GOD is Speaking in these “PERILOUS DAYS” by HIS SON

God is Love yet He is also a God of wrath!

 

It is important to know that God is patient and that “GOD IS LOVE!”   But it is just as important to know that God is also a God of wrath.  He has given us His Word by which we can better understand who He is.   His Word teaches us who we are in Him or who we can become. God’s Word is our necessary essential spiritual food for our mind, body and souls.

 

There is much going on in the world. today. God’s Word is being fulfilled right in front of our eyes. In His Word we can discover a wealth of spiritual wisdom. It is through His ever lasting wisdom we are able to be disciplined and develop healthy boundaries. It is important to stand upon the Word of God. For this world is on a ” Slippery Slope. ” As believers we must spend time daily in God’s Word. For by His Word we are also able to better grow in His grace, peace, love and understanding. But we must embrace and implement His principles.

 

 

Know your Potential in God Your Heavenly Father

 

Each day we should strive for the perfection that is attainable in God. For in the Lord we can be complete. As believers He bestowed upon us His precious Holy Spirit to lead us to all TRUTH! You can be or become secure in God. Everything we need we can discover in Him. He is never far from us. His Word speaks volumes about becoming perfect in Him which is quite often overlooked or misconstrued. God says;

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5

 

God’s Word is a message to His Church and to the world.

 

“… ALL SCRIPTURE IS GIVEN BY INSPIRATION OF GOD, AND IS PROFITABLE FOR DOCTRINE, FOR REPROOF, FOR CORRECTION, FOR INSTRUCTION IN RIGHTEOUSNESS, THAT THE MAN/W0MAN OF GOD MAY BE PERFECT, THOROUGHLY FURNISHED UNTO ALL GOOD WORKS.’’ II TIMOTHY 3

 

There are countless examples within the Word to help us to grow and mature spiritually.  In Jonah, Nahum and Jeremiah we are given several wonderful examples. Here we can see how the people lived when good kings ruled and when bad kings ruled.  What happened when they obeyed GOD and when they disobeyed as well as the consequences.

 

God spoke to His people for many years through His many prophets, prophetess, elders and priests all throughout the Old Testament. They repeatedly tried to warn the people of what was to come.

Many of the messages were not usually readily received. Today they would also be considered to be very negative. God’s Messages even when they were not what the people wanted to hear were always out of His Love and concern for their well-being. Make sure whatever you are doing that it is in the Will of GOD.

 

The Prophet Jonah’s second Commission

 

Nineveh was the prospering, luxurious capital city of the Assyrian Empire. The people of Nineveh had turned their back on God. Jonah was sent by God to warn Nineveh of what was to come. The first time Jonah disobeyed God and instead he fled to Tarshish. Well, during a fierce storm he was thrown overboard off the ship. Jonah knew that the storm was because of him. He actually told the mariners to throw him overboard. “And he said to them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea, so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know for my sake this great temptest is upon you…” Jonah 1

 

The mariners tried to keep steering the ship anyway but the storm was too fierce. They even cried out to the Lord and pleaded with Him to no avail… So the mariners had to eventually toss Jonah overboard. Well, when they did the sea stopped raging. Jonah was then swallowed up by a humongous big fish. This big fish had actually been prepared beforehand by God himself to transport Jonah. He vehemently prayed to the LORD while inside the fish. After three days and three nights inside the belly of this fish, it amazingly spat Jonah out miraculously upon the dry land… This time Jonah obeyed and went on to preach in Nineveh as God had told him to do.

 

This is what the LORD told Jonah to do;

“Arise go unto Nineveh , and preach unto it the preaching I have bid thee. So Jonah arose, and went unto Nineveh, according to the WORD of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceeding great city of three days journey.

And Jonah began to enter into the city a days journey, as he cried, and said. Yet forty days and Nineveh will be destroyed. ” Jonah 3

Nineveh had been warned by a reluctant Jonah of their forthcoming destruction. Jonah boldly preached to them in regard to their wickedness and the need to REPENT! Well, they finally repented! The people of Nineveh were spared.

 

However, once again years later, Nineveh again returned to their sins and wickedness. ( Learn more about him in the Book of Jonah)

 

 

You do not have to seek the approval of others when you have the approval of GOD!

 

So yes, we at times must let some people go. Not to simply abandon them but give them to the Lord. God can do so much more with them than we can. But know experience is not always the best teacher. You can learn what not to do by simply observing others. Some things can be avoided… Yes, there are always consequences for our choices. So choose wisely as you become wiser. Not everyone wants help or godly counsel. They often want you to serve them and their purpose.

 

 

However, we must continue on doing what the LORD “CALLS” us to do. Knowing when you truly LOVE GOD that in His time “He works all things together for our good.” Therefore always look to GOD first and not man/ woman. DAILY “Seek ye first HIS Kingdom and HIS Righteousness…”

 

GOD ALWAYS TAKES CARE OF HIS OWN!

 

The Prophet Nahum spoke doom again upon Nineveh

We know very little about “Nahum the Elkoshite.” But, we do know that he obeyed God and once again spoke judgment upon Nineveh. They had returned to doing what they had done before. They had resumed their normal sinful ways. And this time they did not repent. The great city of Nineveh was eventually destroyed.”...Behold, I am against thee, saith the Lord of hosts, and I will burn her chariots in the smoke, and the sword shall devour thy young lions: and I will cut off thy prey from the earth, and the voice of thy messengers I will hear no more.” Nahum 2

 

Be led by the Spirit of God

It is important to make sure that you are not just going along with the masses. You want to make sure that you are being led by the SPIRIT of GOD and staying on the ” Narrow Path! ” Take time to ” BE STILL & KNOW. “

” GOD is jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth and is furious; the LORD will take vengeance on His adversaries, and He reserveth wrath for His enemies.

The LORD is slow to anger and great in power, and will not acquit the wicked; the LORD hath HIS way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of HIS feet…” Nahum 1 ( Learn more about him in the Book of Nahum)

Be careful and mindul that you are not being molded into the present system of thinking and values of this world. Something to think about? Are you looking for approval? Are you standing up for the Word of God? Not in an argumentative way. Because the Word has its own built in defense. Do you really live thinking that Christ Jesus is going to return today?

 

Being a Christian is not a popularity contest. You will be overlooked, rejected, slandered, mistreated and misunderstood. Just like Jesus. However you will also be faithfully LOVED BY GOD and some others as well…

 

Are you really being led by the SPIRIT of GOD or by the masses? Well then, if GOD IS leading you, carry on because it is GOD who you are accountable to…

” And BE NOT conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and PERFECT WILL of GOD.” Romans 12

 

The Prophet Jeremiah

Jeremiah is known as one of the Lord’s greatest prophets.  His father Hilkiah was a priest. He was called by God even before the Lord formed him within his mother’s womb. The Lord had him to boldly speak to the people.   Jeremiah fluently and voraciously spoke to the kings as well as the people of God. His inexhaustible messages were about the Messiah to come and the covenant with God and His people. Jeremiah spoke to the pastors and told them of their responsibility to feed God’s sheep His Word. He also spoke to the false prophets about their false dreams and wickedness.

 

Jeremiah experienced much anxiety and turmoil during the (40) forty years he prophesied about God’s judgment to Israel and the world.  Jeremiah was well known as the Prophet of Doom. He also preached consolation, repentance and the hope of a better life in the Lord. The Lord also told Judah and Israel to REPENT! But they did not. He candidly spoke to them. “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding…” Jeremiah 3 Well this never happened.

“My Tabernacle is spoiled, and all my cords are broken; my children are gone forth of me, and they are not; there is none to stretch forth my tent anymore, and to set up my curtains.

For the pastors are become bruthish, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered… Jeremiah 10

Well, they did not repent. Jeremiah continuously prophesied to them. The Shepherds caused the people to go astray and the people became lost to the ways of God. The land was filled with sin against God. Yet, God did not forsake them. But there were consequences. Israel was eventually taken into Babylonian captivity. King Nebuchadnezzar burned down the House of the Lord as well as the King’s palace down. (Learn more about him in the Book of Jeremiah.)

 

The people often resented Jeremiah for speaking forth TRUTH. The truth was not readily welcomed then nor is it readily welcomed now in this 21^st century. This is why so many calamaties are now happening all over the world.

 

JEREMIAH’S CALL & COMMISSION

Jeremiah was sent to root out, to pull down, to destroy, build and to plant.  This is why he was known as; ” The Prophet of Doom! “

” …SEE, I HAVE THIS DAY SET THEE OVER THE NATIONS AND OVER THE KINGDOMS TO ROOT OUT, AND TO PULL DOWN, AND TO DESTROY, AND TO THROW DOWN AND TO BUILD AND TO PLANT…” JEREMIAH 1

 

GOD is always speaking we must get better at listening. There is a reason for this Coronavirus pandemic & pestilence it has impacted the entire world in a multiplicity of ways… In Jerusalem for the very first time since it was built they closed the synagogue for worship due to the Coronavirus… It is important to PRAY and spend time daily with the Lord in His Word. Seek His Will & Way above all others. For in the LORD there is always HOPE! Yes indeed; GOD is speaking in these ” PERILOUS DAYS ” by HIS SON!

 

CHRIST JESUS APPEARS TO HIS DISCIPLES

Then opened HE their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures.

And said unto them, “Thus it is written, and thus it behooved CHRIST to suffer, and to rise from the dead on the third day: AND THAT THE REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS SHOULD BE PREACHED IN HIS NAME AMONG ALL NATIONS, BEGINNING AT JERUSALEM.“

AND YE ARE WITNESSES OF THESE THINGS. ” Luke 24

REPENT!

Please during these “Perilous Days” learn: “TO BE STILL & KNOW!”

 

Did You Grow Up in the Church? Part 2

We are living in some serious times. There is much spiritual warfare about us. The world is not going to get better. But there is a better way to live daily. Jesus lived an exemplary life. He was and is the epitome of what life is all about. It is because of Jesus we have a direct way back to the Father. When He died the veil of the temple was torn in two. The purpose of the veil was to separate the section of the Temple where only the priest were allowed. We can thank Jesus because; we now can go directly to God. His Word can cleanse you from all unrighteousness. Did you know that Jesus was God’s Word wrapped in flesh? Jesus came as a living testimonial to the world and the family of God; which is His Church.

Did you know that the Church is actually Christ’s Bride? Do you know how important faithfulness is to a bride? Think about that; that is really heavy! God not only wants us to be faithful to our spouses but to Him. Jesus came to let us know that the principles in God’s Word are true. Did you know that God wants what is best for us? Did you know that God even disciplines us because He loves us so much? He even allows persecution so we can move on to further allow His will to be done in our life. Did you grow up in the Church but the Church did not grow up in you?

God does not have a list of rules and regulations. Yet, you are considered to be “in the know, if you acknowledge everyone in a hierarchal manner before you speak. You are even commended for knowing protocol. If you don’t walk while someone’s talking you are respectful. But these are not really rules are they? Think about it? If you are walking you really must need to go somewhere? Are not the doors of God’s Church always open? These are just a few things to think about. Oh! These again are not rules; it just shows you know how to do what? “Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is Liberty”. But God tells us not to use that as a cloak for maliciousness.

Did you know that God intended for His Church to be a “Lighthouse.” A place where we can worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. A place where darkness should not prevail. God is also a God of order. Yes, we should be respectful of our place of worship. But some things are just not necessary. If you were raised in Church, but the Church is not in you the truth really does not matter. It is easier to just do whatever is expected. This assures you that you can participate in any way. You can even opt to fill any position you desire. Nowadays some of everything goes on during worship. Many dance, sing and lay on hands to the glory of man. They often seek a momentary emotional experience. Week after week they come to the altar but go home to confusion. This is okay because your heart is considered okay, you have passed inspection. All you have to do is put in your request. After all you are related to or in the inner circle. You have a blanket excuse for any and every past or present behavior because you obey without question. You are unconditionally loved? Or are you really? You also give God honor, praise and thank him for giving you the opportunity to stand before all. Yet they can already see you are standing up. But do you really have inner Peace?

If you really want to stand for something; stand up for what is right.” In actuality protocol to you really means you know who to call in order of importance? Now who is the respecter of persons? What’s really important is that we call on Jesus and create and environment where His presence is truly welcomed. Yes, I am being a little sarcastic. But not to be facetious. What is your point? I merely want all of us to think about why we do or do not do some of the things we do. Many of the ways of world has nested themselves into many worship services. No disrespect intended a lot of things just are not necessary.

For example who thought of the five minute fellowship? Think? Where did this originate? Who gives a person the authority to tell you what to do and when. Especially if the only time they speak to you is within those five minutes? Go figure! We have the freedom to not conform to every trend or doctrine. I have seen many trends come and go. OH! “But we are doing a new thing?” “NOTHING IS NEW UNDER THE SUN”

God has said that He would write His law in our hearts. As you diligently study God’s Word He will really deliver you! He will free you from a lot of stuff that just does not make sense. God has so many wonderful things in store for us. He also gives us the freedom to choose. Have you ever seen the movie “Groundhog Day?” It is a humorous little movie where this guy wakes up at the same time everyday and the same thing happens over and over. He knew how each person would respond. He knew each day exactly what to expect. After a while he realizes that some things really need to change. Did you know that God really can change you? Did you know He really does have a better way for you to live? Ask yourself honestly have you grown up in the Church but the Church did not grow up in you? God really and truly can deliver you!

There really is a difference between being in the Church and the Church being in you? When the Church is in you the Holy Spirit becomes the governor of your soul. You live in the world, you are to be law abiding citizen but you realize it is in GOD you LIVE and MOVE and have your being. You are convicted when wrong. You do not desire to be right just for the sake of being right. This is not some unrealistic, legalistic, rigid, mythical, unattainable, cultist way of being. (You are often encouraged to go along when there is a cultist mentality for the sake of being accepted by the group or groups.) Remember; “Jim Jones?” You realize how vitally important it is to live your life before the Lord. You know without a doubt that God is your Heavenly Father.

The devil his imps and no one or nobody can do anything to pluck you out God’s hands, once you truly believe that you truly belong to God and Jesus is your Lord and Savior! You have been adopted into His family and you know that you know that you know without doubting you are His child! You know what His Word says about being double minded? Wait I must caution you! You must be aware that you will be thought of as negative, strange and or self righteous by those who really do not know or understand you. They will even put you through their heart test. But, those who really know you know that you have been raised in the Church and the Church is in you. Go pluck some spiritual fruit and “pig out” in a good way on the WORD of GOD. Especially try some of His good ole patience. Don’t go there; this not some egotistical, arrogant or prideful statement.

Allow the Holy Spirit to lead You. Pray and Meditate on GOD’S WORD before you enter into worship. Sincerely ask Him to open your spiritual eyes. Take time to observe what is happening around you. What happens before, during and after worship. “PRAY WITHOUT CEASING” during and after worship. Make sure regardless of what everyone else is doing that you take some time throughout worship & “BE STILL & KNOW!” KEEP YOUR FOCUS ON CHRIST JESUS!

See Part 3

How Important Is Discipline In Your Daily Life

How Important Is Discipline In Your Daily Life

Webster defines discipline as a training that corrects, molds or perfects the mental faculties or moral character. A control gained by enforcing obedience or order. Orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior. To discipline means to train or develop by instruction and exercise; especially in the area of self control.The development of discipline is essential to our overall personal growth and spiritual maturity.

 

One of the fruits of the spirit is self control. Due to Adam’s sin mankind has inherited a sin-based nature. The appetite to fulfill the desires of the eyes and the lusts of the flesh is quite often first and foremost. The appetite of each individual varies. Your desire could be overeating or under-eating, alcohol, drugs, immoral sexual behavior, lying, envy, idolatry, covetousness, etc. In order to overcome this proclivity towards sin one must continually learn to surrender their yearnings toward self-gratification. How can we accomplish this? To the believer deliverance from an undisciplined lifestyle is quite attainable. Paul tells us: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:19. The key factor in that verse is the strength has to come from the LORD.

 

 

God is quite aware of our shortcomings. Our shortcomings are what alerts us to the fact we need something other than ourselves to overcome our human frailties. God has created us for the purpose of fellowship. We must continuously develop a life in accordance with the instructions He has left in His WORD. The first step to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way the truth and the life: NO man cometh unto the FATHER but by me.” John 14:6. There is no other way to GOD.

 

 

Our perspective on life greatly affects how we deal with certain situations. Envision with me if you please a house. Everyday you would pass by this house. After a while you become very familiar with it’s exterior. You then begin to even make assumptions about the house. You eventually come to admire it for it’s surface beauty, but only from an exterior point of view. You’ve seen the front door day after day but you have never stopped and taken the time to knock at the door. You are aware of where the house is; you even think you have a general idea of what it’s like inside. But do you really?

Quite often we develop the same type of relationship with God. We know where His instructions for daily life are found. We have access to the Bible. But how often do we really devote time to actually seek His spiritual direction for our day to day living? We must go beyond the exterior and delve into the WORD and embrace His principles and apply them to our lives consistently. When we embrace His principles we embark upon a life of freedom. This freedom will free you from the appetites of the flesh and the clutches of the world.

When you develop an intimate relationship with Him He begins to fill that deep endless void THAT ONLY HE CAN FILL.The Christian life is not an unattainable idealistic lifestyle. When we begin to walk in the Spirit we can overcome the weaknesses of the flesh. Christians are to live lives that are dependent upon God. It is through this spiritual dependency the strongholds that satan has on your life will begin to dissipate. This spiritual walk includes a life of discipline. Remember it is through discipline we are able to harness and control the lusts of the flesh I mentioned earlier.

 

Christ lived, suffered, died and arose from the dead for a reason. He sacrificed His life to redeem us from the curse and endowment of Adam’s sin. It is by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives we can overcome and partake in the victorious life he has prepared for those that truly love Him. “Greater is He that is in you then he that is in the world.” The scripture is not just for memorization to impress others. It is an edible delicacy that will nourish your spirituality and quench your unquenchable thirst as you truly embrace and live out it’s intended principles.

 

We must seek and learn to discipline our life to His standards. We must begin to relinquish the desire for man’s approval and conditional acceptance. We can never please man. I must warn you! The closer you draw to GOD the less man will understand you. You will be persecuted and greatly misunderstood. Guess what? So was Jesus! He was maligned and accused of many things by those who should have known better. It was those who were thought to be spiritual that treated Him exceedingly wrong.

 

Man looks from the outside in; this is the opposite of God’s perspective. He looks from the inside out. He knows all about you and I.  Our innermost thoughts and desires are fully known by Him. The key to a peaceful and contented life filled with true JOY is available. “GOD is LIGHT, and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness (appetites of the flesh) we lie, and do not tell the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is Light, we have fellowship one with another, and the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST HIS SON CLEANSETH US FROM ALL SIN.” How important is discipline?

 

It is very important!