My Dad

Hi everyone,
Just wanted you to know that my dad passed away yesterday about 8:15 am. He slipped away without pain at the age of 87. The past several years have been difficult for him, both knees replaced, the same right hip replaced 4 times, a story in itself. The gradual dementia and Alzheimer's actually was a blessing because he could no longer remember his past, thereby removing the sting of incapacitation. A stroke June 10 of this year sealed the inevitable.

Like all of life if we dwell on the bad it will fester and bitterness will be the fruit. If we think on good things we will remain in peace. My Dad, though not Godly was a good man. He loved my mom, faithful to his wedding vows, a good example of fidelity to his family (5 boys and 1 girl) in this era of broken promises. He took pleasure in simple things, holidays with us, his family, football games, boating, parades and later in life his grand kids and great grand kids. He always loved to laugh, and was an artist at bathroom humor.

Early in my Christian life 40 years ago he and I had a conversation about God. He said he believed but I never saw fruit. When I finally was converted about 1982, he and I had another talk, this time I lead him in the sinners prayer, hoping with all my heart that he would enjoy the peace that God alone gives, yet again no fruit. I prayed for years until finally I received a word from God that me and my household would be saved. I still prayed but took comfort in hearing a promise that, while not written as a promise, God being no respecter of persons, what He did for one He would do for another.

Most recently after his first stroke, my brother Toms' daughter, Andrea, lead him in the sinners prayer again. I never saw a miracle, though God showed Himself faithful time and time again. Through out dad's entire ordeal he hardly ever complained of pain. About a month or two ago, my dad became fixated on having a talk with his family about God. He was so distressed that he called my sister Sue to talk about how he had not fulfilled his duty as the older to direct us about God. His entire life he never had any input about God other than sending us to a catholic school at my moms' insistence,though he never winced once at the cost. Sue set up a time for all of his family to meet but he could no longer remember his intention. But God does.

To who much is given much is required. My dad never received much of all that God is. He could not stop himself from using the name of the Lord in vain, though he did have a deep respect and reverence. I receive that "random thought" as a sign to something going on in his heart. Something between him and God never expressed to me. His failing mental capacities has kept him from using the Lords' name and racial slurs. Two things, on the not much given scale, that mean allot to me. I thank God for all who lifted up my Dad to God. Sarah, my oldest daughter just told me that she lifted her grandfather, by name, every day. While I suspect that many did, you never know until they speak. Thank you all for your love and compassion. All things work together for good to them that love God and are called to His purpose. I thank God for my dad being an example of faithfulness to my mom as Jesus was to the church.

Love, Joy, Peace and the Holy Ghost to you all!
Dave

Come To The Top

I thank God for the seasons in our life that He brings. For everything there is a time and a season under the heavens. Lately, I have been able to separate myself while at work, during lunch, on a daily basis. After having these opportunities to do so, I can now see why the Lord would have us to come before Him daily. We need to consume our daily bread from God. Below is what the Lord gave me yesterday during my time of prayer and worship during lunch (words in parentheses are understandings the Lord gave me during this time of separation):

Colossians 2:6,10
⁶As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord (in faith), so walk ye in him (in faith):
¹⁰And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power (there is nothing more than the Spirit of Truth living in us, we can be baptized with the same baptism that He was baptized with)

Those who desire for My will to be done in their lives must live on every word that proceeds out of My mouth. For it is by these words that your foundation is laid, line upon line, precept upon precept. Count all as loss, and take up up your cross and follow Me for those who know Me know that their reward is with Me. Just as I and the Father are one so are you one with us, for My Spirit does dwell in you. Be no respecter of persons, but I tell you let every word that is spoken by man be judged by My Spirit according to My word. Know you not that the rivers of living waters flow out of your belly? Do not hold back, but rather open your eyes to see that there are many who are thirsty and who do desire to drink of the pure waters. You are My vessels therefore I tell you, pour out.

(Servants of old had to wait on God to speak and pour out by His Spirit for they did not have the baptism of the Holy Spirit as we do now--rivers of living water flowing out of our bellies. Jesus said, "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he." (Matthew 11:11))

You are called and chosen for such a time as this. And I have preserved you and hid you until now. Even as I came to bring division, so do I send you. That when you speak the words that I lay on your heart, men will choose to hear and obey (the wheat) or choose against Me (the chaff). All you must do is speak, as I spoke, for they must choose who they will serve.

Come to the top of mountain, away from the sound of battle and the noise of the archers. Where the fullness of what I have for you is revealed and where the pure water is poured out. Come, take you place with Me this day, The battle is not yours. The battle is Mine.

Obedience is better than sacrifice.

I pray that God would be glorified in all of us and that we would never take anything He speaks lightly.

God bless,
Ryan

The Plumb Line

I received this word the other day while praying and this is what the Lord said:

Behold I shake the heavens and the earth. All creation shall bow before me and every tongue confess that I am God. To whom shall you boast yourselves and against whom to you make your sport? Is it not I the God of heaven and earth? Your work is in vain and I shall laugh you to scorn. Do I not see? Am I blind that I cannot find you? You pervert my ways and destroy my people. Let it come to mind this day the former days when I slew nations and the earth trembled at my presence. When I caused one to put a thousand to flight and two, ten thousand. I am the Lord and I am not mocked. I shall judge and none shall escape it. I have layed my plumb line upon the earth and what shall I find? The priests are perverted and the prophets seek their own gain. There is no knowledge of God in the land, and my people perish for lack of knowledge. My little ones have you killed and scattered, and my strong ones have forsaken their post and have gone a whoring from under me. Behold, I shall be the Shepard and whosoever follows me I shall keep, but whosoever will not follow me, him will I destroy. I will gather again that which was lost, I will bind up that which was broken and heal that which is sick. For of all that was given unto me, I have not lost one. Turn unto me my people, for who is exempt from my judgment? I come quickly, turn unto me and I will make your path strait.

1SA 2:1 And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.
1SA 2:2 There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.
1SA 2:3 Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.
1SA 2:4 The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.
1SA 2:5 They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.
1SA 2:6 The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up.
1SA 2:7 The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up.
1SA 2:8 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord's, and he hath set the world upon them.
1SA 2:9 He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.
1SA 2:10 The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed.

Today if you can receive it, I know the Lord would have us to check where we stand. There is no shame in it, it does not offend God to check where you stand for it is written be careful where you stand lest you fall. I know it is strong word and none would want to hear they are in error, or that they even might pervert his ways. Daily we must stand before God, daily we must be judged by his standard. The plumb line is layed and where does your life fall? If you don't know what the plumb line is, it is a measured piece of string with a weight at the end, and back in the day when they would build a building they would stand aways off with this plumb line and hold it to the edge or line of a building to see if it was strait, and because it was perfectly strait anything that was off that line they knew needed to be straitened. Gods holding the plumb line this day and we must hold it to our own lives. I pray this day we have an ear to hear, that we'd humble ourselves before God, that if we have become proud or boastful that this day the Lord would pluck the beam from our eye that we would not stumble. If this day you can see that you life does not meet this standard, if this day you have found yourself out of line with gods will, the Lord is saying return, return unto him. The Lord reminded me of a vision that I had a long time ago and the vision was this: I was standing over a dark valley over looking its vastness, you could see the the mountains beyond it, it was quite a sight. In the valley it was pitch black and all I heard were screams and weeping. it seem that this was the only way to get through to the mountains beyond. But for some reason I looked a little of to my right and I saw a sign that said " The way of wisdom" and I seen a bridge that spanned the length of the valley to the mountains beyond. God does not delight in the destruction of any man, he does not desire anyone to even have to go through that valley, but sometimes we don't look to that way, the way of wisdom even though we could have passed over in safety. We must look to him this day. If your in error, acknowledge it and repent, for today is the day of salvation, not tomorrow. You aren't promised tomorrow. If this day your doing all that God has called you to do, stand for it is written when all is said and done, stand. May God bless you and may we be found worthy to stand in the times to come.

Your brother in Christ,
Austin

Word from 11/12/07

Upon arriving at work two weeks ago, I was seeking the Lord for what he was saying to me to me that day. I recieved this word, and although short and quite personal concerning my walk, I considered posting it for its timelyness (if thats how you spell it).

Do not go back to the things I have taken from you. I have done this for a purpose, it will hold you back if you do (go back). Press in, put on the garment unspotted by the flesh. In times past I have looked away from your iniquities, but no more. You have been given the gifts you've been given for a reason. Your end is not for death but life eternal. Come Close.

Understanding:

The Lord was very short and to the point with me. Easily read, easily understood. Undoubtetly God has taken things from all of us, things unprofitable and things that will hold us back (Burn what you used to bury). In this time we cannot go back to them or who knows what we could miss out on. Also as Judgement begins in the House of The Lord we are under a greater responsibility with greater consequences. Where God used to wink he will now stare. The rest is simple and the end all encompassing, Come Close.

God Bless,
Alex

Be Perfect

As I was seeking the Lord today during lunch, He spoke this word. I did not plan on sharing it, but as I considered it this afternoon, I felt stirred that there may be some that need to hear it, even as I did:

I desire to use you for the glory of My name. Keep yourself unspotted from the world and go unto perfection that you would be blameless before men. This is what I require of those who will stand in strength in the days to come. Be holy as I am holy and be perfect as I am perfect. Those who have My Spirit and have ears to hear know that those who I have called to stand can accept nothing less. It is what I require of you. Seek to be last, to humble yourself before men always. Seek Me with a pure heart that you may become all things to all people, that some might walk on the path of righteousness toward perfection.

Seek not another man's ministry. Seek not to be lifted up or to have the approval of man. For many judge themselves by themselves and in doing so become unwise. I tell you seek after wisdom and get understanding that you may see the end from the beginning and that you would continue to walk on the path that is set before you, stumbling not.

Love to see others strengthened by the prayers of the righteous. Take joy in knowing that I the Lord hear your cries and do see to it that My word is performed, and that it is written on the hearts of men. Take all that I speak to you and consume it that nothing can keep you from the fullness of what I have for you.

Romans 8:18-39
¹⁶The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: ¹⁷And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. ¹⁸For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. ¹⁹For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. ²⁰For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, ²¹Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. ²²For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. ²³And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. ²⁴For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? ²⁵But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. ²⁶Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. ²⁷And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. ²⁸And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. ²⁹For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. ³⁰Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. ³¹What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? ³²He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? ³³Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. ³⁴Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. ³⁵Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ³⁶As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. ³⁷Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. ³⁸For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, ³⁹Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

God be glorified,
Ryan

Vision- The two Oxes

The Lord put me in remembrance of a vision I had a while back, and gave me more understanding for it.

In the vision, there were two oxen. They were both plowing the field. The one ox was following his master's orders with no problem. He only was thinking about what was before him to do, and that of course was listening to his master, and pulling the plow. The other ox was a stubborn ox. He didn't trust in his master. He thought only about the shelter, food, and water that he left behind and did not have faith that his master would provide for him. He keeps looking back to the place in which he came from.
The understanding of the vision was that we need to be about our father's business. All that we have should be for God's cause. Like the scripture, we need to put our hand to the plow and never look back. Concentrate on what God has put before us. If it be a trial, praise God. If it be a time of rest, praise God. A time to speak, or to be silent, praise God. Praise him for all the seasons because he is worthy of all praise, and he brings only blessings for those who love and serve him. He would never put on us more than we can bare. If we do not trust in God with all that we have, internally and externally, then we are doubting God. Do we think that God is a man that he would lie to us, or do we believe that all his promises are true. Stubbornness is a form of pride, and God hates pride. God can not, and will not work with a prideful person. Stay humble in all our ways. Be humble on the inside first, before God, and the humble person on the outside will soon show. We must make sure that our hearts and minds are right before God, because God judges the heart of a man. A person could give millions of dollars to charities, follow God's commandments, but if the man does not know Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior, then that man has nothing. Our hearts have to be right and we have to follow God's voice, even when we don't think its the best way to go. His will be done, not ours.
God bless, Chad

Throwing in the Towel

Throwing in the towel derives from the sport of boxing, where the towel used by seconds (managers, trainers or medics) to wipe sweat from their man between rounds was literally thrown into the ring to concede defeat. Before towels came sponges and in the earlier sport of prizefighting a boxer's corner would indicate a concession by 'throwing up the sponge'.


Remember Rocky IV; Drago (the big Russian) throws a crippling right hand that sends Apollo reeling. Drago remorselessly batters Apollo with a series of devastating punches, leaving him bloodied and battered at the end of the round. Rocky pleads with him to quit the fight, but Apollo refuses to give up, despite the punishment he's taken. The match ends in tragedy in the second round as Drago brutally smashes the very life out of Creed. Duke (Apollos' manager) begs Rocky (also in Apollos' corner) to throw in the towel, but Apollo refuses to let him, pridefully diving back into combat. The big Russian is momentarily stunned, but he starts launching blow after blow. Rocky seeing what is to come, cocks his arm to throw in the towel, but to late. Following one final hard punch, Creed drops lifelessly to the canvas.

1 Corinthians 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
7But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

The wounds of real life can be far more painful than than any movie. They don't go away by the next scene. And though the actor may die in the film, some how he is fine for the next production. Emotional wounds leave scars that can be painful for a lifetime. Those wounds can leave a person insecure and fearful to move on to the sequel, "My Life II, Life in the Spirit".

It seems that when one becomes born again, all the past becomes so distant, and the present life is so free and burden less by comparison that one can easily understand what being free from the burden of sin is. In this new life we continue on and grow in wisdom and truth. We seek the truth and fullness of God's word and ask for the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, and God is faithful. More growth, more wisdom, a little maturity and we feel ready to do battle. We didn't know that the opponent was vicious, mean and wants to kill us.

We get in to the ring (Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.) and take a pounding (Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:), hoping that we can make it to the first bell (God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.). We are shaken and unsure, we thought that we were ready for a fight, but here we are, end of round one and already cut and bleeding. It hurts. The towel is right there, all that we have to do is throw in the towel and the fight is over. We have two kinds of people in our corner, both love us. One, the earthly, say, you have done enough, look what this religion has got you, I love God to, He doesn't want you upset, let it go, this fight is meaningless (though they have never fought or know what victory means). The second in your corner is a Godly fighter themselves, they know firsthand the temptation to say, I quit. They, themselves have been battered in the spiritual warfare in this life. They understand that life itself is less important than the victory. They have compassion, and feel your pain, but they hold fast to the promise of victory (If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believes.).

You get a breather, you feel somewhat better (they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.). Your opponent looks even larger than when you first started, and not even tired (Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knows that he hath but a short time.). You eye the towel, a sign of defeat a sign of quiting. The bell for round two sounds. It's not a slow start like round one, your opponent is in your face, right now. He is taunting you, trying to psych you out, rob you of any strength you have. You didn't even phase him in round one, didn't lay a glove on him. He goes for your head, going for a knock out (I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.). You let your guard down, bam, a right to the jaw, the enemy wasted no time in exploiting your mistake (If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.), your head is spinning (God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.). You think to yourself thank God for a head like iron (helmet of salvation). Pow, a left jab to the nose, this punch has put down many as it draws blood, many pull back at the sight of their own blood (I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,). From within comes a voice, you have set your face like flint, no permanent damage. The enemy sees that your head is a hardened target, better go for the body. The bell.

The towel is used to wipe your face. It now turns red with blood and sweat, it looks bad, but keep if close, it may save me from pain (the flesh has spoken).You are thankful for all your training (faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God, you are prepared, feet shod, girded with truth). From your corner, a little drink (Blessed are they who hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.) and washing the sweat and blood from your face (Christ loved the church, and gave himself for it, that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word). You begin to feel and look normal, a few deep breaths and think, this is do able(The Lord will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Him because he trusts in Him.). Round three bell. Your enemy now circles, jabbing, probing looking for your weakness. Because you fared well, so far, your guard is down (shield of faith), repeated blows to the body happen so fast you don't even have time to react. You real from the onslaught, you can't breath, very real pain (For from now there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution, rejected in your own church). Out of nowhere, a round house to the eyes, your stunned, a quick head butt by the enemy, who never fights fair, and knows just how dirty he can fight (he was a liar and murderer from the beginning). You wonder why did this happen to me, why didn't the ref stop him, does some one have that towel ready to throw, I don't know how much more I can take. Ah, but the ref did see and stops the fight to give a warning, if that happens again the fight is over I will award the fight, play by the rules (For with stammering lips and another tongue will God speak to this people.This is the rest wherewith you may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing). Its just the comfort you need. The ref comes to you and asks, are you alright ?, go to your corner and have your (heavenly) trainer check your eyes (Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye, I have been here before you I do see clearly). Now you can clearly see. Resume the fight, you say to yourself, don't drop that guard ever again (shield of faith). A few more blows blocked and the bell sounds.


You think though your errors (There is a way which seems right to a man, but the end are the ways of death.), because of the foul of the enemy, and the additional timeout you actually feel quite refreshed (We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.). A little more water and a quick wash (Lord forgive me for not having faith). Your managers says you have been taking a beating, keep your guard up and your now over-confident opponent is ripe for attack, go on the offence. You say within your self, All things are possible to them that believe ( If I live after the flesh, I shall die: but if I through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, I shall live. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.). A quick check, I'm okay, nothing broken (We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.), I took his best shot (Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave you, nor forsake you. In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.). Alright (your up on you feet now), lets do this, I'm going to finish this fight (And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.). A final word to your corner before the bell, DO NOT THROW IN THE TOWEL (Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God? Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him.). Your earthly corner says, you'll never make it, this guy will kill you, throw in the towel, come back to me, all will be the same. Your heavenly corner says, A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come to you, know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD's, Blessed is the man that trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, for this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil, for such a time as this you are come to the kingdom.

The bell sounds, round four, the enemy is down at your first blow ,"What has darkness to do with light, the Lord rebuke you". You realize, I was not warring with flesh and blood, my real fight was within myself. The Spirit of God vs unbelief, doubt and fear with my mind. The voice I listen to is the one that wins. Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.Mark 3:25 And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. If I had thrown in the towel I would have been giving into a lack of faith; Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that comesto God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Joshua 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Ephesians 6
10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

L,J,P&HG
Dave

Vision- The Path of Life - revised

A few days ago I posted the vision I had about the "path of life." Part of the understanding I had was wrong and I apologize. I said, "Next, is the river and it is of God. Its the baptism of the Holy spirit. Sadly, many people stop at that point. They feel good because they chose to walk the path, but they don't want to continue because they are content with what they have. They are Comfortable. They might dip their toe in the water, but they won't dive in. Why would God put it there if it wasn't for us? Embrace it, and once you have it, cherish it. It shall teach you all things, and you will have no need of any man to teach you because it will lead you into all truth.
I have had visions and understandings before about the Holy spirit being a river and so without praying about it, I just wrote my previous understanding of what a river represented to me . The understanding I had originally is true in itself, however not true in this vision. The understandings in this vision represent not the steps in a Christian walk, but just the walk itself.
After reading Dave's comment on it, I began to pray about the vision and talked about it with a brother in the Lord and realized the river is a place of cleansing and rest. When people get to this point on their walk, its still true that a lot of them stop here because they are comfortable. They see the path continuing on the other side but they are content with what they have. They could decide to just sit in the water and let it carry them downstream to who knows what. They could even try to walk upstream. When a Christian gets to this point, they should use it for what its there for, and then move on in faith.
While praying and talking about it with the brother in the Lord, I had more understanding in the vision. The hills that were before me in the start of the vision represent trials. When I was in the forest there was a path to follow, and I could not see much beyond the forest. Now that I was out of the forest there was no path, but I would take each step with faith. I would acknowledge him in all my ways, and he would direct my path. (proverbs 3)
Another understanding I had was about the trials themselves. Going up the hill its a lot harder than going down. However when you are going up the hill and you slip, its easier to catch yourself because you have your hands to help you. When you reach the top, you could run down fast, but it would not be wise. If you slip when you are coming down the hill, its a lot easier to fall, and when you fall it is going to hurt a lot more because you probably would fall on your backside. The understanding the Lord gave me was, pride comes before the fall. We have to stay humble always, and acknowledge God in everything that we do.
I apologize again and I hope that the vision is clear now and that I didn't confuse anybody.

God Bless, chad

When God Fails You.

Most everyone who knows of Hillsong had heard this wonderful song;

Oh Lord You've searched me, You know my way, Even when I fail You, I know You love me, Your holy presence, Surrounding me, In every season, I know You love me, I know You love me, At the cross I bow my knee, Where Your blood was shed for me, There's no greater love than this, You have overcome the grave, Your glory fills the highest place, What can separate me now, You go before me, You shield my way, Your hand upholds me, I know You love me, At the cross I bow my knee, Where Your blood was shed for me, There's no greater love than this, You have overcome the grave, Your glory fills the highest place, What can separate me now? You tore the veil, You made a way, When You said that it is done, And when the earth fades, Falls from my eyes, And You stand before me, I know You love me, I know You love me, At the cross I bow my knee, Where your blood was shed for me, There's no greater love than this, You have overcome the grave, Your glory fills the highest place, What can separate me now?

Have you ever had God sing you a song? Has God ever expressed His love for you, personally?
First you would have to believe that God does talk to us, others wise no matter what He said it would only be a happy thought. But lets say that God, Jesus through the Holy Spirit does converse with us, His sons and daughters, after all whats so difficult to believe, you talk to people you love. Acts 2:16But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 18And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:. What else should we think? God talking to man. If your first thought is, I'm not worthy, join the club. If your second thought is not, God made me worthy, you may never know what a great gift God has bestowed on man. Why? To ignore so great a gift, we remove ourselves from the presence of God.

God has spoken to me, literally, many times, in different ways; Dreams, visions, words, the Holy Spirit witnessing words others have spoken as truth, confirming others dreams and visions and of course the written word, out of my belly (such as it is) has flowed living water and twice by song. Of all my encounters with my Father, my elder Brother, the Holy Presence of the Spirit, while all are precious, a few stand out as monumental. One was a vision, one a dream, but the two times God sang His love to me reduced me to tears. The second song was the one above. It was a Sunday gathering. The Lord caught my attention and said, "Listen". This song was sung. Imagine all the words we sing to God reversed and He singing it to you.

Dave, you have searched Me (seeking, knocking, calling out, believing, trusting), you know My ways (what have I kept from you), even when I fail you (allow you to be tried to your limit, when you receive undeserved crushing blows), I know you love Me (your previous trials reveal the strength of your faith), your Holy presence (you kept yourself clean and undefiled, you are Holy as I am Holy), Surrounding Me (waiting on Me, loving to be in My presence), In every season (nothing is more important, you have put me first), I know you love Me (no matter what happens you look to Me), I know you love Me (in the midst of sorrow), At the cross I bowed My knee (I the God of creation died because I love you, I submitted Myself to man and the will of the devil, hung on a cursed tree, and was not ashamed) , Where your blood was shed for Me (you die to your flesh, deny yourself and follow Me), There's no greater love than this (it's the whole duty of man, you lay down your life and do My will), You have overcome the grave (all the promises of My Word are yours, I will grant you eternal life), your glory fills the highest place ( I will proclaim your name before My Father and the Holy Host of heaven), What can separate Me now (who can take you out of My hand, I will always be with you and never forsake you), you go before Me (you proclaim My word, My truth, in the spirit of Elijah), you shield My way (you break down walls put up by man, you repair the breach in truth damaged by religion), your hand upholds Me ( you take no credit for yourself for I am the Author and finisher of your faith), I know You love me (at every turn you exalt Me, you give no credit to the flesh), At the cross I bow my knee, Where Your blood was shed for me, There's no greater love than this, You have overcome the grave, Your glory fills the highest place, What can separate me now? you tore the veil (you resisted the teachings of man that bind and hinder, the traditions, you trusted Me to teach you), You made a way (you believe My Word and I account that to you as righteousness), When You said that it is done (your hand is to the plow and will not look back, you have counted the cost and all else is loss), And when the earth fades (when mortality puts on immortality), Falls from My eyes (when I rest and My own are Kings and Priests), And you stand before Me (you desire to be a pillar in My temple and never leave My presence), I know you love Me (it is all the reward you desire), I know You love me (you are My friend I love you), At the cross I bow my knee, Where your blood was shed for me, There's no greater love than this, You have overcome the grave, Your glory fills the highest place, What can separate me now ( We are one)?

You think me prideful, full of myself? I just love God and all that He has done. I hate evil, pride and arrogance. I hate what wicked, self serving men have done to the weak and lame. To tell you the truth I no longer judge myself, nor do I care what people think of me. I want people to be just like me before God, take Him at His Word, be free. Throw away all the books, learn of Him, He is meek and lowly. Through Jesus our Lord, God has provided a way to know all truth, the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a portion of Gods Spirit that can live in you. Constantly checking you, correcting, giving understanding. I am flesh, the only good in me is God. I believe His entire, whole, complete word. I see the Hand of God in all my life, He is Faithful. If I live or die, He is all I desire. If you hadn't noticed, almost everything the Lord sang to me is in His word, look it up. It is what He desires us all to be.

In my weakness, He is made strong. When God fails you, your pride, He is actually offering you a step up to His level, a partaker of the sufferings of Christ. When you accept, He loves you all the more.

John 6:68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

L,J,P&HG
Dave

We Must Judge Ourselves

It seems that as of late, no matter what I read or hear, the issue of pride remains on my mind and in my spirit. The words 'be careful where you stand unless you fall' rings in my ear on almost a daily basis. The fact that we have heard the truth from the mouth of God and that He will not withhold any good thing from those who are His, are the very reasons why godliness with contentment is great gain. Looking to the One who bought us and gave His life for us is the only way that we can stand. And if we do not love this Truth (Jesus) more than the approval of men, it is only a matter of time before we do, indeed, fall. Our Lord Jesus is the only one that can keep us from falling and present us faultless, without spot and wrinkle, to the Father. He is ever making intercession to the Father for us because He loves us and we are His. All we must do is love and cherish the relationship that we have with Him so much that we would desire to be known as nothing more than one who loves God: ²And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.³But if any man love God, the same is known of him (1 Corinthians 8:2-3).

Knowing that the Lord has called us to judge all things by His Spirit, it is true that we must first consume our own words and judge ourselves, that we cannot be judged by another: ³¹For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged (1 Corinthians 11:31). But our judgment must always be according to God's word by the Spirit of God that we would judge all things according to truth and not deceive ourselves (or judge ourselves with an unfair scale).

My prayer is that you, me, we would go before the Lord daily in humility and seek His face that we might find favor in the eyes of God. That our daily sacrifice of praise and our very lives would be acceptable unto the Lord and that He would continue to find pleasure in us daily. God forbid, if the day was to come where he no longer found pleasure in us (due to our own pride, unbelief, sin, fear, lack of faith or unwillingness to do what God has instructed), it would be a very sad, dark day indeed.

The time is short and the day of His salvation is nearer than when we first believed. We must put off the childish things that the Lord has called us out of and quit ourselves as men (and women) in Him. We must cease from our own labors and enter into the work that the Lord has set before us to do while the light of day still shines, while there is yet time, for when the Master shuts the door only those who have been faithful to Him will stand. I pray all who have heard God speak to them, all who have taken the time to receive the Spirit of Truth that they may have fellowship with the Father, all who have been called and chosen for such a time as this (a time as never before) will be able to enter in to the pavilion of God in the day of judgment. We must pray that we are found worthy to escape the wrath that is to come.

Luke 13:24-28
²⁴Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. ²⁵When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: ²⁶Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. ²⁷But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. ²⁸There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.

God have mercy on your people and give us wisdom and understanding that we may find the strength to stand in the days to come. Let us hold fast to the liberty that you have given us, for even as it is written, those whom the Son has made free are free indeed.

Have Your way in us both now and in the times to come.

God be glorified,
Ryan

Where we stand

The other day as I was praying, the Lord spoke to me a word and a scripture. I'll just start off with what he gave me. First the word and then a scripture to confirm it....

Who will not fear me? Who shall stand in the day appointed? The day of my judgment is at hand, but who has layed it to his heart? My wise men have perished, my young ones have wandered far from me. They love the dainties of this world, I am of no value to them. Hear this all you who forsake the Lord, I will rend you in the day of my fury, for though you once stood in my council to delight in my ways, you have erred and have not returned. But yet I said I will have mercy and will not utterly consume them, for who knows the seasons and who has declared unto me the time? The wicked surly shall perish, and all their wisdom shall be foolishness, and all their knowledge as the dust. For they lay up treasures for the last day, but they know not me. Be obedient and watch. Those who stand shall be as I am and no man shall harm them. Have faith.


HOSEA 4:1-14
1
Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land.
2
By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out, and blood toucheth blood.
3
Therefore shall the land mourn, and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish, with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven; yea, the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away.
4
¶ Yet let no man strive, nor reprove another: for thy people are as they that strive with the priest.
5
Therefore shalt thou fall in the day, and the prophet also shall fall with thee in the night, and I will destroy thy mother.
6
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.
7
¶ As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame.
8
They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity.
9
And there shall be, like people, like priest: and I will punish them for their ways, and reward them their doings.
10
For they shall eat, and not have enough: they shall commit whoredom, and shall not increase: because they have left off to take heed to the LORD.
11
¶ Whoredom and wine and new wine take away the heart.
12
My people ask counsel at their stocks, and their staff declareth unto them: for the spirit of whoredoms hath caused them to err, and they have gone a whoring from under their God.
13
They sacrifice upon the tops of the mountains, and burn incense upon the hills, under oaks and poplars and elms, because the shadow thereof is good.¶ Therefore your daughters shall commit whoredom, and your spouses shall commit adultery.
14
I will not punish your daughters when they commit whoredom, nor your spouses when they commit adultery: for themselves are separated with whores, and they sacrifice with harlots: therefore the people that doth not understand shall fall.



It is a shame when someone has tasted of God, walked with him, talked with him, even called him friend and yet has turned their back on truth. They have left their first love, they no longer value the pearl of great price, they have returned to their own vomit. We have seen them, in one way or another, some being a brother in Christ or a sister, others never seem to come fully and surrendered themselves to the world. In this time and season, God is calling for our full separation, there is no more room for anything else. Either you love God or you don't, there can be no middle line. The wind is blowing separating the chaff from the wheat. All that can be blown away is fit to be burned. I know it doesn't feel pretty, the refinement, the chastening, but in all things we must be humble before God. It far too easy to become lifted up in pride, think yourself something, and fall out of the will and peace of God. We must be certain where we stand with God, certain of our standing. For when the time comes and you realize I was wrong it probably will be too late. God will never put a burden on us too great, and he is always there to help us bear the load. Endure the refinement, set it your heart never to turn back, burn the bridges behind you, and press forward to the prize.

Your brother in Christ,
Austin

The Air Above The Danger Zone

Life in the Holy Spirit; liberty, justification, equiping, freedom, wisdom, knowledge, truth, acceptance, buckler and shield, high tower, ears to hear, power, confidence, love, joy, peace & the Holy Ghost, whats not to Love?

Galatians 5
1Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
4Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.
5For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
6For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
10I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.
13For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
14For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
16This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
17For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
24And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
25If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
26Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Ephesians 6
10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

1 Corinthians 13
4Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
8Charity never faileth:
10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
11When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
13And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

2 Corinthians 6
2(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
3Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
6By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
9As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
10As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.
14Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
18And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

Romans 8
1There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
3For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:
4That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
5For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
6For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
7Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
8So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
9But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
10And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.
11But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
26Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
27And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
31What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
32He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
33Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.
34Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
37Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 John 3:21Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.
1 John 5:14And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

1 Peter 1
2Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
5Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
7That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
8Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
9Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

L,J,P&HG
Dave

Flying into the Danger Zone

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Proverbs 9:9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

James 3:1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. (Make no mistake, those who desire to be looked on as one called of God, you handle Holy Vessels of the Lord, His sons and daughters. I f you are unworthy or have unclean hands or unclean hearts, and you cause any harm it would be better for you if you were never born. Matthew 18:6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.) 2For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word (John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.), the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. 3Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. 4Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. 5Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. 7For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: 8But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men( Bring into bondage; Galatians 3:3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.), which are made after the similitude of God. 10Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. 11Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? 12Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh. (Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 10And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: ) 13Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. ( Revelation 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.)15This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.


1 Corinthians 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

Proverbs 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Psalm 50:14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:

Psalm 95:8 Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

1 Corinthians 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

Galatians 6:3For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
4But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
5For every man shall bear his own burden.
7Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
8For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
9And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

L,J,P&HG
Dave

Vision- The Path of Life

Yesterday in church, I could not enter in to the spirit of God because I had offended a good friend of mine who is also a sister in the Lord. Although I new that there was nothing between God and myself, I realized how important it is to be blameless not only before God, but also before men. I repented and plan to apologize to that person later after church. Then, Right before church was about to end the Lord showed me a vision.
I was standing before a great mountain with snow on the peaks of it. I then looked behind me and saw a forest with a narrow path/trail that was exiting it. The Lord then took me to the beginning of the path. It started off like most hiking trails would. It was made out of cement and led to a wide dirt path that had trees on both sides. As I was walking the path, I came across a fallen log that blocked the path. I had two choices, I could stay on the path and have confidence that I had the ability to climb over the log, or I could step off the path and try to go around it. After stepping over the log and continuing the hike, I noticed the path became more narrow, and the forest on the sides became more dense. I then came across a river. The path stopped at the river, and then I could see where it started back up on the other side. I had two choices. I could walk straight across the river to the other side, or I could go look for some bridge or other way to cross it. After crossing the river the path became very narrow and the forest became extremely dense. I finally saw the end of the path and exited the forest. I could see the mountain now, and realized to get to the mountain, there were hills and other obstacles in the way. I was left with two choices, I could have faith and confidence and began heading towards the mountain, or turn back.
Understanding, the path is obviously the Christian walk that God has made. We first have to choose that we want to began the path, even know we can't see the end. When the log comes up we realize that walking the path of life is not always easy and obstacles will come. Then we will be left with decisions to make. Next, is the river and it is of God. Its the baptism of the Holy spirit. Sadly, many people stop at that point. They feel good because they chose to walk the path, but they don't want to continue because they are content with what they have. They are Comfortable. They might dip their toe in the water, but they won't dive in. Why would God put it there if it wasn't for us? Embrace it, and once you have it, cherish it. It shall teach you all things, and you will have no need of any man to teach you because it will lead you into all truth. On the path following, God begins to teach us how to be Adults in Christ, and we began eating the meat of the word. ( as the scripture says) We began to receive directly from God and realize that he doesn't live somewhere on Mars, but he lives in us, and walks with us daily. Then when we exit the forest, we see the huge mountain that has been waiting. We know now that God has been with us all of long, and that he has never left us or forsaken us. Hopefully we all decide to keep going. To the top of the mountain is where God is calling all of us to be. I hope this is only encouragement to everyone, and that it might keep us mindful of where God has brought us, and where it is he wants us to go.

God bless, Chad

Called Unto Strength

During worship at church yesterday, Rhonda began to play a song with these lyrics "Oh draw me, Lord. Oh draw me, Lord. Oh draw me, Lord and I'll run after you." As the church began to sing this song to the Lord, He spoke this:

Word:
I have drawn you, and I have called and chosen you for such a time as this. That out of your bellies would flow the rivers of living waters. Who among you can say that I the Lord have not spoken to you or do not reveal Myself unto you daily? I am with you and there are none here that have not heard.

But I tell you this, none that love the cares of this life more than Me will stand in the days to come. For it is of a truth that I say to you that the world is enmity against God and I will not accept those that love the world or the things thereof. Put on Christ, all that have ears to hear. Seek those things which are above for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

As you know, I have not called you unto weakness, but rather unto strength, for My Spirit dwells in you. Walk as I walked, in righteousness, according to truth, that the blind may see and that the captives may be set free. Where My Spirit is, there is liberty. Therefore, as My Spirit leads, loose those that are in bondage that they may rejoice in Me even as you do rejoice this day.

Also as a confirmation, and for more understanding, the Lord gave me Matthew 18. Although the whole chapter was very stirring in many ways, I will highlight below what the Lord ministered to me in this.

Matthew 18:1-4
¹At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?²And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, ³And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. ⁴Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 18:7-9
⁷Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! ⁸Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. ⁹And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

Matthew 18:18-20
¹⁸Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. ¹⁹Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. ²⁰For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew 18:21-35
²¹Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? ²²Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. ²³Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. ²⁴And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. ²⁵But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. ²⁶The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. ²⁷Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. ²⁸But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. ²⁹And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. ³⁰And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. ³¹So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. ³²Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: ³³Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? ³⁴And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. ³⁵So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

In regards to this last passage, the passage of a certain king being patient toward his debtor, the Lord was confirming some specific things to me. Although the first debtor was given time by the king to repay his debts, he did not show the same mercy and patience toward his fellowservant. Although it is true that God is merciful, patient and longsuffering toward us, He would not have us judge others more harshly than ourselves. We must first get the beam out of our own eye, before trying to help a brother remove the spec out of his own. We must judge ourselves first and eat all that God gives us, before trying to pass it on to someone else. If we do not eat our own words (the word of God from our mouths) and judge ourselves accordingly, as Paul said, we ourselves could become castaways.

God be with us all, and may we put on humility that we may go before Him daily with thanksgiving in our hearts and His praises on our lips.

In Him,
Ryan

For those who have ears to hear.

I was at church yesterday, and I found myself overwhelmed by the spirit of God. The Lord told me to go to the back of the church where I knelt down, and began to pray. I heard in my spirit, Jerimiah chapter 17. Its long but I have to post it. Then the Lord gave me a word following the scripture.

Jeremiah 17
1The sin of Judah is written with a pen of iron, and with the point of a diamond: it is graven upon the table of their heart, and upon the horns of your altars;
2Whilst their children remember their altars and their groves by the green trees upon the high hills.
3O my mountain in the field, I will give thy substance and all thy treasures to the spoil, and thy high places for sin, throughout all thy borders.
4And thou, even thyself, shalt discontinue from thine heritage that I gave thee; and I will cause thee to serve thine enemies in the land which thou knowest not: for ye have kindled a fire in mine anger, which shall burn for ever.
5Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.
6For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.
7Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
8For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.
9The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
10I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.
11As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.
12A glorious high throne from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary.
13O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters.
14Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.
15Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of the LORD? let it come now.
16As for me, I have not hastened from being a pastor to follow thee: neither have I desired the woeful day; thou knowest: that which came out of my lips was right before thee.
17Be not a terror unto me: thou art my hope in the day of evil.
18Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let not me be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed: bring upon them the day of evil, and destroy them with double destruction.
19Thus said the LORD unto me; Go and stand in the gate of the children of the people, whereby the kings of Judah come in, and by the which they go out, and in all the gates of Jerusalem;
20And say unto them, Hear ye the word of the LORD, ye kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that enter in by these gates:
21Thus saith the LORD; Take heed to yourselves, and bear no burden on the sabbath day, nor bring it in by the gates of Jerusalem;
22Neither carry forth a burden out of your houses on the sabbath day, neither do ye any work, but hallow ye the sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers.
23But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction.
24And it shall come to pass, if ye diligently hearken unto me, saith the LORD, to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the sabbath day, but hallow the sabbath day, to do no work therein;
25Then shall there enter into the gates of this city kings and princes sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, they, and their princes, the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem: and this city shall remain for ever.
26And they shall come from the cities of Judah, and from the places about Jerusalem, and from the land of Benjamin, and from the plain, and from the mountains, and from the south, bringing burnt offerings, and sacrifices, and meat offerings, and incense, and bringing sacrifices of praise, unto the house of the LORD.
27But if ye will not hearken unto me to hallow the sabbath day, and not to bear a burden, even entering in at the gates of Jerusalem on the sabbath day; then will I kindle a fire in the gates thereof, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem, and it shall not be quenched.

Then God said to me,
I said unto this people, "If you will lay down your sin and not look back, I will forget your sin. Yea, If you will soften your hearts so I can teach you truth and how to love truth I will accept you, and call you my own." But they did not listen, they loved to love themselves. They loved to love other gods. My anger has been built up. A fire burns within me, and can not be quenched. Judgment day is set my people. I tried and I tried yet again but this people will not submit to me. They love the lies, and they hate me.
As for you my people, you have, so you will be given more. Do not give up what I have given you, but protect it. Cherish it, for there are few that I can call my own. Don't turn back to what I have pulled you out of. For I shall then see you as the rest of the people. Stay close to me, for I am your comfort, your shield. Be holy as I am holy and remember that I come quickly.

God bless, Chad