A couple of days ago I sat and watched an Alex Jones Documentary, "End Game". It was very well done, informative, historically correct, but for someone with no faith in God, could very well be depressing and leave a sense of hopelessness. Paul describes people who live in this condition: Eph 2:12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: If a dark situation or evil onslaught takes place, leaving no ray of light or hope for any change, or any form of redemption either in this life or the next; there can be no more miserable condition than this. Watching the oppression of many poor innocent people trapped in countries at war with each other, and those who promote them, gives a sense of what they must be going through, and are experiencing. The book of James speaks of what causes these calamities, but also the solution: Jas 4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Jas 4:2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Jas 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. Jas 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Jas 4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? Jas 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. One aspect of the video I didn't completely agree with was the outcome. Evil people have their agenda's for takeover of societies, lands, and cultures; it's been this way from the beginning of time. It started in the garden of Eden when Adam and Eve fell, and has been escalating ever since. The bible makes it clear that men's hearts would wax worse and worse until the end. When Jesus walked the earth he had to live in a land oppressed by Roman rule; and had this to say about it: Mat 22:21 They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's. The Adam Clarke commentary gives the simplest and clearest explanation of what Jesus meant: Render to Cæsar. The use of Cæsar's coin as the current money was an acknowledgment of Cæsar. Let them return his coin when demanded. Unto God the things that are God's. Obedience in moral and spiritual things. Faith, love, obedience and liberal giving for God's work. We are to obey the human government over us, and to obey God. When the first requires us to disobey God, we are to obey him, whatever may be the peril. Act_5:29. Adding another viewpoint to this matter-Jesus taught us who believe in him that we are not to be living and giving our full devotion to this world. His words of wisdom teach us how we should be looking at the world's evil condition, and the end game of God: Joh 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Jesus told Pilate that if he had wanted he could have called legions of angels to assist him in getting free. Mat 26:52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Mat 26:53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? But, he knew his mission, he knew why he had come. He knew why he was standing before Pilate to be handed over to be crucified. He knew he would rise again victorious. He was completely in the will of the Father in what he was facing, and he knew it. John 18:11 F.B. Meyer gives a powerful account of Jesus' answer to Pilate: THE KING OF TRUTH There was a tone of satire in Pilate’s question: “Thou poor, worn, tear-stained outcast, forsaken by every friend in this hour of need-art thou a king?” Human ears have never heard more majestic words than our Lord’s reply. But when He said, My kingdom is not of this world, He did not mean that it had nothing to do with this world, but that it did not originate here. It has descended from heaven, and seeks to bring the inspiration, principles, and methods of heaven into all the provinces of human activity. The one conspicuous proof of its absolutely foreign origin is its refusal to employ force. We do not fight, but sacrifice and suffer, for its maintenance. Our Lord therefore hastened to show that His Kingdom is based on the manifestation of the truth. There is no soul of man which is pure and true that does not recognize Christ’s royalty, as King of Truth, when it hears Him speak. (F.B. Meyer comm) I'm getting off on a tangent here, but to make a point. It is this: Whatever the end game of the elites, atheists, Satanists, and their formation of a One World Government-God has another End Game- and if you go to the book of Revelation, and read it to the end, you will see who wins this battle, and it's not the devil. If you've given your life to Jesus Christ, and put your trust in Him, no matter what their strategies are; in the end we win. We may go through some hard times, have to make sacrifices, may lose our lives here. But, Jesus won, and I'm following Him, no matter what the cost. This world and all it's gold and riches aren't worth losing my eternal soul. Right now, the devil is having a field day running God's saints ragged, it tells us in scripture this would happen: Dan 7:25 And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. This where we are at now, and many of God's greatest warriors are battle weary, and making mistakes because of the stress, strain, and not seeing any end to the fight. I've made my share also. We may die in the battle-it's ok. The minute we close our eyes here-we see Jesus face to face. It will be ok, it will be worth it. Just keep going, and doing what we know to do, keep praying, keep lifting up His Name, and righteousness. Yes, love this nation, do what can be done to defend it, but don't put all your allegiance to it. It's Jesus and the kingdom of God we're heading toward, not the god's or governments of this world. This verse comes to me often and I know it's the Holy Spirit giving it to feed me encouragement: Heb 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Heb 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. In this world of upheaval and turmoil Jesus gave the comfort and encouragement needed to face whatever may come our way, and be able to overcome: Joh 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Jesus overcame this world. As we keep our eyes on Him, and keep doing what is asked of us, remain faithful, and stand firm in faith: we can overcome also. God's end game is this: Rev 19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. Rev 19:12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. Rev 19:13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. Rev 19:14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. Rev 19:15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. Rev 19:16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. So, whether He comes while we are still here, or whether we die, the question for you is: are you ready? Lorna Couillard When we are born again, and saved by the power of the blood of Christ, every Christian enters a battle ground, and until we reach heaven, it is warfare against the powers of darkness. Before we got saved we belonged to Satan but were ignorant of it, our eyes are blinded. As we grow, and study the scriptures we can get out of balance, coming against demons, rebuking them in everything, and come away discouraged, and even lose faith because we don't see a change in the situation. However, Paul and the Apostles taught spiritual warfare, and if we ignore their clear teachings, we leave ourselves vulnerable to every deception, and remain an ignorant sheep. I have chosen to listen to Jesus' warning to "be as wise as serpents and harmless as doves". Matt. 10:16 There are times when demons need to be addressed. It is the transforming power of the scriptures applied to our everyday life, and our personal walk with the Lord that gains the victory over Satan in our lives. For those who would be repelled at this, Jesus did it, he told the disciples to do it, and gave them power over the demons to cast them out, and he commissioned them and us again when he rose from the dead to do it. We are left to either believe him and expect to be engaged in spiritual warfare, or decide to only obey the parts of the bible we like, and remain ignorant of the devils devices. The Christians Warfare is in these realms: The world: James 4:1-4- "(read text) Our hearts are exposed by the things we chase after, and think are so important. The desire to consume, to be important, to be rich, is the fuel the devil uses to drive us to envy, jealousy, and an evil heart. If we refuse to repent, and allow God to help us change, it leads to greater sin such as murder, and war. 1John 2:15-17 clearly tells us "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abides forever." Flesh: 1Peter 4:1-4, Col. 3:5-11"-(Read text) Those of us who have been saved from addictions, such as drugs and alcohol see the truth of these scriptures. It is in these addictions, that all other evil is fed and grows to the point that we do not have control of ourselves. It takes the transforming power of the Lord to get us back on the right track. If we are serious about wanting to change, he will reach out to us, and has the power to set us free. I can testify to that. The Devil: 1Peter 5:8 "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who has called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you." Principalities and Powers of darkness: Eph. 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." The demonic forces that come against us in this life are very serious, and have one main objective; to destroy you, and ultimately have you join them in hell when your life here is over. They will do whatever it takes to try to steer you away from Christ, and back into darkness. Demonic Cults: The Greatest Danger to the Christian and The Church Whether we like it or not, cults are one of the most destructive forces within the church, and among Christians. Sadly, most do not realize the danger of being involved in them, because of the clever deceptions and cover ups that look to the public like very good organizations. Before I came to Christ; I was deeply involved in the occult, witchcraft, and had studied many areas of satanic involvement. Some of the cults that are the most infiltrated within the Churches are: Wicca Freemasonry Mormonism Eastern Star Illuminati Christology There are more, but this is a sample of what bible believing people and churches are dealing with. It takes discernment to see the difference between sins of the flesh, and when someone is also bound by demonic activity, both originate from the devil. However, there is a difference between someone who is being sorely tempted, and one who has allowed demons to oppress them consistently and allowed them to attach themselves to the persons soul. This is an area where a lot of Christians get out of balance. But, if you sincerely go to the Lord in prayer, and study His Word, the Holy Spirit will give clear direction. The Conduct of the Soldier of Christ We are given clear guidance on how to wage this war; our victory hinges on our obedience to the Word of God. Walking out our faith in obedience to the scriptures is the greatest weapon against anything we face. Our warfare is directly the opposite of the devil's, we are now promoting peace, light, and righteousness in a dark world, where once we were partaker's of that darkness. It is absolutely necessary to line up our conduct with what we are saying with our mouths. Confessing the word of God is useless if we aren't walking the talk. Prov. 20:11 tells us "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right". These instructions are: Avoid worldly entanglements, and endure suffering, avoid arguments: 2Tim. 2:3-14 In this text we are given clear instruction on what to avoid to live at peace with other's as much as possible. No one likes to be misunderstood, but there are times when it is best to just stay silent rather than try to force someone to agree with us, or prove we are right. There are some people we should avoid, the ones who we ran with when we lived in sin, sometimes even our relatives. Be sober, watchful, 1Cor. 16:13 "Watch ye, and stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong."1Thess. 5:5-8 "Ye are all the children of the light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, or of the darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation." Put on our armor, and pray: Eph. ch.6:10-18(read text) This is a study in itself, but we only have time to touch on it now. I highly recommend you take the time to study this chapter, and do some cross referencing. If you do, the Lord will open to you the power of these scriptures, and strengthen your spirit. How Do We Gain the Victory God doesn't expect us to do this warfare alone, and in our own power. We are given an arsenal to equip us and win the battles in life. We need to know what our weapons are, and how to use them: 11Cor. 10:3-5 tells us, "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; God's Word-Heb. 4:12 "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." If we allow it, the word of God will expose what is in our hearts to us, and will work with us to purify, and bring us out of darkness. It is the power of the shed blood of Jesus Christ, and the applied word of God in the appropriate time and place that stops the devil in his tracks, and sends him packing; it has nothing to do with our own righteousness, it is Jesus Christ, and His authority that the demons must obey. It is our being covered with Christ's righteousness that puts us in a place of effective service. Faith-1John 5:4-5 "For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? " Heb. 11:6"But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." Christ's promise-John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." This passage tells us much more than it seems at first glance. Let's break this down; Jesus was fully man, he experienced and suffered all the tribulation and temptations we do, and overcame them. He did this by the help and power of the Holy Spirit. He showed by example that we can be victorious if we keep our eyes on Him. When he was driven into the wilderness by the Spirit, and tempted by Satan, here we are shown how to win our battles also. Jesus answer to the devil was "It is written." The word of God, rightly used will put the devil to silence. As James 4:7 tells us "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Every time we win a battle of temptation, our spirits become stronger, and more able to stand against the next one that comes at us. Spiritual Authority-Authority is delegated power; In Luke 10:19 Jesus tells us "Behold, I give unto you Power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." The value of the authority rests on the power behind our authority. The devil and his forces are obliged to recognize our authority. The believer who thoroughly understands that the power of God is backing him can exercise his authority and face the enemy fearlessly. Example: A policeman who directs traffic during the rush hour just raises his hand and the car stops. The man doesn't have the physical power to stop the vehicle if the driver chooses not to stop. But, they don't use their own strength to stop traffic; they use the authority invested in them by the government they serve. The devil's recognize the power and authority behind the name of Jesus Christ, it is His authority that they submit to, that has been delegated to us as believer's. In Matt. 28:18 Jesus said to the disciples "All power is given unto me in heaven and earth. This is the same as authority. When Christ ascended, he transferred His authority to his people. Christ's authority has to be perpetuated through His Body, which is on earth. Christ is seated on the right hand of the Father, the place of authority, and we are seated with him. To sit on the right hand of a king or pope means authority. When we received Christ as Savior, we died with Him, and are raised with Him. The source of our authority is found in the resurrection- and exalting of the Lord Jesus Christ Eph. 1:18-23 "The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church." Eph. 2:5 "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ(by grace you are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." We need to realize that the authority that belongs to Christ belongs to individual members of the Body of Christ and is available to us. The elevation of Christ's people with Him into the heavenlies clearly points to the fact we are to sit with him. sharing not only his throne, but also his authority. Romans 5:17 tells us "For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ." We are not just to reign with Christ in heaven, we are to reign in life by Jesus Christ now. Throughout history, whatever the king said was law; he was the last authority. In the same way, we partake of the authority that Christ's throne represents. Why do we not see this authority used as it should be in the Church? Lack of knowledge: Hosea 4:6 says "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." This verse says "my people", not unbeliever's. The authority vested to us is almost never taught today in the churches. But, if any person is hungry to learn the truth, Jesus is ready and willing to teach you, in John 8:32 he tells us"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free." Authority is abused: The misuse of this authority results in defeat. God is not obliged to honor us if we try to use this authority to promote ourselves. Authority over the devil is successful when we know how to use it, the same as a well trained policeman, who knows who his boss is, and works with integrity. Lack of Faith: In order for this to work, you have to know who you believe, and what is yours without reservation. The devil knows if we really believe what we are doing or not. When circumstances don't change immediately, some people become discouraged and slip back into the natural; They talk unbelief and defeat themselves. They give the devil dominion over them. Smith Wigglesworth often said, "I'm not moved by what I see. I'm not moved by what I feel. I'm moved only by what I believe." We have to stand our ground. The authority is ours whether we feel like it or not. Authority has nothing to do with feelings, but we must exercise it in order for it to work. Pastor's and Leaders fear those who would get out of balance: Unfortunately, I've seen many Christians get very out of balance, and not able to discern when to use the authority over the devil, or when to take the matter to prayer, and faith. It takes careful observation to know when something is a problem of the flesh, or a spirit behind the problem. We need to learn the difference, and the many ways God has to deliver us or other's from bondage. God is patient with us as we learn. For example: The spirit of a rebellious person is only set free by honest repentance. All the rebuking and casting out in the world is not going to work, until the person is truly sorry for their sin, and makes up their mind they want to change, no matter what they have to do. God can and will help this person, and reach out to them in power to help them come out of darkness, into the light. I am a testimony of this. Nothing ever really changed for me until I became honest with myself and with God. The power of God to deliver me was there, but He would not force himself on me. I had to open my heart to Him, and take hold of him and his promises to set me free. When my heart changed, he revealed to me several demonic spirits that needed to be dealt with, and showed me how to cast them out. This did not take a long time, and I knew when they left. The compulsive desires I had were gone, and I knew the difference. I knew I as free. We are not to pray the devil out; but speak to him and tell him what to do: It is a waste of time to pray to the Lord to deliver us or someone else. Jesus has done all He is going to do about the devil. He has won the victory when he rose from the dead. The authority has been delegated to us, and we are to speak to him, and take dominion over his attacks on us. We have authority over the devil over our own lives and household, but not over someone else's. A believer can break the power of the devil anywhere in their own life, or their immediate family, they have authority there, but not in someone else's. Spiritual authority is like natural authority. For example: I don't have authority over someone else's money unless they give me permission to use it. I don't have authority over someone else's children. You can make the devil desist in some of his maneuvers in somebody else's life, but you can't always cast him out, because you don't have authority in that household. Only through intercession can you exercise spiritual authority in another person, or somebody else's family." "Important point"- When you get out beyond the written word of God, you've gone too far. Stay with what the Word says about the matter, don't add anything to it. Unwilling to change and grow: When a person first gets saved, they rely much on the pastor or Christians over them, and this is ok. But we who are older must teach people so they can grow and use their own authority. As we grow older in Christ, we should be stronger in faith, not weaker, but many times older Christians become callous and set in unbelief because they've gotten off in the ditch in their walk, and not prayed themselves out. Some never learn to use their authority because of bad teaching. Some just become unwilling to accept what the word teaches and stay in the babyhood stage of christian development. I pray that we may press on and allow the Holy Spirit to mold us, and grow us up in Christ, and become victorious in our walk in this life. Lorna Couillard 2007 teaching for Teen Challenge The Gift of Prophecy Walking In His Service Once we’ve gone thru the process of evaluating our calling, counting the cost, and made up our mind to obey God; there are things we can do to cooperate with the Holy Spirit to help us do the best job possible as we serve the Master. No matter what office or ministry we are called to; we can have something to do with determining the degree of our anointing. We can prepare ourselves for the anointing. If it doesn’t develop and increase, it’s because we haven’t prepared ourselves for it. The anointing can be increased, by studying the Word and being prayerful. It will decrease when we neglect to do so. 2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. A workman who doesn’t study is going to be ashamed, because people are going to find out about it. The anointing will either be lost, or will not be in manifestation. But, if you start out in faith, study, and pray, the anointing will come. The anointing increases also by reason of use; meaning, the more we operate under the anointing, the more we become accustomed to it, the more we learn how to function in it, and learn how to move with the Holy Spirit under the unction. We become skillful in our ministry, and discernment to hear the voice of the Spirit, know His leadings, and become more confident in our service. In Old Testament times, the Holy Spirit came upon three types of people_the prophet, the priest, and the king; to enable them to function in their respective offices. But the Holy Spirit was not in any of them during that dispensation as He is in ours today. We can increase the anointing, by association, influence, and environment: 1. seeking to learn from someone who has the same calling 2. closely watching someone in the same kind of ministry; and if possible sit under them in discipleship 3. being careful to take advantage of every opportunity to be in the environment where the anointing is present; and manifestations of the Spirit are in operation. We see the benefits of this in the story of Elijah, and Elisha. The principles will work the same way for the believer who earnestly seeks the anointing, and will learn from those who walk in it. Ki 19:19 So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him. 1Ki 19:20 And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee. And he said unto him, Go back again: for what have I done to thee? 1Ki 19:21 And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him. 2Ki 2:1 And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. 2Ki 2:2 And Elijah said unto Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Bethel. And Elisha said unto him, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Bethel. 2Ki 2:3 And the sons of the prophets that were at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he said, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace. 2Ki 2:4 And Elijah said unto him, Elisha, tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Jericho. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they came to Jericho. 2Ki 2:5 And the sons of the prophets that were at Jericho came to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he answered, Yea, I know it; hold ye your peace. 2Ki 2:6 And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on. 2Ki 2:7 And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went, and stood to view afar off: and they two stood by Jordan. 2Ki 2:8 And Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the waters, and they were divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on dry ground. 2Ki 2:9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. 2Ki 2:10 And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so. 2Ki 2:11 And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 2Ki 2:12 And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. 2Ki 2:13 He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; 2Ki 2:14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over. 2Ki 2:15 And when the sons of the prophets which were to view at Jericho saw him,they said, The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him. However; be careful to remember these precautions with associations in ministry: 1. Make sure the minister you follow is walking with God.- If they get out of balance, or off in their ministry; be careful not to follow them too closely. 2. Make sure they are walking in the same call on their life; don’t try to become an expert in every ministry; or try to develop a ministry on your own. If you know your called in the prophetic, or in teaching, spend your time learning as much as you can in that field. Time is precious; don’t waste it trying to be something your not. If a consistent desire for a certain ministry is in your heart; it’s usually because God put it there. People cannot anoint one another; anointing comes only from God. The anointing will increase, or lift according to His will, not our desires. 3. Above all; follow the Lord Jesus. He is the Head of the Church. The closer you stay with Him, the keener your discernment will be, and He will guide you as you seek which ministries to glean knowledge and benefit from. He will also warn us and steer us away from the ones who could do us harm. An important point to be aware of is: There are times when you will realize “you can follow the persons faith, but not their doctrine.” A person can be right in their heart, but wrong in their understanding of scripture. This is another reason to be very careful who you follow, or what ministry. Close study of the Word of God will keep us on the right track. God’s Perspective of the Anointing Very quickly, wrong conceptions of the purposes of the anointing, their functions, and God’s purposes for them can develop. We can become confused, discouraged, and even angry at God when we find it does not guarantee us a life free of adversity, and trials. The prophets in the Old Testament were anointed; most of them were killed. The disciples were anointed, they were persecuted, and killed. Jesus was anointed; he was hated and killed. There is a troubling development in ministries today that I’ve noticed; most of them have defined a successful ministry, and the degree of “anointing” they claim to have by how huge they can become (which many times proves to be manifestations of the flesh); and that these anointings equal prestige, and elevation of themselves. Ministry today sadly looks a great deal like the Hollywood entertainment industry; and performs much the same way. A servant can develop the wrong idea that it is there for us to develop and use it for our own benefits. We can become “power hungry”, in a prideful sense, and begin to abuse the gifts given to us by putting them on “exhibition” to be seen of others. God will allow us to be humiliated in public if we get off this way. We would do well to look at what Jesus had to say to us concerning the world, and our association with it: Joh 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. Joh 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Joh 15:20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. Joh 15:21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. Joh 15:22 If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. Joh 15:23 He that hateth me hateth my Father also. Joh 15:24 If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. Joh 15:25 But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. Joh 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: Joh 15:27 And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning. Yielding to The Holy Spirit However; no matter how much we study, pray, receive discipleship, and prepare, the anointing within will bear no fruit, and be of no service to God; unless we begin to step out and yield to the Holy Spirit. Fear, uncertainty, and anxiety is Satan’s greatest weapons to keep the servant of God frozen in his tracks. There’s no easy answer; sometimes we just have to make up our minds to obey even if we are afraid. This is a time when our faith and trust is being tested. Making a mistake is not going to bring God’s anger down on us; but he does become weary of someone who allows his fears to keep him disobedient. If we take just one step in obedience, even if we are afraid; we will find God’s strength right there to help us finish the job, and get it done. Whether it be preaching, teaching, or prophesying. No Imitations A great deal can be learned, and we can benefit by paying close attention to other’s in ministry. But we can only go so far with it. God doesn’t want us imitating each other, trying to be like someone else. Watch, observe and learn the way God uses people; but then let the Holy Spirit guide you and use you the way God made you. When David decided to kill Goliath; Saul tried to put his armor on him to go out and do battle with him; but David couldn’t wear it. He knew it would never work. He took it off, equipped himself with what he was accustomed to; and went in the power and anointing of God, and moved in his own unique way. The result was David was victorious, and Goliath was dead. This is a lesson for us as well. Sa 17:38 And Saul armed David with his armour, and he put an helmet of brass upon his head; also he armed him with a coat of mail. 1Sa 17:39 And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him. 1Sa 17:40 And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine. 1Sa 17:41 And the Philistine came on and drew near unto David; and the man that bare the shield went before him. 1Sa 17:42 And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. 1Sa 17:43 And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 1Sa 17:44 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 1Sa 17:45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 1Sa 17:46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 1Sa 17:47 And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands. 1Sa 17:48 And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 1Sa 17:49 And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. 1Sa 17:50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. So the important lesson here is; when you serve God, and wage war against the enemy, wear your armor, and make sure it's your own, not someone else's. Let God use you and anoint you in your own unique calling, not a clone of someone else. In Jesus’ ministry; he ministered to people in various ways. He didn’t just lay hands on people and pray. There are many accounts of unusual ways He ministered. Two examples: He spat on the ground, made clay from the spittle, rubbed it into the blind man’s eyes; and told him to go and wash in the pool of Siloam. (John 9:7) With a deaf man, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears, spat, and touched his tongue. And straightway his ears were opened. (Mark 7:35) When an anointing comes upon us; we may be asked to do unusual things, to the point that we may ask “Lord, is this really You?” If it is; He will confirm it, and if the anointing is there to do it; don’t be afraid; go with the anointing and get it done! If we decide to disobey; or begin to argue with God even after He’s confirmed what He wants us to do, He will only go so far with us, then the anointing will lift off of us; and we may not get another opportunity. He will not strive with us over stubborn disobedience. How the Anointing Works There are three things concerning anointing we need to learn: 1 . We receive anointing and power from God, Not from people. The anointing will increase, or lift according to His will, not our desires. 2. The anointing is a heavenly materiality, and a tangible substance. It is perceptible to the touch. This can be seen because Jesus knew the moment power flowed out of Him. He was aware of the outflow, as well as the woman with the issue of blood was aware of receiving the power. She didn’t touch His person, only His clothes. Mark 5:31 3. It is transferable or transmittable: It will flow from one person to another. The anointing can also be stored, and rest upon objects, such as the account of Paul with the handkerchiefs, and cloths in Acts 19:12. The anointing; or power of God, flows like electricity or water. John tells us Jesus had the Spirit without measure: Joh 3:34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. Yes, Jesus was human, but he was like Adam before he sinned. Before Adam sinned, his body was immortal. Before he sinned Adam was not subject to death. It is death that affects us humans. (Romans 5:12) Rom 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: This is the reason Jesus could not be killed until he was made sin for us. He said “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself.”(John 10:18) Joh 10:17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. Joh 10:18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father. However; we in these human bodies cannot contain that measure of power. We would not be able to stand it. It is like taking hold of an electric wire; our bodies couldn’t contain that much power. Faith and Anointing Now, it is important to realize that no matter how much we may be anointed; if we don’t mix that anointing with faith, the power to minister in any calling will be diminished. Faith comes by hearing; and hearing by the Word of God. Sitting under anointed preaching and teaching will strengthen faith; and the anointing will deepen. Faith and anointing together produces the power of the manifestations of prophecy, healing, and deliverance. Pro 4:20 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Pro 4:21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. Pro 4:22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. As great a prophet as Elijah was; James had this to say concerning him: Jas 5:17 Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. Elijah was a man of like passions - Naturally as weak and sinful as we are. And he prayed - When idolatry covered the land. God heard; and heeded his prayer. Let’s take this as encouragement, and walk in our service to God; and ask Him to increase our faith as we go. Lorna Couillard 1998 The Gift of Prophecy
Counting the Cost Any servant of God is going to face opposition, persecution, rejection. Someone given the gifts of prophecy; and called by the Lord to use them will also. At times, it’s necessary to remind ourselves of this fact, and go back to the teachings given to us, to re-establish ourselves in God, to re-gain strength, and straighten our feet on the right course when we are tempted to go astray. Luk 14:26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luk 14:27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. Luk 14:28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Luk 14:29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Luk 14:30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Luk 14:31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Luk 14:32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. Luk 14:33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. When God created us; he put in each of us specific character traits, personalities, and gifts. At the time of our salvation, those gifts are meant to be used to bring glory and honor to the Lord. Unfortunately; because of the nature of sin, we are prone to allow the devil to corrupt that plan of God. The gifts can be misused, great harm can be done to people, and reproach brought upon the name of the Lord Jesus. This is the case to a great degree today; and sadly Jesus warned us when he walked among us that many false prophets would increase in the last days. Anyone who has a true calling in the prophetic realm today, is fighting upstream against an onslaught of false prophets, false brethren who are out to make a name for themselves, gross error in doctrine being taught (and to a great degree the chruch is swallowing it), and false manifestations that again, is being accepted by the body of Christ, because of ignorance of what the bible says, and the flesh that wants it's own way. What the prophetic servant of God is facing today is not new; it's the same devil, there's nothing new under the sun. But, the trials, and attacks are much greater, and multiplied many times; because we are living in the last days Jesus warned us about. If you know God has called you into the service of the prophetic, you might as well make up your mind that your going to be to a great degree just as John the Baptist.(Joh. 1:23) He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. A voice crying in the wilderness; and precious few will listen, believe, or heed what God gives you to say. And, even if what you proclaim is identified as being from the Lord; you can expect hatred, resentment, rebellion, great attacks, and attempts to destroy your reputation and integrity. This will especially be true among your own family members; close friends, and those you may be well acquainted with in your church and community. You must expect it. Mat 13:57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. Mat 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief. Mar 6:3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. Mar 6:4 But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. Mar 6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. Joh 4:44 For Jesus himself testified, that a prophet hath no honour in his own country. Joh 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 1Jn 3:13 Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you. Persecution comes to all believer's; but in the prophetic realm, it seems to be multiplied. A steady stream of this kind of suffering, and persecution can affect our hearts, and spirits. Staying close to the Master in prayer and fellowship is necessary, because we will be prone to give in to these things developing in us: 1. unforgiveness 2. bitterness 3. anger 4. discouragement 5. becoming corrupted, and disobedient You will have to sit down alone with God, and be brutally honest with Him, and yourself. In our own flesh; we cannot do the job He has given us. It can only be done with the infilling of the Holy Spirit, and His power within us to walk in obedience to what God may ask us to do or say. The bottom line of it is; we must die; the Christ in us must be what moves us, gives us the power to do His will, and take the consequences. Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. False Prophets Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Mat 24:23 Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. Mat 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. Mat 24:25 Behold, I have told you before. 2Pe 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. In Old Testament times; prophets were dealt strictly by God for disobedience, and speaking false prophecies. Sometimes it cost them their lives. Jer 28:1 And it came to pass the same year, in the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, in the fourth year, and in the fifth month, that Hananiah the son of Azur the prophet, which was of Gibeon, spake unto me in the house of the LORD, in the presence of the priests and of all the people, saying, Jer 28:2 Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saying, I have broken the yoke of the king of Babylon. Jer 28:3 Within two full years will I bring again into this place all the vessels of the LORD'S house, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon took away from this place, and carried them to Babylon: Jer 28:4 And I will bring again to this place Jeconiah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah, with all the captives of Judah, that went into Babylon, saith the LORD: for I will break the yoke of the king of Babylon. Jer 28:5 Then the prophet Jeremiah said unto the prophet Hananiah in the presence of the priests, and in the presence of all the people that stood in the house of the LORD, Jer 28:6 Even the prophet Jeremiah said, Amen: the LORD do so: the LORD perform thy words which thou hast prophesied, to bring again the vessels of the LORD'S house, and all that is carried away captive, from Babylon into this place. Jer 28:7 Nevertheless hear thou now this word that I speak in thine ears, and in the ears of all the people; Jer 28:8 The prophets that have been before me and before thee of old prophesied both against many countries, and against great kingdoms, of war, and of evil, and of pestilence. Jer 28:9 The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the LORD hath truly sent him. Jer 28:10 Then Hananiah the prophet took the yoke from off the prophet Jeremiah's neck, and brake it. Jer 28:11 And Hananiah spake in the presence of all the people, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Even so will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon from the neck of all nations within the space of two full years. And the prophet Jeremiah went his way. Jer 28:12 Then the word of the LORD came unto Jeremiah the prophet, after that Hananiah the prophet had broken the yoke from off the neck of the prophet Jeremiah, saying, Jer 28:13 Go and tell Hananiah, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Thou hast broken the yokes of wood; but thou shalt make for them yokes of iron. Jer 28:14 For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and they shall serve him: and I have given him the beasts of the field also. Jer 28:15 Then said the prophet Jeremiah unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah; The LORD hath not sent thee; but thou makest this people to trust in a lie. Jer 28:16 Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the LORD. Jer 28:17 So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the seventh month. Also Samson Judges ch. 16 and King Saul 1Sam. ch. 15 Today; the warning Jesus gives concerning false prophets is chilling: Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Mat 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Mat 7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Mat 7:18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Mat 7:19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Mat 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Mat 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Mat 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. I can’t speak for anyone else, but the thought of an eternity in hell; apart from God forever, is enough to make me tremble, and do whatever it takes to heed his words. False Brethren One of the most discouraging costs of this calling is the manipulations, evil motives, and destructive attacks that come to us from those within the church; who desire to attach themselves to us, for their own benefit. Luk 21:16 And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. Exo 23:1 Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. Pro 6:19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. Mat 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: Rom 13:9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Jesus was relentlessly persecuted; and ultimately put to death by the actions of false brethren, and false witnesses: Mat 10:4 Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. Mat 17:22 And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: Mat 26:25 Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unt Mat 26:48 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast.o him, Thou hast said. Mar 14:21 The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born. Joh 18:2 And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples. Mat 26:59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; Mar 14:56 For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together. Mar 14:57 And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying, Mar 14:58 We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. Mar 14:59 But neither so did their witness agree together. Paul spoke of this problem in his ministry; 2Co 11:26 In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; Gal 2:4 And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage: Php 1:16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: Our response must be the same as the Lords: Rom 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vegeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 1Pe 2:23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: 2Ti 2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 2Ti 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. Heb 10:30 For we know him that hath said, Vegeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. Recognizing Satan’s Attacks The areas Satan will attack those gifted in the prophetic are: 1. Our minds- confusion comes from the evil one, we need to recognize it as such. 1Co 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 2. Our past failures-feelings of unworthiness, condemning accusations coming to us in our minds, and doubt which comes when the Holy Spirit gives a message must be rejected; and cast down by the power of the blood of Christ. Rom 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. 2Co 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 1. Weaknesses of our flesh-Satan knows us, and will attack the areas in us he knows are the weakest. Mat 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Co 12:7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 2Co 12:8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 2Co 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Note: How do we do this? By simply going to the Lord; handing our failures, weaknesses, and imperfections to Him, and leaning on His strength, and His resurrection power. It is not of ourselves, it is for Him, and thru Him. 2. Fear- Satan uses fear to intimidate, and cause us to remain silent when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, and gives a message to speak. God is very gentle, and patient with us. He knows our fears. As a loving Father; he will continue to nudge us, stir us up in our spirits, teach us His voice, and guide us. But, we must stand against fear, and sometimes make up our minds to obey; even when we are afraid. Mat 28:10 Then said Jesus unto them, be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me. Act 18:9 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: 3. Pride- This is the greatest weapon Satan uses. We must search and guard our hearts continually, or we will fall; Paul gives these admonitions for leaders and deacons in the church, but we who are called with prophetic gifts must heed them as well. 1Ti 3:1 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. 1Ti 3:2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 1Ti 3:3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 1Ti 3:4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 1Ti 3:5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 1Ti 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 1Ti 3:7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. 1Ti 3:8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not double tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 1Ti 3:9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 1Ti 3:10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 4. Lack of discernment- We will be prone to error, and being led astray if we don’t learn Godly discernment. There is only one way to do this, diligent study, and prayer. 1Jn 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Heb 5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 5. Compromise- There will be times when the Holy Ghost will give a very difficult message to speak. The temptation will come to alter it, to either omit part of it, or add to it. This is very dangerous, it is evil, God will not allow it to continue without severe consequences. Obedience to His voice is absolutely necessary; regardless of the outcome, or who is present at the time. Jer 14:14 Then the LORD said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart. Deu 18:19 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him. Deu 18:20 But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. 2Pe 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. As servants of the Lord; and soldiers of the Cross, we must be found trustworthy to the best of our ability: 2Pe 3:14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. Summary: As servants of God, let those of us who have been given prophetic gifts have this be our hearts cry, and prayer; Psa 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. Psa 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: Psa 139:24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Lorna Couillard 1998 |
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God's blessings You may find useful information here; Go to the resource page, you will find many videos and links The NightWatchman
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me,
saith the LORD. Isa 54:17 Rev 12:11
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. The Victory of Our Faith
For whatsoever
is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 1Jn 5:4-5 But 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. Isa 40:31 Our Warfare
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 2Cor 10:3-5 The Whole Armor
of God Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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. Wherefore 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. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Eph 6:10-18 The Prayer Room
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