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re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Overcoming the Temptation to Fear
Carter Conlon No one needs to convince you that the days ahead are going to be more difficult than ever — you already know it. Something inside your heart perceives it, in spite of the deepest optimism that many try to generate. Everything that can be shaken is about to be shaken. As the world’s culture is quickly spinning into something that is out of our control, we can be thankful that it is never out of God’s control. Jesus’ disciples once asked Him, “And what shall be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3). In Matthew 24:4-11, not only did Jesus foretell the wars, earthquakes, famines and outbreaks of disease that are unfolding before our eyes, but he also warned that in the last days, religious deception would reach epic proportions. The end-time strategy of Satan is clear: Divert those who are trying to find refuge during calamitous times by presenting a myriad of false Christ-options along the way. Satan himself is the author of much of the chaos in the world, and when the chaos begins to mount, he will put false signposts throughout the world that claim to point the way to Christ. Satan’s goal will be to confuse the people of God as well as the prodigals who are trying to come home to the safety of the presence of the Lord. The Scriptures bear witness that the battles we face are common to all men. There is no temptation that is unique to you (see 1 Corinthians 10:13), including the temptation to give in to fear. Even the apostle Paul expressed this common struggle when he said, “Outside were conflicts, inside were fears” (2 Corinthians 7:5). We see from Scriptures that in spite of some trepidation, Paul refused to draw back from whatever awaited him: “None of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy” (Acts 20:24). You may have a deep sense of foreboding because of world events, but those who know God will look at what the world sees as catastrophe and be able to embrace it in some measure as an opportunity for God to give us his grace to endure. In the midst of it all, we must be able to hear the word of the Lord to his church: “Fear not!” |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Confidence to Access God
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “According to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him” (Ephesians 3:11-12). God’s children have the right and freedom to break in on our Lord at any time — one of the greatest privileges ever bestowed on humankind. Our heavenly Father sits on his throne in eternity and at his right hand sits his Son, our blessed Lord and Savior, Jesus. Outside this throne room are gates, which open to all who are in Christ. At any time — day or night — we can bypass guardian angels, seraphim and all the heavenly hosts to boldly enter these gates and approach our Father’s throne. Christ has provided us direct access to the Father, to receive all the mercy and grace we need, no matter what our circumstance. This wasn’t always the case. In the Old Testament, with few exceptions, no person had access to the Father. Abraham was called a friend of God and enjoyed a measure of access to the Lord, but even he remained “outside the veil.” Moses, the leader of Israel, had unusual access to God, who said, “I, the Lord … speak with him face to face, even plainly, and not in dark sayings” (Numbers 12:6-8). But the rest of Israel knew nothing of this kind of access. Christ’s life in human flesh provided greater access to the Father, but even that was limited. At the moment of his death, however, the veil of the temple in Jerusalem was literally ripped apart and our destiny was sealed. When Jesus gave up the ghost, we were given total, unrestricted access to the holy of holies: “Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh” (Hebrews 10:19-20). Scripture admonishes us, “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith … Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (10:22-23). God is urging us, “Come into my presence often, daily. You can’t maintain your faith if you’re not drawing near to me. If you don’t boldly enter my presence, your faith is going to waver.” Determine in your heart to take full advantage of God’s great gift of access. Your eternal future depends on it! |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Grace for Your Suffering
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) Grace has often been defined as, simply, the unmerited favor and blessing of God. Yet, I believe grace is much more than this. It is everything that Christ is to us in our times of suffering — power, might, kindness, mercy and love — to see us through our afflictions and trials. Jesus says the rain falls on both the just and the unjust (see Matthew 5:45) — referring to given problems of life such as marriage problems, worries over children, financial pressures, sickness. And the righteous may battle against pride, depression and fear, feelings of inadequacy, oppression of the enemy. You may question why nations suffer — why there is such awful famine, pestilence, flooding, hunger, disease and destruction. Scripture sheds light on the world’s sufferings through its portrayal of God’s people, ancient Israel. That nation suffered similar calamities: holocausts, captivity, economic collapse, strange diseases. At times Israel’s sufferings were so horrible that even their enemies pitied them. Why did Israel suffer such terrible things? Scripture makes it clear in each instance that it was because they forsook God and turned to idolatry (see Deuteronomy 4:25-28). It is important to note, however, that along with every righteous judgment upon Israel came manifestations of divine grace in preserving a godly remnant, and fulfilling his divine purpose in and through them in spite of their failures (see 4:29-30). Even though the reason for our trials may remain a mystery, we should be prepared to accept them until Jesus comes for us. There will be no end to them, so the wise believer will determine in his heart to get to know Jesus more intimately and seek him as never before. Someday in glory, our heavenly Father will reveal to us the beautiful plan he had for us while we were going through hard times. He will show us how we attained patience through all our trials; how we learned compassion for others; how his strength was made perfect in our weakness; how we learned his utter faithfulness toward us; how we became more like him, our precious Lord and Savior. And until the day we meet him face to face, our loving heavenly Father says, “I have all the grace you need to overcome!” |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Embracing a Personal Relationship With Jesus
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) When Jesus was a young boy, a few people saw him in the temple; others met him in the carpentry shop where he toiled. But who could believe Jesus was God in flesh as he repaired their broken chairs? He was merely Joseph’s son, a fine young man who knew a lot about God. When Jesus began his ministry, he directed his words to a small population in a very small country — that is, to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And because he could be in only one place at a time, access to him was restricted. If you wanted to get to Jesus, you had to go to Judah, and if you lived outside of Israel, you had to travel for days or weeks by boat or camel or on foot. Then, you had to trace his presence to a village, find a crowd there and ask them to locate him. You might have to walk all day and night to get to where he was teaching the masses. Once you found Jesus, you had to be physically close to him to hear his voice, receive his touch, or be blessed by his holy presence. To get to the Lord, you had to be in the right place at the right time. Consider the blind man who heard Jesus passing by and cried out, “Jesus, heal me, that I may receive my sight!” Or, consider the woman with the issue of blood. She had to push through a crowd to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment, while all around others were also struggling to touch him. But all that changed in one sudden, glorious moment. “Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:50-51). This tearing of the physical veil represents what took place in the spirit world — when we were granted unrestricted and instant access to the Father on a blood-stained cross. This is a wonderful gift that has been granted to us, so be careful that you do not take it for granted or treat it casually. Our Savior urges us to draw near to him and we should do so with utmost reverence and devotion. Anywhere, anytime we can come to our Lord God our Father thru Jesus Christ our Savior. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
JOIN GOD’S PRAYING PEOPLE
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) By the time the godly prophet Daniel reached eighty years of age, he had outlived two Babylonian kings, Nebuchadnezzar and his son Belshazzar, and then served under King Darius. Daniel had always been a praying man and he had no thoughts of slowing down in his old age. King Darius had promoted Daniel to the highest office in the land, putting him in charge of forming government policy and teaching all the court appointees and intellectuals: “Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm” (Daniel 6:3). Obviously, Daniel was one busy prophet. But nothing could take this man of God away from his times of prayer. Three times a day, he stole away from all his obligations, burdens and demands as a leader to spend time with the Lord. Daniel is an example to us of how important it is to have praying leaders. Remember, he had been appointed over every other leader in the land. Consider the immense effort it took for Daniel to devote himself to prayer. After all, he lived in the New York City of his time — great, majestic, wealthy Babylon. And he lived in a time of spiritual apathy — of drunkenness, pleasure-seeking and greed among God’s people. Prayer does not come naturally to anyone, including Daniel. A disciplined prayer time is easy to start yet hard to maintain — both our flesh and the devil conspire against it. Prayer that is effectual comes from the faithful, diligent servant who sees his nation and the church falling deeper into sin and falls on his knees and cries out to God on their behalf. God strongly desires to bless his people but if our minds are polluted with the spirit of this world, we are in no position to receive his blessings. Will you be a part of God’s praying people today? If so, cry out to him, “Oh, Lord, whatever it takes, keep me on my knees. I long to see your Spirit moving in the hearts of men and women!” |
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Life Guided by Clear Purpose
Gary Wilkerson When you first came to know Jesus, your heart was probably filled with sharp, clear purpose. You experienced God's healing love and, like many new Christians, you longed to share it with others, evangelizing and serving. As you moved forward in this new life, you began to better discern your role in God’s kingdom and your gifts for serving him. But then something peculiar began to happen. Almost daily, your singular focus on Jesus got crowded out by other demands. Little things popped up that captured your attention and distracted you to the point that you slowly lost your single-mindedness. Sadly, Christ began to fade into the background of your attention. The Flying Wallendas, a family best known for performing high-wire acts without a safety net, demonstrate this need for laser-like focus. In June of 2013, Nik Wallenda added to his family’s legend by walking on a wire across a gorge in the Grand Canyon. With balance pole in hand and a gritty determination, he battled a fierce wind as he strode forward — and walked all the way across the chasm, never distracted for a moment. His focus was literally a matter of life and death! As Christians, we have an even higher calling and we must not become distracted to the point of meandering and mediocrity. John the Baptist would not allow himself to become distracted. When a theological dispute arose and several disciples tried to draw him into it, he would not allow it. He told them, “You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent from Him.’ … He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:28, 30). His focus in life was clear; his holy calling was centered completely on Jesus. Today, our success-driven culture causes us to seek things for ourselves. But our overriding passion must be for Christ and proclaiming the kingdom of God, just as John did. You can have God’s own Spirit without measure, to guide you in the purposes he has planned for you. Be sure that you keep your sights trained on Jesus and the fact that he is your primary reason for living! |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
The Evidence of Time Spent With Jesus
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) After Peter and John ministered to a crippled beggar outside the temple gate and the man was healed, they began to boldly preach repentance and minister to the people. “Many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand” (Acts 4:4). As a result of their witness, Peter and John were brought before the high priest and elders. “And when they had set them in the midst, they asked them, ‘By what power or by what name have you done this?’” (4:7). This hearing was orchestrated to intimidate Peter and John but it had the opposite effect. Peter must have thought, “Thank you, Jesus, for allowing me to preach your name to these Christ-haters.” This tells us that Peter wasn’t going to deliver a lecture, quiet and reserved. No, he was a Jesus-possessed man, bursting with the Holy Spirit, ready to proclaim the truth! Peter’s boldness wasn’t a brassy, condemning word, however. His aim wasn’t to judge or belittle those religious leaders. He only wanted them to see their sin and repent. That’s why he gave an altar call, saying, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (4:12). The rulers were astonished. “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained me, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus” (4:13). Peter must have winked at John and perhaps thought, “They remember that we were with Jesus weeks ago but they don’t realize we’ve been with the resurrected Master ever since.” The two men were just recently with him in the upper room and that morning, they were with him as they prayed in their cell. This is what happens with men and women who spend time with Jesus. Even when they come away from their time with Christ, he’s with them wherever they go. When the crisis strikes, you don’t have time to build yourself up in prayer and faith — those who have been with Jesus are always ready. Truly, this is a blessed assurance. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
God’s Light Alters Everything
Gary Wilkerson “Early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them” (John 8:2, NLT). Jesus’ reputation had spread far and wide because he spoke profound words and performed powerful works of God. Yet, no sooner had this crowd of commoners gathered than the religious leaders showed up. “As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd. ‘Teacher,’ they said to Jesus, ‘this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?’” (8:3-5). These leaders saw Jesus as a threat to their authority because he exposed their rigid, self-justifying practices and they were trying to trap him (see 8:6). The scene unfolded dramatically. Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger and, as they continued to demand an answer, he stood up and said, “All right, let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” Then he stooped again and wrote in the dust — and the accusers slipped away one by one. “Then Jesus … said to the woman, ‘Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?’ ‘No, Lord,’ she said. And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I. Go and sin no more’” (8:10-11). As Jesus defused a highly charged situation, he used the moment to deliver one of his most famous teachings: “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life” (8:12). God’s light in that moment altered everything! Jesus transformed every heart present — what an amazing moment. The powerful love behind God’s grace was revealed and in the crowd’s eyes this was a miracle that immediately transformed them. Jesus used that stunning moment to teach about the cross: “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand I am he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me … Then many who heard him say these things believed in him” (8:28-30). Every time you act as Jesus did, extending grace to those marginalized by sin, you take part in a great transformation. All through the amazing grace of our Savior! |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Jesus is Never Caught Off Guard
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “War broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail … So the great dragon was cast out … he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him” (Revelation 12:7-9). We are in a war between two powers: Satan’s principalities and powers, and God’s only Son, Jesus. This war started eons ago in heaven with the archangel Michael and an army of angels fighting against Lucifer and the rebellious angels who had aligned themselves with him. Satan lost the battle and was cast down to earth with the other insubordinate angels (who comprised a third of all the angels of heaven) and he began waging war against God’s people. He appointed demon-possessed people to be prophets, teachers, even rulers of nations, and he sent them forth to spread his unholy “gospel.” But the devil had a problem. He couldn’t win converts through his teachings or persuade anyone of his gospel because it didn’t produce life or provide peace, joy or power over enslaving sin. So he had to resort to warfare. The war Satan wages has always been against God’s people, those who believe and preach Jesus Christ as Lord. But our Lord is never caught off guard. He knows the end from the beginning and he knew Satan’s flood against the church had to be thwarted before it consumed them. The Lord proclaims: “The Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings … You shall trample the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet” (Malachi 4:2-3). When hell seems to have won, heaven will cry, “Help is on the way. Don’t fear! The gates of hell will not prevail against God’s people.” What a day it will be when evil men realize that the very name they tried to wipe out completely now stands before them as their Judge. Our Lord’s divinity will be undeniable and every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! Jesus asked the twelve disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” and Peter answered, “You are the Christ” (Mark 8:29). May our answer be the same as Peter’s — and may that be our confession before the whole world, now and forever. Jesus has won the war! |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
I am praying for our nation.
I agree that our nation is deep trouble and that we are in desperate need of God’s help. You can count on me. I am praying for our nation. I am praying for healing against the sickness of sin that has divided our country. I am praying for wisdom and direction for President Trump, Vice President Pence, for governors, mayors, and officials in cities experiencing destruction and civil unrest. I am praying that they will rely upon God in every situation and for the decisions they make. I am praying for comfort for George Floyd's family members. I am praying for God to pour out His Holy Spirit across our land and touch the hearts of people with peace and love for one another. I am praying that God will forgive our sins and heal our land. I am praying that God will change hearts and heal this divide in our nation. AMEN |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
You Have Access to God Today
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) Paul tells us God adopted us simply because he loves us: “According to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:5-6). You may say, “I know God’s Word says I’m accepted and I know Jesus gave me direct access to the throne of grace. But I’m too ashamed to draw near. I still struggle with powerful temptation and I still sin on occasion. The only prayer I can utter is, ‘God, help me.’” Answer this simple question: Do you love Jesus? Are you his child? Is he your high priest who intercedes for you? If so, the Scripture says it doesn’t matter what you’ve done. You have the right to enter into his presence, to find all the mercy and grace you need. In fact, it’s at just such a time that he acts as your high priest. “We do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weakness, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16). Christ is telling us, “I can discern your every thought, good or evil. I see every secret ambition, every secret lust and deed. Yet still I invite you to come boldly to my throne. I long to give you all the grace and mercy you so desperately need.” Some Christians think their prayers won’t be accepted because they’ve neglected to pray for too long. For months, even years, God’s Spirit has urged them to come closer but they have built up a reservoir of guilt which made them neglect to pray. “They go down again to the depths … Then they cry out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brings them out of their distresses. He calms the storm … Then they are glad” (Psalm 107:26- 30). You can trust God to love, forgive and care for you even though you’ve neglected him. If you can forgive a loved one who has hurt you, how much more will our loving Savior forgive and bless you — his beloved child! |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
This is a very good and interesting video and well worth the watch.....
When You see all these things...Know that Summer is Near! We Fly Soon!! Code:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrVAqWiwioE&feature=emb_title |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
A Growing Desire to be Holy
Jim Cymbala Holy, separated living isn’t preached about much anymore because we fear it might offend and not be visitor-friendly. But when the Spirit starts his work, we will always have a new desire for holiness and a quest for Christlikeness. “As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy’” (1 Peter 14-16). The world holy speaks of separation and purity. It must be important to God, for he tells us that “without holiness no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). Holiness is not a list of do’s and don’ts; rather, it is Christlikeness. As the Spirit works, we will have an increased desire to be holy like Christ. What else would the Holy Spirit do but impart his own nature into our lives? Once we trust Christ for salvation, God will begin to mold and shape us. Many experience a radical change when they first come to know Christ, but over time a battle between the flesh and the Spirit takes place. The apostle Paul wrote, “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want” (Galatians 5:17). Paul was writing to the saints in Galatia, but he acknowledged that they, like him, had to overcome a carnal undertow from inside that pulled against the Spirit’s purposes. Paul was not the only one who cautioned about sinful practices in the lives of believers. John reminded us of this truth: “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One” (1 John 2:1). John’s intention was plain — to inspire God’s people not to practice unrighteousness but to practice Christlike living. The Holy Spirit brings new sensitivity and conviction to us if we are really living under his control. Behavior, words, and attitudes that are unholy cause a reaction from the Spirit, who is holy. When you surrender your life to Christ, the Holy Spirit will lovingly send out cautions, warnings, and red alerts to keep you following his example. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
No Time for Timid Faith
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) Take a look at the current condition of our nation and the world. What do you see? Christ’s prophecy is being fulfilled before our very eyes: “On the earth distress of nations, with perplexity … men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken” (Luke 21:25-26). Paul also speaks of this time: “When they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). Paul is describing a people who live smugly and securely, boasting, “We’ve achieved success and peace. Everything is going along just fine.” Yet, at the very moment people feel most secure, destruction comes. Suddenly, the security they cherished vanishes and society is overwhelmed by fear. Yet we are not to fear. Paul told the Thessalonians they were being preserved in spirit, soul and body (see 5:23). God’s purpose behind it all is to “fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power” (2 Thessalonians 1:11). Paul was saying, “You’re being called to fulfill a work of faith — not a silent faith but one that demonstrates the power of Christ.” This is not a time for timid faith! Our Captain is calling us to stand up in the midst of a fearful society and engage in “power faith.” We are to make the declaration: “God sent me before you to … save your lives by a great deliverance” (Genesis 45:7). Our Lord is not surprised by anything happening today. When the world is reeling from disasters, with sorrows mounting on all sides, God will be calling forth faithful soldiers who have been trained for battle. These devoted men and women have endured trials and emerged with a sure faith. The power of God rests on them. Such power may not be seen on a grand scale; it may be seen only in simple ways: a quiet spirit, a smile in a sea of frowns; a rest of soul, mind and body as others tremble. All ministry comes from communion with the Father, so diligently seek him in prayer. Truly, you are called forth as a member of his company for such a time as this. |
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A Time For Prayer
God our heavenly Father, let your people, the salt and light in our nation and the world, be about your business of extraordinary love for one another. Help us to join in with and be the answer to your high priestly prayer -- that we might be one in you, just as you and the Father are one. May we endeavor to do so, that the world will take the gospel seriously as they see how we love one another even as you love us. Lord, revive your church and awaken our nation. May churches and families across America and the world observe the Call2Fall on June 28th, each member humbling him or herself on their knees before you in humble repentance. Help us to heed your warning and return to you with all our hearts. Help us to obey your command to love one another as you have loved us. With your abiding presence, we can lead others to know you and to learn of your love. In Jesus name we pray. Amen Rev. Pierre Bynum |
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re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
I truly love this song....
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re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Jesus Desires to Be Near to Us
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “Which of you, having a servant plowing or tending sheep, will say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come at once and sit down to eat’? But will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare something for my supper, and gird yourself and serve me till I have eaten and drunk, and afterward you will eat and drink’? Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not. So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do’” (Luke 17:7-10). We know the master is Jesus and the servant here represents every believer. The servant works hard all day and when he is finished, he needs nourishment. He expects to hear his master commend him for his hard labor and offer him food to refresh him. But instead, the master commands, “Put on your apron and serve me first. Then you can eat.” At first glance this command seems harsh and demanding, yet nothing could be further from the truth. What is actually being said is, “Put God’s kingdom first and then everything will be given to you.” He had already told his disciples, “I have called you friends” (John 15:15). And now he is saying, “You’re my servants, but I call you friends. And there’s a need in me that only your friendship can meet. Yes, I know you’ve been out in the fields all day working, but I want you to sit at my table — there’s so much on my heart I want to tell you.” This should change how you view communion and revolutionize your prayer life. Clearly, this parable is about feeding Christ and, evidently, our Lord views this act as our highest calling. You may object, “I thought our highest calling was to go into the harvest fields to labor.” That is certainly a high calling, but Jesus says it is not the highest. “The high calling of God in Christ Jesus,” as Paul refers to it in Philippians 3:14, is to have communion and intimacy with Christ. Jesus says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). It should deeply humble us that Jesus would want to be near us and speak with us. |
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Quote:
I Know This Much Is True S1.EP3; I Know This Much Is True (2020) But I cant trace the singer or a video of it on You Tube. You should watch that show. It is a deeply moving and sad story of a brother trying to look after his mentally ill brother and getting little help from authorities.. Let me know by pm if you want links my friend...:) |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Safety in the Secret Place
Claude Houde “Lord, what is going on? Is there any safe place?” This was the cry of my heart as I observed the falling away of people who had been very influential in my life. My heart was broken and confused, and my spirit was wrestling within me. God led me to Psalm 91, an extraordinary psalm that gives us incredible insight. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (91:1). The word abide in the Hebrew means to claim — claim your possession, take up residence, defend in order to regain property. It literally says, “This is mine. This is my place. This is where I’m going to stay — my dwelling place.” The believer cries, “The secret place is my place! Underneath a shadow is my safe place. Close to Him is the place where I’m safe.” Verse 13 says, “You shall tread upon the lion and the viper, the young lion and the dragon you shall trample underfoot.” This is poetic language, prophetic and preventive — symbolic language that brings spiritual light. In this case, the viper represents the sudden trap that attacks God’s promises in our lives. The lion is a satanic trap that attacks God’s plans and purposes. The young lion is the seemingly small trap that attacks the purity of God in our lives. And the dragon is the silent trap that attacks the peace of God in our lives. But the Word says you shall tread upon all of them! You shall tread upon the viper, that sudden trap you didn’t see coming. You’re walking with God and something hits you that takes your breath away. Perhaps your boss calls you in and tells you he has to let you go. You think of your family and the thought just grabs you in the throat. At such a moment, the enemy seems to have a capacity to erase God’s promises — if we let him. But God tells us how to overcome: “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation” (91:14-16). Don’t let Satan steal your promises! God’s Word is sure and steadfast and he is faithful to you, his beloved child. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Guidance From the Great Shepherd
Gary Wilkerson Our Shepherd is a faithful guide to us in all things, no matter how faulty our decisions. Indeed, he says, “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life” (John 10:10). Everyone knows the importance of having a quality guide. Think about the important life decisions you’ve made. Were the ones guiding you experienced, skilled and knowledgeable in getting you where you wanted to go? God uses his children to help others along the way, but Jesus gives the most succinct and direct guidance of all when he says very simply, “Follow me” (Matthew 9:9). Jesus illustrates the rich, satisfying life he has for us by using the image of a sheep pen. “Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures” (John 10:9, NLT). There in the pen, his sheep are safe from all enemies as they feed on the “good pastures” of God’s kingdom, enjoying health, peace and freedom. Satan seeks to steal from us the life God has designed for us. “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy” (10:10). He does this by seeking to remove us from the “good pasture” (i.e., crucial spiritual food) that Jesus has given us. Immature Christians are most susceptible, as long as they remain on a diet of “milk,” never advancing to the meat of God’s Word. They are especially subject to Satan’s wiles in times of crisis, becoming paralyzed with fear and worry, thinking, “I don’t know how to make a decision. Where are you, God?” Scripture tells us there is wisdom in a multitude of counselors (see Proverbs 11:14). God uses the godly guidance of a faithful pastor, a professional counselor or even devoted Christian friends. The difference with Jesus is that he is always there for us: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep” (10:11). If you want true guidance in life, get to know your Shepherd’s voice. Do you need direction in your life? Then go back to those two simple words of the Master: “Follow me.” Keep your eyes on Jesus and focus on what his Word says. He never fails you, never leaves you, and always has your best in mind. |
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God-Given Plans Against Satan’s Tactics
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) Paul wrote two letters to the Corinthians that contained powerful teachings. He taught about the resurrection, the coming of the Lord, the judgment seat of Christ, death to sin, righteousness by faith, and heaven and hell. Faithfully, Paul warned these people, wooed them, pleaded with them. Without question, no other body of believers had been so lovingly pastored, so well taught, and so edified by the gospel of grace. Moreover, the Corinthians were blessed beyond Paul’s teaching. They had experienced powerful workings of the Holy Spirit in their midst and been endowed with many spiritual gifts. This was a vibrant, prophetic, on-fire church! Yet, incredibly, a number of these same blessed believers were living in immorality. Paul had accused many of them of being “unclean” (2 Corinthians 12:21) and he wrote, “This will be the third time I am coming to you … I have told you before … that if I come again I will not spare … Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction” (13:1-2, 10). Paul was not mincing words. He was essentially saying, “Twice now I’ve warned you of the sin in your congregation. You have sat under godly, convicting preaching and partaken of God’s gift of grace. Yet some of you have twisted that grace by deliberately continuing to live in uncleanness.” Every Sunday, professing Christians gather to worship, hear God’s Word and enjoy fellowship. Yet many of these same people lead sin-filled lives. Jude warns, “Certain men have crept in unnoticed … ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ” (verse 4). In other words, people will attempt to distort and pervert all reverence for the things of God. Jude gives three defenses against Satan’s seductions in Jude 20-21:
Each of us has within us the ability to pray, to read God's Word, and to look for Jesus' soon return. If we do these things, Jude declares, we'll reap the benefits of this prayer: "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy" (Jude 24). |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
A Testimony like Enoch
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, ‘and was not found, because God had taken him’; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God” (Hebrews 11:5). Enoch had intimate communion with his heavenly Father and his life is yet another testimony of what it means to truly walk in faith. His fellowship with God was so intimate that the Lord translated him to glory long before his life on earth might have ended. Why did the Lord choose to translate Enoch? The opening words of this verse tell us very plainly that it was because of his faith. Moreover, the closing phrase tells us Enoch’s faith pleased God. That is something every Christian believer should aspire to. The Greek word for “pleased” used here means fully united, wholly agreeable, in total oneness. In short, Enoch had the closest possible communion with the Lord that any human being could enjoy. And this intimate fellowship with God was pleasing to the Father. The Bible tells us Enoch began walking with the Lord after he begot his son, Methuselah, who lived be 969 years of age. You might remember Methuselah as being the oldest man recorded in the Bible (Genesis 5:27). Enoch was sixty-five at the time of his son’s birth and then he spent the next 300 years fellowshipping with God. Hebrews makes it clear that Enoch was so in touch with the Father, so close to him in hourly communication, that God chose to bring him home to himself. In essence, the Lord was saying to Enoch, “I can’t take you any further in the flesh. In order to increase my intimacy with, I must bring you home to my side.” So he whisked Enoch away to glory! To our knowledge, Enoch never performed a miracle, never developed a profound theology, never did any great works worthy of mention in Scripture. However, we read this simple description of this faithful man’s life: “Enoch walked with God.” Can you imagine having this said about you? Does your heart yearn for a closer walk with the Lord? Is there a growing dissatisfaction in you with the things of this world? True faith is found in waiting on your Savior, ministering to him until you hear and know his heart. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Because You Seek Jesus
Carter Conlon “Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments. His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed” (Psalm 112:1-2). Within these verses, the Lord assures us of the security of those who are godly. There is a reason to walk with God, a reason to read the Bible and pray. God says that He will bless your children, even if they are no longer under your roof. Start walking with God, going into the prayer closet and doing what the Scripture says, and you will soon realize that God is not limited as we are. “Surely he will never be shaken; the righteous will be in everlasting remembrance. He will not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord” (112:6-7). For those seeking the Lord, freedom from fear will be a heritage. Those who are right with God will not be afraid of whatever comes on the news tomorrow or happens in the world around them. When Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James went to the tomb after Jesus was crucified, an earthquake had just occurred, and an angel of the Lord had rolled away the stone from the entrance to the tomb. When this happened, the Bible tells us the “guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint” (Matthew 28:4, NLT). Notice what happened next! The two Marys heard the voice of the angel speaking to them, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus” (28:5). I believe the same will happen in our day as people shake in fear as they witness great calamities on the earth. Those who have chosen to follow God will be able to hear and believe as the Lord speaks to them: “Don’t fear because I know you seek Jesus.” I believe every believer comes to a point of decision where he determines to go all the way with God, a decision that affects the rest of his life. If there is sin in your life, get rid of it quickly! Instead make the choice today to say, “I will not justify wrong in my life. By the grace of God, I am going to trust him for the power to finish this journey in victory.” |
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Dealing With Feelings of Disappointment With God
Gary Wilkerson “I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you” (John 6:26-27). Jesus had just miraculously fed a crowd of thousands, amazing and thrilling the people. They were ready to eagerly follow this wonder-working Messiah — until he challenged them about what they were really after. Then their adulation turned to scorn, and they turned and left him by the droves. A question that every Christian faces early on in his walk with the Lord is, “Who is in charge of my life, me or Jesus?” Do we allow God to have total direction of our lives or do we try to determine for ourselves what God wants of us? The people in this scene were quick to follow Christ but they were just as quick to reject him. Jesus knew this would happen, that’s why on the heels of performing a great miracle for those multitudes, he confronted them: “I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs” (see 6:26). Is the same true of us today? What happens to our faith commitment if things don’t come to pass for us as we anticipated? Do we follow Jesus mainly because of who he is or because of his blessing? The Lord won’t bend to our lusts to give us everything we want, when we want it. His desire is to have a relationship with us — an ongoing, long-term relationship that bears lasting fruit. His blessings are signs of his faithfulness and compassion. As the crowds began leaving, Christ turned to the twelve disciples and asked them, “Are you going to leave as well?” (see 6:67). This is a question for every hurting Christian today — everyone whose prayer hasn’t been answered the way they’ve wanted; in other words, everyone who is disappointed with God. In such times, we are all tempted to give up and turn away. Praise God, our faith commitment isn’t based on what God gives us but on our relationship with him and who we know him to be: compassionate, merciful and faithful. And best of all, this relationship doesn’t hinge on our performance but on his faithfulness. Friend, hold on to your faith! Your heavenly Father is continually at work on your behalf. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Responding to God’s Judgement
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “A lion has roared! Who will not fear? The Lord God has spoken! Who can but prophesy?” (Amos 3:8). Of all the Old Testament prophets, Amos speaks most clearly to our times. The prophecy he delivers zeroes in on our generation as if it were ripped from today’s headlines. Indeed, Amos’ message is a dual prophecy, meant not only for God’s people in his day but also for the church right now, in our time. Amos described God as a roaring lion, ready to strike Israel with judgment. The Lord was using Amos to awaken Israel with the message that God was about to send judgment on his people because of their overwhelming evil and corruption. The Lord never judges a people without first raising up prophetic voices to warn them. “Surely the Lord God does nothing unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets” (3:7). As Amos saw the cloud of judgment gathering, he was compelled to speak: “If the trumpet is blown in a city, will not the people be afraid?” (3:6). Amos’ message here is chilling: “God has sounded a trumpet of warning to his people but no one is alarmed.” Sadly, too many Christians have become biblically illiterate, open to great deception, and our nation has become pleasure-mad. But God still has a holy, separated remnant, those who aren’t caught up in worldly pursuits; they’re brokenhearted before the Lord and have a holy reverence of him. Think about the events unfolding in our nation at this moment. Few want to hear a message having to do with judgment even though our nation is filled with fear. People are even saying, “I can’t handle any more.” But the Lord speaks when he will and his Spirit provides us strength to hear his Word, as delivered by his anointed servants. Our Lord will faithfully empower his people to endure whatever may come. So, what are believers to do? Heed Amos’ warning and follow his message: Seek the Lord with all your heart; allow yourself to be judged by his Word; and confess and forsake your sin. Then God will bless you with discernment and you can walk in total assurance of his presence and safety. |
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Obtaining Joy in the Darkest of Times
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “The ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Isaiah 35:11). In this passage, Isaiah is telling us that in the midst of the dark times to come, some of God’s elect are going to awaken and lay hold of the Spirit of Christ. When they do so, the Holy Spirit will cause a spirit of joy and gladness to reside in them so deeply that no condition, circumstance or person will be able to steal their joy. There may be no joy in our wicked society, among the ungodly, or even in dead, formal churches. But Isaiah speaks a word of hope to the righteous: “Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, you people in whose heart is My law” (51:7). God is speaking here to all those who know and obey him. We who know Christ’s righteousness are not to live as those who are without hope. We have been blessed with both the love and fear of God, and his will for us in the darkest times is to obtain his joy. Even as we see judgment falling around us, we are to sing, shout and rejoice — not because judgment has come, but in spite of it. God reminded his people, “[I] made the depths of the sea a road for the redeemed to cross over” (51:10. He was saying, “I’m still the Lord, the worker of miracles, and my arm is still strong to deliver you.” So, what does God want his people to know in light of this truth? He says it all in one verse, Isaiah 51:11:
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Learning to Soar by Walking First
Tim Dilena “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, KJV). This is one of the most amazing verses in the Bible, and we read it all wrong. We fixate on “they shall mount up with wings as eagles” and skip over the walk and run portions. But flying like an eagle is not our goal. Actually, most days we may not feel like flying — but we can take one step at a time with our Savior. Paul says, “Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). Notice he says, “walk” in the Spirit, not fly in the Spirit. We don’t start out at a sprint or in the air as the eagle. Christianity is a walk of faith, not a run of faith. It may sound boring but it’s effective. “For we walk by faith” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Walking means doing basic, simple things to honor God — things such as deciding to pray, going to church, telling your loved ones you love them, making breakfast for your family, picking up your Bible to read. Every act of obedience is a step and every step will turn into your Spirit-walk. When you take one small step of obedience, God blesses it. You may not feel like raising your hands in worship to the heavenly Father but you put forth a little effort because you love him — and God does the rest. You may not feel like being kind or reaching out to someone, but you do it because you have compassion and want to please Jesus. Paul instructs us to take just one step at a time. Put one foot in front of the other and these steps become our walk. Those who walk are the ones who last. Those who try to run and fly usually tire out and are never seen again. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German pastor and theologian, said it well: “One act of obedience is better than one hundred sermons.” Today, determine to let God lead you step by step as you pursue your walk with him. Walk by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7); run the race with endurance (Hebrews 12:1); and then soar like an eagle (Isaiah 40:31). |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
A long but must see video......time is just way too short.
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Fanned into Flame
Gary Wilkerson When it comes to our walk with Christ, the Bible shows us there is a crucial difference between a spark and a torch, which we can see when we examine the lives of Saul and David. Saul had amazing experiences with God, moments that ignited in him a great zeal and provoked him to action. “Then the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he became very angry. He took two oxen and cut them into pieces and sent the messengers to carry them throughout Israel with this message: ‘This is what will happen to the oxen of anyone who refuses to follow Saul and Samuel into battle!’” (1 Samuel 11:6-7). After each of Saul’s many moments of anointing in his life, he drifted from his passion for the Lord. One well-known instance of disobedience is when God commanded Saul to slay Agag, the enemy king he had captured, and to destroy all the spoils of battle. But Saul spared Agag and kept some of the spoils and in so doing, quenched the Holy Spirit’s work in his life (see 1 Samuel 15:8-10). On the other hand, we see David raised up to be Israel’s next king. As his reputation for bold obedience grew, so did the fruit of his obedience, which made Saul jealous. At one point Saul intended to kill David and trapped him in a cave. Yet the Lord was gracious, stopping Saul before he could execute his plan. Simply put, Saul was bent on backsliding but the Lord’s mercy returned to him repeatedly. David had the same spiritual experiences that Saul did, yet the spark that David received was fanned into a flame. “As David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on” (16:13). The phrase “from that day on” shows the difference in David’s and Saul’s lives. Once David received a spark from God, he guarded it, stoked it and fueled it. He determined, “I want this spark to increase into a burning flame for the Lord.” Pray with me today, “God, thank you for touching me with the Holy Spirit. Anoint me with power to reach out to those around me and grace to show forth the compelling love of Jesus.” |
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Prayer
Father, your word is so clear regarding the sanctity of human life and the sanctity of human sexuality as within the bond of marriage between a man and woman. You warn individuals and societies who would dare to normalize sexual behavior outside the limits of your moral law that they will reap what they sow and ultimately give an account of their choices to you. As the Supreme Judge of all the earth, you hold earthly judges to an even higher account because of the impact of their decision on others. God, speak to each of our Justices; grant that each may experience the "fear of the Lord." Help our courts to hold your moral law and the Constitution in higher regard than "stare decisis" when dealing with cases decided wrongly in the past. Motivate your people to pray for the Supreme Court, its individual members, and future nominees. Grant us the faith you gave the widow in Luke 18:1-8 to never to give up. Amen Rev. Pierre Bynum Chaplain & National Prayer Director |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
“God, thank you for touching me with the Holy Spirit...
So very true Tarfoot and thanks.. Do you know any prayers about Angels? I do believe we all have one.. Here is a wonderful quote I found for those that have lost loved ones; https://cdn.quotesgram.com/img/34/76...rip-poems3.gif |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
God Will Never Give Up on You
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “For the Lord loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever” (Psalm 37:28). Once God touches and possesses someone, it’s for a lifetime. The Lord will never surrender to Satan what is his. You may falter, fail or fall into devastating sin, but once God possesses you, he will never, ever give up on you. Also, when he possesses you, he prepares you for ever-increasing usefulness. Think back to the time when God came to you and supernaturally touched your soul. He called you to himself and filled you with his Spirit, while making a commitment to you: “I claim you; you are my possession.” Suddenly, God took control of your life and nothing was going to change that fact. You became God’s purchased possession: “The church of God which He purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). The Creator of the universe bought you with the price of his own blood and nothing has power over that blood. Satan himself may ensnare you in a hellish trap and yet, just as he thinks he has you, God says, “No, devil, you can’t have him. He’s mine. I’ve purchased him and you must release my property.” God is preserving you, preparing you for his best. David was a God-possessed man. Even though he was a giant killer, an anointed psalm writer, and a great king, he battled a fierce compulsion in his heart. At the very height of God’s blessing and favor, he was overtaken by a violent attack of lust. He fell into sin with another man’s wife and even had the woman’s husband murdered in battle. David suffered dire consequences for his sin but God preserved him through the ordeal. In fact, David was prepared for even greater ministry after his fall. His voice was heard throughout the land as never before and today we read his anointed words in the Psalms. The truth that God revealed to David through his trial is still being preached today. Remember, the Lord will never give up on you no matter what struggle you face. You are the Lord’s, so receive his love, power, forgiveness and freedom! “For the Lord will not cast off His people, nor will He forsake His inheritance” (Psalm 94:14). |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Power to Prevail in Prayer
Jim Cymbala The apostle Paul, writer of most of the New Testament, made an extraordinary admission in Romans: “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans” (Romans 8:26). Notice the key phrases: “We do not know what we ought to pray for.” That is written in first person plural — Paul included himself! The mightiest apostle in history didn’t know how to properly pray? “The Spirit helps us in our weakness.” Are we all really so spiritually frail that we need assistance from God to simply pray the right way? “The Spirit helps us.” All power is in the Holy Spirit, including the grace to pray right so that God can hear and answer. The Spirit helps us to do prayer, to get away from the bustle of life and get alone with God. He reveals our critical need of daily grace by contrasting God’s strength with our human frailty. He draws us gently to our Source and helps our hearts to sincerely bow, believe and petition at God’s throne. Many times, we face situations in life that are quite complicated and we are unsure what we should pray for — there is no obvious right or wrong choice. Maybe an opportunity arises for a short-term mission trip or a rebellious child gets into trouble with the law. What is God’s will in those situations? How should we pray? That is where the Holy Spirit helps us by revealing God’s will and granting us the faith to pray in the right direction. The prayer of faith moves mountains (Mark 11:23-24; James 5:15). The Spirit alone makes the power of God so real to our inner person that we are enabled to ask, seek, and knock with bold assurance. This is another reason why the deepest truths and secrets of prayer can never be learned by lectures, teaching tapes, or books. Prayer is learned by praying, and the heart usually learns faster than the head. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). The Holy Spirit marries prayer and faith together within us, and brings about life-changing results. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Do watch at least the first 30 minutes of Pastor J.D.'s video. It is a real eye opener with those with eyes to see.
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The Father is Tending Your Growth
Gary Wilkerson “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches” (John 15:1-5). On Jesus’ final night with his disciples, after they finished supper, he asked them to walk with him so that he could impart one last teaching. “Rise, let us go from here” (John 14:31). As they walked, Jesus summed up our relationship to him and the Father. The vine is Jesus — the source of all life flowing into us — and we are the branches extending from him. Overseeing all this life-flow is our heavenly Father, the gardener who tends to our growth. Could there be any more serene image of our life in Christ? Yet, also embedded in this analogy is a different kind of image: “Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away” (15:2). Many Christians flinch at this verse; nobody likes the thought of being “taken away” by God. This verse is reason enough to cling to a performance-driven religion, a system by which it can be measured whether we’re bearing fruit or not. Our compassionate, loving Lord, however, is more than a life source to us — he is the life source. Other “vines” may promise life but none contain true life as he does. Christians may seek life from sources that seem good and legitimate — ambition and drive, success and comfort — but these vines in themselves are lifeless. Jesus wants us grafted into him so that we may drink deeply of his abundant life every day. The vinedresser, our heavenly Father, tends his garden lovingly and perfectly, putting the right things into place to make them grow. But the good vinedresser also prunes — and that can be painful. However, Jesus makes it very clear that as we abide in him, the pruning will bring forth fruit that is glorious and could not have been produced on its own. Jesus gave his disciples these beautiful, parting words: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (15:11). |
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Christ Shining Through Our Sufferings
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) No one on earth can place you in ministry. You may be given a diploma by a seminary, ordained by a bishop, or commissioned by a denomination. But Paul reveals the only source of any true call to ministry: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry” (1 Timothy 1:12). What does Paul mean here when he says Jesus enabled him and counted him faithful? Three days after the apostle’s conversion, Christ placed Paul in the ministry — specifically, the ministry of suffering: “For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake” (Acts 9:16). This is the very ministry Paul refers to when he says, “Therefore, since we have this ministry” (2 Corinthians 4:1). He continues, “As we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.” He is talking about the ministry of suffering and he makes it clear that it is a ministry we all possess. Paul tells us that Christ pledged to remain faithful to him and enable him through all his trials. The Greek word for “enable” means a continual supply of strength. So, Paul is saying, “Jesus promised to give me more than sufficient strength for the journey. He enables me to remain faithful in this ministry and because of him, I won’t faint or give in!” By his own admission, Paul was not an eloquent speaker. He had cast aside all his worldly training and his own human brilliance. He said he preached through weakness, in fear and trembling. Even Peter said Paul spoke things that were hard to understand (see 2 Peter 3:15-16). His ministry was the outshining of Christ — which was produced in him through great sufferings. This great apostle impacted his age incredibly and continues to impact even our generation by the way he responded to his trials. Paul often spoke of “Christ in me” by which he meant, “You see a human being standing before you. But God has led me through great trials, and those sufferings have produced in me the character of Christ. That’s what you see shining from my life. Only the faithful enabler can produce this in a life; only he can give his servants a song and a testimony in the midst of every trial.” Hallelujah! |
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Our Need for Godly Fellowship
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life … I am the living bread which came down from heaven … he who feeds on Me will live because of Me’ (John 6:35, 51, 57). The image of bread here is important. Our Lord is telling us, “If you come to me, you’ll be nourished. You’ll be attached to me, as a member of my body. Therefore, you’ll receive strength from the life-force that is in me.” Indeed, every member of his body draws strength from a single source: Christ, the head. Everything we need to lead an overcoming life flows to us from him. This bread is what distinguishes us as members of his body. We are set apart from the rest of humanity because we dine from a single loaf: Jesus Christ. “We all partake of that one bread” (1 Corinthians 10:17). The apostle points out, “We, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another” (Romans 12:5). In other words, we are not just connected to Jesus, our head, but we’re also joined to each other. The fact is, we can’t be connected to him without also being joined to our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are knit together not only by our need for Jesus, but by our need for each other. Paul states, “The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you’; nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you’” (1 Corinthians 12:21). Note the second half of the verse. Even the head can’t say to another member, “I don’t need you.” What an incredible statement. Paul is telling us, “Christ will never say to any member of his body, ‘I have no need of you.’” Our head willingly connects himself to each of us; moreover, he says we’re all important, even necessary, to the functioning of his body. It is absolutely vital that we gather together in Jesus’ name, for each other’s sake. As brothers and sisters in Christ we are to reach out to one another in love and concern, seek fellowship with others, and support each other in prayer. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Having a Life That Pleases the Lord
David Wilkerson (1931-2011) “I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ” (Romans 15:29). In writing these words to the Christians in Rome, Paul was telling them, “I have no doubt that when I meet you, it will be in the fullest measure of Christ’s blessing.” The apostle’s words here imply something that every believer must know; that is, there are varying degrees, or measures, of Christ’s blessing. Some believers obtain a full measure of this blessing, which is the goal, of course. Yet other Christians enter into only a small measure of his blessing — but we can all pursue the fullness. Paul makes it clear that we all have the same access to the Lord: “There is one body and one Spirit … one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:4-6). We all have an equal opportunity to obtain his ever-increasing blessing. Indeed, our lives should continually increase in what Paul calls “the blessing of Christ.” The blessing of Christ means having a life that is pleasing to the Lord. It’s an inner knowing from the Holy Spirit that as God looks on your life, he says, “I’m pleased with you, my child. There is nothing between us to hinder our communion and relationship.” The writer of Hebrews sums up the fullness of Christ’s blessing this way: “The God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever” (Hebrews 13:20-21). People who live in this fullness of blessing have about them an aroma of having been with Jesus. Like Paul, they have a divine dissatisfaction with this life, a longing to be in the presence of Christ, a hunger to obtain more and more intimacy with him. Let us strive to be like these believers — determined to finish our walk of faith and ministry in a way that is pleasing to God. |
re: Power of Prayer >No Matter Which Faith YouFollow=GOD is With You
Which Path Will You Choose?
Claude Houde “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night” (Psalm 1:1-2). Psalm 1 is a wisdom psalm and contains two contrasting ways of life in the pursuit of happiness. Most theologians believe the psalm was written by David; it is literally the gateway to fulfillment and abundant life. So, the blessed man delights in the law of the Lord — in his promises, his word, his kingdom, his heart for his people, his commands. And this man shall be “like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper” (1:3). In contrast, “The ungodly are not so, but are like the chaff which the wind drives way. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish” (1:4-6). The psalmist says, “You must choose what your pursuit will be.” He differentiated between the two lifestyles, one like a tree planted by the rivers of water and the other like chaff in the wind. The way of life that leads to blessedness, vitality, productivity, security, joy, fulfillment, accomplishment and satisfaction goes even beyond peace of mind and quietness of heart. You will find deep and authentic happiness if you have a basic biblical understanding of where it is found. Proverbs 4:20-26 says, “My son, give attention to my word; incline your ear to my sayings … Keep your heart with all diligence … Let your eyes look straight ahead … Ponder the path of your feet.” The Word of God is full of instruction and guidance — far more than enough to keep you on the path of righteousness. Social media with its hollow, meaningless pastimes can eat up your time. Mindless entertainment can cheapen and weaken your soul. It is each person’s responsibility to choose which pursuit he will follow. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). The Word of God is clear; the choice is yours! |
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