The Agape Letters Ministry - July 2009 - 'A Warrior's Daily Journal' Devotionals

Friday July 31, 2009 (10 Av 5769)

"Resurrection Living!"

Romans 14:7-9 (Amplified Bible)

None of us lives to himself [but to the Lord], and none of us dies to himself [but to the Lord, for] If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or we die, we belong to the Lord. For Christ died and lived again for this very purpose, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.

Believers in Christ have repeated these verses of scripture many times and for many centuries since being written to the Roman believers by Paul, the Apostle and Servant of Jesus Christ.

WORDs inspired by Holy Spirit to bear unmistakable PROOF of Christ' ownership of those who believe of HIS death and ressurection from the grave and of death.

For me to live IS Christ, FOREVER, BUT without HIM I(we) are dead, both physically and spiritually without having received HIS promise of salvation.

We must accept HIS Witness, Holy Spirit, believing in Christ alone and of HIS resurrection, with inspiration and hope for eternal life.

O'LORD, YOU conquered death for me, and now it nor the grave holds any POWER over me. LIFE in and through YOU are given to all who will accept and believe that YOU were resurrected by Holy Spirit. Living in me as PROOF, that YOU died to set the captive free. For eternity will I Praise and Worship, Exalting YOUR Name above every name, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday July 28, 2009 (7 Av 5769)

"Zealous for Righteousness!"

Romans 10:1-4 (Amplified Bible)

   BRETHREN, [with all] my heart's desire and goodwill for [Israel], I long and pray to God that they may be saved. I bear them witness that they have a [certain] zeal and enthusiasm for God, but it is not enlightened and according to [correct and vital] knowledge. For being ignorant of the righteousness that God ascribes [which makes one acceptable to Him in word, thought, and deed] and seeking to establish a righteousness (a means of salvation) of their own, they did not obey or submit themselves to God's righteousness. For Christ is the end of the Law [the limit at which it ceases to be, for the Law leads up to Him Who is the fulfillment of its types, and in Him the purpose which it was designed to accomplish is fulfilled. That is, the purpose of the Law is fulfilled in Him] as the means of righteousness (right relationship to God) for everyone who trusts in and adheres to and relies on Him.

    Paul made a convincing argument for the Gospel of Christ, that anyone who is seeking answers concerning God's order for HIS Creation, must do so through Christ.Life that is meaningful and full of purpose requires submission to God's Spirit.

    As seen in the 1st century, confusion caused by man seeking other paths to righteousness, today's Believers in Christ must stay on the course which led us to Christ.

     Wavering neither right nor left in his journey, Paul admonishes us to continue steadfast in the same manner.

     The equilibrium of our inner ear, is just one more testimony to the greatness of Jehovah God, keeping us walking upright and in a straight line.

     Therefore, as Believers we must keep our spiritual equilibrium in check through Holy Spirit's guidance, in step with Christ as HE keeps us walking on the straight and narrow Pathway of Righteouness, leading us into greater understanding of Christ and an increased knowledge of HIS Order!

    O'LORD, YOU ordained every part of creation, for YOUR good pleasure. As I also desire for others to know YOU, believing in Christ Jesus as Lord and Savior. Set my course and align my heart through Holy Spirit, that I will not waiver, neither left nor right. Direct my footsteps to seek those lost and wayward, traveling along a path that leads only to death. Life in YOUR Presence is a Promise that is fulfilled by YOUR Eternal WORD, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Monday July 27, 2009 (6 Av 5769)

"Spiritually Speaking!"

1 Corinthians 2: 14-16 (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. But the spiritual man tries all things [he examines, investigates, inquires into, questions, and discerns all things], yet is himself to be put on trial and judged by no one [he can read the meaning of everything, but no one can properly discern or appraise or get an insight into him]. For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart.

    In today's society, knowledge is confused with wisdom, just as scripture tells us was prevalent in Paul's day and in the early church shortly after Christ' resurrection and ascension to the right hand of God.

     As the WORD of God plainly states, the reptitious speech of those who are considered knowledgeable of things undiscerned through Holy Spirit is decisively a proclamation of ignorance.

     What many have considered knowledge spoken as truth comes from carnal reasoning and not from the Spirit of God. Yet without an argument, we would agree that these lies come from the prince of lies, and we must refrain from repeating them.

     Only the Believers in Christ, having the mind of Christ have the ability given by Holy Spirit to discern that those words which are in ignorance repeated, are in direct opposition to the TRUTH and the WORD of God.

     May every WORD we speak concerning Christ and the Kingdom of God, be grounded spiritually and in order with the revelation of Truth and Righteousness we have received from God's Spirit.

    O'LORD, use my voice to speak of YOUR Truth and Righteousness. Of these things have I understood, being revealed as wisdom by YOUR Holy Spirit. May I never trust in any other, than the King of Kings, who will judge every man according to YOUR WORD. Shouts of Praise to HIM who sits on HIS Glorious throne forever, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Friday July 24, 2009 (3 Av 5769)

"Awakened to Grace!"

John 12:40-41 (Amplified Bible)

   He has blinded their eyes and hardened and benumbed their [callous, degenerated] hearts
[He has made their minds dull],
to keep them from seeing with their eyes
and understanding with their hearts and minds
and repenting and turning to Me to heal them.
Isaiah said this because he saw His glory and spoke of Him.

    These WORDs of the Lord received by the Prophet Isaiah are recited by John the Apostle, and strike a resounding chord that must be heard even today 2000 years after being written.

     Christ Jesus is God's Glory which came to the earth which HE created, with the soul purpose of Proclaiming the Kingdom of God.

     In the following verses, John records that many of those who listened to Christ, believed HIM to be the fulfillment of God's Prophetic WORD, yet these men refused to confess their Faith in HIM.

     For fear of losing social grace, they chose to deny God's Grace. Seeing and hearing of God's Promise of a Savior, being fully Proclaimed to a generation that seeks Hope, yet it is in their hearts that they refuse to confess HIM as Lord.

     As Christ commanded Believers to pray for the Power of God's Grace, Holy Spirit, to open the eyes and ears of all, that their hearts be softened and receive understanding of HIS TRUTH.

     I too must now choose to be Obedient to HIS Will, that in Proclaiming HIM as Resurrected Savior, HE becomes Lord of Grace in their lives, a far more rewarding choice than anything society has ever had or ever will have to offer.

    O'LORD, YOU hear my faintest cry, my plea that is pure and without fear. That many will turn to YOU in this hour, knowing YOUR Grace affords Life everlasting. Remove the blinding scales of darkness, and soften the hardest heart to YOUR WORD. For YOUR Grace is Freely given, to all who in Faith choose to listen. YOUR Will is being accomplished, Through the Powerful WORK of YOUR Spirit of Grace. Come quickly and receive YOUR Bride, Faithful and True, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Thursday July 23, 2009 (2 Av 5769)

"Powerful Proof!"

2 Corinthians 13:3-5 (Amplified Bible)

   Since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you. For to be sure, he was crucified in weakness, yet he lives by God's power. Likewise, we are weak in him, yet by God's power we will live with him to serve you. Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?

    When Believers in Christ die to themselves, believing in HIS resurrection by the Power of God, they become subjects of the Kingdom of God!

     Unless a believer denies the sinful nature of controlling our own destiny, and they allow Holy Spirit to quide them into a greater understanding of God's WORD, they will fail the test of servanthood.

     Having faith that Jesus is the Son of God, and that HE is in you, being overcomers and witnesses of HIS Power, is Proof that the servant honors his Lord and Savior.

     We as Believers in Christ, possess the Power of God in every area of our lives through Holy Spirit, who indwells and empowers us!

     The test of faith, NEVER COMPROMISING, in thought, word or deed!

    O'LORD, I ask for a double portion of YOUR Spirit of Power and Wisdom, given and revealed as I serve YOU alone. I confess my weakness, and Proclaim YOUR strength, unto a world of lost and dying people who are without Hope. May Christ, who lives within me be Glorified, HIM alone receiving all the Praise and Glory, as HE is my Lord of Lords, and my King of Kings, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday July 22, 2009 (1 Av 5769)

"Reflection of LOVE!"

Colossians 3:12-14 (Amplified Bible)

   Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones
(His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and
holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has
a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness
[which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].

    Each day as Believers in Christ, we must be Obedient to ask our LORD for forgiveness for ourselves, yet we may find it a hard thing to forgive others who have mistreated or persecuted us. Paul realized this early in his ministry, having confessed and repented
of his earlier persecution of Believers before he was converted, and wrote these Inspired WORDs as a guide for us.

     Truly believing that God has forgiven us of our sin and has restored us in fellowship with HIM, we are commanded as well to forgive others thereby being Obedient to HIS desire that we reconcile our fellowship with one another. Failing or refusing to forgive others, as Paul stated, both inhibits our claim to God's precious promise of Forgiveness and nullifies our testimony of Obedience to God's Eternal WORD.

     We are greatly blessed by being Obedient to forgive others, and truly become the ambassadors who represent God's love to them, binding our relationship with the Unity that HE desires. Moreover, we are marked by HIS Spirit with a heart filled with
an Overflow of LOVE, boundless and free.

     None of this is possible unless we are spiritually clothed with God's Spirit. Completely regenerated in our hearts by the transforming POWER that resurrected Christ Jesus. Others will know that we belong to HIM, by our having this same Love which Paul speaks of, for we now are a reflection of HIS Love for them throughout the earth.

    O'LORD, I seek to know more of YOU and YOUR Great Love, less of me that I be pleasing and acceptable to YOU. Overflowing with compassion to those who suffer deeply, for YOU have forgiven me of much, I must strive also to follow YOUR example and in LOVE forgive others. Manifest YOUR POWER and Purify me as an ambassador, as each day I endure whatever comes. Bind my heart to YOU by YOUR Spirit of Grace, that I will boldly share YOUR Gospel of Grace with others For YOU alone are my Redeemer and Rock, merciful and tender are YOUR Ways, Hallelujah and Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday July 21, 2009 (29 Tamuz 5769)

"Perfect Remedy!"

2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)

    But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!

     Much like Paul, many of us will agree that we have cried out to the Lord, pleading that HE remove something or someone that is a hindrance or is troubling. The Lord's response to Paul, reminds us that in any and all situations, it is only HIS Strength and Power that is sufficient. Perfect, fulfilled and completed within our lives, when we submit and allow HIM to WORK within us each day.

     In some way, all Believers in Christ can identify with Paul's anquish, where what we face may not be as severe as the beatings, hardships or sufferings as Paul mentions, we still must completely rely upons God's Grace (favor and loving-kindness and mercy) just as he did.

God is Sovereign is HIS Ways, always, ALL-WAYS!

     Whatever Paul's 'thorn' was, it seems that he wanted us to know more about the Strength and Power of Christ, than the specifics of his torment. The 'Perfect Remedy' which only God provides, an understanding of HIS Grace must be absorbed into our spirit, similiar to the physical nourishment that our body needs, being absorbed into our blood and then transported throughout our body to strengthen and sustain us.

     LIFE is in the BLOOD, the shed Blood of Christ, a transfusion completely transforming Believers from weaklings into Mighty and Valiant Warriors, just as God intended. Holy Spirit is God's 'Agent of Delivery', present continually within the hearts of Believers, administering HIS Comforting Grace to HIS children, whenever and whatever they are suffering.

      Confessing our frailities and weaknesses to a Righteous God, strips away our flesh, for that is the Purpose for which our voices sing Praise. Repentence turns our hearts from those things detestable to a Holy God, for that is where our spirit is then ushered into HIS Holy Presence, where HE alone is Worshiped, Forever.

     O'Lord, kindle YOUR Holy Fire within my heart, burn within me YOUR Flame of Righteousness. No longer bound by chains of bondage I Rejoice in Freedom, cleansed by YOUR Precious Blood, redeeming my soul. Shackled no more to the aches and pains of death, I have been released to Live each day and Proclaim Your WORD. Garments of Praise adorn YOUR children, Declaring YOUR Name is Mighty indeed. Worthy O'Lord are YOU of my Worship, for YOUR Grace is sufficient for my every need. I Shout Praises to YOU my Lord, Faithful and True. On that Glorious day will every knee bow before YOU and every tongue confess, YOU are LORD of heaven and earth, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Monday July 20, 2009 (28 Tamuz 5769)

"Glorious Expansion!"

Hebrews 10:22 (Amplified Bible)

    Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty (evil) conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water.

     The writer of Hebrews provides a description of what Believers see upon entering into the Holiest of Holies, as pure and undefiled vessels, cleansed by Holy Spirit for Obedient service in the very Presence of God. Where before, only the High Priest was allowed access to this sacred place, now through the atoning sacrifice of Christ Jesus, Believers are granted entrance to stand before the Mercy Seat, now covered with the Precious Blood of the Lamb.

     Peter spoke so boldly of God's acceptance of the Gentile believers, having received the Gift and outpouring of Holy Spirit upon them.

      Acts 15:9 (Amplified Bible) And He made no difference between us and them, but cleansed their hearts by faith (by a strong and welcome conviction that Jesus is the Messiah, through
Whom we obtain eternal salvation in the kingdom of God).

     Written in the following verses, Paul, Barnabus and James boldly Declare many things which God desires to accomplish through the WORK of HIS Spirit upon those who Believe and place their unwavering Faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. My heart rejoices knowing that these men witnessed such miraculous manifestations in the transformation of the hearts and minds of those who received Holy Spirit, and were boldly declaring God's Provision of Eternal admittance into HIS Holy Presence.

     This same event is happening throughout the world today, as men and women of every nation are being renewed and restored in fellowship through Christ Jesus, and are being presented as purified vessels, prepared for service in the Kingdom of God.

     God's WORD is the foundation upon which the church is built, divinely guided by Holy Spirit in a Kingdom expansion project, bringing lost souls from desparation and hopelessness into the Majestic and Royal chambers of our Lord and King.

     O'Lord, YOU provided a Way into YOUR Holy Presence, through the atoning sacrifice of Christ YOUR Son. Every soul is precious in YOUR sight, and must hear YOUR WORDs of Life and Victory. Prepare YOUR servants for the harvest is near, a River of Hope flows freely from YOUR Throne. YOUR Cup of Living Water soothes my parched lips, loosens my tongue to speak YOUR Truth in Love. All Glory and Honor to YOU, my Lord, YOU come near and dwell deep within our hearts, that we might know YOU, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Friday July 17, 2009 (25 Tamuz 5769)

"Final Exposure!"

Romans 8:22-27 (Amplified Bible)

    We know that the whole creation [of irrational creatures] has been moaning together in the pains of labor until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves too, who have and enjoy the firstfruits of the [Holy] Spirit [a foretaste of the blissful things to come] groan inwardly as we wait for the redemption of our bodies [from sensuality and the grave, which will reveal] our adoption (our manifestation as God's sons). For in [this] hope we were saved. But hope [the object of] which is seen is not hope. For how can one hope for what he already sees? But if we hope for what is still unseen by us, we wait for it with patience and composure. So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance. And He Who searches the hearts of men knows what is in the mind of the [Holy] Spirit [what His intent is], because the Spirit intercedes and pleads [before God] in behalf of the saints according to and in harmony with God's will.

     This Hope that Believers have so longed for, is the quickly soon approaching 'Final Exposure' of Christ Jesus and those whom HE calls Faithful, bringing forth the long awaited fulfillment of God's WORD. The appointed manifestation within the earth, of the Sons and Daughters of Righteousness, those FirstFruits of a harvest which reveals the Fullness of Christ' Glory.

      Paul conveys to his readers, the intent of God's Spirit, which is to completely and totally inhabit the hearts of men and women who earnestly desire to experience fellowship with Christ, as HIS Kingdom penetrates every corner of the universe. Exposing the darkness that blinds and conceals this Truth, revealing with Boldness and Courage this Declaration of an impending judgement against God's enemy and all who willingly pursue evil continuously, without giving any thought to their Eternity.

     Although many people face the ills of life with little or no Hope, we are reminded that by having Faith in Christ, we are continuously being comforted by Holy Spirit, guiding us as we groan inwardly for those who are lost and have no knowledge of God's heart. It is with this Counsel of God, that we are given spiritual vision, able to see past the hurts and pains of this temporary existence, and know for certain the depths of God's Love and the eternal future that HE has prepared and awaits for HIS family to Joyfully enter into.

     O'LORD, through my Faith in Christ, have I been made Righteous in YOUR sight. Living daily by the Counsel and Direction of YOUR Holy Spirit. I must reveal the depths of YOUR heart, so that those around me who are hopeless, may see YOUR Light and be drawn into fellowship with YOU. Refresh my soul in this journey, as I lift my eyes to the heavens, Declaring with zeal YOUR Glory and Majesty. Quicken my heart with Passionate Fire, that burns away all that is not of YOU. To the Praise and Honor of YOUR Holy Name, awaken my heart to the sound of angels rejoicing over those who are being grafted into YOUR Kingdom family, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Thursday July 16, 2009 (24 Tamuz 5769)

"Expectation!"

2 Corinthians 10:15 (Amplified Bible)

    We do not boast therefore, beyond our proper limit, over other men's labors, but we have the hope and confident expectation that as your faith continues to grow, our field among you may be greatly enlarged, still within the limits of our commission,

     Paul expresses his HOPE to those who read his letter to the Corinthians, a Confident Expectation that as our FAITH continues to grow, others might hear the Good News of Salvation and Redemption of Christ Jesus. Previous mention of those who measured themselves by their own works, Paul identifies that the WORK he is Commisioned for, is the WORK of God's Spirit, transforming our thoughts and actions to align with those of Jesus.

     As Paul reminds us of the ongoing spiritual battle for the hearts, minds and ultimately the souls of men, he urges us to be prepared for every advance of the enemy. Holy Spirit had directed Paul and his traveling companions many times, averting them from dangers that threatened to overtake them. Declaring the Kingdom of God, and the TRUTH about the fulfillment of a Promised Savior, Paul dared not boast about other men's labors, but with Confidence assures us that the Gospel he preached Glorified only Christ Jesus.

     That must also be our testimony, that in all that we say and do, brings Glory and Honor to our LORD, our Savior WHO Redeemed us with HIS Precious LIFE giving Blood. It is this message that Paul desired others to know of, and what he urges us today to strive for more than our own recognition.

O'LORD, I will follow YOU all the days of my life, for I am alive in YOU to serve and Obey. Good News to the broken and downcast, TRUTH that comforts and guides me as I serve YOU. Flood my heart with YOUR WORDs of HOPE, that others may find YOU and be made whole. May YOU alone be Glorified in all that I am, for YOU are my Savior, my LORD and my KING. O'LORD, YOU Rule and Reign Forever, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday July 15, 2009 (23 Tamuz 5769)

"Confrontational Truth!"

Acts 22:14 (Amplified Bible)

    And he said, The God of our forefathers has destined and appointed you to come progressively to know His will [to perceive, to recognize more strongly and clearly, and to become better and more intimately acquainted with His will], and to see the Righteous One (Jesus Christ, the Messiah), and to hear a voice from His [own] mouth and a message from His [own] lips;

     Luke records Paul's confession, as he gave testimony to his encounter with the Lord, the evidence that he offered to those who were listening, cutting deeply into their hearts, it was this 'Confrontation' with the Truth that day which today qualifies as the Power of God, stirring hardened hearts to move violently against those who seek to Proclaim Christ as Savior and Lord.

     Not only did Paul confess to having heard the Lord's voice, he also Proclaimed he heard the Voice of Holy Spirit, speaking through the mouth of an Obedient Believer named Ananias,

      This latter boldness of Paul the Apostle encourages me, where standing before those who accused him of blasphemy, it is God's Spirit who gives strength and courage to defend one's Faith in Christ as the Redeeming WORK of God.

Acts 22:20 (Amplified Bible) And when the blood of Your witness (martyr) Stephen was shed, I also was personally standing by and consenting and approving and guarding the garments of those who slew him.

     Just As Stephen had been stoned for Proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah and God's Son, Paul was now also facing persecution, as he stood boldly and confidently speaking of God's Truth to those who by choice would not listen to God's Voice. Although many Believers are now Faithfully proclaiming God's WORD throughout the world, there will be many others who will despise and reject Christ, even persecute those who speak the Truth.

     Yet I see how God was Faithful many times to deliver Paul from the hands of those who sought to kill him, that this Message of Hope and Redemption through Christ Jesus would advance far beyond the ears of the Jews only, reaching also to the Gentile nations and the entire world.

     As the 'time of the Gentiles' draws nearer to it's fulfillment, it is the enduring Gospel of Christ that must be proclaimed to ears that are eager to hear and receive God's revelation of Truth, Salvation and Eternal Life through HIS Son, Christ Jesus.

     O'Lord, YOU strengthen those who stand and proclaim, YOUR Salvation in none other than Jesus as Lord and Savior. Boldness and courage are YOUR Spirit's gift, defeating the darkness that once prevailed. YOUR radiant Light brings Joy and Peace, to hearts once wrought with doubt and fear. Pour out the increased measure of Holy Spirit, that YOUR WORD will be proclaimed in Power. YOUR magnificent Glory will Forever shine through those who Love and Serve YOU Faithfully. To YOUR Holy Name will there be Praises forever, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday July 14, 2009 (22 Tamuz 5769)

"LIFE's Worth!"

2 Corinthians 7:2 (Amplified Bible)

    Do open your hearts to us again [enlarge them to take us in]. We have wronged no one, we have betrayed or corrupted no one, we have cheated or taken advantage of no one.

     It is Paul who brings to our remembrance, of a time and place of decision, when we must either declare Christ as our Glorious and Risen King, or betray HIM as did Judas, choosing earthly gain over eternal riches and wealth.

      Jesus taught HIS disciples then, and God's Spirit instructs us now, that one should wisely choose to receive an inheritance which leads to Life, instead of choosing one that leads to death. A decision to lose one's life for the sake of Christ and HIS Kingdom as opposed to seeking profit and then suffering anquish and death, a choice with devastating results like that of Ananias and his wife Sapphira.  Having so foolishly desired to profit from what they attempted to portray as an offering of sacrificial giving.

       We are also reminded by Luke in Acts chapter 8, when Simon sought as well, to gain honor for himself by deceitfully gaining God's gift of Power through Holy Spirit. It is Peter who rebukes Simon, both for his foolish request and for his reproach against the Authority of God's Spirit.

       Even today we are witnesses of this same spirit of deceitfullness and greed, often from those who claim to be servants and ministers of the Gospel of Christ. Shamefully they have misled many to seek profit from what appears to be a sacrifice. This is a stench in the nostrils of God, and even though this treachery continues today, it is my hearts desire that my life be a testimony which pleases God instead of infuriating HIM.

      Spiritual discernment unveils every dark and hidden agenda, which seeks only to trap Believers and steal their rightful inheritance, destroying them and ultimately leads to death. Where every form of evil and wickedness is soon to follow in the shadows of those who choose to gain the whole world and lose their souls in the end. In Christ, there is no shadow, for HIS LIFE and ours as well, is worth more than 30 pieces of silver. Believers who choose wisely, inherit wealth unimaginable, LIFE that is worth a King's ransom.

     Opening our hearts to this Truth of God's WORD, Holy Spirit directs us to be both discerning and charitable. Giving Joyfully to the downtrodden and poor, a principle of Kingdom Living betrayed in the Life of Christ. The KING of both earth and heaven, awaits our decision to share abundantly the Gospel, for Christ longs to reap a harvest, a multitude of souls, purchased with HIS Precious Blood.

     O'Lord, what Joy floods my soul, as I open my heart to YOU. My life must betray YOU as the Way, the Truth and the LIFE, never betraying nor denying YOU before others. I submit all that I have to YOU. Refine me with YOUR Holy Fire, purge from within me all that is not of YOU. YOU ransomed my soul for a purpose, and my only desire is to do YOUR perfect Will which pleases YOU. My Thanks and Praise to YOU, be Forever Exalted and Glorified in the earth as YOU are in heaven. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Monday July 13, 2009 (21 Tamuz 5769)

"A Soldier's Revelation!"

Luke 23:46-47 (Amplified Bible)

     And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit! And with these words, He expired. Now the centurion, having seen what had taken place, recognized God and thanked and praised Him, and said, Indeed, without question, this Man was upright (just and innocent)!

     Just as the centurion witnessed the death of Christ Jesus upon Calvary's cross and declared that HE was innocent and unworthy of such a horrible death, where at some point in our lives, each one of us have also recognized HIM as being innocent, having paid with HIS life the penalty for our guilt and shame.

     No other person that was present at that fateful hour is recorded as saying anything so profound. A statement revealing such Truth, in the midst of a crowd that displayed two very opposing thoughts about the crucifixion of Jesus. One view from those who loved HIM as an earthly son and a brother, another from a viewpoint that HE was a heretic and a criminal, deserving of such a cruel death.

      How we view Christ and HIS death, is of monumental importance. We either confess HIM to be the Son of God, crucified as the only One who could redeem us from the penalty of our sins, presenting us as Righteous before a Holy God, or as one who will choose to deny that HE is Lord in the midst of tragedy, scoffing at those who recognize HIS innocence.

      Jesus had earlier declared that what Mary did by anointing HIM with precious perfume, would be remembered as a testimony to who HE is. Because she believed and loved Jesus, did she proclaim by her actions, that HE was the King of a Kingdom that endures forever. Yet, this statement by a common soldier, is often neglected, because a culture of thinking existed then as does now, which despises even the least acknowledement that Jesus was the Son of God, the Holy One, innocent and undefiled.

      Lest we become bold and courageous through the anointing of Holy Spirit, our words will soon be as overlooked as was those of the soldier. A shameful reproach that will grieve the heart of God, who in HIS great Love for us, gave HIS only Son to die in our place. Bearing Life where death once reigned over us and now offers us forgiveness and complete absolution for our transgression.

       As Believers in Christ, we must be Obedient to speak HIS WORDs of Life to those whose ears are deaf to the Truth. Praying for God's Spirit to direct us to those who are walking blindly toward their certain death, without so much as a whisper of what Christ has done for them at Calvary.

       Many of us have knelt at HIS pierced and blood stained feet, and have gazed up at HIS open arms of Love, it is now time that we stand to our feet and declare HIS Authority as King of our hearts, and proclaim with unfettered Joy that HE Lives in and through us by God's Spirit.

     O'Lord, YOU bore my guilt and shame, on a tree that day at Calvary. Knowing my sin separated me from YOUR Presence, I now declare YOU as my Savior and Lord. May those whose eyes and ears have for so long heard nothing of YOUR Grace, send me into their midst that I might Proclaim YOUR Love. As an heir and joint heir with Christ, will I boldly and courageously speak of YOUR Truth, WORDs that offer Life and Peace, to their souls, tormented and destined for destruction. I pray that many will respond, by claiming YOUR Promise of forgiveness and become Sons and Daughters in YOUR Kingdom. I will Thank YOU and Praise YOU all of my days, for this is a testimony to YOU and YOUR Mercy. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Friday July 10, 2009 (18 Tamuz 5769)

"A Multitude of Hungry Hearts!"

Mark 8:2-4 (Amplified Bible)

     I have pity and sympathy for the people and My heart goes out to them, for they have been with Me now three days and have nothing [left] to eat; And if I send them away to their homes hungry, they will be feeble through exhaustion and faint along the road; and some of them have come a long way. And His disciples replied to Him, How can anyone fill and satisfy [these people] with loaves of bread here in [this] desolate and uninhabited region?

     Mark writes of the multitude of people who followed Jesus out to the hillside, where HE taught Truths of the Kingdom of God. Here Christ teaches me of HIS Compassion for those who hunger and thirst, as HE looked upon the crowd, knowing that for many their hearts were as hungry for HIS WORDs of Life as were their bellies hungry for food.

      Christ used an illustration as HE taught HIS disciples, of when David entered into the temple and took the consecrated bread from the table and fed his hungry and weary men. As our High Priest, Christ Jesus came to this earth to provide us with the nourishing Bread and Living Water from heaven, soothing the hunger and thirst of our hearts.

       The comparison Jesus uses of the hunger that we have in our stomachs for food which will quickly perish, HE speaks of HIS desire that we as well go about each day sharing with others the spiritual food which satifies their hungry hearts, providing nourishment for their weary souls by filling them with HIS Everlasting Love.

       This knowledge of God's Love for all of mankind to be spiritually fed and clothed, is taught in another one of the parables which Jesus used. Urging us to look around and see those among us who are naked and poor, choosing to clothe them with HIS garments of Righteousness, rather than leaving them hopeless. Or of those who are bound and held captive as slaves to sin, choosing to release them through their hearing of the Good News of the Kingdom of God, thereby breaking those chains of bondage and guilt.

       One's passion for sharing the Gospel, must be fueled by God's Spirit, whereas Believers in Christ have received that consecrated Bread and Water of Life from the amply furnished Lord's Table. Going about the avenues and streets of our cities, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked and releasing the captives, whose hearts and minds hunger for Love and Freedom that is found in the Kingdom of God. Outlasting the soon perishing delicasies offered by the enemy in the kingdom of darkness that destroys both soul and body.

     O'Lord, my heart is filled with compassion for those whose hearts hunger and thirst. YOU are the Bread and Water of Life, that I must share with them. Feeding and clothing the destitute of soul, presenting them to YOU as a pleasing harvest in this hour. By YOUR Spirit strengthen me to stay the course, Proclaiming Life and Liberty in YOUR Name, the Name above all names. To YOU all my Praises belong, for it is from YOU that my heart is filled with purpose and sustained by YOUR Power. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Thursday July 9, 2009 (17 Tamuz 5769)

"From Barren to Fruitful!"

Galatians 5:21-23 (Amplified Bible)

     But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge].

     Every Believer in Christ looks to this scripture for direction as how their lives are to be a reflection of these Christ-like qualities. There may still be some areas in our lives that will require us to completely submit, yet it is in these WORDs that we find the true essence of living in the Peace, Joy and fullness of God's Spirit.

     My desire in this life must be to reflect these qualities. The very character and nature of Christ, exemplified in every aspect and situation, as I interact with others each day. It is God's desire that I radiate these qualities, the precious fruit of being born anew and totally consumed by Holy Spirit.

     This fruit which Paul writes about, came from his time spent listening to the Counsel of Holy Spirit, divine revelation from the very heart of God. I am inspired by Paul to portray that which embodies the fullness of Christ Jesus. Paul is passionate to share this with us as we mature in those areas which will be a testimony of one's desire to be a pleasing and acceptable witness of HIS Power. A total transformation by HIS Spirit, becoming a fully commmissioned and dispatched representative of Kingdom living here in the earth.

      One's heart may have once been stony ground, a barren wasteland, where nothing grew nor produced evidence that any fruit of God's Spirit resided there. The decision to relinquish ownership of our heart to the King of kings, completely strips away the callous and dry things, and replaces them with fertile and productive soil in which HIS WORD can then produce a harvest that brings Glory and Honor to the HIM, the Master of the Vineyard.

     O'Lord, strip away from me everything that hinders YOUR WORK within my life. I lay bare my heart, so that YOUR Spirit can cultivate and nourish what YOU have planted. Reign over me and flood my heart with YOUR Living Water. Shine through me the radiance of YOUR Glory, as I grow and mature in YOUR sight. Joyfully will I declare YOU as my Lord, to a lost and hopeless generation. May YOUR Glory radiate through my life, and draw others into fellowship with YOU through YOUR Son Christ Jesus. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday July 8, 2009 (16 Tamuz 5769)

"Visionary of Freedom"

1 Corinthians 2:5-7 (Amplified Bible)

     So that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men (human philosophy), but in the power of God. Yet when we are among the full-grown (spiritually mature Christians who are ripe in understanding), we do impart a [higher] wisdom (the knowledge of the divine plan previously hidden); but it is indeed not a wisdom of this present age or of this world nor of the leaders and rulers of this age, who are being brought to nothing and are doomed to pass away. 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].

     'It was there by Faith, I received my sight..', are lyrics to an old hymn that so many of us are familiar with, yet many still walk blindly after the leading of this world's wisdom. Failing to see, and most often falling for what seems right in our own eyes,  we soon realize that we have been deceived and the reward of foolishness ends only in destruction and misery, because God's WORD reveals HIS Wisdom which endures forever.

      Paul, before his conversion, had been at the pinnacle of his career, a high ranking official with far reaching authority and power. As a devout Pharisee, he knew the ins and outs of the religious order, and of the harsh penalties imposed upon those who challenged that order.

     Certainly Paul understood the Freedom that we as Believers have in Christ Jesus. From having experienced God's Mercy, he traveled to many distant lands to tell others of this Good News. God's Spirit completely changed Paul's vision of the present, by allowing him to have a vision of the Glory and Majesty of Christ Jesus, the Resurrected Lord. Holy Spirit counsels and reveals this Truth to us in the same way.

     Every plan that man has purposed in his heart will fail, only the plan God has for our present and future will prosper. It is God's desire that we become more like Christ, reflecting HIS character and nature as the Light of the world. As we grow to maturity, we become HIS future Glory that completely invades the darkness that is upon the earth. Bringing the Gospel of Victory to those who desparately long for a Hope and a Future.

     O'Lord, I seek YOU in all YOUR Ways, guide me by YOUR Spirit into all Truth. Freedom is given to any who will call upon the Name of Jesus. Use my voice to declare YOUR Grace and Mercy. Open the hearts and minds of those who are in bondage. Show them a vison of their future in YOUR Kingdom. By their Faith in YOU, will their eyes be opened to the Truth. Grant me Boldness and Courage to speak to others of YOUR Love that rescues and restores. Holy is YOUR Name, Majestic and Everlasting, transform us by YOUR Spirit into perfect examples of YOUR Son, in HIM will my Faith Prosper. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Monday July 6, 2009 (14 Tamuz 5769)

"A Door of Faith!"

Acts 14:27 (Amplified Bible)

     Arriving there, they gathered the church together and declared all that God had accomplished with them and how He had opened to the Gentiles a door of faith [in Jesus as the Messiah, through Whom we obtain salvation in the kingdom of God].

     There is a popular game show on television that many of us have watched, which offers it's contestants a choice of prizes, one visible and one that is hidden a curtain or door. If the contestant chooses wisely, they receive the best and most desired prize, choosing foolishly brings disappointment and embarrasment.

     As the early church grew, they continued teaching the message of Christ Jesus and the Kingdom of God throughout their cities and communities. An offering of a prize that for centuries had been hidden behind a veil, revealed only to the High Priest.

     At HIS death upon Calvary's cross, Christ removed that veil, opening a 'door' by which all men could have access to God. These early disciples understood what this meant, and were zealous in Proclaiming this message to any who would listen.

     This conviction to Declare God's Grace and Mercy, comes to us by Holy Spirit, having revealed the reward that awaits all who will chose wisely. Truth as it relates to the prize of Salvation and Eternal Life, was the subject of many conversations that Luke, Paul and other 1st century writers were compelled to record. This knowledge leads us to make the only wise choice, to accept Christ as the 'Door of Faith', that only through HIM will those who believe are able to enter into the Kingdom of God.

      As Believers in Christ, we are as those of the early church, been given revelation of that Glorious Prize which awaits all who will make a decision to accept the Gospel and partake of the reward. One that will never disappoint nor embarrass, where as Paul declared,

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the Gospel (good news) of Christ, for it is God's power working unto salvation [for deliverance from eternal death] to everyone who believes with a personal trust and a confident surrender and firm reliance, to the Jew first and also to the Greek, (Amplified Bible)

      Those who make the correct choice, are assured by Christ Jesus, that Eternity in HIS Presence is a prize of substantial reward. This 'Door of Faith' is now revealed as the only choice of Truth by which men can be saved and inherit the Kingdom of God.

     O'Lord, my strength and zeal comes from YOU alone, to daily proclaim Truth as the only prize to be chosen. YOUR Spirit gives Wisdom to make this choice, revealing the mystery that opens the eyes of our hearts to YOUR Grace. I am neither ashammed of the Gospel, for it is the Power to save, nor will I be disappointed in YOUR Promise of inheriting Eternal Life. YOUR WORDs will be upon my lips, declaring Christ Jesus as the Door that leads me into YOUR Glorious Presence. Only through HIM will any have access to fellowship with YOU. I will Exalt and Magnify YOUR Holy Name, for all Glory, Honor and Praise are YOURs, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday July 1, 2009 (9 Tamuz 5769)

"Sharing an Inheritance!"

Romans 8:16-18 (Amplified Bible)

   The Spirit Himself [thus] testifies together with our own spirit, [assuring us] that we are children of God. And if we are [His] children, then we are [His] heirs also: heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ [sharing His inheritance with Him]; only we must share His suffering if we are to share His glory. [But what of that?] For I consider that the sufferings of this present time (this present life) are not worth being compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us and in us and for us and conferred on us!

     Paul writes of the revelation he received from Holy Spirit, a glimpse of God's Glory manifesting in and through those who Believe that Christ Jesus is the Resurrected and Living Saviour and Lord. Detailing the Freedoms and Liberties given to those who are directed to live and walk each day by God's Spirit.

     Suffering was something Paul knew all too well, as he had some years earlier been ordered to locate and persecute those who Believed in Christ. Here in these WORDs, he now writes of the suffering and persecution he himself endures as a Believer. Yet, because of his having witnessed unspeakable things in the spiritual realm, Paul urges us to resist our selfish desires, and seek to fulfill those desires of God which will lead us to live our lives in Holiness and Righteousness.

       I find that Paul's dedication to the sharing of what Holy Spirit revealed, draws me to conclude that sharing both in God's Glory and HIS suffering, is worthy of being included as an heir of both Salvation and Spirit filled Living.

       Presently the world mimics the lifestyle of the Romans in the days which Paul writes of. Lascivious living, unfettered and seemingly uncondemned, yet an inheritance of suffering and destruction awaits those who partake. Living as Paul states, as the Righteousness of God through Christ Jesus, brings about persecution and suffering for a season and a time, yet it's Inheritance is guaranteed through the Testimony of Holy Spirit.

     Paul further tells of the groanings of all creation, those who abide in Christ endure sufferings Faithfully, for they too have received divine revelation from God's Spirit as to the Inheritance awaiting them.

     It would be incomprehensible to think that a Believer would conceive sharing with others anything which would lead them to death and eternal separation from God's Glorious Presence. Yet, there is a message of Truth, which Believers must be ever viligant to Proclaim, for the souls of millions so delicately hang in the balances of Eternity. Only that we should be as Paul, and fully realize the weight of our own conviction to share the Inheritance, would mean that others would enter into the Kingdom of God, a Life fully immersed by Holy Spirit.

     O'Lord, YOU have opened my eyes to the Splendor and Glory of YOUR Son. This world has nothing for me, only YOU have provided for my future, Eternity in YOUR Presence. My heart is pierced with many sorrows, yet YOU Comfort me by YOUR Holy Spirit. I render all that I am to YOU, use me now to Boldly and Fearlessly Proclaim that YOUR Kingdom awaits all who will receive with gladness YOUR Offering of Love. There is never any condemnation for those who abide in YOU and are guided by YOUR Spirit of Holiness and Righteousness. To YOU be all Praise, Glory and Honor, Amen