I began this post in April. We have begun our annual January Fast at ACF, so I’m catching up on things I’ve neglected over the busy season. Here I muse about God’s promised blessings and the curse of antisemitism.
One eternal promise given by the LORD God Almighty that we must keep in mind:
Genesis 12:3 I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Eternal Promise
Those who bless God’s chosen people shall be blessed. First to the Jew, and then to the gentile in Christ, as the Apostle Paul said. The devil knows his time is short. He doesn’t know the timing, and he has often gotten it wrong, pushing his agenda until God’s mercy stops him.
Antisemitism
What I’m getting at is that antisemitism is on the rise around the world today. Did you know that levels of antisemitism in Ireland are as rampant as they were in medieval times? Check out this article in All Israel News, April 9, 2025.
In our own country, just over half of Christians in the USA support Israel and the Jewish people. Yes, this is a higher level than in Europe, but we have a long way to go to reach our churches and teach them to bless and be blessed before we join in the cursing and become cursed.
Jews For Jesus
Jews For Jesus newsletter is where I first heard about this antisemitism report, and Chosen People Ministries is the second this week. Just so you know, Chosen People Ministries currently has a $100,000.00 matching grant if you’re looking for a good place to support ministry to Israel and the Jewish people. [go to their website to see if this is still available]
In Jews For Jesus Israel Team Prayer Guide, I find, “Less than 1 percent of Israel’s 9 million people believe in Jesus. But since the war began, we’ve witnessed a surge in spiritual openness: more Israelis are reaching out, searching for hope, peace, and truth”
My Time in Israel
When I was in Israel in 2010, we asked them how we could help their country. They said, ” We need your support. We have the tools we need and don’t need your army, but we do need you to support us.” So, speak up for them, stand for God’s truth, and speak that truth in love.
Along with Chosen People Ministries and Jews For Jesus, I also recommend The Joshua Fund, Christians United For Israel, Sid Roth’s It’s Supernatural, and Elijah Streams (just a few ministries that support Israel & God’s chosen people)
Let us support those who are stepping into this opportunity to minister if we are not able to join them in person. They need our prayers and support.
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you. 7 Peace be within your walls, Prosperity within your palaces.” 8 For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, “Peace be within you.” 9 Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek your good.
Praying for the peace of Jerusalem has multiple benefits according to this Psalm. Let us latch on to those blessings and not curse. For the sake of all my family, friends, and loved ones, I will continue to find ways to bless God’s chosen people and pray.
May we all seek to do good to God’s people, beginning with the Jews, which will spread to others. Let us help others find the truth about the nation of Israel, as well as the people.
Conclusion
May multitudes find their Savior in Jesus Christ, Who is our Messiah, as well as theirs. All for the glory of our LORD God Almighty.
The view in our yard, the glory of God shown on an autumn day
Yes, God is on the move in a mighty way. We are called to a high standard as those who profess Jesus Christ as Lord. It’s imperative that we learn from those who go before us. Let’s look at some passages from the book of Colossians, which the Apostle Paul wrote from prison to a congregation deep in the midst of secularism.
Captivity
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Hollow and deceptive philosophy? Think of the worldly wisdom coming from all angles on social media, advertisements, TV shows… many human traditions… even legalism in churches.
Each day, I hear another “doctor ” who knows just which foods or supplements, exercises or sleep things you should never do… or should always do. “Just watch this video to find out this simple household trick you can do to loose pounds.” Which leads to their special formula for supplements that will cost you $49.95 for a month’s supply. It’s sourced from the best things on earth, and you’d better order multiple bottles, because supply is limited. Then you’ll see ads connected to this video in your Facebook feed, as well as your YouTube watching.
Human Tradition
2:16 Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.
In Paul’s time, he was talking about the Jewish leaders and idol worshippers. Today, all religions get caught up in these things.
2:17 These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
Elemental spiritual forces? Do you remember the earthly elements God attacked with the 20 plagues in Egypt? All the things they deified and worshipped. I’m sure by now you’ve heard of Matchu Pechu in South America. [Spell Check didn’t even balk at this name, it’s currently so popular] What about aliens, the occult, crystals, “global warming”, Yoga, Reikei… calling in the elements to work for them, especially for healing the body and the earth.
2:20 Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: 21 “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”? 22 These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings.
Living in Jesus Christ
Set Your Heart On…
3:1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Questions: What things is your heart set on? What is your mind dwelling on? What kind of fruit is developing in your life from those things? How deep is your connection with Christ Jesus?
Devote Yourselves To…
4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Paul repeatedly speaks about thankfulness and gratitude in Colossians. This is God’s will for us, to be prayerful, watchful, and thankful. Doing these things leads us away from grumbling, complaining, depressive, worldly thoughts and actions.
5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
Pastor Josh Gmmiter reminds us to “see the one in front of me”. If we minister to that one with what the Lord has given us, we will share a supernatural encounter with them. You never know how you might bring down from heaven just what that person needs.
Your Conversation…
6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
What does this look like in our lives? Grace means not being critical or judgemental. Seasoned with salt means sharing something that might irritate, but helps that soul thirst for the Word of Truth. Being tapped into the Holy Spirit helps you know what to say in each situation.
In Conclusion
May we all strive to make the most of each day, living in the grace and admonition of our Savior.
What an excellent book to be reading at this time, the book of Nehemiah! Today, I am using the NIV, reading in chapter 4. Join me as I lead you through.
The Enemy Taunts
In Nehemiah 4:1-3, Sanballat and Tobiah the Ammonite, in the presence of the army of Samaria, were taunting the Jews… “Even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!”
Is anyone taunting you? Despising you?
The godly pray
The Godly Pray
Nehemiah prays, “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads.” (4:4)
Note: Jesus tells us to do good to our enemies, bless and do not curse. These days, we hear testimony of how taunting captors surrender to Jesus through prayer and love.
Angry Plots
After Nehemiah prayed, the Israelites worked with all their hearts. Sanballat, Tobias, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the people of Ashdod heard the repairs continued. They became very angry, plotting together to fight and stir up trouble against Jerusalem.
Is anyone trying to stir up trouble, angry with you, or plotting against you?
Pray And Guard
Nehemiah tells us, “We prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.”
Oh, that we may pray to God, our help and our salvation, and do our part to guard what belongs to us as His children.
Discouragement
Meanwhile, the people of Judah were discouraged. “The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we can not rebuild the wall.” On top of this, the Jews living near, ten times over, said, “Wherever you turn, they will attack us.” This hopelessness reminds me of Job’s wife telling him, “Curse God and die!”
What or who is causing you to despair?
Our children, our children’s children, their children’s children…
Remember God/Generations
Nehemiah posted families with weapons at the most exposed places. Then, after looking things over, he said,“Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
Currently, the Sprit is putting emphasis on the generations and our responsibility towards those coming after us. Discern your vulnerable places and don your Spiritual weapons. Let faith and love keep your fear away. As Pastor Josh Gmmiter said in his sermon October 18 & 19, we should fear the Lord God Almighty more than we fear anything else!
Be Aware&Prepare
Their enemies heard that they were aware of them and that God had frustrated their plot. The people returned to work, half of them building and half guarding. Those who were carrying materials worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other.
Identity InChrist
How do we go about our day? Do we realize the war that’s raging in the spiritual world as well as the natural? Daily putting on our godly armor will equip us for what’s ahead. Wisdom is discerning who we are in Christ and who He truly is to us – relationship!
Sound The Trumpet
Nehemiah kept the trumpeter at his side because “the work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!”
Our work is also extensive, and we are also widely separated. Let’s sound the unifying Trump of the Lord. Remember, our God still fights for us! We are to work faithfully to spread the glory, love, and salvation this world truly needs.
Here’s an interesting quote by D. L. Moody, that’s on my calendar: ‘”Every great movement of God can be traced to a kneeling figure.” Lord, thanks for Praying Hyde and Father Nash, two praying saints behind previous moves of God that come to mind.
Pastor Josh Gmmiter, October 18th & 19th, ACF Church
I just finished reading the latest issue of The Voice of the Martyrs magazine subtitled, “HEEDING GOD’S CALL IN COMMUNIST NATIONS”. We are only an election away from socialists and/or communists coming to power in any country, so no one is exempt.
Our Response?
What should be our response? First, we can never trust that our help comes from those who rule. We as Christians must remember that:
My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness I dare not trust the sweetest frame But wholly lean on Jesus’ name
True Freedom
Second, the best way to change a society is to bring people to Jesus.
“Genuine revival among Ethiopia’s Christians led to Communism’s defeat in their country… Scripture, history, and today’s persecuted Christians bear witness that ultimately only Christ, enthroned in the hearts of our people, can make and keep our nations free.” VOM President, Cole Richards
A Sound, Disciplined Mind
Wednesday evenings Women’s Group at our church is beginning a book study, A Sound, Disciplined Mind by Nancy Dufresne. As Nancy says on the back of the book, you can live free from worry, fear, doubt & depression… not matter what is going on around us.
When we accept Jesus: your spirit is renewed, but your body and mind are not. They need to be disciplined to come into alignment with the renewed spirit within; your heart that belongs to Jesus. (P.12)
Right Thinking
“When you think wrong, believe wrong, or speak wrong, you give place to the devil… When you have right thinking, then you’ll have right believing and right speaking, and you will keep the door closed to the devil.” (P.15)
Renewing Your Mind
Start by reading God’s Word. Don’t just read Scripture, but think deeply into the Word. Mutter it to yourself. (This is true meditation) Talk to God about His Word. Thank Him for His Word.
Speaking in Tongues
Dufresne recommends speaking in tongues daily. I find doing this encourages my soul to praise the Lord and opens up my mind to connect with my soul. You can’t just try to get the devil’s suggestions out of your thoughts. You need to flood your mind with the truth of the knowledge of God’s Word and flush out the other thoughts.
Testimony
I encountered a woman manning a booth at a festival I went to this summer who practices Kripaula yoga, Reikei healing, tarrot cards… and has a group who have begun a “church,” and she’s got 30-some state certified healers. She said they believe in the Bible.
Well, I began speaking in tongues. She told me I was messing her up. She was trying to get a word for me but couldn’t. I told her I was speaking in tongues, asking the Spirit of God who to say to her. She let me hold her hand, and I prayed that the Lord would reveal to her the true Spirit of God.
My Takeaway
First, I witnessed that the spiritual battle is real, and if we have the Holy Spirit of God, we have an effect on others. Second, the more we grow in our relationship with the LORD, the more like Jesus we become, and the more we can bring heaven down to earth. All for His glory!
Conclusion
I’ve only read the introduction and first chapter in this book so far, and we haven’t had a meeting yet to discuss it. So far, I can tell you: get into the Word, apply it to your life, and make sure you fellowship with the congregation God wants you in, that helps teach you the Word. The more you put in, the more your heart and mind align with God’s Word and the more the kingdom manifests and the devil gets put in his place.
“By Jesus’ work on the cross, He satisfied the demands of God’s justice with regard to our debt, our state of enmity, and our crime.” R. C. Sproul
BIBLE READINGCONNECTIONS
I found this quote posted on my Facebook feed. Since my Daily Bible readings these days are in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah, the LORD God Almighty is listing His people’s harlotry, which creates enmity between God and man, committing the crimes of unbelief and idol worship on every hill and in every village…
Each section reveals their debauchery and causes me to pause and realize that I am no different from them, except for the sacrifice of Jesus. It’s a good chance to search my heart, with the illumination of Holy Spirit, to cleanse my ways and turn back to full devotion to the Lord.
MY PERSONAL CONNECTION
This week has been full of times of questioning and standing firm in the peace I have been given. Things in the house were at a boiling point over my planned trip to Rochester area for Elim’s Prophetic Conference, July 31, August 1 & 2. Just as with the Israelites at the time I’m reading about, I have a choice to turn to the LORD or to turn belligerently against Him, going my own way. It all gave me pause to check my motives, to let Holy Spirit search my heart and illuminate any wrong ones.
ROAD TRIP?
I realize that I cannot drive by myself in the Rochester area, so I have been asking women I know that may want to go, to accompany me. Well, after about ten women not able to go and six week’s time, I was waiting on a woman to get back to me. Only ten days before the event, I tried three more women friends; none of them were willing/able.
One friend said she could go, then chose to stay home because she’s trying to unpack from a move cross – country. The woman I’ve been waiting for finally connected with me, she can go, if nothing comes up. I declare that nothing more will thwart this planned trip.
THE DEVIL IN THE DETAILS?
Amid all this, I found out I’d booked a hotel for the wrong weekend, non-refundable, and a runaround with the app I used & the hotel. Out $210 and deemed a “No Show” for a room I didn’t realize I’d rented, I claim that God has my back and will restore what the enemy has stolen. To top things off, our KIA needs service- the day before I leave- parts will need to be ordered. John would rather I don’t take his truck OR drive the KIA if it’s not working well.
BACK TO BIBLE STUDY
Oh, the Blood of Jesus, which washes white as snow!
This winter display reminds me of The Blood covering us!
THE ARK OF THE COVENANT
I have seen several movies and expedition shows searching for the Ark of the Covenant of God. I realize most seek the earthly riches of gold and precious metals. Today, this is what I read.
Jeremiah 3:16-17 NKJV “Then it shall come to pass, when you are multiplied and increased in the land in those days,” says the LORD, “that they will say no more, ‘The ark of thecovenant of the LORD.’ It shall not come to mind, nor shall they remember it, nor shall they visit it, nor shall it be made anymore. [17] “At that time Jerusalem shall be called The Throne of the LORD, and all the nations shall be gathered to it, to the name of the LORD, to Jerusalem. No more shall they follow the dictates of their evil hearts.
The Ark of the Covenant is no longer needed. It was the place in the earthly temple where the LORD dwelt between the cherubim in the Holy of Holies, where only the High Priest could enter once a year, to plead for the LORD to forgive the people’s sins.
I’m not sure exactly when the ark ceased to be here on earth, but I have an inkling that God either took it up to heaven or destroyed it. [see REVELATION below] People will not stop looking for this valuable item, but I believe they will not find it because Jesus’ sacrifice made it obsolete.
SHADOWVS TRUETEMPLE
Hebrews 8:1-2 NKJV Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest [Jesus], who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, [2] a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.
The Ark of the Covenant was needed for the priests to minister in the earthly temple, but this temple was only a copy or a shadow of what has always been in heaven. God allowed Moses to see the heavenly temple so he could make the earthly tabernacle according to God’s pattern.
Hebrews 8:4-5 NKJV – …since there are priests who offer the gifts according to the law; 5 who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, “See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”
In Israel, the Temple Institute is working to recreate the earthly temple and begin blood sacrifices. In the hotel lobby in Samaria, I saw a display case with all the items for the temple that have been created by modern artisans. They are working to breed the red heifer for the sacrifice; I think someone has already been successful at this. BUT…
THE NEW COVENANT
Through Jesus, we have a new covenant with God, removing the need for the earthly temple and its trappings.
Hebrews 8:6-7 NKJV – But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises. A New Covenant 7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second.
REVELATION
Yes, the book of Revelation says that the temple in Jerusalem will be rebuilt, and there will be sacrifices offered as in the old days. But this will be short-lived. At the return of Jesus, every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
Revelation 11:19 NKJV Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.
TRUST & OBEY
Back to my road trip plans. I spent a couple days with my husband in a tizzy. The thought of me going on this trip- being away for our anniversary- does not sit well with him. Losing the money, needing to pay for another hotel room, the vehicle situation… it was all too much.
I laid down my desire to go to the Prophetic conference, my right to go further with my plans. I told the Lord, “I thought this desire to go came from You, but I lay it down before you.” I bless our marriage, our finances, our vehicles and all that is encompassed in this planning. I choose peace in the face of anger, fear & unrest. I chose to get on to tasks at hand instead of dissolving into a pool of tears, faith instead of the fears that are crowding around.
RESTORATION
As with the new covenant, I see the way clear to go to this conference! I have a friend going with me, a hotel booked for a reasonable price, God will take care of the vehicle decision, and my husband has settled down and blessed my trip.
To top it off, I am able to bless so many people with the bounty from our garden as I prepare for this trip!
PRAY
My dear ones, Psalm 122 tells us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. It is God’s will that none would perish, but He knows the hardness of hearts. It’s up to us to work towards His kingdom here on earth.
REMINDER &CHARGE
REMEMBER! Jesus did not come to condemn the world, and neither should we. It is not our place to point out faults, but to love as Christ loves us.
Continue to pray the will of God, speak up every chance you get… with words of peace, encouragement, and salvation. Continue to speak the truth in love, and give freely to the work of the Lord. For the time is short, and there’s much to be accomplished!
SHALOMto Jerusalemand to all Israel! And Shalom to all of you! [Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com]
Welcome to my latest musings dear readers! As I continue reading through the Psalms with my daily readings, I think the most repeated verse is “Praise the LORD” and its companion, “Praise the LORD, my soul.” Notice: NIV does not capitalize Lord or he, but I usually do.
Note:AI wants me to add more personal testimony to this, but I think that would make this into several posts! What would you like me to expound about in a future post?What do you think of the title AI generated?
Praise
First things first, let me praise the LORD a bit. Lord, You are faithful to me. My family is blessed beyond measure with children, finances, homes, vehicles and jobs. I have everything I need. I am growing in Christ Jesus and blessing others by His Spirit in me. What can you praise Him for?
Faithful
We serve a faithful God. He tells us to ask for what we need/want. I asked to go to Africa, He supplied all the needs I had for finances, health, provision and grace-twice! Seek and you will find. I sought the Lord and I found Him. I sought for what to write today and I found it. We learn to trust Him as a good Father, and He responds. How has He been faithful to respond to you?
Matthew 7:7a “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.NIV
ASK the Lord
What have you asked of the Lord? This is the thing David asked for:
Psalm 27:4 One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. NIV
I have a hope for heaven and look forward to an eternity to dwell with the LORD and gaze on His beauty. Do you? If you do, is that hope secure?
K.P. Yohannan
Metropolitan K.P. Yohannan went to be with the Lord one year ago. The prayers of his mother brought him to the place where God gripped him with a call he could not shake for the rest of his life. What did she ask of the Lord? That one of her six sons would serve the Lord. K.P. was the one God chose who was willing.
Memorial
Here I share part of the memorial to him and if you click on the link at the end, you can also hear K.P.’s tribute to his mother specifically, and to all mothers wherever they may be.
“K.P. Yohannan was more than just a man with a mission—he was a man consumed by the heart of God. He dreamed limitlessly because he knew that his God had no limits. He lived with reckless faith, believing that God would provide the entire way. And He did.” http://www.gfaworld.org
Every day, nearly 70,000 people die without ever hearing the name of Christ. K.P. Yohannan
His Consuming Vision
“…he lived every day with one consuming burden: the fact that millions were perishing without hearing the name of Jesus. This reality broke his heart, and he could not turn away from it. He believed that following the call of Christ meant more than just knowing Him—it meant laying down everything so that others could know Him, too. “
A mother is appointed and equipped by God to bring up a child He has sent to her. Natural mothers, good or bad, show a facet of God’s design for this world. Many of us need to forgive our earthly mothers; none of us is perfect!
Grace comes from mothers, grace needs to be extended to them as well. We bless Mary, the obedient mother of Jesus, we bless the faithful mother of K. P. Yohannan.
Blessing
I bless those of you who are spiritual mothers, I bless the one who is barren to rejoice as the mother of many. May your quiver be filled with souls to mother, no matter how they come into your life, no matter when.
I bless all women in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ to prosper in the things God created them for.
Encouragement
Psalm 27:13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.NIV
In conclusion: we serve a faithful God who is worthy to be praised every day. Our hope is in Him alone, the One who holds our future. Remain confident and keep your eyes open for His mighty acts to be displayed!
Here we go with a smattering of things I’ve encountered in the past week. I hope you can make sense out of what I’m putting together. I am reading several books so I can decide which to take with me to bless the people in Uganda when I go in January, I will share two of them here.
God has heard the cries of the children. All the enemy is doing is aimed at destroying the children! We need to boldly rise up and destroy all the enemy’s plans with the truth. Of course, in the power and authority of Jesus Christ, we shall overcome! Riots shall come, but don’t give them any attention and they will fall apart (most of the people involved are paid to riot).
Psalm 20:1 May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you; 2 May He send you help from the sanctuary, and strengthen you out of Zion; 3 May He remember all your offerings, and accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah
There is a banner of victory over the lives of God’s elect, declaring, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place” 2Corinthians 2:14. From: Called To Breakthrough. by Rabbi Kirt A. Schneider p. 103
Having Jewish blood myself, I enjoyed reading Kirt’s story. He’s had an amazing life so far, mixed with joy, angst, and persecution. In the last chapter of the book, he gives keys he’s found to truly living with our Messiah. I want to concentrate on these things he points out as I prepare to head to Uganda.
Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God. 8 They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.
Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
In The Giftfor all people; Thoughts on God’s Great Grace, by Max Lucado, he shares the above passage from Romans. Let’s parse this out.
Godis for us,
God isfor us,
God is for us,
God is for us…
Go ahead. Read each line, as you emphasize the word in orange.
Now, if God is for us, let’s read each of the following:
Whocanbe against us?
Who can beagainst us?
Who can be against us?
Who can be against us?
I break in here to share about The Gift for All People. You may notice this book is smaller than average. I’ve read most of it in the past hour or two. I think it may make a wonderful gift for someone on your Christmas list? Here’s the book in a nutshell, from the back cover.
“More than anything, God wants you to be with Him. The God who designed your world, the God who placed you on the planet, simply wants you home with Him, and to bring you home. He offers you a gift… the gift of eternal salvation.
My prayer is that through the pages of this book you’ll see His gift like you’ve never seen it.
If you’ve already accepted it; you’ll thank Him again. And if you’ve never accepted it, I pray you will. For it’s the gift of a lifetime. A gift for all people. – Max Lucado
SOOO… If God is for us, who can be against us? God Is… not maybe, not has been, not would be, but… Right Now, God is FOR you!
As God told Rabbi Kirt, “Ascending the day.” It’s our calling.
Let’s get out and rejoice, spreading the Glory of the Lord from soul to soul, spirit to spirit. May our days ascend in Christ, not descend into the worldly trials of the day.
I leave you with a blessing from one of Rabbi Kirt’s favorite Hebrew sayings [translated]. (As found in Psalm 84:7)“May you go from strength to strength.”
Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wildernessand rivers in the desert.
Do you see it? God is not working to bring us back to “Normal.” He is clearly doing something new! I caution you, as well as myself. Do not rejoice that justice has appeared, as Jesus said in Luke 10: 20, “… but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” Pray for those who have found disillusionment. Reconcile with those who have been against you. Forgive others so God can forgive you.
A new thing?I’m not sure I’ve ever seen clouds like this before!
When Pastor Cheryl Gmitter spoke at LiveMore women’s ministry’s fall meeting, she sent us home with the following passage from Romans 12. Let’s see what this section of Scripture will teach us today, on this side of the heated election season. How do we walk in love and…
Behave Like a Christian
Romans 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.
For the past few mornings, I have heard, “Let love be without hypocrisy.” And could not think what came next. I’ve been listening to Kevin Zadai’s videos while I trim venison for my son. Kevin repeatedly emphasizes that we need to become secure in the Father’s love so that nothing can shake us. Have you turned off the news yet?
10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;
Humanly, it is difficult to give preference to others and continue in diligence and fervency. In the Spirit, as we faithfully serve the Lord, we become fervent and diligent. We must choose to be kind and affectionate, walking in brotherly love.
12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
Are you able to rejoice in these days? Do you hope in God, have patience in the hard days? It all comes from faithful times of prayer. [of course, time in the Word goes hand in hand with prayer]
13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
This is a time to show our love for others by sharing what we have and spending time together, rejoicing and encouraging each other.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
I hit a nerve with a Christian friend on Facebook as the election rhetoric heated up. I’ve rarely had anyone take offense at something I post, so her relentless back and forth caused me to dig in and practice this verse. It was several days before we agreed to disagree. I told her that no matter what happened with elections, I still love her as a child of God.
15. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
This verse is a difficult point, but it’s a good thing to walk out over this time of upset and division.
16. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
Oh, the glory and joy that come when we heed this verse! When Jesus commanded us to love each other so our joy may be full, He meant it. What joy fills me when I’m communing with others who are full of the Spirit!
17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
This is a stern warning! The devil and his demons like it when we repay evil for evil; it puts them in a tizzy when we keep good things high in our beings. It’s a creative choice when we choose to truly live peaceably with others.
19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.
It’s a release from a heavy weight when we drop the weapon. Our Lord knows how to rightly deal with the offenders.
20 Therefore
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing, you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
In other words, many persecuted Christians have led those who persecute them to Christ! I leave you with this final directive:
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
I bless you to live in Shalom and to find the open portals that bring heaven and earth together!
What The Enemy Stole! This election is more important than we can imagine. Will we let the anti-christ have its way, or will we see a victory?
Bible Study
I want to share Psalm 12, today’s chapter in my devotional. I think it’s an excellent fit for this time in our land. We begin with idle, flattering lips.
Psalm 12:1 Help, Lord, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men. 2 They speak idly everyone with his neighbor;with flattering lips and a double heart they speak.
Just watch the news bites to see an example of this!
3 May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things, 4 Who have said, “With our tongue we will prevail; Our lips are our own; who is lord over us?”
It’s more than politics. Who is Lord? Only Elohim, the one who uses the earth for his footstool! Remember, vengeance is Mine, says the Lord.
5 “For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, Now I will arise,” says the Lord; “I will set him in the safety for which he yearns.”
God Hears
This is our faithful God. He has heard our cries, even as he heard the Israelites when they were under the oppression of the Egyptians. Think about the trafficking of women and children, of people who are homeless, and who can’t afford the rising food prices and crazy rise in the cost of living.
6 The words of the Lord are pure words, Like silver tried in a furnace of earth, Purified seven times. 7 You shall keep them, O Lord, You shall preserve them from this generation forever.
God Keeps His Word
Our God keeps his promises. Jesus, the Lamb Slain from the foundations of the earth, came to the earth at just the right time. All Father God’s promises he gave through his prophets were fulfilled in Jesus. All His promises to Israel and all our promises were have in Jesus Christ will also come to pass.
Days Of Evil
8 The wicked prowl on every side, when vileness is exalted among the sons of men.
This final verse describes what we have been living through these days. It seems like evil and vileness are all around us.
I was listening to Kevin Zadai’s Coffe Talk videos while I cleaned today. He reveals that evil has been part of life on earth since Adam and Eve were banned from God’s garden. He said Cain was used by Satan in the first murder because he thought righteous Abel was the promised Messiah. The devil does not know exactly what God is doing or His timing. So, the devil uses someone in almost every generation to try and bring the anti-Christ to power. Nero and Hitler come to mind.
Well, our generation is not exempt. This election will determine what happens next. As we who claim the name of Jesus unite in praying for God’s will to be done, things can change. Remember when I said only about 33% of professing Christians exercise their right to vote? The devil loves it when we step back and let him work!
Our Red Sea?
This could be our Red Sea moment. There is no human way possible to come through this season unscathed. If the prophets are right, we will soon see the hand of God and His glory overcome. There will be dancing in the streets and people coming to us asking how to be saved. Are we ready?
How Do I Vote?
But, “I don’t know how to vote,” or, ” I don’t know who to vote for!” Do not let fear immobilize you. Which candidates support Israel? Which ones think life is sacred? Who will support families? Who do we need to be in office at this time? Is it politics as usual, or could a businessman or woman who has experience in other countries and cultures be what we need?
More than which candidate, God is waiting for the body of Christ to come together behind the Father’s will. Pray, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you, and get out to vote!
Shalom to you, my dear readers. Until next time, may Jesus be near and msy you experience Heaven close at hand.
Psalm 122:6 tells us to “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem… May they prosper who love you.” Do you pray Shalom for Jerusalem? I do, and I realize this is the major reason that my family is prospering… not just financially, but in all ways.
This morning, my devotional chapter is Genesis 43, when Jacob finally lets his sons take his youngest son, Benjamin, to Egypt. Katie Davis Majors says this chapter marks the beginning of God’s redemption story for Judah… and ultimately, I say, us! It always overwhelms me to tears with the great love and restoration of our God displayed. I like what Katie said,
“How often we hold on to something we believe to be precious, only to realize later that letting go yielded a much better result.” -Our Faithful God Devotional p. 249
Philippians 3:7 But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. 8 … indeed, I count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord… that I may gain Christ.
Are you holding on to something God is asking you to give to him? I’m asking the Holy Spirit to show me what -and how- to give up what I’m holding on to… and what that thing is! I realize that there’s nothing in my life that didn’t come from God. I also realize from God’s Word that in Christ, all things consist, and all things come from Him and go back to Him.
What do you need to give up to go deeper in the things God has for you in Christ Jesus? I just read Eddie Hyatt’s book:
Turns out, God has kept a remnant through all generations that have experienced the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Those who moved in the Spirit, spoke in tongues, and exercised the gifts of the Spirit, such as healing, were often written out of history. Alternately, their stories were written from their detractors’ point of view. They were branded heretics, witches, or of the devil. They were put out of the church, lost family, friends…, burned at the stake, persecuted in many ways. To this day, those who won’t deny Jesus, who move in the gifts and speak in tongues, are persecuted in these ways. God doesn’t change, and neither does the devil and his tactics.
From reading Hyatt’s book, I found Phoebe Palmer. Her book is an account of Phoebe and her travels with her husband to England, Scotland, and Ireland in the mid-to-late 1850s. They were part of the revival that was happening in the U.S.A. at this time, and the churches in the British Isles begged them to come spread the fire.
Watch and pray, get deep into the Word, and release your heart and life from the dross of the world that’s built up. We need to cleanse ourselves to run freely.
I found you can get the Kindle edition of this book for $.99 or a hard copy for an exorbitant price. You know which I chose! Some of what occurred has been repeated in revivals since then, like the contemporary Toronto Blessing. The Sword of the Spirit was piercing hearts and laying many out as they wrestled with the sin in their hearts. Afternoon meetings ran into evening meetings. Bars and stores closed.
Well, I believe another heavy move of the Spirit has begun. Out of the turmoil we’re experiencing, I believe people’s hearts are going to be [and are] touched, and multitudes will come running and ask us how to find Jesus! Are we ready?
I leave you with my Scripture for 2024, which I haven’t referred to recently. Hold on to this as you walk through the coming days.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
Musings along life's journey 