Perilous Times

Remember the scene from the movie Home Alone 2 when the kid is scared in Central Park and flags a taxi?  He says to the taxi driver, “It’s scary out there.”  The scary looking taxi driver turns around and says, “It ain’t all that great in here,” or something like that.

Well... this world we are living in is scary.  And whether you are looking at things on the domestic level (the economy... or politics... etc.) or on the international level (Al Qaeda... nuclear Iran... etc.) it is pretty scary no matter which way your turn.

That is why we find that the Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy, written centuries ago, are as current as the front page of tomorrow’s newspaper.

¹BUT UNDERSTAND this, that in the last days will come (set in) perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear].
²For people will be lovers of self and [utterly] self-centered, lovers of money and aroused by an inordinate [greedy] desire for wealth, proud and arrogant and contemptuous boasters. They will be abusive (blasphemous, scoffing), disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy and profane.
³[They will be] without natural [human] affection (callous and inhuman), relentless (admitting of no truce or appeasement); [they will be] slanderers (false accusers, troublemakers), intemperate and loose in morals and conduct, uncontrolled and fierce, haters of good.
⁴[They will be] treacherous [betrayers], rash, [and] inflated with self-conceit. [They will be] lovers of sensual pleasures and vain amusements more than and rather than lovers of God.
⁵For [although] they hold a form of piety (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them].
⁶For among them are those who worm their way into homes and captivate silly and weak-natured and spiritually dwarfed women, loaded down with [the burden of their] sins [and easily] swayed and led away by various evil desires and seductive impulses.
⁷[These weak women will listen to anybody who will teach them]; they are forever inquiring and getting information, but are never able to arrive at a recognition and knowledge of the Truth.

2 Timothy 3:1-7 [AMP]

Perilous times will come in the last days... the days before Christ returns... the days we are living in.  The days that the bum with the sandwich board on the street are talking about.  Yeah... those days.

What Are “Perilous Times?”

The word “perilous” in the original Greek text is the word chalepoi which means fierce, perilous, hard to live in, troublesome, dangerous: harsh, fierce, full of troubles and dangers; times that are hard to bear.

It is not very surprising when we see such characteristics in the people of this world. After all... these people are servants of satan and follow his behavior patterns.

What is surprising, however, is when we see these characteristics popping up within the church.  We cover this phenomenon from a couple angles in our book, Spiritual Fruits or Religious Nuts: but let’s address matters from Jesus’s perspective in the following scripture:

²⁴Another parable He set forth before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field.
²⁵But while he was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed also darnel (weeds resembling wheat) among the wheat, and went on his way.
²⁶So when the plants sprouted and formed grain, the darnel (weeds) appeared also.
²⁷And the servants of the owner came to him and said, Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? Then how does it have darnel shoots in it?
²⁸He replied to them, An enemy has done this. The servants said to him, Then do you want us to go and weed them out?
²⁹But he said, No, lest in gathering the wild wheat (weeds resembling wheat), you root up the [true] wheat along with it.
³⁰Let them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will say to the reapers, Gather the darnel first and bind it in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my granary.

Matthew 13:24-30 [AMP]

In the above scripture, Jesus tells us that the tares (a plant that looks like wheat) will be allowed to grow along side the wheat until the time of harvest. They may outwardly resemble Christians, but without any spiritual fruit.

On the day of judgment, when all men and women will stand before a righteous
God, we may be surprised to see some people who were prominent in the church being judged.
No doubt, they may be even more surprised about that. 

So let’s do some expository on Paul’s words to Timothy and the members of the
body of Christ, and let us attempt to understand our scripture text and discern exactly what types of behavior
Paul was referring to in these perilous times we are living in:

Men Shall Be Selfish (philautoi)

Do you love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself, or do you “look out for number one?”

And he replied, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.

Luke 10:27 [AMP]

God’s very nature is to be gracious... to give.. to show mercy and
loving-kindness to you.  He wants us to do the same.

And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts Himself up, that He may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who [earnestly] wait for Him, who expect and look and long for Him [for His victory, His favor, His love, His peace, His joy, and His matchless, unbroken companionship]!

Isaiah 30:18 [AMP]

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.

John 3:16 [AMP]

If we are to walk after the image of our Heavenly Father, we need to walk after His example of selfless giving, not “get all you can... can all you get... then, sit on the can.”

THEREFORE BE imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father].

Ephesians 5:1 [AMP]

Men Shall Be Covetous (philargooroi)

They will be lovers of money more than lovers of God or their brethren.

They would rather spend extravagantly than bring tithes into the house of God. They would rather be gluttons than donate food to the poor. They would rather watch television than hear the gospel.

Some of them will stand in a pulpit and squeeze money out of people who can’t afford it in order to meet their own agenda.  And while they will take, take, take... they never give any of their own away.

In either instance... these covetous people have made material things their god... and we all know that you can’t take it with you.

The world says to love things and use people. We need to love people, and use things to bring glory to our Father.

The members of the early church shared all that they had. Why don’t we?

Men Shall Be Boasters (alazones)

This word was originally used to describe a “quack” doctor who went from town to town, trying to sell “snake oil.”

The phony medicine pushed by these quacks promised to cure a wide range of illnesses. In reality, they did nothing to help people... but may make them sicker or even kill them!

Such individuals claim to have the answers, but they really do not. Their religion is just empty pretending.

Are you an empty pretender? Do you parade about, trying to pass yourself off as something you are not? Does God get the glory or do you pat yourself on the back?

Paul had much that he could have bragged about.

• He was a Pharisees’ Pharisee.
• He was an eloquent speaker.
• God handpicked him.

Despite all of this, Paul counted his credentials as worthless as the feces one flushes down the toilet.  Nothing could possibly compare to the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Yes, furthermore, I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One)

Philippians 3:8 [AMP]

Men Shall Be Proud (huperəphanoi)

The Greek word means “to show oneself above.” These persons not only think too highly of themselves, they despise others. We see an example of this spirit in Luke, chapter 18:

The Pharisee took his stand ostentatiously and began to pray thus before and with himself: God, I thank You that I am not like the rest of men--extortioners (robbers), swindlers [unrighteous in heart and life], adulterers--or even like this tax collector here.

Luke 18:11 [AMP]

Have you ever bristled upon encountering a drunkard, a homeless person, or perhaps a prostitute on a street corner? Remember it is only God’s grace that you are not out there.

And the King will reply to them, Truly I tell you, in so far as you did it for one of the least [in the estimation of men] of these My brethren, you did it for Me.

Matthew 25:40 [AMP]

This type of attitude is illustrated in the following selection from our Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer volume 1:

Standing on the corner
Under pale moonlight
a little lady stands there
sordid merchandise

Just an hour later
in the shadows dark
another pint of vodka
numbs her wounded heart

Do you not see her?
How can you pass her by?
Where is your compassion?
Can you not hear her cry?

Walking through the front door
of our Sunday church
The little lady comes in
wants to stop the hurt

Laying on the sidewalk
ushers threw her out
‘How dare you show your face here?’
‘Thank you, please stay out!’

How could this happen?
How could it go this way?
What would you do if God
treated you the same way?

He calls us to love and forgive
to heal the wounded sin-sick souls
the church is a holy hospital...
(not a social club)

Standing on the corner
on her way to hell
a little lady stands there
merchandise to sell

What a sad occurrence
What a tragedy...
One question you should ask yourself

What if it was me?

Do you not see her?
How can you pass her by?
Where is your compassion?
Can you not hear her cry?

How could this happen?
How could it go this way?
What would you do if God
treated you the same way?

Men Shall Be Blasphemers (blasphəmoi)

These people speak evil, slanderous, or abusive words against God and/or men.

They are quick with criticism and put-downs.

Some comedians on television joke about growing up in church while reviling God and all that He stands for.

Although you may never have taken God’s name in vain, maybe your behavior has given God’s enemies an occasion to blaspheme. (see 2 Samuel 12 and Romans 2:24).

Any sin in the camp may affect the entire church (see Joshua 7; Joshua 22:20; and 1 Corinthians 10:6).

To quote R.W. Schambach:  “Get rid of your sin before your sin gets rid of you.”

There is even a free downloadable album on that very same topic located here.

Men Shall Be Disobedient to Parents

If you have unsaved parents, keeping your room clean and your chores up to date will win them to Christ a lot faster than nagging them about church or slipping gospel tracts into their sandwiches.

Do you honor your mother and father?

Mouse-over these scriptures:

• Exodus 20:12
• Deuteronomy 5:16
• Matthew 15:4-6
• Ephesians 6:2

Men Shall Be Unthankful (acharistoi)

These ungrateful ones take and take, but never stop to say “thank you.” You should “Count your many blessings... see what God has done.” This brings glory to God and gives you strength in times of trial. David praised God for delivering him from the jaws of the lion and the bear. This, in turn, gave him the confidence and spiritual fortitude to defeat Goliath (1 Samuel 17:36).

Men Shall Be Unholy (anosioi)

They offend all that is holy, not satisfied with simply practicing their wickedness but desiring to drag others into their lifestyles.

Men Shall Be Without Natural Affection (Astorgoi)

The Greek word is the opposite of “to cherish affectionately with family love.” Today, children shoot and kill without a twinge of remorse. Proverbs 12:10 describes these people perfectly... even their “tender mercies” are cruel.

Men Shall Be Trucebreakers (aspondoi)

A trucebreaker cannot agree to or refuses to enter a covenant. They are dishonest and not trustworthy. They reject salvation, since this is a covenant relationship between man and God (see Acts 3:25).

Men Shall Be False Accusers (Diaboloi)

If you speak Spanish, you will recognize the Greek word as meaning, “the Devil.” Satan is a slanderer and a false accuser (see Revelation 12:10). If you accuse your brother or sister in gossip conversation, you are sitting in the devil’s seat.

Men Shall Be Incontinent (akrateis)

This does not refer to a weak bladder, but a lack of spiritual or moral self-control.

A wise man once told me that the purpose of a lock was simply to keep honest men honest.  A dishonest man will break into a locked car or building and will steal.

In Galatians 5:23, self-control (”temperance” in the KJV) is a fruit of the Spirit. If you truly are Christ’s and are filled with His Spirit, then you will not be one such person.

Men Shall Be Fierce (anəmeroi)

These men are “brutal” or “savage.” Like wild beasts, they pounce upon their prey and mercilessly rip it to shreds.

Many people will walk past someone in the sanctuary and mercilessly rip him or her to shreds with their tongue. These people are savage... fierce.

Men Shall Be Despisers Of Those That Are Good (aphilagathoi)

They are opposed to goodness and those who stand for right. They campaign for animal rights but seek to kill unborn children. They bring homosexuals and lesbians into schools, yet protest the idea of the Bible in school.

Men Shall Be Traitors (prodotai)

This is treacherous behavior. Be diligent to lift one another up in prayer. Don’t betray your family in Christ. Stand in the gap for them lest the enemy hinder them.

Men Shall Be Heady

Are you rash, reckless, or hasty? Do you wait on the Lord, doing things decently and in order, or do you disregard leadership and do things your way?

Men Shall Be Highminded (teutphəmenoi)

The Greek word literally means, “conceited.” Are you proud, or lifted up with pride? Do you become blinded with pride?

Men Shall Be Lovers of Pleasure More Than Lovers of God (philədonoi mallon ə philotheoi)

The Greek phrase refers to those who would rather seek their own pleasure than God’s will and purpose. Does evening service interfere with your game? Does prayer meeting interfere with your television watching?

That is not to imply that there is no pleasure in serving God. King David said that he was glad when they said unto him, “let us go into the house of the Lord.” Are you glad about serving God, or do you see your “religious duty” as a ball and chain?

Men Shall Have A Form of Godliness, But Deny the Power Thereof

You may have an outline or a semblance of piety towards God, but your actions show that you have an estrangement with the power (or, Dunamis... dynamite dynamic Holy Ghost power) of God.

You talk a good talk but you don’t walk the right walk. You may sing and shout. Your tearstains may be on the altar. However, are you able to walk holy before the Lord?

Turn Away From Such Men (and Women)

Some of the most charismatic people in our society (politicians, entertainers and false religious leaders) fall into one or more of the categories that Paul describes.

If any of this applies to you, turn away from sin, submit yourself to God and resist the devil, then satan will flee from you (James 4:7). Submit yourself to the cleansing of God’s holy word (John 15:3).

Protect Your Family

In verse 6, Paul tells us that such people sneak (insinuate themselves) into the house / family / property / wealth / goods of others like an insect crawling through a crack in the wall.

Be vigilant to protect your family from those who would lead them away from the path of righteousness.

Are You A WIMP?

These people capture or make captive weak-willed individuals. In verse 6, the KJV reads, “silly women.” However, the context of the Greek suggests that this is not strictly a reference to women, but may also refer to what we would call a “wimp.”

If a man is not fulfilling his role as head of his family, he may be a “weak willed little woman” (see Ephesians 5:33 and 1 Timothy 5:8).

Of course, this verse also applies to women who fail to maintain God’s standards of virtue (i.e., Proverbs 31:10-31 and Titus 2:3-5).

Paul says that these “wimps” are loaded with the consciousness of many sins (failure to hit the mark, committing bad actions or evil deeds; possibly through an error of understanding). They are “Prisoners of War” to satan
and his army of demons.

These people would rather fry their brains on lust-filled soap operas than feed themselves God’s word (see 1 Corinthians 3:2).

They would rather gossip on the telephone than talk about the goodness of Jesus
(see 1 Peter 4:11).

These people are setting themselves up to be “led captive” by the people of these perilous days. Do you want to be satan’s prisoner of war... or do you want to be free?

What Impulses Motivate You?

At the end of verse 6, Paul describes these people as being led away (literally, moved by forces and impulses affecting the mind) with many types of lusts, desire, craving, longing, and desire for that which is forbidden. Harlequin Romance Novels, “Swimsuit Editions” and R-rated movies create such impulses.

Is Your Bible Study Fruitful?

In verse 7, we see these “wimps” constantly increasing their knowledge, yet they are never able to come to the precise and correct knowledge of things that are ethical and divine (the truth of the gospel). They are implacable by virtue of their own ability and resources, their state of mind, and/or their customs.

The seven most dangerous words for church leaders is, “We’ve never done it that way before.” Don’t reject God’s moving because it clashes with tradition. Don’t resist change because you are not willing to accept the truth. Don’t hear sermons Sunday after Sunday without it getting out of your head and into your heart.

Many people have their own agenda for attending church. Some go for social or political reasons. Some go to find a husband or wife. Some go to have their good deeds outweigh their sins. The scriptures describe exactly what benefit they get out of their “religiosity” or “churchianity...”

¹THEREFORE, WHILE the promise of entering His rest still holds and is offered [today], let us be afraid [to distrust it], lest any of you should think he has come too late and has come short of [reaching] it.
²For indeed we have had the glad tidings [Gospel of God] proclaimed to us just as truly as they [the Israelites of old did when the good news of deliverance from bondage came to them]; but the message they heard did not benefit them, because it was not mixed with faith (with the leaning of the entire personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) by those who heard it; neither were they united in faith with the ones [Joshua and Caleb] who heard (did believe).
³For we who have believed (adhered to and trusted in and relied on God) do enter that rest, in accordance with His declaration that those [who did not believe] should not enter when He said, As I swore in My wrath, They shall not enter My rest; and this He said although [His] works had been completed and prepared [and waiting for all who would believe] from the foundation of the world.

Hebrews 4:1-3 [AMP]

Be steadfast in prayer and Bible study if you wish to survive these perilous times.

Judypie on Forgiving Others

Father, I thank you for choosing me before the foundation of the world. I receive your Word that says that I am holy and without blame. As your dearly beloved child, I clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. I bear with others and forgive whatever grievances I may have against them. I forgive as the Lord forgives me. Over all these virtues, I put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. In Jesus name. Amen

Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy (consecrated and set apart for Him) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love.

Ephesians 1:4 [AMP]

¹²Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].

¹³Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive].

¹⁴And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].

¹⁵And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].

Colossians 3:12-15 [AMP]

Keys to Success

Years ago, I started carrying a little black book around. And no, it was not filled with phone numbers or any such thing... it was a collection of scriptures that I had studied to help myself during times of spiritual warfare. Over the years, it covered everything from my health to my relationships to my employment. Referring to those scriptures has been a great blessing, since the tests of life are open-book tests. We can always open the word of God for protection against whatever may be facing us in life.

Our Powerhouse Publication, Weapons of Mass Destruction, was written as an expository on those scriptures... and is something that we made available to people who may be facing struggles in their lives. Still, it is important to study God’s word for yourself so that you may find answers that are specific to the issues that you may be facing... and that the Holy Spirit may bring these scriptures to your remembrance when you are facing times of test and trial.

Recently, we added a few scriptures to the start-up routine of our computer so that we might remind ourselves of the blessings and protection promised in God’s word. As time progressed, we have added to those scriptures as God has brought new revelation through those who teach and (spiritually) feed us. Let’s take a look at them right now... maybe you might add them to your daily prayer and/or study time?

The first of these scriptures is from the book of Isaiah and was brought to our attention by Joyce Meyer. This scripture admonishes us about the following...

Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old.

Isaiah 43:18 [AMP]

This particular scripture helps me immensely, as I am one of those people who does mental replays of situations in my life... particularly, those which were defeats or failures. I grew up in a household where I heard daily recitations of things that happened to my parents. I recall my mother and aunt getting into a vicious fight over some boy they both liked when they were teenagers... and they were in their late 60’s and early 70’s at the time. Can you imagine something from so many years ago getting you so agitated that you want to fight somebody?

Well, the Lord says to Isaiah that we should not dwell on old things... especially when God has given us new things. If you are happily married, why think about past relationships? If you are in a job you love, why worry about a job you lost? Keep your thoughts facing forward... in anticipation of the blessings of God. Don‘t spend hours... days... weeks... years... even decades mentally mired in the past when God has such a brilliant future for you. In fact, Luke 12:32 says?

Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the Kingdom.

Luke 12:32

Another interesting part of my childhood is hearing about how it probably isn’t God’s will for anything good to happen to you. When I was passed over for promotion, I was chastised for even wanting to get promoted. Well, I can understand how my parents grew up with such attitudes... but it was contrary to God’s plan for my life. Even when people got into my way, trying to hold me back... I knew that God had great things in store... because my life would give Him glory.

Our Father in heaven is pleased to give us the Kingdom. So then... as Jesus says... why should we fear? We should not be afraid. God takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servants (Psalm 35:27). That is the opposite of what I was taught as a youngster... that the Lord takes pleasure in seeing you wallow in the mud with somebody’s boot on the back of your neck. No, God wants you to overcome all of the works of satan. In fact, Luke 10:19 tells us that He gives us power to overcome all of satan’s works... which are to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10).

Instead of your [former] shame you shall have a twofold recompense; instead of dishonor and reproach [your people] shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double [what they had forfeited]; everlasting joy shall be theirs.

Isaiah 61:7 [AMP]

Yes, satan comes to kill, steal, and destroy. But Jesus came that we may have and enjoy life in abundance... to the full... until it overflows. So then, instead of the shame that you experienced in the past... you will receive double for your trouble just like Job received double for his trouble. If you were dishonored in the past, just keep doing the honorable thing before God. This may include forgiving those who caused you problems. I have found that the Holy Spirit has urged me to minister forgiveness, as Jesus told us to do.

I recall a situation where somebody did something mean and hurtful... and I knew there was nothing that I had done to deserve this treatment. And so, the Spirit of God urged me not only to firgive, but also to bless that person. Well... that was a very difficult thing to do... but I prayed the blessings of Deuteronomy 28 upon that person and while I have no idea of what happened to that individual, I do realize that it set me free. In fact, I had a spring in my step... forgetting that past hurt and moving on into God’s excellence!

You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.

Psalm 128:2

When people steal from you, revenge should be the last thing on your mind. The reason we often seek revenge in those situations is because we want to get back what was stolen... either in kind or in the satisfaction in knowing that we hurt that person who hurt us. However, be aware of this one thing... that God has given us the promise that He will provide our needs, according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. What a great promise, huh?

So then, let go of what somebody stole from you... God has something even better. If you work hard, the Bible promises that you will enjoy the fruits of your hard and honest labor. The Bible promises that you will receive and possess blessings. The Bible promises that you will enjoy prosperity. Why? Because your Father in heaven loves you. He is your Defender! He is Jehovah-Jireh, your provider. His grace is sufficient for you!

All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].

Proverbs 15:15 [AMP]

Now, what is a sure-fire way to extinguish the blessings from God? That is to lose faith... to buy into the devil’s lies. To mire yourself in negativity. What God promises belongs to you... but you must receive it. You could be hungry and starve to death even though there is a smorgasbord sitting right in front of you. Bread... meat... poultry... cakes... pies... everything you could possibly imagine. But guess what, if you don’t take from the table and eat, you will die of starvation... even though your supply is right in front of you.

God is known as El Shaddai. He is The All-Sufficient One. God has all that you need... and more than you can handle. However, are you willing to receive. Well, Proverbs 15:15 tells us that if we allow our minds to be captured by anxious thoughts and forebodings, we will live days that are made evil. What makes our days evil? We do! How? By thinking negative thoughts. We need to have glad hearts in order to enjoy the continual feast of God’s abundant blessings. Remember, the joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10).

Show me a sign of [Your evident] goodwill and favor, that those who hate me may see it and be put to shame, because You, Lord, [will show Your approval of me when You] help and comfort me.

Psalm 86:17 [AMP]

When a group of people conspired against me and caused me great loss... I was reminded that “the best revenge is to live well.” If that is true, then I would seek a sign from the Lord of His evident goodwill and favor. Such a sign will allow those who hate me to be put to shame. Why? Because they will see that the Lord loves me and that He approves of me. That also reminds me not to seek the approval of man, but rather the approval of God.

There is honor that comes from man, and then there is honor that comes from God. Man’s honor is fickle. Think of performers and entertainers who are celebrated one day and barely tolerated the next. Think of people who were put up on a pedestal in the golden days of Hollywood, only to die alone and wretched in the Motion Picture Nursing Home. Once, they walked the red carpet in tuxedoes and gowns. Later, they sat in wheelchairs in ratty pajamas. No... I would rather have the honor from God that promises a mansion on streets of gold!

Return to the stronghold [of security and prosperity], you prisoners of hope; even today do I declare that I will restore double your former prosperity to you.

Zechariah 9:12 [AMP]

Going back to the example of Job in the Old Testament, we are reminded that God can give you double for your trouble. Zechariah prophesizes this to Israel... and as the spiritual seed of Abraham through Christ Jesus, we can have that same blessed assurance. You can be confident that God has the power to return twice of what was stolen from you. Just fix your faith on God’s word and watch with expectancy. Don’t put limits on God... don’t let your religious traditions nullify what He wants to do in your life.

I remember that song they used to sing in church... and probably still sing it today :-)

There is no secret
What God can do
What He’s done for others
He will do for you...

If you can accept what God did for Job... and look at how He has taken care of you in the past... or even look at our testimony... then you see that there is absolutely positively no need for doubt or unbelief in your life. The word of God tells you plainly that He will restore double your former prosperity. So, whatever you may have lost... believe that God can restore it. And, He will if you will have faith... which Hebrews 11:6 tells us is what pleases God.

Earnestly and diligently seek God out. But it is more important (and more satisfying) to seek His face, rather than to seek His hand. In other words, strive for a close and personal relationship with your Father in heaven above seeking a blessing from Him. As we heard from a preacher in Asia years ago, Jesus is the greatest blessing. To know God as your Father (and not as some sentient but impersonal cosmic power some trillions of miles away) is the true blessing...

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.

Numbers 6:24-26 [NIV]

This is an awesome blessing from the Bible... one that is often used as a benediction at the end of a worship service. Originally, it was how Aaron and his sons were instructed to bless the people of Israel. I like the part about the Lord making His face to shine upon you. Like the warmth and brightness of the sun... but, of course, much greater in magnitude and value, is the warmth and brightness of His love as He smiles upon you. Yes, God loves you. God is not looking for a lightning bolt to throw at you to annihilate you. No, He is looking for an opportunity to bless you.

Keep in mind that the Lord sent His only begotten Son to seek and save that which was lost. Even when we were lost in our sins... even when we were His enemies, Christ died for the ungodly (Romans 5:6). The Lord looks upon you with His everlasting love, forgetting your sins and rejoicing over you (His child) with singing (Zephaniah 3:17). He will guide you with His eye upon you (Psalm 32:8).

Hmm... Psalm 32:8 brings back memories of this song that the deacons in the old Baptist church I grew up in used to sing...

If you cannot sing like angels,
If you cannot preach like Paul;
You can tell the love of Jesus;
You can say he died for all.

I will guide thee, I will guide thee,
I will guide thee with mine eye
All the way from earth to heaven,
I will guide thee with mine eye.

If you cannot give your thousands,
You can give the widow's mite
For the least you do for Jesus
Will be precious in his sight.

I will guide thee, I will guide thee,
I will guide thee with mine eye
All the way from earth to heaven,
I will guide thee with mine eye.

Hark! The voice of Jesus calling
“Who will go and work today?
Fields are wide and harvest is waiting,
Who will bear my shield away?”

I will guide thee, I will guide thee,
I will guide thee with mine eye
All the way from earth to heaven,
I will guide thee with mine eye.

Hark, the voice of Jesus calling,
To each one who passes by,
“All the way from earth to Heaven,
I will guide thee with mine eye.”

God will guide you and give you peace. The word translated “peace” in the original Hebrew language is Shalom -- nothing missing, nothing broken!

I shall not die but live, and shall declare the works and recount the illustrious acts of the Lord.

Psalm 118:17 [AMP]

Remember in John 10:10 we saw that satan comes to kill, steal and destroy. Yet, we have the promise from the Bible that satan can’t kill us. I will not die... I will live to declare the works and recount the illustrious acts of the Lord. Wow... this scripture brings to mind a song that my mother’s choir used to sing when I was in church as a child. It is Hall Johnson’s traditional spiritual Ain’t Got Time to Die:

Lord, I keep so busy praising my Jesus
Keep so busy praising my Jesus
Keep so busy praising my Jesus
Ain’t got time to die

‘Cause it takes all of my time
To praise my Jesus
All of my time
To praise my Lord
If I don’t praise Him the rocks gonna cry out
Glory and honor
Glory and honor

Ain’t got time to die

Don’t listen to news reports of swine flu and allow satan to take you on a mental tangent of evil forebodings that have you picturing your funeral... and what clothes they will bury you in... and how many of your relatives will snot and slobber over you... and which other relatives will be ransacking your house and stealing your things while the others are paying their last respects. Wait a minute! Why get mentally bound by that nonsense when you can better focus your mind on the promise that by Jesus stripes you were healed (see Isaiah 53:4-6).

Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you.

Luke 10:19 [AMP]

We will close on this scripture which we referenced earlier in this teaching. Jesus gives us authority and power.

There are two words for power in this scripture... dunamis which is a Greek word that some people like to describe as dynamite dynamic power. Then there is exousia which is power and authority. Think of a police officer... that badge and uniform gives her power to pull you over. But... if you resist... that gun strapped to her side gives her miracle working power.

Or, like Marilyn Hickey said... parents can give the babysitter the authority to tell the children when to turn the television off and go to bed. But, if the children resist... the switch or belt or paddle for spanking the kids’ bottoms is miracle working power that will get them to obey.

Jesus has given us miracle working power over anything that satan can cook up. Nothing shall in any way harm you. Just be sure to avoid those evil forebodings... those negative thoughts that close your hands from receiving God’s blessings.

When watching baseball, notice that the catcher’s mit is turned upward to receive. Lift your hands in submission... lift your voice in confession... and lift your heart in reception... and then allow God to do the great things that He has chosen to do in your life. Don’t be the monkey in the wrench that stands in the way of your own blessing... God is able to give, but you must be willing to receive.

Still Praying For the President

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Black Hills Harvest Crusade

Levi Lusko posted the following video as a recap of the successful crusade, with over 500 people accepting Christ as their Savior and Lord. Check it out...

Permission Denied

“Permission Denied” is one of the Psalms from the Pen of the Ready Writer written in Singapore. It is a celebration of the protective love of our Father in heaven through Christ Jesus our Lord!

It is a blessing to know that no matter how much satan wants to kill us, steal from us, and destroy us... he is limited in what he can do. As we focus our faith on the work that Jesus did on Calvary, we can rely upon the promises of John 10:10 and enjoy life in abundance, to the full, and until it overflows.

³¹Simon, Simon (Peter), listen! Satan has asked excessively that [all of] you be given up to him [out of the power and keeping of God], that he might sift [all of] you like grain, ³²But I have prayed especially for you [Peter], that your [own] faith may not fail; and when you yourself have turned again, strengthen and establish your brethren.

Luke 22:31-32 [AMP]

HE WHO dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand].

Psalm 91:1 [AMP]

The hunter is seeking a soul to drag down
Down into the pit of destruction
The lion is roaring, new prey he has found
but only if he has permission

The devil asked for me... but God said, “NO!”
“he’s covered by My Blood... you have to go!”
The devil pleaded... he begged... and he cried
Jesus repeated, “Petition Denied!”

The devil is waiting, refuses to quit
Just like a fly that keeps buzzing
he brings his battalion and bag full of tricks
but one little thing he’s forgetting

i’m covered by the Blood -- the Blood of Jesus
His Spirit lives within -- that’s how He frees us
And everyday i live in the Shadow of the Most High

The flames, they are raging and burning in hell
It’s filled to the brim yet, it’s growing
The devil desires to throw my soul in
but that’s not the way i’ll be going

The devil asked for me... but God said, “NO!”
“he’s covered by My Blood... you have to go!”
The devil pleaded... he begged... and he cried
Jesus repeated, “Petition Denied!”

When satan rears his ugly head, just let out a guffaw of holy laughter because you know that he is defeated by the blood of Jesus and by the word of your testimony.

Permission... denied!

Meditations from Judypie

Do you pray for others because you want them to change to make your life easier, or because you want God to be glorified? When you pray for others, pray for them with joy. When you pray for others you are restored to a spiritual tone of heart and mind. Probably few of us have been through as much as Job of the Old Testament. He lost everything, and was attacked physically. After many months he prayed for his friends. The Lord turned his captivity and restored his fortunes; also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. Let's pray for one another.

In the name of Jesus, I thank God for you—every time I pray. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Ephesians 1:16-23

---

Begin everyday with a smile, a glad heart and a happy, joyous spirit.

Father, I come before You rejoicing, for this is the day that You have made and I will rejoice and be glad in it. To obey is better than sacrifice, so I am making a decision to submit to Your will today, that my plans and purposes may be conducted in a manner that will bring honor and glory to You. Cause me to be spiritually and mentally alert in this time of meditation and prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Psalm 118:24; 1^st Samuel 15:22; Colossians 4:2

---

Heavenly Father, thank You for blessing the work of my hands. I can walk confidently fulfilling my destiny because You love, accept and approve of me. I am strong even though I feel weak, and my works shall be rewarded. I am steadfast, never giving up in the face of adversity. Because I am Your child and a partaker of Your divine nature, I will stand firm until Your will prevails and Satan’s plans have been demolished. In the name of Jesus, I affirm Your love for me. Amen

Scripture Meditation: Deuteronomy 28:12; 2^nd Chronicles 15:7; Ephesians 6:13-14

---

Praise God! Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory? Jesus, I know that my Redeemer lives -- you are risen from the dead, and I am risen with you. I set my heart on things above, where you are seated at the right hand of God. Thank you Jesus! I have this assurance that even as you were taken up from among us to heaven you will come back in the same way you left. When you appear I shall be like you -- awesome! Hallelujah! Jesus is Lord!

Scripture Meditation: 1^st Corinthians 15; Colossians 2:12; 3:1; Acts 1:11

---

“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)

---

You can turn fear out by declaring your faith in God's Word. Praying aloud will stop the tormenting thoughts. Believe God; He is faithful, and He watches over His word to perform it.

Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank you for delivering me from the fear of death. You are with me; I will not be afraid. You are my God, and I will not be dismayed. I have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear, but I have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. Amen.

Scripture Meditation: Hebrews 2:14-15; Isaiah 41:10; Romans 8:15; Psalm 34:4

“Crazy Mike”

We enjoy the opportunities we have had to worship at Horizon Christian Fellowship in San Diego with Pastor Mike Macintosh.

One of our favorite messages by Pastor Mike was on the subject of how Christ has given us freedom from sin. His emphasis was on the danger of ignoring God’s escape from the penalty of sin... His gracious gift of love through Jesus Christ our Lord.

²⁰For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. ²¹But then what benefit (return) did you get from the things of which you are now ashamed? [None] for the end of those things is death. ²²But now since you have been set free from sin and have become the slaves of God, you have your present reward in holiness and its end is eternal life. ²³For the wages which sin pays is death, but the [bountiful] free gift of God is eternal life through (in union with) Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:20-23 [AMP]

One favorite thing about Pastor Mike’s messages is his unique sense of humor.

During this particular Sunday, Mike told a joke about a Baptist man who lived in a Catholic neighborhood. He barbecued venison in his back yard every evening.

During Lent season, this drove his neighbors crazy because they were not allowed to eat meat during Lent. This went on year after year and was a great frustration to these folks.

Finally, they called their priest and asked him to convert the Baptist man. After a few days, the man went to the Catholic church where he had his first mass. The priest sprinkled him with holy water and said, “You were born a baptist... you have lived as a baptist... but you are now a catholic.”

Later, on a Friday evening, his neighbors were eating fish when they smelled the BBQ going with venison on it. Upset, they called the priest. The priest grabbed his rosary and went to chastise the man for eating venison on a Friday.

The priest arrived in the man’s backyard and saw him sprinkling holy water on the BBQ and saying, “You were born a deer... you have lived as a deer... but today you are a catfish.”

Some people think they can just do a little “sprinkle” and continue to live the old sinful lives that they had always lived. But if we will truly give our lives to Christ and turn away from our sins, we can experience true Freedom.

Catch Pastor Mike and other great ministers at: Horizon Christian Fellowship .

Worship Together

Sweet Sweet Sound

This song from new worship leader Sarah Reeves helps to remind us that our worship is more than just the songs that we sing on Sunday mornings - it truly is a lifestyle. Learn how to play the song in this week's New Song Cafe and then download Free Sheet Music for "Sweet Sweet Sound."

New CD: 7 Songs for $5

With zealous faith and a love of music beyond her years, nineteen-year-old Sarah Reeves is a worship leader who's voice breaks through directly to the heart of each worshipper. Sarah's vision and heart to lead people in worship no matter the setting is revealed through her fresh, honest and redemptive sound. Creating music that will be sung in churches for many years to come, it is clear after experiencing her music how Sarah is quickly becoming a new voice for worshippers around the globe. Lyrics that are authentic, engaging and humble, Sarah's music finds a way to reach people exactly where they are at. Get her debut EP now for less than $5!

Attention

Marked by the same multi-layered, no-boundaries song crafting that make Kristian's live performances unforgettable, ATTENTION offers a stunning, eleven-song collection of fist pumping rock worship anthems, shimmering pop ballads, and reverential hymns.

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WorshipTogether.com | PO Box 5084, Brentwood, TN 37024-5084

Hooker for Jesus?

WARNING DISCLOSURE: If you are under 18, please ask permission from your parents to read this story.

What??? Did I read that right? What is a “Hooker for Jesus?” I am going to be real honest and candid on this site, so if you are tired of lies and want the truth, BUCKLE your seatbelts and hang on! I believe in being REAL. Please read this story, and I will explain everything to you... because...

EVERYTHING THAT WE KEEP HIDDEN HAS POWER OVER US!!!

I was a prostitute in the escort services in LAS VEGAS, (the public calls it “HIGH CLASS CALL GIRL”) in the casinos, on the street, and I was an exotic dancer in the clubs. I did everything that you can imagine, saw and met people that I would never have thought would have even “ordered” a girl. MANY of them were very famous stars and influential people in society... I lived this lifestyle for over 11 years... and it just didn’t happen overnight.

It all started when I was a little girl. I never felt really loved; there was abuse in my family that lowered my self-esteem to the degree that I became desperate for love. I tell you, I felt very rejected and broken-hearted all the time. When you are told a certain thing you are as a child, you tend to believe it. Point blank, I couldn’t love my self, or anyone else for that matter--I didn’t feel that I deserved it.

My first sexual experience happened with a close friend of mine when I was eight years old. I didn’t know this was abuse at the time, but the truth of the matter is that I was violated. As a “family duty” I went to church every week, but because of the hypocrisy in the church and in my home, I couldn’t really believe God was real, so I hid my secret and feelings inside me. I could not trust anyone.

Relationships? Huh!!! Couldn’t manage to keep ANY because I was so messed up on the inside. As I grew up, I went to seven different schools because our family moved around so much. It was very difficult, and coming to each school as the “new” girl wearing garage sale clothing...well let’s just say that kids back then could be very cruel if you were not rich, popular, and “perfect.” When you are brokenhearted, what is your definition of love? My self-worth was defined by looking for love in all the WRONG places, in WRONG people. You get the picture--nightclubs, drinking/drug parties, hanging out in bad parts of town--listening to wrong (sexually perverted) types of music and TV, reading “fashion” magazines. Believe it or not, this had such a HUGE influence on me!

In high school it was considered “cool” to have sex. Even though this seemed true I still was a virgin at 18. It did not last long, for my boyfriend at that time convinced me that if we had sex we would become so much closer and he would “love” me more. I was 18 years old and knew NOTHING about the consequences of sex before marriage! I only slept with him because I didn’t want to lose him! I loved this man and wanted to get married...but unfortunately he had an appetite for other woman and we broke up. Why did he lie to me??? I didn’t get it! I was DEVESTATED!!! I remember coming home after the break up, crying uncontrolably to my mother, and she said to me, “Annie, you where your heart on your sleeve.” I wanted to kick him to the curb because...MY HEART WAS BROKEN! It was at that moment I decided to REBEL!

I was the “party girl”! This is when the first of many rapes happened... In the process I became even more hurt, bitter, angry, rejected, LONELY, but most of all, more desperate to find the TRUTH.

I was always chasing just to belong, hungry for acceptance, just to be loved. If you told me I was beautiful, I wouldn’t believe you. I didn’t see that when I looked in the mirror. I had to wear a mask continually... pretending everything was “okay.” My belief was that if I just put on a pretty smile, everything would be alright. But it wasn’t. I kept burying my pain deep inside me. I just kept searching and experimenting, no matter WHAT the cost.

I might not look like it, but I did it ALL, I tell you the truth! Prostitution,(street & high class call girl) exotic strip dancing, nude modeling, drugs of every kind, sex addiction, cutting, abortions--yes and miscarriages, masturbation addiction, pornography, dominance mistressing addiction, bisexuality, men addiction, gambling, binge drinking, smoking, bulimia, and JAIL TIME... just to name a few...

I first got “turned out” in Hawaii, then went back to work in Minnesota as an escort, then an exotic dancer, and eventually that led me to Las Vegas, where the temptation of even BIGGER money tugged at my desires. I thought I could go to Vegas and get in and out quick... leave with my fortune so I could finally go to music college (never could afford it). Little did I know what would REALLY happen with the choice that I had just made. I was in for the most dangerous ride of my ENTIRE life. What was intended to be six months turned into a NIGHTMARE lifestyle of over 11 long years...

You have to remember that ANYTHING out of balance will destroy you...and this was a life that I had PERSONALLY chosen (sex, drugs, and rock n roll) because I wanted to fill that “emptiness” inside of me. No one “twisted” my arm! My intense hunger and need for love would eventually consume me like a fire...

The allure and the “illusion” of the Las Vegas lifestyle of glamour, money, and sex had pulled me in the first moment I stepped off the plane. The “strip” looked so enticing and exciting... and the way that each casino flashed with sparkling lights on the outside beckoned at me with a voice saying, “Come in, Annie and find what you have been missing!!!” With all the elaborate lighting, gambling, and even the thought of the possibility of meeting a very wealthy client that would “rescue” me... well, I COULDN’T RESIST IT!!! You know, we all want to be “Pretty Woman” like Julia Roberts and have a prince come take us away, right?

Here is the truth: I never started out completely hating this industry... in fact, I actually liked it because it gave me a sense of security--it made me feel glamorous and powerful. There was a certain “honeymoon” phase that I went through as a high-class call girl. The money, presents, parties, traveling, dinners, famous people calling... I really got lost in the “hype” of the moment! After all, everyone wants that “bling bling” lifestyle, right??? But... everything that is superficially attractive has a “hidden” evil.

Here is the OTHER truth people don’t want you to hear... that “glamorous” lifestyle took its toll on me, and that sense of security that I had... it turned out to be FALSE and I started slowly falling apart. Even though I looked like on the outside I had everything I ever wanted... inside of me was dying. I would make money, give it away thinking it would buy me love, and then when that didn’t work I would buy myself material things so I could feel “important” and “loved” on the inside. This went on for many years... and guesses what? If I DID get that happy feeling it was only temporary... and then it started to turn into deep sadness because I knew no matter what I did to make myself “feel” better, it just wasn’t working!

I can’t tell you how many nights I slept “alone” with a man in my bed. No one knew my secrets, my pain, and my inner shame. So in the end I hated being a prostitute and exotic dancer--and no matter what people will tell you about that lifestyle, it really does rip you apart until you have absolutely NOTHING left--and, you will lose your soul in the process!

Without even realizing it, I had become a slave to the sex industry... but no one at the time could point that out to Fallen (me), for she had made the choice to do it on her own.

Nightmare clients??? No, way, that only happens in movies!!! At first I thought I was invincible... that nothing or no one could ever hurt me. After all, I worked for a “high class” escort service, right? Well it wasn’t true and I had to find out the hardest way possible... for my first of many rapes as a call girl was by gunpoint. Many times I was tied up, kept hostage, beat into submission. This should scare a girl, right? Well it did more than you can imagine--I started to feel terrified and paranoid every time I knocked on the door of a new client. I even feared that the next door that would open to my knocking would be my last! I had so much anxiety because of this!!! Sex for money is NOT pleasurable, it is NOT fun, us girls DO NOT enjoy it--in fact there were many times I just wanted to hurt the man that was touching me! This is why it was easy for me to be a dominatrix... I had to be the best actress all of time just to make sure I got paid--men actually thought I enjoyed what I did. How could men think this? It was a flat out LIE! This is SEXUAL ABUSE in its worst form--a jail cell of your mind. When you are with so many men day in and day out... the job of escorting becomes your own “personal” prison.

Many times I just wanted to die when I went to sleep at night after I worked, I felt so dirty, sleazy--I felt had no way out--because...who would actually RESPECT me or let alone LOVE ME if they found out what I did for a living? NO ONE, and I mean NO ONE knew except for my associates that were also “call girls”. So I kept it my secret of being an escort the WHOLE time I was in it. Even the limelight tempted me...but because of the shame associated with sex for money I would not submit to it. Many times during the porn conventions the porn producers would call the escort services and ask me to “make a porno”....but I never did it because my I wanted to keep my “escort lifestyle” VERY hush hush.

As I hid in the “underworld” of Las Vegas, my SELFISH desires to feel better drove me to do things that I would have NEVER done otherwise--had I not been so deeply injured on the inside. I wanted to get back at men somehow...and if I could “use” them like they “used” me, I thought this would make things EVEN for my pain. We sometimes do crazy things just to block what we are feeling... Devastation!! Guilt!! Pain!! But mostly SHAME!!!

I was beaten, raped, kidnapped, strangled, suffocated, guns put in my mouth, hair cut off, tied up, gagged, put in trunks of cars, bones broken, spit on, kicked, pushed, stalked by crazy men, and during that time I WAS PIMPED for five years.

This was done to the extent that I didn’t even know who I was anymore... I literally became the alter ego named “Fallen” because she was strong, she could handle all of it without mental damage, she could get up after being punched and “knocked out” with no problem... right? She HAD to take over... because she was the only one at the time that could keep that little girl Annie alive...

I never knew that I would ever be pimped... in fact I was against it and knew that I never actually wanted one. But I fell in love with mine before I even knew he was a pimp, and because I wanted to prove my love, I decided to try the “game” and give it a chance. I thought, it couldn’t be all that bad, like the TV and media portrayed, could it? Just like before, I had to learn the hard way! It didn’t matter how many times that I was mistreated I NEVER got used to it. But I would not leave because I was so in love. Every time it happened, a piece of me (Annie) died and “Fallen” would get stronger. I wanted him to brag to the other “old school” pimps that I was “the best girl he had ever had!”

The truth is this, I would have DIED for him... and was willing to go where no one would go, just to make him happy so he would love me and KNOW that I was DOWN for him! I never let anyone know that he was my “pimp” but would get dirty looks when I was with him... I experienced prejudice in a real way! This hurt me and it drove me to even stand up for him. I wanted to prove that people’s thoughts were wrong about pimps--and that they didn’t know the REAL story of why they chose this profession.

What I am positive about is that there was NEVER intended harm to me on my pimp’s part... he would continue to apologize to me and I would continue to forgive him. I couldn’t help it! I always wanted to somehow “rescue” him believe it or not! I felt sorry for him because of the sever abuse he experienced when he was a little child. When I say rough, I mean he REALLY had it tough as a boy. He did not have a father growing up either... and I believe because of this he didn’t know any other way...Tell me, what does a boy with no father learn in the streets when “the streets” are his family?

HURT PEOPLE HURT PEOPLE!!!

Do you even KNOW what REAL pimping is like? IT IS NOT THE PERSON DOING IT! IT IS THE SPIRIT OF LUST MONEY AND POWER CONTROLLING THEM!

“THE DEVIL IS A PIMP DON’T BE HIS HO” (quote from Minister RMB of “Don’t Be Pimped”)

Isn’t it a tragedy that everyone uses this “PIMP” term so lightly on our TV, media, and music? Some people think it is okay to “throw” this around in daily conversation. Is the media teaching our young men that it is okay to use and degrade women, that it is cool/profitable to be a pimp?

You want REAL TRUTH??? Women are NOT robots, we do not enjoy the “sex” acts, nor slavery that comes with selling your body...we have feelings and cannot just “shut them down” while we are/were prostitutes. We hurt, we bleed, and we cry...we are sisters, mothers, daughters, friends, cousins, nieces, LITTLE GIRLS.

It seems so easy to get angry at the pimps, doesn’t it? But we have to remember that the only way that we are going to win them and help them out of their lifestyles is to love them. Love ALL of these men without severe judgment and look beyond what they are doing!!! These men need to wake up and see that they are controlled by the DEVIL because HE IS THE REAL PIMP! They are being used and TRICKED just like the girls! I also believe that the call on these men’s lives to be leaders, teachers and preachers has been sidetracked by this “pimping” lie. IT IS A COUNTERFEIT FOR THEIR DESIRE FOR SUCCESS!!! That their REAL destiny is something so powerful--something they couldn’t even imagine, because it would change the very world that we are in. I KNOW this, because I see this possible POSITIVE future in my X-pimp. I can talk this talk, believe me!

I did finally leave my pimp...but I had another tragedy come into my life. I got really sick--I developed Hodgkin’s lymphoma CANCER while I was still working. The doctors say that this type of cancer can be caused by severe emotional trauma and a feeling of low self-worth. I was told that I was in stage two of the cancer... I had lymph nodes in my neck and lungs FULL of tumors... and my chances of beating it were not very good. Did I give it up then??? NO! I was in denial of why it was happening to me. I then had to go through CHEMO and RADIATION for two years!!! I lost ALL my hair--and I would actually go on escort calls wearing wigs! It was awful because I was bald, not to mention VERY sick- but I had to pay my cancer bills! I would have to take care of my client and then run to the bathroom and vomit afterwards, trying to hide the tears the whole time. Do you think I would have “woken” up, then? Nope. I continued to work despite how sick I was. After all, I had to PROVE to everyone and myself that I could make it without anyone’s help... that I could take care of this little girl and she would be all right!

Why wasn’t this lifestyle working for me? I will tell you why! The more I let men “buy” me in exchange for sexual favors, the more I saw that they were only after one thing--my body... just like a piece of meat for sale with a UPC code on it. Not my mind, not my spirit, not who Annie was, but “Fallen,” the fallen angel. I even fell into my client’s way of thinking, that if I gave people that I loved money they would love me back! (Not sexually, either;) So, in a sense, I too became the “trick.” Hence my reason for having my pimp and numerous “boyfriends” that allowed me to work. But did they REALLY love me? Did they really have my future welfare in mind? Did they think this lifestyle was okay to be in? If so, then why wouldn’t they REALLY take me out of it? What it REALLY got down to was this: what was everyone’s HIDDEN AGENDA? Were they being nice to me because they wanted something from me--my body--or my money??? No one wanted the REAL Annie, the girl who had hopes and dreams, the girl that was intelligent--the girl that was a singer, an artist, a friend, a daughter, and a little girl. This brought me such a feeling of emptiness that I was so desperate to fill!

Then something very tragic happened... my sister died at a very the very young age of 31 (she was my BEST friend!) my Uncle Richard died, my Grandpa Osgar died, and my dad had cancer--all within a period of five months! So as you can imagine, I was pretty mad at God and I wasn’t sure if he was even real. When I say I was mad, I mean, I was angry... and not sure if I would make it. I thought “why would he put me through all this if he really loves me?” Then I started feeling so guilty and thought that I was being “punished” for living the lifestyle that I chose... so I thought that I actually deserved having cancer, I felt so sorry for myself. I felt that no one wanted to take care of me--no one even cared that I was sick. That thought made me even MORE rebellious and I thought that everyone “owed” me something. So I kept working because I didn’t want to come out of prostitution with nothing to show for it. (Could that be pride?)

Believe it or not, after I was cured of the cancer, I started doing drugs. You would think that I would have had enough pain and shock by experiencing cancer! To tell you the truth, there was a type of pain inside me that was far worse than the physical pain of being sick. My heart was breaking, my will to keep fighting was dying, and the repetitive abuse of verbal, physical and sexual assault was catching up with me as I was an escort! At first I did pain killers that were prescribed to me for cancer and back pain. I did not consider myself addicted, for I was taking what was only allowed by each prescription...right???

As my mind and body started to become altered and “numbed” for the pain, my proud claim of “I would NEVER do drugs!” became a lie! I was then tempted with the drug even the DEVIL himself does not want--COCAINE!!! Even though I was flat out against it for all of my life, I decided to try it because of a dare at a girlfriend’s birthday party. I was INSTANTLY addicted! That led to other things on a DEEPER DOSE and level--pain pill addiction, (OXY-CONTIN, LORCETS, LORTABS), somas, Xanax, valium, METH, smoking, and drinking. I became a gambleholic eventually because of the excessive drugs--I could never gamble sober! I would sit at the casinos after work and “zone out” on a poker machine for hours... sometimes days, trying to “win” my money back. Pretty soon it carried over into work; I no longer could work the escort services sober. I ALWAYS had to do a line or pop pills before I walked into a room. So I would work, make money, give it all away. Day in and day out--this was a road that had no end that I could see.

I was a walking time bomb--ready to explode. What could happen next? I tried all kinds of different “beliefs” like vampirism, Wicca, Buddhism, free masonry, new ageism, etc. But NOTHING filled that “void” inside me.

But destiny had it’s way with me...I met this man on a call on in 1992, he was VERY sweet to me--and over the years we kept in contact with each other and became very good friends. He actually was instrumental in getting me to quit... and I did, in 1998, but I still did not have God in my life. We lived a fast life in the “corporate” business world, flying back and forth to Japan; we had expensive sports cars, jewelry, houses, nice bank account, etc. I should have been extremely happy--but I wasn’t. I didn’t realize it at the time but I had what doctors call POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER...

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, what is it? It is a tragic psychological condition often called “shell shock” and “post rape syndrome”. Did you know that 69 percent of war veterans get this condition after witnessing and experiencing traumatic events from war??? Did you also know that people in the SEX INDRUSTY have the SAME exact percentage??? (69%) Here I was... out of the industry but inside my mind a continual battle was going on of the events I had experienced as a prostitute!

P.S.T.D. brought me night terrors, nightmares, insomnia, memory flashbacks, memory lapses, asthma, clinical depression, loss of appetite, anxiety attacks--so bad I got hooked on Xanax--could NOT function without it. Even the “square” world had me thinking that I was a failure--for at the end of our company’s closing, we lost EVERYTHING. I had quit drugs for a few years, and thought I really had it together until the corporation failed. And there I was doing coke again, but this time FREE BASING it--I could not get “high” enough for all the personal disappointment and pain inside of myself. I used to laugh at crack addicts as they would search on the ground for their little “rocks.” BUT HERE I WAS DOING THE VERY SAME THING I MADE FUN OF!!! I HAD REALLY REACHED “ROCK BOTTOM” --LITERALLY!!! I learned that you cannot make fun of something that you have NO CLUE about!

Was this a relapse? I would stay up for days on end getting so drunk and high, then pass out on my floor in my walk in closet in my million dollar home, with my drugs, wine and cigarettes to keep me company. I would wrap myself in my mink coat and rock back and forth...terrified of my past... but more afraid of my future. How would I face my family? How would I face my friends? Who was I, and what had I become? Did I mess my life up so bad that I would never have a real existence? A real family, a job, a home??? Was I just a junkie, a prostitute, a worthless piece of trash? With tears and mascara running down my face, I would cry... “God where are you? I’m messed up God, why me? I’m mad at you, God! You said you loved me! Why is this happening to me?” I was so lonely, and often I would write letters to my deceased sister Diana asking her why she had to die... then I would get mad at God and write a letter to Him, asking Him why I had to suffer so much--my tears smearing the very page I was writing on. I felt so alone, yet I knew somewhere far far away was God’s soft presence trying to pull away the cobwebs of my damaged soul and bring me back to Him.

Could I have possibly over estimated my own strength and endurance??? Was it hard to admit to others that I was really falling apart, and that I couldn’t handle this pain on my own? WAS IT EVEN HARDER FOR ME TO ADMIT IT TO MYSELF?

Over the years I had seven friends that have died from the sex industry, one died in her cab of a drug overdose, one was shot point blank in the face in a whore house, one was strangled in a hotel room and put in a suitcase, one was stabbed to death by her client, the other got killed in jail, another just recently died of bladder cancer, and another just died of AIDS--and I KNOW there could of been a better way. The sex industry has sold the lie that this is a profitable profession and that the women love doing it...so if that is true, what would these women/men say if they were alive? That they loved working as a prostitute??? Not!!! Where is our line that we draw in the sand, people? When is enough really enough????

This “illusion” of materialism and sexual desire had finally gotten the best of me...and I snapped.

I had given up. I knew no matter what I did, nothing mattered to me anymore. I didn’t care what happened to me... I just wished that I could “fade” into nonexistence. I had so much pain, shame, GUILT and regret in my life that I just wanted to erase it one night. So literally took it too far--I overdosed on cocaine, alcohol, Xanax, pain pills, and somas. I took a hit of cocaine and I thought I was going to die; the pain in my chest was so scary--as I fell to the ground all I could see was my life flashing before me. I was in TOTAL DARKNESS, no light, no sound--just me and the feeling of real death. My ears were ringing really loud... the aloneness crept in like a black blanket--I had NEVER been so scared in all my life, it was literally HELL! I was frozen, I couldn’t move, I couldn’t see. I instinctively could only say the name of Jesus from my lips... “Jesus, I am sorry!!!” “Jesus. please, Jesus.” I thought, “NOOOO!! I can’t die like this, Jesus, if you are real, please give me another chance!!!” Now I had prayed this prayer before ONLY IN EMERGENCY and always wondered why God didn’t always hear me...and here was the difference--I REALLY MEANT IT AND SURRENDERED THIS TIME. As the sirens rang out from the ambulance, I prayed to Him that if He saved me I would tell the whole world about His salvation and who He is. Well, Jesus came to my rescue... THE MASK CAME OFF and that girl I used to be? --”FALLEN”--well, SHE DIED THAT DAY!

Truth was being revealed to me for the first time in my life! Shortly after I overdosed on cocaine, my dear friend that got me out of the prostitution game noticed that I was watching Joyce Meyer on TV... to be honest with you I was so drawn to her teachings... they spoke LIFE into my spirit. So that Christmas he bought me a few of her books. I started reading the Bible and her books and really getting filled with the truth... and the defining moment came when I heard Joyce say to the TV audience, “God loves you” and my heart completely melted!

WHAT? You mean, God loves ME????!!! After ALL THAT I HAVE DONE??? This was incredible! I never really understood that before, until I heard someone else tell me! Those very words struck a chord in me and stayed with me day and night. Then I did something back then I would have considered crazy, I ACTUALLY HAD THE NERVE TO BELIEVE IT! It is then that my walk with God became so much deeper than just the desperation of the overdose. I decided to take the leap of faith and completely dedicate my ENTIRE life to Him... JESUS. I gave it up, finally... all pain, all the disappointments, all the shame... ALL THE GUILT!!! Because trying to get better on my own WAS NOT WORKING. Guess what? I never turned back because...

I finally found the TRUTH, and it was not in some man, materialism, drug or fantasy. It is in a man that will never leave you nor forsake you. He is faithful, merciful, graceful, kind, but most of all he loves me for ME and NOT who I used to be!

He loves us unconditionally, and it doesn’t MATTER where we have been and how many wrong things we may have done. So you ask yourself, what kind of person could forgive what mess I’ve made???

His name is Jesus Christ. You see, I never really knew WHY I went through the pain I did until I received this revelation, that our God is so merciful, full of grace--that he really does love us, and He just wanted a relationship with me. He wanted me to ask Him for forgiveness, for if we do that, then we can FINALLY FORGIVE OURSELVES! I forgave myself from all the terrible things that I had done, and the yoke of bondage and guilt was “lifted” from my back.

Do you know what??? It is a CHOICE people!!! You will be FREE if you decide to not listen to the devil’s lies anymore and you choose to FORGIVE others, but mostly YOURSELF!!!

FREEDOM! No matter what we do wrong, HE continues to do what is right in our lives!

“IF WE ARE NOT FAITHFUL, HE WILL BE FATIHFUL. BECAUSE CHRIST CANNOT DENY WHO HE IS!!!” 2 TIMOTHY 2:13

I had focused my life on the bad choices; the pain, the guilt, the regret...and it eventually had the power to put me into a very deep “sleep”. Because I was so into my own demise and self pity, I lost all focus on what was really going on around me! I WAS LOST....LITERALLY!!! But when I finally WOKE UP from the slumber party that the world had put me in, I realized that I could actually use my pain to help others!!!

WOW. Are you kidding me? You mean I can take this mess that I have gone through and actually help someone else??? That’s POWERFUL!!! Your pain can be your reign! Jesus just wanted a relationship with me so He could show me a better life--but I ran from my pain, and started trying to find my “own” happiness. Don’t you see?

Most of us have all played this vicious game: RUN & CHASE. Chase after the things you think will make you “happy” and then run from them when you realize that these “things” or “lifestyle” is nothing but terrible pain. This will continue until you come to the very end of yourself. I KNOW I did it! When you have had enough... well, just HOW MUCH is enough, you ask???

I tell you the truth, the devil has NO limit--he will continue to deceive and manipulate your thinking until all you have left is NOTHING BUT THE TRASH OF EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE. This is his only mission, to DESTROY you.

“THE THIEF COMES ONLY IN ORDER TO STEAL, KILL AND DESTROY. BUT I CAME THAT YOU MAY HAVE AND ENJOY LIFE, AND HAVE IT IN ABUNDANCE TO THE FULL, TILL IT OVERFLOWS” JOHN 10:10

I didn’t know this verse at the time, I didn’t know the promises in God’s word that could save me from myself. So I remained broken hearted, hurt, defeated, depressed, tired, GUILTY... This is when God my Father could finally speak to me--because I stopped “chasing” happiness, I stopped “running” from the pain. Ever heard the song, “Running from the Devil”? How true is that? I ran from my home and my painful situation, only to run into more defeat. This is what we REALLY need to get: We need to run into the arms of God the Father and ask him for forgiveness... “BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD.”

He wants us to face our fears... so we can walk through the door we have been avoiding. It’s not locked. We just need to turn the knob and walk in. When we do this, we face our pain and THEN God can move to heal us! If you are fearful, THEN DO IT AFRAID! There will be a huge reward behind it. I am not saying that your new walk with God is suppose to be real easy, many times I have fallen BUT I GOT RIGHT BACK UP! God will help you walk your new life of freedom... Can you tell me something--could it get any worse than it is now?

How desperate do we all have to get people? Until were sick with cancer, addicted, depressed, until we die? Hey, take it from me, I tried BOTH worlds without God, the crime world and the corporate world--and NOTHING brought me JOY but God. If I could do it with as much “junk” as I went through... SO CAN YOU!

He put it all together for me...because... when you actually KNOW the truth about yourself, and WHY you’ve done what you’ve done, it sets you completely free! Sin becomes your personal prison if you don’t know this truth. My prison was the lie Satan told me that I was unworthy to be loved. Unworthy because of the bad things that I had done---LIAR! Ha! “Fallen” is dead devil... My secrets are out, and no longer can YOU torment me because--Whom the Son sets free is free indeed!! I am free and out of the cocoon sin put me in! Jail time YOU ARE OVER!!! I am now truly a BUTTERFLY... LOVED BY GOD--and you are too!

God really loves you...yes YOU the person that is living in defeat! Don’t let the devil steal your joy any longer! Ask Jesus into your heart and watch how He can radically change your life!

Do you really want to be free??? Then what are you waiting for? Just pray this prayer!!!

Dear Jesus, I come to you today and I ask you to save me. Lord I am asking you for a second chance...so make me brand new. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired, so I surrender everything to you! I ask that you forgive me for my short-comings and my all my failures. I believe that you died for my sins, and rose to life on the 3rd day. I believe that you are the living Son of God. Come into my heart and send your Holy Spirit, so you may be the Lord of my life. Change me from the inside out, so I may walk in the perfect destiny that you have for me. Thank you Jesus! Amen

“THEREFORE IF ANY PERSON IS IN CHRIST HE IS A NEW CREATION; THE OLD HAS PASSED AWAY. BEHOLD, THE FRESH AND NEW HAS COME”! 2 Corinthians 5:17

Finally, the MOST defining moment came in my life when Jesus came to me in a dream... He lifted His hands to me and held mine, and with inches away from my face we were looking into each others eyes... and can I tell you something... it was the most beautiful sight I have ever seen in my life! One eye was a beautiful sapphire blue and the other was a deep emerald green...with sparkles in them unlike anything I had ever seen before! As He looked at me with such tenderness and compassion, no physical words exchanged. The communication came directly from His very eyes!!! The eyes of the Savior told me He loved me, that He had always loved me...he understood my pain...but it was now OVER. That He has healed me... and that I am whole again... that I didn’t have to run anymore, that I was finally home. I felt so full of joy and inner peace for the first time in my life! As He turned, I followed Him around the corner and He was with two women... as I looked on to follow He turned towards me and gave me the biggest smile you could ever imagine. I knew by me choosing to NOT lose sight by following Him I had obeyed! I knew what I had to do... reveal my story to all the people I across the ENTIRE world and tell them of Jesus’ ever lasting grace. I have never been the same since...you want to know what??? My life now is full of purpose and real PASSION!

I am healed, whole and not ashamed of what I went through--in fact, it empowers me to help others! No bad thing I have done can EVER haunt me again. My real dad and I have reconciled our relationship! I love him and have always loved him--and he also loves me. I have forgiven my dad, for he only did what was done to him--and he finally saw this and apologized to me. The chain of fools is BROKEN! I have forgiven my pimp, and everyone else that I was offended with. I pray for my X-pimp everyday and know that God has a HUGE plan for him!

FORGIVENESS!!! Forgive and you will be set free!!!

Yeah! I will tell anyone that asks me, “Just why are you so happy?” And it’s not a secret. I’ve been saved by my Knight in shining armor--JESUS. But this, my friends, was God’s perfect plan...

“YOU INTENDED HARM TO ME, BUT GOD INTENDED IT ALL FOR GOOD. HE BROUGHT ME TO THIS POSITION SO I COULD SAVE THE LIVES OF MANY PEOPLE” Genesis 50:20

Now I can explain HOOKER FOR JESUS-- WHAT is a hooker for Jesus? Well, first of all, the meaning for “HOOKER” is a clipper style boat made for fishing in the 1600’s. Hooker also means a “fish hook”. I believe that God is tired of people thinking that this is such a “dirty” word...so I am taking the name back for HIM!

Also, I’m an X-HOOKER saved by the grace of God! The “X” just doesn’t mean that I have left that lifestyle... instead it stands for all the nameless prostitutes that are afraid to speak out--for my desire is that God uses me as their unheard voice. Someone needs to care! Someone needs to do something!

I WILL BE THAT PERSON TO ACT INSTEAD OF WATCH.

REAL FAITH IS ACTION!!!

Jesus showed me that if I could go down dark corridors and knock on doors to risk my life as a prostitute for the devil, I could CERTAINLY risk my life for Jesus instead! The greatest gift is when we lay down our lives for our friends...after all isn’t this what Jesus did for us???

You need a hook to catch fish......Jesus commands us to be fishers of men. “COME FOLLOW ME, AND I WILL MAKE YOU FISHERS OF MEN” (MATTHEW 5:19) I am ready to cast my line and hook--except this time I’m catching people for salvation with a Holy kind of bait--the gospel and testimony of Jesus Christ. “THE FRUIT OF THE UNCOMPROMISINGLY RIGHTEOUS IS A TREE OF LIFE, AND HE WHO IS WISE CAPTURES HUMAN LIVES FOR GOD, AS A FISHER OF MEN-HE GATHERS AND RECEIVES THEM FOR ETERNITY” Proverbs 11:30 (amp version)

My passion is to help PROSTITUTES, PIMPS, and STRIPPERS... ANYONE IN THE SEX TRADE to see that there is a REAL life waiting for them to finally live outside of the sex industry. If they should need assistance out of their lifestyle...I am here to help them with NO JUDGEMENT.

I have a ministry here in Vegas to help them by giving them love, peace and support during their transition. It’s called “HOOKERS FOR JESUS” (hookersforjesus.net)

I want to show them that God did not plan for them sell their body and soul but wants them to step into a HIGHER calling--their final destiny--a life of purpose! I am not ashamed to say that I was part of the statistics, because I know if I step out in truth, then maybe I will give other women real “HOPE” for their futures! To my Girls... We CAN overcome, we CAN survive, we CAN be productive in society, we CAN be loved finally--because...

“YOU HAVE OVERCOME, CONQUERED HIM (Satan) BY MEANS OF THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB AND BY THE UTTERANCE OF YOUR TESTIMONY, FOR YOU DID NOT LOVE AND CLING TO LIFE EVEN WHEN FACED WITH DEATH, HOLDING YOUR LIFE CHEAP TILL YOU HAD TO DIE FOR YOUR WITNESSING” Revelation 12:11 (amp version)

We can be pitiful or powerful in whatever we do--we make the choices. If we have the power to make a difference to change the world, then why don’t we do something now? Let’s make an impact in our lifetime--let’s ROCK! Because this is real TRUTH......LETS GO FISHING!!!

Copyright 2006-07. Annie Lobert. All Rights Reserved.