Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Focus on Jesus

“Jesus took... Peter, James and John... up a high mountain.”

Matthew 17:1 [NIV]

Notice three things:

  1. Not everybody gets to go up the mountain. Jesus picked the three who went. He didn’t take everybody so nobody would feel slighted. And He didn’t explain or apologies to the other disciples who stayed at ground level.

    God loves us all equally but He doesn’t give us all the same assignment or experiences with Him. God makes the call, not us, so trust Him. He knows what He’s doing.
  2. Those who go up the mountain aren’t necessarily wiser or more Spiritual. After seeing Jesus enveloped in the glow of God’s glory, Peter blurted out, “Let’s build three tabernacles and stay here” (See Matthew 17:4). Peter was sincere, but he was sincerely wrong.

    Resist the temptation to speak by waiting to hear what God has to say, or to build your ministry around an experience you’ve had with God that’s designed to equip you personally rather than become the theme and emphasis of your life.
  3. God’s plan is to feature Jesus, not you. And it’s a lesson we keep having to learn over and over. “While He was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, ’This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!’...When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus” (Matthew 17:5-8 NIV).

    The greatest challenge in your life is getting to the place where you focus on “no one except Jesus”. The most important relationship you have is with Him. The only plan that will work out right is the one He gives you. And the power needed to fulfill that plan comes from Him alone.

Pastor Ng Francis
www.fnministries.com

We met Pastor Francis in the early 1990’s while living in Singapore. He is a sincere brother in Christ who loves the Lord and has developed into a powerhouse for the saints in Asia.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Suicide AIN’T Painless

With the economy in the worst condition since the 1930’s, people have been killing themselves. Even worst, and as a first, some have murdered their spouse and children before taking their own life. Why? Because of fear of the consequences of the economic downturn. Hey folks, fear is a killer! Jesus Himself said so:

Men swooning away or expiring with fear and dread and apprehension and expectation of the things that are coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken and caused to totter.

Luke 21:26 [AMP]

But it is one thing for people to be so afraid that they faint or drop dead... and another to take a gun, knife, or bottle of pills and do the job yourself. Or, even worse... to do harm to innocent family members. The sad truth is that satan is trying to draw souls into hell by causing them to deny the salvation freely offered by Jesus and choosing to handle their problems themselves.

As a result of all of this insanity, we have recorded a 30+ minute teaching on CD to help those who are perplexed by the events happening in our world. This resource is not going to be sold in our on-line store. It is available for free as group of download files!

Want to learn how to get a copy?

You can download “Never Give Up... Never Surrender” for free by going to our free download site, http://link2power.org! The teaching presents each topic in our familiar Seven Minutes of Wisdom format.

If you have a friend or a family member who is going through some difficulty because of the pressures of this life and the world system that is turning upside down on itself, you can help by having them slam these teachings into their iPod or MP3 player. They will receive instant encouragement.

Suicide is not the answer... it only opens the door for problems your loved ones will spend their lives dealing with... and if you don’t know Christ as your Savior, you will have an eternity to deal with it!

Download this teaching at http://link2power.org/audioteaching/Never_Give_Up_Never_Surrender/ and may it be a blessing to you and to others.

Faith and Works

Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. The LORD was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. The LORD said, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, from man to animals to creeping things and to birds of the sky; for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.

Genesis 6:5-8 [NASU]

[But Noah found favor (grace)]

Looking at Noah’s ancestors, we are inclined to believe Noah was called of God early in life; initiated into the worship of his Creator; delighted in His word and was dedicated to His service. We further believe his mind was set and his ears attentive to the voice of the Lord, not being influenced by the nay sayers, the religious, the self righteous, and never tossed about by “every wind of doctrine,” or lured by lust into the things of the world. Noah had a constant and certain confidence and trust in God’s love and in His ability and power to order and sustain all things. Therefore in the midst of a wicked and perverse generation Noah had “set his mind” to walk with the One who had called him to righteousness, hence he found grace in the “eyes of the Lord” and over came the world through faith (1st John 5:4).

By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.

Hebrews 11:7 [NASU]

Because of God’s love for mankind, He had mercy; and mercy brought forth the favor of God to warn Noah about the impending flood that would destroy all flesh. Noah, not out of fear of death, but out of fear (reverence) of God, never doubting, obeyed Him in all that He commanded him to do.

By grace through faith Noah became the heir of righteousness. But what is faith? Now I know most of you will quote Hebrews 11:1 and say to me, that is faith; but what constitutes faith? And, where does one get faith? As we examine the Scriptures we find that God spoke with Noah warning him of things to come. Now Noah, having a loving, trusting relationship with God, believed God and began to do the things God commanded him to do (Genesis 6:22).

Now let us imagine if Noah had heard God but did not do the things God commanded him to do in a timely manner. I highly suspect that Noah would have perished with the rest of the world. Although it does not seem possible to love God apart from obedience, nevertheless we conclude that just loving, hearing and believing God does not totally constitute faith. Faith must include obedience!! Is not obedience an expression of love for God? But isn’t obedience works? Yes, of course it is. But works alone did not justify Noah; his love, believing and obedience to the words spoken to him by God---faith, justified him.

And then there is Abraham, living in Mesopotamia in his father’s house serving other gods (Joshua 24:2) and God spoke to him (Acts 7:2). Unlike Noah, Abraham was not in a relationship with God when He called him. Because of God’s love for mankind He had mercy and choose Abraham to be a father of faith. When God spoke to Abraham, His word made alive the ears of Abraham and caused him to hear; effecting faith in him (Romans 10:17). When Abraham heard God, he believed; this was God’s gracious gift to Abraham.

Again let us just imagine if Abraham had heard God and believed but said to God, “I believe you God but I think I will stay here in Ur.” Would Abraham have received the blessings that God promised Him? Of course not!! He had to obey God’s commands. Then we conclude from the Scriptures that Abraham heard God, believed, and because God first loved him, he loved God in returned and expressed that love through obedience; thus his faith was perfected (James 2:22).

By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was going.

Hebrews 11:8 [NASU]

The Holy Scriptures teach us that both Noah and Abraham were men of faith. Now for the answer to our question, we examine what these two men have in common. Both were chosen of God; heard, believed, and obeyed Him. And because God first loved them, they both loved God; thus effecting faith in their hearts. Therefore we conclude that the foundation of faith is the love of God in the heart of man, the corner stone is the word of God believed, and the completion of faith is obedience. Now we have the answer to what constitutes or establishes faith: hearing God (Romans 10:17), believing and obeying Him from a heart of love.

Jesus said,

If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

John 14:15 [NASU]

Would not keeping our Lord’s commandments be works of faith through love? Sure, I agree, it is by grace through faith that a person is saved and not of works, but isn’t God’s favor granted to those who when God calls, motivated by love, they obey Him? Noah and Abraham both were justified and saved by grace through their obedience to God’s purpose in calling them.

Many have written that the Apostles Paul and James were in disagreement concerning works. I contend that both Apostles were taught and led by the same Spirit and they did not disagree on anything. Men, trying to understand God’s Holy word by the intellect, have grossly misunderstood the messages of these two men.

Paul states that works does not justify man; and he of course is right. Now we confess and agree with Paul, there is no way man can work his way into salvation by obedience to the Law or any other works of the flesh; it is by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that one is saved. And the Apostle James says that works justifies man (James 2:21), and of course he is right also. Without contradiction we agree with James because we understand the messages of these two men.

The Apostle Paul is speaking of works apart from hearing, believing and loving God. He is speaking of men who know of God and His promises but are trying to work out their salvation by their own methods rather than following God’s plan; such works are corrupted by the sin nature of man and is not acceptable to God; and also, there has never been a law given that could impart life.

The Apostle Paul is speaking of men seeking righteousness through the “works of the Law” and James is speaking of a love that leads to obedience—“works of faith”---diligently following God’s plan.

The Apostle Paul writes,

For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law.

Romans 3:28 [NASU]

Now we will repeat the same Scripture but inserting the elements of faith in italics rather than the word “faith.”

For we maintain that a man is justified by hearing God, believing Him, and obeying from a heart of love apart from the works of the Law.

For example, let us imagine if Noah possessed a stone with God’s handwriting giving the Ten Commandments of the Moral Law. Let us also imagine that Noah also had God’s warning of a flood and instructions to build an ark. But let us suppose that out of fear of death Noah kept all Ten Commandments to the letter but ignored the instructions to build an ark. If all of the above were true, could “the works of the Law” save him? Of course not!

Let us imagine that, in as effort to survive the flood, Noah set out to build a boat without following God’s plan; and we will assume that he got his boat ready by the time the flood came. Don’t you know that the storm would have completely destroyed his little boat. Thus his works would have not saved him from death. He would have been like Nimrod, who never knew God, trying to build his tower into heaven.

The Apostle James writes,

What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him?

James 2:14 [NASU]

The Apostle James is speaking here of a faith that is lacking the element of obedience to the word of God.

Again, for example, let us imagine that Noah heard God when He warned of a flood that would destroy all flesh. And He believed Him as He gave him instructions to build an ark; but he never lifted a hand to pick up his tools to build the ark. Would his hearing and believing God save him? Of course not! Apart from works of obedience his hearing and believing would be worthless (James 2:17, 20). God’s saving grace was poured out upon Noah because he participated in his salvation through obedience to the word of God from a pure heart of love.

Out of God’s love for mankind, He has mercy and extends His invitation of salvation to man through His Son Jesus. We love God because He first loved us. Through this love of His, He inspires faith -- a faith that includes obedience (works).

James C Sanford

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Judypie Answers: Why Did Jesus Fold the Napkin?

Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection? I never noticed this.

John 20:7 tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.

Early that Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body and I don’t know where they have taken Him!”

Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn’t go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the napkin that had covered Jesus face was folded up and lying to one side.

Is that important? Absolutely!

Is that really significant? Yes!

In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about the Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition.

When the Servant set the dinner table for the Master, he made sure it was exactly the way the Master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the Master had finished eating. The Servant would not dare touch that table until the Master was finished.

If the Master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, “I’m finished.”

I did not know this.

If the Master got up from the table, and folded his napkin beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because....the folded napkin meant, “I’m coming back!”

He is coming back!

During this Holy season, I pray that you are blessed with peace and joy in the knowledge that He IS coming back someday.

And this is one I can honestly say I have never seen circulating in the e-mails.

I came to the world to be a Light. Anyone who puts his trust in Me will not be in darkness

John 12:46 (NLV)

Friday, April 24, 2009

9/11 Survivor

We recently heard the story of one of the survivors of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Check out his story in the video below:



This is a powerful testimony of what God can do. If you are experiencing problems in your life, just take the attitude that Stanley took... regardless of what you may be facing!

You can see more about this amazing guy at his web site.


Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Meditations from Judypie

Lord, I acknowledge you as my Strength, my Rock, my Fortress, my Deliverer and my Shield. Even though enemies rise up against me they will not triumph over me. I choose to walk in a manner that is pleasing to you, and you make my enemies to be at peace with me. You cause them to flee from me seven ways. How grateful I am that you, my Lord, would honor me by preparing a table of abundance for me in the presence of my enemies, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Deuteronomy 28:7; Psalm 18; Psalm 23:5; Proverbs 16:7

Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.
Psalm 121:4


Lord, cleanse me from all impurities and put a new heart and a new spirit within me. Remove my heart of stone and give me a heart of flesh that will be sensitive and compassionate to the needs of others. In Jesus’ name, help me to see others as you see them and to hear and answer their cries just as you would. Today, I will look for opportunities to bless others. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Ezekiel 36:25-28; Proverbs 3:27

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.
John 15:7


Father, I thank you for giving me the grace to believe in you and your Word even in the midst of the storms of life, providing a place of rest for me. In the midst of seemingly impossible demands, deadlines and tasks at hand, my heart is steadfast, fixed trusting in you. Your strength and boldness are released to me as I confidently rest in your promises. In your presence I am refreshed, restored and renewed in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Isaiah 30:15; Mark 6:31; Psalm 112

Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.
Psalm 121:4


Father, this is eternal life that we may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I thank You for sending Jesus to earth; to know Him is to know You. I thank You for the Holy Spirit who comforts and helps me – teaching me all things that You have said. I pause and take time to meditate on Your promises in the midst of my busy schedule, in the name of Jesus. You are my Strength, my Light and my Salvation. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: John 17:3; John 14; Psalm 27

How good and pleasant it is
when we live together in unity!
It is like precious oil poured on the head,
running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
down upon the collar of his robes.
It is as if the dew of Hermon
were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the LORD bestows his blessing,

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Judypie on Reconciliation

Do you know that God isn’t holding anything against you? He no longer sees you guilty, but redeemed through the shed blood of Jesus. God reconciled you to Himself.

When you received Jesus as your Savior, God gave you the ministry of reconciliation. He [personally present] in Christ, reconciled and restored the world to favor with Himself -- that includes you.

He is not counting up and holding against you your trespasses [but canceling them]. God has committed to you the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor). Being reconciled to God, you can now take the word of reconciliation to others.

Father, I thank You for saving me from wrath through Christ. If when I was Your enemy, I was reconciled to You through the death of Your Son, much more, having been reconciled, I shall be saved by His life. I also rejoice in You through my Lord Jesus Christ, through whom I have now received reconciliation. I shall rejoice in You and shall be glad in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Romans 5:9-11

Sunday, April 19, 2009

CTRL+ALT+DEL

This is an awesome video: Levi Lusko: CTRL+ALT+DEL



Taped today at Harvest Christian Fellowship, Riverside California

The Child of Promise

Writing to the Galatians the apostle Paul said,


"And you brethren, like Isaac, are children of promise. But as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, so it is now also {Gal. 4:28-29NAS}."


In today's modern congregations that gather in our Lord's name there are those who, like Isaac, are born according to the word of God and are the children and heirs according to the promises of God {John 3:16}; true believers who are born of the "water and the Spirit {John 3:5NAS}."


They are those who have come to know their Savior through the power of the gospel {Rom. 1:16}. They are believers who know the fundamental teachings of Christ and of His sufferings. They know of His work in His death, burial and resurrection and of their fellowship with Him {Rom. 8:17NAS}. They are true believers who are being sanctified by the cleansing "by the washing of water with the word {Eph. 5:26NAS}."


The "born again" are those who believe in the indwelling Spirit of God and the power that comes through the spiritual union with Him in prayer. They believe in the gifts of the Spirit, the resurrection of the dead, the laying on of hands, healing of the sick and the blind and the lame. They believe that the same God that created the heavens and the earth is the same God that watches over them day and night. The true believers know that there is nothing impossible with God!! These are the ones who are lead of the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God {Rom. 8:14NAS}. They are the invisible church, a remnant that is few in number.


And then there are those who, like Ishmael, are born according to the traditions of men; they are the works of the flesh. They were invited and came on "pack a pew day," or "bring a friend day," they were invited and came to the "church picnic," they came to play basketball with the other "young people" of the church, they went on the church group trips, they had their ears "tickled" and their fleshly senses stirred, which brought about an emotional decision to miss hell and go to heaven using a man called "Jesus" for a free pass.


And then they were invited and were baptized and added to the "church roll," and then told that they were heirs of the kingdom of God. They were told of and they serve a "new and improved god" and are saved by "a new and improved savior" who understands and is more broadminded concerning modern day man. They are the ones who do not follow some ancient outdated writings, but follow the "new and improved version" called the "Sunday school book," written by uninspired godless modern man.


They far out number the "true believers" therefore they can vote and pass on all the programs of man they desire; and they can place or displace who ever they desire in the pulpit. They have usurped and mocked the children of faith; and they ridicule them for all the "silly" things they believe. These are the children of the flesh, these are the "wolves in sheep clothing," {Matt. 7:15} these are the "tares" among the "wheat" (Matt. 13:25-40}. These will be removed in the "day of the Lord;" they will not be heirs with the children of promise.


But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For they are not all the true church that are on the congregation membership roll; neither are they all children because they are baptized in water and cry, Lord, Lord; but through Jesus are the children of the church named. That is, it is not the children of the flesh who are children of God, but the children who are according to promise are regarded as His seed {Rom. 9:6-8}.

Which one are you; an Ishmael or Isaac? Do not leave this world deceived!! If you are not sure, make sure before it is too late. Today is the day of salvation!!!


Pastor Jake

Meditations from Judypie

Heavenly Father, you are my light and my salvation. By your grace, I shall not fear man nor become entangled in the ungodly traditions of men. I throw aside every weight and sin that has tried to ensnare me so that I might run the race you have set before me with confidence, efficiency and effectiveness. I seek to be temperate in all things and run this race to receive a crown of eternal blessedness with certainty. Father, in my life be glorified, in Jesus' name. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Psalm 27:1; Hebrews 12:1; 1st Corinthians 9:24-26


Heavenly Father, because you have turned my captivity and have done great things for me, my mouth is filled with laughter and my tongue with singing. Joy floods my being, and rejoicing covers my lips! The dark clouds of oppression are replaced with your goodness and its beauty, Father. The cheerfulness of my heart is as medicine to my spirit, soul and body. It is well with me because I am yours and you are mine. Your banner over me is love. In the name of Jesus, I rejoice. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Job 8:21; Zechariah 9:17; Proverbs 17:22; Song of Solomon 6:3


Though some trust in chariots (riches) and some in horses (materials things), I will remember the name of the Lord, my God. You shall cause me to be as Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken or moved off course, and I shall walk in paths you have ordained for me. LORD, you surround me from this time forth and forever. In Jesus' name, I will reach the destination you have charted for me, Father, bringing great glory to your kingdom. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Psalm 20:7; Psalm 125:1


Father, by the grace you have given me, I trust you and your promises. You said that you would never leave me nor forsake me. You are always with me, in every personal and business situation. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who is my Comforter, Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Teacher and Guide. Though fear arises, I will not be dismayed because you uphold me with your victorious right hand in Jesus' name. You are my Helper. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Isaiah 41:10; John 15:26; Hebrews 13:5


Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.

Psalm 121:4

Friday, April 17, 2009

Judypie on Renewing Your Mind

It is possible to renew the mind to the Word of God. You can replace carnal thoughts of worry, fear, self-pity, and other self-defeating thoughts with peace. You can keep your mind filled with self-doubt, self-rejection and become self-absorbed -- or you can become spiritually minded and change your self-image replacing negative thoughts with God’s thoughts toward you.

Choose to be God-inside-minded.

Heavenly Father, I bind my mind to the mind of Christ, my will to the will of God and my emotions to the control of the Holy Spirit. I choose to walk according to the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus, setting my mind on the things of the Spirit. To be spiritually minded is life and peace. I count myself dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Romans 8:1-8; Romans 6:11



Thursday, April 16, 2009

Judypie on Friendship

Friendship should never be taken for granted. Jesus calls you His friend, and He is a Friend that sticks closer than a brother. Throughout your life He sends different people to you. Some are friends for a season. God sends them to meet a special need, or for you to meet a special need for them, and then you move off in different directions. Others remain friends throughout life.

God sends friends who share your disappointments, your hopes, your highs your lows. They see your faults and love you anyway. You learn to resolve conflict, trust one another. You become iron sharpening iron; helping each other grow in character, and in the love of God.

God uses friendship to shape and mold us: If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin (1st John 1:7).

Father, I thank You for my friends. We are kind to one another, speaking words of grace into each other’s lives. We are there to laugh and cry together; we trust each other, encouraging one another in the Lord. We confess our faults to one another and pray for one another that we may be healed and restored to a spiritual tone of mind and heart. Thank You Jesus for teaching me how to be a good friend. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 18:24; John 17:13-14; James 5:16

I came to the world to be a Light. Anyone who puts his trust in Me will not be in darkness

John 12:46 (NLV)

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Resurrection Power -- by Judypie

Many Christians who love the Lord have suffered trauma that left emotional wounds. Often this one event will hinder their spiritual development.

You are not responsible for what happened to you, but you are responsible for your present day response. You have the Life of God in you... be encouraged to speak Resurrection to the death that trauma brought to your soul.

You have passed from death to Life!

Father God, I arise to new life this day. I shake off the entanglements, hurts, bruises and sins of the past. It’s a new day! Thank You for doing a new thing in my life, Father. Forgetting the former things, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. I have the Life of God in me! Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Isaiah 60:1; Isaiah 49:19; Philippians 3:13-14

I came to the world to be a Light. Anyone who puts his trust in Me will not be in darkness

John 12:46 (NLV)

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Ordering Your Life

Recently, Joyce Meyer gave us some powerful tips on how to order our lives. We thought we would share these with you:

  • If you’re going to live the right way, you have to do it on purpose
    • Spending time with God MUST be part of your lifestyle
    • Treating people right MUST be part of your lifestyle
    • Being patient with people MUST be part of your lifestyle
  • Patience is a fruit that only grows under trial When you are in a hurry and someone is slow, you grow
  • Don’t wait for a platform – wait for a ministry And your ministry is everywhere you look: showing the fruit that Jesus showed while He was here
    • Be friendly to sinners
    • Affect them but don’t let them infect you
  • Be smart enough to examine your fruits and see if we don’t have what we want because of what we are or aren’t doing
  • Psalm 37:5 – commit your way to the Lord and trust Him to bring everything to pass
  • Stop giving somebody else the responsibility for your personal joy
  • Give up the lower-life so you can have the higher-life
  • What God says may not make sense to your mind but it should feel good in your heart
  • Forgive your enemies. Bless those who curse and abuse you. This shows that you are a child of your Father in heaven.
  • Whatever you want, give some of it FIRST, and THEN you can have it Not just by praying for it. Give some of it away first. You reap what you sow!
    • Need money? Tithe
    • If you are lonely, be a friend
    • If you need help, help somebody
    • If you need prayer, pray for people
    • If you need mercy, start being merciful
  • You can have whatever God says you can have – if you sow what you want to reap
  • The Christian life is an exciting life!
  • Determine to beat the devil simply by doing what God tells you to do.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Having Done All... Stand

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Ephesians 6:13 [NKJV]

The size of the prize determines the severity of the fight. The enemy knows your vulnerabilities and he'll push you to your limits. When he does, remember this:

“Blessed is the man who endures... when he has been approved, he will receive the crown” (James 1:12 NKJV). “Approved” means victory qualifies you for greater things.

“Endures” means your staying power is being tested. So, “having done all... stand” (Ephesians 6:13 NKJV).

You say, “How long will this attack last?” The Prince of Darkness hindered Daniel’s prayers for 21 days (See Daniel 10:13).

Goliath defied the armies of Israel for 40 days and nights (See 1st Samuel 17).

Your enemy is relentless; you must be, too. When it comes to prayer, your persistence overcomes his resistance.

For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise

Hebrews 10:36 [NKJV].

David didn’t get into trouble with Bathsheba until he left the battlefield. It’s the safest place to be. So stay there, keep fighting and God will come to your aid. When Joshua needed extra time to defeat his enemies, the sun stood still. God was saying, “As long as the sun doesn’t go down you won’t go down either, for the same power that is holding it up is holding you up.” Isn’t that great?

Jesus healed people in different ways. Some He spoke to, others He touched. One day He told ten lepers to go and show themselves to the priest. And the Bible says: “As they went, they were cleansed” (Luke 17:14 NIV). They were probably wondering, “When will it happen? How will it happen?” Faith doesn’t demand details, it just keeps moving obediently forward, believing God for the right result!

by Pastor Ng Francis
www.fnministries.com

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Joy and Gladness

Pastor Mike Macintosh related the story of a woman who was told, “Have a nice day!”

Obviously in a foul mood, the woman shot back words along the line of, “No thanks. I’ve got other plans!”

How many of us have been faced with a blessing from God... either through His Spirit or via another person... and yet chose to wallow in our squalor rather than to receive what God has for us. It reminds me of a New Years Eve party at a ritzy hotel. As I arrived and walked through the entrance, I saw three distraught young women. One was wailing piteously. I inquired and was told that they were upset because they were about to enter a new year and they didn’t have boyfriends. I thought that if they would clean up their tears and straighten up their countenances, maybe some single man would want to talk with them. They didn’t like my suggestion and decided to leave the hotel before the clock struck midnight.

So what?

In the Bible, King David had experienced God’s punishment for a series of sins that started with lust and ended with murder. Yet, he didn’t resolve to die in his wretched situation. No, David cried out to God for two things.

What were those two things?

Make me to hear joy and gladness and be satisfied; let the bones which You have broken rejoice.

Psalm 51:8 (Amplified Bible)

David wanted to hear Joy and Gladness. He wanted to be able to rejoice... knowing that the joy of the Lord is our strength and stronghold (see Nehemiah 8:10). Well, we all know that David’s sorrow eventually returned to joy as he received God’s forgiveness (although, his behavior ultimately resulted in his family falling apart).

On a larger scale, Israel suffered when time after time they rebelled against God and were taken into captivity by their enemies. And, when the Lord ransomed them and allowed them to return to Zion, they received joy and gladness.

And the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing, and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

Isaiah 35:10 (Amplified Bible)

Mary was told of the joy and exultant delight that would come from the birth of Jesus. But that rejoicing extends to day to the many who receive Him as Savior and Lord. I am reminded of a pastor in Iran who was originally a jihad leader. A member of his terrorist cell had confiscated a bunch of New Testaments that a believer had distributed. He burned all except for one, which was shown to the leader. The leader read it to find out what the infidels were up to. He started in Matthew and, by the time he reached chapter ten, he realized that he was not reading words of a man. Rather, he understood that he was reading the word of God. Today, this man is a pastor... and I have no doubt he is also rejoicing over the coming of the Messiah.

And you shall have joy and exultant delight, and many will rejoice over his birth

Luke 1:14 (Amplified Bible)

During some of the deepest and darkest periods of my life, I have sought the Lord and He has responded by giving me joy and gladness. While living in the Republic of Singapore, we wrote a song to that effect... a song that is a part of our Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer series.

Storm clouds are raging all around me
Dark breakers rolling on the black sea
But i won’t fear
‘Cause my Jesus gave me joy

Although the devil’s on the war path
My neighbors mock at me and they laugh
But i don’t care
‘Cause His Spirit gives me joy

Joy and Gladness
Not for what i see
But for what He’s done for me

Joy and Gladness
Oh yes, i believe
That’s what Jesus is to me

Joy and Gladness
That no one can destroy

Oh, He lives in me
And He fills my heart with joy

i focus on His precious promise
i’ll never be like doubting Thomas
Yes, i’ll stand firm
‘Cause my Jesus gave me joy

My Savior dwells within my praises
He guides me thru life’s darkened mazes
All praise to Him
For He fills my heart with joy

Joy and Gladness
Not for what i see
But for what He’s done for me

Joy and Gladness
Oh yes, i believe
That’s what Jesus is to me

Joy and Gladness
That no one can destroy

Oh, He lives in me
And He fills my heart with...

Not happiness for those things
i see or can possess
But joy in the Holy Ghost
Who gives me peace and rest

Are you feeling weak? Has the economy got you down? Is the strife in the Middle East causing you panic? Are you upset over politics or some other thing pertaining to this life? Well, take some time to seek the Lord that you may experience what Ezra told the people of Israel to receive...

Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.

Nehemiah 8:10 (Amplified Bible)

Joy and gladness is a Fruit of the Spirit. If you are a Christian and are filled with the Spirit of God, then allow Him to manifest that fruit in your life.

If not... then why wait? Receive it right now.

BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST and EXPERIENCE that JOY AND GLADNESS that God has for you.

Amen.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Holy Week-End by Judypie

Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

Matthew 27:17 (KJV)

The same crowd that praised Him is now saying "Crucify Him". Let Barabas loose and crucify Jesus. Let His blood be on us and on our children. That is how much we despise Him."

You cannot live your life to please people. There is only one that you can count on at all times and it is God Almighty. He is always on your side.

When Jesus died on the cross and descended into the depths of hell to pay the price for your sins, He died both physically and spiritually (Romans 10:7). In those agonizing moments, Jesus became sin, and His heavenly Father turned His back on His Son (Matthew 27:46).

After spending three days and nights in the pit of hell, the power of God resurrected Him back to spiritual life with a new spirit, and a glorified body. Acts 13:33 says, "God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee." This day that God is talking about is the day that Jesus was resurrected. He became the first begotten son of God-born again from spiritual death to life.

God is love, and everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.

Father, how much you have loved us! Thank you for loving the world so much that you gave your only Son so that anyone who believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. You sent Jesus to save us, and we pray for those who are unsaved believing that when they hear Truth, they will gladly come to the Light, call upon the Name of the Lord, and be saved. In the name of Jesus, we thank you for the salvation of our families and friends. Nations shall fall down and worship the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: John 3:16; Romans 10:13

I came to the world to be a Light. Anyone who puts his trust in Me will not be in darkness

John 12:46 (NLV)

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Self Control

Of the Fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23, self-control (self-restraint, continence) is the last item in the list... but certainly not the least. In order to be Christ-like in this world.. we must be able to practice self-control, self-restraint, and continence.

People will make you angry... but What Would Jesus Do? Would Jesus flip them the bird? Would He cuss them out? NO. NO. A thousand times NO! Jesus exhibited love and compassion, even when people were all up in His face acting ignorant. Can we do the same?

The bigger question is...

Can we afford to not do the same?

11 For the grace of God (His unmerited favor and blessing) has come forward (appeared) for the deliverance from sin and the eternal salvation for all mankind. 12 It has trained us to reject and renounce all ungodliness (irreligion) and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet (temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritually whole) lives in this present world, 13 Awaiting and looking for the [fulfillment, the realization of our] blessed hope, even the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed One),

Titus 2:11-13 (Amplified Bible)

God’s unmerited favor and blessing gives us the ability to avoid loose and licentious living. As we yield to the Spirit (because, He has the right of way), we will practice self-control in the face of any sort of temptation that satan may try to use to trip us up. As we maintain a close and intimate walk with the Savior, we can have continual victory and rise from glory to glory. Now, There are many types of temptation that we encounter in life. One item from our Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer series, “Self Control,” addresses some of those that are probably the most common to the majority of us. Take the following verses in mind:

She looks so good
She looks so fine
In designer jeans
To my eyes, like wine

But that don’t play
Gotta look away
For the Spirit says
Crucify your flesh

Bring it under control
Self-control
Bring it under control
Self-control
Get a hold of your soul...
Self-control!

A chocolate cake
Ice cream on top
Though my belly’s full
I don’t wanna stop

But i can’t be
Slave to gluttony
Here, the Spirit lives
i’m completely His

Bring it under control
Self-control
Bring it under control
Self-control
Get a hold of your soul...
Self-control!

Where there is self control
There’s no law... No shame
I’ll take authority
In my Jesus’ name!

He makes me mad
Enough to spit
poisoned, venom words
i could throw a fit

But that is sin
Gotta reel it in
Bless his soul, instead
Hot coals on his head

Bring it under control
Self-control
Bring it under control
Self-control
Get a hold of your soul...
Self-control!

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Worship Together

WorshipTogether.com
In This Edition

- New Easter Song: "Jesus Saves"

- 10 songs for Easter

- Gear Review: The Blue Bluebird


Song Spotlight

I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin

Free Songs

Jesus Saves

Tim Hughes

Happy Day

Tim Hughes

We Will Not Go

Kelly Minter

On The Third Day

Matt Maher

I Will Rise

Chris Tomlin

Lord Of All
Kristian Stanfill


New Song Cafe

We Will Not Go

Kelly Minter


New Song Jukebox

Jesus Saves

Tim Hughes

We Will Not Go

Kelly Minter

On The Third Day

Matt Maher

I Will Rise

Chris Tomlin

Lord Of All

Kristian Stanfill

LISTEN NOW!


Jesus Saves

New Easter Song:

"Jesus Saves"
This new song from Tim Hughes is an incredible anthem encouraging us to "let all the world know that Jesus saves!" We know that there are only 2 weeks until Easter but we think you will want to make room for this song as you finalize plans for your Easter worship services. Listen to the song and learn it here, then go download the Free Sheet Music here!

10 Songs for Easter

If you haven't finished up planning your Easter services yet, here are 10 songs that would work great on Palm Sunday or Easter Sunday...

Blue Bluebird Review

Gear Review: The Bluebird

Engineers all have different perspectives on gear and studio necessities. For me the biggest impact for studio recording is the Mic and Preamp. There are distinct differences on products within various price ranges. For this review think microphones ranging from $200 to $500. Within this budget I believe the Bluebird by Blue Microphones is the best bang for the buck. Blue engineered this mic to be an all purpose large diaphragm condenser...and that's exactly what it is. Click here to read the rest of the review...

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