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FirePOWER! |
| 'Spiritual
FUEL for the
Soul'
The Agape
Letters Ministry Newsletter
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Thursday May 28, 2009 (5 Sivan 5769) "Revealing Truth and
Power!" 2 Corinthians 10:5 (Amplified Bible)[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One), In this inspired WORD written by Paul, we must realize the fullness of God's Power that Believers have been given through the Anointing of Holy Spirit. Having been released from our own bondage, captivity and slavery, that of living previously opposed to the Freedom, Liberty and Salvation afforded us in Christ Jesus, we are encouraged by Paul to refute every vain thought that would attempt to lead us back into a life of disobedience. In our weakness of bringing our flesh into submission, we have obtained God's Provision of Power through HIS Grace. HIS Gift of Life so Abundant and Free, was purchased through the Obedience of Christ as HE submitted to God's Plan for our Redemption upon that cruel Cross of Calvary. Every day many Believers face opposing ideals to the Gospel of Christ, but none of those arguments, theories or reasonings are reinforced with the Power of Holy Spirit. They have been found to be nothing more than folly and foolishness when exposed by the Light of God's WORD. Paul stood steadfast in the Knowledge of Truth, exposing the Truth of Christ Jesus to those who were mislead by an enemy that seeks only to kill, steal and destroy every Act of Obedience. A Passion to awaken this and many generations that would follow, as to the Victory we have been given over our weaknesses by our complete submission to Holy Spirit. Awakened by God's Spirit, our hearts must embrace the True Knowledge of God with such Passion and Zeal. Knowing that HIS WORD is Eternally Triumphant over every dark and sinister attempt to lure us backward into captivity, bondage to carnal reasoning that is a stench in the nostrils of a Holy and Righteous God. O'Lord, YOUR Spirit has awakened my heart to the Truth
and Power of YOUR Living WORD, Freeing me from the bondage and
captivity of foolish and vain arguments that attempt to sway
my Obedience to YOUR Sovereign Will. I submit to YOUR Holy
Spirit for Counsel, and will Faithfully heed YOUR WORD each
day. YOUR Spirit Anoints my heart with the Truth
destroying the yoke that once bound my heart. Direct my
footsteps along YOUR Path of Righteousness, that I
be Acceptable and Pleasing in YOUR sight, to Boldly serve
YOU as a Kingdom son. Forever will YOU be my Lord and my
King, Amen
"Abiding
in LOVE!" Ephesians 3:17 (Amplified Bible) May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, As Holy Spirit transformed the heart of a man such as Paul, I realize that through my Faith, I must portray and reflect the Deep and Abiding Love of Christ. Existing as the foundation, it is upon this deep and selfless Love, that every relationship in life must be built upon, or those relationships will soon begin to crumble and ultimately fail.
A safe and secure dwelling or home, is built
only upon a solid, deep and secure
foundation, just as my relationship with
Christ Jesus must be, and as it was for Paul, in order to sustain me through each test and trial that
comes into my life. This foundation is my
Faith in HIM who calmed the storm while
the disciples were on the sea, and HE is
forever able to calm every storm that each of
us encounter as well.
Christ knew HIS disciple's Faith
would soon be strengthened, when Holy
Spirit came upon them on the Day of
Pentecost, dwelling within their hearts which had been created, formed and shaped by the Lord, who is
The Author and Creator of all Life as well
as our Faith.
Deeply rooted and securely founded
in that Faith in Christ, as my Lord
and Savior, Holy Spirit prepares my heart daily with a growing
measure of Love for those who have never
heard the Gospel of Christ, and that is
how HE sustains us each day as well so those before us
and those who will come after.
Love is to be shared with those around me
who do not know Christ, and it is HIS Love
which abides within my heart that
sustains that desire to tell
others about HIM.
O'Lord, how YOUR Love overflows into my
heart, transforming me into a caring and
compassionate servant, that I be strengthened with
boldness to witness. All Power and Authority is YOURs to give
through Holy Spirit, yet that will mean nothing if YOUR
Love is absent from my heart. I must lean only upon YOUR
understanding, coming to know the Joy and Peace that calms
my heart before, during and after the storm.
It
is because of YOUR Deep and Abiding Love for us that
YOU came and died, that we may know YOU and share this
Love with
others, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Tuesday May 26, 2009 (3 Sivan 5769) "Brand
of Ownership!" Ephesians 1:12-14 ( Amplified Bible)So that we who first hoped in Christ [who first put our confidence in Him have been destined and appointed to] live for the praise of His glory! In Him you also who have heard the Word of Truth, the glad tidings (Gospel) of your salvation, and have believed in and adhered to and relied on Him, were stamped with the seal of the long-promised Holy Spirit. That [Spirit] is the guarantee of our inheritance [the firstfruits, the pledge and foretaste, the down payment on our heritage], in anticipation of its full redemption and our acquiring [complete] possession of it--to the praise of His glory. All are familiar with the practice of branding livestock as a method of proving ownership. This provides a discernable and visible mark, a procedure that usually involves heating an instrument in coals of fire, which is then used to sear the flesh leaving the owner's seal as a way of identification.Paul explains here how God seals each Believer with Holy Spirit, searing our heart of flesh, leaving HIS mark which proves ownership. My heart now burns with passion, a desire to Praise HIM who purchased me as a valued and prized possession with HIS Love. Mankind differs in many ways from livestock, in that we were created with a will to choose whom we belong to. Acknowledging that as a possession of God, Believers gladly endure this process of ownership branding, for the Praise of HIS Glory. As with any owner, who is honored by the quality of his possessions, so is God Honored and Glorified when Believers such as Paul, Joyfully Declare with much Zeal and great Joy, who owns them, spirit, soul and body. So symbolic is this picture of sacrificing my sinful and selfish flesh upon that flaming altar before my Lord, where HE promises complete and full Redemption of my soul. Searing the depths of my heart, HE proves HIS Love, and for that I become an Offering that brings Honor and Glory to HIS Holy Name. O'Lord, purify YOUR Bride with
the flaming Fire of YOUR Holy Spirit. Burn from within my
heart all that is not of YOU. I submit my will to YOUR Will,
that YOU may cleanse my heart and take possession of my soul.
With great Joy and Zeal will I Declare YOU as my Master. My
life was purchased with YOUR Precious Blood, I now
receive an Eternal Inheritance promised and made sure by YOUR
Flaming Spirit of Fire. The Everlasting Truth of
YOUR WORD that sears my heart, branding me for YOUR Praise,
Glory that Honors and Exalts YOU
forever, Amen
"Bathed by Holy Fire!" 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. Paul's letter to Titus contains some of God's deepest revelation as to the 'cleansing' Power of Holy Spirit. Even as Peter had walked daily with Christ, he commented that some of Paul's writings were sometimes difficult to understand with my carnal mind.Yet I find it IS the WORDs of Christ, which explain both the reason for God's 'pouring out' of Holy Spirit, and also of God's intent to make known to Believers the depths of HIS Grace and Power. John 16:13 (Amplified Bible) But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future]. God's all consuming 'Fire' of purification, cleanses my heart and my mind, to receive this 'impartation' for understanding of God's desires as Paul says, 'those mysteries which for ages have been hidden, are those things which even the angels of heaven have longingly desired to look into' 1 Corinthians 2:16 (Amplified Bible) 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. For there are a multitude of spiritual things which God desires to reveal, making them known now as I submit my understanding to HIS Spirit, having had my heart and mind 'bathed' with Holy 'Fire'. O'Lord, thank YOU for releasing
YOUR Spirit, for understanding to know YOUR thoughts and ways.
My heart and mind washed with YOUR Fire, 'burning' into my
heart more of YOUR Will. Made anew by YOUR cleansing deposit
of Love, where an inheritance awaits in heaven above. Assured
of this, YOUR Spirit affirms, YOUR Truth and Righteouness are
Everlasting. May others seek and find YOU in this FIRE. Bathe
me with YOUR WORD, O'Lord, a burning FIRE that cannot be
quenched,
Amen
"Perfecting Work
of Grace!" 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 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! So for the sake of Christ, I am well pleased and take pleasure in infirmities, insults, hardships, persecutions, perplexities and distresses; for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength). Paul writes openly of his personal weakness, of which by his own strength he is incapable of overcoming. There are many Believers in Christ today, who are reluctant to admit that there exists a personal weakness in their flesh. Paul states the he will gladly glory in his weaknesses, so that the Power of God might rest upon and dwell within him, perfecting him in Grace and strengthening him through sufferings.Often we give excuses. We are too busy, lacking the knowledge or understanding, all of which to our minds are reason enough. Yet Christ Jesus addressed each one, as being a vain attempt to forego Obedience and Submission in our devotion and service to HIM and HIS Kingdom. This WORD speaks to each and every one of us, and we must look upon our weaknesses and sufferings as greater opportunities for Christ to be Glorified. That in them we might also boast of HIS Power at work within us. We are more than conquerors, we are overcomers. Victorious over every hardship, obstacle and weakness, made perfect by the Work of Holy Spirit. Christ in us, the Hope of Glory, where our Victory over personal weakness is made sure by God's Grace, both enduring and everlasting.
O'Lord, by YOUR Spirit am I counseled
in every trial and circumstance. For without YOU I can do
nothing, neither breathing nor speaking. It is by YOUR Grace,
as YOUR WORD says, will I be Strengthened,
becoming Victorious over my every weakness that YOU be
Glorified. A Witness of YOUR Eternal Truth, sealed and
delivered by the signature of Holy Spirit upon my
heart. All Praise and Honor to YOU my King. Complete in me
that perfect Work of Grace,
Amen
"Remaining Steadfast!" 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 (Amplified Bible)And to [recompense] you who are so distressed and afflicted [by granting you] relief and rest along with us [your fellow sufferers] when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in a flame of fire, To deal out retribution (chastisement and vengeance) upon those who do not know or perceive or become acquainted with God, and [upon those] who ignore and refuse to obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Such people will pay the penalty and suffer the punishment of everlasting ruin (destruction and perdition) and eternal exclusion and banishment from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, With each of the letters Paul wrote to the different fellowships of Believers in Christ, God's WORDs brought 'Encouragement' to HIS people during times of difficulties, strife, oppression and sometimes severe persecution. Moreso to the benefit of the entire Body of Christ, did Paul know the trials and temptations that he was presently enduring for his outspoken Faith in Christ Jesus. I am overwhelmed in knowing that Paul and those who worked alongside him in God's calling to Kingdom WORK, were openly disrespected and rebuked when seeking only to strengthen and encourage other Believers in Christ to grow and prosper in their personal relationship with God through HIS Son, Christ Jesus. Paul and other leaders had the monumental task set before them, exhorting and encouraging those Believers. Likening them to, shallow and mere infants in their Faith, opposites of those who had sacrificed everything to 'Serve and Obey' God, rather they had conformed themselves to an image that the world would accept and respect. Spiritual responsibilities and leadership roles are placed upon men and women who desire to 'Serve and Obey' God. As Paul, none should expect to be considered anything more than a fellowservant in the Kingdom of God. Where it is 'Righteous and Honourable', seeking daily to deepen our Faith under the Counsel and Guidance of Holy Spirit, growing into mature, sound and steadfast disciples who have responded to God's calling. Believers must never waver in their Service and Obedience to Christ despite being despised and scorned for their commitment. Opportunity abounds for us to 'Encourage, Strengthen and Equip' our fellow 'Brothers and Sisters' in Christ. O'Lord, YOUR hands mold my life and pattern me to YOUR likeness. I must allow YOUR Power to shape these rough edges, cleansing and purifying my heart in YOUR Ways. Christ lives in me as my Lord and HIM alone must I Obey, YOUR Spirit must quide my footsteps through this journey of life, a most narrow way. A voice crying from within, YOU have heard my deep desire to know MORE of YOUR Love for me. HOLY! HOLY! HOLY! How Majestic is YOUR Name, my 'SWORD and my Victory'. Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Wednesday May 20, 2009 (26 Iyyar 5769) "Active
in Three Parts!" Galatians 5:5-6 (Amplified Bible)For we, [not relying on the Law but] through the [Holy] Spirit's [help], by faith anticipate and wait for the blessing and good for which our righteousness and right standing with God [our conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action, causes us] to hope. For [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love. Though man's knowledge of many things has increased in the last century, it remains that an understanding of what Paul writes is for many, still a mystery. Scientists search the universe for answers to it's origin, and scholars study to determine the reason behind it's existence. Neither have arrived at a conclusion that completely fulfills man's desire to know it's purpose. Any desire of man that simply seeks knowledge, fails to appease what the heart longs for. Paul conveys to his readers how Faith, Hope and Love fill the heart of man, ending one's search for meaning and purpose. God's WORD says that HE uses the base things to confound the wise, yet HE reveals Truth to any who wholeheartedly seek first HIS Kingdom and HIS Righteousness. Plainly said, there is nothing outside the sphere of spiritual understanding, save Christ Jesus and HIM crucified, as Paul says, which merits the blessing of God's revelation to us as to the intended purpose for mankind's existence. Faith and Hope could be defined as such, an intense longing for that which is fully attainable and believeing that such can and will be completely and totally fulfilled. This Love which Paul writes of, is the fulfillment of that which we Hope for, whereby our Faith in HIM who Lives in and through us is expressed in action. Determined as many Believers are in being in God's Will, our Purpose must be driven by HIS Spirit, Power that both resurrected Christ and equally transforms us into the Perfect image of HIM whom we have believed in. Thus Paul admonishes us to live our lives as a Witness to Who God's Love is, giving Testimony of the Faith and Hope we have in Christ Jesus as the Savior and Redeemer of our soul. Believers must then be Active in Love, be held Accountable for the Hope we have in Christ and having been made Alive in HIM, Proclaim our Faith to others who search for that understanding, revealed in Truth by Holy Spirit. O'Lord, YOUR Spirit counsels me in the Truth of YOUR Everlasting WORD. Knowledge without understanding is of no value. YOU are unearthing gems of great value for YOUR Kingdom. Treasures that are Eternal, purchased by the Precious Blood of Jesus. An Inheritance Promised to those whom YOU have adopted as Sons and Daughters, led to live and walk daily in YOUR Spirit. Praise YOUR Holy Name, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Tuesday May 19, 2009 (25 Iyyar 5769) "Guardians of Love!" Ephesians 4:3 (Amplified Bible)Be eager and strive earnestly to guard and keep the harmony and oneness of [and produced by] the Spirit in the binding power of peace. Many will agree that it is quite often, difficult to maintain harmony and peace, yet as Believers we are commanded to strive for that Oneness of Spirit which Paul admonishes us so strongly towards. How often we are thrust into situations that tests the very limits of this principle. It is during these times, we are to be mindful of the response given by Christ whenever HE was confronted by those who despised HIS teaching of Truth and Love. Having Love one for another, goes hand in hand with the Love we have for our heavenly Father. Paul speaks of Holy Spirit as Power, binding our hearts together in a demonstration of Peace and Unity which is a foreign concept to a world of self-centered people. Being tested many times in this, I can truthfully say that guarding the Harmony and Peace amongst brothers and sisters who are in Christ, is often a thankless task. Yet we are instructed to pursue Love at whatever the cost may be. Laying the foundation of Truth in our relationships with other Believers, sets the groundwork upon which we are able to labor corporately and successfully alongside one another in the Kingdom of God O'Lord, guide me as I seek harmony and unity with others. YOU are the Cornerstone upon which every relationship I have must be built. I must guard my heart against the enemy who so treacherously attempts to destroy my relationships with others. With every breath I will pursue Love built upon YOUR Truth. YOU soothe my soul with YOUR Peace, binding my heart with YOURs in Unity. Forever will I Praise YOUR Name with my all that is within me, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Friday May 15, 2009 (21 Iyyar 5769) "Past
the Veil!" Hebrews 6:19 (Amplified Bible)[Now] we have this [hope] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it--a hope] that reaches farther and enters into [the very certainty of the Presence] within the veil, This scripture speaks directly of the Hope that we have in the Anointed One, who removed forever the restrictive veil that for centuries denied access into the Prescence of our Holy and Righteous Father.Having began with Moses, then extending throughout the succeeding centuries until Christ, only those men selected as High Priest, who having been sanctified and purified could enter past the curtain which separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies. A sacred place shrouded in mystery, restrained God's Glory from the eyes and hearts of those who sought to see and know HIM as HE is. God's WORD clearly says that no mortal man is allowed entrance into HIS Presence, yet because Christ Jesus fulfilled for all time the sacrifice necessary to abolish that partition, Believers are now able to approach HIS throne of Mercy. Venturing past the outer courts of Praise, Believers in Christ are themselves clothed as Priests, shrouded by the spiritual raiment of God's Spirit and view the bowl of cleansing which represents the Living Water which purifies us. Drawn by an unsatiable desire to see HIS Glory, our eyes see what the Prophet Isaiah saw. Thankfully for the finished WORK of Christ at Calvary, we are able to experience a Holy Visitation with our heavenly Father. Our ears then hear the Voice of HIM who was, who is and who is to come. The WORD of God given in Love, that any who will believe in HIM and the Testimony of Holy Spirit, might recieve the gift of Life and dwell in HIS Presence. It is the Sovereign Will of God that no one remain outside in the darkness, absent from HIS Presence, yet there remains many who hesitate at the invitation of accepting by Faith the Gospel of Christ Jesus. As witnesses to HIS Grace, we must be Obedient in this late hour to labor tirelessly in Proclaiming Christ Jesus as the Truth, the only HOPE fully able to present us as HIS blameless and spotless Bride before the Father. O'Lord, quicken my heart to obey YOUR WORD, guide me by YOUR Spirit to accomplish my task as a Witness. YOUR Glory penetrates the depths of my soul, shining brightly as a Testimony of YOUR Love. It is in YOU alone that I have Hope, a Trust that my life belongs with YOU forever. My Lord is seated at YOUR right hand, waiting for that day of HIS Glorious return. YOUR Kingdom reigns within my heart forever, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Thursday May 14, 2009 (20 Iyyar 5769) "The
King's Provision!" Matthew 25:44-45 (Amplified Bible)Then they also [in their turn] will answer, Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You? And He will reply to them, Solemnly I declare to you, in so far as you failed to do it for the least [in the estimation of men] of these, you failed to do it for Me. Each time that I read this scripture, I gain a new understanding of what Christ is teaching me as a Kingdom Believer. A life led by Holy Spirit of living Righteously, acceptable in HIS sight, being a reflection which pleases HIM.My hunger and thirst is minimal in comparison to the desparation and hopelessness of so many that have never received God's Provision of a Savior, HIS Promise of Holy Spirit and HIS Gift of Eternal Life. If I fail to minister to these, as Jesus tells me, then I will have denied HIM in being who HE has Called and Purposed me for in this life. HE spoke to the Samariatan women at the well, telling her about the Living Water, which could quench her thirst and fill her soul with Peace Everlasting. HE spoke to the crowd who were hungry, taking 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread, quenching the hunger in their hearts for the Bread of Life that soothes the soul with Joy Everlasting. There is much more to being an Obedient witness for Christ as I continually find each time I read HIS WORDs. That of me being Diligent and Obedient to minister to others in their present circumstance, where they will be fed and clothed, be set free and made whole by the Power of HIS Spirit. These are the 'Food and Drink' of HIS Kingdom WORK, and I must follow HIS example each day, for the resulting Conquest of Souls. All this to be the Praise of HIS Glory, Honoring HIS Holy and Righteous Name among those imprisoned, naked and sick in the earth who are hungry and thirsty for Hope. O'Lord, YOU lead me to those places of service, and by YOUR Power YOU give me provisions and strength to do YOUR Works of ministry. Use me to deliver YOUR comfort and hope to them who are in need, that YOU will fill their hearts with Peace and Joy. Guide my eyes to see the pain and sorrows of others, so that through me YOUR Spirit can move mightily. Thank YOU guiding me on the path that leads me to YOUR rest, my Lord and my King forevermore, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Wednesday May 13, 2009 (19 Iyyar 5769) "A
People Joined in POWER!" Ephesians 4:16 (Amplified Bible)For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love. The foundation for Paul's writing here is, to further explain how a people separated and called forth as Believers are to individually and corporately live, move and have our being in the POWER of God's Spirit. Commissioned for service in the Kingdom of God, joined together in such a way as to work properly and productively. As a Body, each Believer is 'fitted' for and with diverse and various roles, called to function as One. Nurtured by God's Spirit to grow, fed from 'birth' with the spiritual milk of HIS 'rhema' WORD, and then strengthened and sustained by the meat of HIS 'agape' Love. Functioning apart from the designed Order which Christ Jesus established by HIS Life, robs the Body of it's full potential. Incapable of fullfulling both the Calling and Purpose for which the church was assigned by the King and Lord of our Faith. By HIS Love, the kind which Christ so selflessly lived by giving sacrificially upon Calvary's Cross, is that sinew that binds together the hearts of Believers for service in the house which God is building. Given that our hands administer God's Mercy yet are undirected by HIS arms of Love, benefit neither those served nor the servant. Feet which propel Believers toward delivering HIS Gospel of Peace yet go unsupported by HIS legs of Truth severely diminish the WORK of Grace in the lives of both the Righteous and the hopeless. Believers must speak HIS WORD in Power from a heart that has been transfused with HIS Blood, the River of LIFE that flows through every part of the Body. A United Body of people birthed spiritually, called and ordained to accomplish HIS WORK in the Power of our Sovereign Lord throughout the earth. O'Lord, direct me each day with YOUR Spirit, as I walk by Faith in the knowledge of YOUR Love so Powerful. Reveal to my eyes those things which I have not yet seen. Speak to my ears those sounds which I have yet to hear. My heart is Passionate to know YOU and do the WORK that YOU have fitted me for. Hear me as I give YOU all the Honor and Praise that my King is worthy of. Bind me with YOUR Spirit for it is in YOUR Glory and Presence that I desire to live forever, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Tuesday May 12, 2009 (18 Iyyar 5769) "Living
under HIS Reign!" Hebrews 6:7-8 (Amplified Bible)For the soil which has drunk the rain that repeatedly falls upon it and produces vegetation useful to those for whose benefit it is cultivated partakes of a blessing from God. But if [that same soil] persistently bears thorns and thistles, it is considered worthless and near to being cursed, whose end is to be burned. For Believers in Christ to continue producing the good fruit that pleases God, we must drink of HIS Spirit each and every day. Those who remain Obedient to HIS Will receive every benefit and blessing that HE has promised. Having a heart that has been changed by Holy Spirit, transformed from soil that produced only thorns and thistles, to fertile ground into which God's WORD has been planted. I need for HIS Reign to daily soak me so that the roots of my understanding will grow deep and strong, then I can produce the Harvest of good fruit that pleases HIM. As a servant in the Kingdom of God, HIS WORD promises there will be an abundance of blessing in my life. HE values each Believer as a priceless parcel, because HE paid a ransom with HIS life to purchase our souls. Holy Spirit will prepare and nurture the fertile ground of our heart, a field that has been cleared of the briars and thorns that hinder a successful harvest. Believers must continue being Faithful to produce good fruit, an abundant harvest for an overflow of souls into HIS Kindgom, where Christ REIGNs daily in our lives. O'Lord, pour out upon me a flood of YOUR Spirit and YOUR Truth. Cultivate my heart to receive a greater understanding of YOUR WORD. For YOUR Kingdom to be filled and overflowing. YOU have planted me in this place to grow and bear a Harvest for YOU. I will remain Faithful and be strengthened by YOUR Reign. To YOU be all Glory, Honor and Power Forever, Amen
'A Warrior's Daily Journal'Monday May 11, 2009 (17 Iyyar 5769) "What God's Kingdom
IS!" Romans 14:17 (Amplified Bible)[After all] the kingdom of God is not a matter of [getting the] food and drink [one likes], but instead it is righteousness (that state which makes a person acceptable to God) and [heart] peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Throughout the Gospels, Christ Jesus used several analogies which metaphorically describe the Kingdom of God. None of which can be fully comprehended by the mortal mind, yet completely understood when the listener has received the Counsel of Holy Spirit.God's WORD states that Holy Spirit transforms the mind of a Believer, and reveals the hidden meaning of the once unknown, bringing clarity to those sights and sounds associated with HIS Kingdom. Paul who writes under the Anointing and Inspiration of Holy Spirit, clearly states what the Kingdom is NOT, and instead shares with us a deep and Everlasting Truth. Righteousness of those acceptable in God's sight, is granted by the Way of Jesus and the Atoning Sacrifice HE made on the Cross of Calvary. Bearing our penalty and shame, that we might be made Righteous. Our Peace was purchased with the Most Precious Blood of the Lamb, lovingly poured out upon heaven's altar. Cleansing the heart of every Believer, allowing unfettered entrance into the Very Presence of our heavenly Father. Joy replaces the mourning and weeping, of all that was once dead, being now made ALIVE by the Resurrection of Christ. God's POWER opened that dark grave, revealing the 'Light of the world', our KING, Triumphant and Victorious over death, hell and the grave. God's Kingdom is about Christ Jesus, our King. In and through HIM, the Everlasting WORD satisfies our hunger and thirst that food nor drink will ever be able to. A banquet, a feast upon which Believers are nourished. Honor and Glory to the Host of heaven, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Holy Spirit beckons us to know HIM and receive our inheritance in HIS Holy Presence. O'Lord, it is only by YOUR Spirit that
YOU feed my hungry heart with Kingdom Truth.
Quenching my thirst of YOUR Righteous, with the Living Water
of YOUR WORD. YOU have opened my eyes and ears to those
sights and sounds of YOUR Kingdom that nourish and sustain.
The Seed that is planted in the fertile soil of my heart,
grows and will produce fruit from the True Vine. The Reign of
YOUR Spirit Comforts me with the refreshing dew of YOUR Holy
Presence each morning. Guide me as I labor in the Vineyard of
YOUR Amazing Love, Amen
"Fragrance of Desire!" 2 Corinthians 2:15
For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which exhales] unto God, [discernible alike] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing: The Power of God, Holy Spirit, transforms and regenerates Believers in Christ, from a position of perishing and the eternal separation for the Holy Presence of God, to a position of Salvation and seated eternally with Christ in heaven. Like the blooming flowers in springtime, those who have placed their Faith and Hope in Christ Jesus, as the Apostle Paul says, are a fragrance that is sweet and pleasing in the nostrils of a Loving and Righteous God. There is nothing which smells more vile than that of stagnant water, where there is a void of 'The Light' and 'The Wind', which represent God's Son and HIS Spirit. Both of which are Powerful and Mighty, able only to move and stir those men and women, whose greatest desire is to live in HIS Presence daily and serve HIM with gladness. For those who refuse to accept and allow Holy Spirit to move Powerfully upon their hearts, they constantly resist the Gospel of Christ, where they will ultimately face the eternal punishment for their choice. I desire to be that fragrant and pleasant aroma which Paul mentions, bringing God's TRUTH and Life to those who are without HOPE. Having such sweet fellowship in Christ, to bear an abundance of blossoms that are in HIS WORD and expecting the endtime Harvest of fruit which is Promised to be exceedingly abundant and will come from being Obedient to HIS Calling and HIS Spirit. O'Lord, I Rejoice in YOUR Enduring
Grace and Abundant Mercy, and YOUR Son who gave HIS Life for
my Forgiveness and Salvation. There is no other choice in this
life which I could ever make, that will change my eternal
future with such HOPE and Promise. YOUR Power transforms and
renews my desire to Honor YOU, guiding me to a deeper
knowledge of YOUR WORD each day. Place me in the path of
someone today who does not know YOU, so they too may Rejoice
in YOUR Light and Eternal Life so free. YOU alone are WORTHY,
O'Lord of my Honor, Glory and Praise. Hallelujah, Christ Jesus
Arose and IS Alive, Living within my heart
today, Amen
"The
POSSIBLE of Salvation!" Mark
10:27 Jesus glanced around at them and said, With men [it is] impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God. At the time, this statement made by Christ to HIS Disciples may not have been quite the answer they were expecting. Their question to HIM was, 'Who then can be saved?' They had just witnessed Jesus as HE confronted a wealthy young man about choosing between riches and security or salvation and righteousness. Jesus explained how much easier it would be for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle as compared to the likelihood of a wealthy man entering the Kingdom of God. This analogy most certainly confused them, for it is not in their question, but in HIS answer, that we find a great Truth. Knowing that in the spiritual realm, tangible riches have no value, Jesus shed Light on the young man's heart, exposing his true allegiance to that of having and holding onto his earthly wealth. Making such a choice grieves the heart of God, and thereby forever seals shut the gates of Eternity for those who turn and walk away because they hold in higher esteem, their earthly possessions and wealth. Thankfully, salvation for one's soul does not rely upon the probability of a camel passing through a needle's eye, but in the very fact that God makes the impossible POSSIBLE. For in the eyes of God, those who choose to follow Christ, pass through the once impossible veil of death, into Life in HIS Eternal Kingdom. Consider for a moment, the millions of Israelites facing inescapable and impending death of on the banks of the Red Sea. Were it not for God's desire to have a remnant of people who were devoted to HIM, their lives along with all their possessions would have perished, had they chosen not to follow Moses. Deliverance from the throes of death, is what Christ Jesus accomplished through HIS Resurrection. A promise of greater and unimaginable wealth, should any choose to forfeit all they possess in this life, and follow the Savior. Becoming a POSSESSION of the Lord of the IMPOSSIBLE, completely believing that in HIM, Salvation is POSSIBLE. By Faith in Christ, are the immeasureable riches of an everlasting Kingdom found. HE Joyfully restores more than whatever it is that we have sacrificed to follow HIM. For many, the idea of a camel passing through the eye of a needle, is no longer a stumbling block in their decision, given that their 'eyes' have been opened to the Truth by God's Spirit. O'Lord, guide me each day as I follow YOU. Purify
my heart, with YOUR Holy Fire. Use every part of me
to accomplish even greater exploits for YOUR
Glory. I choose today and every day to follow YOU,
leaving all that would hinder my devotion to YOU. In
YOUR Love for me, I have gained an inheritance that far
exceeds any earthly value. I want to sit at YOUR feet,
and drink from the cup in YOUR hand, my Savior, Lord and King,
Amen
"Economic Advisory!" Colossians 2:2
[For my concern is] that their hearts may be braced (comforted, cheered, and encouraged) as they are knit together in love, that they may come to have all the abounding wealth and blessings of assured conviction of understanding, and that they may become progressively more intimately acquainted with and may know more definitely and accurately and thoroughly that mystic secret of God, [which is] Christ (the Anointed One). Short and simple are these WORDs written by Paul to the Colossian Believers. Of an economy based upon a standard much different than what the world defines as comfortable or successful. Many times Christ Jesus spoke to HIS Disciples of the Blessing and Wealth of the Kingdom of God. Unmeasurable by any of this world's standards, surpassing even that of King Solomon. It is recorded where those 1st Century Believers sought diligently after following the example that Christ outlined. Where meeting both the physical as well as the spiritual needs of the poor, said volumes a to the exceeding wealth of Love for them and their circumstance as opposed to earthly riches which only brought forth bondage and greed. Where many look at being wealthy as having the ability to chart their own life's course, it is a much different economy in the Kingdom of God that steers the heart of Believers. For many of them their prowess in financial matter is unquestionable, yet their spiritual estate is often bankrupt and in desparate need of Divine Intervention. These WORDs of the Lord, speak directly to this condition in Revelation 3:17; For you say, I am rich; I have prospered and grown wealthy, and I am in need of nothing; and you do not realize and understand that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. Yet in the next verse, the Lord offers an Eternal remedy to this condition. Revelation 3:18; Therefore I counsel you to purchase from Me gold refined and tested by fire, that you may be [truly] wealthy, and white clothes to clothe you and to keep the shame of your nudity from being seen, and salve to put on your eyes, that you may see. Those riches which are obtained through the flaming Fire of God's Spirit, sustain a Believer through the pressures of a fallen economy, supplying a hedge against inflation. Comforted and braced by the vast wealth of Knowledge gained through a deeply intimate relationship with the King of kings. O'Lord, the knowledge of YOU and YOUR Love for me
is beyond all the wealth and riches I once longed for. Now I
long for YOUR Spirit to guide me, purifying the shameful
blindness of my heart. I am enriched by the Truth, YOUR Spirit
of Life is now alive in me, having prospered my soul
beyond all that I could have ever imagined. May YOUR
Glory come and fill my heart with the immeasureable riches of
YOUR Kingdom, Amen
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