Recently we've had the opportunity to hear about 7 different ministers share and speak. We've noticed that not all of the ministers carried the same authority or the same style of ministering.
I'm really writing this for my own purpose that in the future when I look back I will remember this experience.
Each of the Ministers walked in their calling and spoke with true love of God, but we did notice that some had a higher level of authority and we believe that it was developed through prayer and time of walking out their calling.
The main thing we believe is that the more time spent in prayer and time alone with God, the greater the understanding of the power of God that is within them and ....for lack of a better word, 'authority" that they walked in.
Showing posts with label Prayer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prayer. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
Friday, August 16, 2019
Prayer, Lane
We went to the House of Hope and Healing today, asking for prayers for our finances. The House of Hope and Healing has a wonderful atmosphere of serenity. The house was built only for prayer and has never been used for any other purpose. It is anointed and dedicated to God's use for prayer. A woman named Monica and Phylis were the prayer warriors that prayed for us, first for our finances and also for my health and energy. She prayed for unity for Lane and myself, for God to pour into us all of the things we need, for favor in Lane's work area, for us to dig our heels in and push through as we came to be part of the church. The prayer was very encouraging and uplifting. Lane had come home from work and was discouraged because they told him he had to cut his hair and whiskers, this was what he needed.
**Update: Lane didn't have to cut his hair or whiskers! The supervisor that had been visiting the restaurant came another time and observed Lane working. The customers were all pleased with Lane's service and the supervisor relented and shook his hand and told him that he would be fine.
**Update: Lane didn't have to cut his hair or whiskers! The supervisor that had been visiting the restaurant came another time and observed Lane working. The customers were all pleased with Lane's service and the supervisor relented and shook his hand and told him that he would be fine.
Sunday, August 5, 2018
Crazy Days in Ponca City
This morning the Lord woke me with thoughts about the weekend's ministry.
The first thought was that what was accomplished was not seen with human eye, yes, we saw people's faces, heard their needs, prayed for them and watched them accept cold bottles of water, but the Kingdom of the Lord moved forward! His Kingdom moved into the everyday world that we have not claimed for a few years. His Kingdom moved out from behind the walls that have shut us off from the people that need Him, His love and His power and need our witness, we let our friends and neighbors see that God's people are happy, smiling, caring, people!
The enemy has been trying to portray the Kingdom as a sour bunch of people that want to judge and condemn others, but this weekend those people were encouraged to see loving, smiling people that wanted to comfort and encourage them! They saw people that know the answer to their problems and were willing to usher them into the very presence of the King that is able to touch and change lives!
The Second thought that has come back to me over and over was the police force that was represented there, so many young people in uniforms standing between the average citizen and the dangers that are not often heard about because those officers are in those uniforms doing their jobs! We told them "Thank you for doing such a wonderful job! Come, get some water anytime!" They did appear surprised!
We were able to be an encouragement to them at a time when they also are under attack, they needed to see the connection they have to the Justice that is part of the Lord's Kingdom and the support that we, His body can offer to them. This weekend they did see our support!
One of the Officers in charge was offered prayer as he received water, and at first didn't believe he needed any prayer but when it was suggested that we could pray for safety for him and his people he gladly accepted it! As the prayer was spoken and finished the Officer was deeply touched, in his own words he was "left speechless"! How often do you think he has heard himself and his crew lifted in prayer? They need to know that God's Kingdom is a living group of people that are covering them in prayer!
Okay, the Third thought, the heavenlies were touched by the sweat, the work and the pain of the workers this weekend, do not be deceived into believing that only what can be seen in the flesh was accomplished. There were warring angels in the unseen realm that were at work also, I'm sure that the whole heavenly atmosphere in the Kay County area was affected by the efforts of the people involved in this activity!
Yes, this work was represented by the people on the street handing out water and praying, and they are mighty and powerful warriors in the Kingdom because take my word for it, that heat took a lot of endurance! But there were people that donated water, ice, ice chests and encouraged behind the scenes! This was a work that took the effort of many and that is how the body does and will work, the Kingdom is built by many, seen and unseen!
There are a lot of testimonies of the people that were touched and encouraged by the efforts of this ministry, but those are the stories for others to share, my purpose here is to help us realize that there was much more accomplished than we will be aware of this side of heaven! This was our "2 mites" by which the Lord will bless this area!
Yes, we give all glory to the Lord, but this weekend the Lord was well pleased with His faithful servants!
The first thought was that what was accomplished was not seen with human eye, yes, we saw people's faces, heard their needs, prayed for them and watched them accept cold bottles of water, but the Kingdom of the Lord moved forward! His Kingdom moved into the everyday world that we have not claimed for a few years. His Kingdom moved out from behind the walls that have shut us off from the people that need Him, His love and His power and need our witness, we let our friends and neighbors see that God's people are happy, smiling, caring, people!
The enemy has been trying to portray the Kingdom as a sour bunch of people that want to judge and condemn others, but this weekend those people were encouraged to see loving, smiling people that wanted to comfort and encourage them! They saw people that know the answer to their problems and were willing to usher them into the very presence of the King that is able to touch and change lives!
The Second thought that has come back to me over and over was the police force that was represented there, so many young people in uniforms standing between the average citizen and the dangers that are not often heard about because those officers are in those uniforms doing their jobs! We told them "Thank you for doing such a wonderful job! Come, get some water anytime!" They did appear surprised!
We were able to be an encouragement to them at a time when they also are under attack, they needed to see the connection they have to the Justice that is part of the Lord's Kingdom and the support that we, His body can offer to them. This weekend they did see our support!
One of the Officers in charge was offered prayer as he received water, and at first didn't believe he needed any prayer but when it was suggested that we could pray for safety for him and his people he gladly accepted it! As the prayer was spoken and finished the Officer was deeply touched, in his own words he was "left speechless"! How often do you think he has heard himself and his crew lifted in prayer? They need to know that God's Kingdom is a living group of people that are covering them in prayer!
Okay, the Third thought, the heavenlies were touched by the sweat, the work and the pain of the workers this weekend, do not be deceived into believing that only what can be seen in the flesh was accomplished. There were warring angels in the unseen realm that were at work also, I'm sure that the whole heavenly atmosphere in the Kay County area was affected by the efforts of the people involved in this activity!
Yes, this work was represented by the people on the street handing out water and praying, and they are mighty and powerful warriors in the Kingdom because take my word for it, that heat took a lot of endurance! But there were people that donated water, ice, ice chests and encouraged behind the scenes! This was a work that took the effort of many and that is how the body does and will work, the Kingdom is built by many, seen and unseen!
There are a lot of testimonies of the people that were touched and encouraged by the efforts of this ministry, but those are the stories for others to share, my purpose here is to help us realize that there was much more accomplished than we will be aware of this side of heaven! This was our "2 mites" by which the Lord will bless this area!
Yes, we give all glory to the Lord, but this weekend the Lord was well pleased with His faithful servants!
Thursday, November 2, 2017
How Do You Respond?
Good day to you Mighty Warrior of the One True King!
We do well to remember that the greatest response, no matter what is going on in life, is to be praying and offer up worship! It will cause doors to be opened and chains to be loosed, for you and for those who are around you.
- created by Lane Mercer (twoarrowsministries@gmail.com to schedule for ministry to your group)
We do well to remember that the greatest response, no matter what is going on in life, is to be praying and offer up worship! It will cause doors to be opened and chains to be loosed, for you and for those who are around you.
When they had struck them with many blows, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to guard them securely; and he, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; suddenly there came a great earthquake so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. - Acts 16:23-26
Is it easy? Nope! Is it worth it? Yes! There are so many things that we can pray and sing about. The following is not an all-inclusive list however it is a great starting place: the goodness of God; His incredible faithfulness; the amazing love of Jesus; the power of the blood; the same Spirit that raised Christ up from the dead is indwelt within us and we can boldly access the throne of grace.
Take stock of your life right now - what areas can you see that in the midst of whatever is going on that I will choose to pray and sing praise to the one true King? You might be in stocks like Paul and Silas were, or you might be in a place where it seems that everything is out of control in your world. What a great time to get doors open in your life and have chains be loosened - for you and whomever else is in your surroundings! You might be on the opposite side of life and you are successful, and you have no idea about hard times. What a great time to keep doors open in your life and stay chain free - for you and whomever else in your surroundings!
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| Photo Credit |
What a great testament to who the Lord is in your life that you go after Him during the good, bad and just plain ugly!
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
It Is Not About Us
Good day to you Mighty Warrior of the One True King!
It is one of the greatest litmus test for your life and/or your ministry: where are you directing your focus? We do well to remember that the example left by one of the "greatest men who ever lived" (spoken by Jesus about John the Baptist, Matthew 11:11) is to get people to realize that it is not about us - it is all about Him, the King of Kings!
John spoke "Behold, the Lamb of God!". When you dig down and study the word "behold" it means "Don't miss this! It is an observable, objective fact!" This understanding now stresses that whatever follows the use of the word "behold" is to say that if you hear and/or get nothing else that I say - hear this. I can almost see it as one grabbing you by the shoulders and shaking you in a way to gain all of your attention. So what is the message that is being conveyed here?
Again the next day John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as He walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. - John 1:35-37
This is my prayer and I encourage it for you as well - may the message we bring and the words we speak cause others to follow Jesus all the way to the heart of the Father!
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| Photo Credit |
No matter what issue, circumstance, situation, event, occasion, argument, concern, controversy, matter, problem, question, subject or topic remember this: Behold the Lamb of God and follow Jesus!
- created by Lane Mercer (twoarrowsministries@gmail.com to schedule for ministry to your group)
Thursday, May 18, 2017
Come Up Here!
Visualize this with me for a moment, we go to church, we praise God and lift our hearts, spirit, and soul to focus on Him, we hear the Pastor bring words of encouragement, teaching, and growth for us to hear and learn from. Then there is a moment after all of this when God has provided a banquet in the front of the sanctuary for our pleasure, for our health and well-being, for our nutrition, for our elevation to a higher level in Him when the speaker invites people to come for prayer....but 90% of the people politely reject His offer of ministry and gather their things and walk out....what is up with that!?
This can't be said of every church, I'm pretty sure....but many churches every Sunday, or maybe Wednesday, but sometime during the week, they have an opportunity for people to go up front and be prayed for.
I see this as a time when God is wanting to minister to His people, but the part I don't understand is why so few people take advantage of it? It's like people don't want more of God? or are they only afraid of what others will think of them for going up front for prayer?
Are we so afraid of man or what he might think that we turn our back on the special time that God is wanting to meet with us at the end of a service? Or are we in such a rush to get to our food (lunch) that we can't be bothered to be prayed for?
Do we not realize the "slime" we gather as we walk through the world daily and weekly that could be cleaned off of us at that prayer time. Do we not realize how we could be prepared for the battles we will be facing in the week ahead if we went and enjoyed the banquet the Lord has placed before us at prayer time every week? Do we really believe we don't need prayer? Do we really want to choose to walk through the battle without the extra strength, wisdom, and guidance that our Heavenly Father would provide if we met Him at the front of the church at prayer time?
I know we are able to pray by ourselves and receive each of the things listed above, but there is a special power in the prayer of the leadership that is over you. And there are times that you need an extra boost in your prayers. And there is a special blessing in the humility that you exhibit in wanting prayer from those over you. I'm sure you understand the concept that parents have a strength in their prayers for their children that others don't have, it is the same concept that the Pastor and the prayer warriors in your church have strength in prayer over you!
Come on up people, be hungry and not proud! ! Come up front, come meet your Heavenly Father! come receive prayer and be made whole, be made stronger, be de-slimed, be lifted to a higher level! Receive wisdom, receive guidance, receive health.
After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things.” Revelation 4:1
This can't be said of every church, I'm pretty sure....but many churches every Sunday, or maybe Wednesday, but sometime during the week, they have an opportunity for people to go up front and be prayed for.
I see this as a time when God is wanting to minister to His people, but the part I don't understand is why so few people take advantage of it? It's like people don't want more of God? or are they only afraid of what others will think of them for going up front for prayer?
Are we so afraid of man or what he might think that we turn our back on the special time that God is wanting to meet with us at the end of a service? Or are we in such a rush to get to our food (lunch) that we can't be bothered to be prayed for?
Do we not realize the "slime" we gather as we walk through the world daily and weekly that could be cleaned off of us at that prayer time. Do we not realize how we could be prepared for the battles we will be facing in the week ahead if we went and enjoyed the banquet the Lord has placed before us at prayer time every week? Do we really believe we don't need prayer? Do we really want to choose to walk through the battle without the extra strength, wisdom, and guidance that our Heavenly Father would provide if we met Him at the front of the church at prayer time?
I know we are able to pray by ourselves and receive each of the things listed above, but there is a special power in the prayer of the leadership that is over you. And there are times that you need an extra boost in your prayers. And there is a special blessing in the humility that you exhibit in wanting prayer from those over you. I'm sure you understand the concept that parents have a strength in their prayers for their children that others don't have, it is the same concept that the Pastor and the prayer warriors in your church have strength in prayer over you!
Come on up people, be hungry and not proud! ! Come up front, come meet your Heavenly Father! come receive prayer and be made whole, be made stronger, be de-slimed, be lifted to a higher level! Receive wisdom, receive guidance, receive health.
After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things.” Revelation 4:1
And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here.”
Revelation 11:12a
Monday, October 31, 2016
When Are We Supposed to Be Holy?
Holiness~
As a follower of Christ and child of God, what areas am I to live in holiness?
In my church life? Yes! in my Family life? Yes! In my work life? Yes! now it gets tricky....in my social life? Yes! In my world of earning and spending? Yes! In my speech and thoughts? Yes! In my times of entertainment? Yes! You mean when I'm watching a movie? or reading a book? or talking to friends? driving to work, shopping for groceries? listening to the news? ...so then at what point am I able to stop being holy and living a holy life? This is beginning to sound like never! Not even briefly?!
I think that's what this scripture is saying ~ Therefore, my dear friends, since we have these promises let us purify ourselves from everything that defile either body or spirit, and strive to be completely holy, out of reverence for God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
My husband always tells me that when you read "therefore" in scripture you're supposed to pay attention what the "therefore" is there for! In this case it is telling us in 2 Corinthians 6 that God has heard our prayers, that we are not to let the grace of God be for nothing. It tells us that we are not the same as those who do not believe in God's salvation and have not prayed to Him and we are not to live as unbelievers do! And more! It tells us that God "will live with us and walk with us"!
Ok then! That's why we're to be "Holy" in every area of our lives! We have a Holy God living with us! Does that boggle your mind? If you haven't stopped to think about it before it might! Every second of your day He is there! He hears everything you say and even think! He hears what you talk about with your friends, He sees what you watch on TV, He rides is in your car with you as you drive...instead of spending time complaining about other drivers, take time to talk to Him! Just talk to Him! He is a parent longing for His children to confide in Him, to bring their needs, their wants, their hurts to Him...but like a good parent, He waits for us to make the first move... Well that was a little rabbit trail from trying to understand why we're to walk and live in holiness...
Pretty much we've covered it, we are to be Holy in every area of our beings, our minds, bodies and spirits...in our thoughts, words and actions...with all people we encounter, family, friends, coworkers, fellow believers and non believers because our Father is Holy and lives with us 24/7 and we as believers are now His children.
And in case someone was wondering...the definition of holiness is "the quality or state of being holy" and now we have to look at the definition of holy, "set apart for God's purpose".
As a follower of Christ and child of God, what areas am I to live in holiness?
In my church life? Yes! in my Family life? Yes! In my work life? Yes! now it gets tricky....in my social life? Yes! In my world of earning and spending? Yes! In my speech and thoughts? Yes! In my times of entertainment? Yes! You mean when I'm watching a movie? or reading a book? or talking to friends? driving to work, shopping for groceries? listening to the news? ...so then at what point am I able to stop being holy and living a holy life? This is beginning to sound like never! Not even briefly?!
I think that's what this scripture is saying ~ Therefore, my dear friends, since we have these promises let us purify ourselves from everything that defile either body or spirit, and strive to be completely holy, out of reverence for God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
My husband always tells me that when you read "therefore" in scripture you're supposed to pay attention what the "therefore" is there for! In this case it is telling us in 2 Corinthians 6 that God has heard our prayers, that we are not to let the grace of God be for nothing. It tells us that we are not the same as those who do not believe in God's salvation and have not prayed to Him and we are not to live as unbelievers do! And more! It tells us that God "will live with us and walk with us"!
Ok then! That's why we're to be "Holy" in every area of our lives! We have a Holy God living with us! Does that boggle your mind? If you haven't stopped to think about it before it might! Every second of your day He is there! He hears everything you say and even think! He hears what you talk about with your friends, He sees what you watch on TV, He rides is in your car with you as you drive...instead of spending time complaining about other drivers, take time to talk to Him! Just talk to Him! He is a parent longing for His children to confide in Him, to bring their needs, their wants, their hurts to Him...but like a good parent, He waits for us to make the first move... Well that was a little rabbit trail from trying to understand why we're to walk and live in holiness...
Pretty much we've covered it, we are to be Holy in every area of our beings, our minds, bodies and spirits...in our thoughts, words and actions...with all people we encounter, family, friends, coworkers, fellow believers and non believers because our Father is Holy and lives with us 24/7 and we as believers are now His children.
And in case someone was wondering...the definition of holiness is "the quality or state of being holy" and now we have to look at the definition of holy, "set apart for God's purpose".
Friday, April 8, 2016
Bumps in Your Life?
Many years ago, when I still read articles about improving my life, I read an article about getting rid of the rough edges that bump us throughout the day. The idea is that life is too short to go through your day tolerating things that really irritate you or upset your day.
With that idea I implemented some things they suggested, like making up your bed so your bedroom can have a semblance of order for the rest of the day. I know that doesn't sound major but over a lot of years you do realize that there is a calm in your bedroom just because the bed is made, it has some "order" to it. Of course once that habit is in place some other things fall into place in a normal progression. Taking care of your laundry, your clothing and on and on.
The point of this article is not about improving your bedroom, but it is about improving your life! If life is bumping you around, maybe you need to get some basic things in place to make it an easier world, to have some order?
Let's start with a natural assumption that if you're reading this you're probably a Christian, or at least interested in the Christian path, since the title for the blog is "Following His Path". So with that assumption in place we can move on!
The first bump to remove from your daily path is trying to have your own way, as long as you are living for yourself you are going to have a lot of bumps in your day. Try turning to your Heavenly Father and going His way, living His will! Like it says in Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.
The next bump is the neglect of conversation with your Heavenly Father, how are you going to know His path for you if You neglect Him or His word? Be sure to read His scripture, hide it in your heart and pray, talk to Him without ceasing. Psalm 119:11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.
Another bump is lack of forgiveness, do you hold anything against anyone? If you harbor unforgiveness then you are going to receive a lot of jolts. Let's go ahead and add not being thankful, if we are not thankful for what God is doing for us, in us and through us then we are going to have a very ugly outlook on life and it will bump us without ceasing! 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
I can't promise a "bump-proof" life, but if you can put these basics into place in your path then things will be much smoother for you, and each day will be easier and more joyful to walk through!
With that idea I implemented some things they suggested, like making up your bed so your bedroom can have a semblance of order for the rest of the day. I know that doesn't sound major but over a lot of years you do realize that there is a calm in your bedroom just because the bed is made, it has some "order" to it. Of course once that habit is in place some other things fall into place in a normal progression. Taking care of your laundry, your clothing and on and on.
The point of this article is not about improving your bedroom, but it is about improving your life! If life is bumping you around, maybe you need to get some basic things in place to make it an easier world, to have some order?
Let's start with a natural assumption that if you're reading this you're probably a Christian, or at least interested in the Christian path, since the title for the blog is "Following His Path". So with that assumption in place we can move on!
The first bump to remove from your daily path is trying to have your own way, as long as you are living for yourself you are going to have a lot of bumps in your day. Try turning to your Heavenly Father and going His way, living His will! Like it says in Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.
The next bump is the neglect of conversation with your Heavenly Father, how are you going to know His path for you if You neglect Him or His word? Be sure to read His scripture, hide it in your heart and pray, talk to Him without ceasing. Psalm 119:11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.
Another bump is lack of forgiveness, do you hold anything against anyone? If you harbor unforgiveness then you are going to receive a lot of jolts. Let's go ahead and add not being thankful, if we are not thankful for what God is doing for us, in us and through us then we are going to have a very ugly outlook on life and it will bump us without ceasing! 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
I can't promise a "bump-proof" life, but if you can put these basics into place in your path then things will be much smoother for you, and each day will be easier and more joyful to walk through!
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Be The Chosen!
** This blog is such a burden on my heart that I have written and rewritten it to try to get the message in a way that everyone will read and apply!
You Probably Remember a time when people were being chosen and you might not have been the first? Maybe it was in gym class when they were choosing teams? Or maybe it was at a dance when they were choosing someone to dance with? Surely we all share the experience of being the one that was not chosen first...and maybe not second?
This brings us to a thought-line that I'd like to drop into your thinking~ I've often considered the verse "For many are called, but few are chosen" Matthew 22:14, and I've been bothered by the idea that in God's word there is an area for people to not be chosen! I don't want to not be chosen! And this is a way bigger deal than a game in gym class or a school dance! I have set myself to do what I need to do to be chosen!
This brings us to a thought-line that I'd like to drop into your thinking~ I've often considered the verse "For many are called, but few are chosen" Matthew 22:14, and I've been bothered by the idea that in God's word there is an area for people to not be chosen! I don't want to not be chosen! And this is a way bigger deal than a game in gym class or a school dance! I have set myself to do what I need to do to be chosen!
We are all called/invited but we will not all be chosen! Doesn't that stir discomfort in you? I am not trying to cause fear, but awareness! We can not be complacent in our walk with God, we need to strive!
If we were going to a dance, we'd be looking our best right?! You know we'd make every effort to be one that was chosen! If we were competing in a sports we'd be working out, practicing, training! Now I'm encouraging you to make every effort to be one of the few that is chosen!(Matthew 22:14)
I want to point you to Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, that speak about not taking a life of ease, but to keep pushing ourselves to win the race! He says he treats his body hard and makes it his slave! How many of us have pushed ourselves to that point?
I want to point you to Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, that speak about not taking a life of ease, but to keep pushing ourselves to win the race! He says he treats his body hard and makes it his slave! How many of us have pushed ourselves to that point?
If you are like me you need to start pushing your body, do you feel more like a slave to it than it is to you? Do you feed it when it wants you to? let it rest when it wants to?...do you pretty much give your body what it wants? But according to Paul's words that kind of behavior could cost us a lot! It could make you lose the race that you so want to win!
So, I urge you to start training to win your race! dig into your Bible, read it, study it, spend time in prayer, not the "asking" kind of prayer, but the "praising, thanking" kind! Put a good praise song on and listen to the words, let them become the song of your heart! Do all you can to keep your thoughts focused on the pursuit of winning your "heavenly race"!
Beloved, we all want to be chosen, we all want to win...don't be a slave to your own will or your own body but push yourself, you can win! Follow the Holy Spirit, He is a great Trainer who will get you in shape to be the chosen! Holy Spirit, please come work on us and in us, to prepare us!
"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14
"For many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:14
You know that in a race all the runners run but only one gets the prize. So run to win! All those who compete in the games use self-control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed. So I do not run without a goal. I fight like a boxer who is hitting something--not just the air. I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I have preached to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NCV (The Amplified version is really good for these verses also!)
Beloved, we all want to be chosen, we all want to win...don't be a slave to your own will or your own body but push yourself, you can win! Follow the Holy Spirit, He is a great Trainer who will get you in shape to be the chosen! Holy Spirit, please come work on us and in us, to prepare us!
"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14
"For many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:14
You know that in a race all the runners run but only one gets the prize. So run to win! All those who compete in the games use self-control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed. So I do not run without a goal. I fight like a boxer who is hitting something--not just the air. I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I have preached to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NCV (The Amplified version is really good for these verses also!)
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Chosen?
You Probably Remember a time when people were being chosen and you might not have been the first? Maybe it was in gym class when they were choosing teams? Or maybe it was at a dance when they were choosing someone to dance with? Surely we all share the experience of being the one that was not chosen first...and maybe not second? I can tell you as a girl that wore glasses and was new to a school I was not the first chosen or any of the ones chosen until the very last.
As a girl you are often over looked by team captains that are trying to choose the strongest and fastest! And as a girl wearing glasses you are also overlooked when a guy is looking for the "hottest" girl to dance with. But it's okay, don't think it's a sad thing...at the time it was hard and it did feel sad, but that was a long time ago and I've received other character qualities that have balanced out any negative emotions I went through in the physical area and I even bloomed into a time of "hotness"!. =D
But by those experiences some wisdom developed in the understanding of human nature that has helped through life! People are often shallow, they take a great deal of things on face value...totally ignoring the old saying, "Don't judge a book by it's cover".
This brings us back to a different thought line though~ I've often thought about the verse Matthew 22:14 "For many are called, but few are chosen", and I've been bothered by the idea that in God's word there is even an area for people to not be chosen! I don't want to go through that feeling again! I don't want to not be chosen! And this is a way bigger deal than a gym class game or a school dance! I have set myself to do what I need to do to be chosen!
We are all called/invited but we will not all be chosen! Doesn't that stir discomfort in you? I am not trying to cause fear, but awareness! We can not be complacent in our walk with God. We need to strive, if we were going to a dance, we'd be looking our best right?! You know we'd make every effort to be one that was chosen! Now I'm encouraging you to make every effort to be one of the few that is chosen in Matthew 22:14!
I want to point you to Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9, that speak about not taking a life of ease, but to keep pushing ourselves to win the race! He says he treats his body hard and makes it his slave! How many of us have pushed ourselves to that point? Right now I need to start pushing my body, it feels more like I'm a slave to it than it is to me! I feed it when it wants me to, I let it rest when it wants to...I pretty much give my body what it wants! But according to Paul's words that kind of behaviour could cost me a lot! It could make me lose the race that I so long want to win! So, I urge you to start training to win your race! dig into your Bible, read it, study it, spend time in prayer, not the asking kind of prayer, but the praising, thanking kind! Put a good praise song on and listen to the words, let them become a song in your heart!
Beloved, we all want to be chosen, don't be a slave to your will, but push yourself! Follow the Holy Spirit, He is a great Trainer Who will get you in shape to be chosen!
"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14
"For many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:14
You know that in a race all the runners run but only one gets the prize. So run to win! All those who compete in the games use self-control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed. So I do not run without a goal. I fight like a boxer who is hitting something--not just the air. I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I have preached to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NCV (The Amplified version is really good for these verses also!)
As a girl you are often over looked by team captains that are trying to choose the strongest and fastest! And as a girl wearing glasses you are also overlooked when a guy is looking for the "hottest" girl to dance with. But it's okay, don't think it's a sad thing...at the time it was hard and it did feel sad, but that was a long time ago and I've received other character qualities that have balanced out any negative emotions I went through in the physical area and I even bloomed into a time of "hotness"!. =D
But by those experiences some wisdom developed in the understanding of human nature that has helped through life! People are often shallow, they take a great deal of things on face value...totally ignoring the old saying, "Don't judge a book by it's cover".
This brings us back to a different thought line though~ I've often thought about the verse Matthew 22:14 "For many are called, but few are chosen", and I've been bothered by the idea that in God's word there is even an area for people to not be chosen! I don't want to go through that feeling again! I don't want to not be chosen! And this is a way bigger deal than a gym class game or a school dance! I have set myself to do what I need to do to be chosen!
We are all called/invited but we will not all be chosen! Doesn't that stir discomfort in you? I am not trying to cause fear, but awareness! We can not be complacent in our walk with God. We need to strive, if we were going to a dance, we'd be looking our best right?! You know we'd make every effort to be one that was chosen! Now I'm encouraging you to make every effort to be one of the few that is chosen in Matthew 22:14!
I want to point you to Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 9, that speak about not taking a life of ease, but to keep pushing ourselves to win the race! He says he treats his body hard and makes it his slave! How many of us have pushed ourselves to that point? Right now I need to start pushing my body, it feels more like I'm a slave to it than it is to me! I feed it when it wants me to, I let it rest when it wants to...I pretty much give my body what it wants! But according to Paul's words that kind of behaviour could cost me a lot! It could make me lose the race that I so long want to win! So, I urge you to start training to win your race! dig into your Bible, read it, study it, spend time in prayer, not the asking kind of prayer, but the praising, thanking kind! Put a good praise song on and listen to the words, let them become a song in your heart!
Beloved, we all want to be chosen, don't be a slave to your will, but push yourself! Follow the Holy Spirit, He is a great Trainer Who will get you in shape to be chosen!
"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14
"For many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:14
You know that in a race all the runners run but only one gets the prize. So run to win! All those who compete in the games use self-control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed. So I do not run without a goal. I fight like a boxer who is hitting something--not just the air. I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I have preached to others. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NCV (The Amplified version is really good for these verses also!)
Thursday, May 7, 2015
What Does Revival Look Like?
We pray for "Revival", we want Revival, we cry out for Revival....are we ready for Revival? A few weeks ago I asked if we really want "Revival", now I'm going to ask another question. Are you ready for it?
Do you think a Spirit of Revival being poured out into our lives, our church, our city, our nation would change our lives? How do you think it would change it? What do you think Revival looks like?
If you don't like going to church often you may not like Revival? If you don't like prayer, you may not like Revival, if you don't enjoy praise, ...you probably won't like Revival!
Revival is about God, it's His people living completely for Him and His purpose. Are you ready to do that?
Do you think a Spirit of Revival being poured out into our lives, our church, our city, our nation would change our lives? How do you think it would change it? What do you think Revival looks like?
If you don't like going to church often you may not like Revival? If you don't like prayer, you may not like Revival, if you don't enjoy praise, ...you probably won't like Revival!
Revival is about God, it's His people living completely for Him and His purpose. Are you ready to do that?
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Which Path Do You Choose?
This morning is an early one! I have been quiet for awhile in writing because God has been quiet with me, but now I am awake and I've been give a couple of questions to ponder and to expand on.
The first question is have you ever prayed against your own self will to the point of sweating blood? I can honestly tell you that I have not! In this context I am very self satisfying, I deny myself very little that I want!
Yet my Saviour did deny His own will and prayed for help to do it! And at the same time He told His disciples to pray for themselves. I had always thought He was asking for them to pray for Him in His struggle. but in Luke 22:40 Jesus told them to pray for themselves for strength against temptation.
I am being transparent, that's a new buzz word in the Christian world that means "honest" about my own life, so I'm being transparent or honest with you in telling you that I sometimes forget to pray for strength against temptation!
I do daily pray Jesus' blood as protection and put on the Spiritual Warfare Armor, but I do need to remember to pray to not enter into temptation and for the strength to deny it if I chance to encounter it, and odds are that I will encounter temptation. Our society is full of temptations and we need to actively prepare ourselves for those daily encounters.
When we do encounter temptation, do we fight it? Do you remember that old saying "the devil made me do it"? People would say that and laugh like that should remove their guilt in something that they chose to do. Come to think of it, that's even what Eve said in the garden, it didn't remove her guilt and they still got kicked out of the garden!
On the other hand, when faced with a situation that He could have side stepped because His own will might have led to a different path, Jesus followed through with His Heavenly Father's will. He struggled with it, He prayed His way through it...even sweating drops of blood! Have you ever struggled with temptation to the point of sweating drops of blood? I unfortunately have not. I have given in to my own will and let myself make some very bad choices.
Now I purpose to set my will to live God's will, even when tempted to take the easy path, I do purpose to follow the path that may lead to prayers of sweating blood, do you join me? If it was the path that my Saviour took then it is the path for me.
The first question is have you ever prayed against your own self will to the point of sweating blood? I can honestly tell you that I have not! In this context I am very self satisfying, I deny myself very little that I want!
Yet my Saviour did deny His own will and prayed for help to do it! And at the same time He told His disciples to pray for themselves. I had always thought He was asking for them to pray for Him in His struggle. but in Luke 22:40 Jesus told them to pray for themselves for strength against temptation.
I am being transparent, that's a new buzz word in the Christian world that means "honest" about my own life, so I'm being transparent or honest with you in telling you that I sometimes forget to pray for strength against temptation!
I do daily pray Jesus' blood as protection and put on the Spiritual Warfare Armor, but I do need to remember to pray to not enter into temptation and for the strength to deny it if I chance to encounter it, and odds are that I will encounter temptation. Our society is full of temptations and we need to actively prepare ourselves for those daily encounters.
When we do encounter temptation, do we fight it? Do you remember that old saying "the devil made me do it"? People would say that and laugh like that should remove their guilt in something that they chose to do. Come to think of it, that's even what Eve said in the garden, it didn't remove her guilt and they still got kicked out of the garden!
On the other hand, when faced with a situation that He could have side stepped because His own will might have led to a different path, Jesus followed through with His Heavenly Father's will. He struggled with it, He prayed His way through it...even sweating drops of blood! Have you ever struggled with temptation to the point of sweating drops of blood? I unfortunately have not. I have given in to my own will and let myself make some very bad choices.
Now I purpose to set my will to live God's will, even when tempted to take the easy path, I do purpose to follow the path that may lead to prayers of sweating blood, do you join me? If it was the path that my Saviour took then it is the path for me.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Just?
Just~
I've been noticing a tendency in Christian prayer lately, the tendency is to use the word "just". I wonder when or why we feel the need to ask God to "just" give us this, or "just" do that, as if God is limited in what He might want to give or might want to do? Or maybe it's a burden for Him to answer our prayers? We ask Him, Lord, please just do this today for me and I won't bother You with anything else.
Our God is beyond limits, our God created all things, He holds the universe in His hands, He made us of dirt with His own hands! He knows how many hairs are on our head! He knows our words before we speak...He wants to do things for us!
Imagine your children coming to you and asking if they could "just play outside for 15 minutes". Wouldn't it sound like you were expected to refuse their request and they're trying to bargain with you for "just" 15 minutes?
To pray and ask Him to "just" give us, or "just" do anything is like the orphan child asking for just a little more soup.
Do we really want to dishonor God in this way? To speak to Him as if it's beyond His generous nature to give, or beyond His ability to do? Our God is generous and nothing is beyond Him, we don't have to creep close and beg, Father, would You just give me a worn out pair of shoes to keep my feet warm today?
Our Father is a loving God, it pleases Him to provide for us and protect us as it does for any parent to give to and take care of their child.
Please, I challenge you to quit using a limiting word like "just" when you speak to the great Creator, the Alpha and Omega, the Potter, our loving Heavenly Father. Use words that honor Him and show your trust in Him.
I've been noticing a tendency in Christian prayer lately, the tendency is to use the word "just". I wonder when or why we feel the need to ask God to "just" give us this, or "just" do that, as if God is limited in what He might want to give or might want to do? Or maybe it's a burden for Him to answer our prayers? We ask Him, Lord, please just do this today for me and I won't bother You with anything else.
Our God is beyond limits, our God created all things, He holds the universe in His hands, He made us of dirt with His own hands! He knows how many hairs are on our head! He knows our words before we speak...He wants to do things for us!
Imagine your children coming to you and asking if they could "just play outside for 15 minutes". Wouldn't it sound like you were expected to refuse their request and they're trying to bargain with you for "just" 15 minutes?
To pray and ask Him to "just" give us, or "just" do anything is like the orphan child asking for just a little more soup.
Do we really want to dishonor God in this way? To speak to Him as if it's beyond His generous nature to give, or beyond His ability to do? Our God is generous and nothing is beyond Him, we don't have to creep close and beg, Father, would You just give me a worn out pair of shoes to keep my feet warm today?
Our Father is a loving God, it pleases Him to provide for us and protect us as it does for any parent to give to and take care of their child.
Please, I challenge you to quit using a limiting word like "just" when you speak to the great Creator, the Alpha and Omega, the Potter, our loving Heavenly Father. Use words that honor Him and show your trust in Him.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Prayer October 21, 2014
Good morning Lord!
Thank You for today! Thank You for Your word ~ Your promises!
This morning in my study Your word speaks of:
Your creation ~ Genesis
Your power ~ Psalms
Your concern for Your children ~ Matthew
You have given people so much, all that we need! - but we focus on our "wants".
Please forgive us Lord, please open our eyes, our hearts and our spirits; soften our hearts that we hear Your voice, Your call - Let us learn to walk with integrity and righteousness, bringing to You first, pleasure in Your children and second, glory in Your workmanship.-
Let our love and worship please You Father, let it wash away the bitterness of our neglect.
In Jesus name~
Thank You for today! Thank You for Your word ~ Your promises!
This morning in my study Your word speaks of:
Your creation ~ Genesis
Your power ~ Psalms
Your concern for Your children ~ Matthew
You have given people so much, all that we need! - but we focus on our "wants".
Please forgive us Lord, please open our eyes, our hearts and our spirits; soften our hearts that we hear Your voice, Your call - Let us learn to walk with integrity and righteousness, bringing to You first, pleasure in Your children and second, glory in Your workmanship.-
Let our love and worship please You Father, let it wash away the bitterness of our neglect.
In Jesus name~
Monday, March 24, 2014
Questions~
Several things have come together to create this post.
This morning in my study time I had a praise CD by Misty Edwards playing (I almost always have praise music playing, either a CD or the radio or streaming online). The lyrics that stood out to me were "people get ready He's coming".
This last weekend was the Shekinah Glory conference at our church in KC, we weren't able to attend, but we did watch all that was available online. The last days message was that the glory will usher in the return of Jesus.
Our Pastor was teaching that we, as the church, are the Bride that Jesus is returning for. And that as the church we are to be spending this time of waiting to prepare ourselves for His return! We shouldn't be waiting for Him to return and then expect Him to prepare us for heaven, but I believe that many people are waiting for just that.
Many American believers have bought into the idea that there will be a rapture and that everyone that ever said the "sinner's prayer" will be zapped into heaven. But there are several verses that have over the years caused me to worry and now seem to be congealing with the last conference's teachings. There is the parable told of the men that had lived doing things like healing and casting out of evil spirits in Jesus's name, but at the end when they approached Jesus He told them to leave and that He had never known them. What a horrible shock that would be! And there's the parable of the 10 virgins waiting for the bridegroom, 5 have oil and 5 have run out of oil. When the bridegroom shows up the virgins without oil miss it because they had to go back and get the oil! Another horrible shock! All 10 of the virgins were waiting for the same event and believed and had faith, but 5 ran out of oil and missed it.
Is it possible that everyone that has said the sinner's prayer is waiting for the bridegroom? What percent of "sinner prayer" repeaters even know the bridegroom is returning? And how many people know who the Bridegroom is returning for? *Hint, His bride!* Okay, who is His bride? And then who are the virgins that run out of oil? So many questions! (In my life everyone says I'm the person with the most questions and I often find that nobody else has even considered half of the things I have questions about! Even my granddaughter told me that I have "a lot of questions!". (It's rare for a child to tell an adult that! I feel honored!!)).
I have mostly focused on how to live after recognizing that Jesus is the Son of God and Lord of my life, so I have many areas of the future days that I have not spent time studying. I do believe that if I live each day as Jesus wants me to, that He will take care of me and my future. However with all of that said I've recently developed a concern that a lot of people are living in a false sense of security just waiting for that day they get to cash in the "Rapture" ticket. So I'm tackling the part of the message that I've learned so far~
Okay, back to the basics of what I have begun to understand ~ Jesus is the Bridegroom, He has promised to return for His bride, the church is His bride, the church is supposed to be growing more beautiful with it's growth as it waits for the return of the Bridegroom, and the bride should be waiting for the return of her groom with great love and expectation! Now the part that will probably shock a few people~ the church that is the bride is holy, set apart from the sins of the world, it is a corporate body, it should be growing in loveliness. If a person is not living a life dedicated to being the bride are they one of the virgins that runs out of oil? or are they one of the ones that Jesus said "leave Me, I never knew you"? See, more questions to be prayed about~
This morning in my study time I had a praise CD by Misty Edwards playing (I almost always have praise music playing, either a CD or the radio or streaming online). The lyrics that stood out to me were "people get ready He's coming".
This last weekend was the Shekinah Glory conference at our church in KC, we weren't able to attend, but we did watch all that was available online. The last days message was that the glory will usher in the return of Jesus.
Our Pastor was teaching that we, as the church, are the Bride that Jesus is returning for. And that as the church we are to be spending this time of waiting to prepare ourselves for His return! We shouldn't be waiting for Him to return and then expect Him to prepare us for heaven, but I believe that many people are waiting for just that.
Many American believers have bought into the idea that there will be a rapture and that everyone that ever said the "sinner's prayer" will be zapped into heaven. But there are several verses that have over the years caused me to worry and now seem to be congealing with the last conference's teachings. There is the parable told of the men that had lived doing things like healing and casting out of evil spirits in Jesus's name, but at the end when they approached Jesus He told them to leave and that He had never known them. What a horrible shock that would be! And there's the parable of the 10 virgins waiting for the bridegroom, 5 have oil and 5 have run out of oil. When the bridegroom shows up the virgins without oil miss it because they had to go back and get the oil! Another horrible shock! All 10 of the virgins were waiting for the same event and believed and had faith, but 5 ran out of oil and missed it.
Is it possible that everyone that has said the sinner's prayer is waiting for the bridegroom? What percent of "sinner prayer" repeaters even know the bridegroom is returning? And how many people know who the Bridegroom is returning for? *Hint, His bride!* Okay, who is His bride? And then who are the virgins that run out of oil? So many questions! (In my life everyone says I'm the person with the most questions and I often find that nobody else has even considered half of the things I have questions about! Even my granddaughter told me that I have "a lot of questions!". (It's rare for a child to tell an adult that! I feel honored!!)).
I have mostly focused on how to live after recognizing that Jesus is the Son of God and Lord of my life, so I have many areas of the future days that I have not spent time studying. I do believe that if I live each day as Jesus wants me to, that He will take care of me and my future. However with all of that said I've recently developed a concern that a lot of people are living in a false sense of security just waiting for that day they get to cash in the "Rapture" ticket. So I'm tackling the part of the message that I've learned so far~
Okay, back to the basics of what I have begun to understand ~ Jesus is the Bridegroom, He has promised to return for His bride, the church is His bride, the church is supposed to be growing more beautiful with it's growth as it waits for the return of the Bridegroom, and the bride should be waiting for the return of her groom with great love and expectation! Now the part that will probably shock a few people~ the church that is the bride is holy, set apart from the sins of the world, it is a corporate body, it should be growing in loveliness. If a person is not living a life dedicated to being the bride are they one of the virgins that runs out of oil? or are they one of the ones that Jesus said "leave Me, I never knew you"? See, more questions to be prayed about~
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Asking God
I recently spoke to an elderly woman of God. We were talking about things in life, family, government, etc. We agreed that we need to pray for family but when I asked her if she prayed for our country and government, she said "No, I believe God knows what He's going to do". I disagreed and told her I thought God waited for us to pray and ask Him to move. I told her I felt it was the same as when we want to hear from our children. She agreed, but I think her thinking reflects a lot of confusion that people allow to creep into their way of thinking. It sounds like a tactic of the enemy to prevent us from reaching out to our Heavenly Father. If the enemy stops us from asking of God, he also stops God from answering our prayers. Let's not fall for that trick! ~Pray without ceasing~
See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, Ephesians 6:18
See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:15-18
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, Ephesians 6:18
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Prayer 7/7/11
Recently we attended church (July 3) and heard a message by Frank Seamster, after the message people went forward for church. Lane and I went forward and Lane was prayed for twice while I was waiting, the prayer warriors were moving through the throng and while I was waiting for Lane asked Natalia Seamster (the minister"s wife) to pray for me. Natalia Seamster was a very powerful prayer warrior. She prayed for the lying voices to be silenced and for any effects of lies to be removed from me. She prayed and told me not to listen to any lies to only trust the word of God, not to even trust "facts". As she prayed she told me that we would enter the gates of the tabernacle and run to the altar where we belonged. The prayer hit me very hard she would move her hand from my forehead to my stomach, then back up again. The prayer brought on tears and the catcher had to hold me up.
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