way he shot straight from the hip). 

I recall him as a likeable and good teacher. However, not being committed (let alone surrendered to Jesus/Yeshua), I was easily distracted by other things and different teachers (some being false or worse), yet it also included being distracted from other true ones anointed by God as well].

The part about 'respect' will explain itself as I present the means by which this humble man has always lovingly supported himself and his beloved family, and what he is satisfied to take as work and wages. More of his personal info (wife and family) is added.

I also updated info that was outdated. This preacher sticks to the true gospel of Jesus Christ [Yeshua Mashiach]. Zac Poonen acts without exploit or coercion. You will not witness deception, manipulation of the gospel or scriptures taken out of context. 

You will not hear false prophecies such as those heard by the certain false prophets within NAR,  the prosperity gospel, the New Age and New Thought movements. Nor does not pastor Zac compromise or manipulate scripture for the sake of financial self-gain or popularity, such as the prosperity preachers and the teachers, and false prophets of NAR. 

Instead, if you watch videos of his sermons, or interviews, and Bible studies, or read articles anywhere from mere days or to decades apart, all throughout you will see actions (and hear testimonies), or read words that consistently exalts Christ Jesus (focus is on Him throughout), and reflects integrity and love. You will hear truth and notice his respect for family, friends, congregation, neighbours, and strangers. (End of update) - BP]                        

Salvation paid for with Christ's blood.
Died, was buried, and resurrected.
He is soon returning! Day and hour not known
- Jesus told people what signs to look for...
[1Cor15:3-4;Mat 24:27,30,36]

There is no rush anymore on my part to try and keep up with others. I used to put unnecessary pressure upon myself with the time it took separating fact from fiction, with research, and with organizing material because when it took too long, the thought was that I was letting the Lord and people down by not keeping up in this digital age. That is why I say, 'unnecessary' pressure.

Also, mainstream media [MSM] not always, but quite often, misleadingly dubs LIES as 'misinformation' and  'disinformation', in order to hide truth, (therefore, separating lies from truth), while at the same time mixing it in with actual 'dis' and 'mis' information. BULL-oney baffles brains!

I temporarily accepted the lie that I had to keep up, or risk disappointing the Lord (and readers). The adversary (Satan) often speaks in the first person, meaning he injects thoughts or sentences into our mind that we are absolutely positive that they are our own thoughts, but it is trickery. The devil is the instigator, whose agenda is to take our minds off of Christ. 

Yes, deception can be that subtle. When we believe anything, even if it is only for a short time, then we were temporarily deceived. No one likes to admit that they fell for something that was not true. Pride is subtle also.

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. [2Cor 10:5]

Thank Jesus for sending the Holy Spirit. It is Him and His leading who I can thank  for getting me back on track. He is worthy of full credit and acknowledgement. How many times over these past almost two decades on this blog (17 years - 2008) have I encouraged brethren that our work together is not a competition, it is team effort? We need each other, and we all need Jesus Christ.

It is working together harmoniously to achieve a goal (namely, to further the kingdom of God) with Jesus/Yeshua's help via the Holy Spirit. In truth, I just came through a bit of a spiritual slump, but praise God with a thankful heart, for good and true friends (who also happen to be brethren). It is worth being held accountable. It really a good thing!

Friends who not only pray, but also take time out of a busy, sometimes hectic schedule to send an encouraging email, with choice scriptures, are a gift from God and a treasure to protect. I love the Word of God.

No matter how many times we may read through the Bible, it is so rich that the right scripture at the right time [when our spirit needs uplifting and strengthening the most], the Word is so perfect in accomplishing its purpose that it truly is the wisdom and foresight of El Shaddai alone.

So shall My Word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. [Is 55:11]

(Just like the timing of God), when coming out of that slump, an email was received with a link that led to a video with a solid teaching of Pastor Zac Poonen. I fully intend to listen to more of his lessons and sermons. I remember now that years ago (perhaps 20?), a friend at that time had sent me a link to a video that first introduced me to Zac Poonen, which, back then, I found most uplifting. 

I did not follow up with brother Zac at that time (and I am convinced he is a brother-in-Christ), as I was not well-settled in the Lord back then. I have believed in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit the majority of my life. 

However, I am now wholly surrendered, and being fully surrendered really makes a big difference. I have moments, naturally, where I have to beat that old flesh back down into submission; we are to daily nail it to the spiritual cross. 

The difference is because the fruit that comes [in time] with full surrender is [spiritual] maturity, increased discernment (which comes from familiarity with the Word, as well as our experiences), but also wisdom that is learned through trials and tribulations. 

If we were church hurt by abusive leaders, or suffered consequences due to false doctrines, we gain a stronger and deeper appreciation of good, solid teachers. 

Wisdom and the Holy Spirit help us to give up our 'independence' and lean wholly on the Lord like healthy grapes that cling to a healthy branch/vine (Jesus is the Vine). More exposure to wolves in sheep's clothing, false teachers, false prophets, and hypocritical Christians (like hard taskmasters, like the Pharisees), help and train us as well as teach us secure that appreciation. 

When our heart is intent on seeking truth (always starting with Jesus because He IS truth), I believe the Lord protects and guides us by His precious and Holy Spirit. Time is running short, and good teachers have been hard to find. All of us have watched with heavy hearts as the revealing of sin in the churches has been uncovered. Yet it is a good thing; the Lord is cleaning house. 

For the time is come that judgment begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? [1Pet4:17]

I don't think most of us realized the depth of hypocrisy and deception that had crept into the church through false brethren, demons, and other infiltrators until the Lord began revealing that which has been hidden, just as He promised.

Zac and Annie Poonen
1968 wedding

Zac is 86 years old, formerly an Indian Naval Officer. He lives in Bangalore, India with his wife of 56 [almost 57] years. According to a quick search, he has been a Christian for 56 years. [Correction: almost 60 years; converted in 1966] 

Zac Poonen and his beloved wife Annie are the parents of four sons, who are now adults with families of their own. Their sons are: Sanjay, Santosh, Sandeep, and Sunil. They are all born-again, Holy Spirit-filled Christians, and so are their wives.

The children and grandchildren are all believers as well. they all follow in the footsteps of Zac and Annie and attend the Christian Fellowship Church. How wonderful when the faith continues on throughout the family down the generations. Glory be to God!

He is apostle over New Covenant Christian Fellowship. Before anyone judges him on 'apostleship', he is not pretending to be as the original twelve who walked with Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah. Nor is he in the role described by prosperity teaching or NAR.

The original twelve (12) that Yeshua chose were presentative of the 12 tribes of Israel, but they were also appointed to train, to be witnesses for Jesus' ministry, and to go out [into all the world] to preach the good news (the gospel of Jesus Christ). They were to deliver possessed and oppressed people from demons, heal the sick, and for salvation (to bring them into the kingdom of God through faith in Jesus the Christ/Yeshua the Messiah).

Zac Poonen (from his biography) began serving the Lord (as stated, nearly 60 years ago), after he finished serving as an Indian Naval Officer. He is responsible for numerous churches globally. He is the preacher, as well as one of the elders [from a plurality] at the New Covenant Christian Fellowship in Bangalore. 

He has written several articles extensively, and is also the author of 25 books, all of which are written not only in Indian, but  also in English and other foreign languages. 

He has not received royalties from any of his books that are published by Christian Fellowship Centre. All of Zac Poonen's materials [sermons and interviews] are available freely on YouTube and at https://cfcindia.com .ALL of his written work is available not only at the website (link) but at other various outlets, all of which is distributed at no charge.

Brother Poonen is a tentmaker by trade [just like the apostle Paul] He takes no salary for his services. As an elder Zac accepts no remuneration whatsoever for his work, and neither do any of the other elders at the church. 

and because he [Aquila] was of the same craft, he abode with them, and worked: for by their occupation they were tentmakers. [Acts 18:4]

This is what I was referring to when I said Zac has my utmost respect. I marvel at the fact that he takes no money for ministering as a preacher, and takes no royalties from his books, when countless others are monetizing everything they do online these days. What Zac Poonen does is a rarity.

I am very grateful to the Holy Spirit who promises to set us on the path that leads us to solid teachers, who glorify Jesus/Yeshua, and exalt El Shaddai (Adonai) on high. At the same time, He will lead us to the place where we will discern, and learn to discern, the false ones. 

We know the Lord will give those who have gone astray an opportunity to repent and turn back to Him. He keeps a watchful eye. He knows the heart. People can deceive others; and sadly, sometimes we can deceive ourselves, but that is usually if we are trying to burn both ends of a candle (compromise). 

We may fool others, but we cannot fool God! Let me be perfectly clear here. I most certainly would never put anyone on a pedestal and cause them to undergo the undeserved humiliation of being some kind of idol. 

I will not fall into the trap of idolatry again (there was a time shamefully I did). Thank God for opening my eyes to my sin, but even more so, for the opportunity to repent, and for forgiveness. It was long ago, but sin is sin.

Neither would I put brother Zac Poonen under the pressure of living up to some kind of ridiculous manmade 'high standard'. No one, no teacher, no pastor--no one person is perfect, andto  but we allow ourselves to be taught SOLID doctrine, not doctrine of demons, or lukewarm, whitewashed gospel messages.

Then, we share -- we share to help a brother, a sister - and glorify our King, our Jesus. Before I move on to the quick message I plan to post, I would like to share a couple of nuggets, courtesy of preacher Zac. Allow Jesus to providentially answer your prayers. He will. 

First Nugget

God's Word is a real treasure
purified gold

For sin shall not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but under grace. [Rom 6:14]

Brother Poonen said it took him 56 years of struggling as a Christian before he discovered a simple secret. And that's just it. If we can just allow ourselves to be taught by others, instead of thinking we have to have all the answers, this walk can be so much easier. Pride can be so subtle.

Zac said that for most of his Christian walk he carried a heavy burden. To cut to the quick and to put it simply, he read the above scripture as a command rather than a promise.

Here is the difference, as he explained it. [I hope I can do it justice; he explained it so eloquently] Brother Poonen said that most often we tend to depend more upon our flesh more than on the Holy Spirit. 

Sin "should not be" master over you - is how most of us read the above scripture. Zac admitted that that is how he himself read it all those times, for all those years. It was a verse Zac struggled with because "should not be master" caused him to put it in the perspective of a "command". 

Bro Zac continues: "But when we read it as "sin shall not be" master over you - it is a promise - a promise of God!"  "Do you see the difference?" he asked. Lightbulbs turned on in my head too, but for a different reason. I will explain shortly. 

When the scripture [Rom 6:14] is read as a 'command', it is a heavy burden one must carry. It is something that we, as a person, have to do. That was the point that Bro Poonen was emphasizing.

However, when we receive it as a promise, it is something that God says HE will do for us. It is saying that God is not abandoning His sheep to any hardship the scripture (or the devil) may put on us through misunderstanding. He removes the burden. Grace, it is the grace of God when it goes from a command to a promise.

Now I will explain. (This is part of the update added to this article because I did not think of it originally, but I thought it should be included.) It was understood how Zac Poonen's interpreted the verse, and the lesson he gleaned from it through the power of the Holy Spirit.

It was then that his sharing the scripture with others struck me as wisdom and motivated me to further share his keen insight here, in case someone else was struck with the same problem, which can very likely happen indeed.

We are not under the LAW; we are under grace. Zac says the meaning of 'law' means that we are going to try and overcome sin by our own struggle...a never-ending, wearisome struggle (heavy laden).

Heads up? Oh no, umm, I am just
hanging out...

A heavy burden lifted in the light of differentiating between a 'command' and a 'promise'; the law versus grace. Jesus did indeed set us free, on so many levels. Praise be to God!

Whether it is in the translation, I do not know because the KJV (King James Version) Bible is written in old English, which may be the reason it caused Brother Poonen to understand the scripture as he did. I personally did not struggle with the verse that way, but that is likely because English is my first language.

If others struggle, then his explanation would be wonderfully helpful. For that reason, I chose to publish it here. even if it can set even one soul free, then, mission accomplished, all to the glory of God, and thanks to Zac Poonen.

Come unto Me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [Mat 11:28]

Just as Jesus/Yeshua promised. He gives us rest. One thing we gained in the Garden of Eden (along with a fallen nature) is our "independence". We can do it, we say!

We do not need someone else when we can manage something just fine on our own. Right? Or can we? If God pulls the rug out from under us (pulls the carpet of pride we float around on, high above everything else like some kind of a magic carpet, over the heads of people below us...oh, oh!) 

Pull that rug out from under us and see how independent we are. lol (I jest, but it is not always funny  which I can attest to that as well.)

But we are under GRACE; then 'grace' is going to help us overcome sin. That does not mean we compromise or slip in and out of sin at will (greasy grace). God forbid! 

He says, so if you are weary and heavy laden (sick and tired of being defeated and wondering why), the Lord invites us to come to Him. This teacher, Zac Poonen explains it splendidly. Hopefully that helps someone else if they are struggling the way it helped him.

The pastor stated that he had discovered throughout the years that there are only a certain category of people who really enter into the Spirit-filled life of overcoming. And not only overcoming, but empowerment for service. He insisted that it is open to everyone, to all of us, but not everyone enters in.

He said most Christians never enter into it, even before they die, which saddened him. It is an hour long video, which I have not watched in full. Nevertheless, if you would like to hear him explain how to lessen this struggle, he speaks far more eloquently than I do. The lesson is contained within the first 10-15 minutes if you would like to check it out. Under Grace Zac Poonen (struggled for 56 years, then discovered a secret) 

Be a Zero 

One other quick nugget, from the same teacher (Zac Poonen). It has to do with being nothing. Sounds depressing, hey? lol 

He made a list of things important to people, things high up in life to them. They are: 

wealth,[0] beauty,[0] position,[0] personality,[0] education,[0] sports,[0] intellect[0] 

Whatever you strive for, whatever is important to you, people put great value on those things, some material, and other things being what they are strong in. Many believe they are the most qualified and desire to lead.

This going to be the Reader's Digest [condensed] version.

Bro Zac said, "No! We need to become zeros."

He reminds us that a zero is nothing. It is absolutely of no value. No matter how many you put together, no matter how strong it looks when they are all huddled together, a whole group of zeroes is still that - zero.

They are of no value or worth UNLESS something GREATER than a zero is put in front of it. Only when something greater is placed BEFORE the zero, or comes FIRST, only then does the zero have value. 

Therefore we have to become zeroes, and something GREATER than us has to come FIRST. Jesus has to be first. The whole bunch of us zeroes becomes something of exponential value and worth when Jesus is placed BEFORE us!

When we become zeros, and put Christ Jesus (Messiah Yeshua) first, then we have value; our worth increases. Without Him, we can do nothing [nothing of eternal worth and value]. With Him, we are valuable, refined as silver is refined, and purified as gold is purified.

I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in Me, and I in Him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without Me, you can do nothing. [Jn 15:5]

I thought that was another nugget of gold from brother Zac Poonen and wanted to share it with people.

I Beckon You

 This word was posted back in 2022. I am led to post it now.                      

I pray it blesses you.

I beckon you – I am calling, come deeper. I am doing a good work in you; for I am the Potter. My vessels of honour are being prepared, as all things align to My will. Those who heed My call are the ones who will do My will. Great shall be the reward. Selah

The season of consequences has ended; it has been served in full. The hour of silent suffering comes to an end. All these years I have encouraged you by reminding you that one day is as a thousand years to Me, and that My timing is not as yours.

Now the appointed time arrives. Yet as little children, My people are impatient. Let all unfold decently and in order, for all My promises are true. Come deeper and stay in the presence of My glory for a while, and the peace and power to wait will be your portion, as I give it freely to those who trust and wait upon Me.

Come to Me and I will answer you in ways that you would not expect, but will know it is from Me.

Behold you among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvellously: for I will work a work in your days, which you will not believe, though it be told you. [Hab 1:5] NKJV

https://crossinthewilderness.blogspot.com/2022/12/deep-calls-unto-deep.html

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear Him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah Jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen. [Gen 22:14]

And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it, Jehovah Nissi: For he said, Because the LORD has sworn that the Lord will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.  [Ex 17:15,16]

Immanuel – Emmanuel

Isaiah 9 (garments rolled in blood – [vs 6] unto a child is born, Wonderful, Counselor, the mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace

My people, trouble comes from within the country, controlled by the 'greater' outside the nation. The harlotry and witchcraft of those who hide in darkness, who hide in secret, has not gone unnoticed by Me

for His glory alone

Bonita                       dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com

A Time to Be Silent

Four long months have passed since I last posted. It has been a "helluva" season, but God orders the seasons and the times. The Lord is good and His mercy endures forever. As I begin posting, it will all come together, and may the Spirit of God be in the writings, for His glory.

A Time to Be Silent

Sometimes we have to be silent and wait upon God’s timing.

…a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence and a time to speak;  [Eccl 3:7]

Sometimes we have to go through things to give testimony (no trial or tribulation; no testimony).

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.  [1Pet 1:7]

Sometimes the refiner is a work. When He is, the dross must be removed; and the purity will be tested severely.

And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on My name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is My people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God. [Zech 13:9]

Behold, I have refined you, but not with silver; I have chosen you in the furnace of affliction.

He must increase, but I must decrease. [Jn 3:30] 

Moses vs. Jesus - old covenant vs. new covenant - law vs. grace 

In other words, it is CHRIST [Messiah] that must be seen in us (HE increases) but the law must decrease (for the law, in which mankind failed [we could not measure up to perfectly obey the law]: law = the old covenant). 

That does not mean the law is null and void and we can live lawlessly.

It means:

Yeshua (our Jesus) was the 'perfect' Lamb, without spot, blemish, or wrinkle. In other words, He never sinned. He willingly offered up His life (for this reason, He came) as a sacrifice to satisfy the penalty of sin [disobedience to God equals separation from God which is spiritual death]. His death fulfilled the demands of the law.

That is why Yeshua (Jesus the Christ) is the ONLY way to be reconciled back to the holy, living God, spiritually 'born-again' (never to be separated from God again)

Indeed, He (Yeshua/Jesus) must increase [new covenant - grace]; I must decrease [old covenant, the 'old man' who disobeyed the law]

Yeshua compared John the Baptist [prophet] to the spirit of Elijah. John represented the old covenant. The prophet was a voice crying out in the wilderness: "Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make His paths straight." [Is 40:3; Lk 3:4]

(By that John the Baptist meant to 'prepare for Jesus, the Messiah and Saviour, by repentance and changing the heart, turning away from sin.)

• Moses                                        • Jesus

• old covenant                               • new covenant

• law                                            • grace

• blood (animal sacrifice, heifer)     • blood of [unblemished] Lamb =                                                                          Jesus/Yeshua   ram for forgiveness of sins                                                          Saviour whose death and resurrection made                                                        a way to be forgiven; reconciled back to God

Judging Between Sheep and Sheep

During these past four months, I had thought that perhaps I was one of the ones that the Lord was telling to “stand down”, that perhaps somehow I had failed or was weighed in the balances and found wanting. O, how I searched my heart; how I prayed [with the Holy Spirit's help]!

Back in 2012 (when I was still in USA, and when Obama was elected again, second term), the instruction came to write: Now It Begins

It was multi-faceted, and I intend to touch on it in another chapter, but not now; not here in this portion of my writing. 

This much only I will say. It is the beginning of a downward slope where things will start slowly but build momentum. It will be fast-moving and overwhelming by the time the great tribulation Jesus/Yeshua spoke of will begin. 

It is all written out for anyone to read in the Word of God. And for what we do not understand, there are still some godly men preachers/teachers who do not stray from the truth of scriptures, or twist them. They can explain. 

I know there is much I do not yet clearly understand, but as I learn, I share. And the plain truth is that there will be gaps and things that none of us will know until it happens, or until God Almighty reveals it to us, whichever comes first.

Then, in 2013, the Lord kept putting in my spirit about separating, a dividing; not only in exposing tares (though it was not time for removal) and the wheat (his doing), but division in relationships – family, brethren, work; marriages, friendships (enemy’s doing).

Then, in late 2013 or early 2014, the Holy Spirit led me to scripture in Ezekiel, where the Lord spoke through the prophet about judging between cattle and cattle. In my spirit man, I understood that the Lord was judging those who call themselves by His name. (Judgment had begun.)

For the time has come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begins with us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God. [1Pet 4:17]

He was angered at the shepherds fleecing the flock, the witchcraft in many of the churches, unholy prayers that tried to manipulate God (instead of willingly doing His will), praying in a way that He would be convinced to do “their will”, and certain Christians whose prayers were more like curses (witchcraft). The python spirit (spirit of divination) is rampant. This greatly displeased the Lord.

Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus says the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?

You eat the fat, and you clothe yourself with the wool, you kill them that are fed: but you feed not the flock.

The diseased have you not strengthened, neither have you healed that which was sick, neither have you bound up that which was broken, neither have you brought again that which was driven away, neither have you sought that which was lost; but with force and cruelty have you ruled them. [Ezek 34:2-4]

Serious Separation

So, in 2013, the Lord warned of a 'separating', judgment, and also division. In 2015, 2016, and 2017, He continued to warn the people (self included).

A couple of days before the end of last year, on December 29, the Lord placed ideas for an article upon my heart. On New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2017, He led me to post it. 

Here is an excerpt from that writing:

“A grieving is heard in the heavenlies, and hot tears are seen upon the faces of many of My people, for I am answering prayers for truth to be revealed, to protect them from deception. Therefore, there is a witnessing of sheep being separated from sheep. It is true, for it is written that the goats shall be separated from the sheep and the tares from the wheat. I am judging between sheep and sheep.”

And as for you, O my flock, thus says the Lord God; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle (sheep and sheep), between the rams and the he-goats.  [Ezek 34:17]

Yea, I tell you that sheep are being separated from sheep, for it is a necessity in these latter times.

Her priests have violated My law, and have profaned My holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shown difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from My Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. [Ezek 22:26] 

He goes on to speak against greedy shepherds, false prophets, lazy watchmen, and some of the sheep in the flocks that love to have their ears tickled, and are moved about by every wind of doctrine and every false prophesy that is comfortable to hear.

He spoke of the striking [certain] shepherd(s) and the flock would scatter. He also foretold of church buildings whose doors would close, never to reopen.  He reminds us that we have the power to “choose”. He warned of false brethren, unforgiveness, pride, bitterness, and anger, justifying sins and no desire to repent, despite the warnings. He led me to write:

“Yes, a division is happening. Not only are unbelievers divided against believers/disciples of Christ, but also a dividing [division] happening among the sheep as well.”

And further along:

“I have risen from My throne. The shaking increases – judgment falls, and has been falling for some time. It shall increase. It is moving over the lands as surely as death moved over Egypt at the time that the firstborn of both man and beast were slain [Ex 11:5], when Pharaoh’s hard heart had no fear of the Creator of all things.”

The article is called: On the Verge of the Great and Terrible

The Lord made it very clear that many Christians have "no fear of the Lord". There was a time I had no fear of the Lord. The very thought now appalls me.

Time of Revealing

Since that prophetic writing on New Year’s Eve last year (2017), so much has gone down, not just globally but in the personal lives of multitudes, self included. In fact, in the past four months, since the last post, I had more than once thought that I was one of the ones the Lord was having “stand down”; and that the separating of the sheep had passed over me, and I was found on the side that was not the remnant, like the 10,000 in Gideon’s army that returned home because fear ruled in their heart.

Satan is the father of lies. He works with the fallen flesh of mankind, hoping to trap us with some temptation (we all vary in our strengths and weaknesses - your strength may be my weakness, and vice versa). 

We must be keen in discerning Satan's voice, our flesh, or the Shepherd's. Satan/Lucifer is the master deceiver; there is no truth in him. He may borrow a truth but twist it to deceive you. He is the author of confusion, and confusion is rampant in the fog of war, but trust the Spirit of God in every battle because for this reason (salvation) Messiah came. [Is 9:5]

Although I previously mentioned the part above, it is important to understand that if you are keeping a repentant heart and cleaving to the Lord, He will let you know. It is good if we do not think more highly of ourselves than we ought, but do not let Satan rob you of your right standing with God...never, because he will try.

Together, the Holy Spirit and you have come a long way on a narrow path. There have been obstacles, traps, and rugged terrain where knees got skinned, and egos got bruised, perhaps even crushed. It is good to let pride go - we all struggle with it, some much more than others.

. 

The Lord is faithful always to help us. He never leaves or forsakes. Do not fall for the lies of Satan, his demonic legions, or any enemy of the cross and of Christ.

In the upcoming articles, this will be expounded upon, but not here, not now. I simply want to say that many have been going through fire and storms (trials and tribulations), but for many, it was the trying of our faith to see what is in our hearts. It is a process. It was not the first (for the majority) - it won't be the last.

Remember, on the last day of last year (2017), He forewarned His people about greedy shepherds, false prophets, lazy watchmen, false brethren, and more. However, in the months following, beginning the first day of January 2018, of which we are now in the sixth month, the Lord has been trying (testing) us to see whether we love God with all our heart, mind, and soul; to see what is in our heart.

And you shall remember all the way which the Lord your God led you these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you, and to prove (test) you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments, or no. [Deut 8:2]

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. [Jer 17:10]

Remember how Adam had been given one commandment to test him and to see what was in his heart (whether obedience or not) and if he would obey the Word of God?  We too can expect this test, though it will not be the commandment to not eat the fruit of a particular tree (though God could command that) but to see if we will obey His Word (Bible).

Yes, I had thought that after all my years of writing and warning people, and urging people to repent and walk holy and circumspectly, I thought these past four months were a trial in which I had failed. What a frightening and horrifying thought, a heart-wrenching possibility! Not just to fail a loving God, and the rescuer of my soul as well as my very salvation, but to fail and be a hypocrite to boot!

Humility and Repentance

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you.

Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, says the Lord God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.

And they went out and preached that men should repent. [Ezek 18:30; Mk6:12]

But we also have an adversary who is often used in the testing of our faith and obedience. He is the strong and cruel accuser of the brethren!

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. [1Pet 5:6-9]

Within the next couple of days, I will post the next article. For those who feel like giving up; the name of the series should come as both an exhortation and an encouragement: You are not alone; the Lord Jesus/Yeshua is always with you. We CAN NOT go by feelings - they will fail us. We cannot go by our thoughts - they are fickle and often dependent on our surroundings and other factors.

Jesus never fails. We may not understand or like what God allows to happen, or allows what we must go through, but He sees so much more than we do. We have to learn, to come to a place where we trust God/Jesus no matter what. It is not always easy. That is the truth.

Don’t Quit Just Before the Finish Line

Two preachers I had great respect for, likely because they seemed like men who were good fathers, but more importantly, men who loved the true, living God, YHWH, and exalted Jesus/Yeshua above all, both spoke about never giving up.

I did not follow either one when they were alive. Derek Prince was a new name to me about 2009/10, and even then I did not respond immediately to checking him out. His sermon about not giving up was the one that caught my attention.

David Wilkerson wrote a book called "The Cross and the Switchblade", which was lent to me in my 30s. It was a book that left a lasting impression upon me because after I was returned from kidnapping, my first drug of choice was heroin, but I did not know it was addictive. I never got addicted to it, and when I stopped about six months later (I never did it daily or anything), but I never returned to it. (THAT alone had to be Jesus, not me!)

Don't give up was his message to the lost. But it was how David had such compassion and understanding for the street kids, the gangs, the drug addicts and prostitutes that captured my heart. What kind of love is that, I had wondered.

I received some of his newsletters before he passed, and watched a few videos of Pastor Wilkerson's, but had only committed about six years before he passed. but I remember being deeply saddened when I heard about his untimely death. 

A great depth of sorrow swept over me when his beloved wife passed about a year later...and my heart went out to their children and grandchildren. David Wilkerson also said something profound about 'giving up' that I still remember to this day, although it's been about

For me, giving up is rarely an option, but I have had my moments, and may have moments again when I think I cannot possibly make it. The intent is certainly not in giving up on Jesus, since He Himself is forever a treasure.

He is the King, Lord and Saviour of the kingdom of heaven, the kingdom whose beauty, value/worth which is likened to that of a great pearl, and how a soul should 'treasure' such a find.

Was it a matter of lacking the confidence in my strength to finish running the race, or was it more a matter of 'trust', knowing who it is that gives the strength - correction -- who IS my strength when I am weak?

When I was young, I trusted everyone who smiled and spoke kindly or in a non-threatening way. After I was kidnapped on my 16th birthday, I trusted few. After marrying an abusive, alcoholic man (which was rebellion since God let me know beforehand that I was not to marry him), who even trespassed against his own children, I trusted no one.

Through time, repentance, testing, godly sorrow and brokenness, forgiving, and more, the Lord helped me to build up trust in Him, step by step, from glory to glory - the very one who deserved automatic trust was the very one most patient in understanding and waiting. The Lord balances all things if we let Him do His work in us, and work with Him.

God is patient and kind, but He is no fool. I had no real guidance in my faith (it's a long story - another time), although I wanted to understand. He really picked from the bottom of the pile when He pulled me out of my stench - I am so grateful. Few others would stoop so low, but God /Jesus is like no other - NONE!

The two men, Derek Prince and David Wilkerson (alphabetical order) both had thought-provoking, faith-cementing statements regarding "giving up". Let's put it in simplistic and paraphrased order here, if I may.

(Of course I may - the privilege of having my own blog lol) 

Derek Prince basically stated that when God is testing us, or when we are in a situation that seems never-ending [yes, even if it has gone on for 30-40 years - even Abraham waited 25 years, Joseph of the Hebrew tribes (Jacob's sons) waited 13 years], God never says it is a six-month trial and you only have one more day to go before it is over.

We have to wait, NOT knowing how long a trial (test) or tribulation will be, and endure to the end. Many give up. Some fall, determined that it is enough, but then chose to rise again. Good.

It is not the falling down that defines you, it is what you do when you RISE back UP and go forward, determined to HOLD FAST to Christ, STANDING FIRMLY upon the Rock, a sure and solid foundation, ENDURING to the end.

Submit to God (sweet surrender - so many despise that, pride says, 'You're no slave, do not surrender - they lack understanding). 

What is Abraham gave up after 24 years, 11 months, and 23 hours, not knowing there was only ONE hour left? What if Joseph gave up after he interpreted the dreams of the pharaoh's wine taster and his baker, instead of waiting the two years out?

And to those who think Abraham and Sarah gave up when Abraham went to Hagar [Sarah's handmaiden] and she conceived Ishmael means they gave up, no longer trusting in God or His promise. The answer is "No".

Impatience is not to be mistaken for giving up. Abraham and Sarah believed God, but in their minds (looking at the outward appearance), they were no longer young, and it had already been ten years [a decade] since the promise. 

Derek Prince had the right idea. God does not tell us how long a test or a tribulation will be. He knows we are impatient creatures. I believe that is why the time of our departure from these earthen vessels is kept from us also. How could we enjoy life doing a "count-down" to our time -- and the pressure! The Lord is wise in all His ways.

So, Prince encourages us not to give up because we could be on the last day, and what a shame to call it 'quits' then, when we were so close.

David Wilkerson not only encouraged those in the sheepfold, but he also encouraged the children he was raising. He strongly endorses endurance, stating emphatically that the last half hour of a test or a tribulation is the hardest part. That is the time that most people give up and quit, having no more strength to go on. But he explains it.

How many of us cry out saying, the harder I try (to do things properly or as instructed), the worse it gets. The closer I walk with Jesus, the more everything comes against me. Because of your closeness, you are a target - you are a threat to the adversary's kingdom!

Or you may say, the more I read the Word and study it, the more other voices come at me, bringing confusion - whether it is the devil (and his minions), my flesh (with its desires, wants, and needs, or at least what it 'thinks' it needs), or other voices in the world, along with their temptations.

Satan is the author of confusion, and his intent is to have your faith destroyed, and then have unbelief give way to a reprobate mind. Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy, 

Brother Wilkerson reminds us that there could only be a half hour left, that is all, but the intensity of the test or the tribulation can weary us, leaving us at the place where we say we have had enough, just as Job, Moses, Elijah, Jeremiah, and other men of God did.

Believing, prayer, sweat, pain, tears, faith, trust, perseverance - this is the investment that is placed in things that we believe God for, holding fast to Messiah in faith, trusting His promises, both corporate (for all believers) and personal (between Yahweh and any one of His own).

The prayers of the saints envelope all these things - all the tear-soaked praise, all the sweat of perseverance, fueled by the pain of endless hope that has kept the weary during the turbulent storms in the spiritual realm; storms that continue to beat against a house, threatening to bring it down with its violent winds and stinging pellets of rain.

It is dramatized by thunderous outbursts [the angry rhetoric of the opposition] and blinding flashes of lightning [unexpected clashes from the enemies of darkness against the children of light].

The spiritual war is constant; the battles have been planned from long ago and are being carried out strategically. Yet, the book of Revelation unveils the victory that Yeshua and all who are His gain as spoil in the end. God's kingdom wins. There should be no doubt, and all will bow to Christ Jesus in the end.

Wilkerson's warning that the hardest part of the test, tribulation (trial) or battle is in the half hour [where most friends flee], and just before the victory. Most people  give up in the last half hour. 

Hold fast, beloved soul, hold tight God Almighty through Jesus Christ, even though it is the hardest part of the test, the trial, or the battle, needs to be earnestly obeyed. I cannot remember who said it but it is akin "the strongest onslaught is just before the victoryl" 

And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said to me, See you do it not: I am your fellow-servant, and of your brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. [Rev 19:19]

for His glory

Bonita                                   dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com