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| 'Spiritual
FUEL for the
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The Agape
Letters Ministry Newsletter
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Friday October 31, 2008 ( 2 Cheshvan 5769) "Journey in
Victory!" Philippians 3:12-13(Amplified Bible) Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, Believing the WORDs of Christ, as the Apostle Paul certainly did, I know without reservation that HIS Life was the Perfect example from birth to resurrection, and my following that example is what God desires for my life. When looking to my past to see what God has done over the years, I am then reminded by these WORDs of that which Christ took hold of,,, me. If everything I have experienced in my past would have been easy, uneventful and painless, then I would not understand what Paul was writing about to the Philippian Believers about pressing on towards completeness and perfection in Christ Jesus. Many Believers in Christ will agree with me, that the messes and tests of our lives past, are what God uses as our MESSAGE and TESTIMONY of and to HIS Mighty Power of Holy Spirit, WHO is WORKing continually within us. It is imperative then, that each one of us must fully realize that our journey each day is to be one of a continual and ongoing desire, that as we seek being made Perfect in Christ as God desires, we Journey in Victory together as True and Faithful Believers. Father, YOUR Spirit within me beckons, that YOUR Will and Work be done. Where Faith without works is dead, use my life to accomplish YOUR WORKs, through Faith which is at work in me, O'Lord. To YOUR Higher Calling I must answer, that others may know YOUR Love for them. My strength comes from YOU alone, as I Praise and Honor YOUR Holy Name, forever! Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Thursday October 30, 2008 ( 1 Cheshvan 5769) "Glorious
Scenery!" 2 Peter 1:18-21 (Amplified Bible) We [actually] heard this voice borne out of heaven, for we were together with Him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word [made] firmer still. You will do well to pay close attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dismal (squalid and dark) place, until the day breaks through [the gloom] and the Morning Star rises (comes into being) in your hearts. [Yet] first [you must] understand this, that no prophecy of Scripture is [a matter] of any personal or private or special interpretation (loosening, solving). For no prophecy ever originated because some man willed it [to do so--it never came by human impulse], but men spoke from God who were borne along (moved and impelled) by the Holy Spirit. These WORDs of the Apostle Peter ring loudly in my ears as I listen to Holy Spirit for guidance through each day's travel. A journey of LIFE, which leads me ever deeper into God's Holy Presence. As Peter writes, I must make certain with every determination to listen intentively to the Voice of God, HIS Spirit, and see HIS WORDs written by the prophets of God. These are men who walked closely with HIM, through both the lowest of valleys and upon the summits of mountains. For I too deeply desire to behold HIS Majesty in all of HIS Magnificent Glory upon HIS Holy mountain. Whenever the scenery of someone's journey in life becomes dull and unfulfilling, I must be stirred in my spirit to be Obedient, and tell them about God's Train of Glory. Delivering upon those Promises of Inspiration, Fulfillment and Hope, forever changing their view of life in this present age and in the eternal age which is yet to come. O'Lord, YOU are my Creator and my Source of Life, in YOU will I place my Trust and Hope for eternity. Direct my journey, as I travel through this life, that I might share with others, the fullness of YOUR Majesty, Power and Glory. Show me those scenes of heavenly grandeur, that are revealed only by YOUR Spirit, who guides me to YOUR Sacred mountain each day. Take me past that brazen altar, and into YOUR Holy Place, for my desire is to see YOUR Glorious Face. YOUR Splendor is above all comprehension. YOU are my LORD and KING! Amen *Note: View from Mt Hermon in Israel, Photo courtesy of Sarah abu Saleh, In HIS Footsteps Ministry.
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Wednesday October 29, 2008 ( 30 Tishri 5769) "Cries of a Desparate
Heart!" Acts 8:31 (Amplified Bible)
And he said, How is it possible for me to
do so unless someone explains it to me and guides me [in the
right way]? That question, 'How is it possible for me to do so unless someone explains it to me and guides me to the Truth?', is many times upon the hearts of those who are living in desperation and hopelessness, yet their reluctance of being thought of as ignorant, seals both their lips and their hearts to the Gospel of Christ. Reading Luke's account of how Philip answered this man's plea for deeper understanding, I must not only be listening to God's Voice of Holy Spirit as HE speaks to my heart, but I must also be listening to those words NOT being spoken by those 'Crying out in Desparation'. Their need for a life-changing relationship with the King of Glory must be heard, and Believers must respond as did Phillip. I must be commited in my Obedience to Holy Spirit, just as Philip was, being prepared whenever necessary, to proclaim the Good News of Christ. Declaring the Precious Gift of Salvation and Eternal Life through HIM, proclaiming to all who seek Truth and desire HOPE. Eternal fruit in God's Kingdom is produced whenever and whereever HIS Spirit guides those who are Faithful and Devoted laborers. Knowing God's Truth and sharing it with others, is every Believer's Commission in Christ, Purposed for and Called by God's Spirit, an election that is sure and irrevocable. O'Lord, I long for YOUR Spirit to guide me each day, to lost and hurting souls seeking to know YOU. Filling my heart with YOUR WORD, Faithful and True, prepares me to speak boldy and confidently about YOU. All I am and ever hope to be rests upon YOUR WORDs, and by YOUR Spirit will I be lead to fulfill my calling. I must be forever prepared to do YOUR Good and Perfect Will, in Obedience must I Faithfully share YOUR Gospel of Life. YOU are Holy and Just O'Lord, and YOU are the Lover of my soul. Truth and Righteousness are found only in YOU! Forever and Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Tuesday October 28, 2008 ( 29 Tishri 5769) "In This
Hour!" Romans 13:11 (Amplified Bible) Besides this you know what [a critical] hour this is, how it is high time now for you to wake up out of your sleep (rouse to reality). For salvation (final deliverance) is nearer to us now than when we first believed (adhered to, trusted in, and relied on Christ, the Messiah).The night is far gone and the day is almost here. Let us then drop (fling away) the works and deeds of darkness and put on the [full] armor of light. These Holy Spirit Inspired WORDs of our Lord, as written through the hands of the Apostle Paul, are the 'Wake UP Call' which the Body of Christ must respond to, seeing as the 'Light of Day' has arrived in the hearts of those who have urgent 'Kingdom' business awaiting. Similiar in many ways to that Glorious Resurrection morning, every Believer must 'Rouse to Reality'. We must shake off the complacency and somberness of which our spirit man has been lulled into for a season, and with anticipation and excitement, ARISE to face headon the 'Day of Harvest' that our Lord said would soon be upon us. As the darkness of the night has been spent, it is the 'Dawn of this New Day', which beckons us to 'Put on the Armor of Light'. For it is this 'Helmet of Salvation' which adorns and anoints our head, the LIFE transforming WORD of the Gospel of Christ Jesus. Refreshing as the 'washing of our face' is each morning, it is by the Precious Blood of Jesus that have we been 'Cleansed from all unrighteouness', and ready to be dressed in the 'Robes of Righteouness' which the Lord has sent forth for HIS 'Kings and Priests'. Each morning, Awakened 'Warriors for Christ' must receive 'Spiritual' nourishment from the 'Lord's Table'. Digesting that 'Portion' of HIS WORD which will sustain them during the battle they must face. It is 'In This 'Hour' that directions and duties are meeted out, preparing every Believer for the conflict which is sure to ensue during their 'Going Forth'.
O'Lord, feed me with YOUR Precious
WORD each morning, nourishing my soul and strengthening
my spirit for the day has come. Release to my heart, YOUR Will
and Purpose of this Kingdom Age, that I might be Faithful
to do those Works which YOU have foreordained. I take up that
Shield of Faith and in my hand the Sword of YOUR Spirit,
advancing courageously against the enemy and demolishing every
barrier and stronghold. Declaring Freedom to the captives and
Proclaiming LIFE and Liberty. May I Forever wage battle
against that foe, having robbed and killed so many, that YOUR
Kingdom will flourish upon the earth. Hallelujah, Amen
and Amen!
"Bathed in
Glory!" Titus
3:4-7
(Amplified Bible)
But when the goodness and loving-kindness of God our
Savior to man [as man] appeared, He saved us, not because of
any works of righteousness that we had done, but because of
His own pity and mercy, by [the] cleansing [bath] of the new
birth (regeneration) and renewing of the Holy Spirit, Which He
poured out [so] richly upon us through Jesus Christ our
Savior. [And He did it in order] that we might be justified by
His grace (by His favor, wholly undeserved), [that we might be
acknowledged and counted as conformed to the divine will in
purpose, thought, and action], and that we might become heirs
of eternal life according to [our] hope. As Believers in Christ, we know personally the Powerful conviction notice of sin being issued by Holy Spirit upon hearts drowning in rebellion, offering Life with Hope and direction, advancing in our Knowledge of Christ Jesus and HIS Ways. For those who would choose to live out their days, rebelling against God and HIS WORD, a stern warning of facing an Eternity without any Hope of reconciliation is given. Having been deceived and refusing to recognize their rebellion as sin, it is this Truth that sets men and women free from those thoughts and actions that hold them captive. God and HIS Righteousness offers the only sure Hope for living LIFE in Freedom and Victory! O'Lord, I praise YOU above everything, and worship YOU only in Spirit and in TRUTH. My heart cries out to YOU, for YOUR Spirit groans within me. Knowing that so many will refuse, to heed HIS warning. Guide them by YOUR Spirit to choose living in Truth and receive that Promised inheritance of Salvation and Eternal Life, through YOUR only Son, Christ Jesus, my Lord and Savior. All Praise, Honor and Glory to YOUR Holy Name. Amen.*Note: Photo courtesy of 
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Friday October 24, 2008 ( 25 Tishri 5769) "Such
LOVE!" Ephesians 2:10 (Amplified Bible) For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]. In reading God's WORD and studying a passage such as this one, I realize just how much fullness I have in life because of Christ Jesus and God's Promised Power of Holy Spirit. God provided the Way to LIFE beforehand, and thankfully I have chosen to accept that provision that leads me into those GOOD WORKS which are set in place as part of HIS calling on my life. Those who have been born anew, recreated in Christ to follow and imitate HIM, will have also accepted HIS call for action in their own lives. I continually look towards each opportunity God provides me, with the same passion and excitement as those the day before. Because before, I was dead in my sin, but now I live NEW again in Christ, knowing God chose me, I will Obediently live and do HIS good works where many were also called by HIM but they did not answer. O'Lord, YOU prepared the WAY before me long ago, I was made Alive in YOUR hands. All YOU have for me is made known through Christ, and I choose to listen and obey. For YOUR Ways are Higher and Greater than my ways, which I desire to Live now and Forevermore. Amen. *Note: Photo courtesy of 
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Thursday October 23, 2008 ( 24 Tishri 5769) "Such
LOVE!" Hebrews 12:14-15 (Amplified Bible) Strive to live in peace with everybody and pursue that consecration and holiness without which no one will [ever] see the Lord. Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it-- Desiring the infinite Grace and Mercy of a Holy God, Holy Spirit comes bringing the POWER of Conviction upon the hearts of men. Delivering us in Freedom from the captivity of every evil which troubles, defiles and perverts God's most precious Creation. The example set by Christ for each Believer, is one of living LIFE with intense Love, which to the carnal mind, seems something unattainable. The value of our relationship with Christ must be held in high esteem, or we will have gained nothing. It is in these WORDs inspired by Holy Spirit, that we realize the depth of God's Love concerning HIS Mercy and Grace. Peace comes at such a steep price, where Christ was Willing and Obedient, even to death. HE Reconciled and Restored us into a wholesome and rewarding relationship with our heavenly Father. Believers are to imitate the example set by Christ. Declaring that not one person miss hearing the TRUTH about the Grace of God. Living Committed to HIM who Will RESTORE all things. Testifying in Faithfullness each day as an Obedient Witness of the depths of God's Love. Claiming our rightful inheritance as Sons and Daughters of God, heirs and joint-heirs with Christ in all HIS Glory and Majesty. Father, YOUR Love is deep, YOUR Love is long, It is wide, and I must be strong. Where YOUR Love is also high, I must be willing to Obey YOU all the daylong. No other course in this life, must I follow, other than the journey I am on, where in Eternity, I will stand before Your throne. My heart's desire must for evermore be, to reflect YOUR Love that everyone might see, what Christ can do with a wretched man like me! YOU alone O'Lord, are Worthy of all my Praise. Amen *Note: Photo courtesy
of
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Wednesday October 22, 2008 ( 23 Tishri 5769) "Guardianship!" 1 Corinthians 13:11-12 (Amplified Bible) When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; now that I have become a man, I am done with childish ways and have put them aside. For now we are looking in a mirror that gives only a dim (blurred) reflection [of reality as in a riddle or enigma], but then [when perfection comes] we shall see in reality and face to face! Now I know in part (imperfectly), but then I shall know and understand fully and clearly, even in the same manner as I have been fully and clearly known and understood [by God]. It is a magnificent thing to know more about God and HIS Love for us by HIS Spirit, who reveals the many TRUTHs of HIS WORD that were previously clouded by our immaturity. As the Apostle Paul reflects on his personal understanding of God prior to encountering the Living Savior, childish and immature is probably where many see themselves in their relationship with Christ today. The more mature Believers must recognize this, and commit to being spiritual mentors. Are we not responsible, as Paul urges, for the mentoring and training of these Believers, who need encouragement to grow in their Faith? God's Spirit is our Counselor and Guide to opening our spiritual eyes and ears to a deeper Understanding of God and HIS Ways, and how we must live as Mature Believers in Christ Jesus. Now, more than ever may be the time for many of us to become Guardians, Believers in Christ who will take responsibility for training and teaching others, so they may grow in their Faith, Knowledge and Power of God's TRUTH. HIS Kingdom message is to be firmly established in the hearts and minds of our younger brothers and sisters in Christ, by the Obedience of mature Believers who recognize they are called to Proclaim and Declare the POWER of the Life changing Gospel. O'Lord, give me a double portion, of YOUR Spirit for understanding. YOU are my source of knowledge and strength, to bear YOUR message of Eternal HOPE. Teach me, O'Lord, more of what I am in YOU, for I desire to be a Guardian of YOUR TRUTH forever. Amen! *Note: Photo courtesy
of
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Tuesday October 21, 2008 ( 22 Tishri 5769) "Carried by
Grace!" James 5:10-11 (Amplified Bible) [As] an example of suffering and ill-treatment together with patience, brethren, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord [as His messengers]. You know how we call those blessed (happy) who were steadfast [who endured]. You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the Lord's [purpose and how He richly blessed him in the] end, inasmuch as the Lord is full of pity and compassion and tenderness and mercy. The Apostle James lived and walked daily with Christ, and was reminded of the sufferings of Job and how Jehovah God blessed Job after overwhelming calamity robbed him of his family and his possessions. These WORDS are a Hope and Encouragement for Believers in Christ Jesus. Inspired by Holy Spirit to be written and recorded through the hand of the JUST, have Faithfully portrayed TRUTH and continue as PROMISED for over 2000 years. As Believers in Christ, we are a Blessing and a Delight unto our Lord! HE has throughout time Blessed HIS children, abundantly and exceedingly great, far above anything we could ever ask or even imagine! Receiving every Blessing from God in our lives requires Obedience and Submission to HIM, a visible testimony by which the hopeless and lost of the world see through our lives the KING of Glory, seated on HIS Majestic Throne at the right hand of the Father. Our LORD's Compassion and Mercy is available to all men who humbly seek HIM, the One True God, who created all heaven and earth. These WORDs which James has so passionately written, continue bearing fruit to this day, manifesting within the lives of Believers around the world, clear evidence of Holy Spirit indwelling us. O' Lord my God, YOU are my everything, Upon YOUR very WORD I cling. YOU know my every need of Life, Strengthening me during distress and strife. I speak couragessly of YOUR Mercy and Love, as YOU keep watch over me,YOUR child from above. For YOUR Glory and Honor, Is Forever, Amen!!! *Note: Photo courtesy
of
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Monday October 20, 2008 ( 21 Tishri 5769) "A Trusting
Faith!" 1 Peter 1:3-5 (Amplified Bible) Praised (honored, blessed) be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah)! By His boundless mercy we have been born again to an ever-living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [Born anew] into an inheritance which is beyond the reach of change and decay [imperishable], unsullied and unfading, reserved in heaven for you, Who are being guarded (garrisoned) by God's power through [your] faith [till you fully inherit that final] salvation that is ready to be revealed [for you] in the last time. These WORDs from the Apostle Peter, spoken 2000 years ago, resound even today in the ears of every true Believer in Christ, as a reminder of our HOPE in HIM who has POWER to save our souls from eternal separation from God's presence. Why would someone with a past history of denial, suddenly somehow have such a profound hope in someone other than himself? Many Believers today, may find themselves at such a place of deep revelation and renewed committment in their walk of Faith, much like Peter did. Suffering grief and all kinds of trials in life, having placed their FAITH in their own power and wealth, many continue refusing to completely humble themselves at the feet of Christ, who selflessly sacrificed HIS life. Even resisting as Peter did, to the point of denying God's call to live in Holiness and Righteousness through the POWER of Holy Spirit! There are even some who will continue to question the refining of our FAITH which Peter refers to in these verses. O'Lord, YOU purchased my soul with YOUR blood.
More precious than all the world's gold. The only acceptable
offering that I have to give YOU, is my Praise
and Worship, for YOU are my Adonai. Christ Jesus, my Deliverer and Redeemer.
In YOU alone do I place my Trust, for YOU are
Worthy. Amen!
*Note: Photo courtesy
of
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Friday October 17, 2008 ( 18 Tishri 5769) "LOVE, Lives and
Speaks!" 1 John 3:18-20 (Amplified Bible) Little children, let us not love [merely] in theory or in speech but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity). By this we shall come to know (perceive, recognize, and understand) that we are of the Truth, and can reassure (quiet, conciliate, and pacify) our hearts in His presence, Whenever our hearts in [tormenting] self-accusation make us feel guilty and condemn us. [For we are in God's hands.] For He is above and greater than our consciences (our hearts), and He knows (perceives and understands) everything [nothing is hidden from Him]. Believers in Christ are a people that have been called and set apart from the things of this world, having had our eyes opened to the Truth, longing to be forever in HIS Holy Presence. 'Come OUT from Babylon', must be the desire of our heart, knowing that separation will deepen our Love for HIM. When all around there seems to be very little Hope, Believers are setting their hearts at REST in Christ Jesus. Our Love for God and one another is expressed best by our obedience to HIS Will, comforting and encouraging, declaring Hope to those who have looked to the things of this world, but have only found desparation. Believers are separated for service to others in the Name of our Lord, being Obedient is both a visible and POWERful witness of HIS Love, and Proclaiming God's WORD is a vital part of that testimony. O'Lord, I see YOUR hand of Mercy, and I hear YOUR Voice calling me to live by Faith. Though all around me, there is a shaking and sifting, I have found REST in YOUR Presence, that Solid Rock upon which I must stand. Set my Soul afire O'Lord with YOUR Holy Spirit, and guide my heart as I declare YOUR Gospel of Hope to the desparate and hopeless, lost in the darkness of this late hour. YOUR Will is that none should perish, but be delivered from the enemy's snare. This is my heart's desire, to bring them to YOU, for it is only in YOU that LIFE can be found. Each day I will serve YOU, my Lord. El Shaddai, YOUR Name is Holy. Amen.
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Thursday October 16, 2008 ( 17 Tishri 5769) "A KING's
Servant!" 1 Peter 2:15-17 (Amplified Bible) For it is God's will and intention that by doing right [your good and honest lives] should silence (muzzle, gag) the ignorant charges and ill-informed criticisms of foolish persons.[Live] as free people, [yet] without employing your freedom as a pretext for wickedness; but [live at all times] as servants of God. God's WORD says that HE will use the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. Although it is not desirable to be a servant, in any shape, form or fashion, but rather to be well known and respected as someone of greatness. Believers must understand that by our becoming humble, others around us will know it is Christ Jesus whom we serve, bringing HIM the Honor and Glory that is due a KING. The Apostle Peter told of God's Son and HIS humble birth, coming from HIS Royal position in heaven into this world, not to be served but to serve others. How is it then, that many today desire to be served by others at every turn? In every way being contrary and completely opposite of the Life we must live as Believers in Christ. Enduring the accusations, threats and punishment by the religious leaders of HIS day, Christ could not completely reveal HIMSELF to them as WHO HE REALLY IS, because they would have been blinded by HIS Majestic Glory. Rather, Jesus became our example of a servant, NEVER excersizing HIS freedom as the KING of kings in any way other than to bring Honor to God our Father. An Obedient servant, is one who listens to and does what their MASTER desires. Striving to do those things which HE commands, given Power by HIS Spirit to accomplish them. Love HIM as our heavenly Father, and also loving our Brothers and Sisters in Christ, as HE Loves us. Being HIS servants, revealing HIS Glory to others each day. O'Lord, in YOU does Freedom forever Reign, and as my KING I will sing and I will dance with Joy for YOU. Granted Power by YOUR Spirit, I am able to serve others who are hurting and have lost all hope. Called to live as an heir of Righteousness in Christ Jesus, I must listen to and heed my Lord and Master's Voice. Declaring to all YOUR Gospel of Liberty and Life. Amen! *Note: Painting of 'Jesus washing Peter's feet' by Ford Madox Brown in 1865, English
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Wednesday October 15, 2008 ( 16 Tishri 5769) "The Greater
LIFE!" Matthew 6:25 (Amplified Bible) Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing? We must understand the importance of these WORDs spoken by Christ, realizing just how much HE Loves each of us. If HE cares more for us than the flowers or birds, then ought we not begin to understand what HIS direction for our lives should be? We as Believers in Christ must not worry about those things that do not have eternal consequences, but rather those that do. Our HOPE lies not in what God provides as sufficient for all of creation, we should be more concerned as to what God has provided for man's eternal salvation, and that is through Christ, HIS Son, that we should be Joyfully proclaiming to those around us who do not KNOW and TRUST HIM as Lord and Savior. What more PEACE do we have, knowing that our loving Father has provided a greater HOPE, an eternal PROMISE, for our eternal destiny, instead of one filled with despair, worry and spiritual death. HE offers direction by Holy Spirit, yet we must be willing to follow those Divine directions. Leading us to Victorious Living in Christ, and inspires us to share HIM with our family, friends and anyone who is searching for direction in this life! O'Lord, everything YOU have created, depends solely upon YOUR Grace and Mercy. I must remember each day, the sacrifice of Love that YOU gave. No other path in my journey of life, will take me in the direction YOU have prepared for my eternal soul. Direct my footsteps as I fulfill YOUR Plan for my life. Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Tuesday October 14, 2008 ( 15 Tishri 5769) "Directed to
Destiny!" 1 Timothy 4:9-14 (Amplified Bible) This saying is reliable and worthy of complete acceptance by everybody. With a view to this we toil and strive, [yes and] suffer reproach, because we have [fixed our] hope on the living God, Who is the Savior (Preserver, Maintainer, Deliverer) of all men, especially of those who believe (trust in, rely on, and adhere to Him). Continue to command these things and to teach them. Let no one despise or think less of you because of your youth, but be an example (pattern) for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Believers in Christ are urged both, by ministers of the gospel and by the WORD of God, to continue serving the Lord with the gift they have received, reaching their destiny and fullness in HIM. It is of no less importance today than was during the days when Paul strongly encouraged Timothy and many other faithful Believers to continue devoting their lives to being examples of Christ, laboring with love for everyone. In this present day of religious and secular division, many Believer's vision of their committment to work, and their pursuit of goals, there is a vacuum which exists in their spiritual pursuit concerning commitment to the task of living in their God ordained destiny. Unless, like Timothy, a teacher or mentor much like Paul, continues to encourage and provide them with necessary guidance, some Believers may become weak, discouraged and even lax in their labors. Believers have been given a mandate by Christ to labor in Love, declaring this Gospel of Restoration and Redemption to all who seek direction in their lives. O'Lord, YOU have placed within me a burning desire for more of YOU. Teach me those TRUTHS that are mine, by Holy Spirit, as I labor to learn. YOU have kept YOUR every PROMISE, and to fulfill my destiny and purpose in YOU, do I yearn. Guide me each day to be an example of YOUR Love, so that others will be encouraged to remain steadfast to their calling in YOU. Amen.
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Monday October 13, 2008 ( 14 Tishri 5769) "Witnesses of
Truth!" John 1:6-7 (Amplified Bible) There came a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came to witness, that he might testify of the Light, that all men might believe in it [adhere to it, trust it, and rely upon it] through him. This scripture refers to John, son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who became known as the Forerunner of Christ. It is the Apostle John's mention of him and his testimony of Christ, that we must realize that each day we live, our LIFE must be a testimony both by our actions as well as the words which we speak! Being called as a witness of those things we have seen and heard, it is the testimony that we give, which places us in the WITNESS Stand veiwed by those who hear what we say and look at the LIFE that we live. Our acceptance of the call as a witness giving testimony, requires us to have firsthand Knowledge of the Truth. We discredit our Lord and Savior, when we are unable to provide proof of HIS Forgiveness, Power and saving Grace! It is imperative that we are consumed with a burning desire and hunger for greater knowledge of HIM. Convincing and effective Testimony depends soully on our knowledge and our personal experience with Christ. Becoming a useful witness for Christ requires that we know HIM, communicate daily with HIM in prayer and be as John, dedicate our lives to proclaiming God's Son as the Light that came into this world that others might believe in HIM. O'Lord guide me each day to be a worthy witness of YOUR Gospel. May YOUR WORDs be in my mouth and upon my lips, having changed my heart. A clear testimony my life must be, an example that YOU are the Giver of LIFE. In no other name will I place my Hope, my Trust or my Eternity. For it is Jesus, my Savior and Lord who has Redeemed me. Of HIM will I testify all of my days. Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Friday October 10, 2008 ( 11 Tishri 5769) "River of
Power!" Acts 11:16-17 (Amplified Bible) When I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on
them just as He did on us at the beginning. Then I recalled the declaration of the Lord, how
He said, John indeed baptized with water, but you shall
be baptized with (be placed in, introduced into) the Holy
Spirit. Luke records this testimony as the Apostle Peter tells of those uncircumcized men in the city of Joppa, upon whom the Power of Holy Spirit fell. Asking his listeners how any could hinder or even question what the Lord was doing as a visible reminder of HIS Promise, tends to be labeled as doubt instead of an act of an increased measure of Faith in HIS WORD. Many times is Holy Spirit refered to as a 'River' in God's WORD. A source of Life and Power, often mentioned as a clear sign of the Lord's Faithfulness to empower HIS Disciples to accomplish even greater things for the Kingdom. When Cornelius and the others in his household heard Peter's declaration of the Gospel of Christ Jesus, their hearts were 'circumcized' by Holy Spirit. This baptism into God's Spirit, presents us with a vivid image of what happens spiritually when our 'heart of flesh' is cut away and replaced with HIS heart. This and many other references to the 'River of God', releasing HIS POWER upon men's hearts, forever transforms us not only spiritually, but physically as well. If no one were able to visibly see this change, then something that should have happened evidently didn't, yet we must never question whether or not the Lord's Promise of Power and Authority was true in the 1st century or is still Truth for today. Each Believer who completely surrenders themselves to the Lord, will be 'flooded' with God's 'Power from on High', exactly the same as HE did for those to whom Peter preached the Gospel of Redemption and Restoration through Christ Jesus. O'Lord, open my understanding to more of YOUR Truth, that I may be a living example of YOUR Son. Baptized with YOUR Power, may others see how YOU have changed my life, and seek all that YOU have for them. YOUR Promise fulfilled in every Way, send us forth as Mighty Warriors, proclaiming Victory to ears yearning for LIFE. Mercy and Grace flows like a 'rushing river' from YOUR Glorious Throne, O'Lord. Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Thursday October 9, 2008 ( 10 Tishri 5769) Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) "Supreme
Sacrifice!" John 3:14 (Amplified Bible) And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert [on a pole], so must [so it is necessary that] the Son of Man be lifted up [on the cross], The atonement for sin and trespass against Jehovah God, requires that each person who desires to LIVE, must look to Christ Jesus for LIFE. As HE hung upon Calvary's cross, choosing to die as the supreme sacrifice, Jesus gave HIS Life as the eternal payment required to settle my debt, and take upon HIMself the penalty and judgement for my transgression. For centuries, mankind has feebly tried to substitute and even nullify the importance of having need of a Savior, ONE who would take upon HIMself the cruelty of affliction and chastisement for sin. Whereas, I was once upon those 'Scales of Judgement and Justice', bound by sin and death, it is now that those 'scales' have been removed from my eyes, that I might see Jesus as HE hangs opposite me, bearing my penalty. God's Holy Spirit brings LIFE as I confess my sin and receive the Freedom offered in Christ, as Paul the Apostle says of what HE did at the Cross of Calvary. HIS Precious Blood has been freely poured upon the 'Altar of heaven', completely and forever nullifying that debt I owed. As a Day of Remembrance, not that any day is different or more important than another, yet on the day before Christ was to be crucified, HE shared a 'Communion of Spiritual Wisdom', giving HIS Disciples a clear picture of what HIS death meant. There is no other 'Picture' that speaks more clearly, of a Sacrifice of LOVE, than does that cruel 'Cross on a hill'. Where Christ was 'Lifted Up', that all men would be drawn to HIM, receiving Forgiveness and by HIS Resurrection, an inheritance as joint-heirs of Righteousness, to forever stand in the Eternal Presence of our heavenly Father. O'Lord, that YOU would be so Merciful and Gracious to me a sinner. That by YOUR death, I might have LIFE, boundless and Free. To YOU all Praise, Honor and Glory, as YOU are the Lamb that was slain. No other sacrifice is required, but that I die to my self, that YOU might LIVE in me. Consecrated and set apart that only YOU be Exalted, my destiny in YOU is to Proclaim this Gospel of Salvation to all who have need of a Savior. To know YOU is to serve YOU, my Lord and my King, forevermore. Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Wednesday October 8, 2008 ( 9 Tishri 5769) "This Season of
Reign!" Acts 2:17 (Amplified Bible) And it shall come to pass in the last days, God declares, that I will pour out of My Spirit upon all mankind, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy [telling forth the divine counsels] and your young men shall see visions (divinely granted appearances), and your old men shall dream [divinely suggested] dreams. This generation of Believers in Christ is to be seen as a Holy people whom God's Spirit is being poured out upon in great measure. Given supernatural POWER to proclaim HIS WORD throughout the earth. As the Lord has chosen many to be HIS representatives, each one must strive to be exact replicas of Jesus. That in each of us, HIS Love, Compassion and Mercy for the lost be seen as a Testimony of HIS desire that none perish, but receive an inheritance of Eternal Life. This scripture is a Promise being fulfilled right before our very eyes. It is of the utmost importance, that as Believers we begin to declare those things of which our eyes and ears of spiritual understanding have been opened. All claims that God is opening up the heavens, releasing upon the Faithful, from HIS storehouse of Blessings, so much Favor that when visible to the world, they are abundant, overflowing and being used to further advance and firmly establish HIS Covenant within the hearts of men. Exactly what Christ Jesus declared as HIS Purpose, coming to give LIFE where death once ruled, and give LIFE more abundantly, revealing eternal principles of Kingdom Truth as HE sovereignly Reigns over our hearts, that we might receive HIM as Lord and Savior, serving HIM as our King. O'Lord, make me as a vessel of Holiness and Righteousness for YOUR Glory. To be used as that shining Light that leads others to Christ Jesus. May YOUR Blessing and Favor be seen upon YOUR People, as a Witness to the world that needs HOPE. As I proclaim YOUR Gospel of Redemption and Forgiveness through Christ' Precious Blood that was poured out at Calvary, making known that TRUTH which sets men free from that yoke of bondage. Bearing the Good News of YOUR Kingdom, so that many might gain an inheritance of LIFE in YOUR Glorious Presence for Eternity. In Jesus' Name, which is above every Name, Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Monday October 6, 2008 ( 7 Tishri 5769) "Radiant
Resource!" Acts 13:47 (Amplified Bible) For so the Lord has charged us, saying, I have set you to be a light for the Gentiles (the heathen), that you may bring [eternal] salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth. All that can be said about why Christ Jesus
spoke so much about being a Light to the world, can be summed
up into just a few short sentences like this. We have been
'charged' with such a great commission, that for the sake of
those without Hope, our Obedience to HIS WORD is of the utmost
importance and at the very heart of the
Gospel.
Jesus makes
it very clear to us, that HE is the LIGHT that came into this
world filled with darkness and despair. HIS Purpose, to bring
illumination and salvation, the Good News of God's Kingdom,
being the fulfillment of the Promised Savior for
mankind.
We must
remember what our lives were like before we came to the Light,
often wandering hopelessly about, stumbling through life
without purpose nor peace.
The oft used
phrase which so many have adopted, testifies to the POWER of
having Christ as the LIGHT that gives LIFE..
NO Jesus.... NO Peace!
KNOW Jesus..... KNOW PEACE!!!
How else will
others find HIM, unless I am willing to Proclaim that Christ
Jesus is the ONE Source of LIGHT that will never fade away. I
must be a Radiant Resource that reflects and disburses the
Glorious message of LIFE, prevailing over the darkness which
attempts to hide the Truth from the eyes of those entangled in
the darkest depths of despair.
O'Lord, YOU are the Shining Light which delivers
us from the stronghold of darkness. Filled with YOUR Spirit to
bear the Good News to the captives. YOUR WORD releases them
from those chains, draws them to see YOUR Provision, with
their eyes opened to the Truth. In this place YOU have set me
and I must bear the Light to guide others to the safety found
only in YOUR Son. It is in HIS Glorious Name that I pray all
this. Amen.
Friday October 3, 2008 ( 4 Tishri 5769)'A Warrior's Daily Journal'
Devotional Philipians 1:8-10 (Amplified Bible) For God is my witness how I long for and pursue you all with love, in the tender mercy of Christ Jesus [Himself]! And this I pray: that your love may abound yet more and more and extend to its fullest development in knowledge and all keen insight [that your love may display itself in greater depth of acquaintance and more comprehensive discernment], So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble]. If I am to understand what the Apostle Paul means by 'discerning what is best', I must look deeply into God's WORD for 'increased knowledge' and 'insight into the depths' of just how much affection Christ Jesus has for all who believe in HIM. Love is a necessary and vital part of life, comprised of a myriad of emotions, some shallow and superficial while others are deep and oftentimes heart wrenching. To understand what Paul is desiring as he writes, that knowing the 'affection of Christ Jesus', I am urged to follow an example portrayed through the sacrificial life, agonizing death and Glorious resurrection of my Lord and Savior. While Life is so often characterized merely by the quality of living, Paul is attempting to portray the LOVE which Christ expressed 2000 years ago at Calvary. As the 'foundation' was being laid in the hearts of HIS disciples, it is upon this LOVE, which HIS church would be built and stand strong throughout the ages, despite the hurts and broken committments that in some ways test even the most dedicated Believer. Being much more than just a casual acquaintance, but as an ageless Testimony and Witness to the world of such self-less sacrifice, through HIS Spirit would Believers be romanced into a binding and everlasting Covenant relationship with Christ, remaining pure and blameless towards that day of HIS soon return. Father, YOUR Love for me is such a comforting bliss, sweet fellowship with kisses that I dare not miss. YOUR hands extended towards me both in Passion and pain, a sight that lifts my heart with such comforting gain. By YOUR Spirit is my life made new and whole, a Promise and a seal that strenghens my weary soul. YOU walk with me each day as a Lover and dear friend, I dare not miss one moment as my life will someday end! My Faith rests upon YOU and YOUR unchanging WORD, the most Precious Love song I have ever heard!!! YOU sing and dance over me as I watch for YOUR Glorious return! O'Lord, I will magnify and exalt YOUR Name in all the earth! Amen! Note: Thumbnail print used by
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'A Warrior's Daily Journal'
Devotional John 7:38 (Amplified
Bible) He who believes in Me [who cleaves to and trusts
in and relies on Me] as the Scripture has said, From his
innermost being shall flow [continuously] springs and rivers
of living water. As the Apostle John records these WORDs of
Christ spoken as the Samaritan woman came to draw water
from the well, it is the image of a free-flowing river which
stands out in my mind as a true revelation of God's Promise of
LIFE given to mankind. Revelation 22:1
(Amplified Bible) THEN HE showed me the river whose
waters give life, sparkling like crystal, flowing out
from the throne of God and of the Lamb. Again, the LORD reveals the LIFE
giving quality found in Christ Jesus, providing spiriutal
nourishment which heals the wounds inflicted upon God's people
throughout every nation upon the earth. Restoring health to
HIS people who have been downtrodden and reviled for their
unwavering Faith. Whenever it seems that the pains of
this life have overtaken us, this picture offers HOPE and
PEACE in the very midst of troubling circumstances. I can
almost hear the Voice of my Savior, sounding like the soft
tumbling of water, as it flows through a rocky pathway.
Leading into a crystal pool, calm and inviting as it nourishes
and refreshes a land, once as dry and thirsty as my
soul. Desiring to drink from those cool,
deep waters, I not only realize the importance of quenching my
physical thirst, but also the spiritual thirst of my
heart. Those WORDs of comfort, a renewing of my soul from
every hurt and pain, offers but only a glimpse of the
breath-taking beauty to be seen in the eternal landscape
of heaven. The importance of a firm
foundation, planted along the River of LIFE, drinking of the
continuous Living Water which flows from the very Throne of
God, exceeds the human understanding. This is why Christ was
so adamant in HIS teaching of Kingdom LIFE, that of those who
desire to know and worship God, it is imperative they do
so by receiving HIS Spirit and the revelation of
such Truth from HIS WORD. O'Lord,
as I listen to YOUR Voice I hear a sound much like a mighty
flowing river.Teeming with LIFE, YOU nourish my heart
and satisfy my thirst for Peace. I must share YOUR Living
Water with others each day, for many are sick and in need of
healing. Praise the Lamb of God, from HIS Throne flows
Grace, Mercy and Love!
Amen!
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'
Devotional 1
Peter 1:10-12 (Amplified Bible) The prophets, who
prophesied of the grace (divine blessing) which was intended
for you, searched and inquired earnestly about this
salvation. They sought [to find out] to whom or when this
was to come which the Spirit of Christ working within them was
indicating when He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the
glories that should follow [them]. It was then disclosed
to them that the services they were rendering were not meant
for themselves and their period of time, but for you. [It is
these very] things which have now already been made known
plainly to you by those who preached the good news (the
Gospel) to you by the [same] Holy Spirit sent from heaven.
Into these things [the very] angels long to look! Luke records these WORDs of Christ, Luke 6:45 The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks. It is the message of the Gospel that is of such eternal wealth, that men and women throughout 2000 years have held dearly to the 'treasure' of God's WORD, having spoken of the abundance, when so often they had little or no earthly possessions. We are to look deeply into what God's Spirit has to reveal, of how Christ left behind HIS Majesty and Honor in heaven to become poor, that we might inherit the 'riches' and knowledge of the Kingdom of God. The treasures of Holiness and Righteousness are HIS gifts of supernatural wealth, unequaled by any of this world's assessment. We must remember the WORDs of Christ which direct us to, 'Seek first HIS Kingdom and HIS Righteousness, and all these things will be given to you also.' O'Lord, guide me as I seek YOUR thoughts and ways, for they are Truth and are worth more than silver or gold. May I share these riches with others, as YOUR Spirit guides me. The wealth of YOUR heavenly Kingdom awaits all who find YOUR gift of LOVE, becoming jewels that array YOUR Crown of LIFE. All Glory, Honor and Power in heaven and earth are YOURs, my LORD and my KING. Amen!
The Vision of The Agape Letters Ministry is to
Equip, Exhort and Inspire Believers to become Victorious Spiritual
Warriors of Christ Jesus. Training them to Boldly and Courageously
Advance the Kingdom WORK of God, recognizing the FirePOWER available
to them under the anointing and presence of Holy Spirit within their
lives. Encouraging them to Walk by Faith, fulfilling the mandate of
Proclaiming the Gospel as Ambassadors of Christ throughout
every nation upon the earth.
For HIS Glory,
Jake
Tribble
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