FirePOWER!     'Spiritual FUEL for the Soul'            The Agape Letters Ministry Newsletter | About us |  Archives |  Events | Devotional |  Prayer |  Proverbs | Photos | SEARCH | Trivia | Monday August 29, 2011  (29th of Av, 5771)             "An Ongoing WORK!"        Acts 19:20 (Amplified Bible)  "Thus the Word of  the Lord [concerning the attainment through Christ of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God] grew and spread and intensified, prevailing mightily."      The Gospel of Christ and the WORK assigned to Believers as recorded in God's WORD has continued to grow and spread for over 2000 years, and God's WORD has been both a guideline and an outline for the Body of Christ, where members are unified in accomplishing the Purpose and Will of God upon the earth. The Dispensation of Holy Spirit at Pentecost, is the Impartation and Manifestation of HIS Authority and Power in the lives of Believers, and must be recognized today as the Ongoing WORK in and through us effectively accomplishing God's Eternal Plan of Redemption for man's soul.      Denying this TRUTH in God's WORD is likened to unbelief , for it is the desire of our heavenly Father that HIS Kingdom be established with Sovereign Rule and Reign and must be accounted for as a Spiritual WORK in the lives of Believers rather than looked upon as a work of certain men's flesh, having ended with the physical deaths of the Apostles.      The Church is commanded to Obediently follow the examples of the 1st century Apostles, and the WORK of God's Spirit will continue as the Prevailing POWER behind continuous Kingdom Growth. The HIStory of the Church in the 21st Century is also an Expedient and ONGOING WORK until Christ returns, and it to must be recorded and preserved for those who continue the Plan and Purpose which God has beforehand ordained for those who follow Jesus.      Believers must cooperate along this Truth, as the New Testament is an outline of how God desires HIS people to live and advance the Gospel of Christ to every ear that will heed HIS Voice. Confession is made unto Repentance, and God's WORD is much, much more than anything that the carnal mind of man can comprehend, therefore HE gives HIS Holy Spirit for revealing HIS Glory to this world, and Believers filled with HIS Spirit must advance forcefully with courage and determination, pressing forward against the kingdom of darkness.      The WORK of the Church will be finished when a shout from heaven declares, 'Time is No More!' and Christ Jesus our Lord returns as Triumphant King.      O'Lord, YOUR Spirit is both Authority and Power, given to those who call upon YOU as Lord and Savior. Testimony of YOUR Grace must be declared every day, that none should be lost but find YOUR Way. Direct me as I labor in YOUR fields white with harvest, in unity with others determined to Honor and Glorify YOU. The Reign of YOUR Spirit Rules YOUR Kingdom, and I desire to be a Bold Citizen and Faithful Servant. Thanks and Praise to YOUR Holy Name Forever,,,, Amen Thursday August 25, 2011  (25th of Av, 5771)                   "United 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. Having ONE purpose directed 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, being 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, HIS Church of it's full potential. Incapable of fulfilling neither the Calling or 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 of the Faithful which God is building.      Given that our hands administer God's Mercy yet seem disjointed from HIS arms of Love, benefiting 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 Wednesday August 24, 2011  (24th of Av, 5771)             "An Irrevocable Trust!"         1 John 1:8-10 (Amplified Bible)  "If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude and lead ourselves astray, and the Truth [which the Gospel presents] is not in us [does not dwell in our hearts]. If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action]. If we say (claim) we have not sinned, we contradict His Word and make Him out to be false and a liar, and His Word is not in us [the divine message of the Gospel is not in our hearts]."      As John writes this, we begin to better understand our need to be forgiven, released from the agony and bondage that is associated with the guilt of our transgressions. This conviction of our need for a Redeemer is brought to our attention by Holy Spirit, and by this same conviction, we humbly seek Restoration through Christ Jesus and HIS Precious Blood, poured out in Love upon Calvary's cross. For one to say that they have not sinned, is akin to saying Christ is a liar, but as John states, that was and will never be Truth, for HE is TRUTH, both Absolute and Eternal. The darkness which John speaks of, hides this Truth from our hearts, keeping us from knowing and receiving God's Grace.      Holy Spirit counsels us as Believers, opening our eyes to our need for God's forgiveness. Trusting that God alone can and will forgive us of our sin, as we are Faithful to Confess them and Repent, turn away from them and through HIS POWER never again repeat. No longer a yearly ritual of seeking God behind a veil, but because we have HIS Promise that we can approach HIM through Christ, we have this Trust, an Assurance that we can and will be forgiven of that which once alienated us from HIM.      What John explains, is that this Promise is an 'Irrevocable Trust', continuously available to all who will respond to the message of Truth, Forgiveness and Redemption. It is this Gospel that gives us a glimpse of the Kingdom of God, where HE Reigns in Power, fully able to validate our Inheritance, a Trust that provides Eternal Life in HIS Glorious Presence as the reward for our Obedience to HIS Will.      O'Lord, my lips Proclaim YOUR Love for my soul, that YOU would forgive me and give me Liberty and Life. Redeemed through YOUR Precious Blood, I will tell others of YOUR Grace so free. I will Declare YOUR Mercy, Eternal and Sovereign, my Redeemer, Savior and King, Amen Tuesday August 23, 2011  (23rd of Av, 5771)                 "Cheerful Warriors!"            Colossians 2:2 (Amplified Bible)  "[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)."      Paul, a 'Champion of Faith', listened to God's 'Voice of Cheer', being 'Encouraged' to press forward in 'Victory'. He gained from Holy Spirit a complete understanding of the 'Fullness' of those 'Heavenly Riches' in Christ Jesus. As Believers in Christ, that same Holy Spirit fills our hearts with 'Comfort and Cheer', steering us gently on in our quest for 'Triumph' against every foe.      Listening to God's Spirit, whose 'Shouts' of Encouragement and Inspiration, bring Strength and Determination, in each day's battle against the darkness which has unsuccessfully blinded our hearts to the TRUTH of God's Love. The 'Reward' which Paul mentions, cannot measured by any of the standards of the world, for here there is no understanding of 'the mystery of God', rather we must measure everything by the 'Kingdom Ruler'.      Whenever someone's heart is 'UNITED' with Christ, it is through Faith in HIM that God chooses to 'Reward' them with the 'immeasurable riches' of 'Knowledge and Understanding'. The 'mystery' of God, HIS Son Jesus, is no longer 'shrouded or veiled' from us, but HE is 'REVEALED' to us by Holy Spirit, making every Believer a 'Champion of Faith'.      My desire as was Paul's, is to be a Bold and Courageous Warrior in the Kingdom of God, battling the day to day spiritual attacks of the enemy, that continuously rage in the lives of others, where their 'SOUL' hangs so delicately in the balance, between 'VICTORY' or death. We have been commissioned as Disciples to share HOPE with the hopeless, a Life giving message of Salvation from destruction.      O'LORD, YOUR Spirit cheers me on towards VICTORY, it is YOUR WORD that calls to my heart. For it is YOUR Power and Love that Triumphs over the darkness which the enemy uses to hide YOUR TRUTH and LIGHT from those who are lost. Use me O'Lord, as YOUR 'VOICE' here on the earth, as I shout, 'Victory' in the Powerful Name of Jesus', YOUR Salvation is so sweet and the 'Riches' of heaven await all who 'Chase after YOU'. YOUR Name is Holy, Righteous and TRUE, there is none other like YOU in all of heaven or in the earth, Amen Monday August 22, 2011  (22nd of Av, 5771)              "On the street called Straight!"          Acts 9:10-12 (Amplified Bible)  "Now there was in Damascus a disciple named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, Ananias. And he answered, Here am I, Lord. And the Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight and ask at the house of Judas for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying [there]. And he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias enter and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight."      Luke records in detail, Saul and his Life changing encounter with Christ, and yet many today question the authenticity of such a miraculous event. An event so profound, that centuries later we refer to this encounter with such Passion as a beginning of a ministry that has reached millions of souls for the Kingdom of God.      Certainly, the Lord moves in ways that far exceed my understanding, for it is found in HIS WORD, that HIS Thoughts and Ways are above mine, and I must seek to know and live according to them. To question how the Lord gains an audience with our heart, may well be a point for another day, but nonetheless, it is here that we see some things about HIS Ways and Thoughts.      Although not every Believer has a Testimony quite the equal to that of Paul the Apostle, yet the same outcome bears a Witness that none should question. For they too neither fully comprehend the Ways and Thoughts of God, as HE is Sovereign, and has no need to confer with another. What transpires before and after the encounter, is certainly the Lord's decision, as that too is far beyond man's understanding and not open for discussion or challenge.      As a point of reference, it was 'rules and rulers', that placed Saul in the position of being 'blinded', although that is a representation of the heart condition, much like the image portrayed of baptism. What can not be seen by the human eye, can only be seen by the same Spirit of God that opens the eyes, ears and hearts of sinful men to Truth.      Lest any should be found guilty of diminishing the Purification and Sanctification of both the Blood of Christ Jesus and the Divine counsel of Holy Spirit as was Saul, there would be no need to further seek a knowing of the Thoughts and Ways of the Lord for obtaining one's Freedom in the very sight of a Holy and Righteous God.      O'Lord, open the eyes and ears of my heart to YOUR Thoughts and Ways which lead me to know YOUR Heart. Counsel me through the revealing of YOUR WORD by Holy Spirit, that in my heart, will I know YOUR Will. Move me each day along the pathway called Straight, that I might please YOU. Purify me thoroughly with YOUR Holy Fire, and present YOUR servant blameless to the Glory and Honor of YOUR Son, Christ Jesus, my Savior and King, Amen Friday August 19, 2011  (19th of Av, 5771)            "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]."      As Believers in Christ, we must be Obedient in asking our LORD for forgiveness for ourselves, yet we may find it difficult if not impossible 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 Overflowing Compassion, 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 Christ Jesus, by our possessing this same Love which Paul speaks of, for we now are a reflection of HIS Love towards them throughout the whole 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 Thursday August 18, 2011  (18th of Av, 5771)                   "In Defense of Love!"           Acts 24:14-16 (Amplified Bible) "But this I confess to you, however, that in accordance with the Way [of the Lord], which they call a [heretical, division-producing] sect, I worship (serve) the God of our fathers, still persuaded of the truth of and believing in and placing full confidence in everything laid down in the Law [of Moses] or written in the prophets; Having [the same] hope in God which these themselves hold and look for, that there is to be a resurrection both of the righteous and the unrighteous (the just and the unjust). Therefore I always exercise and discipline myself [mortifying my body, deadening my carnal affections, bodily appetites, and worldly desires, endeavoring in all respects] to have a clear (unshaken, blameless) conscience, void of offense toward God and toward men."      Trained as a Pharisee, Paul was quite capable of defending his Faith and Hope in Christ, offering extensive and compelling testimony of his own personal knowledge to the validity of God's provision of Salvation through HIS Son, proven both by the Law and the Prophets.      Now some 2000 years later, each of us as Believers in Christ must both, live our lives as one sanctified by Faith and by our confession based on the Truth and the Eternal Hope, being a courageous witness such as was Paul, to the Truth of God before all men.      A compelling and convincing testimony of God's Son, HIS provision for the forgiveness of my sin, and the blessed assurance of Eternal Life by HIS Resurrection. This constitutes the full essence of God's revelation to the Prophets, and to Believers of today, who counseled by HIS Spirit will Honor HIM with their testimony.      I personally plead my case, that I would be found guilty of all charges against me, knowing that by my speaking just one sentence in defense of Christ as my Savior and Lord, that it would result in bringing conviction by Holy Spirit upon the hearts and minds of many who are in need HIS redeeming Love.      O'Lord, place YOUR WORDs upon my lips, of YOUR Truth, by the Power of Holy Spirit. Give me increasing strength each day, to stand and face every trial. I plead before men of this present age, my full confession of Faith and Hope in Christ. Grant me O'Lord, a courtroom filled with souls, longing to hear YOUR Truth, so that their ears may hear my testimony which will be pleasing to YOU. Where their eyes will behold YOUR Glory and Majesty, and their heart quickened by the evidence. YOU neither fail nor waver, YOU never change nor leave me alone in the midst of my trials, Everlasting and Forever, YOU are my Savior and Lord, Amen Wednesday August 17, 2011  (17th of Av, 5771)            "Zealous Tongues of Passion!"        Luke 1:64 (Amplified Bible) "And at once his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he began to speak, blessing and praising and thanking God."      How Blessed are those who give Praise and Thanks to God. Their lips confessing with Joy HIS Holiness and Righteousness, Declaring Grace and Mercy to those who so desperately search for meaning and purpose in their lives. We must desire to share the Good News with 'tongues of FIRE'. This should be a portrait of every Believer in Christ, our hearts opened to the Truth, our lips loosed to freely Exalt and Magnify the Name of our Lord.      A miracle in itself, where our stony hearts have been transformed into hearts of Passion. Zealous in our Proclamation of Christ as Savior and King, made known to us through Obedient men like Luke, John, Peter and Paul. We must aggressively pursue every opportunity to speak of all that Holy Spirit has revealed to us. It is our Testimony of God's Love that reaches into the remote lands of the earth, into the depths of men's stony hearts with voices of Hope which communicate LIFE and Victory through Christ Jesus.      Our confession should never cease, night and day should we be singing Praises. Giving Thanks to God continually for HIS boundless affections. Of all the conversations we engage in every day, this message of Peace and Love should take precedence over everything else. Having an intimate relationship with our heavenly Father through Christ, is the beginning of an Eternity of Praise and Worship. Never ceasing to cry, Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord, who is worthy to receive Glory, Honor and Praise.      With our tongues we speak of our Lord, who ransomed our souls from despair. Raised us with HIM, seated us in heavenly places, very the Presence of our heavenly Father. What more exciting than to share that we have received an Inheritance as adopted sons and daughters. Joint heirs of the Glory and Majesty of our King who reigns triumphantly over our lives.      O'Lord, I will Bless YOUR Holy Name and YOUR WORDs will be continually in my mouth. In this hour are many who long for Peace, hungry and thirsty hearts that are starving for Love. YOU have opened my ears to hear YOUR voice, WORDs of Life that Comfort my soul. Direct my feet to travel the highways and byways, sharing YOUR invitation become part of YOUR family. Surround me with that 'Flaming FIRE', for it's LIGHT leads men from darkness into the Glorious Kingdom of YOUR Holy Son Christ Jesus. In HIS Name I pray, YOUR Good Pleasure is having YOUR Will done on earth as it is in heaven... Amen Tuesday August 16, 2011  (16th of Av, 5771)               "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 opposite of the desperation 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. I hunger and thirst after HIS Righteousness, nourished daily by God's Spirit filling my soul with Joy and Peace unequaled by anything of the world.      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 Samaritan 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 Monday August 15, 2011  (15th of Av, 5771)               "Radiant Beauty!"         Hebrews 10:16 (Amplified Bible) "This is the agreement (testament, covenant) that I will set up and conclude with them after those days, says the Lord: I will imprint My laws upon their hearts, and I will inscribe them on their minds (on their inmost thoughts and understanding),"      Jehovah Nissi, just one of the many names for our God, has provided us as Believers with an outline of HIS nature through the infalliable written WORD(Logos). HIS ultimate desire through the person of Holy Spirit, is to fill us with precious "Oil", as HE "paints" upon our hearts, the depths of HIS Love with strokes of Passion and Zeal. This 'finishing' WORK of Holy Spirit(Rhema), is HIS handiwork, a "Portrait" of the family of God, on display within the earth.      Believers in Christ are Sons and Daughters, recreated in the image and likeness of Jesus, anointed and destined as instruments of "Warfare and Worship". This portrait, I believe is a Living picture of who we must become, as we submit to Holy Spirit, and are applied to the "canvas of LIFE".       Every fiber of our being, body, soul and spirit, should be so intertwined "as a three stranded cord not easily broken", that those who have no knowledge of God and HIS Love, would be drawn to HIM by the LIGHT radiating from within us. For God has transformed us from within by Holy Spirit, from 'ashes' into this Beautiful and Radiant image of HIS Son Christ Jesus.      All that we desire to be, must be within the outline of HOPE that is provided in God's WORD. As it is written indelibly upon our hearts by the very Hand of God, we are being perfected each day as "Portraits of POWER", visibly on display for others to view. May each of us be a pleasing portrait, Honoring our Lord with every area of our lives, for we have been called as "Kings and Priest unto our God", administrators and servants of HIS Glory throughout the remainder of our days on earth...      O'Lord, as I submit my heart to YOU, continue to reveal YOUR Love through Holy Spirit. Stir up within me those embers of Passion, that Zeal that burns night and day for YOU to be Exalted above everything else. Direct me in YOUR Ways, guide my footsteps upon YOUR path of Righteousness. For my lips will forever Declare YOUR Holiness, write upon my heart YOUR Precious WORDs of LIFE. Overflowing with Authority and Power, send me forth into the hedges and highways, for YOU desire that none perish, but come to the Cross and find Peace for their broken and weary souls. To YOU be all Glory, Honor and Praise... AMEN Friday August 12, 2011  (12th of Av, 5771)            "Adorning the Bride's Heart!"            1 Peter 3:4 (Amplified Bible)  "But let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which [is not anxious or wrought up, but] is very precious in the sight of God."      As Peter wrote these WORDs, he was sharing an Understanding of a Believer's heart, one that is adorned with God's Spirit of Gentleness and Peace. God's WORD tells us that Christ Jesus was tempted by every form of evil that is common to man, yet HE remained Faithful and Obedient to HIS mission, fulfilling the purpose for which HE came to earth. Jesus, being that one and only sacrifice found to be worthy and acceptable in God's sight, whereby through HIS death and resurrection, all might have know HIS Provision of Salvation, Abundance of Life and receive God's Promised Holy Spirit for guidance and further instruction in our daily lives.      That Peace, Gentleness and Love we have received, are spiritual adornments which we must desire most from HIM, them being a portion of HIS Gifts through HIS Spirit. As Peter and the other disciples walked alongside the King of Glory, it was not until later did he and the others receive God's Spirit as evidence of their transformation. Then they fully understood Christ' mission and the purpose HE desired to accomplish in and through their lives.       Every Believer has been Promised by God, that each would receive HIS Spirit as our Source of Power and Life, being lavished with those very same Gifts of 'Spiritual Jewelry'. We must 'Wear' them within our heart, so that those who are 'spiritually naked' and are living outside the Kingdom of God, may one day find HIM and receive the incorruptible adornments of God's Holy Spirit. Where the Bride of Christ will one day be presented by our Lord, as pleasing and precious into our heavenly Father's Glorious Presence.      O'Lord, adorn my heart with those Precious Jewels of Love, Peace and Understanding , that YOUR Glory be seen as Beautiful and Majestic. YOU are the Source and the Giver of Life Everlasting, and YOU alone will I Forever Trust and Obey. All that I have, and ever HOPE to be, is found only in YOUR WORD and given by YOUR Spirit. Clothe me with YOUR Spirit forever, as I bear a Faithful Witness and Testimony to YOUR Son Christ Jesus. For HE WAS and IS and WILL Always be the LIFE that now lives within my heart. May the heart of YOUR Bride be found pleasing and acceptable in YOUR sight, Amen Thursday August 11, 2011  (11th of Av, 5771)            "Voices of Triump!"        Romans 15:6 (Amplified Bible) "That together you may [unanimously] with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah)."      Shall the Body of Christ worldwide, soon face the foretold reality found in God's WORD, that our voices will be openly opposed and ridiculed moreso as the Truth of Christ begins revealing the source of every evil and it's impending judgment? Mere human words are unable to adequately describe the fervor and zeal expressed in the tone of those 1st century apostles and disciples, as they Proclaim the Gospel and Good News of the Kingdom of God.      All that has ever been revealed to the hearts and minds of Believers in Christ Jesus through Holy Spirit, has been for the Declaration and Proclamation of God's Promise to a people who desire to know HIM and be set free from the bondage and chains of spiritual slavery. This revelation of Christ Jesus merits our unfailing Obedience, an aforementioned Faithfulness of the patriarchs, that must begin to manifest on the lips of Believers today.      Mankind was destined to hear and experience God's Mercy and Grace, from the foundation of creation. Voiced by those who both have heard and seen HIS Glory fill the temple. Where as opposed to long ago, it was once a physical manmade dwelling that the Glory of God inhabited, it is now by God's Spirit indwelling the vessels of HIS Mercy does HE desire to fully inhabit. This Truth continues to remain a mystery to those whose hearts have been deafened to the Voice of God. Let it never be that our voice be silenced because of opposition or persecution.          1 Thessalonians 3:13 So that He may strengthen and confirm and establish your hearts faultlessly pure and unblamable in holiness in the sight of our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) with all His saints (the holy and glorified people of God)! Amen, (so be it)!      These WORDs describe how God's Spirit strengthens, confirms and establishes within these earthly vessels, the Holiness and Righteousness through Christ Jesus, that is necessary to continue fulfilling the mandate of the Gospel. It is not by our own might or strength, but by God's Spirit will the Truth ultimately be delivered to every ear, in every tongue and throughout every nation of the earth. As God's WORD says, 'the world will know us by our Love', yet it has also been foretold that it will be through our Voices raised in Triumph, that men's hearts will come to hear and know of HIS LOVE for them.      There is only one reason why the voices of Believers are being silenced, and that is because the enemy has established a stronghold of fear. Courageous Warriors in God's Kingdom, who have been given Power to shut up the 'mouth of the accuser of the brethren', must Faithfully engage this enemy in spiritual warfare that results in souls being set free and delivered. Then will all the nations of the earth hear the shouts of Praise and Victory, of a people that will bravely Proclaim the KING of kings with Power..      O'Lord, YOU have baptized my heart with FIRE, igniting Passion by YOUR Spirit of Power. Guide me as I invade the darkness, delivering the message of Freedom to the captives. Lost souls crying out for Mercy, must hear the Good News from my lips, destined to declare YOUR Glory throughout the earth. Open their eyes to see YOUR Truth, standing to Redeem their souls from despair. It is by YOUR Grace have I been set free, and I must raise my Voice in Triumph, and Faithfully sound the alarm for a people to know YOU as their Lord and King. Forever will I stand in YOUR courts of Praise, Worshiping YOU in Spirit and Truth, Amen Monday August 8, 2011 (8th of Av, 5771)         "More than Conquerors!"      Acts 20:24 (Amplified Bible) "But none of these things move me; neither do I esteem my life dear to myself, if only I may finish my course with joy and the ministry which I have obtained from [which was entrusted to me by] the Lord Jesus, faithfully to attest to the good news (Gospel) of God's grace (His unmerited favor, spiritual blessing, and mercy)."      The spiritual 'battle' between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness is surely heating up to a fervent pitch. As in the days of Daniel, it is a heart completely surrendered to Jehovah God that will prosper and be Victorious. With the threat of persecution and possible death looming, both Daniel and Paul spoke of their 'LIFE' commitment to the Lord Most High. For our lives to experience this same PEACE, we as Believers in Christ Jesus must endure our own personal hardships Faithfully for the sake of the Gospel.      Victory over the spiritual attacks of the enemy, has been attained for us by Christ at the Cross of Calvary. Jesus was more than just the propitiation for our sin, HE was as the bearer of our iniquity, chastised that we might gain PEACE. Overcoming the enemy on our behalf, it is for Christ Jesus that Paul and others of the 1st century church regarded their lives nothing, in the knowledge of WHO they belonged to long after the beatings, torturing and often death passed. As Paul states, "if only I may finish my course with JOY", we too must look at our current trials as a blessing, and endure the increasingly violent attacks of the enemy with JOY knowing we are hidden in Christ for all of Eternity.       Having God's Holy Spirit as the 'Victors' prize awarded as an Inheritance, our souls await that hour in which our mortal bodies are transformed into immortal and glorified bodies, as Promised by Christ. Until that hour, we are to remain focused and steadfast in our pursuit of God's Holiness and Righteousness. A journey by which Holy Spirit guides us, manifesting TRUTH to our hearts in ever increasing measure. Our appointed time while here on the earth is but a vapor, and every opportunity and season to be witnesses of Victory must be zealously lived in POWER.       The Kingdom of God is not one of mortal words, but of POWER, Holy Spirit POWER. Where the sting of death holds no victory, we have been Resurrected in Christ, made to be Righteous in the sight of God and awaiting the Glorious Transformation of our souls into HIS Presence for Eternity. This message of the Gospel must be Declared and Proclaimed to the ears of every nation, tribe and tongue, for the Kingdom of God consists of these. Far above every other principality and spiritual power, my heart and soul is REIGNED and RULED by the Eternal POWER of God's Holy Spirit. We are more than conquerors, we are OVERCOMERS by the Precious BLOOD of the Lamb of God and the WORD of Testimony entrusted to us by the revelation of Holy Spirit.      O'Lord, my soul longs for YOU, my soul LONGS FOR YOU. Better is one day in YOUR courts than thousands elsewhere. There is no other place my heart longs to be than in YOUR Holy Presence. Stir me with YOUR Holy FIRE, burning passionately for a glimpse of YOUR Glory. I bow in WORSHIP of YOU, and listen to YOUR POWERFUL VOICE. Directing me in YOUR pathways of Holiness and Righteousness, I will follow all the days of my life. YOUR Grace is indeed sufficient, in this hour and forevermore. I can only imagine the Majesty and Splendor of YOUR face which I desire, YOUR glowing radiance of LOVE I seek. All Praise, Honor and Glory belongs to YOU my Lord and KING, now and forever.. AMEN Friday August 5, 2011 (5th of Av, 5771)                 "A Yearning Bride!"             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'. We must be hungry to experience the affection Christ Jesus that 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 our knowing the 'affection of Christ Jesus be made complete', he 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 inspired by Holy Spirit, the very depths of Christ' LOVE, as were publicly display by Christ over 2000 years ago at Calvary.      As the 'foundation' was being laid in the hearts of those 1st century disciples, it is upon this kind of selfless LOVE, which HIS church would be built and stand strong upon. Throughout the forthcoming ages, despite the hurts and broken commitments that in diverse ways, these situations often test even the most dedicated Believer.      Being much more than just a casual acquaintance, but as an ageless Testimony and Witness, we must portray to the world this same self-less sacrifice of ourselves. 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. HIS Bride must eagerly yearn for a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Lover of their soul. 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 strengthens 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 earth, Amen Monday August 1, 2011 (1st of Av, 5771)               "Royal Presence!"         Hebrews 10:22 (Amplified) "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.      The Apostle Peter spoke boldly of God's acceptance of the Gentile believers, having received the Gift and outpouring of Holy Spirit upon them. Acts 15:9 (Amplified) "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). "       Later in these verses, Paul, Barnabus and James give testimonies of everything 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,,, 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 www.theagapeletters.com   Contact US! Did someone forward this Devotional to you? Subscribe now to receive your own copy every day.