But Whosever Drinketh

“But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John‬ ‭4:14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Several years ago, right after I became an obedient follower of Jesus Christ, I had a dream.

I’ll never forget it! 

In this dream, I was with some friends in the desert, and we were searching for water. I separated from them; going in a different direction with the promise - if I found water I’d come tell them. Sure enough, I did! I found a beautiful oasis and drank deeply. I then left the oasis, to find my friends to let them know I found water. I excitedly told them I had found what they were searching for! They refused to change the direction they were going (to come with me); saying they would find water on their route. Even though I had proof - they would not listen! Not one friend abandoned that dry, waterless way for a drink of Living Water. 

I remember being on that same dry, dusty path that promised the water that would satisfy the thirst in me, but that promise never came about. I was there 7 years. I gave it my all! My thirst only increased. They spoke of the promises, but obviously did not know the way, for they never told me. 

It wasn’t until I left that way and began walking the steps Jesus commanded that my thirst was quenched. 

Obedience to The Word Of God is The Way. Jesus had to walk it and we must follow His steps. There are no short cuts.  According to Jesus: “narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:14‬b KJV‬‬

Why did I find it? I have no idea! There is nothing special about me. I am the least! I just became so thirsty; I just knew I had to find Him, The Living Water!

I was the woman at the well! “The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not,” John‬ ‭4:15‬a KJV‬‬

I was desperate for Him. I still am! 

Being a church goer does not satisfy. Being involved in church does not get it! Being a leader in church is not enough. 

With Jesus it’s all or nothing. He can’t be something you do; He has to be your everything! “Sold out” a cliche everyone uses is not enough, if it does not include obedience to His Word! 

The one verse the mainstream denominations refuse to acknowledge is James 5:16a. They read before it; they read after it, but those 16 words do not exist in their Bibles and the reason is pride. No one wants to humble themselves and confess their sin. For religious people will not admit they have faults. 

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” ‭‭James‬ ‭5:16‬a KJV‬‬. Sixteen words that promise healing!

Religious people justify their faults. Worry, fear, unbelief, anger, resentments, judgments - well everyone has those. And if you ask - they have no one to forgive; yet the pain continues from all the hurts. 

Jesus wants to heal those hurts! How do I know? He healed mine!

I was in a dark place; I had no where else to go! A friend gave me a cd called The Power Of Forgiveness! Told me to listen and make a list of everyone who had hurt me and those I had hurt. He showed me: “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:14-15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I knew I needed forgiveness!

He showed me: “Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:1-2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Oh, the people I had judged!

I made my list. I met with him and a lady from his church. I humbled myself for two hours; confessing and repenting of every unforgiven hurt.  

Unforgiveness is sin. 

You must own your sin, to show you need a Savior! He came to save the lost! “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18:11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6:35‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you truly believe then you willingly obey His Word! Those who say they believe yet do not obey His Word are liars. They do not know Him, nor fear Him; THE Creator of the Universe. 

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Why do you think I have written about what God has done and is doing, in my life, everyday for 6 years?  Because I found The Water and I’m still reaching out to my friends. 

I need look no further. All of my hopes; all of my dreams; all that I longed for - I found in Him. When I repented and unloaded all of the baggage I had been carrying for 60 years, He gave me His abundant life. Through ongoing, daily repentance He’s making me into a holy vessel He can use. He’s doing it! I just am available because He owns me! I have been bought! My highest goal? To be His servant! 

“Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭7:23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you are thirsty and would like a copy of the cd God used to change my life, PM me your mailing address and we’ll send it free of charge. We’ll even pay the postage!

Even so - MARANATHA 

This Has Been

This has been an interesting week! Many opportunities presented to forgive, repent and show mercy; all mandatory in our daily walk on the narrow path.

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28:13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

An interesting word "mercy"; something we covet for ourselves but are reluctant to give to others, but give we must even when it's not returned. 

“Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭6:36‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Definition:

mer·cy

noun

1. 1. 

   compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.

   "the boy was screaming and begging for mercy"

   
   

   synonyms:

   leniency, clemency, compassion, grace, pity, charity, forgiveness, forbearance, quarter, humanity;  soft-heartedness, tenderheartedness, kindness, sympathy, liberality, indulgence, tolerance, generosity, magnanimity, beneficence "he showed no mercy to the others"

“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103:8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

The following post recently came across my newsfeed: 

"If you stir hell up, the devil will stir everything he can against you: you'll get misunderstood, misrepresented. . .  If you're not mature enough, it will get you down. It's not the contradiction of sinners . . .  it's the criticism of Saints the gets you down." Leonard Ravenhill

Interacting with "friends" on Facebook gives us plenty of opportunities to exercise our spiritual muscles, develop fruit and check our level of maturity!  

This also crossed my Newsfeed: "Maturity is being able to have your opinions and beliefs challenged, without feeling personally challenged or attacked." (Unknown)

Facebook also allows us to see the flesh in all its ugliness and to respond with mercy, as it has been offered to us, by our Father.

 

“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5:19-24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

When we touch others' idols or sacred cows, we mustn't be surprised if love, kindness, and gentleness are in short supply. However, in obedience we must choose to not be offended. We must extend mercy. We must walk in forgiveness, in repentance, and in love.

“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” ‭‭Micah‬ ‭6:8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Then, I received this as a morning text from a pastor friend:

"We should never minimize the sin of harboring an offense, which can derail our walk with God! Spiritual maturity requires that we become unoffendable! This will call for much humility and a forgiving spirit which are all byproducts of a new heart." Tony Langton

The differences in opinions (political or religious beliefs) written or spoken (by strangers or loved ones) give us ample opportunities to show others what is in our heart! (Matt 12:34) 

The following scripture is not commonly quoted in relation to mercy:

“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭6:38‬ ‭KJV‬‬

So, if you want mercy - give it!

Just like forgiveness!

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:14-15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Such scriptures, posts/texts delivered by friends (all from my Father); speak loving encouragements and inspire me to choose to be like His Son.

My prayer: Father, I come to you, having nothing I can boast in, but I can boast in You; Your faithfulness; Your goodness; Your mercy and Your grace! LORD, I ask forgiveness for the many moments I missed to show mercy and I repent for judgments I made. Forgive me Father for my disobedience in not loving as I should have! I recognize LORD, I could have done better and my heart's desire is to have honey come out every time my lemon gets squeezed! Thank You Father, that the work You began in me, You will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. My desire is for You and I will seek You and submit to You in all things. In Jesus precious name, I pray! Amen.

“For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” James‬ ‭2:13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭6:36-37‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 8/12/16

Behold The Lord’s

“Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.”  ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭59:1-2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭59:3-4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths. The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭59:7-8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness. We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noonday as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men. We roar all like bears, and mourn sore like doves: we look for judgment, but there is none; for salvation, but it is far off from us. For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them; In transgressing and lying against the Lord, and departing away from our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭59:9-13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Do these scriptures pierce your heart? 

They should! 

If they don't - then your heart is hardened!  

For even when forgiven, and covered by the Blood, in reading the above you should remember and weep for the sins you have been forgiven! 

If you think you have no sin, you are deceived! If you mistake conviction for condemnation then you are in error! 

Yes, Jesus died for your sins, but before they can be forgiven they have to be acknowledged! You have to know you are a sinner! Then you have to repent in your heart and turn from your wicked ways! For the cleansing to take place you have to know you are dirty! You not only have to desire your sin to be gone but you have to choose to leave it behind! 

When Jesus truly takes His rightful place as ruler of your life, living like the world is the farthest thing from your mind! Your desire is to please Him, not your own flesh! 

If that is not your mindset, then you are either in a backslidden state or have never truly been saved! 

You can't have it both ways. You will love Him or you love the world! 

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I know, for I lived that life for most of my 60+ years! Going to church every time the doors opened! Singing in the choir; oh I was a good person, but I was so in love with the things of this world! Job, home, kids, great husband, I always thought about them MUCH MORE than I thought about pleasing God! I thought counting my blessings was living for Him! I treasured the gift - NOT The Giver! I would say things like, "I love my family with all my heart!" THEN I read the following: 

“And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Deuteronomy‬ ‭6:5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I thought idols were wood or stone! I was so wrong! I put my family before God! I gave them my all, and whatever was leftover, God got! My idols were flesh and blood, and that is sin! 

Knowing what sin is and acknowledging it, is the first step! Then comes the choice of turning away from your sin! 

Like Abraham did with Isaac we must put our loved ones on the altar! (Genesis 22) Leaving them there is so hard, but stay they must! Our families are what we worry most about and not giving God control is sin! He already has control, but our laying down our will (control), and letting Him be God in their lives is the turning away from our sin! Continuing to worry is sin, because it shows a lack of Trust in God! 

Sins (we all have to face and repent of) are unbelief, fear, worry, unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, judgements, pride, criticism, lust, resentments, etc!

I recognized my sins, humbled myself and met with brothers and sisters I trusted and confessed (James 5:16)and repented of my sins! I forgave and the freedom and healing came! The peace, promisedwas amazing, the joy unspeakable! I no longer have fear! 

And yes, sometimes I fall, but that's when God's grace and mercy holds me! He then shines a light on my error and I repent! 

That's how we walk out our own salvation; that's how we overcome! We stay on the narrow path with our eyes on Him! He is our goal! He is our prize! 

I never knew all of this, until someone explained it to me. 

Now I've passed it on to you!

Repent before it's too late!

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 4/7/15

A Little Leaven

“A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.”  ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5:9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Most think a little sin is not so bad, but that’s all it takes, is a little!

A little rebellion, starts out “not so bad” but will, if left unchecked will be full blown defiance in no time. Rebellion is contagious.  Because there is no fear of God there is no concern for consequences; and most often there are none. However, death makes it’s entrance and gains a foothold and will have his way unless life is resurrected. Only the power of God can do that. That takes prayers of humbled, submitted followers of Jesus Christ who will stand in the gap.

Rebellion cannot be rewarded. It cannot be disregarded. It cannot be tolerated. It must be excised; removed before the whole body is infected. It is a cancer whose purpose is to kill, steal and destroy. 

How do you know rebellion? Disobedience to authority is its face. “I will be god”; “I will have my own way”; “I will not submit” it’s motto!

It is darkness. 

“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, ”  ‭‭

1 Samuel‬ ‭15:23‬a KJV‬‬

Rebellion - rejection to The Word Of God; the plague upon our families; our churches; our nation. 

“For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

The world in the church.

We have been tolerant, just like the children of Israel who did not drive out the inhabitants of the land. 

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” ‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭7:14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Our tolerance is rebellion. We must repent of our unbelief. We are living with the consequences. Pray God opens our eyes to our iniquities before it’s too late.

Even so - MARANATHA! 

They Are Not

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.”

‭‭John‬ ‭17:16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I never left the world!

This morning I was reflecting on my walk now, and my walk over the 40 years, when I was in denominational churches. Why did I fail the tests so often? Why did the promises elude me? How come I did not discover His peace until I was almost 60 years old? The answer? I never left the world! 

I, each time I turned back to God after backsliding, brought with me the weights of the world! I was never taught how to rid myself (or lay aside) of the things which held me in captivity.

“They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭4:5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I loved the world. I loved my life. I wanted my cake and to eat it too!

“If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” John‬ ‭15:19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I looked down on radical Christians and thought "that was okay FOR THEM, but not for me!"

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I wanted to be blessed without inconvenience!  And "the church" accommodated my desire. I just had to show up and give my money! And I felt so good about my "service for the kingdom!" I carried my Bible but never read it! I believed it because my family believed! Just like my political affiliation!

Then I started reading The Word! My life was in shambles and I had tried everything else, to no avail! And God called me out of the darkness, and set my feet on the rock!

He led me to a ministry that explained how to rid myself of the world! How to walk in The Way! How to Lay Aside Every Weight!

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12:2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I thank God daily for the work He has done in me! And gladly speak boldly of what it takes to get off the broad path and onto the narrow path! How to die to self. How to run the race with victory!

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It's impossible to lay aside the sin, when we love it more than The LORD! Pride, bitterness, unforgiveness, oh and don't forget unbelief, stop us in our tracts! Those traits are the world and are wicked in the sight of God!

“Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” ‭‭James‬ ‭1:21‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I have been taught the old way, to follow Jesus Christ! It's a hard road that the worldly church doesn't like! It's one of obedient submission! It's one of servitude! It's radical yet quietly humble! There's order and selflessness! There's love that is not offended! 

And all I did was give up.

“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.”

‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6:14‬ ‭KJV

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” Colossians‬ ‭2:6-7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It begins and ends in daily, never ending, repentance and forgiveness! 

Jesus speaking:  “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:13-14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 6/4/16

Recently I’ve Been

Recently, I’ve been hearing a lot of sermons about change. When one decides to follow Jesus Christ a change takes place, or is supposed to! It’s more than a desire to go to church. It’s denying self - wanting to please God, instead; or it’s supposed to! The closer you get to God, the less the world appeals to you; or that’s the way it should be. 

So what happened if your life did not change? What happened if you are still doing everything the way you were? Are you saved? 

If you still love the world more than you love God; then according to Scripture you are not! No matter what your denomination teaches. You cannot serve two gods. 

“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you; (For the Lord thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the Lord thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭6:14-15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you put your will; your desire above the commandments of God then you are serving another god; yourself. 

If the things you do are contrary to His Word, then you serve the devil, no matter if you are in church every time the doors open. 

The change that takes place is the desire to please God and obey His commandments! 

"Repentance: a change from pleasing self, to pleasing God!" Paris Reidhead 'Incomplete Repentance'

That change comes from emptying oneself of “self” and filling that void with God. The world’s religions try and do the same but they bypass the hard part and miss the mark. It comes through repentance of your sins. Sin -  a word the world hates! 

Sins come in all shapes and sizes.

We’ve all heard of people getting saved and there be a radical change in their life. Drug addicts immediately delivered from their addictions; prostitutes immediately giving up their work and dressing modestly; thieves turning themselves into the law and confessing their crimes. Those changes are noticeable! Everyone knows God did a work. 

But did He do a work if you have not changed? 

The sins that God finds the most heinous are the “little” sins hiding in our hearts; unforgiveness, judgments, anger, bitterness, resentments, fear & worry (unbelief), grumbling and complaining, criticisms and pride.  It’s the confessing and repenting of these sins that empties our heart to make room for Him. Removing the hidden hate through confession and repentance allows room for His love.

When you truly love Him you can’t love the world!

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:15‬ ‭KJV‬

The world is entertainment! The world pleases your flesh. The world takes your mind off of the things of God. The things the worlds does is contrary to The Word Of God. The pleasure the world offers is momentary; fleeting at best. 

There is joy unspeakable in The Lord, that the world will never comprehend! Nothing this world offers even remotely compares to the pleasure obedience to God provides. Knowing His good pleasure surpasses everything! Being in His will and fulfilling His directions beyond anything you can imagine! What a privilege! What an honor to be used by Him for His glory!  Once experienced nothing else matters, that the world offers; no attraction at all. 

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” Matthew‬ ‭22:37‬ ‭KJV‬‬

THAT which you love is what you live for; care for; look out for;  sacrifice for; die for! 

It's either you or Him! There can be only One! 

“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew‬ ‭6:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Speaking to the church : “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James‬ ‭4:4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“An enemy of God” - it doesn’t get more serious than that! 

My prayer: Father God forgive me for allowing the world to creep in and distract me from You! I repent for all of the times I took my eyes off of You. My hearts desire is for You and You alone. When I begin to stray, show me my error and pull me back! Hold on tight for I am weak! I will to lean on You! Thank You LORD. For the work You continue in me. I submit to You!

Even so - MARANATHA 

Think Not

“Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew‬ ‭10:34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10:29-31‬ ‭KJV‬‬

There is nothing that goes on in my world or yours, that is outside of God's knowledge or will. 

Nothing, that is occurring on this earth, is outside of His control.

Everything that we experience personally and globally He knew would occur since the beginning of time! Nothing happens without His purpose being accomplished. 

"Nothing, nothing, nothing happens to you that is not filtered through the fingers of a loving Father!" KC

He knows the mistakes you will make today! He knows how and when I will blow it. He knows the end result before it begins! All things are orchestrated at His hands! All are purposed for our short term and long term benefit! Even the most devastating, has potential for good in His hands! You may not see it now, but if you seek Him with your whole heart, it will be revealed to you! 

He is God!

We are not!

The tests we go through will continue until we learn our lessons. And when we finally pass this one, there will be another; and another; and another! 

When we are His; our lives have meaning, our lives have purpose. Each event we face is a refining procedure intended to make us more like Him!  We keep going through the fire. The dross each time being removed, by The Master-Smith, until He sees His reflection in us!

Do not allow the events in your life, good or bad, to take your eyes off of Him. Do not let the news occurring world wide distract you from the purpose of your walk with Him! 

Keep seeking Him with your whole heart! Keep Him as your Principle Purpose! Keep your eyes upon Jesus! Read your Bible every chance you get! Commit to memory His scriptures and "think on these things" as He commands,  instead of allowing the enemy to capture your thoughts with vain imaginations which are outside of your control! 

Face it!

You have no control over anything outside your own actions! The only choice you get to make, every moment of everyday is whom you will serve! 

Surrender your will to The Lover of your soul!

Only then will you find peace! 

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” ‭‭John‬ ‭14:27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 9/2/14

The Way

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.” Proverbs‬ ‭12:15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

To walk close to The Lord, you must give up the right to be right. The traditions of men, that we were taught in the denominations, are not always true. Truth is not subjective and must be sought. There is only one way and The Way is not smooth or painless. 

“Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Also I set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will not hearken.” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭6:16-17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

The Way of The LORD is a road of suffering; of giving up the things the flesh wants; to walk according to His Way. It’s a change from our wants and desires to His wants and desires. And when He’s made a change in you, you are different from the world. You no longer want what the world wants. It no longer appeals to your flesh. It actually is repulsive. His pleasure is your desire.

 “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.” Proverbs‬ ‭21:2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Everyone says “God knows my heart!” Yet The Word says: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭17:9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30:12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

We cannot love the things of the world and be on the narrow way! Our prayer of “change me Lord” is the beginning of the removal of the love of the world. Sometimes it’s dramatic when that person has lived a lifestyle of drugs; sometimes it’s subtle, but  change occurs, when we choose to submit to His Lordship. That is the change. When there is no change, there is no life. 

“I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭30:19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Life or death; your choice!

Will you change?

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”

‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:15-17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Repent while there is still time!

Even so - MARANATHA 

Not On My Watch

The term “Not on my watch” has echoed in my head the past 24 hours.

What does that even mean?

One definition: “When you're "on watch" it means you're staying awake to guard and make sure things are OK while others sleep.”  The military and the police department routinely use this idiom to convey their dedication to protecting those they serve.

The majority of mothers are also always on guard. They have one ear tuned, at night, to hear any abnormal sounds, in protection of their children. Whereas often times dads can sleep through anything. 

When a mother becomes a grandmother that tendency does not lessen, even when no children are in her home. Watching is engrained in our very fibers. 

Throughout the Bible we read of people God raised up to “watch” and sound an alarm when the need arose. When the children of Israel fell asleep they would cry out for repentance to wake them up! Most often the message would be ignored, and the watchman ridiculed, or even stoned. Most do not want anyone to wake up them up, for they are comfortable in their slumber. The watchman has to; has no choice but to sound the alarm. 

“But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.” ‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭33:6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

When the watchmen discerns danger from darkness, he must sound the alarm. To not do so would be sin for him. Whether the church heeds the warning is not a factor whether it will be given. However, even though the burden is lifted, the watchman takes no pleasure in the resulting judgment. 

And judgment will come, for the warning is of The Lord, not of the man. 

No man would willingly put himself through the resulting persecution if the wrath of The Lord was not the result of his disobedience. 

“For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭1:10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭5:29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

When a Word from The Lord comes, the resulting burden is almost impossible to lay down or ignore. It can be buried, though, and that temptation is always there by the enemy. As we walk closer to The LORD, disobedience becomes more and more intolerable, for our heart breaks at His displeasure. The ridicule by men is nothing in comparison. 

Take care when a Word is given. Pray about it before it is disregarded. Examine it in light of the Scriptures.  

Once a word has been delivered it’s up to you.  

Even so - MARANATHA! 

Let No Man

“Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5:6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It seems everywhere I turn I hear preachers and self-proclaimed prophets speaking empty words! 

Their long, prayers and prophecies promising this and such are full of "empty words!” I have listened in amazement, thinking "this is gobbley gook"; it makes no sense, it has no substance, yet all around me people make a big deal over their proclamations! 

"Empty words" are void of life! They promise peace and prosperity, never speaking of obedience, conviction, repentance or dying to self! Their routes are devoid of sacrifice! Never will you be called to follow Christ to the cross! They are lying spirits!

“Now therefore, behold, the Lord hath put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these thy prophets, and the Lord hath spoken evil concerning thee.” ‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭22:23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;” ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4:1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.” Galatians‬ ‭1:9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭13:3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭13:24-27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If it feels good; if it requires nothing from you, but promises the world; it's a lie! 

We are called to live like Jesus! We are to take up our cross! We will be hated and persecuted! Our families and our friends will speak hurtful words about us! We are called to suffer for the gospel! 

I like the way Charles Spurgeon put it: "If you are called to endure hardness for the sake of the truth, then those are the sufferings of Christ. If you suffer for your ownsake, it may be a punishment for your own sins."

If you are promised, by someone laying hands on you, that things will be better and money and happiness is coming your way, you are being lied to! Our life is not meant to be easy. It is through the fire we are proved and made to be a reflection of the Master! Jesus promises peace through the storm, only if you keep your eyes on Him!

Guard your heart! Read your Bible! Know His word! The Holy Spirit will reveal to you The Truth and give you a check in your spirit when deception comes calling! Pray God opens your eyes and gives you discernment! Pray you will not be deceived!

“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Even so - MARANATHA! 

Are You Going

Are you going to heaven?

“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:22-23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Jesus, in the above verse, is speaking to people who believed they were okay and Heaven bound! And again, to the deceived, in the verse referenced below:

“Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John‬ ‭8:44‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In the last two weeks I've heard reports of many deaths, and the hearing of these two, may cause you to question your eternal destination. 

Are you ready to die?

Some friends were doing work on a couple's house. They left some Forgiveness brochures and the next day the man, out of the blue confessed that they were not married. My friends prayed with the man and he repented of his sins. The very next day, he went fishing and died. My friends were amazed and so thankful that they had been obedient to The Holy Spirit. 

Yesterday, I heard of some gentlemen who had gone to a football game, out of state, and on the way back home one of the guys, in the back seat fell asleep and they realized, quite a while later, he had died! 

I'm sure many of us can relate a story of a friend or loved one recently dying. Death is no respecter of age, economic status, or denomination! We do not know when we will die. We are only assured we will! 

Death is the only guarantee in life!

Are you ready? Do you fear death?

If you do, then that is your soul letting you know there is something wrong. And that "something" is sin! If you have unresolved/unrepented sin in your life, then you are not ready! 

You may have bought the ticket, earlier in your life, but haven't gotten on the train! You are still standing on the platform and when the train pulls out you will not be on it! You have got to unload your baggage and give it to The Porter, for you cannot take it with you!

You have got to repent! 

You may go to church or watch it on tv; listen to Christian music; maybe even read your Bible every now and then, or sing in the choir. Or maybe you are a deacon, elder or pastor in the church. It doesn't matter your position; if you are holding onto unforgiveness in your heart, Jesus said you are not forgiven!

Jesus speaking again: “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew‬ ‭6:14-15‬ ‭KJV‬‬ (Matthew 18:21-35)

In other words, if you don’t forgive those who have hurt you and repent of the unforgiveness you have held onto, you will not go to heaven; no matter what your denomination teaches!

Examine your heart! You may say you have forgiven many times, however, if "it" still hurts, then it's not forgiven! 

One other thing - if you long for heaven to escape the trials of this life, because it is so hard here, then you also need to examine your heart! The trials that we go through are from God; to turn us to Him or to purify us! If you are walking with Him, they are the refining fires, to remove the dross. Jesus is coming back for a bride without spot or wrinkle! He's got to wash you clean and press out those sins!

Count it all joy! He only reproves His own!

Jesus did not die in payment of your sins for you to continue in them! 

Repent while there is still time! 

If you need to talk, PM me! 

Even so - MARANATHA 

From 10/28/14

If Ye Abide

“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” John‬ ‭15:7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

What do you desire from The LORD?  Money? New house? Better job? A spouse? Children? Good health? New computer? A vacation?

Last night at mid-week service, during prayer requests, two men ask for "tears for the lost!”

Do we have a heart for the lost? We pray for healing of ourselves, family members, friends but how often do we consider the spiritual state of the ones we love? 

We hear about a "lost and dying” world and we think of far off places; when in actuality it may be sitting next to us at the dinner table or sleeping in the next room!  

Why do we automatically assume that everyone we know is going to heaven?  

I have heard estimates that say over 80% of those who attend church do not know The LORD!  Are you one of those; who believe in Him but not follow Him?

Even the demons believe!  

Examine your heart! 

-   Is He your LORD? 

-   Do you love Him with all of your heart, with all of your soul and all of your might?  Or is He "one" of the "things" you love; like you love a good steak? 

-   Do you think about Him all of the time or just when you are in trouble? 

-   Is your god made in your own image; worshiped on your terms? Or do you obey The Word Of God?

Time is short and if you are not radical for Jesus, then you are described by Jesus Himself as lukewarm! “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

An old song comes to mind by Bob Dylan; "Serve Somebody" says: "it may be the devil or it may be The LORD, but you gotta serve somebody!"  If you are not serving God, then by default, you are serving the devil! It's black or white; no grey area, here! No room for negotiation! There will be no justifying your lack of relationship; excuses won't get it!

If you have not made Him your LORD, it is not too late! As long as you are breathing you can call on His Name, repent of your sins, and He will meet you right where you are, forgive you and make you His!

“For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭78:39‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Heaven or hell is but a breath away!

Repent while there is still time!

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 3/20/14

Do You Know

Do you know how you "know" something, but you can't put your finger on it? 

It's a question that's been nagging you, and then all of a sudden you have a revelation of the answer!

Got it this morning!

We all have to come to the point that we understand that we are a wretch before we can surrender all! 

It was easy for me to "know" I was wretched. I have half jokingly said, in my Testimony, "the only thing I hadn't done was commit  murder or rob a bank"; I was that bad! It was easy for me to admit I had done nothing to deserve my salvation! I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt, it was a gift from God, because I truly deserved to burn in hell!

But what about the good church goer, who has always tried to do right? The prodigal's brother so to speak! 

We all sing: "Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!" But is there a "knowing" in everyone's heart of his wretchedness? I don't think so. 

What does it take for one to come to the realization that he brings nothing to the table? 

The Bible states it many times;

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us,”

‭‭Titus‬ ‭3:5‬a ‭KJV‬‬

“There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30:12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

There is huge difference in knowing you are wretched and believing the lies of the devil. He lies when he tells you "you didn't deserve what so n' so did to you", AND when he tells you "you are no good." He will puff you up when he whispers "well at lest you didn't do what “he” did!" And in the next breath tell you, "you deserve what you got!" We must remember he is a liar!

Wretchedness is totally different. It's coming to the end of yourself! And it levels the playing field. We realize none are good.

“As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:”‭‭Romans‬ ‭3:10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

We the "wretched" understand that we are all clay and are content to be a lump; usable by the Master Potter. Until we get to that point we will be trying to tell Him how best to use us. We will only choose to be a "vessel of honor", whereas as a true lump we know we have no say and are content to just be molded by His hands.

“Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭18:10-14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Knowing you are a sinner is so important, for without that knowledge you won't know you need a Savior! But do we really understand that we were born into sin; all of us; every single one of us?

“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭5:12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And all of our life we are told to be good! And we try. 

There was actually a campaign by atheists: "Be good for goodness' sake!" The idea you don't need God to be good; in direct opposition to the teaching of Jesus.

“And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭10:18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Being good is works based. Even the concept is wrong. It's something you really can't do by yourself, because our hearts are wrong.  For when you are good, you can pat yourself on the back and say, I was good! The key is self! Self cannot be elevated; only God may reside on the throne! There can be only One! And no matter how good we are - we are not God! 

Another thing wretchedness is not - "the wilderness!" Although sometimes God will reveal our wretchedness while we are in the wilderness. Sometimes it takes being in a desert place to reveal the thirst we have to have! For it's the Living Water that saves us for eternity!

When you truly know you were born into wretchedness and that you need forgiveness to be saved from hell, it is easier to comprehend the following Scriptures.

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:14-15‬ ‭KJV‬‬‬‬

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you know you need forgiveness and mercy, and that you can't possible live good enough to earn them; that you are as lost as the murderer, adulterer, and the thief, then it is easier to give forgiveness and mercy! 

The worldly church delights in and flaunts the perks of being a child of The King; giving itself titles and wearing crowns. 

Whereas the wretched, prefers anonymity so that God gets all of the glory! It's "God's work", not mine or yours. It doesn't need a building. Or a big budget or bankroll. What He is doing, He will fund!

There is no pressure being an arm, a mouth, an ear, a foot. Those parts just do what The Head tells them to do! And there is only one Head to the body! He leads and the wretched follows, and rejoices at being useful! But He gets the glory!

My prayer: show us our wretchedness! Thank You LORD for Your mercy and Your grace!

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 2/4/17

Are You Going

Are you going through a hard thing? 

Do you feel like no one knows or understands; that you are all alone?

Many times in our life we are propelled headlong into an insurmountable struggle! We all face storms and trials. Some are a short lived tempest!  The length of others seem to have no end in sight!

Storms are intended to stop us dead in our tracks and bring us to God! 

The fiery trials believers encounter are meant to purify us like silver in the furnace! To cause the removal of dross (sin) so that the Master's face is seen in us when completed! 

Both are hard things, but oh so worth the outcome! Easy to talk about after the fact; seemingly unbearable in their midst!

The duration of the trials is dependent on our pliability! The longer we fight the process, the longer the fight!  Being an overcomer of the process is more likely when we understand our role!

First, we have been told a lie from the beginning; that we have control over our destiny. Even when we set realistic goals for our life, we encounter obstacles moment by moment; day by day. That anyone ever achieves anything in this life is amazing because of forces bent on sidetracking or completely derailing our dream! Understanding that the dream is a gift from God and achieving it requires PROVIDENCE, is wisdom. 

The life we pick out for ourselves (or our children), sometimes is not what God has chosen for us, and the battle is on! Such is the case when we encounter adversity! Major illness, traffic accidents, birth defects, untimely deaths are all life changing events, for good or bad, depending on your relationship (or lack of) with God!  

If you like to play games, then you understand "rules". The creator of the game sets the rules, and the players follow the rules. The game ceases to be fun when players break the rules, and of course there's no game if no one will play with you. Well, can you imagine if the "piece" you are playing with says, "No, I'm NOT moving there!" And refuses to budge!  You, as the player, see the big picture - the best way to achieve the goal of winning the game, but your obstinate little "piece" is flat out refusing to cooperate! It has ideas of it's own, on how to get to the finish line! It doesn't matter that "it is not the one in control"! It doesn't matter that "it is just a pawn, expendable if necessary in achieving the end result! Sometimes in the game, the seemingly insignificant ends up being the most valuable piece; 

the one that is sacrificed first!

Okay, O know I've mixed my metaphors and destroyed all rules in grammar, but hopefully you understand what I'm saying! 

God has a BIG PLAN! He sees the end result and this life you are living is not about how much you earn, whether you have a big house, how many goals you get in the game on Saturday, if you marry the man of your dreams, or if you get a shiny new car! It's all about where you and the ones you love spend eternity! And time is running out!  The Creator could at anytime decide to put the pieces back in the box and put the game on the shelf! 

Again, you are not in control!

But you can know the ONE Who is! 

Knowing Him, The Creator of ALL THINGS, makes life exciting, interesting, and worth living! All of the things you are striving for are ONLY found in Him! Everlasting  happiness, security, peace, love, joy; only obtainable through Him; not the immediate, momentary, short lived, gratification like you've experienced before!

You can have everything you have ever dreamed of, but only through giving up all control and humbling yourself, submitting to The One Who loves you best! He has always known you and has been waiting for you to turn to Him, to show you who you truly are, His! 

“Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭9:19-21‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the Lord, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us? Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay: for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭29:15-16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Stop fighting! Surrender the game! It will be the best move of your life!

Even so - MARANATHA! 

From 6/24/14

Poison

The above quote struck a chord in my spirit for I see the results of such poison daily. 

You can tell people all day long that: 

“Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”

‭‭(Matthew‬ ‭7:14‬ ‭KJV‬‬) and everyone thinks they are on that “narrow way!”

The key is: “few there be” yet the bigger the church/ministry; the more successful, the more people believe they are on the right path!  I don’t need to name names for they are all on TV; their names in lights!

It’s the fence riding; wanting your cake and eating it too, that causes the most trouble for new Christians or recommitted Christians. It’s hard to see the wrong you’ve been consuming for so long. Like trying to give up diet sodas that were supposed to be so much better for you! 

“And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles.” (‭‭Mark‬ ‭2:22‬ ‭KJV‬‬) is the scripture that comes to mind when I look back on my conversion. 

The scripture I was discovering, while reading my Bible for myself, did not mix well with the old denominational teachings I had received. All the while I was quoting “who I was” and “what I could do”, I would read about picking up my cross and following Him! Suffering for Christ did not fit in with the prosperity message! 

Being somewhat a Techie, I soon realized I had to dump a great deal of wrong data; reformat my hard drive if you will! Reprogram my mind! Reading straight through my Bible over and over and not reading any other authors helped greatly! Saturating myself in His Word and good sound teaching changed everything! 

In the beginning, I was so angry at those who had taught error for so long! The enemy played the blame game, but it was the ministry of Forgiveness that set me free. Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 7:1-2, James 5:16 changed my life.

I came to the realization I had to forgive the ministers/churches and denominations that had lied to me! I realized deceived people do not know they are deceived. So I had to forgive and pray for them; that God would open their eyes, too! That He would call them out of deception too! 

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you want to know someone, you have to exert some effort to find out all you can; stalking comes to mind! If you want to know God, you have to go to the source; The Word Of God! You can’t trust the big names to tell you the truth. The sugar coated gospel is what sells but it is not The Truth! It may have a bit of Truth, but if it’s not 100% Truth - it’s a lie! Truth hurts! Truth is hard. Truth is uncomfortable! Truth convicts! Truth brings about repentance! Truth brings change! 

“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” John‬ ‭17:17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John‬ ‭14:6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Before I heard The Power Of Forgiveness, I followed all of the big name ministries on TV; male and female. I bought all of their books! I went to all of their conferences. I was active in the denominational church I attended; there every time the doors were opened! I believed I was saved and heaven bound! I was doing everything my church told me to do, and I was as lost as a ball in high weeds. The unforgiveness alone was enough to keep me out of heaven. 

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:14-15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

You see, I followed the traditions of men and the doctrines of devils. 

“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2:8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;” ‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭4:1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

The devil began twisting The Word Of God in the garden and is still doing so today. He tried to destroy The Church and when he found he couldn’t, he joined it! Just like in the time of Josiah, The Book Of The Law has been lost in the church! We carry our Bible but we never read it. We are ignorant of The Word; pulling scripture to reinforce our beliefs; like a salad bar, picking and choosing what we like; omitting what we don’t! Our ignorance and laziness paved the way for deception. We love our sins more than God so He’s given us over to lying spirits!

“And the Lord said unto him, Wherewith? And he said, I will go forth, and I will be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets. And he said, Thou shalt persuade him, and prevail also: go forth, and do so.”

‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭22:22‬ ‭KJV‬‬

But if you seek Him you will find Him! Put away everything and only read your Bible! Pray before you do, “God open my eyes! I want to know You!” Then set aside time to read The Word daily; EVERY DAY! Your Bible; Not a devotional. 

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11:6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

He will reward your efforts! He will prove Himself to you! And your faith will increase! The more you find out about Him the more you will want to know Him!  And the more you know Him the more you will love Him! And the more you love Him the more you will fear Him! Fearing God - another thing that has been lost in the church! 

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭2:5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It all comes down to obedience to The Word Of God; repentance of sin! The very first and last message of Jesus! Knowing what constitutes sin is imperative; the very last thing the devil wants you to know. We all know killing, stealing and lying is bad, but it’s the little sins we think are not so bad that will keep us out of heaven. Unforgiveness, bitterness, hatred, lust, grumbling and complaining, anger, judgments, jealousy, envy, and the most acceptable sin of all - unbelief! 

Unbelief is apparent when there is no obedience to The Word! If there are no consequences for sin, why should we obey? The God of Love that is preached today accepts you the way you are and does not expect you to change; will not hurt your feelings! The church today is all about man, the religion is humanism! It’s all wrong! 

It’s not about us - it’s all about Him! We were made for Him, not the other way around! We worship a god made in our own image; a permissive parent with no power! 

The slow poison of wrong teaching we have ingested has numbed the church to the true Word, and ONLY the Word can wake you up! Hopefully this post has made you angry enough to drive you to The Word to prove me wrong! 

My reading ends this morning: “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55:6-9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Seek Him! 

It’s not about you!

We are to be His hands, His feet, His mouth; 

His servants to be used as He desires! 

We are His vessels made by Him for honorable or dishonorable use; at His discretion. 

The servant has no say except “Yes sir!” 

In obedience we find our purpose, our peace, our joy! To please Him our one desire! 

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

There’s only one way and there’s very little time left! Repent! 

Even so - MARANATHA!