-
How To Live A Christian Life (Part 1)
The only way to live a successful Christian life is to understand the makeup of man. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:33, the human consists of three parts: spirit, soul and body. When you are born again, it is the spirit of man that is changed from spiritual death unto spiritual life. Because of Adam’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden, we inherited his spiritual sin-nature. When you receive Christ, you simply exchange spiritual nature’s. You exchanged the spiritual nature of sin for the spiritual nature of God, which is righteousness.more
A good example of this is me. For years I was a drug addict, alcoholic, and convicted felon. I hated what I had become and the lifestyle I lived. On many occasions, I had good intentions of never taking drugs or alcohol again, but I never succeeded. Usually within a few hours, I was drunker and higher than I had ever been before. When I got born again on my third escape from prison, I received the spiritual nature of God which empowered me to live a successful Christian life. In March of 1982, I was able to say NO to drugs, alcohol and crime, never again to return to them since that day. The Holy Spirit came into my spirit to help me live for Christ. The Apostle Paul said in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I can agree with Paul and so can anyone else who has been born again.
One of the first things you must understand is that your spiritual nature was changed, but your mind has to be renewed to think in line with God’s Word and your body has to be brought into subjection to God’s Word. The first desire that the born again person has is to please God with all their being: spirit, soul, and body. The Bible is God’s instruction manual on how to accomplish this feat. The first thing you have to do to please God is to read, study, and meditate upon God’s Word. The Bible tells us what to do with our mind, mouth, eyes, hands, feet, body and life. There is NOTHING that is left to question. Even though you may be able to quote the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and know exactly what the Bible tells us to do, you will never do what you know unless you add one key ingredient with it. This key ingredient is called, prayer.
It is in prayer that you receive the strength of God, which enables you to live what you read in the Bible. In Isaiah chapter 40, it says that they who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles and they shall run and shall not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
The Father sent Jesus, his Son, on a mission to earth to discover what it was like to live in a human body, as well as die for the sins of the human race. I believe that when Jesus got back to Heaven, He said, “Father, if you don’t send them some help, they will never live righteous.” Father God then sent the Holy Spirit to indwell each person who would receive Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. He never expects you to live the Christian life alone. That has been the downfall of many well-meaning Christians.
You will never successfully live for God until you spend time in prayer and the study of God’s Word. The person who thinks they can live successfully, without spending time in prayer, is only deceiving themselves. In John chapter 14, Jesus said He was going away, but that He would send another comforter to be with us forever. This comforter is the Holy Spirit. A simple definition of the word, “comforter,” is ‘one called alongside to help.’ He has been sent to help us live a Christian life. The only way you can help someone else, is to ask for help yourself and then allow the Holy Spirit to help you help them. He will help you if you will allow Him.
I would also like to encourage you, you may not become perfect overnight, but, with continued Bible study, prayer, and diligence, you will become more Christ-like each day. The Lord is continually working in us who trust in Him to perform His will through our lives. If you make a mistake or fall into sin, do not quit or give up! 1 John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins. All you have to do is apply this verse to your life intending on never falling into that trap again. God wants you to be a success more than you do. He is doing all He can to assure your success. All He needs is a willing individual that will find out what His Word says for them to do, pray and receive strength from God to do it. I am going to list some scriptures which will help you on your journey to success. Read these aloud to yourself and confess that you are what they say you are.
Romans 3:24; 8:1,2; 12:5;
1 Corinthians 1:2, 30: 15:22:
2 Corinthians 1:21; 2:14; 3:14; 5:17,19;
Galatians 2:4; 3:26, 28; 5:6; 6:15;
Ephesians 1:3, 10; 2:6,10,13; 3:6,13,14;
Colossians 1:28;
1 Thessalonians 4:16; 5:18;
1 Timothy 1:14;
2 Timothy 1:9,13; 2:1,10; 3:15;
Philemon 1:6;
2 Peter 1:8;
2 John 1:9
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
Make a conscious effort to allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in at least 5 decisions every day. Obviously, you want to grow to the point where everything you do or say is inspired by the Holy Spirit, but for now, let’s concentrate on at least 5 simple decisions a day. Example: Who should I talk to today and what should I say? What should I read? What table should I sit at during meals? Etc. Do this for at least one week and watch the wisdom and direction of God in your life.
-
What In The World Is Going On? (New Message - Free Download)
This isn't really a new blog, just a heads up. Over at the RGM website (www.randallgrier.org)you can find a brand new message from Rev. Randall Grier. What In The World Is Going On?: A Message For The Church Today is available for download or to listen online free of charge. Check it out and tell everyone you know about it. You can go directly to the download page here.more
-
A Reformation Has Begun: The Church Spirit
more
REFORMATION -
THE CHURCH SPLIT
Kenneth E. Hagin taught me to preach for something and not against something. That is what I talked to the Lord about when He told me preach on this subject. I felt like I was being against something. The Lord Jesus Said to me, "You are to speak on this to identify what is going on in the church and clarify it so others may see, so they can make a choice on which way they want to go." The grace and peace of God came upon me, and the Lord Jesus assured me that He would be by my side, so I committed to do His will.
In September 2007, I was spending time fasting, praying and seeking the Lord. One morning, I was setting at my desk meditating on the Bible. The Spirit of God spoke to me and said, "There is a split, separation or division taking place in the church. Out of this church split two types of churches will emerge. One will be an Informational Church and the other will be a Revelational Church." The Lord Jesus told me that He was telling me this so I could watch out for it and prepare for it. I was impressed not to say anything publicly about it at that time. I still have the piece of paper where I wrote down what was told me that day.
On August 4, 2009 the Lord Jesus spoke to me about this church split again. I was ministering in a church service when the Spirit of God gave me more revelation on the Informational Churches and Revelational Churches. The Lord continued to deal with me about this into the early morning hours of August 5, 2009.
Jesus said, "This split or division has been going on for about three years (since 2006) but it will increase greatly in the next year and a half because of the popularity of informational type churches. Informational churches are not built on the Word of God or My leading, but on the plans of men and they will eventually implode because of sin and false doctrine. I will establish those who have built their church on My revelation and My Word and they will flourish and grow."
WHAT IN THE WORLD
IS WRONG?
Why do we find America and the world in the state it is in today? Our present society is in a state of spiritually demonic, and morally rotten decay. It is not because Americans and world love wicked behavior.
It is directly related to the fact, that the influence of humanism has been greater on our culture than the influence of the church.
In fact, I looked for the church and found it in the world. I looked for the world and to my surprise, I found it in the church. How can the church influence the world towards Jesus Christ when the church no longer has an identity of holiness and separation from the world.
HUMANISM IS NOT NEW - THE RENAISSANCE
The Renaissance period covers the years 1300 to 1600. The date is not exact. Renaissance is a term referring to humanistic studies and artistic accomplishments. The term Renaissance describes an attitude toward life which values earth more than heaven, the immortality of fame over immortality of the soul, the striving for success more than striving for what is right, and humanism over Christianity. Extreme Renaissance humanism led to denial of personal sin and the necessity of forgiveness. Today, it is RELIGION that desires social interaction without the Word or Spirit of God. SAME DEVIL - DIFFERENT DAY!
THE REFORMATION - MARTIN LUTHER
The Lord Jesus Christ always has a remnant that will not bow down to the religious system that is humanistic, satanic and of this world. Just like Martin Luther was raised up 492 years ago to bring about reformation in the church, the Lord is doing the same thing today.
Martin Luther's spiritual predecessors included men such as John Wycliffe and Johannes Hus, who had attempted to reform the church along similar lines. The Reformation began on October 31, 1517, in Wittenberg, Saxony (in present-day Germany) when German monk Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of Castle Church or All Saints Church, which served as a notice board for university-related announcements. Martin Luther made a translation of the Bible from Greek and Hebrew into German that allowed the common people to understand the Word of God. He was raised up by the Lord Jesus Christ to bring about reformation in the church. The Lord has started another reformation today!
THE SAME LORD JESUS - DIFFERENT DAY!
INFORMATIONAL
CHURCHES
These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. (Jude 19)
Informational Churches (Emergent Churches) have a keynote truth that they are established upon. They have moved away from the Bible and the Holy Ghost and have established their own form of unbiblical, unspiritual and humanistic worship. This "new church model" (Informational Church or Emergent Church) is not the one we should join ourselves with. The motto of this church is, "It is all about me", not the Lord Jesus.
I am not saying that the "old church model" didn't need a change, but this makeover that is sweeping through the church is of man, not God, and it is headed in the wrong direction. They use the same "church words" that we have always used, but they define them differently than we do. Born again means "a new way of thinking, or a change of attitude". They say we have to change our sermons to be "relevant, practical, and positive" (I always have). What they really mean is you can't preach the whole counsel of God's Word including preaching on repentance and hell, if you are to grow your church or ministry. Fasting and prayer has become a lost art and considered unnecessary in the Informational or Emergent church.
It seems that Satan always takes advantage of our desperation in the church. Yes, I desperately want to see a change and fresh fire, like you. Satan takes advantage of this and gets us to accept something he packaged, instead of what the Lord Jesus Christ designed.
CHARACTERISTICS OF
INFORMATIONAL
CHURCHES
These churches started off with the Lord
but got off
by yielding to and listening to
seducing spirits.
(1 Timothy 4:1-2)
The devil's job is to lead people off into error and that is going on today. These churches actually declare doctrines of devils and don't even realize it. The Bible is twisted and distorted to fit their point of view.
These churches are based on plans of man
and not
on the Lord Jesus Christ and the
Word of God.
(Matthew 16:23, Romans 16:17, Ephesian 4:14)
Jesus rebuked Peter because he wanted his human plans to come to pass instead of the plan of God. The Lord is displeased today with every church that will not follow the Bible, the leading of the Holy Ghost and Him.
The spirit of the world and the things
of
the world are in the church.
(1 John 4:15-17)
These churches have become entertainment centers. There is very little difference from attending this type church and a worldly theatrical production or show. Sometimes, you don't know if your in a nightclub or church. The sensuality and physical displays in the church bring out the flesh and soul instead of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told Kenneth Hagin it was substituting brass for gold in the church. (See his book, Plans, Purposes & Pursuits) These churches yield to the spirit of the world and that leads to demonic influence.
The Pastor and Church Leaders spend most of their
time playing
instead of praying and studying the Bible. (Acts 6:1-5a)
Jesus believed in resting because he told his disciples to go apart into a desert place and rest. He was speaking of resting temporarily, not forever. Vacations are fun and fine for a while but you can't live on an eternal vacation and fulfill the plan of God. I personally take the Lord, the Holy Ghost, my Bible and study books with me on vacation. You can't be effective or anointed without prayer and Bible study.
Messages are based on secular views and
opinions of natural men and women,
not
the Word of God and Holy Spirit. (1 Timothy 1:4)
You can't spend your time reading secular books, novels and magazines or cruising the internet and social sites and have a Holy Ghost, Biblical anointed message from God. Rev. Smiths Wigglesworth, wouldn't allow anyone to bring a newspaper into his house. We have a lot to learn. Extreme! Yes, but how many people did he raise from the dead. He would only read the Bible. He must have known something about how to obtain the Power of God. Yes, I read other spiritual books besides the Bible.
The Pastor, Church Leaders and members are more
concerned with looking and acting like a
Hollywood Star than a Preacher or Christian. (1 John 2:15)
There is an desire to reach more people and the thought is we have to change the entire church model to do this. This "new church model" has rebelled against, seemingly, everything in the old church model. The motto of this new church model is to be relevant and adapt different methods. Yes, we need to be relevant and change did need to occur. It must not be reckless abandon of good sound principles and practices though. The church has always had a tendency to get in the ditch on this side or that side of Biblical subjects.
Satan has taken advantage of this rebellion and pushed the church into the "Hollywood Star" mentality. The hollywood look, with "you look hot" (a sexual term), tight clothes, crevices and cracks are all on display in the new church model today.
Its John Travolta! No it is Brad Pitt! No it is Tom Cruise! No, "My Lord and My God", it is a preacher, maybe a Christian! Are you sure?!
Its Britney Spears! No it is Paris Hilton! No it is Angelina Jolie! No, "My Lord and My God", it is a woman preacher, maybe a Christian! Are you sure?! I'm not positive but I think I remember their face? Hopefully , we will find out soon.
Everyone that I have known that got really involved in this Hollywood mentality left their spouse, children, church or ministry and got involved with another man or woman. It is a temptation that looks innocent, relevant and necessary at first, but ends in disaster. The rat is not caught in the trap until it takes the cheese.
I will say that it is certainly hard, if not impossible, to discover who a pastor or Christian is from the way they dress, the way they talk and act. They dress, talk and act so much like the world you think you need to tell them about Jesus and get them saved. From the outward appearance, there is little or no difference from the appearance of the world. I certainly agree that what you wear does not make you a Christian or preacher; only the Lord Jesus can do that. What you wear does define who you are to others though.
It seems that about the only career or profession, with exception of a few, that you can't define who they are when on duty, by outward dress, is the new church model leaders. I can tell who the military, police officers, detectives, doctors, nurses, Walmart employees, mechanics, airline pilots and fight attendants, fire fighters, bank presidents, wall street stock market traders, athletes, civil servants, postal workers, business executives, news commentators, sports broadcasters, nascar drivers, phone and cable company technicians, UPS, Fed-ex and McDonald's employees, etc are, but how do I find a preacher?
Some final thoughts are, I don't wear a suit and tie all the time and I am not demanding that anyone has to dress a particular way. Every minister should dress to represent the Lord Jesus Christ in a Godly and respectful manner and it should be neat and pressed. We should not look disheveled, unkept, or disoriented. We should wear the best we have, when we represent Jesus Christ.
The entire church and service is designed
to please people and not the Lord. (2 Timothy 4:2-4)
The study is on to find out what the people want and then give it to them. That does not agree with the Bible or Jesus Christ. Find out what the Bible and Jesus wants the people to have and give it to them. We must not forget that we are working for Jesus Christ.
The people come as they are and leave as
they came because the
Holy Spirit is not
present to change them.
(2 Corinthians 3:18)
People should come as they are but never leave as they came. These churches make people feel good but no lasting change ever occurs. The Holy Ghost is not welcome and He is the only one that can change them.
The message is never designed to demand a response or action
from the people for fear of offending them.
(Hebrews 13:6)
This church model operates on competition and fear of failure seems to drive these churches. The decision is made to never offend anyone with the Bible, because they must grow their church at all costs. The people develop their own idea of who Jesus is and whether the Bible is true or not.
These churches have the works of the
flesh operating
through the Pastor,
Church Leaders and People.
(Jude 18-19, Galatians 5:19-21)
When these churches first came to light Jesus spoke to me and said, "All the works of the flesh will be in operation through these churches because they will not have the Spirit of God." All sexual sin, including homosexuality and lesbianism will thrive in this environment. Witchcraft and evil spirits will work through the flesh and many unbiblical actions will occur.
Jesus Christ stands at the door of this
church and knocks. Jesus spews them out of His mouth.
(Revelations 3:16, 20)
The message to the seven churches of revelations refers to real churches during that time period. I also believe it can refer to certain spiritual conditions of any era. I believe that the same spirit of the Laodicean church is at work today. They thought they had it all together, but Jesus said they were wretched, poor, blind and naked. They didn't need Jesus but Jesus said they did. This "new church model" exemplifies this same attitude today.
Satan has deceived this church
into believing a lie.
Theses churches will eventually fail
because
of sin and false doctrine being
revealed.
(Revelation 12:9; 2:5)
This church model has been deceived by Satan and anything he is involved in always fails. Sin will be exposed and the false will be revealed and it will fail. We must not copy this church model.
REVELATIONAL
CHURCHES
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18-19)
The central
truth of this church model is that they are committed to strict adherence to the Bible, Holy Ghost and the Lord Jesus Christ. This commitment causes them to walk in total victory over Satan.
CHARACTERISTICS OF
REVELATIONAL CHURCHES
These churches are committed to the
Word of God, the Lord Jesus and yield to the Holy Spirit.
(1 Timothy 4:13-16)
This church model, knows that there is a supernatural outpouring of the Spirit of God that we are in the edges of. They seek God in prayer and will not accept anything that does not come directly from heaven. They realize, that if you ever embrace the false you will never have the real.
These churches are based on the
teachings of the Bible with a strict
adherence to Biblical doctrines.
(Romans 16:17)
The Bible is the constitution of this church and they will not alter it to fit the ideology of any people group. They do not yield to the pressure of being politically correct or popular.
Worldly ways are not allowed in the
church
through any source or person.
(1 John 2:15)
This church knows that you can't be popular with the world and be powerful through Jesus Christ. They are not moved by what draws a crowd; they are moved by what the Lord Jesus wants. The way to heaven is straight and narrow and it is not crowded. If you find out which way that 80% of the church world is going, and go the opposite way, by default, you will be going in the right direction.
The Word of God, Holy Spirit, and miracles
are treasured and sought after
in these churches.
(Acts 4:29-31)
This church model is willing to pay the price of praying and seeking God for the miraculous. They know it is the only way to set the captive free and win the world to Jesus Christ, before it is too late.
The Pastor and Church Leaders spend
most of their time praying and studying
the Bible instead of playing.
(Acts 6:3-4)
They are filled with joy as they fellowship with the Lord Jesus and study His Word. They have crucified fleshly desires and discovered a place in the Spirit that few pay the price to find. During this time, they receive the wisdom of God and are filled with His power and walk in and teach others divine victory. They take time off and vacation with the Lord.
Messages are based on a Revelation
received from
the Lord in prayer and
Bible study.
(Galatians 1:12)
The ministers in this church model know that what the latest Corporate CEO, Movie Star or American Idol craze, etc, has said, have nothing to do with the message the church needs to hear. They are committed to speaking what the Lord Jesus has revealed them in His Word. The methods they use to reach people, and the message they speak are relevant because Jesus Christ approves them.
The Pastor and Ministers preach with the
anointing
of the Holy Spirit and Spiritual
Gifts
operate through them.
(Ephesians 4:11, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10)
This church model operates with the anointing of the Holy Ghost because they believe in the Holy Ghost, speak in tongues themselves, and boldly preach that all should have this experience. The gifts of the Spirit are in constant operation because they are believed in and taught to the people.
The Pastor, Leaders and people separate and
consecrate themselves to the Lord in
thought, lifestyle and deed.
(Ephesians 4:1, 1 Timothy 4:12)
This church model knows that without holiness no man shall see the Lord Jesus. They separate themselves from the world's ways, not because they dislike people of the world, but they love the Lord Jesus more. They know the closer they adhere to the Bible, the greater God's power and Glory will be in manifestation.
These churches pray and seek God for
everyone to know the Lord and be
baptized in the Holy Ghost.
(Acts 2:42; 8:15)
This church model is not concerned with being politically correct or popular with the world. They join the Apostle Paul in saying they are not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Word of God, the Holy Ghost and Jesus Christ are boldly proclaimed.
The church service is prayed out in
advance and carried out in accordance
with what
the Lord wants to do, not man.
(Mark 16:20, John 5:19)
This church model knows that the Lord only occupies what He designs. Moses built the tabernacle and King David had the temple built according to the heavenly pattern or plan. They know the Lord Jesus has a plan for every church and service and seek Him for it and put it into action.
The people are ministered to, refreshed
and equipped by the Holy Spirit to be
victorious in life.
(Romans 15:13, 1 John 5:4)
There is no lack of the Power of God, Holy Ghost and Gifts of the Spirit in this church model! The people always receive the anointing to walk in victory.
The message always requires a response
from the people. They are challenged to
grow in the Lord.
(Acts 20:32)
This church knows that people must make the decision to change and not remain the same. They are not afraid of offending them and ask them to make a choice to go on in the Lord. These people mature quickly.
These churches have the Fruit of the
Spirit, Ministry Gifts and
Gifts of the Spirit in operation.
(Galatians
5:22-24, Ephesians 4:11-12, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10)
This occurs because the people are taught the highest and best of the Word of God and challenged to obtain to it. They recognize all the ministry gifts, Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor and Teacher and have them into their churches to minister to the people. They understand that in most meetings, pastors minister in the majority and the body can never fully develop that way. The Gifts of the Spirit flow freely through these anointed ministry offices.
The Word of God, Holy Ghost and Jesus
Christ are welcome at all times.
(Acts 4:29-31)
It matters not who is in attendance; Jesus, the Holy Ghost and the Word of God will be given first place. Jesus is pleased with this attitude and action.
These churches are blessed by the Lord
and will eventually flourish and grow
because they
follow the
Lord Jesus Christ.
(Matthew 16:18-19)
These churches walk by faith in the fact, if they stay with the Lord Jesus they will prosper. They refuse to yield to the temptation of what is popular. They humble themselves under the mighty hand of God, for He will exalt them in due time!
THIS WAS KENNETH E. HAGINS KEYNOTE VERSE AND I HAVE ACCEPTED IT AS MY OWN.
Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. Psalm 127:1
REFORMATIONAL DECLARATION
Every Reformation has a declaration. The declaration of the one we are presently in is listed below. I ask you to join with me in adopting this as your declaration today and forever!
I WILL NOT COMPROMISE THE WORD OF GOD OR THE HOLY GHOST AND THROUGH JESUS CHRIST I EXERCISE DOMINION OVER THE DEVIL AND INFLUENCE THE
WORLD TOWARDS HEAVEN!
NOTE: The book, "Plans, Purposes & Pursuits", by Kenneth E. Hagin is an "Instruction Manual" given to the church by Jesus Christ. This book gives clear, exact and specific instructions on what Jesus wants and expects in the church today, if you want to follow his plans and purposes and pursue them. Jesus appeared to Dad Hagin for two hours and fifty-three minutes, on July 16, 1987 and gave him this revelation.
WORK ASSIGNMENT
Read, study and meditate on the book Plans, Purposes & Pursuits and put it into practice in your personal life, church or ministry.
Pray the Ephesians prayers found in Ephesians 1:16-23 & 3:14-21, twice daily for a minimum of 30 days for your own personal, spiritual development.
By
Rev. Randall A. Grier
-
How To Live A Successful Christian Life
The only way to live a successful Christian life is to understand the makeup of man. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:33, the human consists of three parts: spirit, soul and body. When you are born again, it is the spirit of man that is changed from spiritual death unto spiritual life. Because of Adam’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden, we inherited his spiritual sin-nature. When you receive Christ, you simply exchange spiritual nature’s. You exchanged the spiritual nature of sin for the spiritual nature of God, which is righteousness.more
A good example of this is me. For years I was a drug addict, alcoholic, and convicted felon. I hated what I had become and the lifestyle I lived. On many occasions, I had good intentions of never taking drugs or alcohol again, but I never succeeded. Usually within a few hours, I was drunker and higher than I had ever been before. When I got born again on my third escape from prison, I received the spiritual nature of God which empowered me to live a successful Christian life. In March of 1982, I was able to say NO to drugs, alcohol and crime, never again to return to them since that day. The Holy Spirit came into my spirit to help me live for Christ. The Apostle Paul said in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I can agree with Paul and so can anyone else who has been born again.
One of the first things you must understand is that your spiritual nature was changed, but your mind has to be renewed to think in line with God’s Word and your body has to be brought into subjection to God’s Word. The first desire that the born again person has is to please God with all their being: spirit, soul, and body. The Bible is God’s instruction manual on how to accomplish this feat. The first thing you have to do to please God is to read, study, and meditate upon God’s Word. The Bible tells us what to do with our mind, mouth, eyes, hands, feet, body and life. There is NOTHING that is left to question. Even though you may be able to quote the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and know exactly what the Bible tells us to do, you will never do what you know unless you add one key ingredient with it. This key ingredient is called, prayer.
It is in prayer that you receive the strength of God, which enables you to live what you read in the Bible. In Isaiah chapter 40, it says that they who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles and they shall run and shall not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
The Father sent Jesus, his Son, on a mission to earth to discover what it was like to live in a human body, as well as die for the sins of the human race. I believe that when Jesus got back to Heaven, He said, “Father, if you don’t send them some help, they will never live righteous.” Father God then sent the Holy Spirit to indwell each person who would receive Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. He never expects you to live the Christian life alone. That has been the downfall of many well-meaning Christians.
You will never successfully live for God until you spend time in prayer and the study of God’s Word. The person who thinks they can live successfully, without spending time in prayer, is only deceiving themselves. In John chapter 14, Jesus said He was going away, but that He would send another comforter to be with us forever. This comforter is the Holy Spirit. A simple definition of the word, “comforter,” is ‘one called alongside to help.’ He has been sent to help us live a Christian life. The only way you can help someone else, is to ask for help yourself and then allow the Holy Spirit to help you help them. He will help you if you will allow Him.
I would also like to encourage you, you may not become perfect overnight, but, with continued Bible study, prayer, and diligence, you will become more Christ-like each day. The Lord is continually working in us who trust in Him to perform His will through our lives. If you make a mistake or fall into sin, do not quit or give up! 1 John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins. All you have to do is apply this verse to your life intending on never falling into that trap again. God wants you to be a success more than you do. He is doing all He can to assure your success. All He needs is a willing individual that will find out what His Word says for them to do, pray and receive strength from God to do it. I am going to list some scriptures which will help you on your journey to success. Read these aloud to yourself and confess that you are what they say you are.
Romans 3:24; 8:1,2; 12:5;
1 Corinthians 1:2, 30: 15:22:
2 Corinthians 1:21; 2:14; 3:14; 5:17,19;
Galatians 2:4; 3:26, 28; 5:6; 6:15;
Ephesians 1:3, 10; 2:6,10,13; 3:6,13,14;
Colossians 1:28;
1 Thessalonians 4:16; 5:18;
1 Timothy 1:14;
2 Timothy 1:9,13; 2:1,10; 3:15;
Philemon 1:6;
2 Peter 1:8;
2 John 1:9
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
Make a conscious effort to allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in at least 5 decisions every day. Obviously, you want to grow to the point where everything you do or say is inspired by the Holy Spirit, but for now, let’s concentrate on at least 5 simple decisions a day. Example: Who should I talk to today and what should I say? What should I read? What table should I sit at during meals? Etc. Do this for at least one week and watch the wisdom and direction of God in your life.
-
GREAT RESULTS IN EXTENDED MEETING
moreGREAT RESULTS IN EXTENDED MEETINGI just ended an eighteen (18) day meeting in North Carolina that was a great success! Most nights the auditorium was filled with people that were hungry for the Word of God and for the move of the Holy Spirit. During the second week we begin to have notable miracles take place that further enhanced the expectation of the people. The first was a lady who had been totally deaf in her left ear for four years. Her ear popped opened instantly when hands were laid upon her. This created quite a stir among people she knew in the community and they begin to come to the meeting also. I will tell about other supernatural things later in another letter.GIFTS OF THE SPIRITThe gifts of the Spirit were in constant manifestation after a few days into the meeting. It seemed to take a while for us to get into the flow of what the Lord wanted to do and for the people to get stirred in their faith to expect these gifts. Many were ministered to along these lines and pastors and ministers who didn't believe quite like we did came to check out what was going on. These ministers kept returning and received spiritual impartations from the Holy Spirit that got them excited about the Word of God and believing God for miracles in their ministry.WHY HAVE AN EXTENDED MEETINGIn today's world, many Christians and preachers are too busy to seek God, in prayer, or spend time meditating on the Word of God, which builds and strengthens faith. Extended meetings brings people into wanting to seek God after a few services. Miracles begin to happen because they put the world and their problems behind them and the Bible and Jesus, in front of them. I will speak more about this later. The meeting was a great success and I appreciate Pastors Larry and Mari Westforth along with Jubilee Word of Faith Church for hosting and sponsoring this meeting so that many could be ministered to! (end)
-
OVERCOMING SATANIC ATTACKS
more
OVERCOMING SATANIC ATTACKS
Satanic oppression has been on the rise since last year and there was a great increase in January 2009, which continues today. Many have encountered this opposition and attacks in all areas of life, spiritually, physically, financially and mentally, etc. This came from an attitude of compromise from the church of Jesus Christ. Many Christians voted in the last presidential election based on emotions and not on what the Bible teaches. Some leaders in the church have given in to the pressure of the world system and decided the Bible doesn’t really mean what it says.
INTERESTING STATISTICS FROM THOSE WHO CALL THEMSELVES CHRISTIANS
1. Forty percent (40%) of Christians said they don’t believe that Satan is real but he is just symbolic of evil.
2. Fifty eight percent (58%) of Christians said that the Holy Spirit is a symbol of God’s power but that He is not a living present day entity or personality.
3. Twenty two percent (22%) of Christians said that Jesus Christ sinned when He lived on the earth, just like everyone else.
WHY CHRISTIANS\PEOPLE BELIEVE LIKE THEY DO
The preaching and teaching of the Bible by ministers form church people’s beliefs. If the minister does not preach on these subjects with chapter and verse from the Bible people will not know the truth. The church has become more image conscious than Bible and God Conscious. This come from a desperate attempt to attract those who could care less about the Lord Jesus or the Bible unless He lets them do what they want, regardless of what the Bible says. The church, as a whole, has changed its beliefs in the Word of God to accommodate this audience. The sad truth is that we have arrived at the mentality of come as you are and leave as you came.
SATAN HAS BEEN DEFEATED
The word of God plainly tells us that Satan was defeated and stripped of his authority over the Christian. See, Matthew 16:18-19, Mark 16:17, Luke 10:17-19, Colossians 2:15, James 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9. No where in the New Testament is the Christian told to pray for Our Father God or the Lord Jesus Christ to make the devil leave us alone. The Christian is always told to bind the devil in the name and blood of Jesus Christ.
From the statistics above, you can see why Satan is winning. If you don’t believe that the devil exists then you want take authority over him. I encourage you to study the Word of God and act upon it and the devil will leave you as he did Jesus, in Matthew chapter four.
The Lord has used me many times to set people free from demonic powers and has given me much, Biblically balanced revelation about this Bible subject. Visit my website store for good information that will be a blessing to you. I am praying for my partners and they will overcome all satanic attacks. (end)
-
A New Era Began In 1947
more
President Obama stated on April 6, 2009, "We do not consider ourselves a Christian nation or a Jewish nation or a Muslim nation. We consider ourselves a nation of citizens who are bound by ideals and a set of values."
This is not the first time Mr. Obama has made statements similar to this. His spiritual outlook on life was formed many years earlier by his parents, his education and his associations. It is not the person, President Obama, that made the statement that I want to examine. It is the antichrist, anti-Bible, anti-God spirit behind the statement that I want to identify and deal with. There are many other people that have the same views and ideas in the United States.
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. (Ephesian 6:12)
To understand this thinking and what brought us to President Obama making this statement in 2009 we must go back to the year of 1947. That is when this antichrist spirit came to prominence in the United States of America.
Everson V. Board Of Education, 1947
The 1947 landmark Supreme Court decision of Everson V. Board of Education, the separation of church and state was accepted as standard judicial policy. There were no constitutional grounds for this and it was never intended by the founders of this nation. It came directly from the devil and the supreme court voted and took the side of the devil in their decision. That one decision opened the door for the antichrist spirit to creep into this nation. Following this declaration, the Supreme Court and numerous lower courts began striking down religious activities and expressions which had been constitutional for the previous 150 years. This occurred because of a lack of knowledge in spiritual authority in the church and its failure to earnestly seek the Lord. We must turn to God and bind the works of Satan. (James 4:7)
Television Explosion, 1948-1949
There was a TV set explosion in U.S. homes at the end of World War II. Television can be used to spread good or evil. The truth is that TV has been used by Satan to spread more evil world wide than any other means. People would never think of so many evil things and ways to do them without seeing them on TV. The internet has now caught up with TV in this regard.
Homosexual Revolution In 1950
The first homosexual organization was founded in November 1950. It was called the Mattachine Society and promoted debased gay sexual rights. Sodom and Gomorrah was filled with this evil spirit when it was destroyed.
Elvis Presley, 1956
From the church pew to unbridled sensuality, history states that Elvis Presley single-handedly ushered in a whole new era in American culture. Things that had once been wrong and sinful were accepted as the new way to a generation. Sex, alcohol, drugs and violence became a common way of life.
Prayer Ruled Unconstitutional In School In 1962
In another landmark decision, the 1962 case of Engel V. Vitale, verbal prayer in public school was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court; even if it was voluntary and denominationally neutral.
Freedom Of Speech, 1965
In a landmark decision, in Stein V. Oshinsky (1965), freedom of speech was guaranteed to students and teachers unless the topic was religious; at which time it becomes unconstitutional.
Homosexual And Lesbian Rights In 1965
A gay march took place in front of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, PA, in 1965. This marked the beginning of gay rights in the United States.
Murder Legalized in 1973
In one of the most ungodly, debased Supreme Court decisions in the 1973 case Roe V. Wade, the legal murder of babies became law. Each time a human baby is murdered (aborted) the heinous laughter and screams of glee from demons can be heard in the regions of the damned. The baby is sacrificed to Satan, unknowingly, by those committing the abortion or murder.
1980s, 1990s, 2000s
The rebellion of the 1960's and 1970's flowed over into the 1980s. Many young people died with aids because of the homosexual and lesbian revolution as well as the free love mindset. Drugs and alcohol were plentiful and crack cocaine was introduced. Young and old alike were caught up in the drug culture.
This spirit has progressed to the point that in the 1990s and 2000s, the survival of trees, owls, whales, turtles, etc has become more important than human life. Same sex marriage is being pushed through the courts of the land. The goal of this entire way of thinking is to ban the Bible from the United States of America. I have not listed all the evil inspired by Satan in this article. I just wanted to show how it started and how we progressed to where we are in the United States in 2009.
A Wonderful Truth
The truth is that we have authority over all the powers of darkness and it is not too late to arise and command Satan to stop his maneuvers against this nation. And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. 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. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. (Luke 10:17-20)
The AntiChrist Spirit
Our President, some Supreme Court Justices, many in the Congress, and many people in the United States are under the influence of this evil spirit. We wrestle not against flesh and blood but against the powers of darkness, according to the Word of God. We can attack people with words, marches, riots, books and speeches because we don't approve of this, but it will not change the spirit behind it all. We must realize that Satan has already been defeated by the Lord Jesus Christ and enforce his defeat by commanding him to go, in the name of Jesus Christ. We must not fear anything but we must have faith in the Words of God. He will take care of and protect those who follow Him.
Why Compromise
The antichrist spirit is a compromising attitude when it comes to Jesus Christ and the Bible. All the decisions ruled upon by the Supreme Court about religion have been aimed at stopping the message of Jesus Christ and the teaching of the Bible. They have not been against other demonic religions. It is a direct attack from Satan, through people, against Christianity. People are being inspired and possessed by evil spirits to say and do these things against the Bible.
Compromising will only lead to Hell, so why should you or I compromise what the Bible plainly states. I will not bow to this diabolical, demonic, satanic and evil way, regardless of who says it.
