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    'Spiritual FUEL for the Soul'            The Agape Letters Ministry Newsletter

 



'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday September 30, 2009 (12 Tishri 5770)

 "Wind and Reign!" Inline Image

   Acts 2:2 (Amplified Bible)     

   When suddenly there came a sound from heaven like the rushing of a violent tempest blast, and it filled the whole house in which they were sitting.

     Luke records the sights and sounds which occurred on the Day of Pentecost, of a sound which likened to that of a Mighty Rushing Wind from Heaven, sweeping violently through the house where the Disciples of Jesus were assembled, resting upon each of them in what appeared as 'Tongues of Fire'. As fulfillment to what Christ had told them earlier before HIS ascension, that they would receive God's Promised Holy Spirit, engulfing them with Power and would bring both remembrance of HIS WORDs and understanding of things which were yet to be fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.

     When Nicodemus had come to Jesus with questions about the Kingdom of God, he had a difficult time understanding what Christ meant. John 3:5-8 Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit." I believe that Jesus was speaking PROPHETically to Nicodemus, revealing the 'Storm' which was coming, begining with the 'Wind', which brings the sweet fragrance of 'Reign', the very Holy and Glorious Presence of God, to dwell within us as Believers.

     Just as God had spoken from the mountain, to the children of Israel in a 'Voice' which 'Thundered', sounding extremely similiar to what was heard by those Disciples at Pentecost. Where streaks of 'LIGHTning' blaze across the sky as the approaching 'Clouds' gather to 'POUR' out the Refreshing Water from heaven, I see the contrast of the fear which overtook the Israelites, and the BOLDNESS that came and upon HIS Disciples then as does TODAY, as a 'FIRE' that WILL NEVER be quenched!!!

     Christ Jesus intends for HIS followers to deeply and fully know HIM. HIS ascension prompted the fulfillment of God's Promise, for Holy Spirit would come, and as our Teacher, brings Understanding of Spiritual things which are necessary for Believers to abide and prosper in Kingdom Living. Years later, the Elder Apostle John would receive deeper revelation in the form of a vision, clearly 'CONFIRMATION' of both Jesus' WORDs and those which God had spoken through HIS Prophet Joel. 'So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.'

Joel 2:28-29 "And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days."

     These WORDs are a 'Promise' from God, HIS desire that Believers not only know the 'Beginning' of what Christ refers to as TRUTH regarding the 'Kingdom of God' as it is established upon the earth, but also the 'Ending' which brings fulfillment to HIS Eternal Plan for those who become HIS followers.

Revelation 19:6 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty Reigns.

     God's WORD is consistent, the SAME yesterday, today and forevermore,,, ETERNAL! Many today are seeking for TRUTH, and the WORDs of Christ bear tangible and undeniable Testimony of God's Love for all mankind. Enveloped by the 'WIND' of Holy Spirit, which as God says will 'REIGN' in the lives of Believers, bringing 'SPIRITual' change to the atmospshere of our hearts, and by listening to HIS 'VOICE' which 'THUNDERS' from Heaven, HE Sovereingly directs every 'MOVE' made which will advance the knowledge of HIS Kingdom throughout the whole earth. In these 'Days of Elijah', God's GLORY will once again Blaze across the sky, as Christ Jesus Triumphantly Returns as KING 'Riding upon a White Horse'. HIS NAME written upon the 'CLOUDS' of witnesses with HIS Precious Blood, and from the lips of those who call HIM LORD, a SHOUT will be heard that will make the 'Mountains tremble and Seas roar', "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty Reigns."

   O'Lord, I yearn deeply to understand fully YOUR Wisdom, which will steer my life through each day I live. YOUR Mighty WIND, a rushing sound blowing from heaven, bringing YOUR refreshing REIGN which my soul needs. I must listen to YOUR Thundering Voice in my ears, YOUR LIGHTning gives me clear vision to walk by Faith. Burn from within my heart those things not of YOU, O'Lord, that I may be flooded head to toe, with YOUR Living Water and Spirit of Truth, raised up as a BOLD witness by YOUR Powerful FIRE. Burn in me, Yes Lord, Burn in me,Let the Fire of YOUR Holy ONE burn in meAmen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday September 29, 2009 (11 Tishri 5770)

 "Weapon of Warfare!" Inline Image

   Hebrews 4:12 (Amplified Bible)     

   For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.

     These inspired WORDs given by Holy Spirit to the writer of Hebrews, reaffirms what the majority of the 1st century Apostles and Disciples were proclaiming as Truth. There was the debate over whether God's Power was an active, continual and ongoing WORK through Believers, opposing every lifeless god and vain idol that carnal man crafts intending to worship.

     This same debate continues in the 21st century, and Believers must refrain from 'dulling' what God has spoken of as 'sharper' than any two-edged sword. There are even some who have compromised their Faith, by their limiting of Holy Spirt as God's assigned and designated 'Weapon of Warfare'. Even to the point of doubting the manifestation of HIS Power to perform signs and wonders and Authority over a spiritual realm which Christ declared as conquered territory.

     Territory which Believers have gained by inheritance through the death and triumphant resurrection of Christ Jesus. We are to NOT be 'simple-minded' in our understanding of this, NO, WE MUST be 'Christ-minded' concerning God's Spirit, speaking with Power and Authority as appointed and designated 'Kings and Priests'. Acknowledging and Declaring HIS Spirit as True and Living, both Alive and Effective as an Eternal Testimony to God's Unchanging and Uncompromising WORD.

     The Apostle Paul writes, there is nothing 'dead'lier, than a dispatched 'Warrior', a Believer that is 'DEAD' to their 'flesh', being now made 'Alive' in Christ. Prepared spiritually for every battle, fitted with the 'Armor of God' and courageously shouting Praises to our Lord and King.

     In these troublesome days, there is a common perception that there is NO spiritual warfare currently taking place in the earth. Many whose walk as Believers, teters back and forth across the 'dividing line' between 'slave and servant', often bypassing or even ignoring the 'dispensation' of God's WORD concerning Holy Spirit. We must 'Advance the Kingdom of God' upon the earth, subjecting our hearts to being 'exposed and sifted' by HIS Spiritual Counsel. For the purposes of our hearts will be judged, those being to bring Glory and Honor to Christ Jesus.

   O'Lord, YOU are a Fire and a Rock, and YOU burn and crush YOUR every enemy. I stand each morning in awe of YOUR Power, to breathe Life into souls once dead. The world sees only dry bones, but I SEE an ARMY, filled with YOUR Spirit, I willingly die to myself, that I may LIVE for YOU forever. Rise up, O' Army of God, listen to the sound, the earth and all of it's fullness, belongs to the Lord, our Savior and King, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Friday September 25, 2009 (7 Tishri 5770)

 "Deepened Faith!" Inline Image

   Hebrews 10:23 (Amplified Bible)     

   So let us seize and hold fast and retain without wavering the hope we cherish and confess and our acknowledgement of it, for He Who promised is reliable (sure) and faithful to His word.

     The writer of Hebrews tells me of the Faith of so many who have previously and are presently relying upon God for everything. Moving to that level in our own Faith, comes not from our own strength, although it is being strengthened daily by Holy Spirit, but our Faith grows from acknowledging that God never wavers from HIS Promise.

     Depending entirely upon the boundless Grace and Mercies of God, there is assurance that whatever HE says, HE WILL DO! Learning more of walking completely by Faith in Christ and not by sight, there is nothing that is impossible for God to do through us, only if we allow HIM to.

     Similiar in every way to those 1st century Apostles and disciples, each day our lives must be a reminder of the mission and purpose that we as Believers have been assigned and called to as Faithful servants.

     Remaining Faithful to the Gospel of Christ brings Glory and Honor to God, and by seizing and taking firm hold of every Promise of God, HE is able to manifest an increase of HIS Power and continue HIS WORK, whereby we gain the strength necessary to Obediently advance against the kingdom of darkness.

   O'Lord, the depth of YOUR Love is unmeasureable, and YOUR Glory which surrounds me is immense. My Faith in YOU is far more than Provision, and far more than Prosperity, it is YOUR Power which delivers and strengthens me. When I am weak, YOU are strong, mighty to save. I will arise as a mighty Warrior, a fomidable witness of YOUR Power, TRUTH and Life. By YOUR Grace and Mercy, every Testimony abounds as Declaration of YOUR HOPE, pressing me onward in Deeper Faith, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday September 23, 2009 (5 Tishri 5770)

 "A Yearning Bride!" Inline Image

   Philippians 1:8-10  (Amplified Bible)     

   For God is my witness how I long for and pursue you all with love, in the tender mercy of Christ Jesus [Himself]! And this I pray: that your love may abound yet more and more and extend to its fullest development in knowledge and all keen insight [that your love may display itself in greater depth of acquaintance and more comprehensive discernment], So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble]

     To fully understand what Paul means by 'discerning what is best', we must look deeply into God's WORD for 'increased knowledge and insight', hungry to experience the affection Christ Jesus has for all who believe in HIM. Love is a necessary and vital part of everyone's life, awash with a myriad of emotions, some shallow and superficial while others are deep and many times heart wrenching.

     What Paul desires to express as he writes, is that my knowing the 'affection of Christ Jesus be made complete', urges us to follow an example portrayed through the life and subsequent death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior. While Life is so often characterized merely by the quality of living, Paul portrays with WORDs the very depths of Christ' LOVE, as were publicly expressed over 2000 years ago at Calvary.

     As the 'foundation' was being laid in the hearts of those 1st century disciples, it is upon this LOVE, which HIS church would be built and stand strong upon throughout the forthcoming ages, despite the hurts and broken committments that in diverse ways, often test even the most dedicated Believer.

     Being much more than just a casual acquaintance, but as an ageless Testimony and Witness to the world of such self-less sacrifice, it is through Holy Spirit that Believers are romanced into a binding and everlasting Covenant relationship with Christ, remaining pure and blameless towards that day of HIS soon return.

   O'Lord, YOUR Love for me is such a comforting bliss, sweet fellowship with kisses that I dare not miss. YOUR hands extended towards me both in Passion and pain, a sight that lifts my heart with such comforting gain. By YOUR Spirit is my life made new and whole, a Promise and a seal that strenghens my weary soul. YOU walk with me each day as a Lover and dear friend, I dare not miss one moment as my life will one day end. My Faith rests upon YOU and YOUR unchanging WORD, the most Precious Love song I have ever heard. YOU sing and dance over me as I watch for YOUR Glorious return. I will magnify and exalt YOUR Precious Name in all the earthAmen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday September 22, 2009 (4 Tishri 5770)

 "Presented as Blameless!" Inline Image

   Jude 1:24  (Amplified Bible)     

   Now to Him Who is able to keep you without stumbling or slipping or falling, and to present [you] unblemished (blameless and faultless) before the presence of His glory in triumphant joy and exultation [with unspeakable, ecstatic delight]

     At the very core of God's heart, is the desire to receive many Sons and Daughters as blameless and spotless, brought into HIS Glorious Presence by Christ Jesus. With an unspeakable Joy and with shouts of Exultation and Praise, should our Testimony of HIS Grace, be flowing continuously from our lips.

     As Believers we are made Righteous in God's sight through Christ Jesus, born anew by Holy Spirit as new 'creations'. Our old sinful nature has been transformed by that same POWER of God, having raised Christ from the grave, to walk upright as servants of Mercy. No longer are Believers restrained from entering into the Holy Presence of God, because the veil that once separated us, was Eternally abolished by Jesus' death on Calvary's cross.

     Mere human understanding of this is impossible, as the 'eyes' of men's hearts are blinded to this revelation of Christ. It is only possible to receive this understanding, because God's Spirit has been appointed to reveal Truth, spiritual understanding by the renewing of our minds. To know and think like Christ, becoming heirs and joint-heirs of both Salvation and Inheritance of Eternal Life.

     Because Christ Jesus lives in the heart of a Believer, the Hope of Glory is realized and fulfilled in the spiritual realm of both heaven and earth. It is in the physical realm of earth that the Kingdom of God is to advance and flourish, because heaven, as Jesus stated is the everlasting realm of God's Majestic Glory and Holy Presence.

     Aligning the desires of our heart, to that of God's heart, means that as Believers, we are to Proclaim the Good News with such fervor and zeal, that those we encounter each day, realize their 'nakedness' in HIS sight, desiring intently to become as a Son or Daughter, adopted into the family of God through the POWERful WORK of HIS Spirit. Naturally born of water to die once, it is the dying to our flesh and Spiritually reborn by Holy Spirit that we have received the Promise of LIFE.

   O'Lord, YOUR WORD has unlocked the chains of bondage and slavery of my heart, that I will Declare with Praise and Thanksgiving. Send me forth as a minister of Truth, Proclaiming YOUR Grace and Mercy to those who stumble about in darkness. Drawn by YOUR Light, the 'eyes' of their heart will be opened to the realm of heaven, where YOU receive them with Love. Prepare me as a 'voice' crying out in the wilderness, 'The KING has come, and all that will bow their knee to HIM and confess that HE alone is Lord, will STAND forever in YOUR Holy Presence, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

 

Monday September 21, 2009 (3 Tishri 5770)

 "The Wealth of Wisdom!" Inline Image

   Colossians 2:10  (Amplified Bible)     

   And you are in Him, made full and having come to fullness of life [in Christ you too are filled with the Godhead--Father, Son and Holy Spirit--and reach full spiritual stature]. And He is the Head of all rule and authority [of every angelic principality and power].

    Paul's WORDs are a confirmation of the POWER and Authority that God gives to Believers, filling each with the Fullness of LIFE in Christ Jesus. The Triune GodHead of Father, Son and Holy Spirit exist as ONE spiritually in the life of a Believer, uniting every member of the Body under Christ Jesus, as HE is the HEAD, the ONE TRUE KING of the Kingdom of God. Believers grow in their spiritual understanding at different levels, each receiving the filling and baptism of God's Spirit for quidance into spiritual knowledge of the Gospel of Christ Jesus.

     Even these WORDs of the Apostle John tell us that John the Baptist was sent forth to announce the LORD's arrival, proclaiming this TRUTH about God's Holy Spirit,

John 1:33-34 (Amplified Bible) And I did not know Him nor recognize Him, but He Who sent me to baptize in (with) water said to me, 'Upon Him Whom you shall see the Spirit descend and remain, that One is He Who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen [that happen-- I actually did see it] and my testimony is that this is the Son of God!

     God's WORD says that none are able to confess Christ Jesus as God's Son, LORD of both heaven and earth, but that Holy Spirit reveals this TRUTH to them. Receiving this revelation through Holy Spirit, then becomes a Believer's TESTIMONY which will shake the world's carnal understanding of Riches and Wealth. TRUTH overturns the 'money tables' established by man, as God manifests POWER and Authority through Believers, where only the 'Silver and Gold' of HIS WORD stored deep within the vault of our hearts will endure HIS all consuming FIRE, blazing throughout the earth as it did on the Day of Pentecost.

   O'Lord, burn in me with the FIRE of YOUR Holy ONE, purifying my heart with YOUR WORDs of Wisdom. Lavish upon YOUR Bride, the adornments of YOUR Silver and Gold, from heaven's storehouse, Praises for our Lord upon our lips for all to hear. All Majesty and Honor belongs to YOU, that YOUR Covenant of Love be made known and manifested in fullness throughout the whole earth. YOUR endless Mercies are made new each and every day, and YOUR bountiful and matchless Grace restores LIFE to my heart. All I have need of is YOU, where in my life YOUR Spirit overflows my heart with Everlasting LOVE, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

 

Friday September 18, 2009 (29 Elul 5769)            Erev Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year's Eve)

 "Consumed by Holy FIRE!" Inline Image

     Luke 12:49 (Amplified Bible)     

   (Jesus speaking) I have come to cast fire upon the earth, and how I wish that it were already kindled!

    When awakened by the alarming sound of sirens wailing in the distance and billows of smoke spiraling skyward, we know this is a sure sign that something is 'on Fire'. Our minds instantly visualize the very fact that property could ultimately be destroyed or that a human life could be lost, FOREVER.

     As recorded by Luke, Christ Jesus DECLARES HIS mission of PASSION. God's Promised Holy Spirit is given to Believers, coming to inhabit tabernacles of flesh instead of stone temples, which God so deeply and lovingly desires to intimately dwell, the very heart of man.

     Whenever a FIRE breaks out, there is a source of FUEL from which the blaze began, generated by a spark which in turn IGNITES the available kindling.

     As a Believer in Christ, I must not only Confess Jesus as my Lord, but also be willing in my heart to be set 'On FIRE' by HIS Spirit. I too must be OBEDIENT in bringing others to HIM so they may also be totally consumed by God's Holy Fire, Holy Spirit burns unquenchably within my heart a passion for the lost. Refining me in every way, to be presented as a purified vessel, used effectively in HIS service.

   O'Lord, release from heaven YOUR purifying Fire, to burn within my heart, YOUR PASSION for souls. Engulf this generation of Believers, with Flames, an unquenched and raging furnace. No man's flesh can stand in YOUR Holy Presence, only those souls that have endured YOUR refining FIRE. I shout Praises to YOU my LORD, for YOUR Spirit is the Living Oil Refining Disciples, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Thursday September 17, 2009 (28 Elul 5769)

 "Valiant Servants of Virtue!" Inline Image

Colossians 3:16-17  (Amplified Bible)     

   Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts. And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.

    Of all the WORDs written, these capture the essence and identity of what Believers in Christ long for. To be purified vessels of Praise, living in both Unity with and Love for one another. A foreign reality to those who search for their individual significance in the things of this world. Unable to enjoy the True 'riches' that are found in Christ Jesus.

     As Paul sets forth to describe what the heart of a Believer should resemble, he is guided by God's Spirit to write in detail, how our actions are inheritantly derived from our attitude towards being Righteous and Holy in the eyes of our Lord. Whether in word or deed, we long to be effective witnesses of HIS Grace, lifting our voices in Adoration and Praise.

     Unlimited by our knowledge of God's election, our Spiritual maturity as Kingdom Warriors is likened to that of skilled and trained troops, advancing and overtaking the enemy at every juncture. Having our hearts and minds enriched with the Life giving transfusion of HIS Precious Blood, innoculated with God's Spirit, and Perfectly positioned to defeat the adversary of our soul.

     The spiritual realm of a Believer's heart, is the landscape of a sanctified territory Ruled and Reigned by the KING of kings, Christ Jesus our Savior and Redeemer. Holy Spirit reveals every detail of God's Plan and Pupose for our lives through the Person of HIS Son. In HIM, does every Believer have the Boldness and Confidence to approach HIS throne of Grace, seeking HIS Mercy, offering Praise and Thanksgiving for each and every Victory.

   O'Lord, teach me the depths of YOUR heart, those desires for my life that are pleasing and honoring to YOU. Direct me daily to reflect YOUR goodness, YOUR Glory that drives away the darkness, manifesting YOUR Power through me. My heart is so burdened for those who lack knowledge of YOUR Son, speak through my lips YOUR WORDs of Salvation and Life. Refine my heart with YOUR burning FIRE, for in my Praises to YOU, will my testimony be pleasing in YOUR sight,  Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday September 16, 2009 (27 Elul 5769)

 "Victory Preparation!" Inline Image

2 Corinthians 4:16-18  (Amplified Bible)     

   Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). Though our outer man is [progressively] decaying and wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day after day. For our light, momentary affliction (this slight distress of the passing hour) is ever more and more abundantly preparing and producing and achieving for us an everlasting weight of glory [beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!], Since we consider and look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are visible are temporal (brief and fleeting), but the things that are invisible are deathless and everlasting.

    Throughout most of Paul's letters we read of his sufferings for the Gospel of Christ. Facing monumental opposition and oppression, yet he courageously pressed on in Faith, considering that Eternity in God's Presence far outweighed his earthly and temporal circumstances. I am personally humbled at the depth of Paul's understanding of perseverance, enduring much as he did for the sake of Proclaiming Christ.

     God's WORD directs and guides me through those troublesome times of disappointment and discouragement, where my own Faith is deeply strengthened. Through each Victory I resolve to Honor the Lord with my Praise and Worship, for it is by HIS Spirit that I am being progressively prepared to experience the fullness of HIS Glorious Presence.

     Encouraged by Paul's reference to God's Preparation of my soul, it is to HIM alone that I am called to bear witness of, testifying of the Peace, Comfort and Joy which I possess as a Believer in Christ Jesus. A Provision that exceeds in abundance every need I have, many times God's Gracious hand has supplied more than what I have been able to fully comprehend.

     Remaining Faithful to God and HIS WORD, despite discouraging circumstances, is visible testimony that God's Spirit is POWERful and Progressively at WORK, guiding me into living Life Victoriously, both Eternal and Everlasting. Far from what my natural eyes may currently see, but in the spiritual realm which defies both carnal logic and reasoning, a boundary which does not exist in the Kingdom of God.

   O'Lord, YOUR Blessings to me are abundant indeed, and my heart desires to press forward with JOY. From my lips Honor and Praises to YOU must flow, for my soul is held captive by YOUR WORD. Visions of YOUR Majestic Glory overtake me. I must tell others of YOUR Everlasting Grace, of YOUR Mercy that triumphs Judgment and endures forever and ever. YOU, are my Deliverer and Redeemer, to YOU alone do all Praises belong, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday September 15, 2009 (26 Elul 5769)

 "Resemblance of LIFE!" Inline Image

   1 John 3:2 (Amplified Bible)     

   Beloved, we are [even here and] now God's children; it is not yet disclosed (made clear) what we shall be [hereafter], but we know that when He comes and is manifested, we shall [ as God's children] resemble and be like Him, for we shall see Him just as He [really] is.

    As a mother lovingly cradles her young child, the exhuberent father gazes at the miracle of Life, squirming and restless to the delight and joyous welcome of family and friends. Those who look upon the infant with compassion, love and wonder, openly comment on who the child looks most like. God's WORD says that every Believer must come to HIM as a little child. Being born as the new creature in Christ, we are of HIS likeness and image. Do those around us recognize a resemblance?

     Flesh of my flesh, and bone of my bone, was Adam's response to HIS heavenly Father for the provision of a help-mate, Eve. As evidenced by Creation, it is God's desire that mankind be fruitful. Producing offspring that will inhabit the earth and have dominion, serving as a reminder of HIS Plan and Purpose.

     Physical birth is no longer a mystery to man, a Creative WORK of God, yet it is spiritual birth which continues to be a mystery, unquestionable as a Divine WORK of God's Spirit. Evidenced by the Transformation of one's life, from the natural tendencies of self abasement to a Life molded and shaped by and through God's WORD, breathed into our hearts.

     As John writes to us of who we as Sons and Daughters of God are, he points out that we are to look with expectation to that which the Lord so lovingly Promises to those who have been born of HIS Spirit. No Believer's Hope should be diminished because of the 'unseen' things of God's Kingdom, but each must in Faith cling tightly to HIS Promise of unwavering Devotion to raising HIS children up to 'see' those things which the Apostle Peter says, even the angels of heaven long to look upon.

     This Gospel of Salvation, God's Provision of HIS Son born 2000 years ago as a man, anointed by HIS Spirit and Resurrected by that same Power, to be the FirstFruit of Righteousness and Everlasting Life. Every Believer born of God's Spirit portays a resemblance to Christ Jesus. Having Compassion and Love for family and friends, who but for a season must look upon us as dead to our flesh, living only to Honor and Glorify our Father in heaven who gave us LIFE by HIS Spirit.

   O'Lord, as YOU Manifest YOUR Glory in the lives of YOUR children, may YOUR Sons and Daughters radiate Love and Compassion for others. Our hearts yearn to be Complete and Powerful Witnesses of Truth, living in Obedience to YOUR WORD. Pour out of YOUR Storehouse an increased measure of Anointing and Favor upon us, that we Proclaim YOUR Vision of Hope and Life with such Devotion to them. Release an Abundant and Overflowing impartation of YOUR Presence within us as we minister each day to those around us. Grant us Wisdom as we Faithfully Declare YOU as Savior and Lord over heaven and earth. To YOU be all Praise and Honor, for YOU alone are our Father and King of Everlasting Glory, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Monday September 14, 2009 (25 Elul 5769)

 "Fullness of Spirit!" Inline Image

   Romans 8:4 (Amplified Bible)     

   So that the righteous and just requirement of the Law might be fully met in us who live and move not in the ways of the flesh but in the ways of the Spirit [our lives governed not by the standards and according to the dictates of the flesh, but controlled by the Holy Spirit].

     Here Paul writes of meeting the requirements of God's Law, yet it is only by complete submission to God's Spirit are we able to fulfill God's intent of that same Law. The early Believers were genuinely concerned that God's Law be strictly kept in every way, especially with regards to the 'ways of the flesh' that are at enmity with the Spirit of God.

     Christ came fulfilling God's Law, saying that not one 'jot or tittle' would fade away, revealing to us of God's desire for our stern 'Obedience' to each and every WORD. As Believers in Christ, we are 'hidden' in HIM, where our faults and failures, as were those of Paul, Peter and John, are covered by HIS Precious Blood.

      My own deepest desire is to be 'Full of HIS Spirit', where HIS LOVE manifests through me that 'Power' by which I 'live, move and breathe'. Having God's LOVE, is what Christ Jesus said those of the world would recognize that we belong to HIM, by knowing HIM, the actions of our flesh reflect the condition of our heart, bringing Glory and Honor to HIM.

     God did in my 'flesh' by HIS Spirit, what I could not do, 'OverPOWER' my sinful nature and infuse my heart with HIS 'Life', both Eternal and Everlasting.

   O'Lord, YOU brought me from the brink of death, that in YOU my life would have meaning and purpose. Through YOUR Spirit of 'Power and Love', every move I make, I make in YOU. My soul has been given 'New Life' in YOUR Son, and my heart given a 'New Song' to sing of YOUR Love. 'River of Life' that flows as blood through my veins, quenching my thirst and filling my days with Joy and Peace. YOU, alive in me, Power to LIVE for YOU, my Lord, and my God,  Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Friday September 11, 2009 (22 Elul 5769)

 "Paradigm of Unity!" Inline Image

   1 Corinthians 1:10 (Amplified Bible)     

   But I urge and entreat you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in perfect harmony and full agreement in what you say, and that there be no dissensions or factions or divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in your common understanding and in your opinions and judgments.

     Jesus spoke many times warning of it, Peter and the 120 who were assembled together at Pentecost were a visible contrast to it and Paul wrote decisively against it to those 1st century churches who were involved in it. Of those who participate in division, according to God's WORD, will be held accountable for the damage to the Unity it causes.

     Are we as members of the Body of Christ more interested in standing our 'ground', especially when it comes to promoting an image of correctness, even when it divides us as opposed to drawing us closer and deeper in fellowship? One opposes this, another promotes that, equally deepening the chasm which Christ Jesus died and rose again to bridge.

     For those who submit to God's Spirit in the Unity and Bond of Love, each are being steered in their hearts towards reflecting the same image of community, as did those 1st Disciples and Apostles. Soon to experience a dimension that parallels what Christ Jesus prayed for to the Father.

John 17:11 (Amplified Bible) And [now] I am no more in the world, but these are [still] in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, keep in Your Name [ in the knowledge of Yourself] those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We [are one].

     This Unity which Christ speaks of, is impossible from the standpoint of carnal attainment, yet by HIS Spirit, are Believers drawn into the spectrum of One-ness, that Jesus prophesied would integrate those who walk each day completely by Faith in the Light of God's WORD.    

   O'Lord, draw me deeper into the depths of YOUR Love, that I might be a reflection of YOUR Grace and Mercy. YOU have reserved Judgement in the hands of YOUR Son, and I am driven to Proclaim that Redemption is found only in HIM. Broaden my vision in the realm of YOUR Spirit, to see the vast expanse of YOUR Kingdom, and to reflect the brightness of YOUR Glory. May YOUR Majesty and Splendor be fully revealed in my life, as one who has been transformed by YOUR Spirit of Power, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Thursday September 10, 2009 (21 Elul 5769)

 "Servants of Holy Fire!" Inline Image

   Hebrews 1:7-9 (Amplified Bible)     

   Referring to the angels He says, [God] Who makes His angels winds and His ministering servants flames of fire; But as to the Son, He says to Him, Your throne, O God, is forever and ever (to the ages of the ages), and the scepter of Your kingdom is a scepter of absolute righteousness (of justice and straightforwardness). You have loved righteousness [You have delighted in integrity, virtue, and uprightness in purpose, thought, and action] and You have hated lawlessness (injustice and iniquity). Therefore God, [even] Your God (Godhead), has anointed You with the oil of exultant joy and gladness above and beyond Your companions.

    God's WORD urges those who Believe in HIS Son Christ Jesus to spread the Good News of HIS Kingdom, anointing them with an everlasting source, 'the Oil of Joy and Gladness'. Much like a Fire which consumes everything in it's path, Holy Spirit comes with an assignment from God, a burning desire within and as a refiner of the hearts of those who delight in HIS Righteousness, seeking only 1 thing, to fulfill HIS Purpose throughout the earth.

     Generations of 'Servants' have been dispatched under HIS Commission, having been chosen as an acceptable 'Burnt Offering', an aroma carried upon the 'Winds' and reaches into the very Presence of God in heaven.

Isaiah 61:3 (Amplified Bible) To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion--to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit--that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.

     As we begin to excersize our Faith, guided by these WORDs spoken by the Prophet Isaiah, it will be from these 'Ashes' that God will display HIS 'Beauty and Splendor'. This 'Lord's Generation' must be Faithful to Proclaim 'The Glory of God', ushering into the earth the revelation of Christ as the 'Triumphant' King who will return, bearing HIS 'Scepter of Righteousness' which will divide those found to be Holy from among those who have rejected HIS Name.

   O'Lord, YOUR Holy Fire within my bones, drives out the dreaded chill of death. YOUR angels forever Praise in heaven above, serving as a Wind carrying YOUR Gospel of Truth. YOUR Glory will Reign over every heart that has chosen YOU as Savior and King. As YOUR WORD and Spirit brings Life and Salvation, YOU also bring Judgement upon the unrepentant. I chose to be a 'Burnt Offering', consecrated and purified by YOUR Holy Fire, a messenger of YOUR Grace to all, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday September 9, 2009 (20 Elul 5769)

 "Spiritual Warriors for Christ!" Inline Image

   1 Corinthians 2:10 (Amplified Bible)     

   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].

     Every Believer in Christ must begin seeing themselves as 'Warriors of a Royal Kingdom', each receiving their Spiritual Training from God's Noble Authority, Holy Spirit.

    Paul declares this revelation as to God's Battle Plan, both Knowledge and Power to them who accept and receive Christ Jesus as both Savior and Lord, but remains as a mystery to those who are enemies of the Cross and of it's message of Eternal Victory.

     Throughout God's WORD, countless references point to the ongoing spiritual warfare in the earth. Once our eyes have been opened to the Truth, we are commanded to thwart the enemy's plan to kill, steal and destroy, through prayer and spiritual warfare. Faithful and Obedient to pray unceasingly for our family members and others, as full-time intercessors. 

     Not one single Believer should ever consider themselves in the 'Reserves', but should 'March Onward' as Warriors of the Living Gospel. Proclaiming the Victory attained through Christ Jesus, to those long held in oppressive chains of bondage, Declaring Spiritual Freedom as the Battle Song of a King and High Priest who Reigns with Love, administering HIS Grace to the Faithful and Judgement upon the wicked and unrepentant.

   O'Lord, YOUR Spirit has opened my ears to the sound, of the Battle that wages against the souls of men. A WAR Cry that strikes fear in the ranks of the evil one, delivering the prisoners from YOUR enemy's deadly grip. Powered by Holy Spirit to demolish every stronghold, with Strength and Resolve to fight the Good Fight of Faith. As YOUR Warriors and Knights march fearlessly into war, taking back every possession that was stolen, declaring the Good News of Freedom and Salvation to every nation and people of the earth. All Dominion and Rule belongs to YOU, O'Lord. YOU strengthen my heart each day with WORDs of Victory, Amen


'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday September 8, 2009 (19 Elul 5769)

 "NOW Understanding!" Inline Image

   John 13:7 (Amplified Bible)     

   Jesus said to him, You do not understand now what I am doing, but you will understand later on.

    A time comes whenever our understanding is opened to certain things written in God's WORD, much like it was later for Peter, after Jesus washed his and the other disciple's feet before they ate of the Passover meal.

     God's Spirit continued teaching these disciples of their appointment to serve others through this example, long after Jesus' death, resurrection and ascension had taken place.

      In learning from Jesus the spiritual meaning of what HIS last earthly observance of the Passover meal means to Believers, not only did HIS disciples proceed in fulfilling their individual assignments, but they also became Bold messengers of the Love that their Master had for them, having witnessed for themselves this selfless act of LOVE.

     Many times it seems much easier to complicate a simple interpretation of God's Love, when drawing an analytical or ritualistic conclusion would only tend to separate the action from the effects, thus nullifying the meaning altogether.

     God's Spirit is given for the exhortation, teaching and training of Believers, each vital for the mind and body, but it is for our soul that Christ Jesus spared not HIS own Life that we might be welcomed into the Kingdom of God.

     The message of Truth as recorded in God's WORD, becomes the Light which guides our feet as we travel throughout the earth, HIS Gospel of Salvation and Peace, relevant and timely as this generation comes each day even closer to HIS return.

  O'Lord, have YOUR way within my heart, teach me YOUR Love that serves others. May my feet travel the road that leads to YOU, turning neither to the right nor the left. May others be drawn by YOUR Light to find Truth, taught to live with purpose by YOUR Spirit. A Day is Coming when at YOUR feet, every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that YOU are Lord. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Friday September 4, 2009 (15 Elul 5769)

 "A Higher Realm!" Inline Image

   Ephesians 1:11-12 (Amplified Bible)     

   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, 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! 

    As Paul begins to explain the heritage and inheritance which Believers have received in Christ Jesus, we must first look back a few verses, to gain some deeper understanding of the spiritual blessings of living in a realm far above that of what our mortal bodies endure. Believers are seated with Christ in this heavenly realm, while we await the transition Paul writes of.

God's Spirit began a WORK in each Believer, when we put our complete Faith and Trust in Christ, fully knowing of HIS sacrifice at Calvary, to atone for our sin. Yet, the ongoing WORK of Holy Spirit, continues as well to transform our hearts, bearing each of us up, into a realm that is higher. This is an illustration of our hunger to become more Christ-like, submitting the desires of our heart(flesh) to the circumcision of Holy Spirit. No longer will our heart look to those things which appeal to our flesh, as we look longingly upward to those spiritual things which draw us upward.

Although Paul explains that conflict and oppression continues to exist in the natural realm, our hearts are filled with excitement and expectation regarding the reality of our future as Believers. Adopted as sons and daughters, we were foreordained before the foundation of the world, to share in the inheritance, where blessings are not limited only to the realm of the Spirit.

Growing in maturity in Christ, a measure of fullness and stature of Christ-likeness, our actions and testimonies begin to increasingly reflect our knowledge and understanding of Faith. Where HE beckons us to 'Come up here!', our desire to respond is met with Counsel and Revelation through Holy Spirit, as we are blessed with deeper spiritual Truths, leading us to live as Powerful witnesses. Having had the 'eyes' of our hearts opened by HIS Spirit, we are then able to more clearly see the Inheritance we have, Obedient to respond with Boldness by Delcaring that the Kingdom of God is at hand, existing even now as HIS Blessing and Favor is evident within our lives.

  O'Lord, in Obedience I respond to YOUR Spirit, to Proclaim YOUR Grace and Mercy. Given Power by YOUR Spirit to speak of the Light that floods my heart. My eyes are now able to behold, YOUR Glorious Provision of Life through YOUR Son Christ Jesus. To YOU be all Glory, Honor and Praise. Raise me up to a higher plane, for I desire to be a Faithful witness for YOU. Telling others of the Inheritance that is afforded them, as they put their complete Hope and Trust in Christ. Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Wednesday September 2, 2009 (13 Elul 5769)

 "Valuable Information!" Inline Image

   Acts 20:32 (Amplified Bible)     

   And now [brethren], I commit you to God [I deposit you in His charge, entrusting you to His protection and care]. And I commend you to the Word of His grace [to the commands and counsels and promises of His unmerited favor]. It is able to build you up and to give you [your rightful] inheritance among all God's set-apart ones (those consecrated, purified, and transformed of soul).

    Luke and others traveled with Paul on those early missionary journeys, going to places where people had never heard the Gospel of Christ, HIS message of Salvation, Hope and Eternal Life. What Joy must have filled the hearts of those who, for the first time heard God's WORD, as told from such a Faithful messenger as Paul, who himself had been 'transformed of soul'.

     A message which clearly changed Paul's life, and his outlook on the things which are of Eternal consequence. I must say that I am amazed and in awe at the number of Promises in God's WORD which deal with everyday life and the many situations that I find myself in. Yet, who knows better about my life, and how I must live, than my Creator, my Lord and my Savior, whom I have placed my Trust and Hope in, for it will be how Faithful I am in this life, living to please God, for that is what HE desires for me.

     God's WORD is LIFE, that in itself is cause for me to cling to each and every WORD, much like each breath of air that I breathe, it has to be the source of my existence, much like it was for Paul, Luke and the others that traveled preaching and teaching about the Messiah, Christ Jesus. Life must be more about the TRUTH, and my God who holds me so tightly in HIS Loving hands, that I can almost feel and hear HIS breath. Where death has been conquered by Christ, no more to hold me or any other Believer captive. It is living a life hidden in Christ, that the Peace and Promises of God are realized.

  O'Lord, show me the depths of YOUR heart, as I am surrounded by YOUR Presence. Guide me by Holy Spirit, manifesting every Promise given by YOUR WORD. All else will fail, but YOUR WORD will endure forever. Teach me YOUR Ways and judge the attitude of my heart. May my labors be forever fruitful, declaring YOUR message of Salvation and Truth. YOU are the Life which every hungry soul desires. YOUR Kingdom must advance, flourish and increase throughout the earth, as YOUR Faithful messengers Proclaim Christ Jesus to every nation, Amen

'A Warrior's Daily Journal'

Tuesday September 1, 2009 (12 Elul 5769)

 "Obedient Faith!" Inline Image

   James 2:26 (Amplified Bible)     

   For as the human body apart from the spirit is lifeless, so faith apart from [its] works of obedience is also dead.

    Believers have been set apart for Kingdom WORK by God, given Life by Holy Spirit, to accomplish mighty things through Obedience to the Faith which we have in Christ. Humans, in and of ourselves, are frail vessels, without the ability to fully comprehend what can and will be accomplished, simply because many resist submitting to God's Spirit. Imagine yourself accomplishing just a portion of the miraculous feats of Faith, as described in the Book of Acts. Those men and women were Powerfully transformed by Holy Spirit, altered eternally through and through, for a Purpose that completely fulfilled God's Will for their existence.

     Those apostles and disciples understood, through the revelation of God's Spirit, their role as ambassadors and servants of a mighty God. Where by the excersize of their Faith in Christ, the world would come to know the Truth, and be set free from the confines of physical death and the possibility of eternal separation from HIS Glorious Presence.

     Rejection and resistance to God's Will, began in the days of Adam, and sadly continues to this day. Any life that is lived apart from the Divine Plan of Communion and Fellowship with God, is a life empty and wasted. Life, as defined by man is shallow in it's definition, whether it be from conception to one's first breath outside the womb, yet God defines Life as eternal, without beginning and having no end. For HE says we are known before we were in our mother's womb. So it is also with man's definition of death, where breathing their last breath is the end, just before crossing that threshold of what seems an unknown realm, yet God has revealed through HIS WORD of an eternity that exists infinitely after our eyes close and our heart stops beating.

     One's Obedience to the Will of God derives from their Faith in Christ, leading them down the pathway of Righteousness. Human efforts to accomplish God's Purpose wreaks with a stench of religious rituals, but a Spirit led heart which seeks all that God has for them, is the fragrant aroma of an intimate relationship through Christ Jesus. For our Faith as Believers, must be both that of Obedient WORKs as well as a Testimony of God's Power to transform the dead and lifeless, into an eternal habitation of HIS Glory.

  O'Lord, YOU are my sustaining Love, I am nothing without YOU. Because YOUR Spirit is Life, I now live and breathe to please YOU and do YOUR Perfect Will as an Obedient son. My soul longs for YOU, and my heart burns with passion for a deeper and more intense relationship with YOU. My Faith is strengthened each day, as I Obediently submit to YOUR Spirit. In and through me, manifest every fruit of Obedience, for that is YOUR good pleasure. Amen


Sharing this FirePOWER! Devotional with your family and friends, will have an impact upon their lives. This generation deserves to hear the message of God's Kingdom, knowing that Christ Jesus loves them and desires that they know HIM. 

 Romans 10:15
    And how can men [be expected to] preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who bring glad tidings! [How welcome is the coming of those who preach the good news of His good things!] (Amplified Bible)


The Vision of The Agape Letters Ministry is to Equip, Exhort and Inspire Believers to become Victorious Spiritual Warriors of Christ Jesus. Training them to Boldly and Courageously Advance the Kingdom WORK of God, recognizing the FirePOWER available to them under the anointing and presence of Holy Spirit within their lives. Encouraging them to Walk by Faith, fulfilling the mandate of Proclaiming the Gospel as Ambassadors of Christ throughout every nation upon the earth.
 
For HIS Glory,
Jake Tribble
 
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