"The Lord is Looking
for Excellence in Us"

"THE LORD HAS GIVEN THEM SPECIAL SKILLS as jewelers, designers, weavers, and embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn on fine linen cloth. THEY EXCEL IN ALL THE CRAFTS NEEDED FOR THE WORK". Exodus 35:35 NLT (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

"SINCE YOU EXCEL IN SO MANY WAYS--you have so much faith, such gifted speakers, such knowledge, such enthusiasm, and such love for us--NOW I WANT YOU TO EXCEL ALSO IN THIS GRACIOUS MINISTRY OF GIVING". 2 Corinthians 8:7 NLT (Capitals are mine for emphasis) HE WILL ACCEPT NOTHING LESS THAN OUR BEST. THE REASON? HE KNOWS WHAT IS IN US, AS "HE IS THE GIVER OF EVERY GOOD AND PERFECT GIFT", AND HE WAS THERE WHEN THE IMPARTATION TOOK PLACE God is a God of excellence. Because of this, He expects us to excel in "the specialty gifts" which are part of the endowment from our Creator . He will accept nothing less than our best. The reason? He knows what is in us, as "He is the giver of every good and perfect gift", and He was there when the impartation took place. The craftsmen of the world should so admire our creativity, that they model themselves after what we do, instead of the other way around. The anointing of the Holy Spirit makes the difference. A TREND IN THE LAST DECADE TO "DUMB DOWN THE GOSPEL" There has been a trend in the last decade to "dumb down the gospel" in order to reach everyone, not making it too complicated. Not only is this true in the realm of the church, but also in secular society. Very few movies today have an intelligent plot which carries through from beginning to end. Instead, the storyline and acting are predictably second-rate, so that the film has to depend on "special effects" to make it a box-office hit. MORE PEOPLE ARE BEING "SAVED", BUT UNFORTUNATELY, FEWER ARE "STICKING WITH IT" With few notable exceptions, lyrics in songs do not carry the weight of a life-changing message, but have become repetitious, with a more dominant beat than powerful words written by song writers of the past which found a lodging-place in our spirits. Even sermons--not all, but many--have taken on a pop-theology presentation and a feel-good psychology which offends no one. More people are being "saved", but unfortunately, fewer are "sticking with it". "OUR GOD DESERVES THE VERY BEST" WAS THE THEME OF THEIR MODE OF OPERATION In the divine architecture of the Tabernacle, the most talented craftsmen who excelled in special skills were chosen to perform the work for the house of God. No one who had a reputation of slipshod work was allowed on the project. The mentality of "cutting corners" found no place here. "Our God deserves the very best" was the theme of their mode of operation. The Holy Spirit does not only anoint ministers of the gospel, but He can give one-of-a-kind ideas to jewelers, designers, weavers and embroiderers, and cause their creations to be of such a higher quality than what the rest of society has to offer, they will bring glory to the Creator, God Himself. The world should bid high for our services which are replete with excellence. This includes all professions and jobs in the marketplace. MAY OUR VERY DECORUM, AND THE WAY WE PRESENT OURSELVES SHOW THAT WE ARE FROM ROYAL LINEAGE The Apostle Paul congratulated and commended the Corinthian church for her excellence. They excelled in faith, gifted speakers, knowledge, enthusiasm, and showing love for his apostolic team. Now, he challenged them to go a step further, and to "excel in the gracious ministry of giving". God wants us to become gracious givers, and to do it with finesse. God will be magnified as we learn to give things away with joy--only by His direction, and not emotional or coerced giving--excelling in love and grace. And, when it comes back to us--plus more--may we have a ministry of being a gracious receiver. The harvests from seeds we have previously planted are on the way. We are not beggars, but sons and daughters of the King of all kings. May our very decorum, and the way we present ourselves show that we are from royal lineage.

"Live Your Life Now
in the Light of Eternity"


"(God) WHO WILL RENDER TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS (works)". Romans 2:6 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

AFTER WE ARE BORN AGAIN, GOD GIVES US ASSIGNMENTS

We do not work to be saved, but we work because we are saved. Receiving salvation, the gift of God's grace by faith, is the only requirement for entrance into Heaven. After we are born again, God gives us assignments. We must be obedient and responsible with these entrustments, as this is how we will be judged for our eternal rewards and position in His emerging and future kingdom here on Earth.

THEY WILL BE GRANTED ADMITTANCE THROUGH THE GATES OF PEARL OF THE HEAVENLY CITY, BUT WITH NO REWARD. WHAT A TRAGEDY

This has nothing to do with our salvation, but is known in the Scripture as "the judgment seat of Christ". Some who are saved, but have no teaching, believe that they have been born again only to escape the flames of Hell, and enter through the gates of Heaven. They will be granted admittance through the gates of pearl of the heavenly city, but will have no reward. What a tragedy. Thank God they made it in, but with no position or authority. Because of a lack of knowledge their eternity has been minimized. They could have had so much more. This is why teaching, such as this one, is so important.

TIME IS A GIFT. THAT IS WHY IT IS CALLED "THE PRESENT"

What measure should we use to determine the success or failure of our daily lives? Here is the simple, yet profound answer: We must live our lives now in the light of eternity. What is important, and will make a significant difference not only for today, but in 10 years, and more seriously, in eternity? If something does not matter that much, why "make a big deal out of it"? Time is a gift. That is why it is called "the present". We must schedule our days, keeping in mind those things which make a difference and are profitable, while still allowing our schedule to be flexible and spontaneous.

THE EMPHASIS IS NOT ON ONLY BEING "A GOOD SERVANT", BUT BEING "A FAITHFUL ONE"

At the end of the journey, "in winner's circle", we want to hear Jesus say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter thou in to the joys of thy Lord". The emphasis is not on only being "a good servant", but being "a faithful one". Keeping our word, and fulfilling our promises is vital. If we cannot be counted on for what we say, then it is a serious flaw in our character. It is better not to make a promise, instead of trying to make someone feel good, giving them the impression that we care, and then doing nothing, letting everyone down because of "our empty words".

AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH DAY, LET US "HAVE A LITTLE TALK WITH JESUS", ASKING HIM TO DIRECT OUR PATH, OUR WORDS, OUR DEEDS--AND WHAT WE SHOULD NOT SAY OR DO--WHICH WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEBODY'S LIFE

May we not disappoint our Lord, but believing that everything we do--whether it be great or small--will have an eternal impact. At the beginning of each day, let us "have a little talk with Jesus", asking Him to direct our path, our words, our deeds--and what we should not say or do--which will make a difference in somebody's life. Then, at the end of the day, let us "take a personal inventory", and review the day's activities, "living our lives now in the light of eternity". How could it be better tomorrow, learning from our mistakes?

ONE OF MY AXIOMS FOR A PRACTICAL AND SATISFYING LIFE IS, "WHEN I DO MY BEST, HE WILL DO THE REST"

We do not live under condemnation, always rehearsing our failures of the past. Asking the Lord to forgive us, and help us do better in the future, "we commit our ways to the Lord". We can only do our best. One of my axioms for a practical and satisfying life is, "When I do my best, He will do the rest". Surrendering our limited abilities to the Holy Spirit with His unlimited ability to make things work for good, is one of the secrets of living now with an eye toward eternal benefits. This kind of life will "pay off with great dividends" at the end, which in reality will only be the beginning.

"Live Your Life Now
in the Light of Eternity"


"(God) WHO WILL RENDER TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS (works)". Romans 2:6 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

AFTER WE ARE BORN AGAIN, GOD GIVES US ASSIGNMENTS

We do not work to be saved, but we work because we are saved. Receiving salvation, the gift of God's grace by faith, is the only requirement for entrance into Heaven. After we are born again, God gives us assignments. We must be obedient and responsible with these entrustments, as this is how we will be judged for our eternal rewards and position in His emerging and future kingdom here on Earth.

THEY WILL BE GRANTED ADMITTANCE THROUGH THE GATES OF PEARL OF THE HEAVENLY CITY, BUT WITH NO REWARD. WHAT A TRAGEDY

This has nothing to do with our salvation, but is known in the Scripture as "the judgment seat of Christ". Some who are saved, but have no teaching, believe that they have been born again only to escape the flames of Hell, and enter through the gates of Heaven. They will be granted admittance through the gates of pearl of the heavenly city, but will have no reward. What a tragedy. Thank God they made it in, but with no position or authority. Because of a lack of knowledge their eternity has been minimized. They could have had so much more. This is why teaching, such as this one, is so important.

TIME IS A GIFT. THAT IS WHY IT IS CALLED "THE PRESENT"

What measure should we use to determine the success or failure of our daily lives? Here is the simple, yet profound answer: We must live our lives now in the light of eternity. What is important, and will make a significant difference not only for today, but in 10 years, and more seriously, in eternity? If something does not matter that much, why "make a big deal out of it"? Time is a gift. That is why it is called "the present". We must schedule our days, keeping in mind those things which make a difference and are profitable, while still allowing our schedule to be flexible and spontaneous.

THE EMPHASIS IS NOT ON ONLY BEING "A GOOD SERVANT", BUT BEING "A FAITHFUL ONE"

At the end of the journey, "in winner's circle", we want to hear Jesus say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter thou in to the joys of thy Lord". The emphasis is not on only being "a good servant", but being "a faithful one". Keeping our word, and fulfilling our promises is vital. If we cannot be counted on for what we say, then it is a serious flaw in our character. It is better not to make a promise, instead of trying to make someone feel good, giving them the impression that we care, and then doing nothing, letting everyone down because of "our empty words".

AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH DAY, LET US "HAVE A LITTLE TALK WITH JESUS", ASKING HIM TO DIRECT OUR PATH, OUR WORDS, OUR DEEDS--AND WHAT WE SHOULD NOT SAY OR DO--WHICH WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEBODY'S LIFE

May we not disappoint our Lord, but believing that everything we do--whether it be great or small--will have an eternal impact. At the beginning of each day, let us "have a little talk with Jesus", asking Him to direct our path, our words, our deeds--and what we should not say or do--which will make a difference in somebody's life. Then, at the end of the day, let us "take a personal inventory", and review the day's activities, "living our lives now in the light of eternity". How could it be better tomorrow, learning from our mistakes?

ONE OF MY AXIOMS FOR A PRACTICAL AND SATISFYING LIFE IS, "WHEN I DO MY BEST, HE WILL DO THE REST"

We do not live under condemnation, always rehearsing our failures of the past. Asking the Lord to forgive us, and help us do better in the future, "we commit our ways to the Lord". We can only do our best. One of my axioms for a practical and satisfying life is, "When I do my best, He will do the rest". Surrendering our limited abilities to the Holy Spirit with His unlimited ability to make things work for good, is one of the secrets of living now with an eye toward eternal benefits. This kind of life will "pay off with great dividends" at the end, which in reality will only be the beginning.

"Live Your Life Now
in the Light of Eternity"


"(God) WHO WILL RENDER TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS (works)". Romans 2:6 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

AFTER WE ARE BORN AGAIN, GOD GIVES US ASSIGNMENTS

We do not work to be saved, but we work because we are saved. Receiving salvation, the gift of God's grace by faith, is the only requirement for entrance into Heaven. After we are born again, God gives us assignments. We must be obedient and responsible with these entrustments, as this is how we will be judged for our eternal rewards and position in His emerging and future kingdom here on Earth.

THEY WILL BE GRANTED ADMITTANCE THROUGH THE GATES OF PEARL OF THE HEAVENLY CITY, BUT WITH NO REWARD. WHAT A TRAGEDY

This has nothing to do with our salvation, but is known in the Scripture as "the judgment seat of Christ". Some who are saved, but have no teaching, believe that they have been born again only to escape the flames of Hell, and enter through the gates of Heaven. They will be granted admittance through the gates of pearl of the heavenly city, but will have no reward. What a tragedy. Thank God they made it in, but with no position or authority. Because of a lack of knowledge their eternity has been minimized. They could have had so much more. This is why teaching, such as this one, is so important.

TIME IS A GIFT. THAT IS WHY IT IS CALLED "THE PRESENT"

What measure should we use to determine the success or failure of our daily lives? Here is the simple, yet profound answer: We must live our lives now in the light of eternity. What is important, and will make a significant difference not only for today, but in 10 years, and more seriously, in eternity? If something does not matter that much, why "make a big deal out of it"? Time is a gift. That is why it is called "the present". We must schedule our days, keeping in mind those things which make a difference and are profitable, while still allowing our schedule to be flexible and spontaneous.

THE EMPHASIS IS NOT ON ONLY BEING "A GOOD SERVANT", BUT BEING "A FAITHFUL ONE"

At the end of the journey, "in winner's circle", we want to hear Jesus say, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter thou in to the joys of thy Lord". The emphasis is not on only being "a good servant", but being "a faithful one". Keeping our word, and fulfilling our promises is vital. If we cannot be counted on for what we say, then it is a serious flaw in our character. It is better not to make a promise, instead of trying to make someone feel good, giving them the impression that we care, and then doing nothing, letting everyone down because of "our empty words".

AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH DAY, LET US "HAVE A LITTLE TALK WITH JESUS", ASKING HIM TO DIRECT OUR PATH, OUR WORDS, OUR DEEDS--AND WHAT WE SHOULD NOT SAY OR DO--WHICH WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEBODY'S LIFE

May we not disappoint our Lord, but believing that everything we do--whether it be great or small--will have an eternal impact. At the beginning of each day, let us "have a little talk with Jesus", asking Him to direct our path, our words, our deeds--and what we should not say or do--which will make a difference in somebody's life. Then, at the end of the day, let us "take a personal inventory", and review the day's activities, "living our lives now in the light of eternity". How could it be better tomorrow, learning from our mistakes?

ONE OF MY AXIOMS FOR A PRACTICAL AND SATISFYING LIFE IS, "WHEN I DO MY BEST, HE WILL DO THE REST"

We do not live under condemnation, always rehearsing our failures of the past. Asking the Lord to forgive us, and help us do better in the future, "we commit our ways to the Lord". We can only do our best. One of my axioms for a practical and satisfying life is, "When I do my best, He will do the rest". Surrendering our limited abilities to the Holy Spirit with His unlimited ability to make things work for good, is one of the secrets of living now with an eye toward eternal benefits. This kind of life will "pay off with great dividends" at the end, which in reality will only be the beginning.

"God is Speaking . . .
Is Anybody Listening?"

"Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, IF HE CALL THEE, THAT THOU SHALT SAY, SPEAK, LORD; FOR THY SERVANT HEARETH. So Samuel went and lay down in his place". 1 Samuel 3:9 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis) ONE ERA IS ENDING, WHILE THE STAGE IS BEING SET TO USHER IN THE NEXT ONE, THE KINGDOM OF GOD In spite of however it may seem, God is far from being silent in the Earth today. In one way or another, He is endeavoring to get His message across. The problem is not that He isn't talking. The truth is that most people are just not listening. On a regular basis, He is sending out His alerts and warnings, known as "signs of the times". Earthquakes in places where they do not usually occur. Tsunamis which rearrange the landscape. Killer storms. Dramatic changes in the weather. The whole planet is groaning, and in birth pangs signaling the fact that one era is ending, while the stage is being set to usher in the next one, the kingdom of God. FREEDOMS WE ONCE TOOK FOR GRANTED ARE BEING BRAZENLY SNATCHED AWAY WITH NO REGARD FOR THE FOUNDATIONS UPON WHICH OUR CHRISTIAN FAITH HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED These are turbulent times. Political upheaval is the order of the day. Politicians promise one thing, and without blinking an eye, do exactly the opposite. Trust in our leaders has been seriously eroded. Freedoms we once took for granted are brazenly being snatched away with no regard for the foundations upon which our Christian faith has been established. Our way of life is being threatened, and if we dare speak up in defense of right principles we are threatened with consequences. WE ARE ON THE VERGE OF ANOTHER EARTH-SHAKING "GREAT AWAKENING" What is God saying? God is still in control, and He is using the forces of Hell and darkness to send out the latest news flash that the manipulations of unredeemed human flesh at its best only produces chaos and confusion. The Almighty is in the process of turning it around at His own pleasure, and for the honor of His name. We are on the verge of another Earth-shaking "Great Awakening". The deeds done in darkness and the ploys hatched in smoked-filled back rooms are being exposed. Explosive revival and the great last day harvest of souls is being birthed. WE CALL IT "ESCAPIST THEOLOGY", AS THEY DO NOT KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH THE CESSPOOL OF WICKEDNESS BEING UNLEASHED UPON THE EARTH Those who wear the label of "prophecy teachers" only research and proclaim the present evil "to prove their point" that we are living in the last days, and Jesus may come at any moment. They perform a service, but tend to believe that things are getting so bad, that the only answer is the rapture. We call it "escapist theology", as they do not know how to deal with the cesspool of wickedness being unleashed upon the Earth. They produce weak Christians. If Jesus does not come soon, their converts will fall by the wayside, as they have not been taught how to be overcomers, and live in victory. This is what the Scripture describes as "the great falling away". REGARDLESS OF WHAT THE DEVIL THROWS AT US, WE DO NOT BECOME WEAKER, BUT STRONGER On the other hand, we teach how to live the overcoming life. Yes, we believe that Jesus is coming again, but we do not hold it out as an escape to get out of the troubles this world is experiencing. We teach change in one's life, and responsible character which emerges victorious no matter what the challenge is. Regardless of what the devil throws at us, we do not become weaker, but stronger. We are learning that stress can build strength, and frustration does not have to cause fear and failure, but can create a foundation of faith and fortitude. GOD DID NOT CAUSE THE DISASTER, BUT HE REMOVED HIS HAND OF PROTECTION On the 19th April, the U.S. President announced that he and his administration would no longer side with Israel in the dispute with the Palestinians, but would support the United Nations in condemning Israel. The next day, the U.S. experienced its worst natural disaster in history with the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. God did not cause the disaster, but He removed His hand of protection. In 2005, then President Bush and Secretary of State Rice urged Israel to give away land to Palestine which God had promised them in the Abrahamic Covenant. Right after that, the U.S. was hit with Hurricane Katrina, which all but destroyed the city of New Orleans. From the book of Genesis on God has said that He would bless those who bless Israel, and curse those who curse Israel. Is God speaking? You decide. The timing of these incidents did not occur by accident. ARE WE GETTING THE RIGHT MESSAGE? NOT JUST BITS AND PIECES, JUMPING TO OUR OWN CONCLUSIONS As God spoke to the lad Samuel, may we develop a sensitivity to hear His voice, and discern what He is saying. Jesus encouraged us to become as a little child in our faith and purity. God is speaking. Are we listening? And, over and above that, are we getting the right message? Not just bits and pieces, jumping to our own conclusions, but are we really hearing what God is saying in these perilous times?

Are You Caught in the Trap of
PERFORMANCE-BASED CHRISTIANITY?"

"FOR BY GRACE (the gift of divine favor) ARE YE SAVED THROUGH FAITH; and that not of yourselves: IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD: Not of works, lest any man should boast". Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

THE PRICE FOR OUR SALVATION HAS ALREADY BEEN PAID FOR IN FULL

The love of God is unconditional. There is nothing we can do to earn God's favor. The price for our salvation has already been paid for in full. What Jesus did for us on the cross is complete. There is nothing we can do to add to it. That is why He cried out before committing His soul to the Father, "It is finished".

THEY ARGUED THAT IT WAS ALSO NECESSARY FOR ALL MALE GENTILE CONVERTS TO CHRIST TO BE CIRCUMCISED IN THE FLESH

In the first century church there were religious people who claimed that in order to be saved, confessing one's sins to Jesus, asking Him for forgiveness, and receiving Him as personal Savior was not enough. They argued that it was also necessary for all male Gentile converts to Christ to be circumcised in the flesh. Others insisted that everyone come under the bondage of legalism, obeying Levitical laws, and worshiping God on certain days.

NO MATTER HOW HARD WE TRY IN THE FLESH, OUR SELF-EFFORTS FALL FAR SHORT OF REACHING THE STANDARD OF GOD'S PERFECTION AND HOLINESS

Trying to be "good enough" by constantly striving and straining to please God only produces frustration, and a miserable existence. No matter how hard we try in the flesh, our self-efforts fall far short of reaching the standard of God's perfection and holiness. Without putting it into specific words, we have been subconsciously taught that in order for God to be pleased with us, and love us, we have to work, doing certain things to gain His favor. It is "performance-based Christianity".

IT IS A GIFT. TO TRY TO EARN IT IS AN INSULT TO GOD

We must come to the place in our personal relationship with the Lord where we accept His unconditional love. It is a gift. To try to earn it is an insult to God. Why would we want to pay for it, when He offers to give it to us. Jesus gave His life to purchase our redemption. To act as though there is something we could do to improve on the purchase of our eternal life is to imply that we think the value of the blood of Jesus shed on our behalf is inadequate.

IT IS "THROUGH HIS SINLESS BLOOD ALONE" THAT WE ARE MADE WORTHY TO APPROACH THE THRONE OF GOD, AND TO BE GRANTED AN AUDIENCE WITH THE LORD

The acceptance of the gift of salvation is completely through faith. If we could work for it, we could boast about how we deserve to inherit eternal life. Feeding the poor, or sleeping on a bed of nails will not make us worthy of this gift. We come to Jesus "just as we are", with no goodness of our own, as the Scripture says, "our righteousness is as filthy rags". We cannot pay for anything which has already been paid for. It is "through His sinless blood alone" that we are made worthy to approach the throne of God, and to be granted an audience by the Lord.

"Experiencing Your Expectations"

"And be not conformed (another pattern than the intended one) to this world: but BE YE TRANSFORMED (transfigured from one form to another) BY THE RENEWING (total changing for the better) OF YOUR MIND, THAT YE MAY PROVE (by experience) what is that good, and acceptable, and PERFECT (intended fulfillment of expectations), WILL OF GOD" Romans 12:2 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

HOPEFULLY, TRANSITION WILL LEAD TO TRANSFORMATION

All of us are going through some kind of upheaval and change. It is during these times of uncertainty that we pray for something better than we have known previously. Hopefully, transition will lead to transformation. Most people resist change, as it is "their security blanket". It is the fear of the unknown which hinders progress and spiritual growth. Without the daily exercise of our faith we cannot plunge into the future with confidence and assurance of a positive result.

IF THERE IS NO RESISTANCE, WE ARE HEADED IN THE WRONG DIRECTION

All of Hell will contest our moving ahead in life's race toward our goals. Salmon swim upstream. The ones flowing with the current of that same river are those who are floating on top of the water--dead. If there is no resistance, we are headed in the wrong direction, being conformed to the pattern of the world's godless social system. The Phillips translation says, "Don't let the world squeeze you into its mold".

OUR RESPONSE TO LIFE'S UNEXPECTED UPSETS WILL CAUSE US TO EMERGE EITHER BITTER OR BETTER

If we resist and refuse change, life will pass us by. We disqualify ourselves from being world changers if we do not place ourselves in a position for personal change. When "the earthquake of change" knocks out the props from underneath us, we have a choice. Our response to life's unexpected upsets will cause us to emerge either bitter or better.

THE "BATTLEGROUND IS THE MIND". MOVING IN "THE FLESH" IS "A NEGATIVE WAY OF THINKING"

When we do not surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit when we are being assaulted by the fears and frustrations of a changing world, we will regress and go backwards. The "battleground is the mind". Moving in "the flesh" is "a negative way of thinking". It is only when we move in the Spirit--surrendering our human spirit to God's Spirit--that our mind can be transformed and renewed.

WE EXPERIENCE OUR EXPECTATIONS

The Holy Spirit's prescription to "prove the will of God" for our lives is by having a transformed mind. When we think new thoughts--"God thoughts"--we begin to develop our expectations of stepping up into a higher level of living. Then, and only then can we experience our expectations. We do not live in a fantasy world filled with illusive dreams, but come into a reality of all we can be in Christ.

"Experiencing Your Expectations"

"And be not conformed (another pattern than the intended one) to this world: but BE YE TRANSFORMED (transfigured from one form to another) BY THE RENEWING (total changing for the better) OF YOUR MIND, THAT YE MAY PROVE (by experience) what is that good, and acceptable, and PERFECT (intended fulfillment of expectations), WILL OF GOD" Romans 12:2 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

HOPEFULLY, TRANSITION WILL LEAD TO TRANSFORMATION

All of us are going through some kind of upheaval and change. It is during these times of uncertainty that we pray for something better than we have known previously. Hopefully, transition will lead to transformation. Most people resist change, as it is "their security blanket". It is the fear of the unknown which hinders progress and spiritual growth. Without the daily exercise of our faith we cannot plunge into the future with confidence and assurance of a positive result.

IF THERE IS NO RESISTANCE, WE ARE HEADED IN THE WRONG DIRECTION

All of Hell will contest our moving ahead in life's race toward our goals. Salmon swim upstream. The ones flowing with the current of that same river are those who are floating on top of the water--dead. If there is no resistance, we are headed in the wrong direction, being conformed to the pattern of the world's godless social system. The Phillips translation says, "Don't let the world squeeze you into its mold".

OUR RESPONSE TO LIFE'S UNEXPECTED UPSETS WILL CAUSE US TO EMERGE EITHER BITTER OR BETTER

If we resist and refuse change, life will pass us by. We disqualify ourselves from being world changers if we do not place ourselves in a position for personal change. When "the earthquake of change" knocks out the props from underneath us, we have a choice. Our response to life's unexpected upsets will cause us to emerge either bitter or better.

THE "BATTLEGROUND IS THE MIND". MOVING IN "THE FLESH" IS "A NEGATIVE WAY OF THINKING"

When we do not surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit when we are being assaulted by the fears and frustrations of a changing world, we will regress and go backwards. The "battleground is the mind". Moving in "the flesh" is "a negative way of thinking". It is only when we move in the Spirit--surrendering our human spirit to God's Spirit--that our mind can be transformed and renewed.

WE EXPERIENCE OUR EXPECTATIONS

The Holy Spirit's prescription to "prove the will of God" for our lives is by having a transformed mind. When we think new thoughts--"God thoughts"--we begin to develop our expectations of stepping up into a higher level of living. Then, and only then can we experience our expectations. We do not live in a fantasy world filled with illusive dreams, but come into a reality of all we can be in Christ.

"Are You Caught in the Trap of
PERFORMANCE-BASED CHRISTIANITY?"

"FOR BY GRACE (the gift of divine favor) ARE YE SAVED THROUGH FAITH; and that not of yourselves: IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD: Not of works, lest any man should boast". Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

THE PRICE FOR OUR SALVATION HAS ALREADY BEEN PAID FOR IN FULL

The love of God is unconditional. There is nothing we can do to earn God's favor. The price for our salvation has already been paid for in full. What Jesus did for us on the cross is complete. There is nothing we can do to add to it. That is why He cried out before committing His soul to the Father, "It is finished".

THEY ARGUED THAT IT WAS ALSO NECESSARY FOR ALL MALE GENTILE CONVERTS TO CHRIST TO BE CIRCUMCISED IN THE FLESH

In the first century church there were religious people who claimed that in order to be saved, confessing one's sins to Jesus, asking Him for forgiveness, and receiving Him as personal Savior was not enough. They argued that it was also necessary for all male Gentile converts to Christ to be circumcised in the flesh. Others insisted that everyone come under the bondage of legalism, obeying Levitical laws, and worshiping God on certain days.

NO MATTER HOW HARD WE TRY IN THE FLESH, OUR SELF-EFFORTS FALL FAR SHORT OF REACHING THE STANDARD OF GOD'S PERFECTION AND HOLINESS

Trying to be "good enough" by constantly striving and straining to please God only produces frustration, and a miserable existence. No matter how hard we try in the flesh, our self-efforts fall far short of reaching the standard of God's perfection and holiness. Without putting it into specific words, we have been subconsciously taught that in order for God to be pleased with us, and love us, we have to work, doing certain things to gain His favor. It is "performance-based Christianity".

IT IS A GIFT. TO TRY TO EARN IT IS AN INSULT TO GOD

We must come to the place in our personal relationship with the Lord where we accept His unconditional love. It is a gift. To try to earn it is an insult to God. Why would we want to pay for it, when He offers to give it to us. Jesus gave His life to purchase our redemption. To act as though there is something we could do to improve on the purchase of our eternal life is to imply that we think the value of the blood of Jesus shed on our behalf is inadequate.

IT IS "THROUGH HIS SINLESS BLOOD ALONE" THAT WE ARE MADE WORTHY TO APPROACH THE THRONE OF GOD, AND TO BE GRANTED AN AUDIENCE WITH THE LORD

The acceptance of the gift of salvation is completely through faith. If we could work for it, we could boast about how we deserve to inherit eternal life. Feeding the poor, or sleeping on a bed of nails will not make us worthy of this gift. We come to Jesus "just as we are", with no goodness of our own, as the Scripture says, "our righteousness is as filthy rags". We cannot pay for anything which has already been paid for. It is "through His sinless blood alone" that we are made worthy to approach the throne of God, and to be granted an audience by the Lord.

"Present Activity Will Produce Future Results"

"Being confident of this very thing, that HE WHICH HATH BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL PERFORM IT (perfect it; bring it to its proper conclusion) UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST". Philippians 1:6 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

IF ONLY OUR SPIRITUAL EYES WOULD BE OPENED--IF JUST FOR A MOMENT--WE WOULD BE ASTOUNDED AT WHAT GOD IS DOING "BEHIND-THE-SCENES"

Do you ever wonder if anything good is happening in your life? Where is God? Is He doing anything? At times it may seem like "same old, same old thing". If only our spiritual eyes would be opened--if just for a moment--we would be astounded at what God is doing "behind-the-scenes". He is at work beyond what our imagination can conceive.

IF HE BUILT BENCHES, TABLES AND PLOWS WHILE HERE, WHAT KIND OF MANSION IS HE CONSTRUCTING FOR US ON THE CORNER OF HALLELUJAH BOULEVARD AND GOLDEN AVENUE?

Jesus was a carpenter when He was here on Earth. His "building skills" in Heaven must be beyond anything that we have ever seen or experienced before. If He built benches, tables and plows while here, what kind of mansion is He constructing for us on the corner of Hallelujah Boulevard and Golden Avenue? This verse encourages us to be confident, and to have bold assurance that we have not been forsaken, and left alone to go the rest of the journey by ourselves. What was the Apostle confident about? He specifically qualifies it as "this very thing".

HE HAS "A PERFORMANCE BOND", SO THAT HALF-WAY THROUGH THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT, HE WILL NOT DECLARE BANKRUPTCY

God has begun a good work in us. He Who is the Author of redemption in our lives, is also the Finisher. Our Lord does not start something He cannot see through to its conclusion. He has "a performance bond", so that half-way through the construction project, He will not declare bankruptcy. We have His word, "He will perform it", by bringing it to its proper conclusion.

IT WILL GO ON WITHOUT INTERRUPTION OR INTERFERENCE UNTIL WE SEE JESUS FACE-TO-FACE--"THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST"

How long will His promise "to stay on the job" continue? It will go on without interruption or interference until we see Jesus face-to-face--"the day of Jesus Christ". So, "until then", we can boldly proceed with confidence that Jesus never leaves anything He starts unfinished. What will keep us going when the going gets rough? God's present activity on our behalf will produce future results.

WHAT WE CANNOT NOW SEE WILL BE REVEALED AT THE PROPER TIME

Something good is about to happen for us. It is still in its construction stage. God is "not on strike". Neither is He on holiday or resting from His labors. It is no time to grow discouraged. Our faith is being stretched. What we cannot now see will be revealed at the proper time. If we quit, then it will all be in vain. Our miracle is now in the making.

"The Pressure Treasure"

"And he (Jesus) went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were SORE AMAZED IN THEMSELVES BEYOND MEASURE (more than anything they had ever previously experienced), and WONDERED (were in wonder and marveled)". Mark 6:51 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

MOST NATURAL DIAMONDS ARE FORMED AT HIGH-PRESSURE, HIGH-TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS

The name "diamond" comes from an ancient Greek word which means "unbreakable". Most natural diamonds are formed at high-pressure, high-temperature conditions existing at depths of 140 to 190 kilometers (87 to 120 miles) in the mantle of the Earth. Carbon-containing minerals provide the carbon source, and growth occurs over periods of at least one billion years, scientists tell us. Diamonds are brought close to the surface of the Earth through deep volcanic eruptions by a magma, which cools into igneous rocks.

THE DIAMOND HAS REMARKABLE OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS, AND AN UNUSUAL TRANSPARENCY

Being the most popular of all gemstones, the diamond has remarkable optical characteristics, and an unusual transparency. Also, it has a relatively high optical dispersion, which is the ability to disperse light of different colors, which results in its one-of-a-kind luster.

YOU ARE "A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH"

If you are a believer in Christ, you are "a diamond in the rough". Jesus is with you, but in spite of His presence, a storm may be raging in your life. Be assured that eventually the winds of opposition will cease, simply because Jesus is present. But, in the meantime, the pressure from difficult circumstances still surrounds you. Why is this allowed to continue seemingly unabated?

IN ORDER FOR IT TO BE TRANSPARENT, WITH UNUSUAL REFLECTIVE QUALITIES IT HAS TO GO THROUGH A PERIOD OF INTENSE PRESSURE

An exquisite and valuable diamond is being formed. It is deep within your spirit. Only through pressure can this treasure be realized and released. In order for it to be transparent, with unusual reflective qualities it has to go through a period of intense pressure, and high-temperature conditions to wear away foreign material which would hinder its beauty and rarity from being realized in your life. Not only that, but rare and worthwhile quality is being formed within the diamond itself.

AT TIMES THE HEAT SEEMS SO OVERWHELMING IT IS ALMOST UNBEARABLE

This divinely transforming process does not take place over night. At times the heat seems so overwhelming it is almost unbearable. When you are going through this, just remember that in the midst of spiritual volcanic activity, a diamond is closer to the surface in your life than ever before, and it is about to erupt. What has been going on in secret is about to be made public. You will never be the same again.

GOD IS PERFORMING A WORK WITHIN YOU WHICH WILL BE ETERNAL

Complaining, mixed together with murmuring and unbelief will hinder the development of the creation of the Creator within your being. Only faith-filled confessions of the Word of God will cause a perfected diamond to come forth. Remember, the diamond is a hard surface, and cannot be easily destroyed. That is what is evolving within your spirit. God is performing a work within you which will be eternal.

THE FINISHED WORK WILL CAUSE YOU TO BEHOLD "BEYOND MEASURE" THE CREATION THAT ONLY THE ALMIGHTY COULD CARVE OUT OF YOUR WOUNDED SPIRIT

The storm has been "beyond measure", as you never thought you would be subjected to such intense pressure. But, as the treasure of the diamond emerges, you will be filled with wonderment, and marvel at the works of your God, the Master Diamond Producer and Cutter. And, the finished work will cause you to behold "beyond measure" the creation that only the Almighty could carve out of your wounded spirit. That is the God we serve. No wonder we love Him so much! He is beyond compare. And, to think He is spending so much time and loving care with each of us to bring out something so beautiful that we never knew was there, but He saw it all along. He will never give up on us until the process is complete.

AMAZING

My Adventures with the Almighty
"The Amazing Precision
of
God's Perfect Timing"

" . . . A TIME to plant, and A TIME to pluck up that which is planted". Ecclesiastes 3:2b KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

UNDER THE REPRESSIVE REGIME OF COMMUNISM, PARENTS WERE NOT ALLOWED TO TEACH THEIR OWN CHILDREN ANYTHING WHICH PERTAINED TO CHRISTIANITY OR RELIGION

I remember it so well as though it were only yesterday. With an urgency, the message came from the Holy Spirit to collect three sets of puppets immediately to take to the Soviet Union which was on the verge of collapse. Under the repressive regime of Communism, parents were not allowed to teach their own children anything which pertained to Christianity or religion. If they did so, and it was found out, they were subject to arrest, paying hefty fines, and spending time in prison. The USSR had decreed that all children did not belong to their parents, but were "property of the state".

SHE BLAMED GOD FOR THE TERRIBLE CALAMITIES WHICH HAD HAPPENED IN HER LIFE

At that time I did not know the complexity of the laws in that part of the world. All I knew was that I felt impressed in my spirit that equipping people half way around the planet to do children's ministry was what I should do. At that time, a lady who had been embittered by her daughter's death became a hopeless alcoholic. She blamed God for the terrible calamities which had happened in her life. Miraculously she was converted to Christ, and delivered from her drinking addiction during an 11 week revival I was preaching in Covina, California.

SHE SAID THAT SHE WOULD GIVE ME ALL THE PUPPETS IN THE DISPLAY

Through the succeeding years, she preached revival meetings, and later became the wholesale show room manager for a toy company at the L. A. Mart in Los Angeles, California. One day when I was visiting her there, I noticed some puppets on display. When I mentioned it to her, she said that they were phasing them out. After telling her about my vision for children's ministries in the Soviet Union, she said that she would give me all the puppets in the display.

I SHARED MY VISION WITH ONE OF THE LOCAL PASTORS. HE HAD NEVER HEARD OF A PUPPET MINISTRY, BUT WAS THRILLED

As it turned out, there were three complete sets of puppets. I envisioned one set for Moscow, Russia; a second set for Leningrad (later going back to its original name of Saint Petersburg), Russia; and the third set for Kiev, Ukraine. When our group arrived in the USSR, I shared my vision with one of the local pastors. He had never heard of a puppet ministry, but was thrilled, and assured me that his children's workers in the church would have no problem learning how to use them, and relate them to Bible stories.

AS COMMUNISM WAS IN THE PROCESS OF FAILING AND FALLING, THAT LAW HAD BEEN RESCINDED, AND I HAD ARRIVED WITH THE PUPPETS JUST AS IT BECAME LEGAL TO USE THEM

What caused him the greatest surprise and joy in receiving the puppets was the fact that just the week before children in his country were still property of the state and such an outreach for them was forbidden. But, as Communism was in the process of failing and falling, that law had been rescinded, and I had arrived with the puppets just as it became legal to use them. It was a testimony to the amazing precision of God's perfect timing. Some of our group used them to tell a story about Jesus in the main shopping mall in Moscow, right across from the Kremlin. Crowds gathered to see the novelty, and for the first time heard about our Lord and His love for them.

IT APPEARED TO A POTENTIAL OF 45 MILLION VIEWERS THAT NIGHT ON THE EVENING NEWS (IT WAS THE ONE AND ONLY TELEVISION CHANNEL THERE AT THAT TIME)

When we arrived in Kiev, Ukraine, one of the pastors was so excited, he arranged for a couple in our group, Billy and Patty Watson, to do a puppet show for the students in one of the schools. What was so astounding was that the show about Jesus, geared for children, was not only seen in the school classroom, but the Ukraine state television had been alerted to film it, and it appeared to a potential of 45 million viewers that night on the evening news (it was the one and only television channel there at that time). You can't buy publicity or get an audience like that together at the last minute--and it was all for free. Christianity on a child's level was now being presented on a station which had been built by atheists to propagate their godless agenda. Later, a Nigerian brother came to Kiev, and today he is pastor of the largest evangelical church in all of Europe. That's just one example of God's precision perfect kingdom timing. Are you trusting the Lord today to meet you, and supply your needs? He will not be late, even though it sometimes seems that way, but He will be right on time.

THE BABY STARTS KICKING

"Your Baby Will Start Kicking When He Hears a Prophetic Word"

"And it came to pass, that, WHEN ELIZABETH HEARD THE SALUTATION OF MARY, THE BABE LEAPED IN HER WOMB; and ELIZABETH WAS FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST". Luke 1:41 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

"LOGOS" REFERS REFERS TO THE TOTAL INSPIRED WORD OF GOD, AND TO JESUS, WHO IS THE LIVING WORD

There are two primary Greek words that describe "Scripture", which are translated "word" in the New Testament. The first, "logos", refers principally to the total inspired Word of God, and to Jesus, Who is the living Word. "In the beginning was the Word (logos), and the Word (logos) was with God, and the Word (logos) was God". John 1:1 KJV.

"RHEMA" IS A VERSE OR PORTION OF SCRIPTURE WHICH THE HOLY SPIRIT BRINGS TO OUR ATTENTION WITH APPLICATION TO A CURRENT SITUATION, OR NEED FOR DIRECTION

The second primary Greek word that describes Scripture is "rhema", which refers to a word which is spoken, and means “an utterance.” A rhema is a verse or portion of Scripture which the Holy Spirit brings to our attention with application to a current situation, or need for direction. Jesus stated, "The words (rhema) that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life". John 6:63 KJV. When God gives a rhema for us to act upon, He often confirms it by a second rhema, that "in the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word (rhema) be established". 2 Corinthians 13:1 KJV.

WHEN SOMEONE WHO "CARRIES THE SPIRIT OF JESUS WITH THEM" SPEAKS AN ANOINTED WORD, THAT WHICH THE HOLY SPIRIT IS BIRTHING WITHIN YOU WILL RESPOND WITH JOY, AND AS IT WERE, WILL "START KICKING LIKE A BABY IN HIS MOTHER'S WOMB"

When Mary was three months pregnant with Jesus, she went to stay with her cousin Elizabeth, who was six months pregnant with John the Baptist. When Mary greeted her cousin, little John leaped in his mother's womb, and she was filled with the Holy Spirit. When someone who "carries the spirit of Jesus with them" speaks an anointed word, that which the Holy Spirit is birthing within you will respond with joy, and as it were, will "start kicking like a baby in his mother's womb". Not only was little John energized by the Spirit, but also his mother was empowered to continue carrying him.

A PROPHETIC WORD SPOKEN BY ONE WHO MOVES IN THE ANOINTING WILL SPARK ADDITIONAL LIFE TO WHAT IS GROWING AND PROSPERING "IN YOUR SPIRITUAL WOMB"

This is why it is important that we "hang out with the right people". We need to seek out those who flow in the realm of the Spirit. They understand what is happening with us, and as a result, are better equipped to encourage and lift us up. When they speak "a rhema word"--a promise with our name on it--what is being birthed in us will bear witness, and leap for joy. To put it another way, "your baby will start kicking". A prophetic word spoken by one who moves in the anointing will spark additional life to what is growing and prospering "in your spiritual womb". This is an impartation of health and nutrition.

IF WE WANT THE SEED OF THE WORD TO BE WELL NOURISHED, AND HAVE A HEAD START IN LIFE, THEN WE NEED TO BELIEVE THE LORD TO SURROUND US NOT JUST WITH "LOGOS CHRISTIANS", BUT WITH "RHEMA BELIEVERS"

If we need "general support", then we associate with average, garden-variety, orthodox Christians. They know the Word, and can be supportive. We appreciate them, and have nothing against them. They will be helpful. But, if we want the seed of the Word to be well nourished, and have a head start in life, then we need to believe the Lord to surround us not just with "logos Christians", but with "rhema believers". These people are alive with the presence and power of the Spirit, as they know how to move in praise and worship, intercede until they touch Heaven, and "zero-in" on what we need at this particular stage of our development.

WELL-MEANING RELIGIOUS PEOPLE WILL BRING DEATH TO YOUR VISION, AS THEY HAVE NO COMPREHENSION OF WHAT GOD IS DOING IN YOUR LIFE

Mary, the mother of Jesus, did not stick around those who did not understand anything about her miraculous conception by God Himself. They knew nothing about a virgin birth. Sincere, but bound by the law, they judged her falsely, thinking that they were being true to the precepts of holiness and righteousness. If she had stayed with the orthodox religious crowd she would have been stoned. The "letter of the law" kills, but "the Spirit" brings life. Well-meaning religious people will bring death to your vision, as they have no comprehension of what God is doing in your life. But, she knew she was carrying a miracle--the future Miracle Worker--and consecrated herself not to let anything injurious happen to Him. This was "her holy responsibility", and she honored the fact that she had been chosen by God to bring Jesus into the world. Learn to "protect what God is doing in you".

STAY AROUND THOSE WHO MOVE IN THE TRUE PROPHETIC, AS THEIR ANOINTED RHEMA WORDS WILL BRING YOU TO FULL TERM

If you are birthing a ministry, and coming into the next level of your spiritual development, stay around those who move in the true prophetic, as their anointed rhema words will bring you to full term. Your "baby" will bear witness to the living Word which will be the exact thing that you and him need to hear at the right time and place. Do not despise the prophesying of those who you can trust with your life, and the life of God within you. Is "your baby" alive and kicking, ready for birthing?

YOU CAN ENCOURAGE OR DISCOURAGE OTHERS

"We Can Encourage or Discourage Creativity in Others"

"Bear ye (carry; lift up; take upon yourself what is somebody else's; encourage) one another's burdens (loads; responsibilities), and so fulfil (fill to the brim; supply) the law (producing that which is pleasing to God) of Christ (the Anointed One)". Galatians 6:2 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

WHEN WE OFFER "OUR SMILE OF APPROVAL" ON THE EFFORTS OF OTHERS, AND IT HELPS BRING THEIR GIFTINGS INTO FRUITION, WE WILL SHARE THE JOY OF THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

It is pleasing to the Lord, and it is "in the perfect will of God" that we encourage the creativity which is buried inside others to be discovered and activated. Conversely, it displeases the Lord when we discourage someone else's development and productivity by acting as though what they have to offer is inferior and of no value. When we offer "our smile of approval" on the efforts of others, and it helps bring their giftings into fruition, we will share the joy of their accomplishments. If, on the other hand, we are critical of their dreams, and belittle them, we will be held accountable for participating in the destruction of something which could have been beautiful and productive.

IT IS NOT JUST FOCUSING ON NEGATIVE STRUGGLES, BUT IT CAN ALSO INCLUDE HELPING OTHERS OVERCOME THEIR FEARS AND FRUSTRATIONS OF BECOMING EVERYTHING THEY CAN AND COULD BE

When the Scripture talks about bearing one another's burdens, it is not just focusing on negative struggles, but it can also include helping others overcome their fears and frustrations of becoming everything they can and could be. When a friend has a creative idea, just "a look of approval or disapproval" can speak volumes. To those who are still weak in their faith, it can convey the all important message of either, "that has possibilities", or "how dumb".

DOES THAT SOUND TOO HARSH? NO, IT IS JUST THE TRUTH

Have you ever met negative people that no matter what you say, they verbally disagree with you. And if they have nothing negative to say, they withhold their praise, and if they are having a good day, their commendation is cool, and their all out enthusiasm is non-existent. Being "possessed by a critical spirit", they wait to pounce on anyone who in their eyes makes a mistake. Acting in such a manner is a serious offense against God, and that person will be held accountable on the day of judgment. Does that sound too harsh? No, it is just the truth. By selfishly refusing to help another person to achieve success and feel good about himself, they are guilty of being responsible for part of another's failure.

IT IS AN ANOINTED WORK. THIS IS WHAT JESUS WOULD DO

When we encourage others in their endeavors, and give them "an emotional boost", we are engaged in "the blessed assignment" of fulfilling the law of the Anointed One. It is an anointed work. Instead of feeling worthless and inferior ourselves--but hiding it by constantly putting others down, and not acknowledging their potential--we come into "partnership" with them, by pointing them in the right direction. This is what Jesus would do. We are carrying on His work in the Earth. This is the ministry of encouragement.

IT IS NOT FOR THEM ALONE, BUT FOR THE GLORY OF GOD

Of course, in "the growth process" there will come a time when all of us must learn to stand on our own two feet. But, during the formative time of development, we play an integral part of imparting security to those who are struggling to find the right path for themselves. When they have breakthroughs of success and make achievements for themselves, it is not for them alone, but for the glory of God. Bearing burdens--hurtful ones, as well as potentially good ones--is performing the ministry of Christ.

YES, IT IS "A BURDEN TO CARRY" WHEN ONE FEELS DIFFERENT FROM EVERYONE ELSE. WE ARE CALLED TO BE SUPPORTIVE, TO HELP BRING OUT THE HIDDEN TALENTS AND ABILITIES OF OTHERS

How can a burden be a good thing? A genius is unlike most people, and often feels isolated and alone. An artist has ideas locked up inside his spirit, but has never seen the work of another artist which quite compares with what he feels he can create. Yes, it is "a burden to carry", when one feels different from everyone else. We are called to be supportive, to help bring out the hidden talents and abilities of others. Do you want to please the Lord? Involve yourself in the supportive ministry of encouragement. At times it may be a thankless task, but in the end it will pay great dividends of fulfillment.

THE STILL SMALL VOICE

"That Still Small Voice is the Holy Spirit Speaking"

"And THE SPIRIT BADE (spoke; commanded with authority and urgency) ME GO with them, nothing doubting . . . " Paul, Acts 11:12a KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

"And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire A STILL SMALL VOICE". 1 Kings 19:12 KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

IT IS THE SAME HOLY SPIRIT AT WORK IN US

I hesitate to describe exactly how it works with me, as each of us is a little different. It may happen with you another way than it does with me. But, basically, I think that the way it takes place is fairly similar, as it is the same Holy Spirit at work in us. What I am writing about is "how we know in our knower" when the Holy Spirit is speaking, and urging us to do something specific.

IT IS USUALLY NOT SOMETHING SPECTACULAR, BUT A CALM AND PEACEFUL ASSURANCE WITHIN OUR SPIRIT WHICH CAUSES US TO "KNOW THAT WE KNOW THAT WE KNOW"

In the realm of the natural, a lady calls it "woman's intuition". A man will say that "I just knew it was the right thing to do". Psychics will claim to have "weird vibrations", which according to them send out certain signals. I am not talking about any of these. How does the Lord speak to give us directions and confirmations? One of the greatest prophets of all time, Elijah, discovered that God did not speak to him in an earthquake or a fire, but in "a still small voice". It is usually not something spectacular, but a calm and peaceful assurance within our spirit which causes us to "know that we know that we know".

THE MORE WE "PRACTICE LISTENING WITH OUR HUMAN SPIRITS TO GOD'S SPIRIT" THE EASIER IT WILL BE TO "HEAR THE LORD"

It will often "come out of nowhere as an impression". Another way to describe it is as "a nudge" or "an urge" to do something, or say something to a certain person. If we put it out of our minds, ignoring it, trying to forget it, we may have missed the Lord and the message He wanted to share with us. This is why it is so vital to develop a sensitivity to God's Spirit. The more we "practice listening with our human spirits to God's Spirit" the easier it will be to "hear the Lord". And, the more we respond to these impressions, the clearer they will become in the future. Also, the Lord sees that He can entrust us with more, as we have faithfully obeyed the past impressions which He has given us.

YOU WILL HAVE HOPEFULLY LEARNED FROM YOUR PREVIOUS MISTAKES, AND WILL AVOID THESE PITFALLS, AND THIS TIME HAVE A MORE SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME

As we mediate on what comes into our spirit, if it is of God, we will receive a peace which will continue to grow, as the assurance that this is right will increase. The Scripture tells us to "test the spirits to see whether or not they be of God". This is called "the peace test". If you think it is from God, but later it does not work out, do not condemn yourself, but do some personal inventory, and the Lord will show you "where you went off track". By gaining this knowledge, you will have hopefully learned from your previous mistakes, and will avoid these pitfalls, and this time have a more successful outcome.

WHEN YOU FEEL "THE TIMING IS RIGHT", MOVE ON IT

Jesus said that His sheep "know His voice, and will not follow another". Test what you feel in your spirit with the written Word. If it is of God, it will not contradict the Scripture. When you feel "the timing is right", move on it. Somethings God expects us to do immediately, while others are for a future time. If it is not for now, treasure it in your spirit, and it will become stronger and more perfected. I often "test the readiness of the ground to receive" when I speak to others about what the Lord has told me to tell them, but I do not say it is from God. If they are ready to receive it, and recognize it as from God, it will work. If not, then the seed has been sown, but the person was not alert enough spiritually to receive it at that time. Then I just leave it with the Lord, as I have been obedient. The Lord is still speaking to His people today. What is He talking to you about?

SALVATION

"Are We
Sinners Saved by Grace
or
Called to be Saints?"

" . . . Beloved of God, CALLED (invited by the gospel; divinely appointed) TO BE SAINTS (holy ones) . . . " Romans 1:7b KJV (Capitals are mine for emphasis)

THE PROBLEM WITH THIS KIND OF STATEMENT IS THAT IT INDICATES THAT IN GOD'S EYES WE ARE STILL SINNERS

The truth on this matter is so clear in Scripture that it is amazing to find out how many are misinformed and confused on the subject. Sincere, but innocently ignorant believers will stand up and testify, thinking that they are being humble and spiritual, "I am just a sinner saved by grace". They feel that they are glorifying the Lord with this declaration, when in reality, they are diminishing the elevating power of His grace. Yes, we were--past tense--sinners, and it is true that by His grace alone, without good works of our own, we were saved. But, the problem with this kind of statement is that it indicates that in God's eyes we are still sinners. Nothing could be further from the truth.

WHEN THE FATHER LOOKS AT US, HE DOES NOT SEE US AS SINNERS WITH OUR WEAKNESSES, BUT "HE SEES JESUS", AND "HIS FINISHED WORK OF REDEMPTION IN US"

Upon the receipt of our confession of sin, asking Jesus to be our Savior and Lord, we are "justified", which means that in God's eyes, "it is just as though we had never sinned". God the Father declares that "we are the righteousness of God in Christ". This means that when the Father looks at us, He does not see us as sinners with our weaknesses, but "He sees Jesus", and "His finished work of redemption in us". God does not see "a sinner saved by grace" who is "so unworthy, and a creature who is repulsive and next to nothing". He sees us as part of His family, which is royalty, not some sinner who has been improved upon by His grace. Jesus did not come to fix us, but to make us brand new.

THIS CALL IS GIVEN WHILE WE ARE STILL ALIVE AND HERE ON EARTH

Religious people have been taught that certain holy people who have been confirmed to have performed at least one miracle during their lifetime, after an intensive investigation by the church, and 100 years after their death--with some notable exceptions--can become candidates for sainthood. No where in the Word of God is this taught. Instead, we have been "called"--invited by the gospel and divinely appointed--to be saints (holy ones). This call is given while we are still alive and here on Earth. God pronounces us as one of His saints the very moment He accepts us into the body of Christ.

IT IS NOT OUR HOLINESS, BUT HIS HOLINESS WHICH HE IS WORKING IN US, CHANGING OUR CHARACTER TO BE CONFORMED INTO HIS LIKENESS

Tell me, where in the Bible does it say that our position in Christ is known as "sinners saved by grace"? No, we are appointed to be "saints". It is not our holiness, but His holiness which He is working in us, changing our character to be conformed into His likeness. The Apostle Paul says that he was "the chiefest of sinners" before his conversion, but he certainly was not that after his experience of salvation. Repeatedly in the epistles those of us in the church without any special titles or designation are referred to as "saints".

IT IS NOT BECAUSE OF WHO WE ARE, BUT IT IS BECAUSE OF WHO HE IS

It is not my intention to offend anyone, but we do not have to wait for a famous artist to paint an oil portrait, with a halo around our head in order to be known as a saint. This does not mean that we in ourselves are "holy". It is the impartation of the holiness of Christ into our spirits which causes Him to issue His calling to be saints. It is not because of who we are, but it is because of Who He is. This is recognition of what true grace is all about.