I see big name and no name, men and women prophesying, peace and prosperity, on Facebook all the time. Most times I just scroll on, however occasionally, I have to comment. And always my comment is: "what about repentance?"
In reading in Ezekiel this morning, I'm reminded of these false prophets.
"“Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, by promising him life:”" (Ezekiel 13:22 KJV)
My heart aches when I read the "Thus saith The Lord", words spoken in encouragement of brighter days ahead, with no admonition of repentance! These dark days we are now living in are the result of a people who have asked for and listened to men and women who tickle their ears! Speaking words of prosperity; "this will be your year"; stand still, instead of fall on your face!
I'm mindful of another who surrounded himself with those who would tell him what he wanted to hear!
"“Therefore the king of Israel gathered together of prophets four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall we go to Ramoth–gilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for God will deliver it into the king's hand. But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the Lord besides, that we might enquire of him? And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, by whom we may enquire of the Lord: but I hate him; for he never prophesied good unto me, but always evil: the same is Micaiah the son of Imlah. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.”"
(2 Chronicles 18:5-7 KJV)
When one speaks the truth it is not well received; God's true prophets are often stoned!
"“Again he said, Therefore hear the word of the Lord; I saw the Lord sitting upon his throne, and all the host of heaven standing on his right hand and on his left. And the Lord said, Who shall entice Ahab king of Israel, that he may go up and fall at Ramoth–gilead? And one spake saying after this manner, and another saying after that manner. Then there came out a spirit, and stood before the Lord, and said, I will entice him. And the Lord said unto him, Wherewith? And he said, I will go out, and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets. And the Lord said, Thou shalt entice him, and thou shalt also prevail: go out, and do even so. Now therefore, behold, the Lord hath put a lying spirit in the mouth of these thy prophets, and the Lord hath spoken evil against thee.”" (2 Chronicles 18:18-22 KJV)
We are such a people who do not want the truth! We are happy in our sin and have gathered for ourselves preachers who preach a different gospel; one that does not require a turning from our wickedness.
"“For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!”"
(II Corinthians 11:4 NKJV)
Jesus began His ministry preaching repentance and even now calls the churches to repentance!
Not the world - the church!
"““He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’ ”” (Revelation 3:22 NKJV)
"“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.”" (Revelation 3:19 NKJV)
My encouragement to you today is: do not believe the lies of the enemy who says peace, peace where there is no peace! If you want peace, repent! Turn from your wicked ways! Examine your heart! Confess your sins of unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, worry, fear and judgement! Ask God to expose those sins you have held onto; pray and ask for forgiveness for your rebellion and adultery! Tear down your high places, cast down your idols! Turn and seek The LORD with your whole heart; not just a small portion! Only then will you know the peace that passes all understanding; peace in the midst of every storm; His peace!
Repent for time is running out!
Even so - MARANATHA!
"“that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.”"
(Ephesians 5:27 NKJV)
From 3/22/16
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