Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | February 9, 2014

GRACE AND DISCIPLESHIP


“As He passed by, He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, ‘Follow Me.’ So he arose and followed Him” (Mark 2:14). Please go to Luke 9: 57-62 and read it as well.

So, what does it mean to follow Jesus? First, I want to state that I believe Christianity without the living Christ as Lord of your life is inevitably Christianity without discipleship, and Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Jesus Christ. Further to this, I believe that there are NO ‘half-way’ places in following Jesus; either you CHOOSE to follow, or you don’t.

In day to day natural life our ambitions are our own, but in the Christian life we can have no goals of our own. We often talk about our decisions for Christ, our determination to be good Christians, and our decisions for this and that, but in the New Testament the only aspect that is brought out is the compelling PURPOSE of GOD. “You did not choose Me, but I chose you…” (John 15:16). We are not taken into conscious agreement with God’s purpose; we are taken into God’s purpose with no awareness of it at all (Ephesians 2:8-10). The call of God can never be understood absolutely or explained externally, it is a call that is only perceived and understood in our spirit (John 16:12-15).

In Luke 9:57-62 Jesus says to those who have been called, “… No man, having put his hand unto the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Within these verses we see three examples of potential disciples that many of us were once like, or perhaps are one of them today.

The first disciple followed Jesus without waiting to be called (Hebrews 4:4-14). Jesus warned the disciple of the costs and with His warning revealed that no man CHOOSES such a life for himself. A man cannot call himself. There is a big gulf between a voluntary offer to follow and genuine discipleship. I frequently see this when counseling people in bondage to addictions. They ‘get clean’ and are on a high because they are going to ‘change their life’. They eagerly seek Jesus without first counting the cost. Soon, old friends check in and before you know it they are looking back into their ‘old lifestyle’ and many times end up back in it.

The second disciple wanted to bury his father first. He had become bound by the deception of the law (tradition, religion) and the law itself placed a barricade between Jesus and the man He called (Matthew 15:1-20). NOTHING, however sacred, can be permitted to come between Jesus and you. I believe I see this in many churches today. We have man’s rules (self-made doctrine) about when, why, how we must PRACTICE worshipping our Lord. Soon, we look around and if another church is doing it ‘differently;’ we judge and say they are wrong. Does this not remind you of the Pharisees in Jesus day? I call it religious pride, or the ‘religious spirit’.

Finally, the third disciple thought that following Jesus meant he must make an offer; like he did when planning his career. He wants to follow, but feels he must insist on his own terms; certain conditions must be fulfilled first (Luke 18:18-23). The “do this and then I’ll do that” mentality actually reduces discipleship to the level of a self-planned program we arrange to suit ourselves. WE WANT OUR OWN WAY. It’s the part of us that has not SUBMITTED to the reign of Jesus. It’s the part of us that remains in spiritual darkness and the degree we are in darkness means we experience that much less of Holy Spirit’s presence.

In reality, true discipleship can tolerate nothing that may come between Jesus and a follower’s OBEDIENCE (Matthew 10: 34-42; Luke 9:62).

Have you given Jesus Christ FIRST place in ALL areas of your life? (John 12:23-26).

“I am the Lord your God, A jealous God… “(Exodus 20: 1-6).

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | February 6, 2014

GRACE COSTS


“Now great multitudes went with Him, and He turned and said to them, “ If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. For which of you intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it –lest after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish…So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14: 25-33)

Cheap grace is a grace without price, a grace without cost. The very essence of grace is that the account has been paid in advance and because it has been paid, everything can be had for nothing. Forgiveness of sins is proclaimed as an intellectual truth. The ‘love of God’ is seen as sufficient to secure remission of sins. No ‘true, godly repentance’ (2Corinthians 7: 9, 10) is required, nor a real desire to be delivered from sin. Cheap grace is the idea that grace did it all for me so I do not need to change my lifestyle; I can live like the rest of the world. Cheap grace is preaching forgiveness without requiring repentance (no expectation of turning away from past sin in your life, no accountability); it is a grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, and grace without Jesus. ‘Cheap grace,’ rather than having been given by God, is the grace we have given to ourselves.

When we give the ‘flu vaccine’ it has a very small amount of the actual virus as part of the serum. Once you receive it through injection, your own immune system builds up antibodies to fight against the ‘flu’ if you come in contact with it. Cheap grace is like a vaccination; we have gotten just enough of Jesus to prevent us from acquiring the ‘real thing’. As a result, we begin to feel secure even in the midst of godless living and moral decay. We become unaware of our disobedience and this cheap grace gives us a sense of ‘strength’ (really pride); for after all, we are told that our salvation has already been accomplished by the grace of God.

Costly grace is the grace of Christian discipleship. It is costly because it calls us to follow Jesus and it costs our very lives. Some of the costs of following Jesus are in SERVICE (Luke 14:26), serving Him before any others; SACRIFICE (Luke 14:27) through putting the interests of Christ before our own; SELF-ASSESSMENT (Luke 14: 28-30) in knowing who we are and how Christ has equipped and empowered us to do what He asks. Costly grace condemns sin but justifies the sinner. It is the ‘sanctuary of God’ and it has to be protected from the world; not thrown to the dogs (Matthew 15:26). Above all it is GRACE because it COST God the life of His Son: ‘you were bought at a price’ (1Corinthians 7:22, 23).

When we are called to follow Christ, we are summoned to an attachment to His person. Discipleship without Jesus Christ is a way of our OWN CHOOSING, but is devoid of all promise. Happy are they who know that discipleship simply means a life which springs forth from grace, and that grace simply means discipleship.

“… Follow Me …” (Mark 2: 14).

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | February 1, 2014

LOOK TO JESUS


LOOK TO JESUS

“And then at last, the sign of the coming of the Son of Man will appear in the heavens, and there will be a deep mourning among ALL the nations of the earth.” Matthew 24: 30

God has been speaking to me this week about the return of Jesus. I felt impressed to share this word with you NOW, instead of waiting. The words to a song keep coming into my mind, “Look up, your redemption draweth nigh” (Jesus IS coming). In Matthew 24: 1-12, 37 the Lord says that the things going on in society prior to His return will be much like they were in the days of Noah. When you read these verses you will find that the world today is the same or worse. Because of the people’s sin and rebellion, God destroyed all but eight people on the earth with a flood. As I read through the Bible, I cover over 2000 years of history and in all that time I see no changes in the behavior and attitudes of the majority of people. Solomon, who was considered the wisest man said, “…there is no new thing under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9,10). This has proven to be correct when you look at ‘people; the righteous & unrighteous, both then and now.

In the days of Moses there was much complaining, scoffing, and open rebellion against God’s commandments (called ‘SIN’) and God disciplined His children. He sent fiery serpents into the Israelite camp and many died after being bitten (Numbers 21: 5-9). He told Moses to make a serpent and put it on a pole. When the pole was held up, any who looked at it would be healed. Scripture says that MANY DIED. Why? They just did not believe, or they chose not to look. Much later, Jesus spoke of this time when He was describing His death and ascension into heaven (John 3: 14, 15). Some will look to Jesus for eternal life; many won’t.

God loves us and He sent His only Son, Jesus, to save us (Matthew 18: 11, 14; John 3: 16, 17). It is NOT His will that even one of us be lost. There was a time prior to His crucifixion when God the Father spoke audibly to Jesus and Jesus responded with these words, “This voice came not because of Me, but for your sakes. Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me” (Matthew 12: 28-32). As when Moses held up the serpent on the pole; so Jesus hung on the cross; but Jesus was raised from the dead and He is lifted up ALIVE and will one day return for those who choose to believe the reality of His life!

The word that God is speaking to us TODAY is that any who CHOOSE to accept Jesus as Lord of their lives will be saved and have eternal life. I believe He is also speaking to any who have received Jesus into their life and He is asking you, “Am I being lifted up in your life; are people drawn to you because they are looking at Me LIVING through you?”

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | January 30, 2014

SAVING FAITH


“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation—IF you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.” Colossians 1: 21-23

Faith means totally believing and trusting in Jesus Christ as your personal Lord. It means believing with all of your heart (spirit) (Romans 6:17), giving up your will, and committing your TOTAL SELF to Jesus Christ. There is an ‘intellectual’ (mind) belief that is spoken of in James 2:19, where even demons are said to believe that there is ONE God. Obviously, they are NOT SAVED by this type of belief.

So what kind of faith saves you and assures you of eternal life?

It is heartfelt personal devotion and attachment to Jesus that is expressed through your love, loyalty and gratitude towards Him. In fact, it is often hard to distinguish faith from love. It is an ONGOING activity of sacrifice and self-giving to Jesus Christ (John 21: 15-17). Because you love Him, you desire to obey His commands as written in the Bible (His directions). You KNOW He has the answer to every problem that comes up in your life and you DO what He says (Romans 1: 1-6).

You believe that Jesus took the punishment (death on the cross…Romans 6: 23) for ALL your past sin, your sin of today, and your sin of the future. Once you have truly repented, His Word gives you the ASSURANCE that God has at that moment forgotten your sins forever!

“He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear (reverence) Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalms 103: 10-12).

When you have accepted Jesus into your heart, you not only know He died for you, but you KNOW He (Holy Spirit) LIVES within you (Galatians 4: 4-7) and He IS changing you moment to moment to become JUST LIKE JESUS (2Corinthians 3:18). He begins on the INSIDE (your heart) (Ephesians 4: 20-24) and He slowly works His way into all areas of your life!

If you have genuine faith in Jesus Christ and you allow His dominion in your life, you can then say with great joy:

“I KNOW Whom I have believed in and am PERSUADED that HE IS ABLE to keep all that I have committed to Him until that Day” (2 Timothy 1: 12).

He IS returning soon! Blessed be the Lord!

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | January 28, 2014

LOVE


“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1 John 4: 7,8)

‘Love’ is a very confusing concept these days. People use the word ‘love’ to describe very different things: people ‘love’ their dog, ‘love’ their car, a dress, a boiled egg, a sexually intimate partner, a song, a book, a movie, a country, and the list goes on.

What can ‘love’ possibly mean if it applies equally well to a person, food, pet, thing, etc.?

Everyone believes that love is important, but love is usually thought of as a feeling and feelings can and do change according to external/internal conditions in and around a person’s life. In reality, ‘love’ always involves CHOICE and an ACTION. You will display your love or lack of love in the CHOICES you make and in the ACTIONS you take in any given relationship.

There are two Greek meanings for love: ‘phileo’ and ‘agapao’. At times ‘love’ is practiced within the scope of each meaning; at other times the meanings get mixed together (like the scrambled egg). Jesus addressed this very issue with Peter in John 21: 15-19.

Phileo means to have ‘tender affection and feeling’ for something or someone and it is often more ‘impulsive’. This is the love a man may have for a son or daughter, a wife, a mother. The meaning of this ‘love type’ conveys the thought of cherishing the ‘object’ above all else.

In today’s world system we frequently see a negative ‘twist’ stirred into choices made and actions taken in the ‘name of love’. I have frequently heard it said, “It just happened; I just knew she/he was the one”. I have also noted that there appears to be no attached consequences, no responsibility, no lasting quality, and that it can change as quickly as the weather. I see this as the kind of love that makes a person ‘feel good’ and it is all right to sacrifice your moral principles and the other’s rights in order to obtain such a love.

The other word, agapao (agape) means ‘to have esteem or high regard for’ and it is used in several different ways in the Bible. It is love that is born out of respect and the feelings that develop in this relationship occur over time. There is genuine ‘caring for’ the other person; placing their comfort above your own.

Agape love is seen in God’s love toward His Son (John 17: 26) and toward the human race (Romans 5: 8). It is the love that God desires His children to have for each other (John 13: 34, 35) and it expresses the very ‘nature’ of God (1John 4: 7, 8). This kind of love can be known only from the positive actions it prompts, as seen in God’s gift of His Son (1 John 4: 9, 10).

Agape love is like ‘oil’ to the wheels of obedience. I am not forced to love my brother or sister; I do it because of my love for Jesus. I make a CHOICE to love others (friend, foe, brother, sister, black, white, rich, poor) and this ‘Spirit-inspired’ love never fails (1Corinthians 13: 3) and it always grows.

God’s love is the SOURCE of all human love and it spreads like fire. In loving His children, God kindles a flame in their hearts. In turn, they love others, who are warmed by God’s love through them. GOD IS LOVE. His love surpasses our powers of understanding; it is everlasting, it is free, it is sacrificial and it endures to the end.

RECEIVE HIS GIFT OF LOVE TODAY!

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” (John 3: 16, 17)

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | December 22, 2013

LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM


Merry Christmas to one and all!
It is my heart to believe with you, for a “RE-NEWED” birth of Christ in each of your lives this Christmas Season and for all the days throughout this coming year of many changes. May His holy GLORY shine on all you do as each of you step into your calling to advance His Kingdom here on earth. I join with you in PRAISE to the King of kings; “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth, peace, goodwill toward men!”

“But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS (YESHUA, translated “HE SHALL SAVE”), for He will save His people from their sins.’ So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the LORD through the prophet, saying; ‘Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name IMMANUEL (which is translated, ‘GOD WITH US’) (Matthew 1: 20-23).”

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder, and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts WILL perform this (Isaiah 9: 6, 7).”

“So Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace to you! AS THE FATHER HAS SENT ME, I also send you.’ And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit…’ (John 20: 19- 23).”

“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called BETHLEHEM, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, BECAUSE THERE WAS NO ROOM FOR THEM IN THE INN. Now there were in the same country SHEPHERDS living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the LORD stood before them, and the glory of the LORD shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, ‘DO NOT BE AFRAID, for behold, I bring to you tidings of great joy which WILL BE TO ALL PEOPLE. For there is BORN TO YOU THIS DAY in the city of David a SAVIOR, who is CHRIST the LORD’ (Luke 2: 1-20).”

“Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a NEW song, saying: ‘You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have REDEEMED US TO GOD by Your BLOOD…’ (Revelation 5: 8-14).”

“JOY to the world, the LORD IS come. Let EARTH RECEIVE her King. Let EVERY HEART PREPARE him room and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing.” (Isaac Watts: Psalm 98).

Christmas: I love this time of year for so many reasons. I like the lights and the trees, the cool and crisp air, the snow, toboggan rides down hills of snow, ice skating and frozen toes, the hustle and bustle, Christmas music, the smell of baking, fellowship with family and friends, church bells ringing, candles flickering, smiling faces, and laughter. I especially like Christmas concerts; the “old-fashioned” kind. Do you remember memorizing lines for your part in the Christmas play, the rehearsals, trying on costumes, and the excitement of the actual night? Remember when you walked into the church and you could smell the fragrance of the newly purchased HUGE Christmas tree, the beauty of the lights on it and especially, the little brown bags of Christmas treats under the tree for each child and all the guests? I remember the JOY and EXCITEMENT I felt in my heart as we would stand and sing all the old and favorite carols.

One of the readers (Bill A.) sent me a letter last week and it is here I’d like to share it. I pray you will be as blessed as I was by the way Holy Spirit blessed him with a “personal” Christmas gift. God desires each of us to experience HIS PRESENCE in a new and deeper way these next weeks and months. I thank Him for this blessing.

As written by Bill:
“Here lately for me He has been revealing Himself more and more. The more I empty Bill of himself the more room there is for Him to take up residence, live in and through me. How beautiful. Recently the Lord, through a lady friend chose and blessed me to be a part of a dance group! I don’t dance! Perhaps I should rephrase. I used to not dance. The LORD had other plans. The group is composed of 25 women and two men that truly love the LORD. We are joined together as one body from assorted churches. The dance is a celebration where the LORD receives His bride and dances with her. Don’t laugh too loud when I share this, but the LORD truly has a sense of humor. At the young age of 62 yrs being married, father of 3 children and 6 grandchildren, never having acted, or danced; I have performed twice (2 different locations) with these ladies. I portray Jesus. Yes, I know Jesus was 33 and I believe with lots of hair. Oh well like I said He truly has a sense of humor. When I was asked to help it was ok until my friend said that they needed a person to portray Jesus!!!! Their Jesus (one they had) had to leave the group. I was speechless. I kept saying, “But you want me to portray Jesus!!!! Not Peter or Moses. I did accept with some slight prodding from my wife.

There are no words to convey what I have experienced! My life will never again be the same. I now have new perspectives the like of which I have never known. It has been the most wonderful AWE inspiring with joy unspeakable and full of glory experience of my life, which is getting shorter. I have now portrayed the King of kings and LORD of lords, Christ Jesus. I pray that when persons look at me they don’t see Bill, but only the LOVE of the Father through His Son, Jesus. The past several months the LORD has been weaving a most beautiful and wonderful golden web of His glory through my life experiences in this earthly realm. He has been reaching from His heavenly realm into my inner most being. Heaven on earth. What an honor to have been chosen by Him and to serve Him. Forgive me, I talk too much.

PS. Please pray for our group this Sunday. We have been asked by another church to portray the dance. May the audience see none of us, only His heavenly hosts. May lives be cleansed and healed by Him through our clay vessels.

Blessings…Bill A.”

Bethlehem: In Hebrew means “house of bread, family house, food for man or beast (bread, or grain to make the bread).” In Greek it means “begin to sink, drown; depth (sea)/deep; profundity, mystery; to walk, a pace (base) (by impl. the foot).”

I see each of us as a “type” of Bethlehem; a “house” (temple, 1 Corinthians 3: 16) in which we decide if there is room for Christ. Have you made room for Him and is He your daily bread? JESUS said, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world” (John 6: 51). I believe He is calling each of us into a far deeper, personal relationship with Him. A relationship that will require death of any “self” that is remaining within our lives. He is calling us once again to the foundation of our spiritual lives; to the foot of the cross for a NEW and FRESH infilling of His very life. Do you have room in your inn? Jesus made a way for you at the cross and He has prepared a place for you to live with Him eternally. “He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in Him” (John 6: 56).

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | December 18, 2013

GOD IS!


God controls all history and He revealed Jesus’ birth to shepherds in the field. The angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord… Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests” (Luke 2: 8-14). Christ Jesus, Emmanuel (God with us); God’s mystery, hidden for ages and generations, was disclosed to the shepherds and is still being revealed to the world today; it is the same message! God chose the shepherds, you, and me to make known among the Gentiles, the glorious riches of the mystery, which is Christ in us the hope of glory (Colossians 1: 26, 27; see also Acts 10: 34- 43). Hallelujah!

One of the ways we are identified as a disciple of Christ is by the evidence of fruit in our daily lives (Genesis 1: 12; Matthew 7: 15-20; Matthew 12: 33; John 15: 1-17). The nine forms of spiritual fruit are listed in Galatians 5: 22, 23: love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. The fruit seen in our lives is the character of Christ manifesting through those whom He indwells. When all the forms of the fruit are fully developed, it is as if Jesus by the Holy Spirit is incarnated in us. LOVE—the primary form of fruit—is listed first. The others that follow may be understood as different ways in which the fruit of love manifests itself. Joy is love rejoicing, peace is love resting, patience is love forebearing, kindness is love serving others, goodness is love seeking the best for others, faithfulness is love keeping its promises, gentleness is love ministering to the hurts of others, and self-control is love in control.

There is no real success in the development of Christian character without hard work (diligence) on our part (2 Timothy 2: 6). After the seed of God’s Word is implanted in our heart, faith begins to grow (Hebrews 11: 1-3) and it is in faith that the development of character is fully formed. Peter outlines the process in 2 Peter 1: 5-7 and you can see seven stages of development built upon each other within that verse (add to your faith virtue, then add on knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and then love).

The last three stages of Christian character are worth looking at a bit more closely:

Godliness is the mark of a person whose life is centered in God. The person has become a vessel of the presence of God (2 Corinthians 4: 7; 2 Timothy 2: 20, 21). Wherever such a person goes, the atmosphere will be filled with the fragrance of Christ and those about the person will be aware of it within themselves (foul language stops, girls wriggle in discomfort as they tug their tops up a bit higher, etc.). It has nothing to do with us; the presence of God’s Spirit within us brings conviction of sin (John 16: 8-11).

Brotherly kindness is second to last in our development and do you know why? It is the kind of love that Christians should have for one another, but quite frankly, it is often not easy to love one another! This is confirmed throughout the two thousand year Church history; one that has been riddled with strife, contention, and even open hatred between “rival groups of Christians”; all claiming to be the “real deal”, the “true Church.” When we accept Christ as our Savior, there is not an instant transformation in our character; it can take years to develop! smile There will need to be continual washing with God’s Word (Ephesians 5: 26) and as we bump up against each other in our personal relationships, rough edges are worn down and become smooth. It is in spiritual maturity that we come to love our fellow Christians, not for who they are in themselves, but for what they mean to Jesus, who shed His life-blood for each of them! Hallelujah!

Agape love is the final stage of development and it represents the full, ripe fruit of Christian character. It is the manifest love of God’s own love for the unthankful and the unholy. It is the kind of love that allows me to “bless those who curse me, do good to those who hate me, and to pray for those who spitefully use me and persecute me” (Matthew 5: 44). Christ demonstrated this love on the cross as He prayed for those who crucified Him (Luke 23: 34). It is the love that allowed Stephen to pray for those who were stoning him (Acts 7: 60). I am reminded of the words in 1 Corinthians 13: 12, 13, “Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror, then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love: But the greatest of these is love.”

Once again we will hear a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns! Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice He judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on His head are many crowns. He has a mane written on Him that no one knows but Himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following Him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of His mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations” (Revelation 19: 6-16; 22:12, 13).

“He will rule them with an iron scepter.”
He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.
On His robe and on His thigh He has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS!

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | December 12, 2013

GLORY & PEACE IN HIS PRESENCE


And God said (to Noah and his sons), “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come; I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. …Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.” …

When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, …But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. … And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people. …Moses said to the Lord, “See, You say to me, ‘Bring up this people,’ but You have not let me know whom You will send with me. Yet You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have also found favor in My sight.’ Now therefore, if I have found favor in Your sight, please show me now Your ways, that I may know You in order to find favor in Your sight. Consider too that this nation is Your people.” And He said, “My presence will go with you and I will give you rest.” And he said to Him, “If Your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here. For how shall it be known that I have found favor in Your sight, I and Your people? Is it not Your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and Your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?” And the Lord said to Moses, “This very thing that you have spoken I will do, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.” Moses said, ‘Please show me Your glory. …'”

Over the heads of the living creatures there was the likeness of an expanse, shining like awe-inspiring crystal, spread out above their heads. … And above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire, and seated above the likeness of the throne was the likeness with a human appearance. And upward from what had the appearance of his waist I saw as it were gleaming metal, like the appearance of fire enclosed all around. And downward from what had the appearance of his waist I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and there was brightness around him. Like the appearance of the rainbow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of God. …

After six days Jesus took with Him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. … While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!” …

Then came one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues and spoke to me, saying, “Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. … And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it …

(Genesis 9: 12-16; Exodus 13: 17-22; 33: 12-19; Ezekiel 1: 22-28; Matthew 17: 1-8; Revelation 21: 9-11, 23-27)

Last week three specific things happened in my life: the first was a “prophetic word” sent to me by a missionary in South Africa, the second was a note from a pastor/leader with a “directional word” for me from God, and the third was during a visit with a dear friend who has been told that no more can be done for her regarding the cancer that is destroying her right lung. Within each, the glory and peace of God’s presence was highlighted for me. I was reading my Bible (Ezekiel 1) one morning this week and in verses 26-28 and the words, rainbow, glory, and fire stood out to me.

According to Nelson’s Bible Dictionary, the rainbow is a sign of the glorious presence of God. It is the continual reminder of God’s faithfulness and that His mercy and grace will finally triumph. I have always enjoyed seeing a rainbow in the sky; the sight fills me with wonder, thankfulness, and a great sense of peace.

Rainbow
Rainbow: Gk. epo (2036) means to speak or say (by word or writing)–answer, bid, bring word, say (on), speak, tell. The primary verb (3006) lego: to “lay” forth, (fig.) relate (in words, usually of systemic or set discourse) etc.

I had been writing this webpage for almost five years and I know that the Spirit of the LIVING GOD has directed me in all that I have written, with today being no exception. So, consider the possibility that God is using me (as like a rainbow) this very moment to reveal His presence in your life! smile Certainly, God manifested His glory to Noah (rainbow), Moses (I believe in the pillar of cloud and fire), Ezekiel (fire, rainbow), disciples (white light), and John (New Jerusalem).

My friend (Judy) has always had so much joy and she does not hesitate in finding out how your personal relationship with God is going. She has “extreme faith” and sees this illness as a way for her to draw even closer to God and the one thing she desires most of all is to see and touch His glory. When I was with her and two other women a couple weeks ago, God manifested His presence in a “tangible” way and it was a different experience for each woman there. Judy felt the heat of His “fire” and cried out for even greater purification and revelation of His glory. Jeanie praised God for the angels He had sent to us as she felt her hair being touched along with a deep sense of peace. Pearlie was reassured of His love for her as the others prayed into her ministry and she rejoiced as she felt pain leaving her joints and new strength filling her. I just could not stop the tears as I felt so much love for my sisters and I felt Holy Spirit pour over me in waves.

When I spoke with Judy a couple nights ago, she was so filled with joy about the peace God continues to provide her. She said, “You know, I just give Him thanks for everything I can think of every day. He has put me in this place of rest, like the ‘secret place’ where I am able to just talk to Him all day and all night long. I will continue to ask Him each day to show me His glory and I do believe I am feeling it and will see it soon! I feel wonderful. I am looking pretty good with new, natural curling hair (which she had us pray for after she lost hers due to chemo treatments) and I am eating and sleeping well. I have everything I need!” Her positive, life-filled words often bring their own conviction on each of us, her friends. She then asked me a question that I have often thought about in the past, but am now revisiting. “Judy, how do you see God?”

As it happened, I had been reading Ezekiel and all the above passages in relation to the “words” that my brothers had sent. I had this answer for her: “I believe God is Whoever you need Him to be at any given time and in any situation; I believe God is like “pure energy”. He is not constrained by time, distance, or space and He can take any form He needs to make Himself more real to you personally. It is why, I believe, that everyone will experience something different when they seek a personal touch from Him. It is why Moses, Ezekiel, the disciples, the blind, lame, addicted, hurting, lonely, isolated, and dying will see Him with different eyes, and will have all their needs fulfilled at “just the right time and in just the right way” and it will be “exactly what they will understand.” To be honest, I believe Ezekiel’s vision was the most accurate description of God; however, I am certain that each of you will have your own thoughts.

God is all-powerful (Omnipotent) Lord who has created all things and sustains them by the Word of His power (Genesis 1: 1-3; Hebrews 1: 3). He is the ruler of nature and history. In today’s world, this should bring you great peace for before Him, “…the nations are as a drop in a bucket, and are counted as small dust on the balance” (Isaiah 40: 15). Yet He has so fashioned us that He graciously appeals to every person to return to Him.

God has unlimited ability to be everywhere at all times (Omnipresent) and He reveals Himself in the Bible as the Lord who is everywhere. God was present as Lord in all creation (Psalm 139: 7-12) and there is no escaping Him. He is present in our thoughts, was present in the womb and is in all the days of our future. God sees “in secret and rewards in secret” and He looks not just on our outward actions, but even more closely at the attitudes of our heart (Matthew 6: 1-18). He is Sustainer of all things He has created and because He is everywhere, He is our great Comforter, Friend, and Redeemer!

God is perfect Wisdom; He knows all things (Omniscient). He knows each of your thoughts, all your ways, and even the words we have NOT yet spoken (Psalm 139: 1-6, 13-16). He has no need to consult with you or me for knowledge or understanding (Isaiah 40: 13, 14). He is all-knowing Lord who prophesies the events of the future, including the death of His Son (Isaiah 53) and the return of Christ at the end of this age when death will be finally overcome (Romans 8: 18-39; 1 Corinthians 15: 51-57). ONLY the all-knowing and all-powerful God can begin a process of change in each of us; for “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3: 17). What a glorious thing it is to KNOW that GOD HAS EVERYTHING IN CONTROL; what incredible PEACE He brings to all who believe! Hallelujah!

How great is Your goodness,
which You have stored up for those who fear You,
which You bestow in the sight of men
on those who take refuge in You.
In the shelter of Your presence You hide them
from the intrigues of men;
in Your dwelling you keep them safe
from accusing tongues.

Praise be to the LORD,
for He showed His wonderful love to me
when I was in a besieged city.
In my alarm I said,
“I am cut off from Your sight!”
Yet You heard my cry for mercy
when I called to You for help.

~ Psalm 31: 19-22 ~

The LORD would say unto you…
“Fasten your eyes on Me. Not with a shortened, nearsighted gaze, or with a faraway look in your eye, but with a true perspective. See and know the reality that nothing is created or held together except by Me. That is the great reality. I AM faithful. I reveal My secrets to those who love Me and seek My perfect ways. I appear to you so that you may speak and write, warn and witness of those things you have seen and those things I have yet to show you. Go forward and do My appointed tasks without fear and with strength, peace, and love. I AM is with you.”

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | December 3, 2013

A NEW ORDER FOR A NEW DAY!

“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Now the dwelling of God IS WITH men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the OLD ORDER of things has passed away.’ He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I AM making everything NEW!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’ He said to me: ‘IT IS DONE. I AM the Alpha and the Omega, the BEGINNING and the END. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life (see also, John 10: 10-13). He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be My son.” Revelation 21: 3-8

Many would say these verses are related to only the “New Jerusalem” and that the blessing God speaks of is scheduled for release at the end of this world order. In fact, it is stated in verse 4, “…the old order is passed away”. I feel in my spirit that there is another possibility that is valid within the context of these verses. I believe they are the words He has spoken and is speaking to every generation past, present, and future. I believe He is addressing our “OLD” status as sinners and is pointing to our NEW status as “born again believers in Jesus Christ” (John 3: 3-7; 1Peter 1: 22-25). He is saying that we can walk in VICTORY NOW; this very moment, with no more (spiritual, emotional) death, or mourning our lot in life, or crying, or pain (in body, soul, or spirit); that we are CONTINUALLY being transformed into His likeness! EVERY DAY… EVERYTHING NEW (Lamentations 3:22, 23)! How awesome is that?

He then said, “IT IS DONE!” He didn’t say, “In the millennium I will do this” or, “It’s for a far distant day in the future.” NO! He said, “IT IS DONE!” So, it is yours and it is mine for RIGHT NOW if we care to accept it through the HOPE Jesus Christ brings to our life. I believe this reasoning is correct because God knew the END from the BEGINNING and He has given ALL of it to us as a part of His NEW covenant blessing through the CROSS, the BLOOD of Jesus, the Resurrection and LIFE of Jesus, and the BIBLE (His ETERNAL Word). I draw your attention to the fact that He did say the promise “was for him who OVERCOMES” (see Revelation 12: 10, 11) and I am sure this is talking about His children walking in victory in spite of the cares and frustrations within their personal world. It is VICTORY indeed if each crisis can be seen as NEW opportunity to give God praise!

This past week I have been blessed by so many words of encouragement and it has been my privilege to pray for many who have various needs in their lives at this moment. My FIRST, and the most IMPORTANT prayer that I pray for all of you is that you have, or are developing, a “PERSONAL and INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP” with Jesus Christ. The world about us is operating under the DISORDERED & CHAOTIC rule of the “god of this earth,” but we are NOT OF THIS WORLD (John 16: 33; John 17:14-19). Hallelujah! You MUST stay “in the presence of Jesus” through the empowerment of Holy Spirit! It is VITAL for your spirit to stay strong and healthy despite what the enemy throws at you every chance he can!

I believe God has given these specific Scripture passages to help INCREASE your VICTORY in day to day warfare. SPEAK (pray) these words into your life:

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. There will be a tabernacle for shade in the daytime from the heat, for a place of refuge, and for a shelter from the storm, and rain. The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.” (Psalm 91:1; Isaiah 4: 6; Psalm 121: 5, 6)

“When my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble. You have been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; for the blast of the terrible ones is a storm against the wall.” (Psalm 61: 2; Psalm 32: 7; Isaiah 25: 4).

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. God alone is wise. Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Job 28:12; James 1: 5, 6; 1Timothy 1:17; Proverbs 3: 7)

“The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groaning that cannot be uttered.” (1John 2: 27; John 14: 26; Romans 8: 26)

My question: “Are you living in the NEW day?”

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Posted by: dailywordofdestiny | November 24, 2013

FAITH IN THE DAY OF ADVERSITY: COMPLETE TRUST IN GOD

Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength. But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness” (Jude 3; Philippians 1: 27, 28; Ephesians 4: 1-3; 1 Timothy 6: 12; Ephesians 6: 11, 12; Proverbs 24: 10; 2 Corinthians 12: 9, 10).

Faith means: belief, confidence, trust, security, assurance, certainty, conviction, persuasion.

‘The faith’ consists of the gospel proclaimed by Christ and the apostles. It is the fixed and unalterable truth, given by Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3: 14, 15) and embodied in the New Testament. However, ‘the faith’ is more than objective truth; it is a way of life to be lived in love and purity (Colossians 1: 9-14). In order to live in a manner worthy of the Lord, we must be strengthened by His power. It is a kingdom that comes in power to baptize all believers with God’s precious Holy Spirit, that they may proclaim the gospel to all nations (Mark 16: 15-18) with signs and miracles (Matthew 10: 1; 28: 18-20; John 10: 25; Acts 10: 38). It is an ongoing experience of receiving from God his own life; nothing else can enable us to overcome sin, Satan, and the world (Philippians 4: 13). Those of us who are faithful to Christ have a solemn obligation to contend for the faith (1 Timothy 6: 11-16).

Contend (Gk epagonizomai) describes the battle that the faithful believer must fight in defense of the faith. The word ‘fight’ is from the Greek word meaning “agonize.” Our Christian life is a fight, an intense struggle that requires persevering loyalty and obedience to Christ and it requires a personal defense of the gospel in whatever occupation or place that He has you situated in today (yes, even you mothers staying at home).

Contending for the faith also means that we must take a direct stand against those within the visible church who deny the Bible’s authority or distort the ancient faith as presented by Christ and the apostles. It is important that the gospel message is NOT weakened by compromise of its authority, distorting its truth, or explaining away its power and promises. As surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by me and Silas and Timothy, was not ‘Yes’ and ‘No,’ but in Him it has always been ‘YES.’ For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through Him, the “Amen” (see Revelation 3: 14) is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is GOD who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, and set His seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come (2 Corinthians 1: 18-22). “Amen” is a proclamation that expresses confidence in God’s love and faithfulness and the certainty of His promises. It is the VOICE OF FAITH, reaffirming and identifying with the truth of Christ’s unshakeable gospel!

It is important that each of us honestly assess our “faith level.” There are several in people in the New Testament who are examples of faith and their faith is at various levels. I will leave it to you to check each of them out in Judges 6, Mark 8: 22-25, Matthew 14: 28-31, and Matthew 8: 5-13. Whether these people had little or great faith is relatively unimportant. If you exercise your faith (whatever amount) it is enough to please God and He will do what needs to be done and more! Jesus says, “…I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. NOTHING will be IMPOSSIBLE for you” (Matthew 17: 20).

True faith is effective faith that produces results. It will move mountains. True faith is not a belief in “faith” as a force or power, but it is “faith in God” (Mark 11: 22-25). It is a work of God within each of our hearts as Christians (Philippians 2: 13) as it involves a divinely imparted awareness to our hearts that our prayers are answered. It is created within us by Holy Spirit; we CANNOT PRODUCE IT IN OUR OWN MINDS (Romans 12: 2, 3).

Since true faith is a gift imparted to us by Christ, it is MOST IMPORTANT to draw near to Christ and His Word and to deepen our COMMITMENT (CONTEND) to, and confidence in Him (Philippians 3: 15-21). We are dependent on Him for EVERYTHING; “apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:4-8; Hebrews 4: 14-16). We MUST SEEK HIM FIRST; He is the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12: 1-3. His close PRESENCE and our OBEDIENCE to His Word are the source and secret of true faith. Faith is under God’s control and it is given on the basis of His love, wisdom, grace, and for His kingdom purpose. It is given to accomplish His will and to express His love for us; not to be used for our own selfish agenda (James 4: 1-8).

The reality of all I have written is that it is not always easy for us to be faithful to Him. UNBELIEF negates His ability to do much in our lives; it actually neutralizes His ability to work within our lives (Matthew 9: 27-30; Mark 5: 25-36). A good example of this is recorded in Matthew 13: 53-58. I am contending for faith in Christ’s Word and in Mark 9 it outlines our need for personal recognition of our unbelief and need for Him. Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into the fire or water to kill him. But, IF You can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “If You can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; HELP ME OVERCOME MY UNBELIEF” (vs. 21-24)! I give Him praise that He understands and sympathizes with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4: 14-16). We MUST CONFESS our lack of faith and pray that He would give us the faith that is needed to move our personal mountains. Hallelujah!

Dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. Study God’s Word and make a determined effort to know the truth and teachings within the Scriptures; pray in the Spirit for He will inspire, guide, energize, sustain, and help you do battle in your praying; be faithful in your obedience to God’s Word; and finally and most importantly, stay IN LOVE WITH HIM; stay close to Him and bask in His presence for as long as you possibly can each day. For then you WILL SEE GREAT FAITH ARISE IN YOUR HEART and your strength to stand WILL BE SURE. God bless you.

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