No golden calf needed here

Dead Idols and the Living God

Isaiah 46:3-4
“Listen to Me, O house of Jacob,
And all the remnant of the house of Israel,
Who have been upheld by Me from birth,
Who have been carried from the womb:
4 Even to your old age, I am He,
And even to gray hairs, I will carry you!
I have made, and I will bear;
Even I will carry and will deliver you.

This part of the scriptures gives us an understanding of how God's people in the Old Testament did not understand the difference between idol worship and worshipping the Living God. 
Stubbornness, rebellion, and ignorance. 

We are doing exactly the same today, nothing new under the sun. 

To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal
And compare Me, that we should be alike?
6 They lavish gold out of the bag,
And weigh silver on the scales;
They hire a goldsmith, and he makes it a god;
They prostrate themselves, yes, they worship.
7 They bear it on the shoulder, they carry it
And set it in its place, and it stands;
From its place, it shall not move.
Though one cries out to it, yet it cannot answer
Nor save him out of his trouble.
Is. 46:5-7

Why do we try to prefer something lesser and reject the Greater?  Because we are human and need to stay connected to the vine Jesus every day. If we are not making God our daily priority, we lose sight of what is and who is the truth, What is important and who is getting us out of our rud. 
Only God can save us......all the time. 

Selfidolization is one of the worst. Believing we are so much better and superior to others. Pride!
It kicked satan out of heaven!!

Let us go back to our first love every day. Spending time in His presence. Worshipping and praising Him for who He is and for His goodness toward us. 

Father: Today, our prayer is to see ourselves in You. Help us, Holy Spirit, empower us to look toward Jesus. Whenever and wherever we are in life. Remind us daily to reference God in all His fullness. And to be thankful people. In Jesus name AMEN

Wilderness....and what's it for

A few days ago
I was going for the news on CBN and this was on :

Superbook, the episode about::
“Nothing is impossible with God”

About Elizabeth and Zechariah being pregnant with John the Baptist

John grew up strong in Spirit and lived in the wilderness until his public ministry to Israel begins. Until God released him.

God is telling me that this is my life too. And to trust Him. Nothing is impossible with God. All the promises He made to me will come through. We are in the wilderness to grow in stature. spirit and favor.

Zechariah' voice was taken away by God until John was born. Because Zechariah showed unbelief.

God restricts His blessings when we are in the wilderness because He knows better. He knows what we can be trusted with and when. But He never leaves us nor forsakes us. 

At the appointed time, this will change and I will receive that what He has promised to me.

Knowing that. It took away the discouragement and freed my soul /heart.

Father, help us to see our time on this earth in your purpose. Help us not to be discouraged. Deliver us from evil and give us our daily bread. Help us to be a blessing to others as we are waiting for our blessings. In Jesus Name! AMEN

PEACE vs. terrror

Gaining Peace..... losing fear. Learning to trust God. Out of this comes then redemption.

This is, in essence, my walk with God. 

I want to share with you today, my experience yesterday with the Lord Jesus

The last few weeks, I became so overwhelmed with something, I didn't even know what it was. It wore me down and made me feel tired and exhausted, even disgusted.  

Then, I decided to engage 2 wonderful women from my church, I trusted them and I sat myself down for prayer time. 

Best decision ever, we were able to identify some lies, I had believed (starting in my childhood) and I was able to get free, by the Grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. 

These lies had caused pain and allowed the enemy to steal from me. Stealing the ability to receive God's blessings. We call that also inner healing of the soul. Exchanging the Truth of Christ with the lies of satan and his helpers to gain sanctified Freedom in Christ. Don't get me wrong: Christ did win our freedom on the cross for us over 2000 years ago, but we must be able to receive it. With this sanctifying inner healing, we are gaining a place of receiving His blessings.

In essence, God does all the delivering, healing and restoring. That itself was a lie I believed. Thinking I had to do that in a certain way. 

The Grace of God is sufficient for us to live our life according to His precepts. And as Paul said: "the renewing of the mind" can be done in various ways.....but always by God, through His word. 

Today, I walked into my local library and one of the ladies said: "what did you do, you look so different, healthy......smoothed out".

Haha, what she saw was the peace of Christ manifesting, especially because I was set free and my mind was renewed. 

And this is freedom, peace and renewing are for everyone. Not just me. I am not more loved or more special to God than anyone else. 

You can walk in peace and freedom!!

Ask me how I will gladly speak with you. 

Father, today my prayer is for freedom, delivery, and renewing of mind for my troubled brothers and sisters in Christ. Do for them what You did for me. And for those reading my blog, not knowing what it means to be saved in your arms for here and eternity, save them. In Your son's name I ask, thank you, Jesus. Amen

He - The Holy Spirit makes me laugh

Does it ever happen to you, that The Holy Spirit brings something funny to your remembrance?
 Laughing at myself

So this morning, I sat in the presence of God. And I had this picture of myself, struggling with staying focused and awake, praying. And now, I am spending hours with the Lord. Not that I would boast in myself to be able to do so. but boasting in the Lord for His Love, Grace, and Mercy which enables me to do anything.

We all have to start somewhere. Spend 5-10 minutes to begin, with God in the morning or evening. I find that if I spend time in the morning with the Father, my day goes better.. As I said, it used to be a major struggle to focus and not fall asleep. Distraction and sleepiness are the main problems in spending time with God. Of course, there is also the enemy of our soul who would want nothing better than to keep us away from the Father.

I prefer to listen to worship music. While praying and waiting on the Lord speaking to my heart. It helps me to completely focus on God and not on what I want to eat for breakfast next, or whatever I have on my schedule for today.




Praying and reading the Word of God. is crucial to understanding who God is. To learn about His character and learning to trust Him. As you begin our journey into deeper intimacy with God, use a devotional which gives you daily scripture. This way you feed on the Word and be encouraged for the day. I like the ones on Biblegateway.com. But any Bible-centered one is good.

My prayer today: Father, help us by Your Grace to get to know you, God in a deeper way. Help us to stay focused as we sit with you. Holy Spirit, teach us the ways of God so that we have a more fulfilled life in Jesus. Protect us and lead us today. Give us the courage to face this day with Your joy, being out strength.
In Jesus Name, AMEN

God is good!

God is good!

How can I be sure God is good?

In Genesis 1-1:31 it tells us 5 times that God calls His creation good. It came from a God that makes good things.......so He is good!
Everything He created was intended to be good, especially for men, which He created in His image.

One of my favorite American Christian apologist
Ravi Zacharias made a great point about being created in Gods image.

Ravi said: "When Jesus answered the disciples in regards to paying taxes. Whose image do you see on the coin? They replied: Caesars. Jesus then said: Give to Ceasar what belongs to Ceasar. and give to God what belongs to God."

The next question could and should have been: Jesus asks the disciples: "What image is on you?"

Today, the question I ask is: Which image do you show? Is it kindness, gentleness, love, longsuffering?
Or maybe anger, frustration, haughtiness, impatience?

In order to allow God to display His image through us, we have to give Him, us, our ....

Colossians 1:15
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation (Speaking of Jesus)
If Jesus is in our hearts, the image of God is in us. Therefore, we are able to display the ....

My prayer for us today:
Father, we are asking for your grace to display Your image, shining through Jesus, who is in us. Help us to show all good things of God to our fellow man, woman, and child. Cleanse our hearts from all unrighteousness so that we may continue to walk with You into all eternity. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. AMEN

Encourage each other!

Encouragement is what's on the schedule today

When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all that with the purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord  Acts 11:23

This is speaking about Barnabas being sent out, even as far as to Antioch. He was not in his familiar surroundings, and it must have taken a long time to travel. Not as easily getting there like today, but much walking and traveling on the back of some sort of animal I am sure was needed. 

Still, when he, Barnabas arrived in Antioch, he encouraged those who were from there. Yes, we have to get out of our comfort zone sometimes to encourage others. 






      In return, we reap what we sow. 

Our encouragement should always point to Jesus and not just become a phrase used in this world system. Our encouragement needs to be of live-giving proportions. We do all things in Christ and not of our own. We are His vessel, therefore He will provide our very speech and for our actions. 

"You are made in the image of God, therefore you are Not a mistake. He thinks the world of you!! He is love and loves you with an everlasting love. He will go after you and provide your every need if you abide in His son Jesus, You are born again, with access to all Blessings from Heaven."

The best way to go about it is our own experience with God. When He made a way where there seemed to not have been a way. Use the Word of God (scripture).














 My Prayer today: Father, we thank You that we are not orphans without an anchor. We are asking You today to help us not be consumed with our own life but to find those that need to be encouraged in You! Those who are near giving up, being entangled in the Webb of lies and accusation from their enemy. Jesus, we are thankful for Your life-giving Word and You being the Bridge, the Way and the Door to our Father in Heaven. Fill us to overflow with Your Holy Spirit and guide our every step. In Jesus' Name. AMEN

Please leave prayer request if you like. 

Beware of what creeps into your life and church

"[ Destructive Doctrines ] But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction." 2Peter 2:1"

"[ Deceptions of False Teachers ] For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error." 2Peter 2:18

You see, these two verses speak of false teaching and false doctrines. Which can happen for all kind of reasons. Men can have selfish ambitions and use scripture in the wrong context. Men can be influenced by greed and pride. Or culture formed in this world outside of the church can influence the teachings of Christ. Whether on purpose or by ignorance, the Word of God apparently can be used wrongly and can be taught falsely.

Doctrine is defined in Webster's dictionary as:

- A principle of law established through past decisions

- Something that is taught

- A principle or position or the body of principles in a branch of knowledge or system of belief: DOGMA

Throughout the centuries, the cultures in this world have often influenced the Church of God. Instead of the Chruch influencing the culture with the message of Jesus in total. The result is that there is a minimal influence and minimal change in people and therefore His witness is of no value to those who do not follow the truth of Christ.

When we look at the prayer model, Jesus gave us, we find the Church of God lacking. Yes, the Word says that the Church shall prevail, But unfortunately, the culture of this world has a vast negative influence of in the prosperous life Jesus promised us in John 10:10.

Half-truth taught is not the whole truth. Truth taught with the wrong motives is not bringing life to the hearer. The Word says that by His Word and sacrifice on the cross, we shall be set free....and free indeed. Jesus' motive to teach us life has never been selfish, never been unloving.

"My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment." James 31

Most importantly, do not follow the cultural standard of this world, but be renewed in your mind and follow Jesus.

"But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:20-24

Father my prayer today is for your Church to follow Jesus and nothing but Jesus!! Let us not be led astray. Let us not be enticed by fame, fashion and lust of this world. Father, let us be content and thankful for Who You are in our lives You are the God of this universe, and You are all we need. In Jesus' Name AMEN

God's gift are for us to enjoy

 

When we begin to understand the depth of relationship we can have with God, it lightens the burden in our life. It just puts everything in perspective.

 His burden is easy, His yoke is light.

Matthes 11:29-30

|As I begin to go deeper into the realm of God, where His will becomes more clear to me. I experience my emotional, spiritual and physical needs are being met in a way that does not cause burdens. 

I can see His path for me more early and can enjoy the adventure set before me. The path then is lush and good to my soul. My soul will be quiet and is in peace. 

Trust yourself deeper into the presence of God. There is no end to His love for us. His gifts to us should cause us to want more of Him. HIs goodness is pulling us closer to His heart. 

I am learning, once again to take in nature and all gifts from Him with joy and thankfulness. Not to rush, trying to reach a result. But to take in the beauty of His creation.

My prayer today: Father, by Your Grace, help us to sink into your arms. Help us to find You in deeper waters, safe and secure in Your presence. Open our eyes and ears to receive Your wisdom for our daily life. In Jesus'  name AMEN

We need you Holy Spirit

 

 "Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?" 
1 Corinthians 3:16

Just imagine this for a moment. 
WE are the temple of the Holy Spirit.....wow that is utterly amazing. 

How can our earthly vessels hold such a powerful being?? Glad you are asking ;)

Just as Jesus comes to live in us, the Holy Spirit will dwell in us, when invited.

"And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit,"
Ephesians 5:18

This means that we should be filled with the Holy Spirit. His power (dunamis: sounds like dynamite.....right?) will help us to be the extension of God in prayer. Prayer for healing, deliverance, setting the captives free and more. The Holy Spirit helps us to overcome obstacles in the flesh and demonic realm.

"But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you."

So then, in us dwells the same Holy Spirit who raised Christ from the dead.....once again WOW. Just let that sink into your heart and mind. 

Even in these days that WE live in, He is not a smaller Holy Spirit version with us. He is just as powerful as He was in the days when God created the earth. He is just as powerful as in the days when Jesus walked on this earth, performing miracles. 

It brings me such joy to see Him move in peoples lives. Setting the captives free and bringing people closer to the Father. 

When I get the opportunity to pray people out of their hellish way of living on this earth, it blesses me tremendously. We cooperate with the Spirit of God to break the bondage (chains) that the enemy has entangled us in so that we can see this precious Freedom in Christ. (Isaiah 61:1-11, Luke 4:1)

Letting go of our worldly ways, lies  and deception by the enemy, always brings rewards of heaven: FREEDOM and BLESSINGS in Christ. 

My prayer today:
Father, help us to let go of the world and set us free from bondage. And send us, your servants to those who need YOU. Thank You, Jesus, that the Holy Spirit is with us all to bring heaven to earth. In Your name Jesus, we ask. AMEN

What path am I on?

A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. 
Prov. 16:9

Just recently, I have experienced some major change (again) and are still in transition. When I moved to my current location, I had all kind of ideas on how (finally) I would see the promises of the Lord. Well, nothing :( came to flourish. 

So, I allowed myself to start agonizing over the process, in which I found myself for a few weeks. Needless, I can tell you. 

Then, one day, I finally said: "God! What is going on here??" I was desperate to find the answer.

And the answer was not what I expected. First of all, He wanted me to move to another location and not stay where I was. I started to understand, 2018 was a short mission trip. But for a very important reason. Then, I realized that where God wanted me to move on to, was where the beginning of the promises are. 

The very exciting beginning of another mission/season was not seen by me, because I did not listen enough and didn't wait for the instructions of the Lord. I had it in my mind, what should happen.

I am sharing this with you today, to help those of you that are STUCK. Are you listening and agreeing with God where you should be and where not?  God will allow chaos if we are disobedient, to get our attention. 

After getting my marching orders, life is in balance again and foremost in peace!! Now I am able to listen more clearly and can hear where my next step is going. 



We are His sheep and He is our shepherd. The Word says that we CAN hear the Shepherds voice and we will NOT follow another. The problem is if we are not listening or we are far away, we are hearing.

So take time and sit still in His presence of Your Father, with your Bible and listen to the Shephard speaking, through His Holy Spirit and by reading the Word of God. Which is alive and life-giving. 

My prayer today: Father, help your sons and daughters to hear YOUR voice clearly, Lead them where YOU want them to be. Replace chaos with the peace of Christ. In Jesus' name. AMEN

If you need prayers for anything, don't hesitate to leave your request. It will be my pleasure praying for you. 

Happy New Year - Happy New Path

Another year, another path. 

Every January, I ask the Lord for a personal word and direction for the year ahead. It is one of my favorite times because a new time of adventure unfolds. 

This is far from a so-called 
"New Year's resolution" but rather an inquiry on what God has for me for the upcoming year. 
Yes, we need to ask for our needs. But this particular time is really more about what God (HE) has in mind for me. And being connected to a local church congregation, it is very much in line with the vision given to them by God.

If you have never taken the time to ask God for a specific Word/direction for you.....just do it! Especially at the beginning of a new year. 

It sets the tone for our walk with God. It gives us greater purpose and relationship with the Creator. 
He loves to reveal His secrets to us. All to our benefit and growth. Being filled with the wisdom of God to overflow. So that we can influence those around us in a godly, positive way. 

Maybe this year you find that He has a new door for employment open for you. Or perhaps preparation for a move to a new location. But most importantly, maybe He shows you more of you and what needs to be laid down on the cross, to gain freedom and blessing.

Either way, time spent at the beginning of the year will always be a rewarding moment that lasts and gives. 

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. James 3:17





If you like, leave comments, questions and prayer needs. I will be glad to and pray and rejoice with you.  

That will be all for this time. 
Farewell and may the blessings of the Lord overtake you.