WALK BY FAITH

WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT 

Most Christians today are in the business of entertainment and appeasement—placating--pacifying, tolerating and encouraging sin to get others to comply with their wishes and support their cause.  Does God ever appease the people?  Yes, but it is to their detriment and for their enlightenment.  When the people of Israel grew faint and lacked faith and trust in God, they begged for a king.  God told Samuel to give them a king, but He also told them the consequences (I Samuel: 8).  God knows what we need.  Often, He will give us what we want in order to show us and teach us what we need.
 

God has given us the King of Kings to follow—a King of Righteousness and Truth; a King who will always lead us to God and never lead us astray--Our High Priest—Jesus Christ.  Today, as a result of not believing and trusting God, walking in faith and the light of our Lord, Jesus Christ, Christians are living out the consequences of their behavior.

Our Father’s grace and mercy still abounds.  It is not over yet, all is not lost, and there is still work to be done: Christ to lift up, discipleship; kingdom building; and a God to glorify.  God has a plan and purpose for each of us.  To many, He gives a vision or a word to lead the people to a promise.  Yet, not everyone can see or hear the vision and word God gives.  Darkness stands in the way to blind and rob us of God’s blessings and to prevent us from hearing His voice.  God has given us the promise of His Kingdom and eternal life.  If we are to lead them to the promise and if they must come with us, they must have faith. 

 

How do you get the people to cooperate and walk by faith? Cooperation can be difficult to achieve, especially with large groups of people.  As in the fable, of The Little Red Hen, her friends would not cooperate when she asked them to help plant the seed of wheat she had found.  Must we, also: till the soil; plant and water the seed; weed the garden; harvest and grind the grain; and mix and bake the bread, alone…without help?  Should we be more generous than The Little Red Hen?  Do we allow those who did not help to come eat when they smell the bread baking and when it is done? 

There is no guarantee that people will cooperate better even when they are assured of reward, compensation, profit or success.  Therefore, what assurance can we offer when we only have a vision and God’s given word to us?  Cooperation must be paired with faith.  Christ is the author and finisher of our faith.  Only through Him can we crawl out of the miry clay and learn to walk.  Only through Him can we increase our stride and increase our faith. 

STANDING ON GOD’S PROMISES

Walking by faith is an even larger task to undertake.  Noah walked by faith, when he built the ark, following every detail of God’s plan (Genesis 6, 7, 8, 9).  Yet, only he and his family were saved from the flood.  Should he have built the ark and let those who did not believe in the flood climb on board when the flood-waters rose?  Genesis 7: 16 says, “So those that entered, male and female of all flesh, went in as God had commanded him; and the Lord shut him in.”  Only God has the power to open and shut doors to His Kingdom.

Today, we help to build the Kingdom of God on earth.  How would we confront a similar situation, today, knowing that one day Jesus will return and all will stand in judgment?  We have been given specific instructions to follow through God’s Word to build His Kingdom.  Should we surround ourselves with protectors and distrust to keep the unhealthy or unqualified away?  Do we tell the people that it’s okay, there is no need for them to change, Jesus is going to take you just the way you are?  Should we invite the darkness to just climb aboard and stick with us, we’re one happy family, besides; no one knows what God is going to do, anyway? 

Should we bribe people and pay them for their support with money, status, power and control, or recognition?    Do we accept the darkness in order to not discourage or lose the support of the people, community and government; adopting the policy to be politically correct and user friendly?  If we want to lead others, should we build ourselves a reputation built on empty promises and false doctrine; flaunting what we can do, or what we have?  

Noah knew that God keeps His promises.  His faith was anchored in the Lord.  He could not worry about his reputation, or that of his family, if he was to please God and save his family.  Noah’s cooperation and faith stood on God’s promise.  What can man promise that will give eternal life?  As leaders, we must show others how to stand on God’s promises, not the promises of man and the world.

SURROUNDED BY FAITH

The Bible gives examples of God surrounding His leaders by those who walked by faith.  Moses sent out spies to assess the enemy and the land (Numbers 13, 14).  Two, Joshua and Caleb, came back with good report; two who walked by faith in God; two who became leaders.  Pharaoh surrounded himself with wise men, but they could not see the vision God placed before Him (Genesis 41).  Joseph, the son of Jacob (Israel), walked by faith; brought the vision to light; and God’s purpose for the vision was brought into fruition. Men of faith walked before the army of Israel, proclaiming the glory of God.  Men of faith surrounded and protected the Ark of the Covenant.  But, how do you get the people to cooperate and walk by faith without an army or an Ark of the Covenant?

GOD IS THE GOD OF ORDER

God gives specific instructions and instructs us to write them down.  When He gave the Israelites His Ten Commandments, He wrote them down (Exodus 20).  When He gave instructions to build, they were very specific, from the list of materials to who should build each item (Exodus 25-40).  He divided His people according to their purpose, strengths, and talents.  He provided Solomon with a predefined plan handed down from his father, David, along with materials, leaders, laborers, supporters, and benefactors to build His temple (I Chronicles: 28).  He supplied the vision and everything else, and then used the people to fulfill it.  Yet, one thing they were required to do, always…trust HIM, which involved having faith.  Still, how do you get people today to cooperate and walk by faith?

¹⁹ “All this,” David said, “I have in writing as a result of the Lord’s hand on me, and he enabled me to understand all the details of the plan.”

HELP THEM SEE GOD

And during the battle with Amalek, Moses stood with his hands raised (Exodus 17).  When, his hands were raised, they were winning.  When, his hands fell, they would be losing.  When he grew tired and no longer had strength to keep them raised, men of faith (Aaron and Hur), stood at his side, holding his hands up.  Some see only the image of Moses spurring the army to victory.  However, those who walk by faith, see Moses’ hands stretched toward Heaven, showing the army from whence their help came; showing them that God was on their side; showing them the promise of God, if they would endure.   In return, God required that Moses’ hands remain raised throughout the battle, to prove that winning was not because of the power and might of man, but the power and might of God.  Knowing this, the soldiers were spurred to fight even harder, for the glory of their God.  

Yes, we can and should show others a plan.  We can help them visualize the promise.  However, the people must know that they are following God, not just man.  They must be able to see beyond the flesh of the leader.  They must work because they want to see God’s Kingdom come, here on earth, as it is in heaven.  There must be no turning back; for it is given to us in Luke 9:62 (KJV) 

 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

There must be commitment, not only to self, the leader, accomplishment and reward; but commitment primarily to God.  They can not look for confirmation of success or reward, but they must rest in the affirmation of God’s love for us, through Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit.  Most importantly, we must help them see God in the working of the plan and God working the plan.

THE HOLY SPIRIT, WORKING AS ONE

The Holy Spirit brings us into one mind and one accord to do the work of the Kingdom.  One can not abide in His Holy Spirit and work contrary to the Word of God; for it is by His Spirit, God has given us His word.  There is one God, one Spirit, one faith.  Those who dwell in His Spirit: know of His peace; His gentleness; His joy; His strength; His power; His grace and mercy; and above all, His love. 

 

We are meek as lambs, but we do not walk timidly; for all and everything belongs to our Father and He expects us to claim that which He gives unto us.  Grace and mercy is in our hands.  He teaches us righteousness and we are filled with truth.  There is no condemnation in our hearts; for we are free; free from double-mindedness, jealousy, malice, lies and deceit.  We have died and been born again of His Holy Spirit.  Each day, if self arises, we die again; for we hunger for the holiness and righteousness of God.  We can not bear to be outside of His Light; exposed to the darkness with the cold hand of sin and death upon our shoulders.  We run back to the protection of God, with humbleness and repentance, seeking His favor once again.  In Him, we find relief, deliverance, comfort, mercy and grace.  If we have forgiven others, as our Father has forgiven us, He deals with us accordingly. (Luke 6:37-38)

Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.

When others look at us; hear us; touch us; they experience the presence of God.  We acknowledge His presence in everything we say; everything we feel; and everything we do.  Our eyes and heart show that we love because He first loved us.  We will draw others to Christ, if they are seeking the Light or repel them if they are lovers of darkness.

Do we bring in the darkness and allow it to stay, if we can not keep our candles lit; if we have not enough oil to burn our lamps; if we can not die to ourselves and live in Christ?  If so, then, the darkness infiltrates and overcomes us.  We become Christians who appease, tolerate and encourage sin.  We are consumed by a feel good, prosperity ministry which encourages people to come and stay as they are.  We entertain; placating and pacifying others to get them to do what we want, so they will pay attention and support our cause, instead of our God.

Only Light can stand and overcome the darkness.  Christians must walk in the light; for God is in the Light; God is in Christ; and through Him we have fellowship with one another; through Him we overcome darkness and conquer the world.  Christians were never meant to be “of the world”.  God set us apart to be holy and of His Kingdom.  Christ made us disciples to go out and change the world, not to open our doors and let the world change us.

We have been sent out to tend the fields.  But, what kind of seeds are we planting?  If they are good seeds, are they growing?  What kind of fruit do we bear?  What kind of farmers or gardeners are we?  In whom do we put our trust?  And to whom shall the harvest go?  If we sow poorly, is it no wonder that some visions never come to fruition or go completely awry?  You reap what you sow.  The blind can not lead the blind.  We have heard it all before, but we continue to err because we are not rooted in the Vine.  We want to lead, but we do not know how to follow; how to follow Christ.

The followers will follow because they are drawn to Christ.  The leader must follow Christ, but all must know who Christ is.  We are caught up in only showing joy and happiness in Christ.  But, this joy and happiness can only be brought about through our death and rebirth; sorrow, humbleness, repentance, surrender, death, labor, struggle, pain, emergence into the Light, growth, submission, obedience, unity, peace, joy, rest, celebration of the resurrection of the spirit and everlasting life. 

Christ is not afraid to root out and vanquish the darkness in His followers.  He is not afraid they will reject Him if He brings them pain.  He does it because He loves them.  The Father is in Him and the Father loves and chastises us.  So, this is what the Light must do to draw us closer to God.  He must expose and drive out the darkness, so that He can dwell inside and give full and everlasting life.  Appeasement is not love; it is destruction of the soul and separation from the Light.  If Christ, be in us, we have nothing to fear.

Many Christians lead today, but do not follow.  When one does not abide in Christ, they lack the love of Christ…they lack the love of God.  Where is God’s love in leadership today?!  We have leaders who believe they can follow Christ’s teachings in some things and not others, but one can not have one foot in the Light and one foot in the dark and at the same time walk the straight and narrow path with God.  

If you are going to love me, love me as Christ loves me or you do not truly love me.  Tell me when I am wrong.  Tell me how God wants me to live not how the world wants me to live.  If you truly love me, give me a chance at abundant life and life everlasting.  Do not just entertain me to give me a false sense of hope, security and a temporary smile upon my face.  And if by chance, I turn away from the truth, remember I have not rejected you, I have rejected God.  But, don’t give up on me.  Pursue me as Christ pursues His sheep and rejoices for the one that was lost.  Make me accountable for this life that has been given to me.  Make me accountable to my brothers and sisters.  Make me accountable to God.  Show me how to have faith and hope. Show me how to follow Christ.  Show me how to love.

How do you get people to cooperate and walk by faith?  We give them to Jesus.  Let Him change their hearts and their mind will follow.  When we walk in the Light, we always speak truth to others.  This is not judgment; for judgment is condemnation without hope.   We do not sway one way, then the other way, to gain favor and support.  We stay true to our God first and always.  If we walk in His Light, we stay true to our purpose and His plans for us as individuals, children, and the Body of Christ. 

We must believe that God will always provide enough workers, materials and instructions to do what He has asked us to do.  He will provide by His will, in His way, and in His time--not ours.  He has shown us that one man can become a nation; one man can defeat thousands; one loaf of bread can feed thousands. 

Oh, ye of little faith, who believe God needs the world and lovers of darkness to do His work for Him.  Be ye children of the Almighty God?  Give your hearts to Jesus.  Father, show our leaders that they must be steadfast followers of Christ before they can lead others; lest they lead them astray.  Speak to their hearts Father and remove the darkness and fear that encompasses them.  Let them know our work is to turn the hearts of the children to their Father, so they will walk by faith and not by sight.  Teach them not to be afraid to give them to Jesus, so that the Holy Spirit can make them over again.  Teach our leaders to first seek the Kingdom of Heaven and all else will follow. 

Father, it is hard when we feel we are walking alone.  We always want to look behind to see if anyone is following us; if anybody believes in us and supports us.   Father, help us to come out of self; for we, too, are only followers.  We can do nothing without You.  Many believe you only walk beside us.  They have not been taught that you will live inside of us through Your Holy Spirit, the Helper, you sent to us.  You promised that you would never leave us alone.  Help us to know you through your Spirit.  People only want to present Your love and happiness, Father, but they don’t really know your love and happiness.  They don’t know how to show that everything about You leads to good.  If we trust you Father; if we surrender all; if we endure, even the pain, we will have unspeakable joy and victory that is everlasting. Amen

When the branches are grafted firmly into the Vine, then they will become strong, rooted in the source; fed by the Water of Life, fortified with His power; growing upward into the Light.  Then, they will work together to bear good fruit and the Vine-dresser will smile upon them. 

By the Grace and Mercy of Our Father,
your servant,
Mishael

GOD WILL BE HEARD

CAN MAN SILENCE GOD?

Can man silence God by omitting, altering or denying His Word?

I ask you, can the wind dry up the Word of God, or the sea wash it away?

Is God dead that He can never speak again?

Tell me, has God abandoned man so that we will never hear from Him?

Man can not silence the voice of God.  Man can not limit His power.  God will be heard, today, tomorrow and forever. This is the God I serve.


What can man do to God? How can man silence the Truth that formed the Universe and maintains its existence? Why quiver and quarrel over the impossible? If God's Word lives within you, it is written upon your heart. It speaks to you from the very mouth from which it was formed.

THE LIVING WORD

If every printer refuses to print the Book of God, God's Word still lives.

If governments ban the Book of God, God's Word still lives.

If the mouth of every preacher be shut up, the Word of God still lives.

If every church door be locked and chained, the Word of God lives.

If every Bible be burned, the Word of God lives.

If pages be ripped out and torn from the Bible, changed or polluted, the Word of
God still lives.

For the Word of God is alive and it was meant to live within man.

The Word of God is our Lord and Savior, Jesus, the Christ.

The Word of God can not be killed or silenced.

The world will pass away, stars will disappear, but God's Word will live forever more.

The Word will continue to be scattered and planted and it will grow. Uproot it and it will grow over here. Trample it and it will grow over there.

It will emerge from fertile ground and field around the world to feed those seeking Truth.

WE WANT TO KNOW THE TRUTH,

THE WHOLE TRUTH,

AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH

There are many who believe that God's Word given to man is incomplete or tampered with.  There are those who believe God has entrusted His true Word to one man.  There are those who believe that which was given to us is only the beginning of God's Word.  There are those who believe the Old Testament is the end of God's Word.  There are those who simply do not believe in God or His Word.  There are those who believe man is in control and man can deny the power of God.

By faith the Word was given that  "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ² He was in the beginning with God. "John 1:1-2 (NKJV)  God is the Word and the Word is Truth, then all Truth should be of God.  If we are of God, we should not be confused by man's ideology and false doctrine. Yet, how do we tell the difference?  Why is it so difficult for man to know what is truth and what is not?  Is it that we are seeking to justify our desires and pride first? 

All truth glorifies God, not man.  All truth honors God, not man.  All truth gives power to God alone, not man. All truth renders Light, not darkness.   All truth magnifies God's unlimited power.  All truth renders praise to God, not man.  God's Truth will prevail because it is everlasting.  It can not and will not change.

In His parables, Jesus used different scenarios to teach the same lesson of Truth. Those who could not see or hear beyond His spoken words, could not understand His message. The Bible presents us with the same challenge. There are many historical events and persons used to deliver God's message of Truth, but we must see and hear beyond the words. God wants us to know Truth. Truth will lead us to know God, our Father and Jesus, His Son. By this, we may inherit the Kingdom and eternal life. Will a man be disqualified because they do not know all of the Bible? We can not know His Word until our hearts have been changed , our sight has been restored and our ears have been opened. A hardened heart can not see; nor can it hear; nor can it receive God's love; nor is it filled with holiness and righteousness; nor does it walk in the Light. We can not come to know His Word, until we surrender to the Will of God and abide in His Word--Jesus Christ.

DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?

Satan seeks to confound the mind of every believer and cause confusion and chaos, keeping us arguing, debating over ink on a page, as if God's Word can be blotted out. Satan seeks to harden hearts, for he knows that a hardened heart can not enter the Kingdom. And while those wrapped up in legalism, tradition, hermeneutics, theology, philosophy, accusation and recitation, dispute authenticity, addition, omission and interpretation, Satan kindles their pride and hardens their heart toward their neighbor, searing hate and judgment into their hearts. They defile God's Word and can not comprehend its purpose for their minds have been steered away from Truth. They seek to use God's Word for their own power and glory. They claim rights without righteousness. They can not hear God. The Holy Spirit can not lead them because they are led by pride. They do not abide in Jesus (The Word) and Godly love is forsaken, for they “emphasize the letter of the law at the expense of the spirit.”

A NEW COVENANT

God has given us a New Covenant and the Word of God is our inheritance. It is said in HEBREWS 8: 7-13

⁷ For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. ⁸ Because finding fault with them, He says: “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah— ⁹ not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they did not continue in My covenant, and I disregarded them, says the Lord.

 ¹⁰ For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. ¹¹ None of them shall teach his neighbor, and none his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. ¹² For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.”

¹³ In that He says, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away

 

THE SUM OF ALL FEAR

We must have true faith and trust in God.  True faith in God yields to His  omnipotence, recognizing that God has all power and authority.  God can not be silenced. Yes, men try to disclaim the Bible. The Bible is misinterpreted, misused and taken out of context. It is slandered, banned and hated. Christians have had to die for the Bible and one day even more will perish. Nonetheless, if we succumb to fear and paranoia, we show that we lack true faith and the love of God is not in us. True faith in God is faith which puts no limits or constraints upon His  Power; neither does it give power and glory to man or darkness. Faith must abide in God's love for His love cast out fear.  Fear is Satan's vehicle to use us by means of addition or subtraction to altar an equation, to his benefit. 

1 John 4:17-19 (NKJV)

¹⁷ Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. ¹⁸ There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. ¹⁹ We love Him because He first loved us.

Satan wants God's people to remain in fear and under the constraint of religion--to remain in bondage to hatred and legalism.  Religion robs us of the opportunity to come to know God in a true and loving relationship.  To remain under religion is to remain blind and in darkness, wandering in the desert, as the children of old, without faith and trust in God.

When one is blind, they can not see they are dead in sin. They can not apply the knowledge and wisdom of the Bible because God's Word is alive. It is the Living Word. The Word must attach itself to that which is also alive—born again of the Spirit. To know the Word of God is to be alive in the Word and His Holy Spirit teaches you and writes His Word upon your heart. The Bible is one form of proof that the Word of God lives. We are the other form of proof that the Word of God lives. If His Holy Spirit lives in us, there will be no doubt the Word is alive. We will shine His light and love and God Will Be Heard.

ANCHORED

Many say their faith is anchored in the Bible, the Word of God, which has survived as His authority for ages.  However, never forget that the Word of God is The Rock of Ages. “Be very sure your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock. This Rock is Jesus. He is the One. This Rock is Jesus. The Only One. Be very sure. Be very sure. Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock.” Those who belong to Him, hear Him, and through us, God Will Be Heard.



Father, we love you.  We thank you for your Son, the Word, who opens the eyes of the blind, unstops the ears of the deaf and frees the tongue of the mute; who tells the lame to rise up and walk; and gives those, who were once dead, eternal life. I thank you for giving Your Holy Spirit to live in us that we may be proof of your Living Word. Endow us with Your Wisdom to speak boldly in spirit and in truth, perfected in Your Love, void of fear, anchored in the Lord, having all confidence in Your Power, to the glory of Your Name, through Christ Jesus. Amen

By the Grace and Mercy of God

Your Servant

Mishael

Love: God's Authority

LOVE HAS AUTHORITY OVER DARKNESS

To my Brothers and Sisters, who share in the edification of the Body, that through His Holy Spirit, we may manifest the love of God, Our Father, and Jesus Christ, His Son.

I was listening to a radio talk show I do not normally listen to, but God wanted to teach me something. A listener called in to ask a clergyman what he could do to help his coworkers who had abandoned their faith. The clergyman simply told him to pray for them. Oh my! I thought. This is why we have so many weak believers who know nothing of discipleship and the power within them, let alone, what they truly believe in. So, what should he do, I asked? As the popular saying goes, “What would Jesus do?”

This led me to think about why am I so comforted when I come to the passages in the Bible where Jesus is speaking. What is it about Him that speaks with such authority but at the same time is so compelling and loving? Without doubt, it is God's love speaking through Him. It is God's love that draws us to Him and works within to change and complete us.

We have all heard the sayings, 'Love your enemies' and 'God is love'. When we act in love, we give God authority over the situation. Hate fuels the fire and love puts out the flame. God's love is unchanging, everlasting, transforming, miraculous, able to create heaven and earth, mankind and give His Son to die for us.

Love validates and identifies us as belonging to God. It shows acceptance and approval. It strengthens, empowers and edifies. It is the hidden manna that fortifies the spirit and transforms the soul. We do not see it, but we feel it. It feeds us, strengthens and touches our heart.

People love. We see love everyday. Yes, we see expressions of love, but where does it come from? What kind of love is it? What we see most is worldly love and love of the world. It comes and goes and changes at whim. It is filled with pain and darkness, for it is not born of Truth.

The world is filled with angry, irritated people, especially young people, who have never been truly loved. They welcome the darkness because it fills the void inside. We see this inside prisons, where pushers of false doctrine and religion lie in wait of those filled with anger and void of love. If we are to dispel the darkness, we must love them as Jesus loved.

CHANGED BY LOVE
John 19:26, John 20:2, John 21:7, John 21:20

We are given a very strong, personal and poignant message in the book of John. There is a very deliberate...intentional omission of a name in the phrase “ the disciple whom Jesus loved.” There are many, deep feelings behind this phrase and its use. Many wonder if it speaks of one or more persons, or, of John, himself. What it does speak, is truth...truth unto those whose hearts are not hardened. Like Jesus' parables, this truth is not given for all to know. The question is not, “Who did Jesus love?” The answer is, “How did Jesus love?” The phrase points out and helps us to understand that Jesus had an undying love and relationship with His followers. In spite of their flaws and short-comings, regardless of their personal feelings toward one another, their unworthiness or betrayal. There was no doubt that, Jesus loved them all. Yes, even Judas, a sinner, like you and me. Jesus loved them all and His love was life-changing and dispelled the darkness.

For His disciples, all of their feelings and experiences (loss, remorse, joy, wonder, fear, sadness, weakness, anger, trust, distrust, peace, bitterness, jealousy, confusion, acceptance, comfort, guilt, sympathy, pity, strength, love, admiration, reverence, etc.)...these emotions are summed up, resolved and celebrated in that one phrase....”the disciple whom Jesus loved.” To be loved by Jesus is to be truly loved. Many take this phrase out of context to mean one thing or another. Nonetheless, God prevails and gives us proof...proof that the twelve had become one and loved one another as Jesus loved them. And because He loved us so, I will love as He loved.

Jesus last commandment to His disciples was that they love one another. For this Godly love would have authority over their feelings and over their relationship, in spite of their differences. Love for one another would prove that they were His followers.  To submit to God's love is to submit to His Will and His Way. Godly love is unifying.

JOHN 13:33-35 (NKJV)

33 Little children, I shall be with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come,’ so now I say to you. 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

To know Jesus' love is to know God's love. It is love of a father for his children, regardless of their wrong doings and short-comings. It is love that chastises and forgives. It is love that nurtures and guides. Jesus' love sees all that is within you that others can not see. God's love enables us to see with His eyes.

Mark 10:17-22 (NKJV)

17 Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”

18 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.

19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’”

20 And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.”

21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

Jesus looked at the young man and loved him. What did He see: a life of honor, respect and obedience; a life of luxury and riches? Yes, but there was more. Jesus looked at his heart, with God's eyes. Then, He spoke in love. And although, He loved the young man, He asked that which He knew would be refused. He asked that which the young man simply would not give up or risk, because he lacked one thing. Did Jesus take away His love when the young man turned away from Him, saddened at His requests, or did He continue to love the youth, knowing the kind of life and love he had chosen?

WE WERE CREATED TO RESPOND TO LOVE

From the time we are born, we respond to love. A baby is comforted by the sound of a loving voice. A child can discern when they are chastised in love or anger. This is why God entreats us to speak the truth always in love. Like Adam, we were created to respond to God's voice and within His voice can be heard love and authority.

Man creates laws and more laws that must be enforced, because laws do not change people, they only deter or detour behavior. When we truly love one another, there is respect, because we submit to the will of God. Truly love one another you say? Can we love others as God loves us? That is the problem. People don't know how to love because they don't know God. John 17:3, Jesus said, “and this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” The disciples came to know God through Jesus. We, too, can show others God, through His Holy Spirit within us.

Matthew 5:43-48

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? 48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect
 

God gives us the power of love to overcome the darkness that creates and drives our enemies; for our war is not with flesh and blood, but with the adversary. We are not given only the power of prayer. God intends us to be proactive and even more so, to be preemptive and preventative; binding and loosing; walking in authority.

Christians have become use to doing damage control because they do not walk in the Light. Damage control only minimizes damage and provides a temporary fix. When you walk with God, there is no need for damage control, because He is in control. Having God's love within us means that,”no weapon formed against us can harm us.” Being filled with God's love means that, “we do unto others as we would have them do unto us.” Walking with God's love means, “If God be for us, then who can be against us.”

Those in the world use their love as a weapon to entice and punish, because their love is not of Truth. When God chastises us, it is because of His love for us, that we may live in the harmony of Truth and abide in the blessings and protection of His love. “Love thy enemy.” He said. There is strength and power in love. God's Love is an authoritative shield to protect—a repelling force so that the enemy's heart is pierced with their own spear; for love exposes hate and convicts; it brings pause, serenity and humbleness; it extracts, deflates, elevates, validates and seals. When, we love our enemy, we remove the power from Satan to aggravate, manipulate and destroy lives.

We who walk in the Light must show others how to love. Love strengthens us and we can strengthen others. This is our calling to lead others to be disciples who walk in the light—who walk in love and authority.

Yes, God wants us to pray for others. But, if you are compelled to pray, do not pray only in pity or sorrow, as if all hope is gone. Pray in victory and thanksgiving, exuding Godly love, with abounding faith in what God can and will do, when we ask in Jesus' name. When we love our neighbor as we love ourselves, yes, we give God authority over our relationships--authority that changes things. Most often, we also find a change taking place within us, to mold us into vessels of light, in order to do His Will, for what is needed within the relationship.

PETER: “Greater love hath no man ...”

John 15:12-14 (KJV)

12 “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. 13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. 14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.”

Peter was a disciple eager to prove himself--his faith and his love for Jesus. He was eager to prove that his faith and courage surpassed that of others. Still, Jesus knew his heart. He was not quite ready for what was ahead of him. His faith would be put to the test and seal his fate. Although, Peter appeared to be ready to take risks, there was one he was not ready for.

RISKS

So, this is my question for the caller on the radio and others like him, “What is the faith that they have abandoned?”  What is it you think they should return to?  If they no longer believe in God, then, they have also abandoned love, hope, joy, truth, peace, for all are of God. They still have faith, but it can not grow. It has no light. It is without the water of life. It lacks true purpose, direction and guidance. It has been uprooted, adrift or replanted in the world.

What the coworkers have rejected is religion.  Faith is not religion.  Faith is not Catholic or Protestant, Jewish or Muslim.  Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  Faith is the ability to see Truth and hold on to it as if you are shipwrecked in the ocean, finding a piece of wood and clinging to the only thing that can keep you afloat. Faith is not proven by practicing rituals in a building, nor manifested by repetitive prayer, scripture or song.  We can not see faith or love, but we feel it and know it exists as Truth.  Religion can not produce truth.  When religion is offered as faith, it does not lead others to a relationship with Truth.  The sheep become lost and scattered.  The affect of religion and false doctrine leaves them confused, embittered and worse off than before. They are adrift and cling to the world because they do not know Truth.

They have run from that which has put unnecessary burdens upon their back and a heavy yoke around their neck. What they do not know is...they can not escape God. The goodness which they seek within the world can only be found in Him. When they do not find it, or it is taken away, they call upon His name. But, where shall they go? They do not want to return to the rituals, practices and doctrine that could not help them, but burdened them even more. They are lost sheep, but are they even missed? Is someone searching for them? Or, have they been abandoned and left to be claimed and devoured by the darkness? What would Jesus do? He would love them and continuously pursue their hearts until they too say, I am loved by Jesus. Can others say this of us? Will they say they were loved by us, as Jesus loved? Will we lead them to follow?

If you simply want to point a finger, shake your head in pity or condemnation of others, feeling that there is nothing you can do, then perhaps all you can do is pray.  While you are at it, pray for yourself, also, to be delivered from the bondage that has most of God's people weakened and chained to religion, for this also is abandonment of faith.  However, if you believe you have faith, put your faith to the test.  Take a leap of faith and do what Jesus would do...love them.  Show others true faith in God, for faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  Love for the lost is evidence of your hope for them. Your Godly love casts light upon them and is a shield against the darkness that wants to claim them. Your Godly love is proof of the God they can not see.

There will be some who think this message is impractical, too radical, premature or illogical. However, each day, we wake up our faith is put to the test. Do we accept the risks before us or deny Jesus and cling to our own lives and the world?

If we are to lead the lost back to the flock, we must offer them more than religion.  We must show them Truth.  God's Word is Truth.  In our relationship with them, we must always show them Jesus, for Jesus is the author and finisher of faith.  If they abide in Him, He will increase their faith and lead them to the Kingdom.

As disciples, we abide in Jesus' love—a love that is proactive. Love that led Jesus to die for us. Jesus showed us that there are always risks in loving others, but if we truly love our brother, we take those risks.

Mark 8:34-36 (NKJV)

34 When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 35 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. 36 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?

Abide in Jesus. Know God. And with this assurance we have nothing to fear:

Isaiah 54:16-17 (NKJV)

16 “Behold, I have created the blacksmith

Who blows the coals in the fire,
Who brings forth an instrument for his work;
And I have created the spoiler to destroy.
17 No weapon formed against you shall prosper,
And every tongue which rises against you in judgment
You shall condemn.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,
And their righteousness is from Me,”
Says the Lord.

Yes, there are many who have abandoned their faith, but, then again, there are even more who have not truly found it. Can one lead the lost if they too are lost? Still, the Shepherd calls.

Father, “I am thine oh, Lord. I have heard Thy voice and it told Thy love for me.” Help us to love others as You love us.  May Your love in us lead the lost to Your Kingdom.  Jesus, you said, “ He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” Jesus, we believe in You and the power of Your Love. Let your water—the Spirit of Truth--flow from us into those who thirst; water that will revive their faith and help it to grow. Father, help us shine Your Light to dispel their darkness.   Help us to always speak in love and truth.  May Your Holy Spirit in us touch their hearts and transform to make them over—a new creature—a new vessel—heirs to the Kingdom and eternal life. Amen

Through the Grace and Mercy of God,
Your Servant,
Mishael

 

 

ONLY A LOOK

DISCIPLESHIP: Who, What and How?

How do we create disciples?  We do not create them--Jesus does.  How do we win disciples?  We do not--it is not a challenge, contest, nor a membership quota.  How do we teach others how to be disciples?  We do not--it is not a lesson we can teach, for each disciple is taught through the Holy Spirit, who gives wisdom and understanding, supplies what is lacking, removes what is unclean and instills the power and  love of God.

Discipleship is a relationship with Jesus--a relationship that instills Jesus' love and power, which we exemplify and bestow upon others.  Jesus provides a relationship in which we abide in Him to be perfected.  Our ability to overcome, through Christ, lifts up the name of Jesus and draws men to Him. Power to change and save man, lies in His name, alone.  He shines a light through us that lights the way to Truth.

FOLLOWERS WHO LEAD

Jesus requests for others to follow Him, is not in reference to an earthly journey or destination.  We are to follow His example and have a relationship with Him that will lead us to God and the Kingdom.    Jesus' parables demonstrated to His disciples the will of God for His Kingdom, so that that which is done in Heaven will be done on earth.  He told them that, if they abide in Him and do the will of the Father, they will find that the Kingdom of God is within them.  After He ascended into Heaven, Jesus returned and breathed into them His Holy Spirit, then, sent them out into the world.

So, how can we increase discipleship?  What are we expected to do to lead others to discipleship?  We do just that...we lead.  We lead the way, so that others will follow, just as Jesus continues to lead us, through His Holy Spirit.  As His disciples, we must take His gospel into the world.  This does not mean that everyone must continuously travel, spreading the Gospel.  As we live our lives, within the world, we walk as Jesus' disciples.  In our daily walk, with Christ, we spread His Gospel and compel others to have a relationship with Him.  We can witness to others about our relationship with Jesus.  However, our walk...our walk, the way in which we live, work, love and carry ourselves, along with our faithfulness to God...this walk, the light and truth within us, must prove that we are truly His followers. It is truth, which will lead others to Christ and to become His disciple. 

HOW SHALL A MAN WALK?

Through our walk, we show others the path we follow.  So, we must be careful not to stray from that path, lest we be a stumbling block to others.  Our walk shows others that we can conquer the world, through Christ.  Our walk shows others how to solve worldly problems through accountability to God and Godly love.  Our walk shows that there is always a road ahead and you are never at a dead end.  Our walk shows hope and love.  Our walk provides others with a look at Jesus.  The choice becomes theirs to follow Him.  Only a look at Jesus, even a glimpse, can change hearts, calm storms, heal sickness and cast out evil.

By all accounts, Jesus should have had thousands of disciples, but all did not choose to follow Him.  Many thought it too hard because they would have to give up worldly things, people in their lives and surrender their will to God.  Yes, many heard Jesus speak, as the Word of God, and many believed Him.  Many believed because of His miracles.  However, true belief and discipleship is not only in mind, but in spirit.  Like the rich man, who did not want to sell his possessions (Matthew 19:16-24), one can believe, but choose not to follow and have a relationship with Jesus.  Jesus had disciples that began to follow, but found it too hard to continue because they feared or loved the world.  They took their eyes off of Jesus and sank into darkness. 

DISCIPLESHIP WITHIN THE CHURCH

Is it the responsibility of the church to lead people to discipleship? Yes, but many churches are in competition with Christ.  Many churches focus on the support of their own doctrine, rituals, membership, agenda and authority.  When we are in Christ, He alone is the authority.  Through Christ, we are free of false doctrine and legalism.  Christ focuses on bringing us to spiritual maturity for the Kingdom and everlasting life. To Christ, membership is of no importance, for all who follow, belong to Him.   To expect the institutional church to instill discipleship within it's members is to place " a kingdom against itself."  Jesus said, " "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation and a house divided against a house falls."  (Luke 11:17)  They will not cut off their own foot, nor will they cast stones at themselves.  Their lack of faith, love of self and the world, keeps them from believing in discipleship and truly looking at Jesus.  They need people to remain weak, sinful, hateful, lovers of the world and ignorant of Truth, in order to support their institution and cover their deceit that they lead people to follow religion.  A church that leads people to Jesus, leads people to discipleship.

GOD IS ALWAYS IN CONTROL

We can argue that we need to fix these types of churches.  We can argue that we don't need more mega churches.  We can argue that we should hold ministers accountable for the lack of discipleship within the church.  We...we...we.  In making these arguments, we must not forget that God is in control.  Just as He protects the true Body of Christ, He has a plan for true discipleship. 

Before we start assessing what we need and do not need; or what we can and can not do, or what should be done, we must not forget to acknowledge, proclaim and fear what God can do, could do and would do if it were not for His grace and mercy.  Let us submit to the will and power of God. When we base the functionality and fate of the church upon our own desires, assumptions, prejudice and short-sightedness, we attempt to limit the power of God, who is all knowing.  God is always in control. 

When we don't see God changing or controlling a situation, we want to change or control it ourselves. However, God is always in control.  God allows things in order that we may see His purifying power, which is part of the grace and mercy He bestows upon us.  When God allows, He is providing an opportunity to  help us distinguish and discern holiness and righteousness.  Every adverse situation is an opportunity for God to be glorified.

Our "we" and "I" should always give God glory, honor and power'  and acknowledge that without Him, we can do nothing.  Instead of focusing on what needs to be corrected, removed, or limited, we can ask God if it is His will to use us, within the situation, that He may be glorified and others will be led to the Kingdom. 

KEEPING OUR EYES ON JESUS

Jesus told His disciples, " It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!"  (Luke 17:1)  Let us not be so distracted by these offenses so that our light becomes darkness and we can not be effective disciples and vessels for Christ.  The book of Revelation contains Christ's letters to the churches.  He knew many churches would fall to the darkness in the world and warns them even now of their lack of faith, their betrayal of their first love and their alignment with the evil one.

That, which is in the world, is for the world and will remain until the appointed time. However, be mindful of that which God allows, for God can change things and people of the world into good  and use them for His purpose, for He has all power.

There are those,  in the world, having heard the Word, by choice, choose to remain of the world.  Blessed are those, in the world, who have looked at Jesus, heard His voice and are no longer of the world.  And just as we, through His power, have been changed to become one, we are purposed for His good.  As disciples, we become not only the voice of Jesus' Gospel, but the image of Him that others see.  In order for them to see Jesus, we must let His light shine through us.  To be certain the light within us is not darkness, we must keep our eyes on Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; for we have a charge to keep and a God to glorify.

OPPORTUNITY FOR DISCIPLESHIP

Jesus made sure that everyone would have opportunity to follow Him.  He sent His disciples out into the world, to heal the sick, forgive sins, and draw others into the Kingdom.  The difference between success of one person over another is often opportunity.  God provides a multitude of opportunities for everyone to hear His Word.  Jesus continues to send teachers, preachers, evangelists, prophets and apostles to equip the saints.  And if we be equipped, need we have fear of the tactics of the enemy, or should we, His disciples, seize each opportunity before us to glorify our God?  It is something to think about the next time we forget that...God is in control.  We need only to take a look at Jesus.

WE ARE ONE

"The answer to your prayer begins with your measure of faith. 

Too often, we ask God to do what we really don't believe He can do, or we want Him to do all the work,  when our faith is the answer to our problem.  He has given us power, through our faith in Christ, to conquer the world.    

Lord, increase our faith."

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WE ARE ONE

My brothers and sisters,

My heart is filled with love and joy in the knowledge that we are one in the Spirit.  The Father is in the Son. The Son is in the Father.  We are one with the Father, Son and His Holy Ghost.  Through the sacrifice and petition of Jesus, we are One.  (John 17:20, 21)

I speak not of our individual relationship with the Trinity, but of our combined relationship together.  I speak not of a church congregation or membership (for they are not one), but an inseparable fusion and fellowship.  You and I, through the power of His Holy Ghost, are one.  What does this mean? How can many become one?  We must see beyond our flesh.  We are spiritual beings, linked with other spiritual beings, through His Holy Spirit.  Why?  In order that we may be perfected together.  So, that, we may be of one mind to move as the Body of Christ.  So, that, we may be a powerful force against the darkness.  So, that, we will draw others to Christ.  So, that, the love of Christ in us will prove to the world that He was God's Son.  (John 17:22,23)

 ONE IN PRAYER

Know this, my brothers and sisters, that you may be a more effective vessel, within the Body of Christ.  As we are one with His Holy Spirit, we are one when we pray. What does this mean?  It means that with this knowledge, we can be more effective as a body.  It means that as you pray, His Holy Spirit within us all hears and acts on your behalf.  Even if I am not aware of what you have prayed for, I can be an effective vessel.  His Holy Spirit, the Father and Son, within us, can place it upon my heart to pray for what is needed and use me accordingly.  It is not magical, mystical or paranormal, for we never give Satan credit for what belongs to God.  Through the power of God, we are given wisdom and guidance, discernment and remembrance.  His Holy Spirit can bring to mind situations and scriptures that will help and lead us to pray for others, go to others and act on their behalf.  Why use others to pray, also?  Because, we are one and everything we do effects those around us. When we ask our Father for something, He responds.  Prayer changes things, for Jesus said that if we ask in His name and it be the will of the Father, it will be given.

Know this, also, that you may be a more effective vessel.  Prayer shows faith in God.  It is not a time of doubt but an affirmation of His power and ability to do all things. 

Prayer is not only for times of weakness and need.  Prayer is a time to offer yourself as a willing vessel to do His will.  

It is a time to prepare for spiritual battle and be strengthened.  It is a time for intercession. 

Prayer is a time to tell Him what is in your heart and let Him know you are His. It is a time to praise and love God. 

FAITH IN PRAYER

Prayer shows God your measure of faith and that you place your faith in Him.  The answer to your prayer begins with your measure of faith.  Too often, we ask God to do what we really don't believe He can do, or we want Him to do all the work, when our faith is the answer to our problem. He has given us power, through our faith in Christ, to conquer the world.  Lord, increase our faith.

When you pray, do not pray as if your words are floating upward to be caught by God, or as if He has to strain to hear them, or do not think that only angels, clergy, dead saints or the mother of Jesus can intercede for you.  For we are His saints and His Holy Spirit, the living presence of God, is within us.  Through Christ, we are given the privilege of supplication, in His name. 

Acknowledge God's presence within you.  Center yourself and fill yourself with prayer.  Be filled with His Holy Spirit, who hears and acts on our behalf.  When we are in battle, just as Jesus prayed in the garden, we must fill each fiber of our being with prayer.  As the Body of Christ, we pray unceasingly.  Our lives become a prayer for the Kingdom.  How is this possible?  Through faith.

I pray that you have ears to hear what I tell you and through His Holy Spirit, it will be revealed as truth.  I tell you nothing new, for it is the spoken word of Jesus, that we are one.  Yet, it is one of many things that Satan does not want you to know or believe, so that we will remain divided and weak. 

Above all things, know this--no one can limit the power of God!  He is the same today as He was yesterday and will be forever more.  As He spoke to His people through His Holy Spirit, long ago, He continues to speak today.  Those who belong to Him, hear Him.

When we have true faith in God, we know that He is aware of our every need and will provide for us.  God wants to mature and equip us so that we can be used to meet the needs of others.  Let us, listen to His voice, so that our prayers reflect what is needed and our surrender to His will.

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Lord, let our life be hope for the downtrodden and those who have given up.

Use us Lord, to show true repentance, that you may be glorified and others will repent

May we be an example to show others how to forgive

Purify our hearts to love others as you love us

Create in us a clean spirit and a steadfast love

Use us, Lord, to comfort those in sorrow and distress

Use us, Lord, to feed the hungry and provide clothing and shelter

Use us, Lord, to heal the sick

Lord, let our life reflect the joy you have given us

Help us to live in truth and righteousness

Let us bring peace within a troubled world 

Strengthen us to be soldiers of light and vigilant watchmen

Use us, Lord, to protect your Kingdom

Keep us from the evil one 

Lord, help us to live a life of true discipleship to bring others to you

Help us to nurture and protect your children

Use us to feed your flock 

May we speak your Word boldly

Jesus, let our life show others that your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Although, they may be heavy laden with the cares of this world, when they take upon your yoke, they can stand in the knowledge that they have a Father in Heaven who holds us in His hands ; who will deliver us; and will never leave us alone.

Jesus, help us to abide in you.  Jesus, increase our faith.

We love you, Lord.  Where can we look without seeing the magnificent work of your hands? There is no love like yours that manifests itself so greatly to fill a universe.  Knowing you has given us life, whereas, we were unknowingly asleep with sin and death.  Now, there is no life without your truth and righteousness.   The world hangs upon the breath of your grace and mercy.  We hunger for your holiness and your living Word.

Father, awaken the sleeping and prepare us for the battles and trials ahead; for the time of spiritual war is at hand.  You have given us so many talents and skills to prepare the way.  Guide us, Lord.  Help us to equip those to come who must stand on the front lines until you come, Jesus.

In their time of struggle give them comfort in knowing that life on earth can be hard by choice or circumstance, but it is for a time and season.  But, God gives us assurance that through His grace and mercy, even the most wretched, hungry soul, tormented, abused or beyond pain, can find comfort in Christ who feeds the spirit and prepares a better place. 

Although a man be too weak to speak or unable to raise or fold a hand in prayer.  God hears the silence and feels the pain.  Others may look on him as hopeless and accursed, but this poor soul, through God has been blessed, for he lights the way for others to the Kingdom.

Help them light the way, Father.  This we humbly pray, in your name, Jesus

We submit ourselves to your will and your way.  United together.  We are One.

We give you all glory, honor and power, with praise,

 Have Thy Way Lord, We Stand Fast

Your servants, within Your Kingdom

Amen

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Finally, remember this--Our Lord, and Savior, Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of our faith.  Abide in Him and your faith will be perfected. You are never alone. We are One. (Hebrews 12:1,2)


1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

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AN ERA OF SPIRITUAL FAMINE

January 26, 2013

     Father, with so many people who profess to believe in you and your commandments, where is all the darkness coming from?  We are living in an era of spiritual famine.  The moral decay of society is felt world-wide.  Why has it spread so rapidly and gotten so out of control that it is seemingly inescapable?  Is there a lack of fertile ground for your word to take root?  Is there a drought that has dried up the land? 

     The world has a great number of places to worship, Father. Your word is broadcast on television and radio.  Satellites and internet carry your message to computers and wireless devices. There is no shortage of sermons and there are a plethora of books to lead people to you.  Billions of people have had an encounter with your word. 

      Nonetheless, the darkness in the world reflects an attitude of indifference to you and rejection of you, dear Lord.  Despite zealous practices of various religions and groups, claiming to uphold God's will, we find that they, too, are covered in darkness.  War, economic greed and hardship, along with social unrest have hardened people's hearts,  They wrestle with doctrine and legalism that keeps them divided.  They seek to limit the power of God, placing their faith in man and the world.  We  have built our Tower of Babel through globalization and the internet and now there is more confusion then ever before. 

     Jesus, the world has seen without believing and heard without understanding.  Many churches do not preach your Gospel because they can not resist the pleasures and ways of the world.  Many have not and will not understand your Gospel; that you came that we might conquer the world and enter the Kingdom here on earth.  Our salvation does not end with your crucifixion and resurrection. Nor do we have to wait for you to come back and make us perfect, then, take us  to heaven to live holy.  We are made perfect by abiding in you.  Through you, we conquer the world and live in holiness.  This is the Gospel that you have left us and we thank you, Lord.  We await the day of your return and prepare the way.  We thank you for providing a way for us to have abundant life in your Kingdom.  Help us to abide in you, as you abide in us. 

     If we do not abide in you, Jesus, we have no armor to conquer the world.  We have no anchor to weather the storms of life.  Although we fill ourselves with  food, wine, lust and material things, still, we remain spiritually starved.   

     Speak to us Lord. Open our hearts and minds that we may pour your Word upon the earth.  Speak to us Lord.  So that we may create fertile ground and your seed will not be scattered.  Fill us with your love, Father, so that when  we look upon someone, anyone, today, we will ask ourselves, "Do we really want them to die and go to hell...to suffer eternal damnation?"  

     Help us lift You up.  Help us to keep our lamp burning.  Help us to be vigilant watchmen and strong gatekeepers.  Let us not fall asleep when the hour has come for prayer.

 

     Many boast and say, "We have Jesus, what do we have to worry about?  Jesus paid it all.  All is forgiven.  He will always take care of us. "  

     Yes, Jesus, you did pay it all, but all to you I owe.  It is time to pay back. 

     Let this prayer be a light to stand against the darkness.  Let it be a sword of truth  and a shield of righteousness.  Let it be a trumpet to awaken those who are asleep in darkness.  Let it be a call to the righteous to put their hands to the plow, sow the seed and prepare for the increase.  Let it be a beacon to bring your sheep home.  

     Forgive us of our transgressions against you, oh Lord.  Help us to acknowledge you in all we say and do.  Increase our measure of faith, so that you may open up the doors of heaven, pour out blessings that fill up our cup and make it overflow.  Help us to love as you love and to forgive as you forgive. We bless you, Lord. We praise you, Lord.  We give you honor and glory.   In Jesus' name. Amen

 If no one is accountable, then who is to blame?

Who and what is to blame for the spiritual famine we are experiencing? Surely someone or something deserves the blame.  Man always looks for blame and finds it somewhere.  It is an old tactic man has used for ages. 

Like Cain, who slew his brother Abel, we continue to eschew responsibility for our actions and bestow blame on one another.  Where lies the blame? 

Cain answered God,  “Am I my brother's keeper?” (see Genesis 4:8-10).  

Adam blamed Eve, “...“The woman whom Thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate.” ( see Genesis 3:9-12). 

I wonder what would have happened if Adam would have sought God, confessed his sin, asked for forgiveness and repented?  Instead, knowing they had done wrong, Adam and Eve chose to hide.  Adam chose to hide in blame...blaming Eve for corrupting him.  Their choices became an important lesson in man's history, for we continue to hide in the darkness of blame.

Blame continues to be more of an answer and solution to the problems we face, while accountability to God is quickly being replaced by the popular ideology of Secularism, Humanism and religions based on prosperity and self-satisfaction. Diverting blame stems from man's pride and is the refuge to which he runs to escape truth and responsibility. This is where we find the world today, running from the light of the truth, and hiding in the darkness of blame. The darkness was always there, but accountability held it back.

"The watchmen have stopped watching and the gatekeepers are overcome, as the darkness attacks."

We can not remove the cornerstone that holds us up or forget our responsibility first and foremost to God.  In doing so, we forsake true worship and worship Him only with our lips.  While we place blame on others, God's children lay under siege and in bondage.  The watchmen have stopped watching and the gatekeepers are overcome as the darkness attacks.   Shrouds of darkness have blocked out the light, lulling people to sleep and many have never awakened.  When did this happen, you ask?  Why didn't I notice?  Aren't you exaggerating, panicking  and being too critical?  If these are the questions you are asking, then perhaps you too are asleep and while you sleep, the darkness continues to feed.  If you are blaming a political party, a group of people, drugs, alcohol, violence, pornography or anything else for the darkness, then perhaps, you too are trying to escape accountability.  There is one body and together we stand accountable.

We look to those in darkness to decide what is right and wrong for us and the world.  But, how can lovers of the world and darkness distinguish right from wrong?   They do good but know not from where it comes.  Their good is self-serving.  They lean back and say, "Look what I have done.  Why do I need God?"

Sowing and Expanding Fertile Ground

As the Body of Christ, we function together as a whole.  Blame is counterproductive, as it will effect the unity of the body.  Each member must support the other members and is accountable for the fortification and increase of the body.  If we walk in the light, as God walks in the light, we will fellowship, one with another.  We must act as a unified body, if we are to overcome the darkness.  God said, if we repent He will heal the land.  We can break the chains of blame through repentance and begin to spread light to create fertile and holy ground that produces righteousness. Darkness will not be able to withstand the Light of Truth.

 Many have become apathetic and stand idly by, thinking, " What will be, will be.  These are the end times and there is nothing we can do.  We must let things happen as they will happen."  Jesus said that those who stand firm till the end will be in His Kingdom.  Therefore, we must keep oil in our lamps and keep our lamps burning, awaiting the return of the Bridegroom.  We must continue to till the soil, remove the stumbling blocks and sow the seed (the Word of God and the Gospel of Jesus) to bring repentance and turn the children to the Father.   The road to repentance is paved with adversity but leads to increase and blessings.  To understand increase, is to know that through His grace and mercy, we have already been blessed.  Stand fast, my brothers and sisters--stand fast, immovable and unshakeable.

 By the grace and mercy of God
Your Servant
Mishael