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FUEL for the
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The Agape
Letters Ministry Newsletter
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Friday February 27, 2009 (3 Adar 5769) "Heart Burn - A Passionate
FIRE!" Luke 24:32 (Amplified Bible)And they said to one another, Were not our hearts greatly moved and burning within us while He was talking with us on the road and as He opened and explained to us [the sense of] the Scriptures? As I recall my first encounter with the King of Glory, journeying down my road of life, I too felt that burning desire within my heart to be a bold witness of Christ, proclaiming HIM as Lord and Savior to a lost and dying generation that now many years later, still rejects Christ as Savior and Lord, without any HOPE of Eternity in the Presence of Almighty God. Holy Spirit burns upon my heart those Scriptures that have been opened and revealed to me, of God's never ending desire that all men return to HIM, becoming reconciled into spiritual fellowship, hungering and thirsting for more of HIM, desiring to obtain HIS Glory that exists within the Kingdom that belongs to HIS Son, Christ Jesus. HIS Holy Fire burns night and day, producing Light by which all men must have in order to find their way to that empty grave, where once the crucified Lamb of God lay, having bore God's judgement for the sin of every man, offering HIS own life as the one and only atoning sacrifice which leads to forgiveness and victory through HIS Resurrection. HIS Church, believing HIS WORD, empowered by Holy Spirit, must be completely consumed by HIS Holy FIRE, having a flaming, raging and compassionate desire that is never to be quenched nor satisfied until that time when Christ returns for HIS Bride. She is to be busy in her Father's work, having been washed in the Blood of the Lamb, adorned with HIS robes of righteousness, prepared and patiently waiting for her Bridegroom who promises HIS Glorious return to be near. O'Lord, purify YOUR church, YOUR bride, that she
be ready at YOUR unexpected coming. Purify my heart O'Lord
with this one desire, that others may see YOUR Love burning
within me. To be Holy, set apart for YOU my Master, a witness
of YOU enflamed by YOUR Spirit, searing my heart with YOUR
Eternal WORD, ready to do YOUR WIll. That not one soul be
lost, to forever be without YOU.
Amen
"Peace, the Fruit of
Unity!" James 3:18 And the harvest of righteousness (of conformity to God's will in thought and deed) is [the fruit of the seed] sown in peace by those who work for and make peace [in themselves and in others, that peace which means concord, agreement, and harmony between individuals, with undisturbedness, in a peaceful mind free from fears and agitating passions and moral conflicts]. James learned firsthand that harmony prevails only where the Seed of Peace has been sown and matures to fullness. God's Spirit cultivates and nourishes this Truth in the hearts of those who long for agreement and harmony, similiar to what he was Witness of in the life of Christ. As many siblings will agree, a tendancy for rival between themselves, very often forces a parent to correct their childlike behavior. Handling this with Love, is how Jesus brings about Order from the midst of chaos. Intervening in the lives of Spiritual Brothers and Sisters to bring about Peace, is the role Holy Spirit has been given with Authority to both correct and discipline God's children. This at times, is uncomfortable, yet in the process, a bond will develops which strengthens the relationship, and the fruit of Righteousness is able to manifest. God's Will for every Believer, is that each grow into mature Sons and Daughters, becoming United as one in Faith, just as Jesus prayed we would become. Corporate Individuality is a term often used to define the fellowship we have together as Believers in the Body of Christ, but much more than that, is that as individuals we must work in harmony as a corporate being. Laboring Faithfully in Love alongside one another, ensures that the Kingdom of God flourishes even in the midst of drought and famine. O'Lord, may our
labors be fruitful and pleasing to YOU. Guide us with the
gentle correction of YOUR Spirit, disciplining us with LOVE.
Nourish the Seed of Peace in our hearts, that the Harvest of
Righteousness be abundant and overflowing in the fields of the
earth.
Amen
"Mustard Seed and Wild
Birds!" Luke 13:18-20 This led Him to say, What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his own garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the wild birds found shelter and roosted and nested in its branches. And again He said, To what shall I liken the kingdom of God? Several times throughout the scriptures, Christ Jesus makes a comparison as to what the Kingdom of God is like. Luke writes of Jesus comparing the Kingdom to a grain of a mustard seed, the smallest of seeds yet able to grow into a tree that shelters, feeds and nurtures the wild birds that flock in it's branches. The Kingdom of God must be considered as the Tree of Life, that when planted within the fertile soil of our hearts, it will grow and mature to a height and fullness that supplies the very necessities needed by those who seek it's covering for strength and substance. The comparison of God's Kingdom, like that of my Faith in HIS Provision, providing for those whose hearts have been transformed by the Spirit of God, from a rocky and unproductive desert to a fertile and productive oasis. Understandably it could be said that our lives before Christ(BC), quite possibly resemble that of the fowl(foul), flittering about without place or purpose. Jesus uses the image of wild birds, to demonstrate an example that draws both a connection and a conclusion. Connecting with the revelation that my old nature was wild and untameable, seaching for stability and strength. Finding the branches(arms) of a loving God, who offers sufficiently, a supply of Seed and a covering of shelter from the storms of life. Where my longing is met in Christ, this conclusion reveals such a dramatic implication, that I have realized HIS Kingdom exists for a single purpose. As a spiritual incubator, Gloriously designed to raise young Believers into mature Believers fed by HIS WORD. Equipped with the Power of HIS Spirit and purposed to carry the Gospel abroad, as on the wings of an eagle, Boldly and full of Grace. O'Lord, YOUR
Kingdom is a refuge for my soul. Reaching the depths of
my heart with the Glorious heights of YOUR Majesty. YOUR
outstretched arms are branches that support me when I am
tired. YOUR WORD nourishes me when I hunger. YOU
are my shelter from the foul desires of this
world. In YOU have I chosen to live forever,
Amen
"IQ (Intimate
Quest)!" 1 Corinthians 2:7 But rather what we are setting forth is a wisdom of God once hidden [from the human understanding] and now revealed to us by God--[that wisdom] which God devised and decreed before the ages for our glorification [to lift us into the glory of His presence]. As it was in the days of Paul, so is it today, knowledge worldwide accelerates at such a rapid rate, that many times it exceeds the comprehension of even the brightest minds. For each Believer in Christ, our journey into a deeper relationship with our Beloved Savior, depends greatly upon our individual search through God's revealed WORD for Wisdom. Our zeal for knowledge of God and HIS thoughts and ways, is quite similiar to that of Paul's, sustained only by Holy Spirit. Anyone's quest for understanding in the principles of Kingdom living, must never be simply for the accumilation of vain knowledge, but one that brings all Believers into Unity as One Body. Society defines knowledge as the sum of our intellectual understanding, yet God defines knowledge as the measure of fullness in Christ manifesting through the Life of every Believer. Separated not by the height of our scholarly achievements, which are ranked as the measure of knowledge possessed by a person, but God possesses Believers by setting each apart by the manifest Presence of HIS Spirit in our hearts. This produces Righteousness which reflects our intimacy with HIM. We have been given the 'mind of Christ', of which there are no worldly accolades that are equal in comparison to the accomplished WORK of Christ in the hearts of Believers. Committed as Paul to decreeing an age of Kingdom Sons and Daughters, where each are empowered with the Manifested Glory of HIM who reveals both Truth and Wisdom. O'Lord, with all my
heart I seek YOUR face, to hear YOUR Voice and learn of YOUR
Ways. A student taught at my Master's feet, gaining an
understanding of the WORK that I must accomplish for YOUR
Glory. My soul prospers in YOUR Presence, and by
YOUR WORD is my life made complete. Amen
"Critical Hour of
Reality!" Romans 13:11 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). Paul's message reverberates in my ears, some 2000 years later, that I must awaken, becoming aroused to the reality that deliverance is even closer at hand. The fulfillment of my HOPE, even nearer than when I first believed and trusted in Christ Jesus. Far be it, that I or any would disregard the urgency of this message. For who would intentionately slumber during the hour of HIS Holy Visitation. Etched forever in my heart, are those WORDs which Christ spoke concerning my eternal future, and HIS desire that I be with HIM where HE is. Burning deep within me is a Fire that is unquenchable. Fueling my thirst for Living Water that completely satisfies, none other compares to the provision given by HIM who paid such a steep ransom for my soul. Many fear the unknown, yet God's Spirit brings understanding to those whose hearts long for knowledge of Life without end. Reminding us of our dependence upon God's WORD for sustanence, filling that void which was once inhabited by desparation. Fully alert to the consequences of missing that most important hour, I must be both Faithful and Diligent in proclaiming HIS Gospel of Salvation to those uncertain of their future. For deliverance awaits those whose hearts have responded in Faith and seared by the Powerful Voice of God, as it will soon be heard thundering from heaven, 'Come up here!' O'Lord, my heart seeks
after YOUR Righteousness, a fertile place for YOUR Spirit to
plant the Seed of YOUR WORD to grow. Gaining knowledge of YOUR
Grace and Mercy, I must speak constantly, Declaring YOUR
Love. All Power and Authority is YOURs alone to give, an
everlastng inheritance Promised to YOUR Kingdom of Sons and
Daughters. My heart must be firmly rooted in YOUR WORD,
reaching the heights of Glory that YOU so Faithfully set
before my eye. An abundant and increasing harvest of pleasing
fruit, many precious souls being delivered into YOUR Kingdom,
Amen
"Advancing
Maturity!" Hebrews 6:1 THEREFORE LET us go on and get past the elementary stage in the teachings and doctrine of Christ (the Messiah), advancing steadily toward the completeness and perfection that belong to spiritual maturity. Let us not again be laying the foundation of repentance and abandonment of dead works (dead formalism) and of the faith [by which you turned] to God, There is such a deep longing in my heart, to mature spiritually towards the completeness and perfection written about here in the Book of Hebrews. Being directed and moved by God's Spirit, from a level of infancy towards a higher level of understanding called maturity. Much similiar to a student who progresses from a position of learning fundamentals, and passionately yearns yet for a deep intimate relationship with HIS Master. The foundational Truths of repentance, given by Christ Jesus are part of the Gospel which comprises the Cornerstone of one's spiritual growth. Along with a total abandonment of fruitless and dead actions, works that are neither purposeful nor profitable. Growing in one's Faith which leads us towards a higher level of Obedience in the building of HIS Kingdom, and refraining from the busy-ness of constructing a kingdom of our own. There is much more to be accomplished, as one diligently searches the heart of God for direction and instruction. Traveling each day along the path which leads us towards Righteousness and Holiness, as it is being revealed by Holy Spirit, our sure and trustworthy Guidance Counselor. O'Lord, teach me each day more of
YOUR Ways and Thoughts, that my life be a pleasing and
acceptable offering in YOUR Sight. Instruct me by YOUR WORDs
of Truth and Light, that I may Praise YOUR Name with my lips.
To live being an example of YOUR Son, where others will seek
and find YOU and Eternal LIFE. Salvation's message comes by
Faith, and works of LIFE reveal YOUR Mercy and Grace. YOUR
Spirit opened deaf ears and blind eyes, to hear and see YOUR
Glorious and Majestic Truth. YOUR WORD spoken in tongues of
men and angels. Hark, heaven's heralding host of angels sing,
and as a Believer, I too must boldly proclaim, Christ Jesus
reigns as my Savior, Lord and King,
Amen
"Accessable by
Faith!" Roman 5:2 Through Him also we have [our] access (entrance, introduction) by faith into this grace (state of God's favor) in which we [firmly and safely] stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God. As Christ Jesus witnessed firsthand the deteriorating state of mankind, HE presented a HOPE for experiencing and enjoying the Glory of our heavenly Father. A HOPE founded in Grace, God's favor towards mankind, allowing Restored Fellowship through HIS Son. For many whose needs exceeded human provision, Christ Jesus declared a message of Kingdom benefits, providing access into the very Presence of heaven and earth's Creator. Just as many today have witnessed in their own lives, needs that could not be met by human intervention, their pleas for HOPE and Provision were answered 2000 years ago. Every day thousands upon thousands search tirelessly, only to find that their future remains as bleak as their past. Knowing all this before Creation, God Sovereignly choose to provide HOPE that soothes the pain of despair and loneliness. Paul wrote only what Holy Spirit revealed, as an encouragement to us, that by standing Firm upon the Promises of God to provide during our weakest moments, Faith in HIS Provision provides access to an immense supply of Favor. Drawing from the well of Living Water, our spirit man is refreshed, changing both our present state and our future as well. Similiar to a field that has been purchased, prepared and planted, the Seed planted there must be nourished with Reign from heaven above. Too long has mankind suffered, mainly due to neglecting God's Provision, and selfishly seeking to correct centuries of lack. Taking inventory of one's present state, should direct us in a direction that leads to experiencing a deeper and greater level of God's Glory. Placing our Faith firmly in Christ, and bearing witness to HIS Grace, abundant and free for the giving. Father, YOUR WORD provides what I
need each day, purpose and strength to labor faithfully in
fields ready for harvest. Favor from YOUR hand is
boundless, and upon YOUR servants, pour out an increased
measure of Boldness and Courage. Dispense YOUR Grace,
calming every storms that rages within our lives. To
the Glory and Honor YOU are due, I humbly pray in
Jesus' Majestic Name,
Amen
"Continue Doing
Good!" Titus 3:8 (Amplified Bible)This message is most trustworthy, and concerning these things I want you to insist steadfastly, so that those who have believed in (trusted in, relied on) God may be careful to apply themselves to honorable occupations and to doing good, for such things are [not only] excellent and right [in themselves], but [they are] good and profitable for the people. Most will agree, that doing 'good' to others will assure 'good' in return. How is it then, that of all the 'good' that one does for others, so often it is either ignored or thought to be done with conditions? Through our daily interactions with others, we must represent Christ Jesus in a way that is 'excellent and right' as Paul writes to Titus. That in doing so, they will see that without conditions or obligations, our concern is to be Obedient rather than self-seeking. For certain, doing 'good' is quite often is the first and only occasion we may have with someone, to present God's Love in a manner that will bring Glory and Honor to HIM. At that single most important place in someone's life, it may well be our Obedience to God's WORD that is seen, touching another so deeply, that they find Comfort and Peace in the midst of despair and loneliness. As Paul says, this is 'profitiable', both excellent and right, for as we live each day knowing all that Christ did at Calvary, then it must become our deepest desire to continue doing 'good', requiring neither condition nor obligation on the part of the one who benefits. The business of the Kingdom of God is centered around Faith, Hope and Love. The greatest being Love, for this portrays Christ as the Light that leads men from darkness, delivering them into the Household of Faith, which is filled with Hope. O'Lord, may each and every day of my
life be centered upon pleasing YOU. Through me display YOUR
Love for those who are drowning in despair and loneliness.
Direct me to them, to show YOUR Compassion and Kindness.
May every breath I take and every move I make, be an
example of YOUR Love for me, a witness that speaks of both
Grace and Mercy that none have earned, but given freely
by YOU to all who will choose Life and accept YOUR
Spirit as Truth,
Amen
"Estate of Spiritual
Kinship!" Ephesians 1:10-11 (Amplified Bible)[He planned] for the maturity of the times and the climax of the ages to unify all things and head them up and consummate them in Christ, [both] things in heaven and things on the earth. In Him we also were made [God's] heritage (portion) and we obtained an inheritance; for we had been foreordained (chosen and appointed beforehand) in accordance with His purpose, Who works out everything in agreement with the counsel and design of His [own] will, In
this letter Paul writes concerning Christ Jesus
as God's appointed Administrator and
Executor of the Kingdom Covenant, guided by Holy
Spirit, Paul Declares both the Purpose and
Portion of this agreement, dispensed in Grace by our
Sovereign Creator.
Kinsmen by
birth, lay claim to their assigned
Inheritance, a Spiritual endowment which awaits those Mature
and Unified Sons and Daughters of Faith. Designed and Willed
by God, an agreement that has been sealed with a mark which
proves God records every Believer's appointment long
before they were conceived.
Christ Jesus was born in the womb by God's Spirit,
and by HIS Resurrection became the First Fruit of a
vast lineage of men and women who, upon fulfillment of this
Kingdom Age, will rightfully partake of the
Son's Inheritance.
Spiritual kinship is subject only to God's
Rule and Order, defined and designed by Divine Counsel, with
One Eternal Purpose. Those born of HIS Spirit and Subject only
to heaven and earth's KING and Judge, are
eligible.
Paul wrote these WORDs with deep conviction,
having heard them with Spiritual 'ears'. One can only
reason, that God is Faithful in HIS Promise to Sign this
Covenant with the Blood of Jesus. Sealing HIS
children with Holy Spirit and Delivering them as a Father
would a dowry of souls, United as a Body into the
hands of our
Bridegroom.
O'Lord, anoint my ears to hear YOUR WORD,
becoming my Portion and Provision. YOUR Truth bears a
Crown of Life, resting upon the Head of One who Rules a vast
Kingdom. Reigning over subjects born and raised by YOUR
Spirit. Set my feet upon that path of Righteousness, that
will bring forth an increase, which is pleasing to YOU. Hear
my Praises and Bless YOUR servant in the labor of
fruitfullness, To YOU who sits on heaven's Throne, belongs all
Glory, Honor and
Power, Amen
"LIFEtime
Warranty!" Galatians 6:15-16 (Amplified Bible)For neither is circumcision [now] of any importance, nor uncircumcision, but [only] a new creation [the result of a new birth and a new nature in Christ Jesus, the Messiah]. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule [who discipline themselves and regulate their lives by this principle], even upon the [true] Israel of God! Paul was not favored of God solely because of his physical Obedience to the Law of Moses concerning circumcision, but rather because Paul was submissive to the 'cutting away' of those fleshly things which once hindered his Submission to God's Spirit.Those outward marks of beatings and stonings, were the result of oppression and persecution from those who resisted the Gospel. Visible upon a man who had been broken and bruised by fists and whips, none of which compared to the inward mark of God's Spirit that sealed his heart with Life, that he might become a formidable witness of Christ Jesus' suffering and physical death. Many are broken and shattered, bearing invisible marks upon their heart, of which only Christ can heal. For it is written, that Jesus bore those stripes and wounds of mankind's iniquity and transgression, was Obedient to death on Calvary's cross, that in HIS Resurrection, the POWER of Holy Spirit would be able to deliver a complete Restoration. When one's heart and soul has been purchased by the Precious Blood of Christ Jesus, God's Warranty is in effect, and is as Paul says, PROOF that one's beaten and bruised life can be transformed and made NEW again by the Creator. Christ Jesus paid a steep price for us, offering HIS own body, that for all who accept HIM as Savior and Lord, are issued a Covenant Seal which includes a LIFEtime Warranty, redeemable upon one's death to self and where the circumcision of all things 'flesh' are cut from our heart. O'Lord, what Joy and Peace fills my soul,
where hurt and pain once reigned. Born of flesh to die,
born of YOUR Spirit to LIVE. My heart is sealed by the
burning of YOUR Holy Fire, transforming the ashes of
my flesh into a beautiful LIFE being lived as a Witness
to YOUR Glory and Honor. My lips will forever speak of
YOUR Truth, for YOU have ransomed my soul. No other name
is as Precious, as the Name of Jesus,
Amen
"Return Policy!" Luke 8:39 (Amplified Bible)but [Jesus] sent him away, saying, Return to your home, and recount [the story] of how many and great things God has done for you. And [the man] departed, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him. Miracles of healing and deliverance, along with other signs and wonders, were witnessed by many who followed Jesus as HE traveled conducting Kingdom business throughout the land. I do not find a 'disclaimer', tagged at the end of this scripture. Something on the lines of, 'Do not try this at home' or 'Certain restrictions apply'. Yet I do read comments like, 'Under proper supervision' and 'Results may vary', all depending upon careful and otherwise strict adherence to the 'Great Commission' which Christ Jesus defined in great detail, as HE placed the Kingdom's seal of Holy Spirit upon those whom HE sends forth to Proclaim the Gospel. What I do find in this scripture, and many others as well which are recorded in God's WORD by eyewitnesses, is that Jesus continued to heal, deliver and even raise men from the dead. HE even commanded those who claim to be HIS Disciples then and now, to 'Do the WORKs that you have seen ME do', having Authority and Power to both duplicate these miracles and Proclaim the Good News that the Kingdom of God exists now within the hearts of all who Believe and journey in Faith until HE returns. To many this 'Return Policy', is not only a stumbling block, but also a 'Batteries not included' kind of excuse that causes contention and even rejection, towards those who have read the 'manual' and have followed in strict adherence to the WORDs of Christ Jesus, having been Obedient to 'Read and Follow' HIS instructions. As it stands today, a 'Recall' is in the WORKs. Resounding Proclaimations on the lips of HIS servants throughout the earth, that the heavens will soon part, and coming forth with a 'Shout', will our Savior and King return. Then upon 'setting all things in order and under HIS dominion', shall many who are 'dead in Christ' be raised and those who are 'alive in Christ' see the Son of Glory 'Redeem' HIS Bride in the sight of those who choose to ignore HIS 'disclaimer'. O'Lord, there is nothing to compare to YOUR
Power, and with none will YOU share YOUR Glory. By the
WORDs of my mouth will those in the city hear the great things
YOU have done. Having their eyes opened to see, their
ears opened to hear, that YOU require Obedience,
living daily by Faith in YOU alone. Life within
YOUR Kingdom exceeds anything my mind can comprehend, yet YOU
supply my need according to YOUR Glorious Riches in Christ
Jesus, whom I will follow all my days. One day of Praises in
YOUR court is worth more than thousands elsewhere,
Amen
"Field
Trip!" Luke 6:1 (Amplified Bible)ONE SABBATH while Jesus was passing through the fields of standing grain, it occurred that His disciples picked some of the spikes and ate [of the grain], rubbing it out in their hands. Of all the places that Jesus could have led HIS disciples through, it was a field which had been prepared and planted, producing a harvest that provided nourishment for their hunger. I can't tell how many times the Lord has led me through a place like that in my life. Many times it has been on a day that I was in great need, and HE was there with me, teaching me about Provision that so often contradicts the expected. Of those who looked from a distance, may not see the 'hunger' of another person, yet the Lord knows all things, and is able to provide abundantly from HIS storehouse a feast of Kingly proportion. There is none other that I would want to walk with on any given day, One who cares and provides for my need in a way that quite often defies the boundaries and limits of what is legal and what is necessary. Society may have it's obligations social graces, yet many times they are in direct conflict with the Grace of God and the literal fulfillment of HIS Provision. My jouney each day with Christ is much more than a 'Field Trip', so much deeper than a frolicking walk through a plentiful field of ripening grain, but a prepared path of Righteousness and Truth. A dedicated walk of Faith and Obedience, led by the King of kings, by Whom all of mankind will stand before and be judged. The Harvest which HIS Hands will reap, are those precious souls of men who have followed HIM on a journey that bears eternal fruit of Praise. For which many will regret for having refused to accept the Lord's invitation, freely partaking of HIS goodness and Mercy, because their hearts were misguided by unbelief and the Seed of their Inheritance was stolen. O'Lord, the Seed of YOUR WORD brings forth
an abundant Harvest of Life. Though the fields are ripe with
Promise, many will choose to go hungry. Thanksgiving and
Praise resound from my lips, for the bread YOUR hands provide,
a feast fit for kings. A field of Life awaits, prepared in
Love by YOUR Hands of Grace. Feeding many whose souls have
hungered for Peace in the midst of turmoil. YOU have planted
me for a purpose, to grow mature and produce fruit
abundantly that brings Honor and
Glory to YOUR Name,
Amen
"Straight
UP!" Acts 9:10-12 (Amplified Bible)Now there was in Damascus a disciple named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, Ananias. And he answered, Here am I, Lord. And the Lord said to him, Get up and go to the street called Straight and ask at the house of Judas for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying [there]. And he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias enter and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight. Luke records in detail, Saul and his Life changing encounter with Christ, and yet many today would question the authenticity of such a miraculous event. Certainly, the Lord moves in ways that far exceed my understanding, for it is found in HIS WORD, that HIS Thoughts and Ways are above mine, and I must seek to know and live according to them. To question how the Lord gains an audience with our heart, may well be a point for another day, but nonetheless, it is here that we see some things about HIS Ways and Thoughts. Although not every Believer has a Testimony quite the equal to that of Paul the Apostle, yet the same outcome bears a Witness that none should question, for they too neither fully comprehend the Ways and Thoughts of God, as HE is Sovereign, and has no need to confer with another. What transpires before and after the encounter, is certainly the Lord's decision, as that too is far beyond man's understanding and not open for discussion or challenge. In the 1st place, it was 'rules and rulers', that placed Saul in the position of being 'blinded', although that is a representation of the heart condition, much like the image portrayed of baptism. What can not be seen by the human eye, can only be seen by the same Spirit of God that opens the eyes, ears and hearts of sinful men to Truth. Lest any should be found guilty of diminishing the Purification and Sanctification of both the Blood of Christ Jesus and the Divine counsel of Holy Spirit as was Saul, there would be no need to further seek a knowing of the Thoughts and Ways of the Lord for obtaining one's Freedom in the very sight of a Holy and Righteous God. O'Lord, open the eyes and ears of my heart
to YOUR Thoughts and Ways which lead me to
know YOUR Heart. Counsel me through the revealing of YOUR WORD
by Holy Spirit, that in my heart, will I know YOUR Will.
Move me each day along the pathway called Straight, that I
might please YOU. Purify me thoroughly with YOUR Holy Fire,
and present YOUR servant blameless to the Glory and Honor of
YOUR Son, Christ Jesus, my Savior and King,
Amen
"That Tongue of
FIRE!" James 3:8-10 But the human tongue can be tamed by no man. It is a restless (undisciplined, irreconcilable) evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse men who were made in God's likeness! Out of the same mouth come forth blessing and cursing. These things, my brethren, ought not to be so.
In these verses, James reminds us we are all created in the likeness and image of God. Our loving heavenly Father, wants every Believer in Christ to speak with love towards others. According to God's WORD in Psalms 18:21(a); "The tongue has the power of life and death," So POWERFUL is the tongue, it is recorded by Luke in Acts 2:3, that during Pentecost, Holy Spirit came upon the disciples who were gathered together in one place, as tongues of fire. The Lord RESERVED that FLAMING TONGUE part strictly for Believers anointed by Holy Spirit, to proclaim the Good News and to speak with Divine Authority on HIS behalf throughout the earth. Every Believer in Christ must obey God's teaching on controlling the tongue which is to be used to preach the everlasting Gospel with Power and Authority given by Holy Spirit! Father, teach me YOUR WORDS through
Holy Spirit, that from my heart, will I SPEAK of YOUR
LOVE. My deepest desire is to Honor YOU, O' Lord, with my
repetitious speaking of YOUR TRUTH to All. Tame my tongue, use
it to bear good fruit, telling others of Christ, and YOUR
everlasting Love,
Amen
"Redemption, Full and
Free!" 1 John 1:7 But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations]. Relationships begin with the desire to know another person, sometimes reaching deeply into those areas of our soul that needs comfort and peace in troublesome times. The Apostle John, experienced those times in his own life, just as Believers in Christ do today. Knowing that Christ Jesus shed HIS Precious Blood at the cross on Calvary over 2000 years ago, I must willingly accept the conditions and requirements of God's Covenant established by HIS atoning sacrifice. My heart, according to God's WORD, has transgressed against God, I was 'Caught RedHanded' by the Eternal Truth of HIS WORD, and without any HOPE of Redemption, I would be judged a criminal. Yet, in HIS Abundant Love for my soul, God supplied the 'Ransom' which acquits me from every charge brought against me, Redemption Full and Free. Through HIS Spirit, a relationship with Christ is built and grows within me, forming a bond of unity that must expand into my relationships with other Believers who also desire 'True and Unbroken' fellowship. The manifestation of those Spiritual Gifts of Holy Spirit, represent the Will of God in my life, developing a Testimony that concurs with HIS Grace and Mercy.
O'Lord, I give
YOU thanks and praise, my lips shout YOUR Name all the day
long. My soul has found Refuge in YOU, that Rock so steadfast
and True. I gained fellowship through YOUR Spirit, Everlasting
Hope and Peace now fill my heart today. Fellowship with me
through YOUR Son, for it is in HIM alone, that I am to walk
and live. O'Lord, guide me into greater Unity with YOU,
Amen
"Revealing Heaven's
Wisdom!" 1 Corinthians 2:10-13 Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man's scrutiny]. For what person perceives (knows and understands) what passes through a man's thoughts except the man's own spirit within him? Just so no one discerns (comes to know and comprehend) the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have not received the spirit [that belongs to] the world, but the [Holy] Spirit Who is from God, [given to us] that we might realize and comprehend and appreciate the gifts [of divine favor and blessing so freely and lavishly] bestowed on us by God. And we are setting these truths forth in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the [Holy] Spirit, combining and interpreting spiritual truths with spiritual language [to those who possess the Holy Spirit]. Paul writes of the hidden and unknowable things of God, those things which Holy Spirit reveals only to those who submit to HIS Divine Counsel. Favored as HIS children, Believers receive an immeasureable portion, a rich Inheritance of Truth and Wisdom. These revealed thoughts of God's heart, are contrary to those of the world, and many men and women have found God's WORD to be Strength in times of turmoil. A Source of Comfort in times of grief, and Purpose for their lives when doubt and fear could so easily prevail. The foolish things of God, confound the understanding and wisdom of man, yet it is Wisdom that HE gives to any who will Joyfully accept HIS Son as Savior and Lord, that overcomes the foolish philosphies of this world. Truthfully, there are not enough human words that can express the depth of God's Love, nor can any man's heart even begin to undertand HIS WORD, unless Holy Spirit reveals and interprets them in a language that transforms our heart. Giving Believers spiritual ears to hear the Truth from the very throne of heaven.
O'Lord, pour out YOUR Spirit
in this hour, upon my heart for I desire to know YOUR
Thoughts and Ways. Bless and Favor those who choose YOUR Son
and the Life that HE gives. YOUR Spirit abides where YOUR
Son reigns as Savior, Lord and King. Teach me to walk in YOUR
Love, and be a witness of YOUR Power. YOUR WORD is the Light
that leads me to that Secret Place where I find YOU
waiting to share YOUR wealth of
Wisdom, Amen
"Spiritual Appreciation!" 1 Corinthians 2:14 (Amplified Bible)But the natural, nonspiritual man does not accept or welcome or admit into his heart the gifts and teachings and revelations of the Spirit of God, for they are folly (meaningless nonsense) to him; and he is incapable of knowing them [of progressively recognizing, understanding, and becoming better acquainted with them] because they are spiritually discerned and estimated and appreciated. Again as I read Paul's first letter to the Corinthian Believers, something leaps off these pages of God's WORD, and burns within my spirit with such a fervor, that I know must be shared. Paul addresses the apparent division that has arisen, between those who continued to hold firmly to the philosophies taught by man and the Divine Revelation that is given by God's Spirit of Christ. A forewarning of the need for Believers to depend completely upon Holy Spirit for guidance as opposed to the vain and unproductive teachings that eventually would lead many to err from the pathway of Truth. Leaving behind those fruitless and meaningless discussions which attempt to devalue the WORK of Redemption accomplished by Christ Jesus upon Calvary's Cross, is the core and foundation of Paul's letter. The day and hour in which we now live, cries out for Sons and Daughters of HIS Kingdom, to come forth and reveal the Heart and Will of the Father. Destroying every wicked doctrine and teaching of the enemy, and raising the inerrant and infalliable WORD of God as the standard and mark by which men must live. For Christ Jesus certainly spoke many times of this day and hour, where HIS Spirit which rested upon the Prophet Elijah, would manifest in the hearts of Believers. Purposed by Divine Assigment, granted impunitive POWER and dispatched with Authority, to Decree and Declare the Day of Salvation is now. The Kingdom of God and of HIS Son, Christ Jesus, will prevail against every enemy, and as another day dawns, the Revelation of Righteousness and Truth, will bring Triumph for many Believers who will fearlessly and forcefully Advance the Gospel.
O'Lord, reign from above YOUR
Spirit of Fire, destroying every altar and idol of false
teaching. Dispatch YOUR Warriors to every corner of the earth,
that the Good News be Proclaimed in Power. Teach me more of
YOUR Truth, for Revelation sears my heart with YOUR mark of
ownership. YOUR Kingdom is come and YOUR Will is being done,
by YOUR Faithful Sons and Daughters throughout every nation,
every tribe and tongue. YOUR Name is to be Exalted and
Glorified above every other name,
Amen
"Deep
Groanings!" 2 Corinthians 5:4 (Amplified Bible)For while we are still in this tent, we groan under the burden and sigh deeply (weighed down, depressed, oppressed)--not that we want to put off the body (the clothing of the spirit), but rather that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal (our dying body) may be swallowed up by life [after the resurrection]. Paul's WORDs express a yearning of which I am fully convinced every Believer at various times, has experienced in their own heart, a 'Deep Groaning' within our spirit that 'cries out' from the depths of our soul. A cry that speaks of our desire to be fully 'clothed', with that 'spiritual raiment' which is Promised to us, by our election to surrender our whole being to Christ.I am also fully convinced that Paul was refering to the 'Resurrection' in a way that reaches far beyond the empty tomb. As I Declare 'death' to my old man, the same Power of God who raised Christ from death, Holy Spirit 'resurrects' me to live the New Life that reflects Victory by providing immortality for my soul. God's WORD also states that Jesus bore the suffering of the Cross with Joy, for the Glory that was set before HIM. HE was able to see me and every other Believer, 'Resurrected' and fully clothed in HIS Glory, seated with HIM in the heavenly realm. All of Creation groans for the Sons of God to be revealed, the old man having been crucified and as each Believer is Resurrected to live a New Life in Christ Jesus, each one becoming a revealing Testimony of God's Power to Reign Eternally over death and every suffering. Ezekiel 21:6-7 (Amplified Bible) "Therefore groan, son of man! Groan before them with broken heart and bitter grief. And when they ask you, 'Why are you groaning?' you shall say, 'Because of the news that is coming. Every heart will melt and every hand go limp; every spirit will become faint and every knee become as weak as water.' It is coming! It will surely take place, declares the Sovereign LORD." The groanings and sorrows of this world last only for the night, for the Joy of the Lord comes in the morning for those who have endured both hardships and death, to be Resurrected and United with HIM in Glory for Eternity. Of HIS Kingdom there is no end. O'Lord, YOUR Resurrection provides a sure HOPE for me, Life filled with Power and Purpose. YOU transformed my heart which was once dead, with a new heart that is alive and full of YOUR Love. Guide me by YOUR Spirit each day as I in the Joy and Peace of YOUR Saving Grace. How Majestic is YOUR Holy Name, I will Bless YOU with the Praises of my lips forever, Amen |
