Tuesday, August 30, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT

Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Proverbs 12: 25
Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop, but a good word maketh it glad. (KJV)
Worry makes a man's heart heavy, a kindly word makes it glad. ( Jerusalem Bible)

Defeat is achieved by looking at d'-feet. When the enemy of our soul wants to defeat us, he fills us with worry, heaviness, hurt, fear and confusion, this causes us to look down and stoop over with the heaviness of trouble. It is a though a great weight was placed upon our shoulders and we are bound by the fetters or circumstances.

A kindly word, lifts up the head and makes the heart glad. A good word in the hearing of a person who is down-trodden, lifts the heavy burden and breaks the fetters, setting the captive free.

We are the bearers of the "good word" the "kindly word" that can dispel darkness. What we need to do is USE IT. The sick need kindness; the hurt need compassion; the depressed need joy and the Christian has the word of Hope.

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? HOPE THOU IN GOD; FOR I SHALL YET PRAISE HIM, WHO IS THE HEALTH OF MY COUNTENANCE, AND MY GOD (Psalm 42: 11)


Monday, August 29, 2011

CREATION - GOD'S HANDIWORK

Tuesday, August 30, 2011
II Corinthians 1:3

Blessed be GOD, even the Father of our LORD JESUS Christ, the Father of mercies, and the GOD of all comfort.

Comfort means that we carry one another's burdens; exhortation means that we call a person forward; edification means that we build one another up. These three words; comfort, exhortation and edification, are the ways in which we can build up the Body of Christ. Negative words and images always tear down and weaken the fellowship, but words of mercy and kindness build up and strengthen.

I Thessalonians 5: 11 says, Wherefore, comfort yourselves together, and edify one another...
Do not allow the leaven of malice and wickedness to enter into the community of faith in JESUS Christ; it will destroy the unity and weaken the faith, thus weakening the witness. This is the devil's plan and he uses all willing people. We must always comfort, exhort and edify the whole community, so that together we will be strong in our love and witness of JESUS Christ in the world.

BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND BE WITNESSES OF HIS LOVE IN THE WORLD

COMFORT, EXHORT AND EDIFY ONE ANOTHER


Sunday, August 28, 2011

CREATION - GOD'S HANDIWORK

Monday, August 29, 2011
Job 12: 7, 8
But ask, now, the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee; or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee; and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee.

READ PSALM 8 AND MEDITATE ON IT.

GOD has given to all of creation His breath of life; each possesses wisdom from Him. Listen to the sound of the quail and sparrow; listen to the bee and the wasp; listen to the horse and the donkey; listen to the whales sing. Why do wasps build the shape of the nest hanging from my porch? Why do the bees build the nest in their shape? Why do the hummingbirds hide their nest in the branches, while the Morning Doves build theirs on the ends of the limbs? What are the Deer saying by their coloring as they blend with the surroundings? Why do the lizards and chameleons change colors to match their environment and the lizard grows a new tail when the old one was left behind as he escaped a predator?

The answer to all these questions is one answer: GOD made them that way and gave them wisdom to live. GOD gave us the way to live with Him and be prosperous; all we have to do is listen and look for Him. He has given us everything to live well and happy; choose Him and live.

Nature glorifies GOD and shows forth His handiwork. We are made in the image of GOD and show His great workmanship; memory, reason and skill. The choice is ours to use what He has given us in His way and prosper or to choose not to and die. This is the meaning of free will - THE CHOICE IS OURS.

CHOOSE LIFE IN HIM AND YOU WILL LIVE

Friday, August 26, 2011

LISTEN TO CREATION

Saturday, August 27, 2011
I Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

"As you near the end of a long race, your legs ache, your throat burns, and your whole body cries out for you to stop. This is when friends and fans are most valuable. Their encouragement helps you push through the pain to the finish line. "

"In the same way, Christians are to encourage one another. A word of encouragement offered at the right moment can be the difference between finishing well and collapsing along the way. Look around you. Be sensitive to others' need for encouragement, and offer supportive words or actions." ( LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE - New International version; Tyndale house Publishers, Inc. and Zondervan Publishing House; pg. 2582).

I quoted this passage from the Life Application Bible, because it said exactly what I know to be true. Encouragement can mean the difference between success and failure in all realms of life. As Christians, we must be children of encouragement; strengthening the brethren to grow in grace and love and knowledge of the LORD. We have the key: HOPE IN THE LORD, HOLD FAST TO YOUR FAITH IN THE GOD OF OUR SALVATION. HOLD ON, YOUR REDEMPTION DRAWS NEAR.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

LISTEN TO CREATION

Friday, August 26, 2011
Romans 15:1(NIV)
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

BEAR ONE ANOTHER'S BURDENS

There is a wonderful characteristic of the flock of Geese, when one falls behind due to exhaustion or injury, 2 stronger Geese will leave the flock and stay with the fallen one until he heals, then they will join another flock. No weak Goose will ever be left behind; 2 Geese will stay with him.

There is a strong lesson in this for the Christian Church, "the strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak". We are not in the business of pleasing our selves or our friends, we are always to be pleasing to GOD. What pleases GOD is when we "bear one another's burdens", carry the weak until they are strong and healed, forgive the sins of our brothers and sisters, and glorify GOD through the yielding of our selves to Christ.

It is a sacrifice for 2 Geese to leave the flock to stay with the fallen member of the "V". This sacrifice means that the fallen will be encouraged to fly again and not die. In the Church, it is a sacrifice to leave the friendly nest and go to a hurting souls, but in doing so, that soul is encouraged to fly and not die.

I am reminded that JESUS left Glory to seek and save us, who were lost without Him. The Good Shepherd leaves the 99 and goes to find the lost one. This is the mission of JESUS and we are commissioned to go and do likewise. For the sake of the Holy Name of JESUS.

LISTEN TO CREATION

Thursday August 25, 2011
Romans 1: 12
That you and I may be mutually encouraged by each others faith.

...- = "V" = VICTORY

Geese fly in a "V" formation. As the heading shows, "V" stands for Victory even in Morse code (...-). What is so "victorious" about the "V" formation? What can we learn from this form of flight?

The "V" causes the air currents to lift each member of the "V". The leader, pierces the air and causes it to flow under the arms of the "V". It is a fact that the geese can fly 70% farther in the "V" then alone. The Air Force uses the "V" formation to increase travel range, it conserves fuel.

These facts about the "V" formation give us deep insight into the verse from Romans. We are to be in fellowship, so that we are "encouraged by each others faith". The Scripture often calls us to build one another up in the most Holy faith, so that no one will fall away. Fellowship in the LORD, strengthens and gives the necessary "up lift" so that no member becomes weary and falls.

There is another fact about Geese, they "honk". Their sound is continuous as they fly. This sound encourages the leaders to press on; to keep flying. The lead Goose has to buck the head winds and this can be exhausting. The honk of the flock is encouragement. All Spiritual Leaders need the flock to encourage them. They are on the front lines, piercing the "head winds" which lifts the flock in flight. Daily prayer for the Spiritual leaders is like the continuous honking of the wild Geese, it lifts them up on the wings of the Holy Spirit.

Victory in JESUS has everything to do with the focus of the flight of the flock on JESUS and His way. We will pierce the darkness and be lifted high above the currents of this negative world. Together, we can encourage one another to rise one the wings of the wind and be able to fly free in the Holy Spirit.

VICTORY IN JESUS ...-

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

LISTEN TO CREATION

Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Hebrews 10: 25 (NIV)
Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

BEHOLD THE GEESE IN FLIGHT

Geese are a good example, from nature, concerning the strength of fellowship and the power of encouragement. We can learn a lot from them, because what they do naturally, is a reflection of how we, the Church, should conduct our self. They illustrate the importance of "meeting together" and "encouraging one another".

Entrance into the flock of Geese is by reproduction or invitation. When we are Born Again, we are part of the flock of GOD, by the reproductive work of JESUS AND HIS HOLY SPIRIT. We fly with the flock as part of the family. We are also those who invite to fly, with us, people who are open to receiving Christ; both receive the same benefits of the flock.

The verse includes a key phrase: "habit of doing". If we make it a habit of neglecting the meeting together with others, we become depleted in our spiritual life and stunted in our growth. In the flock of Geese, the flock lifts up the members and gives them strength to fly. The "V" formation creates an updraft so that the effort to fly is diminished; each member benefits from the work of the rest. A lone Goose, flying without the flock, can not fly as far, or as fast, because he has to buck the winds and weather by himself; within the flock, the winds and weather are channeled around the "V".

Lone Christians, refusing to meet with others or making it a habit of skipping fellowship, will weaken and fall behind. It is a matter of habit, once the habit of meeting together is established, fellowship will become natural and easy. The Christian walk will become stronger and life-sustaining.

LOOKING UNTO JESUS, THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH.


Monday, August 22, 2011

LISTEN TO CREATION

Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Psalm 19:1-3
The Heavens declare the glory of GOD, and the firmament showeth His handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.

The language of the Universe is the language of balance and order. GOD spoke into being a Universe that was in perfect balance and interdependent. It is so perfect that life can exist in every form; their song is a song of perfect harmony. This is the "handiwork" of GOD and His work is a song in perfect balance; His art work speaks of his love.

When you hear a Symphony or see a painting, you do not hear words and yet there are concepts and words that are formed in your hearing. This is the way of nature, it speaks knowledge from GOD through the unspoken word, through the concepts which are painted in Divine brush strokes. Listen to the rhythm of nature; watch its ebb and flow and you will learn from the Creator.

This is not the only way to learn the way of GOD; look and listen to the heartbeat of those people around you. Those people who are made in the likeness and image of GOD, greet them as holy gifts, then listen to them.

This is what JESUS came from the Father to tell us. All creation sings praise to the LORD GOD who loves us with infinite love and has spread out a table before us that is filled with the beauty of his handiwork. JESUS opened the door to the heavens for us to see the glory of GOD; through the Holy Spirit, He opened the Way for us to hear the song of the universe, singing songs of Divine love.

LISTEN, MY CHILDREN, AND YOU WILL HEAR ALL OF CREATION PRAISING GOD. JOIN YOUR VOICE WITH THEIRS.

LISTEN TO CREATION

Monday, August 22, 2011
Isaiah 55: 12
For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

This week, we will look at the way that all creation carries messages from the LORD to us; it speaks the Word of the LORD in a language that brings very deep understanding. As an example of this, we will look a the WAY OF THE GEESE and see what they have to tell us about fellowship in the LORD.

We will begin tomorrow with the WAY OF THE GEESE, but first we will look at the language of creation. The mountains and the hills speak to us of strength and agelessness. It is awesome to walk on the rim of the Grand Canyon and know that the ground you are walking on was formed, at least, 9000 years ago. People and civilizations lived among the rocks and trees; had families and worshiped together as a tribe. The mountains and hills call us to remember that we are part of the grand creation of GOD, so together we sing His praises. The trees of the field clap their hands as the wind blows through them. Listen to the pines, when the wind blows, it sings. I have put flute music to the melody of the pine trees; it goes on and on without cadence, a strong sound of love to the Creator.

Listen to the recordings of the whales, as they call to one another. One of the great composers, Hovhannas, has written a Symphony around the song of the whales. Listen to Coyotes sing their night song, or greyhound dogs sing, in harmony, as they howl. Listen to the song of the birds, the rhythm of the cricket and the grasshopper. Do ants sing? I would imagine they do. Do bees praise the LORD?

All creation honors its Creator with song that is heard by those who listen. Read Psalm 148.

BENEDICITE, OMNIA OPERA. ALL YE WORKS OF THE LORD, BLESS YE THE LORD

Friday, August 19, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT- GOD IS FAITHFUL

Saturday, August 20, 2011
I Thessalonians 5: 24
Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.

In this life, I am always looking for ways to reduce stress. If I get caught up in the flow of the negativity of people, I will sink into despair quickly. When I remember that GOD is in control of all matters and to follow Him is pure delight, then the stress goes away and despair is replaced by joy.

This verse from I Thessalonians has been with me for a very long time. I have come to understand that, when the LORD calls me to a task, He will provide the strength, wisdom and skill to accomplish that task. If things get tedious and it feels like I am trudging through muck and mire, there is something wrong. This is a signal for me to STOP and get on my knees before the LORD asking Him where I went wrong and how to proceed. The LORD gives step by step process and all we have to do is follow.

This verse, also, lets me know that all things come from Him and all I have to do is release to His sovereignty and He will accomplish what He sees has to be done. We struggle and stress over things that He has already accomplished, the stress is of our own choosing and will last as long as we keep fussing over it. Stop fussing and release to GOD, He is faithful to accomplish that which He has called you to do.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT- GOD IS FAITHFUL

Friday, August 19, 2011
II Thessalonians 3: 1,2,3
Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the LORD may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you, and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all men have faith. But the LORD is faithful, who shall establish you, and keep you from evil.

There are four aspects of these words from the Apostle Paul that are great encouragement for us. Paul asks for prayer for the following things: 1. the Word of the LORD would have "free course"and be glorified; 2. deliverance from wicked and unreasonable men; 3. the LORD is faithful; 4. The LORD will establish you and keep you from evil.

When we are walking in the way of the LORD, there will be challenges. Many doors will close because we proclaim the word of GOD freely. Ask for prayer from others, that the door of utterance will be open and that the Word of the LORD will have free course and be glorified.

There will be those who resist the Word of the LORD. In an unreasonable manner, they will do wicked things to oppose the Word going forth. All people do not have faith in the LORD, nor have they yielded their life to Him. Ask for prayers from intercessors that the LORD will prevent all evil and wickedness from harming you. The LORD is faithful to protect you from evil. He will establish you upon the Rock so that your foot will not slip nor will you be caught in the miry clay of circumstances.

THE LORD IS FAITHFUL TO THOSE WHO FOLLOW HIM

ENCOURAGEMENT- GOD IS FAITHFUL

Thursday August 18, 2011
Psalm 100: 5 (NIV)
For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

I was thinking about the use of the words "good, love and faithfulness"; these qualities of GOD that endure forever and continue through all generations. These are the VERY NATURE OF GOD. He can not act contrary to these qualities, since He cannot go against His nature. GOD, by nature, is Love; He is goodness; He is faithful.

I was drawn to the word "continues" which is a transitory word. It shows us that GOD'S faithfulness "continues" from our beginnings, throughout or life and into eternal life. It reminds me that GOD is faithful in every moment of every day, watching out for His children and never turning away. "There is no shadow of turning with The LORD."

I heard on the news about a child drowning in the swimming pool. His mother had just gone into the house for a moment, when she returned, the child was dead. GOD never turns and goes away, even for a second. His faithfulness "continues" through all generations.

"All generations" is a curious phrase. This means that GOD will not turn His back on ANYONE in ANY GENERATION, forever. As He was in the beginning of time, He will be and continues to be forever. Read the Scripture from this direction and mark the faithfulness of GOD, He is the same today and always. "GOD is the same, yesterday, today and forever".

Look around you when you are in a crowd, let your mind wrap around the fact that GOD is faithful to EVERYONE in that crowd. He hears their cry for help, He listens to their heart and knows their thoughts. GOD is present to them as He is to you. This will bring to light what the Scripture says: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25: 40; NIV)

"THERE IS NO SHADOW OF TURNING WITH THEE. THOU CHANGEST NOT, THY COMPASSIONS THEY FAIL NOT. AS THOU HAST BEEN, THOU FOREVER WILL BE. GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS, LORD UNTO ME."

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

MERCY IS NEW EVERY DAY

Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Lamentations 3 : 22, 23
It is because of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not, they are new every morning;
GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS.


I hear the song from the old Hymnal, "GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS, O GOD MY FATHER; THERE IS NO SHADOW OF TURNING WITH THEE." The LORD has compassion on all of us and in His compassion, He shows mercy that is new every day.

Compassion is an emotion which leads to the act of mercy. GOD looks upon us in our journey through this life and has compassion on us. He reaches through the struggles we experience and bestows mercy in our time of need. GOD IS FAITHFUL TO DO THIS.
Psalm 23: 6 says, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the House of the LORD forever." This is GOD'S Word to us and He is always faithful to his Word.

"THOU CHANGEST NOT, THY COMPASSIONS THEY FAIL NOT; AS THOU HAST BEEN, THOU FOREVER WILL BE. GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS, LORD UNTO ME."

ENCOURAGEMENT- GOD IS FAITHFUL

Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Deuteronomy 7:9
Know, therefore, that the LORD thy GOD, He is GOD, the faithful GOD, who keepeth covenant and mercy with them who love Him and keep His commandments to a thousand generations.

THE FAITHFUL GOD

It is one thing to say that GOD is faithful, which means that He acts faithfully. It is another and more powerful thing to say that He is the FAITHFUL GOD, which means that His nature is faithfulness. GOD is love, by His nature; GOD is truth, by His nature; GOD is faithful, by His nature.

There are three things that GOD cannot do: 1. GOD cannot deny Himself; 2. GOD cannot be tempted by evil or do evil (James 1: 13); 3. GOD cannot lie (Titus 1: 2). This is strengthening to us who lean on GOD, we know that we can trust Him with our life and know that He is faithful to all his promises.

II Timothy 2: 11-13 declares that JESUS IS FAITHFUL TO HIS FAITHFULNESS. JESUS is GOD incarnate and His nature is ONE with the Father. He cannot deny Himself, He is GOD; He cannot be tempted to do evil; He cannot lie, He is the Truth.

He will keep faith with those who love Him for a thousand, thousand generations. Wow, that is a long time!

TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS, LOOK FULL IN HIS WONDERFUL FACE. AND THE THINGS OF EARTH WILL GROW STRANGELY DIM, IN THE LIGHT OF HIS GLORY AND GRACE

Monday, August 15, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT- GOD IS FAITHFUL

Monday, August 15, 2011
Hebrews 10: 24, 25
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as ye see the day approaching.

BUILD UP ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE AND GOOD WORKS

In my lifetime, I have been a member of a number of groups; social, arts, philanthropy, Church and professional. In each one, I have noticed a time of "down shift", when things started to drag and people lost interest and motivation. That point was reached, in each, at the time when negative thinking and speech took over the conversations of the members. People would gossip about others, pull down their friends and partners, pick on the processes, and argue about nothing important. This tool of the enemy is alive and well in the groups that gather and do not seek the LORD and His way and righteousness.

When we look to JESUS for the way, the truth and the life; He will show us how to live in Love and in harmony. Part of that rests in building up one another in Love and good works. Many people look at the conflict of Peter and Paul as being an excuse for argument and separation, fracturing the fellowship into two, or more, camps; this is a weak excuse since the Gospel was spread abroad through each. The separation, multiplied the spread of the Gospel of JESUS. The most important thing is that the Gospel be spread abroad. That JESUS Christ be lifted up so that all people be drawn to Him.

Groups and people who lose sight of the purpose and plan of GOD to bring all people into a personal relationship with JESUS, will falter and fail. The Scripture says, "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all to the Glory of GOD." (1st. Corinthians 10:31).

I encourage you in the faith to do all things for the Glory of GOD; building up one another in Holy Love and strengthening one another through prayer and compassion. We are the handiwork of GOD, unique and precious for unique and special work for Him. Be encouraged this day to do the work of the LORD in building up the brethren.


Friday, August 12, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT - TRIAL OF OUR FAITH

Saturday, August 13, 2011
I Peter 1: 6,7
In this ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold trials. That the trials of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of JESUS Christ.

II Timothy 2: 11-13
It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall live with Him; If we suffer, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, He also will deny us; If we believe not, yet He abideth faithful; HE CANNOT DENY HIMSELF.

WHY DO THE GOOD SUFFER?

JESUS said, "why do you call me good, there is one Good, my Father who is in heaven."

What is the reason for suffering? All of us will suffer at one time or another, WHY? The verses in I Peter and II Timothy, give an answer to that timely question. The answer they give is that we are being refined through fire, to bring forth the preciousness that is greater than gold. That preciousness will endure to the coming of the LORD. Trials have a beginning and an ending; they do not last longer than we can endure. They are for the purpose of refining the spirit of man, shaping him into the image of JESUS Christ and it is eternal.

I we die with Him, we will be raised with Him; if we suffer with him, we will reign with him. JESUS goes through the fiery trials with us, so that we are never alone. Tribulation works patience; patience, experience; experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed for the Love of GOD is shed abroad in Christ JESUS. GOD NEVER WASTES ANYTHING; He will work all things together for good, even the trials.

BE ENCOURAGED; GOD IS IN THE MIDDLE OF YOUR TROUBLE TURNING ALL THINGS TO THE GOOD

Thursday, August 11, 2011

GOD IS THERE THROUGH IT ALL

Friday, August 12, 2011
I Corinthians 10:13
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but GOD is faithful, who will not permit you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will, with the temptation, also make the way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

GOD DELIVERS THROUGH SITUATIONS

GOD delivers from situations and is faithful to prevent things from happening, which we can not see; GOD also delivers through situations which occur. The prayer that JESUS taught says, "Yea, though I walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me." GOD is present in the middle of the circumstances, just like He was IN the fire with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

There are no limits to GOD, He is always present and never turns His back. He provides a way out so that we can go through the "fire" without harm or the smell of smoke. Troubles will come to all of us at one time or another, but GOD is faithful and will not allow us to fall. He will not let our foot slip or be utterly destroyed. He will lift us up out of the miry clay and place our foot upon the rock.

THE LORD GOD IS FAITHFUL

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

AREAS OF GOD'S FAITHFULNESS

Thursday, August 11, 2011
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

GOD IS FAITHFUL TO FORGIVE SINS

There is a question, which arises in almost all Churches and among most fellowships: What is done with forgiven sins? Let's see what the Scripture says:
1. The LORD remembers them no more ( Heb. 10: 17)
2. The sins are behind His back, while He looks at us face to face. (Isaiah 38: 17)
3. They are thrown into the depth of the sea (Micah 7: 19)
4. They are thrown as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103: 12).

Our reminder to you: NO FISHING IN THE DEPTH OF THE SEA
GET RID OF THE BOOK OF WRONGS

EMBRACE THE FORGIVENESS OF GOD; HE IS FAITHFUL


Tuesday, August 9, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT

Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The Revelation 19:11, 13
And I saw heaven opened and, behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called FAITHFUL AND TRUE, and in righteousness He doth judge and make war...And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood; and His Name is called THE WORD OF GOD.

JESUS IS FAITHFUL AND TRUE

In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with GOD and the Word was GOD. (John 1: 1)

The passage from The Revelation is speaking about JESUS, and JESUS is GOD. GOD is by nature, Faithful and true; He cannot lie, He can not go against His Word, GOD is faithful to His Word.

In the world today, we are looking a many frightening situations. If we look with the eyes and if we hear with the ears of our old nature, we will tremble in fear. People are homeless, who once had a home and a job; young people, who had hope for the future, are unable to dream of a better life, because the reality is dismal. There is great fear, right now; fear clouds the mind, the soul and blocks the Holy Spirit from speaking words of encouragement. This is a time when we must hold on in faith, believing that GOD is faithful to His Word. He will not let your foot slip; faithful is He who has called you, He also will do it. HOLD ON TO YOUR FAITH IN HIM.

When we "hold on" to JESUS, the darkness that clouds the mind and the soul, vanishes in the light of faith. When we embrace JESUS, the blockade vanishes, prison doors fling open and the Holy Spirit is released, breaking the chains and setting the prisoner free. No prison or tomb can hold the LORD GOD.

And He had on His vesture and on His thigh a name written,
KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.


ENCOURAGEMENT

Tuesday, August 9, 2011
I Corinthians 1: 8, 9
Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. GOD IS FAITHFUL, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son JESUS CHRIST, OUR LORD.

GOD IS FAITHFUL

GOD IS LOVE; GOD IS FAITHFUL; GOD IS TRUTH.
GOD loves always and in all ways. He never does anything that is not according to His Love. GOD is faithful always and in all ways. He never acts against His Word. What He says, He will do. GOD always speaks the truth and His actions are always according to the truth. GOD cannot lie.

When He says that you are called unto the fellowship of His Son JESUS CHRIST, OUR LORD, He means that we, who believe in JESUS have fellowship with Him. Being found in Him, we are marked as blameless in the day of the LORD. Do you believe that you have fellowship with JESUS? Then spend time in fellowship and union with Him. Sit and listen to Him; read His Word and do what He tells you to do; He is the LORD and He is faithful.

When the Word says, "By His stripes you are healed." Do you believe that you are healed? When He says, "All things work together for good to them that love GOD, to them that are called according to His purpose." Do you believe that in all circumstances, GOD is there and will see you through, turning the circumstances to the good?

GOD IS FAITHFUL TO YOU; the question is, ARE YOU FAITHFUL TO HIM?

The amazing fact remains, GOD will always be faithful to you, TRUST HIM.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Sunday, August 7, 2011

ENCOURAGEMENT

Monday, August 8, 2011
I Thessalonians 5: 11(NIV)
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

This is a word of encouragement to all of us. We are already building each other up; we are already encouraging one another - ARE WE?

The LORD wants us to be a Barnabas, building up and encouraging everyone to be the best that they can be. "A word of encouragement offered at the right moment can be the difference between finishing well and collapsing along the way. Look around you. Be sensitive to others' need for encouragement, and offer supportive words or actions." (Life Application Bible Commentary, pg. 2582).

I was a long distance runner, many years ago. I remember one 10 mile race; I was feeling very tired and my legs were aching and sore. Everything in me wanted to stop running and quit the race, until, I heard the sound of the crowd along the race route shouting, "come on, you can do it, the race is almost over, one more mile to go, you can do it!!!!!!" They played music and shouted encouragement to me and the other runners. Well, the pain gave way to energy and enthusiasm as I, and the other runners found new life. We finished the race, we kept the faith and we were rejoicing.

That is what encouragement can do, it strengthens, gives life, gives energy, gives hope to those who are in the journey of life that is hard and up hill.
COME ON, YOU CAN DO IT; THE RACE IS ALMOST OVER; ONE MORE MILE TO GO, YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!

Saturday, August 6, 2011

POWER OF INTERCESSION

Saturday, August 6, 2011
I Samuel 12: 23
Moreover, as for me, GOD forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and right way.


It is a sin NOT to pray for others

The thought that I would sin against the LORD, if I didn't pray for a person who asked me, sends chills up and down my spine. This verse is very clear on that subject; it is a sin not to pray for another who is in need.

The call to intercession is a general call to everyone in the Body of Christ. It is a call to join JESUS in His intercession before the Father and by the Holy Spirit unite our spirit with His. To say "no I am too busy to pray" means that there are souls in deep need who will not have an earthly intercessor. If you need to form a list of people to pray for, look around you and see who needs prayer; pick up the newspaper and begin to pray for those in the articles; listen to conversations around you and pray for their needs; go shopping and pray for the people in the store. This way, you will be very busy interceding with JESUS and each soul will benefit by your prayers.

I had a startling experience when I went bowling one day. I was waiting for my turn and the bowler before me was VERY SLOW. I was getting impatient and a little angry, suddenly, the LORD made me aware that everyone in the Bowling Alley was in need of prayer, so I prayed for each of them. I almost missed my turn to bowl, I was so deep in prayer. I will never know why there was such a need for an intercessor, but there must have been a very real need.

Another experience that I had, I will never forget. In around 1976, I was standing in my kitchen when an overwhelming sadness came over me. I knew that the LORD wanted me to be in prayer for a situation that was very important to Him. I prayed and prayed all that day and into the night. The next morning, I asked the LORD what I had been praying about. He showed me the newspaper and said "READ". I opened to an article about 5 men who stormed a prison of condemned men in UGANDA. These five men overpowered the guards and set free 500, sentenced to die, prisoners. Idi Amin's guards were not able to stop the 5 anointed men, because the LORD was with them, the Holy Spirit had empowered them and the Church was praying.
Years later, I met a person who knew that moment, he lived in Uganda and knew some of the condemned prisoners. Later, I met another intercessor who had been in prayer at that same moment, I lived in Virginia at the time, she lived in Arizona. We did not know each other, but the LORD called us to pray.

INTERCEDE, BROTHERS AND SISTERS, THERE ARE MANY WHO ARE IN GREAT NEED OF US TO JOIN JESUS IN INTERCESSION

Thursday, August 4, 2011

POWER OF INTERCESSION

Friday, August 5, 2011
Galatians 6: 2
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

FAITH MOVES GOD

In Matthew 8: 13, JESUS makes a strong remark to the Centurion, He said, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the very same hour. The Centurion interceded for his servant with unquestionable faith that JESUS would heal him. Even though the Centurion was a gentile, JESUS responded to the faith he had, not his nationality. FAITH MOVES GOD TO ACT

In Mark 2: 1-12 there is a story of 4 friends bringing a paralytic man to JESUS by carving a hole in the roof and lowering the man down to where JESUS stood. It says,"When JESUS saw their faith, He said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins are forgiven thee." These four men were intercessors for their friend, their faith is what moved JESUS to respond to the need. There are many people who are in such a mess that they can not pray; they are paralyzed by circumstances. These need the prayers of the Church to lift them up and carry them to JESUS with a faith that moves GOD to act.

When we bear the burdens of another, we are fulfilling the law of Christ, which is unconditional love. We, then, become like the 4 friends, carrying the one who needs help to JESUS, with unwavering faith.


BEAR ONE ANOTHER'S BURDENS AND FULFILL THE LAW OF CHRIST

POWER OF INTERCESSION

Thursday, August 4, 2011
I Timothy 2:1
I exhort, therefore, that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving thanks, be made for all men.

JESUS, THE HOLY SPIRIT, AND THE CHURCH, INTERCEDES TOGETHER

There is a very powerful trio of intercessors, praying all at the same time, lifting up the needs of the world to the Father. We are a part of this trio and are challenged to be faithful to our task.

Who is the Church? Many people have different answers to that question; the Bible answers it this way, ALL TRUE BELIEVERS IN JESUS CHRIST COMPOSE THE BODY OF CHRIST - THE CHURCH. (Read Matthew 16 and 18; The Acts; all Paul's letters; Hebrews 12:23; The Revelation 2 and 3).

To the Church, Paul writes that "all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving thanks be made for all men." This is a call to ministry with JESUS and the Holy Spirit for the great good of the whole world. We, the Church, have a task before us, look at this world and pray with JESUS and in the Holy Spirit for the salvation, sanctification, peace and prosperity of every avenue of life in this whole world.

Pray for the unborn; pray for the people who are suffering hunger, oppression, famine, drought, pestilence; pray for the homes torn apart by strife; pray for the homeless; pray for the mentally ill and mentally challenged; pray for the school children; Colleges and students; PRAY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NO INTERCESSOR.

PRAY FOR THE CHURCH, TO BE FAITHFUL TO IT'S CALL TO INTERCEDE.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

POWER OF INTERCESSION

Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Romans 8: 26, 27
Likewise, the Spirit also helpeth our infirmity; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of GOD.

JESUS IS THE GREAT INTERCESSOR AND THE HOLY SPIRIT MAKES INTERCESSION ACCORDING TO THE WILL OF GOD

As we unite our heart to GOD in worship, we are seated with Him in the Throne room of the Heavens. As we sit with Him, we join JESUS in intercession for all the saints. When we bring our intercessions to JESUS, the Holy Spirit makes our requests perfect before the Father and in accordance with the Will of GOD.

INTERCESSION IS KEY TO GOD'S INTERVENTION

When GOD intervenes, He brings life and salvation; healing and restoration. We are called to come boldly to the Throne of Grace so that we can receive mercy; we are to come boldly to the Throne of Grace so that those for whom we pray will receive mercy.

We are not alone in our petitions to the Father. JESUS and the Holy Spirit are in agreement with us, with a passion that is beyond our understanding.

COME, WORSHIP THE LORD AND INTERCEDE WITH HIM BEFORE THE FATHER

Monday, August 1, 2011

POWER OF INTERCESSION

Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Romans 8:34
Who is he that condemneth? Shall Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of GOD, who maketh intercession for us?

JESUS is the number 1 intercessor

JESUS sits at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us; He stands in the gap for His beloved ones. JESUS is our advocate ( 1 John 2: 1, 2). JESUS keeps us from the evil one (John 17: 15). JESUS is our intercessor (Luke 22: 31, 32). We are covered with the prayer of JESUS for our good and that the Father would show us mercy.

I am brought to my knees by the thought that the King of Kings and LORD of LORDS has such deep love that He would spend all Eternity making sure that His people will live with Him forever. His mission and ministry continues to be felt, as He stands in the gap for sinful man.
There are not words enough to give him thanks and praise for all that He has done and is doing and will do for us.

If JESUS spends all of eternity in intercession for us, it would be fitting for us to stand in the gap for others. It says in the Scripture that we are to bear one an other's burdens and thus fulfill the law of Christ, which is love. We have been given the privilege of sitting with JESUS in the heavenlies, making intercession with Him for the lives of other people. Their salvation and healing hinges on the intercession of the ones who love them. Is our love strong enough to embrace those whom we do not know and lift them to Christ for wholeness, for prosperity, for deliverance and for salvation? Will we lay down our life for our friends? Will we lay down our life for our enemies?

JESUS laid down His life for all of us, while we were yet sinners. Let us pray for all people, everywhere and for those who have no intercessor.
LET US PRAY WITH JESUS