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Arise and Shine
Light always overcomes darkness. God has caused His light to shine in us, through us, so it is time for us to ARISE AND SHINE! We do not have to fear the darkness – it has to fear us!
When light invades the darkness, one of two things must occur. The darkness will either FLEE or BE CHANGED into light!
Rise up, man and woman of God!
Arise, shine; For your light has come!
And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the LORD will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Lift up your eyes all around, and see: They all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from afar, and your daughters shall be nursed at your side (Isaiah 60:1-4 NKJV)Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever (Daniel 12:3 NKJV)
For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6 NKJV)
In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it (John 1:4-5 NKJV)
…that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15 NKJV)
The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace (Numbers 6:24-26 NKJV)
Arise and shine as His Glory shines through you! -
The God of More
“Space: the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before…”
Star Trek – The Original Series
Though I wouldn’t consider myself a Trekkie, I really did like the old Star Trek series with William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and DeForest Kelly. I was 12 years old when the series first aired.
What an imagination Gene Roddenberry had!
Have you ever stopped to think how contagious “imagining” can be? I’d watch the show and before it was finished, I’d be dreaming of my “space”; a frontier I needed to explore. To go beyond my “normal” existence, beyond my existing boundaries, and reach for something only my imagination could describe.
Isn’t that how God made us?
Can you try and imagine how big and powerful God is? Even just for a moment, try and imagine.
Creator of Heaven and Earth, all that is seen and unseen. Laws of physics, laws of nature, moral laws, everything good and perfect; all created and governed by God. “He is before all things, and in Him all things consist, or hold together.”
When you finish imagining the greatness of God, try and measure His beauty. Or His love. His justice, righteousness, hope, peace, joy, faith, grace…
Whatever you and I can imagine about God, He is MORE! He is beyond our comprehension, above the ceiling of our imagination. He is MORE!
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isa 55:8-9
His thoughts and ways are higher than ours. He is MORE.
But He makes a statement that should get each of us dreaming, imagining, and ready for action! In verses 6 and 7 of Isaiah 55 the Lord says, “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” In other words, “leave your thoughts, forsake your ways, and find Mine. Find they are MORE. Find I AM MORE!”
He then adds, “you shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace. The mountains and the hills will rejoice over you with singing and shouting…” Take the word spoken here and imagine…
God created mankind to walk in His abundance, not lacking “any good thing”. Created to rule, to govern, and to multiply His image throughout the earth. Created in His image, with the ability to imagine, in accordance with His will.
As far as God was concerned, mankind was given the ability to dream impossible dreams, imagine unimaginable victories, and walk in the “more” of God.
And it’s not any different today. “God is able to do exceeding, abundantly above all we ask or even think…” Ephesians 3:20.
“Then why does God seem so ‘limited’ these days”, you may ask. Could it be you and I have limited Him by testing Him and not believing Him? Imaginations can stir up faith or unbelief. We are the ones who determine what we “explore”.
He says,
“Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation” Psalm 68:19
What does our imagination do with that?He says,
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” Psalm 103:2,3
Do we see Him as the God of “MORE”?He says,
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you…thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Can we see the same thing, or do we despise His Word?He says,
“Honor the Lord with what you have and what you get. The Lord will make certain your cupboards are full. You will have MORE than enough for yourself and others.” Proverb 3:9,10; 2 Corinthians 9:8
Well?Let’s think of our life as a voyage, a voyage of unimaginable adventure in God. Boldly going where we once were afraid to go. Boldly going because we know we aren’t traveling alone.
Whether we’re exploring strange new worlds or seeking out new life and new civilizations, we can boldly go because…
The God of “MORE” is with us.
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The Network
Network.
What does the word “network” mean to you? Anything? Everything? Nothing?
It’s really developed into a big thing over the last dozen years or so. The word has a variety of definitions with a common theme “tying” them all together. The common theme is “connecting”. Connecting various parts, people, purposes, and whatever to form a network. Kind of like a spider’s web with its sticky, silk-like strands sewn together for one purpose. Or the human body with all its various parts, some large, some small, some seen and others hidden; but functioning together for a single objective.
Network.
As an ordained Assemblies of God minister, I, too, am part of a network. In fact, the District I belong to is officially named The Iowa District Council of the Assemblies of God, but does business using the name “Iowa Ministry Network”.
I must admit, I have at times been critical of my network. And while I have not broadcast my criticisms far and wide, in fact they haven’t left my house; still, my own personal feelings have affected the network to some degree.
Really? How can the personal feelings and criticisms of one individual affect a network of a few hundred members? Can critical thoughts alone have an impact on a network? It’s very possible.
Consider the network examples used earlier; the spider web and the human body. Let’s say one strand of the web was damaged deliberately. Even one damaged strand can diminish the web’s effectiveness.
The network’s effectiveness.
When I was young feller, I got a kick out of irritating spiders. I know, I’m weird, but when I saw a spider web, I’d toss little rocks, twigs, cigarette butts and pieces of paper into the web to see if the spider would react. Usually it would appear momentarily, then dart back into hiding. By the time I was finished, the “network” was in need of repair. And I’m sure the spider was thinking of a way to get even.
A number of years ago, while working as a painter in a foundry, I did something stupid and unsafe. I was painting heavy man-hole cover rings, weighing about 300 pounds. The parts were to be dip painted by using a small hoist and hook, dipping the part into the paint, then letting it hang over the paint while it dried. I didn’t use the correct hook and, as a result, dropped the casting onto my foot. All of a sudden, my body was offended and my foot broken.
My “network” was greatly damaged.
Even though my foot was the only part damaged, my whole body had to change what and how it did things for quite some time. As with the spider web, one broken part limited the strength of the network.
Using these analogies, suppose the broken web and busted foot kept quiet about their pain, their offense, and didn’t let the other parts of their network know they were hurting or offended. Would the web or body have noticed right away. Probably not. Not until there was a situation requiring the network’s full strength. Like when a huge bug slams into the web…
Paul wrote to the Ephesians about networking. He used the human body as the example. Actually, he referred to the Church of Jesus Christ as “the Body of Christ”. A Body, made up of parts joined together, networking for a common purpose.
“And He Himself (Jesus) gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head – Christ – from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” (Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV)
There’s one part I would like to draw your attention to: “from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies…” Joined and knit together BY WHAT EVERY JOINT (or strand of spider web) SUPPLIES.
For a network to be strong, EVERY JOINT must supply something of value to the rest of the network.
I began to realize my complaints were not helping build a strong network. Complaints don’t add to a network’s value, they only detract. Avoiding fellowship doesn’t add value either.
Ever hear someone say, “If I can’t say anything good, I won’t say anything at all”? That is not what I’m talking about. Paul wrote, “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” (Ephesians 4:29 NLT) In other words, we all need to add value to those around us; those in our network. Don’t just keep quiet, saying nothing. Find something good to say so value will be added to YOUR network.
It’s also true in a local church body. The local church is a network.
What are you adding to the local body? What is your “joint” supplying to others? What do you say about your leaders? Encouraging words or venomous words?
I choose to add value to everything I’m connected to. My words will be words of blessing. I will only think the best of others. I will pray for my networks, believing God to give each member strength, wisdom, and total prosperity.
After all, we’re a network.
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Rockabilly Music
Rockabilly music!
In the early 50’s, a new style of music emerged. It was dubbed “Rockabilly Music.” Some of the main singer/songwriters were Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, and Bill Haley and the Comets. It was a fun type of music, with simple lyrics, toe-tapping rhythms, a new style of electric guitar picking, boogie bass lines and riotous drum beats.
I really like that old Rockabilly music!
The music wasn’t really complicated; generally using only 3 or 4 chords per song. But the musicians were using those few chords and progressions to break out of the old mold, creating a whole new style.
Rockabilly music!
I was born about the time all this was taking place: 1954. Of course I was too young to hear people’s reaction to the new style, but I can just imagine what some of the comments were. People are people, regardless of their age or culture. Most people don’t like change, or they find change extremely difficult. Whether it’s a new technical program or a new style of music, some folks really struggle with change. And I’m sure their comments reflected their struggle.
Christians are like that as well. Especially those who have walked with God for any length of time. Seems like the longer we walk with God, the more set in our ways we become; the more we resent change. Okay, maybe we don’t resent it. We just don’t want any part of it.
Yet change, creating new things, is something God is always doing! Yes, it’s true. He doesn’t change, but He is changing things, changing people. And because of our resistance and struggle with change, we can find ourselves resisting, resenting, His work.
It comes down to a matter of trust, don’t you think? I mean, if we say we really want to do His will, does that mean we’ll do it but only if we understand it, agree with it, or can explain it?
The Lord said, “Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore.” (Isaiah 65:17 NLT)
That in itself is amazing to me! He’ll create something new, replacing the old, and people won’t complain about it. They “won’t even think about the old ones anymore.” There IS hope for us, eh?
The Lord also told His disciples, “a new commandment I’m giving you…” What? What was the matter with the old?
“Why do we need a new one?”, I could just hear someone say.
Paul wrote to the Colossians: “put on your new nature, getting rid of the old.” We are much more comfortable with the old! We’ve learned how to use the old to our “advantage”. We really like the way it makes us feel at times; how it strokes our ego and pampers our pride. “Put on the new…?!?” Ha! Paul must have been kidding!
The message I’m trying to convey can be summed up using Jesus’ words: “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is PLANTED IN THE SOIL AND DIES, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful HARVEST OF NEW LIVES.” (John 12:24 NLT)
In other words, the new things God is desiring to do in and through us don’t really have a chance of growing, or succeeding, if we don’t allow the old to die. We need to release the old and embrace the new.
That’s hard. That’s how it was 60 years ago when Rockabilly Music was introduced; and that’s how it is today.
I really like the old music; the beat, the guitar picking, the simple lyrics. What fun. But it doesn’t really matter if I do or not. It’s only music. It isn’t a matter of life or death.
Not so the Christian walk.
You see, if I’ve really decided to walk with God, my old ways, habits, thoughts, desires…all that stuff needs to yield to the NEW things God is trying to do in my life.
You do, too.
And just think, after a while, we may start enjoying the “music.”
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Hands
Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them (Acts 19:11,12 NKJV)
Ordinary hands. Unusual miracles.
Not your ordinary, everyday, common, plain, typical type of miracle.
“…so that EVEN…” Unusual miracles PLUS!
All of this extraordinary stuff through the hands of a guy who said he was “chief of sinners.”
Hands that once held the coats of those who stoned Stephen to death.
Hands used to carry letters, authorizing him to find and imprison believers in Jesus Christ.
Isn’t it amazing what hands can do after the heart has been changed by Jesus?
Just think what God does (and has done) with His hands:
-Formed the dry ground
-Formed man from the dust of the ground
-Held Adam’s head while He breathed into him the Breath of Life
-Placed Adam in The Garden
-Measures the size of the universe, and the waters of the earth
-Delivered the children of Israel from Egyptian bondage
-Upholds all who trust in Him
-Defeats His enemies
-Feeds His creation
-Works truth and judgment
-Leads His people
-Opens blind eyes and deaf ears
-Heals the sick and raises the dead
-Holds the keys to Death and Hell“His coming is as brilliant as the sunrise. Rays of light flash from his hands, where his awesome power is hidden.” (Habakkuk 3:4 NLT)
“Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God.” (Romans 6:13 NLT)
Just think what God could do with your hands; your “instrument of righteousness”, if you’d let Him have your heart.
I believe I know what you’re thinking. You’re saying to yourself, “I’m a Christian! He has my heart.” Okay, I’ll buy that.
But is there a bit of fear in your heart? A fear of allowing God the freedom to use you in unusual and uncomfortable ways? A fear of letting go of your dreams and desires, and taking His plans into your hands? A fear of embracing those whom society has simply discarded, abandoned, and left for an eternity separated from the God of Love?
Is fear present in your heart? A fear that you’ll fail if you start obeying God’s voice, His leading? Do you fear God won’t answer or confirm His word with an accompanying sign, after you’ve laid your hands on the sick?
You don’t need to fear! Remember His hands? They are pointing you in the direction you should go, AND they are upholding you AS you go. His hands are protecting and empowering you, so release the fear and allow faith in God to rule your heart.
Your heart, my heart, isn’t different than anyone else’s, including Paul’s.
Neither are your hands.
Ordinary hands.
Hands God can use to work unusual miracles.
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Citywide Revival
It’s Time! Time to believe God for citywide revival. My city, your city, any and every city.
“Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.”
Below are some things the Lord showed me about initiating and sustaining a citywide revival. Understand, when I mention “revival” I’m not referring to a series of evangelistic meetings, special services, crusades, or anything like that. While God could use those things, I’m referring to an “awakening” of sorts. Like, when God brought revival to the city of Nineveh.
God longs to restore every man and woman, boy and girl, to their original position and purpose in Him. And He is able and willing to do that very thing; He just needs co-workers, laborers, who will join with Him for our cities.
Don’t read these “points” and feel this is all that’s necessary for citywide revival. These are only things the Lord revealed to me. May He help us hear and obey His voice.
1) Faith is necessary for citywide revival.
Gen 45:27
But when they told him all the words which Joseph had said to them, and when he saw the carts which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived.As substance and evidence was given, verifying Joseph was still alive, the heart of Jacob was given new life. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Joseph’s words and carts were evidence of what Jacob hoped for.
Faith revives the heart. Faith can save a city and restore lost sons and daughters.
2) Humility is necessary for citywide revival.
Judg 15:19
So God split the hollow place that is in Lehi, and water came out, and he drank; and his spirit returned, and he revived. Therefore he called its name En Hakkore, which is in Lehi to this day.Lehi means jaw-bone. God split the hollow place (tooth socket) of the jaw-bone and a fountain erupted, reviving Samson. Samson therefore called the place “Fountain”.
“God fills the hungry with good things, but the ones who are full, or satisfied, go away empty. To the hungry, even bitter things are sweet. But those who are full loathe the honeycomb.” Luke 1:53 and Proverbs 27:7
“God resists the proud, the filled, the satisfied; but gives His grace, His ability to the humble.” “For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, With him who has a contrite and humble spirit, To revive the spirit of the humble, And to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” James 4; Isaiah 57
God uses the lowest, the emptiest, to pour forth His Fountain of Revival.
3) Carrying the burden for the city is necessary for citywide revival.
1 Kings 17:22
Then the Lord heard the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the child came back to him, and he revived.The owner of the house’s son died. She said to Elijah, “Did you come to show me how sinful I am? Is that why my son was killed?” Elijah said, “Give me your son.”
Revival comes when we begin to bear the burdens of those in authority over us; those who are in control. Instead of just showing people their sin, begin to bear their concerns, those things that have them at their wits end.
Elijah took the burden, carried it to his private quarters, and interceded on its behalf. Reminds me of 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If My people…” Also, 1 Timothy 2:1-4, where Paul exhorts us to pray for everyone in authority…because He wants everyone to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.
God heard the words of Elijah and brought revival.
4) Connecting with past revivals is important for a new, citywide revival.
2 Kings 13:21
So it was, as they were burying a man, that suddenly they spied a band of raiders; and they put the man in the tomb of Elisha; and when the man was let down and touched the bones of Elisha, he revived and stood on his feet.Past revivals may appear dead and gone, but the God of revival is not. Reading books, testimonies, and sermons of key “players” of past revivals can help stir the heart and challenge the mind to believe for more of the same. “Rubbing shoulders” with people who have been where God is leading us is a key to receiving the “revival impartation”.
God takes dead bones and creates a revived army.
5) Recognizing God’s favor and timing is necessary for citywide revival.
Ezra 9:8,9
And now for a little while grace has been shown from the Lord our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a peg in His holy place, that our God may enlighten our eyes and give us a measure of revival in our bondage. For we were slaves. Yet our God did not forsake us in our bondage; but He extended mercy to us in the sight of the kings of Persia, to revive us, to repair the house of our God, to rebuild its ruins, and to give us a wall in Judah and Jerusalem.Open doors, open opportunities can seem so rare; so hard to come by. To the point we may miss an opportunity because we didn’t recognize the timing. “Trust in the Lord all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding…” Proverbs 3. God is working behind the scenes when we don’t see anything happening. It may appear, for a season, that God hasn’t heard our prayers, doesn’t care about us or our city, and just wants to be left alone. But we must pay close attention to the voice of God so we’ll hear Him say, “The set time has come…”
I’m certain those in captivity were amazed when things began to change in their land. God raised up leaders for a whole new movement. It was important for them to move while the door was open.
Doors do not stay open forever, so be prepared to move when they open.
6) Opposition is common to every citywide revival.
Expect it, but don’t let it divert your focus and energies.
Neh 4:2-3
And he spoke before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, “What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they fortify themselves? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they complete it in a day? Will they revive the stones from the heaps of rubbish — stones that are burned?” Now Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, “Whatever they build, if even a fox goes up on it, he will break down their stone wall.”Ps 138:6-7
Though the Lord is on high, yet He regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me.Opposition comes in many forms. Words, physical, emotional, and spiritual attacks are some of the devices the adversary uses. Stirring up brother against brother is another.
Don’t believe everything you hear, read, feel, or experience. Take it to the Lord and get His advice and direction. He is the One Who covers you, and Who will stretch out His hand toward your enemy.
Opposition cannot stop the move of God, if those moving with God don’t stop.
7) Patience is necessary for any citywide revival.
God doesn’t always move at “man’s speed.” But He’s never late.
Hos 6:2-3
After two days He will revive us; On the third day He will raise us up, That we may live in His sight. Let us know, Let us pursue the knowledge of the Lord. His going forth is established as the morning; He will come to us like the rain, Like the latter and former rain to the earth.It’s important for us, and our cities, to not let up, give in, or allow our focus to be redirected. Every past move of God has ended because the people quit moving with God. Why? Mainly because people grew tired of waiting or working. The things of God don’t
necessarily “fall on us” like a bottle of pop from a pop machine. Following His plans, His steps, and His voice, are all important; but those things are not the magic coin we drop in the “God’s Promises Slot.”Even Mary had to wait nine months for the new move of God to be birthed.
“By faith AND patience you obtain the promise of citywide revival.”
Let us believe God for our cities. As Abraham, David, Isaiah, Paul, Jesus and others have done.
For the set time has come, to rebuild ‘Jerusalem’; Jerusalem – your city.
You will arise and have mercy on Zion; for the time to favor her, yes, the set time, has come. For Your servants take pleasure in her stones, and show favor to her dust. So the nations shall fear the name of the Lord, and all the kings of the earth Your glory. For the Lord shall build up Zion; He shall appear in His glory. He shall regard the prayer of the destitute, and shall not despise their prayer. Ps 102:13-17
[all scriptures NKJV] -
Worship Is Not A Magic Lamp
Part 3 of “An Open Letter To Worship Teams”
“Do we sometimes treat worship like a modern day Aladdin’s Lamp?”
There’s a word, a thought, I’d like to share with everyone, especially every believer.
But particularly with anyone who is part of a worship team.
The thought is this: God is not trying to hide from you. He hasn’t locked Himself away from you, expecting you to figure out the lock combination before He’ll “step out into the open.” He does not expect our times of worship to be a production, dance steps, or an equation of so many fast and slow songs. None of those things will automatically produce the Presence of God.
God will not be manipulated. He will, however, respond to simple, from the heart, worship. In fact, Psalm 22:3 says God is enthroned, or seated comfortably, on the praises of His people.
Please read the following verses. See if you can sense God’s desire to fellowship with His people.
Gen 2:7
And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.Ex 25:21-22
You shall put the mercy seat on top of the ark, and in the ark you shall put the Testimony that I will give you. And there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, about everything which I will give you in commandment to the children of Israel.Ex 40:33-35
So Moses finished the work. Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.2 Chron 5:13-14
indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the Lord, saying: “For He is good, For His mercy endures forever,” that the house, the house of the Lord, was filled with a cloud, so that the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the Lord filled the house of God.Ps 84:1-2
How lovely is Your tabernacle, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints For the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.Rev 21:3
And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.
[all scriptures NKJV]
God never intended for us to treat worship like Aladdin treated his lamp.
The truth is – GOD is the One Who has been chasing man for the past 6,000 years.
He’s the One Who created man, filled him with His heavenly breath, and fellowshipped with him throughout the day. God’s the One Who told Moses to build the Tabernacle; a place where God and man could fellowship through the offering of an animal’s blood.
God is the One Who filled the Tabernacle with His Presence, much like He filled Adam’s lungs with His breath.
Later on, King Solomon built the Temple and sanctified all the instruments, singers, musicians and priests; dedicating them to the Lord. As soon as everything was prepared, God, once again, filled the place with His breath, His Spirit.
And, it is God Who has planned to tabernacle, dwell, fellowship, with man forever and ever. It is God’s Son Who offered His blood so we could have eternal fellowship with Him.
Who needs a lamp and a genie?
But don’t expect every “worship experience” to be the same. Sometimes, when the Lord steps into our room, it is simply to receive our worship and fellowship with us. He doesn’t make a huge entrance; but those who were expecting Him, are waiting for Him. “Seeing” Him walk in, they usher Him to His favorite chair. From His place of enthronement, He communes with His family. He and His kids, enjoying each other’s company.
Other times His appearance may be so subtle, one doesn’t even know He’s in the room. People all around, talking, laughing, enjoying each other’s presence. He sits quietly, listening to our conversations, ready to join in. But only when asked. Though He is jealous, He isn’t rude. He loves us so much, yet He will not force Himself upon us or into our world.
Every so often He’ll step into our world like He stepped into Abraham’s. In the heat of the day (Gen. 19) God came calling. Abraham recognized Him and asked Him to stay a while so he could serve Him properly. So Abraham worshipped God by feeding Him. THEN, the actual purpose of the visit became clear. Worship led to intercession, with God drawing Abraham into His plans and purposes for the deliverance of Lot and family.
And then there are moments…yes, those times when His Presence in the room is much larger than the room itself! As He steps into the doorway, everything within us wants to fall prostrate before Him. Our shouts of joy are silenced by His eternal awe and beauty. Songs become mere melodies in the presence of His Glory. Even our breath responds to His Presence, becoming so “thick” we cannot speak, as He adds His breath to ours. The Eternal God, fellowshipping, communing, with man.
He rejoices with us! He sings and shouts with us! “The Lord your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zeph 3:17
He DESIRES to be with us. Whether we’re doing well, hurting, mad or happy. He desires to be in our presence; it’s been that way since the foundation of the world.
So, throw away any magic lamps, special charms, or anything else you feel you need to “conjure” up God’s Presence. You don’t have to talk Him into coming!
Simply worship Him.
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Persuaded? Think about it!
Persuade – to move by argument, entreaty, or expostulation to a belief, position, or course of action; to plead with : urge
Think about it.
Have you ever had anyone try to persuade you to believe like them, take sides with them, agree to stand with them?
You had to think about it, didn’t you? Maybe for only a moment, but a moment none-the-less.
In order for you to be persuaded, a process of thought is necessary. Within yourself. Regardless of how many others you confer with, you make the final decision whether or not you’re actually persuaded.
You may follow the crowd, the bias of society, a particular political party or pseudo-party (for all you tea-baggers out there), or whatever. You can be a follower without being persuaded.
I “follow” different Twitter accounts, but I don’t necessarily agree with them. I “follow” people when I’m driving on the road, but that’s not an indication I’m persuaded they are leading me where I want or need to go.
People “follow” while it’s convenient, easy, affordable, and popular. But when following becomes costly and unpopular, belief trumps ease. Understand this; belief is only part of being persuaded. Belief that has passed the test of argument, study of the facts, has considered the ramifications if something is truth or error…that belief morphs into “persuaded”.
Think about it.
Heaven is for people who are persuaded Jesus is the only way to eternal life! Like I said, belief tested becomes “persuaded”.
Paul said in Romans 8:38, “I am persuaded…nothing can separate me from His love.” He told Timothy, “I am persuaded He able to keep (guard) what I’ve committed to Him…” He wrote to the Corinthians, “knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” And King Agrippa responded to Paul’s testimony, “you almost persuade me…”
Abraham said to the rich man, “if people won’t believe what Moses said, they won’t be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.”
When Abraham was told by God he would become the father of a multitude, he “hoped against hope…and was FULLY persuaded what God had promised He was able to perform.”
Life itself requires you and I to be persuaded about many things.
Think about it.
Will you do yourself a favor? Think about what you believe. Why do you believe it? Have you REALLY investigated the claims you believe to be truth? Or, are you following an idea because your peers say it’s true? Because it’s what you’ve always believed? What has persuaded you? How much research and “arguing” of the facts have you done?
Have you allowed your beliefs to be challenged, tested? Are you scared to investigate God’s claims? What are you afraid of?
Think about it. And don’t quit thinking until you are persuaded.
Fully persuaded.
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An Open Letter To Worship Teams (part 2)
“Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass that the children of Israel asked the Lord, saying, “Who shall be first to go up for us against the Canaanites to fight against them?” And the Lord said, “Judah shall go up. Indeed I have delivered the land into his hand.” So Judah said to Simeon his brother, “Come up with me to my allotted territory, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I will likewise go with you to your allotted territory.” And Simeon went with him. Then Judah went up, and the Lord delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand; and they killed ten thousand men at Bezek. “Judges 1:1-4 NKJV
In the above passage of scripture, Judah was told to lead the battle against the Canaanites and the Perizzites. Most people understand the name, “Judah”, means “praise”. That’s one reason the idea of “praise” marching against the enemy is taught. But some people read this passage and believe God always sends His worship team into battle first. God has done such things a few times, but “few” doesn’t equal always.
The words Canaanite and Perizzite have meaning as well. Canaanite is “to humiliate” or “vanquish”. Perizzite means “open” or “unwalled”. In other words, “praise” was to go up against a formidable foe that had the reputation of humiliating and vanquishing all of their enemies. And if that wasn’t enough, the other half of the enemy combatants were so powerful they needed no walls of protection for their cities. They could defend their territory without anything but their ability to fight.
Worship can be, and is at times, used by the Lord to rout an enemy from a situation, a people group, a city, etc. An example can be seen in 2 Chronicles 20, in the story of King Jehoshaphat.
But for worship and praise to have Heaven’s Anointing upon it, it must have God’s Word, God’s direction, behind it.
If you are part of a worship team, you are in a critical, front line ministry. Notice I said worship team. I’m not talking about a group of singers and musicians who perform for their congregation during the “worship” part of a church service. I’m referring to a group of singers and musicians who, along with their leader, actually have their heart fixed on worshipping God, whether there’s music or not, whether the song is fast or slow. They worship God. And others follow their lead, right into Heaven’s Throne Room.
As I said, leading worship and ministering on a worship team is front line ministry. Worship, coupled with intercession (the two go hand in hand), has the ability to connect Heaven and Earth. God moves through the conduit of worship and touches those in need, those who are bound by afflictions or addictions, and brings deliverance. But one of the things a worship team must understand is, the Lord doesn’t necessarily use a packaged or planned worship set like we’d believe; for there’s nothing magical, or spiritual, about an arrangement of songs.
I keep track of worship “sets” I use. I do that for three reasons. One, in case someone would ask about a certain song used on a particular day or service. Two, to file a report with CCLI regarding song usage. And three, for my own reference in planning future worship times. These “sets” have been blessed by God, at times, to “bring Heaven down”. People have received from the Lord marvelously as our worship team sang and played the worship set.
However what worked before doesn’t guarantee future victories. Repeating a worship set doesn’t mean the automatic rerun of a previous “gully washer.”
Judah had an idea. I believe it was an idea we as worshippers need to adapt. Judah (praise) said to brother Simeon, “will you please help me?” Simeon means “hearing”. The picture behind the word isn’t just the physical act of hearing. It means “to hear with the intent of obeying”.
So “praise” said to “hearing, with the intent of obeying”, “please help me defeat these enemies who have the ability and the reputation of defeating all who rise against them.” “Hearing” agreed, and TOGETHER they cleared their land of the enemy.
When we as worship team members and leaders stand in front of a congregation, singing songs should be one of the last things we’re concerned with. Singing praises alone doesn’t automatically open windows for victory. We must keep our heart and mind sensitive to God’s voice, and to the leader’s heart (and the pastor’s).
When we unite praise and obedience to God’s voice we will see God’s Kingdom come and His will done in our world.
When I “plan” the songs for worship, I try and sense the Lord’s desire for the gathering. I’ll pick the songs, the keys, arrange the order, and submit the finished set to the pastor or sound personnel. But the songs aren’t set in stone. We may do some, all, or none of them.
What we will do, with the Spirit’s help, is join Judah and Simeon together – praising, listening, and obeying God.
THAT is when the enemy is routed and people are set free. THAT is when Heaven touches Earth. THAT is when Jesus is glorified!
It’s great to prepare worship sets. It’s great to practice vocal parts, instrumentals, tags, etc. It’s important to rehearse and “perform” the best we can.
But when it’s time to worship, don’t forget to listen to the Chief Musician’s heart. He just may have something other than singing planned.
There may be a Canaanite or Perrizite to drive out.
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The Correct Tool For The Job
I used to work on cars. My cars. I would do such things as change oil, plugs and points, wires, antifreeze; simple things like that. I have also changed a transmission, rear leaf springs, u-joints, drive shafts, front struts, brakes, hoses, heater cores, and such.
Besides learning I didn’t want to be a mechanic for hire, I learned:
a) I didn’t know everything about automobiles, though I did know quite a bit
b) I didn’t have all the necessary tools to work on everything
c) I would be better off if I asked someone who had the knowledge and proper
tools to do the job, even if it cost more money.I remember changing the struts on my 1978 Plymouth Horizon. I didn’t have the money to pay someone to do the work, so I purchased the parts, rented a couple of spring compressors, and began the task of changing them in the carport of our apartment. I had a service manual to use, but even with the manual I was pretty much at a loss. I finally finished the job, with no parts left over, but I had wasted so much time. Then, a short while later I mentioned to a mechanic friend what I had done. He told me that was one of the stupidest and dangerous things I could have attempted. “Trained mechanics with the proper tools and training have been seriously injured while compressing the strut springs”, he said.
Tools…
…things (as an instrument or apparatus) used in performing an operation or necessary in the practice of a vocation or profession.
Knowledge…
…the fact or condition of knowing something with familiarity gained through experience or association; acquaintance with or understanding of a science, art, or technique.
Using the correct tool, and using it correctly, isn’t only important for mechanics. Knowledge of a tool, familiarization and proficiency gained through experience using a tool, is extremely important to God’s work, as well.
How many mechanics possess all knowledge and ability for each and every problem? Even the most experienced mechanic can get stumped at times. There are situations that demand the mechanic bring in someone who may specialize in a certain area. Someone with the tools and experience to assess the situation and fix the problem.
So it is in the Body of Christ, the Church.
I remember thinking, as a young pastor who loved to preach and teach, God has given me as a gift to my congregation. He has equipped me to teach and train the saints, win the lost, impart anointing, heal the sick, and leap tall buildings in a single bound.
I had guest speakers from time to time, but mainly to give myself a break, or stir up some excitement by bringing in a bigger named preacher than I. Of course, it was important to advertise, so any non-attached saints could find another church to try out.
Just recently, maybe the last 10 years or so, did I realize that all the gifts, tools, special anointings God has placed in the Body of Christ are needed for the complete maturation of the saints. (Ephesians 4:11-16)
There are a few instances from the Book of Acts I would like to share with you, in dealing with this subject.
1) In Acts 8, Phillip had traveled to the city of Samaria, preaching Jesus. What a powerful outpouring of God’s Spirit! Many people were saved, healed and delivered as a new church was planted. But when the apostles in Jerusalem heard about the outpouring, they sent Peter and John to them. Why? Not to sign papers of incorporation, but to pray and lay hands on the saints to be filled with the Spirit of God! Anyone can lay hands on another person, but God has anointed and gifted certain ones in the Body with certain “tools of the trade.” And because of the “special mechanic’s ministry”, people were filled with the Spirit and God’s word multiplied!
2) Acts 9 is another example of a “specialist’s” ministry. Dorcas had died, but the saints heard Peter was staying over in a town close by. So they called for him, asking him to come and raise the woman from the dead! Again, the pastor, deacon, women’s ministries president; these all could have prayed and believed God (and probably did). But they recognized God had equipped some with certain things, like the gift of faith, that should be utilized and not ignored.
3) Barnabas was sent by the Jerusalem church to assist with the foundational work in establishing the church in Antioch. Again, there were others in Jerusalem who could have used some of their vacation time for a short term missionary assignment. But Barnabas was anointed and equipped to minister to that group at that time.
4) Acts 21 tells of Phillip again, only by this time he had 4 daughters who prophesied. Paul and his minister friends stopped off to visit with Phillip for awhile. During their visit, The Lord sent Agabus, the prophet, to minister specifically to Paul. Why didn’t The Lord use the tools already in the house? Because He needed a specific tool for a specific task.
Years ago, it was common for pastors to schedule “special” meetings. Several meetings, even meetings that lasted for weeks, would be scheduled each year. The Lord would speak to the pastor about the need for a special work to be done in the church, so the pastor would follow His leading and “call” someone with the experience and the tools to meet the need. God would set up the opportunity to further equip His people.
Yes, the economy has changed and it’s harder to pay the bills.
Yes, with only one service a week, there isn’t the opportunity to have “specialists” come in.
Yes, the congregation needs to hear the lead pastor.
Yes, people aren’t interested in extended meetings any longer.
Yes, people are too busy, or too distracted, or…
Yes, yes, yes.
But maybe the issue with our people isn’t just their business. Maybe we, as leaders, have given in to the pressure of our society. Maybe we don’t really believe our congregation wants to grow in the Lord. Maybe we expect God to work His miracles, train the saints, win the lost, heal the sick, and call people into ministry using the schedule and format we give Him. Maybe we don’t trust our people to give to another’s ministry, or we’re jealous when they do?
I really believe the church is fast approaching its finest, yet most difficult hour. It’s imperative we keep an open ear to God’s heart and His word. The church of Jesus Christ needs all the gifts, anointings, and impartations the Lord has planned and prepared for it. Without them…
…it’s like trying to change struts in a carport.
Jan Grace
adding God's Word into my world…
