Battle above the Clouds - Part 5

February 14, 2013 – [o2.14.2o13] 

Battle above the Clouds - Part 5 

There will be several links in this part of the series, which will be presented for those who may want to read further on a particular subject if they so choose. 

There is Breaking News further on about the meteor shower that took place in Russia.

Fear 

Therefore rejoice, you heavens, and you that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has but a short time.  [Rev 12:12]

The adversary has worked hard to bring fear upon the earth, even amongst believers.  Many, including myself, have had to recognize the ‘spirit of fear’ and overcome it.  Circumstances and events, not only happening around the world, but in our own personal lives, are at a place that has never been seen before…and this is only the beginning of what is to come.

For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  [2Tim 1:7]

There is much that is keeping people distracted and fearful.  In several articles, I have often posted the scripture about ‘perfect love casts out fear, for fear has torment’, which is found in 1 John 4, verse eighteen. 

However, if we are honest with ourselves, all of us have had to overcome fear at some point in our walk.  Fear may have come to us due to a serious health problem, personal relationships, financial distress, accidents, persecution, betrayal or any number of tragic events.

As we grow in the Lord, we learn to lean on Him, to praise Him in all things and to trust Him to bring us through.  He strengthens us as we look to Him.  Even the mightiest warriors, both in the world and in the Bible, had times of fear.  

The statement ‘fear not’ is found 62 times in scripture; ‘be not afraid’ is found 26 times; ‘feared’ is found no less than 53 times, when it does not pertain to verses that state, ‘feared the Lord’ or ‘feared the word of the Lord’.

E-sword gives 144 verses and 331 matches for: Fear not.

Moses feared when it was discovered that he killed an Egyptian.  When Abram was approaching Egypt, he feared that Pharaoh would kill him and take his wife, so he told Sarai to say that she was his sister.  There are countless examples in the Bible of people who went through times of fear.  Samuel, Elijah, David, the apostles and countless others are given as examples.

All the people mentioned knew the Lord their God, yet they had times when they had to learn to overcome fear.  I certainly wonder about anyone who would say that they do not ever have fear.  The Lord’s angels often started with ‘fear not’, when men trembled in their presence. 

We learn to pray, abide, watch our words (speaking life and not death) and praise our Lord in all situations.  It is always difficult to wait on the Lord for answers or for His timing of intervention, yet we learn patience.  The Lord is faithful to teach us as we read His word and spend intimate time with Him.  I have found the Lord faithful to let His people know what is happening and what to expect, as they cleave to Him.  

There is not one single believer who has not made mistakes along their faith walk.  As hard as we try not to err, we will occasionally make mistakes in life, as we are not perfect.  When the Lord speaks of being perfect, He is speaking of becoming complete in Him, becoming mature children.  He was/is not speaking about being without error, flawless.  We make mistakes.

God knows when we offer our finest in any given task, desiring to be obedient and to please Him. He does not see as man sees.  Our Father does not look upon the outward appearance, but He indeed sees the heart and our efforts.  

He knows when we have offered our very best and He accepts it, no matter how imperfect it may seem to be by man’s standards.  Just like the little drummer boy, we offer up all that we have, no matter how insignificant it may seem to others.  Our Creator knows us and is well-pleased when we give Him our all.

Being Aware

We have to be aware of what is going on around us.  Yes, we are focusing on Jesus the Christ, but even more so, we must be abiding, seriously abiding.  The Lord has been warning us for years (some of us only woke up sometime in the last decade or less).  

There is much going on around us and I do realize that you do not need me to tell you this.  However, we must come to realize that Satan and his minions have already begun their campaign of putting fear upon men, particularly believers. 

It is true that multitudes have prayed to be strengthened for that which is coming.  Over the past couple of months, there has been enough correspondence by email and by phone to know that fear has touched many a soul.  Yet, we are overcoming - all of us, in whatever areas we are weak.  We all have weaknesses; we cannot deceive ourselves. 

Yet again, those of us who believe are not only clinging to the Lord, but we are remembering to put into practice all that we have been taught in the Word and by the Holy Spirit.  I cannot emphasize enough right now the importance of pressing in and to be sure that each one of us, individually, are in the Father’s will.  God is faithful to nudge us, as we all tend to forget and need reminders.

It is true that we are not to be overly focused on the evil that is happening around us, but neither are we to turn a blind eye.  We have to be sure our lamps are filled with oil.  It is a fact that we learn discernment by knowing the Word of God, as well as through the Holy Spirit and what we learn from our experiences.  

Those who have been delivered from demons (such as myself) can discern the evil spirits that they have been delivered from or been exposed to very quickly.  It is true that the Lord works all things together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.  [Rom 8:28]  

It is true that when we repent, abide, and walk in faith and obedience, He can turn what was meant for evil to good, just as He did for Jacob’s son Joseph.

The Lord wants us aware of the enemy and what he is up to, as well as what is going on in the world and all around the globe, both on the earth and atmospherically.  All of God’s people, from Noah to the apostles, knew what was going on all around them, from the government to the common man, as well as in the land and the skies.  

We must be aware also, although countless either do not see and hear, or choose to deny all that is taking place. No matter what the Lord does or speaks through us, we do well to remember that we are just one vessel amongst many; we are just one part of the Body.  

We must walk humbly before a holy and just God and not think of ourselves more highly than we ought.  The Body has need of each other; we need to pray for one another.  None of us can do anything without the Head, Jesus/Y’shua.  

The Trying of Our Faith

He is allowing our faith to be tried as never before.  He wants us to look to Him and not focus on the circumstances or look to people.  That can sometimes be very difficult for the flesh, but we do well to remember that the arm of flesh cannot save, but the Lord’s arm is not shortened that He cannot save.   

He will encourage us along the way, correct us, comfort and strengthen us, especially in the times when it feels like more than we can bear.  He is very, very close to the broken and contrite spirit.  Though everyone around us may forsake us and turn their backs on us, He will not.

Weeping may endure for a night (or even a season), but joy comes in the morning.  When we seem to have fallen into a bottomless pit, Jesus/Y’shua is the safety net that will hold us.  There will be times when we are so brokenhearted that we may wish we had never been born at all.  When our strength has left us and there may be no one to turn to, He is there.  Our own strength will fail us, but when we are weak, the Lord is strong.

When the daughter of Steven Curtis Chapman passed away, he said, “There will be times when you’ll question everything you believe.” Despite our measure of faith, it is when we are at our weakest point that the enemy attacks.  

No matter how strong a believer we are, there are times that we will suffer to the point where we are completely broken, utterly undone.  Our only hope is to cling to Jesus the Christ.  He will see us through our grief and suffering.

There are times that we will have no answers, but we must still trust.  If we know our God, then we know deep within that He will bring us through our trial or tribulation.  Faith as a grain of mustard seed that trusts, obeys and waits on God will stand until the storm passes.

Whether we are a believer or unbeliever, wise or foolish, storms will come against us.  We must cleave to the Rock, Jesus (Y’shua) because that is the only way we will stand.

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.

And every one that hears these sayings of Mine, and does them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. [Mat 7:25-27]

No matter how strong our faith is; no matter how close we walk with the Lord; no matter how obedient we are; there are times that we will suffer hardships, persecution, betrayal, trials and tribulations in this life.  Anyone who tells you otherwise is not speaking truth or is not mature.  We must shun self-pity.   

That does not mean we will not weep when we go through genuine repentance, sorrow or grief, but it does mean that we will learn to trust and wait on the Lord, even through bitter tears.  We can praise Him for being there for us when no one else is.  He will not fail us.  He will bring us through.  We can offer up thanksgiving for His love, mercy, grace and all that He allows, knowing that He cares for us.

He will turn our mourning into joy, and He will bring a blessing out of our suffering.  Jesus our Lord will bind up our broken heart and strengthen that which is weak.  When we have been trodden down and pushed aside, He will feed us and cause us to lie down in green pastures.  We must rest in Him as He does His work, for yes, we are His people and He is our God.

I will feed My flock, and I will cause them to lie down, says the Lord GOD. 

I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.  [Ez 34:15, 16]

And I will make them and the places round about My hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. 

Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are My people, says the Lord GOD.  And you My flock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am your God, says the Lord GOD.  [Ez 34:26;30-31]

Jesus (Y’shua) understands our tears; His compassion is still towards us.  He was moved to compassion to heal the sick, to bind up the brokenhearted, to set captives free and to raise the dead.  Even though He knew that He would raise Lazarus up from the grave, He wept, feeling the very grief and sorrow of those who mourned for Lazarus.

The Lord will lead us into all truth.  He will establish and heal us as we lean on Him.  His word is truth and we must stand on His promises, if we are to stand at all.  He is our Rock, our sure foundation.  He will bring us through.

And to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that you might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, [Eph 3:20, 21]

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  [Rom 8:37-39]

Nothing can separate us from the love of God (Yhwh), which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen!

Stand on His Word, His promises and His love for He is truth and great is His love toward us.  He will strengthen us to overcome, as He heals us and delivers us from all our trials and tribulations.  So, no matter how often or how hard our faith is tested, we can shut the mouths of Satan and his minions by thanking God for all He allows and praising Him through it all, for He will bring us through, for our good, but for His glory.

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.  [Rev 12:11]

When we release all into His competent hands, we can patiently wait as we rest in Him.  We must go through these trials of faith, for I firmly believe it is preparing us both mentally and spiritually for all that is fast approaching.  We look to Jesus, the Author and the Finisher of our faith.

Fear upon the Earth

Therefore, understanding the trying of our faith and knowing that the Lord wants us aware of all that is going on, we begin to further understand how the adversary is bringing fear upon the peoples of the earth.  Just as Jesus forewarned, things are increasing and intensifying, just as birth pangs do.

We know that there will be those who are martyred for their faith, for the Word of God has forewarned us.  The Lord will strengthen us to endure all that is coming, whether we live or die, we will be with Him.  

We all hope to be protected and used mightily in what is coming, but who lives and who dies is ultimately up to the Lord.  By His precious Holy Spirit, we overcome.

Over the last couple of years, we have been inundated with reports of possible catastrophes, as well as reports of horrific events that have taken place.  From earthquakes, to tornadoes and hurricanes, to solar flares, to the dying off of marine life, birds and mammals.

There are sink holes, approaching asteroids, meteors and comets (celestial bodies), economic collapse, wars and rumors of wars, blatant occult activity, increased shootings, murders and suicides, unexplained sounds and sightings in the earth, and the list goes on.

Some of the more recent news, which most people are aware of, includes yet more events that have many keeping a watchful eye.  There is much speculation and conjecture with the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, who is the first pope to resign in approximately 600 years. 

Yet, what was of even more significance was the fact that lightening struck the St. Peter dome of the Vatican, only hours after the Benedict's resignation.   

Many believe that the lightening was a sign that indicates the final pope is about to take Pope Benedict’s place.  It is not my intention to delve into the topic, but rather to present a few things that are grabbing the attention of many and causing much discussion.

Buzzing around the internet are the ‘Prophecies of St. Malachy’, which were predictions that were made by a twelfth century Irish pope.  As other Biblical prophecies unfold before our eyes, coupled with the resignation of the pope, many people suspect that the next pope will be the last pope.

There were two versions of the writing of the predictions.  It is stated that in the original publication only 111 popes were listed, when Thomas A. Nelson (Catholic Publishing House), put the prophecies into print. 

The mention of Petrus Romanus (112^th Pope), which means Peter of Rome, was added to the prophecies sometime after the first publication, being added after the prophecies that were printed in the 1820 publication.

The next pope will be the 266th pope since the apostle Peter (the Catholic church claims Peter was the first pope). Malachy of Armagh, an Irish monk, was summoned to Rome by Pope Innocent III (1130-1143 AD)

Malachy's vision resulted in a prophecy regarding the 112^th and final pope, part of which reads: 

“PETER THE ROMAN - "In the final persecution of the Holy Roman Church there will reign Petrus Romanus, who will feed his flock amid many tribulations; after which the seven-hilled city will be destroyed and the dreadful Judge will judge the people.”

Although John Paul II was called ‘the great pope’, he was also the first pope to call for a New World Order, twenty-five years after he was made Pope.  A Wikipedia article called, Prophecies of the Popes, (which is the "Prophecies of St. Malachy") speaks about discrepancies and inaccuracies in the predictions, as well as the timing of the prophecy.  

Others insist that the prophecies are accurate.  More speculations about who will replace Pope Benedict XVI are also circulating.  It is said that there are a few Cardinals that are favorites of the present pope, who  stand good chances of succeeding him.

The first is a man who was born in Romano, Italy, by the name of Cardinal Tarcisio Pietro (Peter) Evasio Bertone.  Some believe he will be successor and will be the Petrus Romano in the prophecies.  

Pope Benedict XVI appointed Cardinal Bertone as the Cardinal Secretary of State, as well as his Camerlengo to “administrate the duty of the Pope in the case of a vacancy of the papacy.”  However, Raiders Newsupdate reported quotes made back in 2008.

Another possible successor is a Ghanaian Cardinal, who was born in Western Ghana.  His name is Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, whose mother was Methodist and whose father was Catholic.  A paternal uncle of Turkson’s was Muslim.  

A Wikipedia article on Turkson states: “Cardinal Turkson called for the establishment of a “global public authority” and a “central world bank” to rule over financial institutions that have become outdated and often ineffective in dealing fairly with crises.”

An article posted by Raiders Newsupdate states: “The election of Barack Obama as the first African-American US President could pave the way for the election of [a] black Pope, according to a leading black American Catholic,” wrote the Times Online in 2008. “Wilton Daniel Gregory, 60, the Archbishop of Atlanta, said that in the past Pope Benedict XVI had himself suggested that the election of a black pontiff would ‘send a splendid signal to the world’ about the universal Church.” The Associated Press agreed.”  

Many think that Pope Benedict will select the black Cardinal, since he would want the church to show their desire for ‘change’, ever since the pope met President Obama and his wife, Michelle. 

Trailing behind the pope's 'favourites', some have mentioned a cardinal who is presently the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina (a South [Latin] American) named Jorge Mario Bergoglio. 

Some speculate that he will become the next pope because he is also a Jesuit (who made his final profession with the Jesuits in 1973) and therefore, he would fit in with their theories about the corruption and deception of the Vatican.  

So, once again prophecies are up for debate and generating fear about the end-times, as biblical prophecies truly do continue to unfold before us.  Yet, I know that I know, as do you, that when we seek the Lord about anything, He will direct us.  There are certain things that He simply wants us aware of, but not to dwell on.  

With some things, He leads us away from them immediately or quickly.  However, there will be times that He may have us search out a matter to teach us and to give us deeper understanding of the overall picture.  Whether He says yes, no or wait, we can trust Him because we know Him.   

He is our Father, our glorious Creator and He knows us.  Faith, hold fast to faith and obey.  When we know the Father, we obey Him because we love and trust Him.  It is understood that in order to follow His leading, His directing of our steps, it requires obedience.  How can He lead, if we rebel and refuse to follow His direction?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding.  In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.  [Prov 3:5. 6]

Deeper and Deeper

An interesting event occurred just prior to the Pope’s resignation.  On the first day of February, 2013, the Israel National News reported: 

“Israel seems to have sold Jerusalem to the Vatican.  A historic agreement has been drafted between Israel and the Vatican. The Israeli authorities have granted the Pope an official seat in the room where the Last Supper is believed to have taken place, on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, and where David and Solomon, Jewish kings of Judea, are considered by some researchers, to also be buried.

It is the culmination of a long campaign by the Catholic Church to regain religious stewardship over the place where Jesus is supposed to have broken bread and drunk wine with his disciples on the eve of his crucifixion.  This is an enormous issue pushed through without any public debate.  

According to our sources, the agreement, which is expected to be ratified next June, gives the Pope a “special authority” over the second floor of the building, so that Christian pilgrims will be able to celebrate religious functions like Pope John Paul did in 2000.”

Further on, the report states:  

“The Catholic Church has long wanted control over part of the area on Mt. Zion so as to turn it into an international religious center for Catholics. The blueprint of the agreement reads as follows: “The Vatican hands over this use of the Cenacle to the Custody of the Holy Land which will keep the Cenacle open from 6 AM to 8 AM for the celebration of the Holy Mass”.

In the long term, the gesture will increase tensions between Jews and the large assets of the Vatican. The Church has long been working to reduce Jewish rights in Jerusalem and in the Old City. Now, after the Muslim Waqf authority expelled the Christians from the Temple Mount and turned it into a mosque, it’s the turn of the Vatican to lay its hands on the Jewish Jerusalem.

 “Jerusalem is not for sale. For thousands of years, the Cenacle area was almost always totally closed off to Jews.  Sovereignty over Mount Zion is politics, not only religion. The day after the Pope celebrated a mass on Mt. Zion in 2000, he went to Yasser Arafat headquarter to support the Palestinians’ right to return.   

A few months later, the Oslo war began. And Jews were sacrificed again on the altar of “peace”. It was their last supper.  This week, the Vatican in its official documents began referring to the "State of Palestine".”  

To read the full article, go to source: Israel National News

“Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, son of the Diaspora Yeshiva's founder, who teaches at the institution as well as serves as the rabbi of the community of Metzad in Gush Etzion, reacted with shock to the possible compromising of the area. He told Jewish Israel that these reports infer "a change in the status quo and will disrupt the Yeshiva environment". 

He said that "church chanting and services would disturb the Jews who come from all over Israel and the world to pray and recite psalms at the tomb of King David –which is directly below the Upper Room".” 

The last paragraph is a direct quote from the Jewish Israel blog.

To close the topic of the Pope’s retirement, an interesting read is found on the blog called American Kabuki.  An article written by a Canadian, living in Nanaimo, British Columbia is highlighted.  It delves into the darker side of affairs involving the Pope and possible-elect Cardinal Bertone.

[excerpts]: 

“It was the pivotal Cardinal Bertone who leaked the pope's diary and other incriminating papers to a catholic-friendly [sic] journalist in Rome last year the same month that Tedeschi was sacked, to prepare the world for Ratzinger's removal. For it is Bertone who is now reaping the benefits of the papal housecleaning; he is not only a primary contender for the pope's position but a key player in the IOR.”

"You must understand that in my country, the Mafia and the government and the Vatican are all the same people, and Bertone, or whoever from the victorious ranks of his faction does assume the papal tiria, cannot be expected to do much but maintain the assets and security of the church, and that means by continuing the policies of silence and dissimulation that keeps the cash flowing. 

But their position is more difficult now in the wake of the enormous rifts developing within the wider church, where Cardinals are facing criminal prosecution for shielding child rapists, and talk of disaffiliating from Rome is widespread among Irish, American and German Bishops.

"We have all the grounds for a second Reformation now. That's how serious is the crisis. The church will either rid itself of itself or face collapse" said an Italian media commentator recently.” 
Source: American Kabuki

So, there we definitely have a few interesting candidates that have the tongues wagging. We will find out soon enough who the new pope will be.

In further news, after North Korea’s underground nuclear test on the 12^th of February, South Korea has deployed its own cruise missiles that can strike any target in North Korea.

“South Korea has deployed cruise missiles on the North Korean border, missiles that can hit targets anywhere in North Korea. This came in a statement for journalists by an official of the South Korean Defence Ministry, Kim Min Sok.”

“North Korea is a "serious threat" to the United States and Washington must be prepared to deal with it, US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned Tuesday after Pyongyang conducted a nuclear test.

"We saw what North Korea has done these last few weeks with a missile test and now a nuclear test," the outgoing defense secretary said at a farewell ceremony. "North Korea represents a serious threat to the US. We've got to be prepared to deal with that."  

Source: The Voice of Russia

Robot Baby Companions

Robot ‘babies’ are learning how to express human emotions.  Research goes deeper as inventors create real-life robot ‘babies’ that can express emotion.  The latest robot invention is said to have been developed to help special needs children, with the robot even being able to teach.

Humanoid robots that can express emotions and develop relationships with people are in the works at the University of California, San Diego.  Although USCD is working on the development of moving parts with the rest of the ‘body’ of the robot, a spokesperson for the University said that it should not be long before a ‘robot companion’ could be seen walking down the street.  
Source (video on FoxNews) 

Rare Disorder

An important piece of news, a medical alert as it were, is about a mysterious brain disease that has hit the state of Philadelphia and strikes mostly young women.  The more dangerous problem is that it is most often misdiagnosed as a psychological disorder.   

The doctors in Philadelphia that discovered it say that it is like ‘your brain is on fire’.   The first symptom is that the personality changes, where “they’d be so normal, when suddenly their lives went haywire”.

Out of the two women interviewed in the article, one was from New Jersey, the other from Pennsylvannia. “One minute I’d be sobbing, crying hysterically, and the next minute I’d be laughing," said Susannah Cahalan, of New Jersey.

I was very paranoid and manic. There was something wrong. I thought trucks were following me,” said Emily Gavigan, of Pennsylvania.”

Gavigan further stated that she suffered seizures, where she had to be placed on a ventilator.  She also could not control her arm movements.  Although people had been misdiagnosed with mental illness, it has now been categorized as an auto immune disease that is called Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis.  Antibodies apparently attack the brain, which causes swelling.  

The woman from New Jersey stated: “I had bizarre abnormal movements, would leave my arms out extended, you know, in front of me. I was a relatively normal person, then the next minute I’m hallucinating and insisting that my father had kidnapped me,” said Susannah.”

A person does not have to be a believer or follower of Christ to know that deception of great depths has encompassed the earth.  This has been a plan that had its beginning back before creation.  CBS online covers the story. 

[Keep this story in mind, as I will be referring to this particular news item in my next article]

Signs in the Heavens

There is an asteroid that is to pass within proximity to the earth on February 15^th, (tomorrow, as of this writing), which has some in fear of a collision, or that its nearness will cause satellites and communication to go down. NASA stipulates there is no danger.  I would say that we ought to pay attention to the signs all around us, but I concur with NASA (no danger), I believe NASA is right about this one. 

NASA: 

“The small near-Earth asteroid 2012 DA14 will pass very close to the Earth on February 15, 2013, so close that the asteroid will pass inside the ring of geosynchronous weather and communication satellites. NASA's NEO Program Office can accurately predict the asteroid's path with the observations obtained, and it is therefore known, there is no chance that the asteroid might be on a collision course with the Earth.”  Source: http://neo.jpl.nasa.gov/

There are those who are concerned because they do not trust NASA; however, we can trust the Lord.  He would be warning His people if the asteroid was going to strike the earth.  

We know from scripture that there will be cosmic activity that will greatly affect the earth and bring fear upon all of mankind.  Jesus (Y’shua) forewarned us:

And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.  [Lk 21:25, 26]

This is only a precursor to the fear that will overtake people, as multitudes are already becoming fearful at just the thought of such things.

Breaking News - Devastating Meteor Shower

A sudden and unexpected ‘cosmic attack’ has devastated the Russian Urals Region according to RT news, (as of this part of the writing which is 7:36 am EST, February 15, 2013), which reports:

“The Russian Urals region has been stricken by a sudden cosmic attack. Unidentified flying objects exploded over several major cities, including Chelyabinsk, where the blast waves blew out windows and disrupted mobile connections. 

­The Emergency Ministry said the incident was caused by a shower of meteorite debris. Unconfirmed reports suggested that a meteorite was shot down by Russian air defenses. Multiple dashboard videos appeared online, showing huge fireballs flying over buildings and exploding with a strong blast. A local zinc factory was the worst-hit, with some of its walls collapsed.” 

RT LIVE pictures and video link 

 The Age New Site in Australia

The SciNews blog states:

“Regnum news agency quoted a military source who claimed that the vapor condensation trail of the meteorite speaks to the fact that the meteorite was intercepted by air defenses.

A bright flash was seen in the Chelyabinsk, Tyumen and Sverdlovsk regions, Russia’s Republic of Bashkiria and in northern Kazakhstan.

“As of 13:00 Moscow time, 500 people have sought medical attention [in the disaster area], 22 of whom have been hospitalized,” Vladimir Stepanov, head of Russian national crisis management center EMERCOM told Vesti 24 news channel. Among the injured there are 84 children, Emergency ministry reported.”

We must not take the attitude that the Lord would bring judgment upon other nations, but not this one.  We know that judgment began quite some time ago (it begins in the Lord's house), but I also know that some things have been delayed because of the prayers of multitudes.  Yet what was written in the holy Bible most definitely shall come to pass.  The Lord is our strong tower, our refuge [Ps 91]

I will post the scripture again that I have already placed in this article.  We must stand on the word of God and believe.  He is called Faithful and True.  The next part of Battle above the Clouds will be called ‘The Living Dead’.  We serve a mighty and marvelous, most powerful (God Yhwh); we do well to fear the Lord.

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  [Rom 8:37-39]

And the Lord (Yhwh) commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that He might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.  [Deu 6:24]

And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and He that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He does judge and make war.  [Rev 19:11]  Selah

for His glory alone

Bonita                             dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com

Baptism by Fire

February 7, 2013 - [o2.o7.2o13] - 6:53 am

Baptism by Fire

Leave all in My competent hands.  I see what others do not see; I see all.  I AM He who tries the heart and the reins.  I know those who believe they are justified and walk in pride and those who cry out in true repentance and humility.  Leave all in My hands.  

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]

Concern yourself with the things I AM teaching you, revealing to you and purging you of.  Dying to self is a lonely journey and no one can take your place.  Fear not this fire.  Trust Me through it.

The three Hebrew men did not long to go into the fire.  They were thrown into the fire because they trusted Me.  They stood against that which was wrong, for they trusted that I was with them.  In anger, the king rejected their words when they refused to accept that which the king had set up of his own volition.

Enraged within, the king ordered the fire seven times hotter.  His mightiest men were ordered to bind the three and cast them into the fiery furnace. The fire was not comfortable to Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego .  Every second seemed an eternity.  Yet, I opened their eyes to see that I was with them.

Endure the Fire

They knew they had to endure, that they had no choice. In that fire, they were strengthened.  They witnessed My power that sustained them.  Their faith grew; their hope was established; their destiny was secure in My hands.

Did they want out of the fire?  Yes, at first they did, deep within they longed for release, yet they did not try to escape.  As soon as they understood that the fire was not consuming them, they walked through the fire.  They were not alone.

They were willing to lay down their lives unto death and for this reason, they overcame by My power.  I walked with them through the fire.  They felt the heat.  It was not comfortable to their flesh, yet it did not consume them.  It did not destroy them.  There was a further purging going on inside of them, yet outwardly, not even a hair was singed.

At the appointed time, they were brought forth out of the fire unharmed, yet stronger in faith, giving glory to Me.  They did not even smell of smoke.  Not one part of the fabric of their clothing was burned.  All who saw them afterwards feared, for those who saw them knew that I had been with them through it all.

Indeed, these men were strengthened in their faith.  They had endured the fire.  They had overcome, not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit.

Fear Not the Fire

Do not fear the fire!  Allow this baptism of fire, for it shall cleanse and purge.  You prayed to be strengthened.  You prayed to overcome and love not your life unto death.  How I AM doing it is not how you had imagined.  Yea, but My thoughts are higher than your thoughts, as are My ways.  [Is 55:9]

You have laid down pride (which hurts the flesh), in order to truly forgive.  Let patience do its perfect work. 

But let patience (endurance) have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all men liberally, and upbraids not (reproves sharply, scolds); and it shall be given him. [Jam 1:4, 5]

I know it is hard; I know the frailty of flesh.  I understand how flesh wars against (resists) the spirit.  Yea, but I see the motives and intentions of even the most awkward child.  Trust Me.  Yea, when you are willing and lay it down, do you see how I open your eyes now to reveal to you that I AM with you?  I did not leave or forsake you.

I AM walking with you through the fire. If you cannot see because of the flames of the fire, then at least be aware that you are not consumed.  You are still here.  Allow My peace that passes all understanding to reassure you of My presence.

In focusing on Me instead of the fire, instead of the circumstances and those that threw you into the fire, then you can rest, knowing that I AM indeed walking with you through this fiery time.  

The crowd sided with the king, declaring that he was justified in doing what he said and did.  He was wise and powerful.  It was said that he was a good king who cared for the people, presenting to them that which they wanted.  He presented to them a beautiful and glorious image of a god, made with the finest gold.

A False Image of God 

He set the image in a place where everyone could see the incredible image of the god that he created; a god that he knew and understood, a god that pleased the people.  How dare these three men, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego not regard the king, the people asked.

They cheered when the Hebrews were thrown into the fire, until they saw the king's mightiest men, who were ordered to throw the three into the fire, consumed themselves by the intense heat.

Then the crowd waited, silently watching, expecting to hear the cries of defeat and destruction echo in their ears.  Yet, they heard not a thing but the roaring of the flames.  

They believed that the three Hebrews were properly punished for their words and their actions.  The king is justified, they murmured. Lo, but they did not know how I saw it all, nor did they expect the God of the three men to intervene.  Nor did they expect Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego to survive.

Baptism by Fire 

This fire is a baptism of fire; fear it not.  You shall come forth as pure gold, for all My people must endure the fire.  You say, 'But Lord, I have been through fire before, more than once.  Is it not enough?'

Is not silver refined seven times?  Is gold not purged (more than once) to bring forth its purity?  Many of My people are going through severe trials right now, a fire of intense heat, yet they cry out to Me, expressing all that is within themselves.  

Remember I AM the Creator, who fully understands all that has been created.  My words are pure; know that I AM with you.

O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of His praise to be heard: Which holds our soul in life, and suffers not our feet to be moved. For You, O God, have proved us: 

You have tried us, as silver is tried. You brought us into the net; You laid affliction upon our loins. You have caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but You brought us out into a wealthy place. [Ps 66:8-12]

The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.  [Ps 12:6]

Answered Prayers

You prayed to be purified and purged, to be without spot or blemish.  You prayed that all unrighteousness and unclean things would be removed from you; that you would be strengthened to endure all the evil that is coming, so that you would endure to the end.  

You admitted that your wisdom is foolishness and sought (asked for) My wisdom; that your faith would be made strong and that I would teach you by My power and by My Spirit.

That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.  [1Cor 2:5]

You prayed to know My will so that you could obey; that you would overcome all that is of this world and all that is not of Me; that you would not love your life unto death.  I AM answering your prayers.

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. [Jn 14:26]

Do not be taken aback or fearful of the ways I answer.  Trust Me to bring you through, nothing wavering.  Dying to self is excruciating to the flesh.  Demons, all principalities and powers, rulers of darkness of this world and all spiritual wickedness mock, taunt and torment you upon your cross, as you endure in your dying to self.

Bitter Cup

A spirit of error has influenced many, but those who truly seek truth shall find it.  Look to Me, for I AM the one who shuts the mouths of the lions.  You drink from the same bitter cup as your Master, though He did not sin.

The drinking of this bitter cup will bring you to your cross, yes, but it will lead you to endure the cross on a daily basis.  All who are Mine continue to die daily by crucifying the flesh.  All sin, even that which has hidden, shall be purged and you shall be cleansed.  

Embrace My love for you, for those that I chastise are Mine.  All My people need reminding of that which they were taught. 

If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chastens not? [Heb 12:7]


Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered  [Heb 5:8]

Every branch in Me that bears not fruit He takes away: and every branch that bears fruit, He purges it, that it may bring forth more fruit.  [Jn 15:2]

Fiery Trial

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.  But rejoice, inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, you may be glad with exceeding joy. [1Pet 4:12, 13]

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]

I have seen the intentions and motives of your heart, fear not. I love the awkward foal as much as the strong horse.

But He knows the way I take: when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.  [Job 23:10]

Rejoice, for I AM with you.  Rejoice, for I AM He that formed you.  I AM He, the Potter, that forms and molds the clay.  Rejoice, for this fire has an appointed end.  Be strong - I AM with you.

Go through, go through, go through.  Shut out all the voices but Mine alone.  Woe to the wise man that glories in his wisdom, or the mighty man who glories in his might, or the rich man who glories in his riches.  These things should not be, for I delight in lovingkindness, judgment and righteousness. [see Jeremiah 9:24]

Fear not!  This is for your good, but for My glory!  Take upon you the whole armor that I provided.  Stand strong in this time; stand strong with Me.  Do not fear that which is happening.  It is indeed to strengthen you for that which is fast approaching.  

Truth Divides

I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened (restricted) till it be accomplished!  

Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.  [Lk 12:49-52]

My grace is sufficient for you.  Trust Me in all that concerns you...ALL that concerns you.  Though the enemy hates all people, he targets the most those who walk close to Me the most.  Wait, obey, be strong.  Patience...not much longer!

Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: 

But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God has chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, has God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought (nothing) things that are: 

That no flesh should glory in His presence. 

Prepare for Victory

Prepare yourself for victory, as you obey and go through. I AM the Lord of the battle.  Victory is in My hand and My banner over you is love.  Be not troubled or afraid; receive My peace and My love.  Yes, again I say, embrace the fire, for it is indeed for your good, but for My glory!  Selah

 

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. [Jn 14:27]

for His glory alone

Bonita                    dovesofthevalleys4@gmail.com