What is Beauty?

Lord, I pray that You would give me the “incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious” in Your sight…1 Peter 3:4.

It is good for us to pray this, but we should also hold fast to this word as well!
In doing that we find we need courage to keep doing, keep looking into the eyes of Jesus and behold Him.  For what we look on and hold in our hearts is what we become. You like watching vampires, and the walking dead, well, you might look like one of them very soon.

For me, I like mysteries in like a "who done it" type show or movie. And there are times I have to say no to them. My husband, well, he can take them or leave them, but for me, I must really work to say No to watching those kind of things all the time!

In the passage below we look at the power of God and saving people. In this vital scene, we are reminded that we like to be on the winning side, right? We all went to high school and experienced some rejection, some deep pain maybe by someone speaking ill against you or by implying something that was wrong about you. In high school, you either fit their mold or you had to create another group of people to hang out with. But to me, school was not about the 'crowd' but about getting my diploma. It was not about how many friends I might or might not have, but that I kept a focus for that which I worked at for 12 years.  My reward was going to be my diploma!

In the case of Jesus, He was rejected by the masses. Oh surely He had people to follow Him and even had a meal served to them in the wilderness as no stores were close enough and held enough bread to be bought, so Jesus prayed and had the disciples hand out the crumbs............but boy, those many crumbs expanded to feed thousands.

What is beauty and where is it found?

Well, it is not found on T.V. or at the movies. Mother Theresa came close but still not close enough like the beauty of the Lord who I behold. 

Isaiah 53:1-3

Who has believed our report?

And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? 

2 For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant,

And as a root out of dry ground.

He has no form or comeliness;

And when we see Him,

There is no beauty that we should desire Him. 

3 He is despised and rejected by men,

A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.

And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him;

He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. NKJV

Out of a dry place Jesus appeared. He wore no robes of royalty. Had no diadems mentioned. No he was not regarded.

He walked along a river, the Jordan, and met John there to be baptized.

What now was His name? Oh yes, Jesus the Christ whose power no foe can withstand.

Tall, yes,most likely and probably had long hair! But His face held peace in it. His countenance of love spoke volumes. A reprover, yes indeed. Authentic, and attracted to saving lost souls. He was led as a lamb to the slaughter without reluctance. He did not blame others, but took the blows. Not only beaten but sent to the cross as well, and his scourging was severe. His destination a tomb or so many thought.

Psalm 38:13-14...13 But I, like a deaf man, do not hear;

And I am like a mute who does not open his mouth. 

14 Thus I am like a man who does not hear,

And in whose mouth is no response.  NKJV

Would you shrink from that? Not a smooth place of skin remained on his body. Wronged and abused, he was the oppressed, died for mankind, and then walked out of the Tomb. His triumph over death, hell and the grave came through humiliation. It was not about Him, but about the Father!

Psalm 90:14-17

14 Oh, satisfy us early with Your mercy,

That we may rejoice and be glad all our days! 

15 Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us,

The years in which we have seen evil. 

16 Let Your work appear to Your servants,

And Your glory to their children. 

17 And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us,

And establish the work of our hands for us;

Yes, establish the work of our hands. NKJV

Let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us.....a beauty that is of His divine character. It is in that beauty, that we are held in and in that we see people's hearts won for Jesus. It is in His excellence of character, that the beauty of the Lord will shine through us when we allow it to happen.  In holding Jesus before us and looking into His way, truth and life.......we constantly see the loveliness of life established before us.  In this prayer above, we see the main heartfelt desire............that they reach that which they were destined. When we choose to speak what He speaks and act as He would act, then we carry out His purpose for our lives. And it is one that comes with established favor.

Charles Spurgeon wrote this: Revenge, lust, ambition, pride and self-will are too often exalted as the god's of man's idolatry; while holiness, peace, contentment, and humility are viewed as unworthy of a serious thought.

Seriously thinking we are to come to God's thoughts and His ways....they are much higher!

When you move on down the passage you find how the rain and the snow come down from heaven....the earth is watered and begins to bud and flourish. In that which God provides we gain seed. We are to sow that seed. And in His Word that goes from our speaking His Word, we find purpose. We go out in joy and are led forth in His peace.

In doing for the Lord, minding His thoughts is foremost and then act on what you have spoken from His word. If you are the healed, then act like you are the healed. Go do something you could not do before you read this.

For keeping God before us we come to the garden He planned for us. We do not leave empty handed and have more than enough to share with others. We are elated to be going to worship God with others and look how we might pray even more for our communities and for people's lives to be touched by the beauty of the Lord.

Isaiah 55: 10-13.....10 As the rain and the snow 

come down from heaven,

and do not return to it 

without watering the earth 

and making it bud and flourish,

so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 

11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth:

It will not return to me empty,

but will accomplish what I desire 

and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. 

12 You will go out in joy 

and be led forth in peace;

the mountains and hills 

will burst into song before you,

and all the trees of the field 

will clap their hands. 

13 Instead of the thornbush will grow the pine tree,

and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.

This will be for the LORD's renown,

for an everlasting sign,

which will not be destroyed." NIV 

I leave you with this today. You have every opportunity to become poetry in God's mouth and His Words. The reality you face should be the open door where you are the inspired and the delighted. In this poem of you, God speaks loudly. You were set to live in this day and in this hour. To receive Jesus as Savior, you move to the head of the class to find out even more of what your life involves. Eternity: well, you have just begun to find out how long that really is.

Of you, a gem of beauty, oh so serene, born into the family of God. Who can fathom His goodness for you? You become the sweet to someone's bitterness. You value those who are the talented. You even explore their exquisite gems, so lovely, and you encouraged them to continue and become what God planned. Your talent took you to speak to someone's success. Your capable heart sent out words to lift and guide. And the prayers you prayed: well, they are all being answered by God one by one! You blossom in the beauty that is you. Not by being you, but Who God planned for you that looks just like you do!

What is beauty? Beauty is that which binds the God of peace, the God of healing, the God of victory to everything we find ourselves in this hour. It is found in the broken, the forgotten, the misplaced, the scattered, the wind-driven, and in the darkness of prisons. Beauty is where we take Jesus and meet others in the grace bestowed upon us. 

Walk out your door today, and find that place to take the beauty of the Lord. You might be surprised where it will take you! Amen!

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

The Glory of the Latter Rain

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44w_A_1IBgg



You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV

The TOKEN

The meaning of ......token (ˈtəʊkən)  

1. an indication related to as to a warning, or sign of something

2. a symbol or visible representation of something; indication as to an authority, a proof, or of an authenticity

For Rahab the harlot, the sign in the window represented that she or her family would not be touched when the Hebrew nation came through Jericho. A scarlet thread represented protection. It was a symbol indicating others not to touch Rahab.

Joshua 2:1-24

2:1 Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. "Go, look over the land," he said, "especially Jericho." So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there. 

2 The king of Jericho was told, "Look! Some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land." 3 So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: "Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land." 

4 But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from. 5 At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, the men left. I don't know which way they went. Go after them quickly. You may catch up with them." 6(But she had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax she had laid out on the roof.) 7 So the men set out in pursuit of the spies on the road that leads to the fords of the Jordan, and as soon as the pursuers had gone out, the gate was shut. 

8 Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof 9 and said to them, "I know that the LORD has given this land to you and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. 10 We have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed.  11 When we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone's courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. 12 Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign 13 that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and that you will save us from death." 

14 "Our lives for your lives!" the men assured her. "If you don't tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the LORD gives us the land." 

15 So she let them down by a rope through the window, for the house she lived in was part of the city wall. 16 Now she had said to them, "Go to the hills so the pursuers will not find you. Hide yourselves there three days until they return, and then go on your way." 

17 The men said to her, "This oath you made us swear will not be binding on us 18 unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and unless you have brought your father and mother, your brothers and all your family into your house. 19 If anyone goes outside your house into the street, his blood will be on his own head; we will not be responsible. As for anyone who is in the house with you, his blood will be on our head if a hand is laid on him. 20 But if you tell what we are doing, we will be released from the oath you made us swear." 

21 "Agreed," she replied. "Let it be as you say." So she sent them away and they departed. And she tied the scarlet cord in the window. 

22 When they left, they went into the hills and stayed there three days, until the pursuers had searched all along the road and returned without finding them. 23 Then the two men started back. They went down out of the hills, forded the river and came to Joshua son of Nun and told him everything that had happened to them. 24 They said to Joshua, "The LORD has surely given the whole land into our hands; all the people are melting in fear because of us."  NIV

This agreement guaranteed her safety and her families as we read in verses 17-21. Those who heard they were coming melted "with fear"!

The scarlet thread in the window was a "sign" of kindness to others. What Rahab had done for the spies who came as she hid them in safety from the men of the city would prove to be a good thing for her and her family. Now hidden, but men who would give voice to safety for her and the family by implication of the tying of the scarlet thread in the window, she gave action to her belief. Her home was located as part of the city wall, and the spies who came left by climbing down strategically and went to tell Joshua all that had occurred!

What would have been her prayer when the men left her with the instructions? What life did she have in the city now closed up, and quaking from fear of the God of the Israelites?
This woman knew that God had given them the land of where she lived. She wanted to be found of that which was of life and not over to death.
Her "harlotry" was not sin among the pagan. But encountering God and His people will cause you or I to see people who have a love and trust in God. She renounced her life of harlotry by giving hospitality to the spies. Receiving these men in "peace" she secured her pathway in peace.
Paul wrote about Rahab. And he mentions her faith that was working by love. She believed. Her peers did not believe. In the force that was coming to conquer, she had believed with her whole heart. She asked for a sign that her parents or family would not be destroyed.
As Jesus' blood was represented by the scarlet thread, the harlot had faith in action to represent life and a peace that all was going to be good for her and her family, even though the city would be destroyed.
It was written that one of the young men who she kept in safety while they spied out Jericho married her later. An attitude of gratitude marked for a relationship where her former shame was erased forever. Tying that "token" in the widow became a reward in that she later became the mother of Boaz. See in Ruth 4:21. She is also named in Matthews genealogy seen in Matthew 1:5.

Lives were forever changed!
By "the token", the sign was given to others.

Psalm 73:22-28  The Message Bible:  I was totally ignorant; a dumb ox in your very presence.

I’m still in your presence, but you’ve taken my hand. You wisely and tenderly lead me, and then you bless me.

You’re all I want in heaven! You’re all I want on earth!

 When my skin sags and my bones get brittle, God is rock-firm and faithful.

Look! Those who left you are falling apart!  Deserters, they’ll never be heard from again.

But I’m in the very presence of God------oh, how refreshing it is!

 I’ve made Lord God my home, God I’m telling the world what you do!

WILL WE be deserters, and never be heard from again? Or will we make known what God has done for us?

It is impossible to please God apart from faith. Why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that He exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek Him.

You never hear anymore about those people of Jericho. But you hear of those who "believed".

In our daily lives, we are to seek God and it can be hard sometimes, especially in poor health or having to work two jobs, or raise other people's children besides your own. But God is always here. He is always present and praying will keep us close and connected.

If you heard "terror" was on its way to your house, would you not pray? We should always delight to meet with God and allow Him to speak to us in poor health, or working two jobs or just being overwhelmed with many "kids".

If we will just pay "attention" to everything in our daily lives, we might see the "token" He Himself has sent to say, "I've heard your prayer, and I will answer!"

This week I had been going over some things my husband and I had prayed. One day I felt I needed a long nap and took the opportunity to lay down to rest. And upon rising, I addressed the same heartfelt desire for some of the prayer requests to be answered. But you cannot force God. You cannot make Him do anything. He is God! But one thing I have learned, is that if I watch for that "token" to appear, I will know what I am to do next. Well, the token came in the mail. We were not expecting anything from any ministry resources that we had given into recently. Two items were of proclamations of which we had done at church during the summer and the other two were journals. Yes, I was to keep writing and to continue to make "declarations" over our lives and our children's lives.

We declare that we are in agreement with God's promises to pour out His Spirit on our descendants and declare that we will see them grow fast, strong and to soar with eagles.

"For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring, and My blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams. Some will say, 'I belong to the LORD; others will call themselves by the name of Jacob; still; others will call themselves by the name of Jacob; still others will write on their hand, 'The LORD's,'and will take the name Israel." Isaiah 44:3–5 NIV

We declare to have new opportunities for us to see who needs that deeper touch by Jesus. Help us to bring healing to people who have been the wounded, the rejected and the broken.

"Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame." Luke 14:21 NIV

We declare that we will live our lives this year above all the negativity around us. We look for doors of opportunity and ask for eyes to see all that God our Father is doing!

"After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in Heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, 'Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.'" Revelation 4:1 NIV

 Our prayer is that people who read this will be open to the new that God is doing. We pray they see the tokens He has sent their way to say " He has never left them or forsaken them." We pray for people to be aware that God is loving them everyday and in every way as they keep their pathway in which He ordained their walk with Him. Father may we together be those who walk by faith in action and see the glory of the Lord fill this land. Amen.

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

The Glory of the Latter Rain

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44w_A_1IBgg



You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV

Peace, Grief and Snobbery?

Romans 12:9-18  Amplified Bible
[Let your] love be sincere ( a real thing); hate what is evil [loathe all ungodliness, turn in horror from wickedness]; but hold fast to that which is good.
10 Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family]. giving precedence and showing honor to one another. 11 Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord. 12 Rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer.
13 Contribute to the needs of God's people [sharing in the necessities of the saints]; pursue the practice of hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you [who are cruel in their attitude toward you];bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing other's joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing other's grief].  16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [ snobbish, high-minded, exclusive], but readily adjust yourself to [people, things] and give yourselves to humble tasks. Never overestimate yourself or be wise in your own conceits. (Proverbs 3:7) 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest and proper and noble[ aiming to be above reproach ] in the sight of everyone. (Proverbs 20:22)
18 If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

In meditating on the above scripture I thought on this one.

Isaiah 50:4 "The Lord God has given Me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary. He awakens Me morning by morning, He awakens My ear to hear as the learned. NKJV
weary: O.T.3287...ye'eph (yaw-afe') from O.T, 3286...fatigued, the exhausted

Like Isaiah we too can speak a word in season to him who is the weary, the exhausted.
Being reminded to love others sincerely, ( a real thing) then we are commanded to loathe all ungodliness, turn in horror from wickedness, but hold fast to that which is good.
Our character is one that is never lagging in zeal. But that zeal is in the Lord and not in confusion. Anything against God and His Word is of wickedness and it is confusion. We are to be bright with the light of His Word bearing witness that we are His own. Rejoicing in that hope, we are steadfast in speaking and adhering to His words of truth.
We look for those who might need a hand up. We are not to be snobbish in regard to our neighbor's. Yet today, that appears to be happening world wide.

We are told in verse 16 of Romans 12 to live in harmony with one another.


Proverbs 3:13-18
13 Happy is the man who finds wisdom,
And the man who gains understanding;
14 For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver,
And her gain than fine gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies,
And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her.
16 Length of days is in her right hand,
In her left hand riches and honor.
17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness,
And all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her,
And happy are all who retain her. NKJV

We are told that God's wisdom brings happiness. It is in His wisdom that we find His peace. That pathway is designed in His peace that brings us to a pleasant  life. It is a place where brothers live together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)

Today is the time to rise and speak to others in boldness of God's word in us. With no masks and no hidden agendas, just the bottom line given that " people need Jesus"!

In Proverbs 10:10  Amplified Bible: He who winks with the eye [craftily and with malice] causes sorrow; the foolish of lips will fall headlong but he who boldly reproves makes peace. 

 To boldly reprove, is one who speaks with lips of truth, they are the wise who put into practice the knowledge gained from the word of God. There are no tricks and no excuses!

ONE who reproves will be one who lives his life in that which represents God, His Word, and God in his deed. 

The word "reprove" is the Greek word "elegcho".

This word means to expose or to convict, such as to convict someone of a crime or of a sin. This is seen as in a court of law. The legal proceedings in which a person is examined and cross examined by questions. 

This word elegcho describes the work done by the Holy Spirit of God. He convicts of sin. It is the Holy Spirit who will reveal the heart.

Giving God's word and standing on His word will reprove others. When we stand for truth, we sow truth into other people's lives.

Have you ever seen people truly flock to hear the word of God and others seem to stand far off or even outside of where the word of God is given? These are those who by the Holy Spirit have either become offended or just confused by the teaching of God's word, yet God's word will always prevail to where it is sent. This reproving by the Holy Spirit is of the positive nature. It helps someone to truly see they need a Savior, and convinces them of seeing it from God's perspective.

So if you come into church or even your place of work and people seem at odds, try loving them with a sincere heart that desires their good. Give them life with a smile on your face and a glow that comes from heaven. May God shine on you and present you before those who need God. And may you be bold and open with the testimony of Jesus Christ. Bring a heart felt peace into their lives and allow them to see Jesus operate through you. It is never too late to give others the Lord Jesus Christ.

And the God of peace will guard your heart and mind. Acknowledge the Holy Spirit today and allow Him free reign in and through you to others. Whether it is a "crock pot style" meeting or just a few people you work with, know God is on your side. He will never leave you or forsake you and will ultimately give you what you are to speak in that very hour. (Luke 12:12)

When we spend time with the Word and become convinced, that truth is solid in our heart. The power of the Holy Spirit has us tuned into to hearing His voice and His plan. God did not give us fear, nor did he desire us to quake at evil. We are to know His word, speak with joy of the Spirit and walk daily in that righteousness. Ask the Lord to show you any lie of the enemy you may face today. Ask Him to open your eyes to see clearly so that you too might reveal truth to others. For giving them Jesus is honoring them and yourself. It is in that length of integrity that we deal on God's terms and not our own.

Go now, love your neighbor as yourself and extend life to them by giving them scripture from His holy word. You will truly be set free to be all that He desires for you to be in HIM! Amen.

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

The Glory of the Latter Rain

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44w_A_1IBgg



You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV

Diamonds are Forever or How About Amethyst

Amethyst

Isaiah 54:9-17
9 For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee.

10 For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.

11 O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.

12 And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of pleasant stones.

13 And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.

14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee.

15 Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.

16 Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy.

17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.  KJV

Our being established in righteousness looks like a place of peace for our children. It is far from oppression with no "fear" in sight. Terror does not come near us for any who join as an assembly against the righteous will fall for our sake.
Anyone afflicted right now? Anyone not comforted? Being established in Jesus, we conform to Him and bear His image. It is in holiness, and being obedient to God that we abide in Him. It is clinging to every word He has spoken to us.

He said" I will lay your stones with colorful gems: foundations with sapphires; pinnacles of rubies, your gates of crystal; walls of precious stones."
Beautiful!

Volcanic rock is where the "diamond" is found. The element is the simplest in composition and is known as carbon. What channels beneath the earth, this specific rock must travel, to get to the surface and be found "by man" is one that very few diamonds come through the obstacle course of hazards.

The quality goes in the stone to give that special cut, clarity, how many carats (?) and yes the color that dictates it's very price.

God must see the advantage to decorating with the beautiful stones. And He has given it in His word.

Malachi 3:16-18

16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.

17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.

18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.  KJV

Saw a story line recently on diamonds. And the man who had them did not want them cut. He wanted to retain them "for awhile" in their present condition straight from the depths of the earth. Those small milky stones made a horrific trip to be seen by man and picked up by man.

 To me, they appeared as just many pieces of dull rock. They appeared with a slight milky color, but I wondered what the brilliance would be for each one he held, when they would actually be cut for what they were purposed.

Yes, that shape, the clarity of color with no flaws, formed to a shape and then polished takes some time and skill to accomplish. In the hands of the Father, we start out as the stone from which was written about, really no shape or form. He skillfully shapes us by His word, produces the fire to remove the refuse and the polish us up to shine. That transformation begins with our hearts kneeling before Him. And each day after presents us the opportunity to stay committed to His hands and experience the life to come being polished for His glory.

Being the jewels in His hands is important indeed!

Will we willingly submit to Him and to His plan to become that light to shine for all to see?

Will we fall to our knees with a grateful heart and receive His words that will continually build us and grow us into that He purposed?

What is your status? Is there a jewel in you? Yes, of course there is! No one has been left out. All are welcome to come into His kingdom, to live by faith, have Jesus as Savior and Lord, and expect blessings daily from Him.

Philippians 1:6

6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: KJV

Philippians 3:20-21

20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.  KJV

Revelation 21:15-21

15 The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. 16 The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. 17 He measured its wall and it was 144 cubits thick, by man's measurement, which the angel was using. 18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst.  21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass. NIV

In the new Jerusalem, this city measures out to be a great city of great size. The wall was of jasper, the city of pure gold. The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was of jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony and the fourth is emerald.

But what captures my attention every time I read this: is of the 12 gates, each is of a single pearl. Now that is a big "pearl" sized up to be use as the gate. Then the street, the great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass.

Beautiful!

I believe God wants us to be comfortable with "jewels". For He planned for us to live in a jeweled city, and to have that very status of the jewels that serves God Himself.

Philippians 3:20 in the Amplified states this: But we are citizens of the state (commonwealth, homeland) which is in heaven, and from it also we earnestly and patiently await [the coming of] the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) as Savior, 21 Who will "transform and fashion anew the body of our humiliation to conform to and be like the body of His glory and majesty, by exerting that power which enables Him even to subject everything to Himself.

Everyone who reads this needs to prepare to receive that "new body" when Jesus returns for us. The body we have will be replaced. And the new one will match our surroundings. It is of the glorious in Christ Jesus. The transformation of course will be supernatural when Jesus returns for His body the church. Being clothed in that glorious state will carry us forward with that which God had begun beforehand. It is the overcoming of this world and a holding on by faith for the new to come. For so many us, a diamond would not define who we are or what we look like right now. But staying with God and knowing Him as Jesus did, we obtain that which is given us by His love and mercy. We would do well to observe HIM and obey HIM!

Rejoice in Him, be glad for our redemption draws near.

I will be the one of about 29 or so years, dark brown hair and the glow of God's glory. How about you? It is never too late to start growing and embrace everything God has for you. Embrace true humility in Him, and conquer daily the works of the flesh, over come by the Blood of Jesus and the word of your testimony of what God your Father has done for you.

It is not over, abide in Him............and shine for His glory!

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

Waiting On The Master: The Reward of Service

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaNOEL3e88Q

You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV

To the Very End

Psalm 119:139

139 My zeal has consumed me,  Because my adversaries have forgotten Your words.  NASU

Psalm 119:139

139 My zeal wears me out, for my enemies ignore your words.  NIV

Meaning of forgotten: consigned to oblivion, out of mind

Meaning of ignore: refuse to take notice of or acknowledge; disregard intentionally; failing to consider something significant; giving no attention to

Acts 28:23 - 31

23 They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: "The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet:

26 "'Go to this people and say, "You will be ever hearing but never understanding;

you will be ever seeing but never perceiving."

27 For this people's heart has become calloused;

they hardly hear with their ears,

and they have closed their eyes.

Otherwise they might see with their eyes,

hear with their ears,

understand with their hearts

and turn, and I would heal them.' 

28 "Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!" 

30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. NIV

Paul worked at giving truth to those who came to see him. He was bold and without any hindrance as he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. His relationship with the Lord shined through him.

In the text above Paul stayed in his own rented house and would welcome those who came to him.

In that area and time, Paul was in that city of Rome. His life would end. It all started with a fire of great magnitude. It occurred in the market place near the Circus Maximus. In this fire, half of the city of Rome was destroyed. The year: 64 AD. It was a hot summer that year, and the events of the day is given.

It was the Roman historian Tacitus who recorded such an event of great magnitude. Chaos had ensued very quickly…..

"First, the fire swept violently over the level spaces. Then it climbed the hills-but returned to ravage the lower ground again. It outstripped every counter-measure. . . Terrified, shrieking women, helpless old and young, people intent on their own safety, people unselfishly supporting invalids or waiting for them, fugitives and lingerers alike--all heightened the confusion."

The great fire blazed out of control! And those concerned citizens tried every measure, every possible way to put out the flames. But to no avail, they lost the battle. Also some of the mob had lit torches and threw them into the flames to feed the fire. Tacitus made an interesting note about these arsonists who had claimed "they acted under orders. Perhaps they had ... or they may just have wanted to plunder unhampered."

Another teaching states that it was actually Nero who started the fire.

Either way, Nero had decided to place blame on scapegoats. The dangerous rumor was floating about naming him as the one who started the fire. It was rumored that he ordered the fire to vandalize the capital city and to free up some areas for his ideas and plan for buildings for his name. And for a couple of years, he did see to taking advantage of the situation. He began the building of his very own Golden house.

Yes, as it turned out someone had to be blamed for this atrocity. And it was Christians who would be persecuted. After the fire, another fire of persecution raged. It came from every direction. Anyone claiming to be a Christian….. was committing a crime. Although Nero would die shortly, that persecution would continue for almost three full centuries.

The fire that burned at that time had left many people homeless. It was noted that the fire burned for nine days. And of that great city of fourteen regions (on how many hills) it was only four regions that remained after the devastating fire.

It was at this time, Paul died. Yes, he was a Christian! Yes, he preached the Gospel. He gave many the word of the kingdom of God and how salvation was through Jesus, God’s own Son.

Acts 28:27

Otherwise they might see with their eyes,  hear with their ears,

understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' 

Their ears…ous…((ooce) to hear both physically and mentally

Understand: uniemi (soon-ee'-ay-mee); from NT:4862 and hiemi (to send); to put together, i.e. (mentally) to comprehend; by implication, to act piously: KJV - consider, understand, be wise.

Yes, Paul was blamed for something he had not done. He continued even though under guard, and his life would end, but he was giving his all for God’s kingdom, and God’s Son.

The writer of Psalm 119 spoke how he grew weary giving people God’s Word. He said they had forgotten him. And reading the meanings of forgotten, what was spoken was consigned to oblivion. And from the meaning of ignore, one simply refused to take notice, disregarding intentionally……failing to see the “significant”, given not attention to.

Things are always going on around us. Like in Paul’s time, someone started a great fire. The blame, it was directed toward someone who did not deserve it, yet it happened. People are all connected in some way or form. You cannot escape people! One thing is important, and like Paul we would do well to observe and obey God. We should keep going with intent of heart to tell others of Jesus.

Something may or may not come your way. But someone you know will be affected by chaos started by others. Our stance should be on the Word of God and hold unswervingly to truth.

John 3:1-3

3:1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him."

3 In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." NIV

Ah yes, ugly lies are rampant, but those who sought Jesus, like Nicodemus, came at night. And this man, the member of the Jewish ruling council, knew Jesus to be a teacher sent from God. And he noted God was with HIM!

May we be found by those who truly seek truth, knowing the Lord Jesus Christ, and understand that we must speak and give that for which Paul was well noted. He gave his all for the kingdom of God, and gave his life to the end. Are we willing to hear, and to give our lives as well………………to the very end?
Revelation 2:26.....And he who overcomes (is victorious) and who obeys My commands to the [very] end [doing the works that please Me], I will give him authority and power over the nations;27 And he shall rule them with a sceptre (rod) of iron; as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, and [his power over them shall be] like that which I Myself have received from My Father. (Psalm 2:8-9)

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

Waiting On The Master: The Reward of Service

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaNOEL3e88Q

You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV

What Do We Tell Our Children

In mainstream America, the day after the election, I heard this word of "what do we tell our children".
Knowing in elections, there is a winner and there is a loser and that is a foremost demonstration of a voting nation, only one will be victorious.
Hopefully we tell our children, and possibly their children is that we voted biblical principles. Hopefully we demonstrate by holding our tongues and finding out what issues the candidate holds true. It is what fills their heart and what they seek in their purpose for running a certain position.  The word over the news today, the day after the election was this:"that a miracle" had occurred. 
I agree wholeheartedly that a miracle occurred. I believe God has shown that the great "I AM" is still looking over America and that the nation will be all that HE planned for her to become. People prayed!


What do we tell our children? Well if we know Jesus, God has a plan for our good and not for evil to give us a hope in our final outcome.

1 Timothy 2:1-7
2:1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, 7 for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle--I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying--a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.  NKJV


1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
4:1 Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God; 2 for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus. 3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, 5 not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6 that no one should take advantage of and defraud his brother in this matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also forewarned you and testified. 7 For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness. 8 Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit.   NKJV

In this example of truth, we pray! Prayer should be ongoing for this nation we call America. It is not about a gender thing, a color thing but it is about the biblical principles God established and for which this nation was born. If we truly believe the word of God and actually live by it, then God's principles are vital and on the forefront. We were told in 1 Timothy 2 to pray. That in supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving thanks be made for all men. It is for all men! That in our walk with God, we are to please God. And it is by our faith in God that we please Him. That when we pray and believe the "the miraculous" happens! AMEN!
Hopefully you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior. And within that we are held by truth of God, held by His wisdom and to pray. We are to possess this vessel in sanctification and honor. Not in passion of lust to hurt others, not defraud or even lie about others. Not to complain, but pray.
We have a new president, as one in authority, we pray for him that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. God desires us all to know truth. It is God who planned that we would exist in this day and time, to be saved, adhere to His principles and line up with Him.

Before we speak to our children, my hope would be that we go to God and thank Him for someone who truly put down the plan he purposed as a candidate for the major "office "which was from God. That this man is sent into chaos. If we really stand together, then we pray. If we really stand together, we seek to know God's plans for the days and months ahead. Those with God will not be surprised, for they will know by prayer and His Word that He is very present in the "new administration" for this country.
No one is perfect, I notice that everyday as I peer in the mirror. But I know God and I know His Word works when we apply it to our lives and pray.

As for God, His way is perfect! The Word of the Lord is tested and tried; he is a shield to all those who take refuge and put their trust in Him! Our words from our mouths and the mediation of our hearts should be acceptable in His sight, Who is our firm impenetrable and rock our redeemer. If we really know Him, then we know it is His word that has revived us and given us this day to be thankful in. As His word is forever settled in heaven, may we hold that light to our feet and walk the path set before us. It is walking holy before Him.
It is His righteous decrees that endures forever. and as we hold Him up in praise and worship, we are to ask Him to guard our mouths. In that of watching our mouths, that guard is given to hold us in His truth and wisdom so that we can and should exhort another to see Jesus,

It is God who saw us in our mother's womb. He knew her and knew our father. He knew what life we would have. And within that He presented His Son as Savior to redeem us and to deliver us to lead lives, not as captives to a color thing, a gender thing, but to hold tight to the God thing, God's will which is His word! It is God Who gives us the ability to survive and to walk in good times and in bad times. He lifts our heads when we fall. He hears our prayers and He causes us to rest in Him that is of a sweet slumber.

Psalm 3:3-8

3 But You, O LORD, are a shield for me,

My glory and the One who lifts up my head. 

4 I cried to the LORD with my voice,

And He heard me from His holy hill.

Selah 

5 I lay down and slept;

I awoke, for the LORD sustained me. 

6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people 

Who have set themselves against me all around. 

7 Arise, O LORD;

Save me, O my God!

For You have struck all my enemies on the cheekbone;

You have broken the teeth of the ungodly. 

8 Salvation belongs to the LORD.

Your blessing is upon Your people. NKJV

CHANGE is needed and is a good thing! We are to hear God and obey Him. We are to pray for all citizens of this country, no matter their color or gender. In all things we are to glorify God and exclaim His goodness to others.

Today, let's ask God to help us draw thanksgiving forth from our inner resources to give thanks to Him and give thanks for this nation. Let's seek Him in prayer, affirm that He is Lord over our lives and our childrens, and speak that our trust is in Him. Let' s remember today as we pray that His goodness and His mercy is everlasting. Despite any bruising of egos, despite any hurts, God is for us. Run to the SHELTER of your soul. Cry out if you are distressed, and as you come near to God, He will come near to you. 

Find peace in Him and then tell your children, God is here. Immanuel is with us. And that He bequeathed  to us His peace. He is our refuge in time of trouble, upheaval and yes in change.

Then speak to your children, and speak His goodness. Tell them it is good to live in this nation where people can vote. Tell them we were established on God's principles and they are to be active in their hearts and by their faith. And as you speak, may life spring forth for the good for your children and your grand-children. Tell them that you believe you live in peaceable habitation, safe dwellings and in quiet resting places. In graciousness, give them the Word of God that will bring stability to them. Help them to be strengthened ---every day! Help them to stay focused on their studies at school and at church. Help them to concentrate on the family life within the home. And pray together.

Father God, we know that we are to be responsible leaders within our homes and our communities. We know that You have thoughts and plans for us, those plans for good and not evil to give us a hope. Help us to overcome weariness of the day and hour of which we live. We desire Father to be reinforced in YOU. Help us to speak words that heal and not wound. Father, help us to speak good and to not fear man. You are our light and our salvation.  We desire to conform to Your will and order. We shall be far from the thought of oppression or destruction. In this day and in this hour, we pray and confess that we shall see those who have never heard of Jesus. In this day and in this hour, we stand strong in You and we will speak that eyes be opened to see life in Jesus and that we would be bold to speak in His name. We pray the upright shall in our government. YOUR Word declares that blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. (Psalm 33:12)

We declare with our mouths that Your people dwell safely in this land, and that they prosper abundantly. We confess to be more than conquerors. The heart of the king (our new president) is in the hand of the Lord and You God turn it whichever way You desire. We believe our leader of this nation is in Your hand and that his decisions are divinely directed of the Lord. The gospel of the Good news is published in our land. Thank Your Lord for this land and the leaders You have given to us . May we pray regularly and not lose heart in Jesus' name. Amen

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

Waiting On The Master: The Reward of Service

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaNOEL3e88Q

You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV

What? Another Poop Deposit

Saw this interesting video the other night about hummingbirds as we were interested in how and where they place their nests. We see many hummingbirds in this area, and the feeder is always very low or out of the nectar.
In this video we saw, the nest was only about the size of your 1/2 (cup) measuring tool for the dry items.
The woman recording the episode showed two newly living babies. They were not really anything to look at, but their size was so awesome. And she would record as much as she could each day on the growth of the two hummingbirds. As they began to grow, they could move but with no room other than the ledge of the the tiny nest, they each took a turn to move into the others former position. She showed their eating habits. There was also the moments they would excrete or make their poop deposit on the side of the nest but not in it. Seriously they had really no room at all to fit comfortably. Then as quickly as the black colored pebble looking object left their body from the rear, there  was a shot of excrement from their mouth. Not sure what that was all about, but did not think they were throwing up.
After the 24 days, one ventures to stand on the edge of the tiny nest, stretches his wings and flaps violently a couple times for the test, and swoosh he is off on his first adventure. She takes shots of him down in a flower bed, and then over to another higher place within just a few feet, then after another moment, he flies off.
The woman recording returns to the nest to watch and record the other little bird. Although this one is bigger in size, he seems more nervous about moving out of that tiny sanctuary. After several hours and high winds, he makes his attempt, and then flies away.
If you have seen one of those little birds, you can certainly appreciate the beauty that God captured in that little bird. The colors of their bodies are awesome. We have three different families of them here in this area. One we call "Green", one is "Red", and the other well, we mention that "Yellow" has returned. Each of them is a different size indeed!
My husband captured this little fellow with his camera here on this page about a week ago.

When we had first tuned in to the video, the "poop deposit" was the first thing I noticed. I was trying to figure out what it was and how it laid on the outside of the tiny nest. I could not imagine putting berries into their nest making, but was surprised when she had videoed the event happening.


The devil is always trying to make a "poop deposit" into their our lives. He surely thinks if we compromise, he will win. And I know in his thinking, he believes if he can get everyone to fall like he did, then God may perhaps change His mind and let the devil be.
Ah, but that is not what we read in the book of Revelation.



Colossians 2:18-23
18 Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. 20 Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations-- 21 Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle," 22 which all concern things which perish with the using--according to the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.  NKJV


Not holding fast to the Head, JESUS, from whom the whole body, nourished and knitted together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God.

Therefore if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world," why"........as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations-- 21 Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle," 22 which all concern things which perish with the using--according to the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.  NKJV



Staying in that place "connected" to God, we grow with increase. We do not diminish when we stay with God!

In self-righteousness, one is bent toward the self-imposed religion (their own) they have a false humility and neglect the body ( the body of believer's) and are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.

They can horde things. "Oh, I might need that for me."

But in receiving Jesus and standing with Him, we are the delivered from any yoke of bondage. We became free in Jesus. So any appointment from man will not stand, and is contrary to what God has purposed. Standing firm is adhering to him, and to trust in His Words of wisdom, not the wisdom of this world.

The true wisdom of Him always keeps to that given in the gospels. And it is the entire body subject to Jesus Christ.

From verse 23, there is no honor to satisfying the flesh creature. The only thing "the world" gives is to honor the flesh or to man's own pride.
It is seen from the Philip's translation that it is an asceticism practice. The word "asceticism is from the Greek...as to training or exercise in a life style. It also looks like the absence of worldly pleasures, seeking a spiritual one.
One teaching is:
They will go so far as to move into what many know as a "frugal lifestyle". And they turn to time concentrating on religion or spiritual matters. Some will stay in the "humble abode" to show they are frugal, but all the while carry on taking many things they love to their bosom. It is like for those who desire to sleep on a bed of nails. They are punishing themselves, because they know not God. For if they knew Him, they would know His love!

I always hear today, for those to be themselves! Yikes! If they are doing it in themselves. For without God we can do nothing. It is an everyday, moving forward with God and not a one time a week thing.
Heard this testimony of man ( a pastor ) today originally from Australia who was raised in church from an early age. His relatives and grandparents were as missionaries and pastors. He went through all the things he needed to lead others. And he said one day, after being married for a short time, he had gotten upset with his wife, in their bedroom, he literally picked her straight up with his hands and told her that she made him angry and then out of anger, he tossed her to the bed. Even while this was going on, he told God in the same breath how she had angered him. Yet, God told him, she did not give you the anger, you have anger in your heart. The man asked his wife for forgiveness and asked God to show him where he held anger in his heart. Today he lives in South America today. He has a church of 35 thousand people. And he has influence with many people of many nationalities.
Although raised in a Christian home, his heart issues had not been dealt with. And in some short time he learned and gained God's wisdom on that "anger" issue.
Wisdom of the world is false. It is not profitable to anyone or anything!
But being tuned into God and speaking His words into our lives, we gain His wisdom and not the world's. wisdom. If we refuse God and His teachings, then we choose to live in fantasy land. In that place there would be not brightness as the noonday. We are to go from glory to glory not from one tiny candle light to another similar light of same caliber. To me, that would be like those glow "Stick" lights on wrist bands or necklaces. They shine really pretty for a short while and then they fade away.
If we are chained into certain behavior, then we are choosing a life of the absurdity and many times in that of cruelty to others. God is mercy. His mercies are new everyday, but are we too busy to glean from those treasures He has for us to learn from and really live?

So living in Fantasy Land, one will have poop deposits within their own "land". Where they abide in themselves and call it religion, will be just that, "another religion" based on me, myself and I.
But to those who hear God's call, will certainly call others what God calls them. When applying God and His Word to our lives, He is our Shield. He is life and abundance. And it is that anointing to which we fulfill what He has asked us to do in this life right now. And if they be the "Teacher", the Deacon". "Evangelist" they will operate in that gifting like in the book of Acts! They flourish in that gifting God has placed in them. And to do anything else is contrary to what God purposed.

Our grand-daughter spent some time with us over the weekend. And she was helping to make some Oatmeal Scotchies. And when mixing the "sugars" together and adding the eggs, she mentioned she had the fruit of patience. So true when we abide in Jesus and His words. ( she is memorizing scripture and is doing really well)

Galatians 5:16-26
16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. NKJV

Jesus walked in the Spirit and did not fullfil the lust of the flesh. Being faithful is important to fulfilling what God has asked you or I to do for His kingdom. In His goodness, we remain in His peace, and we see where we need the extra work in our lives. It is to be a love walk with others. BUT like the passage reveals, those with the workings of the flesh toward sorcery, hatred, contentions and jealousies will create a provoking atmosphere. Those who "hate" never leave. They stay. They like to complain, but explain it away. They can become critical especially of those younger ones. They are intent of keeping their ground although God is not there with them. With contempt for others, they are allowing the devil to help them make another "poop deposit" in their land.

In the cities today, there are many crises going on. There are the homeless, those with mental issues walking the streets, and the young cast away like garbage. 
Nurturing is an important part of people growing up. In that respect, we are all growing, and are suppose to be changing from glory to glory. Everyone needs Jesus to live and flourish!

2 Corinthians 3:10-18

10 For even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels. 11 For if what is passing away was glorious, what remains is much more glorious. 12 Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech-- 13 unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away. 14 But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ. 15 But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. 16 Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.  NKJV

Our liberty is in Jesus and through Jesus. It is not in Facebook or in man.

For our grand-daughter, she has so grown in the Lord to be the accomplished by the Holy Spirit. She is well on her way to mirroring the glory of the Lord as she is being transformed into that glory by the Spirit of the Lord. If we do not allow the Holy Spirit in, and ask for help in heart issues, then we live in fantasy land. Being nurtured by God Himself will bring a life of increase.

If it is in preaching, there is increase. If it is in writing, there should be increase. If in teaching others, it is seen as to be increasing in God. If you are challenged in a new job, God will increase you when you add Him to your day. If you are making a move, make sure God is in the equation of your life.
From Colossians 2:19...we are being nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God.
If it is not increasing, move. If  you see you are in a place that is diminishing, that is not of God. For it is the devil who came to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus came to give us life in abundance. There is no subtraction in HIS kingdom!

Move out of "poop deposit" land...heed God's wisdom and His warnings. If you are just looking for comfortable, "good luck in fantasy land" but if you really want to live as Jesus did, you will have ups and downs, but always rise in His strength, taking hold of His life to live for His kingdom that spells out victory every time. It is not over. but Jesus is returning soon. Let's keep looking up, and flourish in God. Amen.

Notice: 

The Voice of Prayer  has a new teaching published:

Waiting On The Master: The Reward of Service

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaNOEL3e88Q

You can also visit my Youtube channel The Voice of Prayer for more teaching at  http://bit.ly/1tNyBhV