Know Your Adversary!
Help us to remain "alert" to the schemes and plans of the "adversary"! It is important to say that we here at TCS do not view the "adversary" as the people themselves but as the "deceiver" that has captured the minds and hearts of the people. Please e-mail your stories and information to Manager@TidewaterCrossSection.com!
The 5 Keys To Discernment
By Andrew Strom
December 2, 2008 - Some people say that knowing Scripture is the only real key to discernment that we need. And yes - Scripture is very important - especially in exposing false doctrine. But it is not only doctrines or teachings that are the greatest danger today. It is just as likely to be false 'anointings' or spirits - perhaps even "lying signs and wonders". And we may need more than just a good understanding of Scripture to spot these things. Remember, a lot of the people caught up in the "manifestations mania" that we described in the last chapter actually know their Bible quite well. And yet they could still be deceived. So what are the things that can help us avoid deception in similar situations?
Some of the most basic keys to discernment that God has shown me are as follows:
(1) Know your HOLY GOD intimately. (When you have seen His glory, His holiness and His love - by drawing close to Him in prayer - then you can usually see through any counterfeits because you know the "real thing" so well).
(2) Know your Bible. It is very important to be able to spot teachings that are either extra-biblical or directly opposed to what the Scriptures teach. However, it is important to remember that the Scribes and Pharisees were extremely learned in the Scriptures and yet they missed the very Messiah that was prophesied! So knowing the Bible is important - especially for doctrinal issues - but we need to be able to "discern the spirits" also.
(3) Be a "lover of truth". This is very crucial. Are you someone who will actually stand up for Truth - even against the crowd? Or do you remain silent even when you are convinced something is very wrong?
(4) Purity of heart and Humility. Many deceptions only appeal to us because there is something inside us that "wants" to believe them. They are seductive because of darkness and wrong motives in our own lives. We must search our hearts and root these out.
(5) The 'inner witness' of the Holy Spirit. We must learn to never over-ride this "still small voice", as it will save us from deception again and again. (More on this below).
Did you know that even an unbeliever can often spot a con-man or a snake-oil salesman? They get a kind-of "gut feeling" about such things. And they are often right! In fact, they are often less gullible than the Christians! (Because we are told in the church- "Do not judge", 'Touch not the Lord's anointed', "You have a critical spirit if you do not join in", etc, etc. This is the very reason why Christians are often the most gullible and easily deceived). We need to realize that the Bible says to "test the spirits" and warns very strongly that the Last Days will be a time of "seducing spirits" and great deception. So how can we become more alert to these things?
I believe that God has placed within every human being at least a measure of an inner "warning system" to protect us from being easily deceived - just as He has given us all a conscience. It is something that He has built into every one of us, in His mercy. (I guess a lot of it is simply 'common sense'). However, Christians should have an even greater advantage in this area, because we have the "inner witness" of the Holy Spirit, and the 'still small voice' of the Lord speaking to us every day.
But what I have found again and again with people who give themselves over to some form of deception is that they often "override" these inner alarms. They go against their 'better judgment'. They ignore the little voice deep inside them that is telling them that there is something wrong. Christians today do this all the time. That is how they get themselves involved in such foolish deceptions.
This may all sound very obvious, but I am telling you, this one basic area alone could wipe out half the deception in the church right now. If only people would listen to these internal 'alarm bells' and act with common sense, half of it would be gone overnight.
The Bible is very clear that the Last Days are a time of such widespread deception that it would "deceive if possible the very elect". It also shows that much of this deception will arise from WITHIN the church - luring believers who have "itching ears". Do we see evidence of this kind of thing taking place today? Absolutely! In fact, some of it is at a level that is truly shocking. And yet it is all accepted as perfectly "normal" by many Christians.
One of the problems, of course, is that those who bring in these deceptions are 'trusted' by the congregation. They have a reputation and they put across some very convincing-sounding arguments and surround the whole thing with Biblical terminology. And thus the deception is harder to spot. (After all, if it were not "deceptive" then it would not be called 'deception'!) People see spiritual power operating and assume that it "must be God". But this is a very dangerous assumption to make in these days.
As I said in a previous chapter, there is also a lot of "peer pressure" involved as well. For if everyone in the church is getting into something, then shouldn't you just ignore those little 'alarm bells' and jump right in? This is what is happening all the time in the church right now. And some preachers are very good at making people feel that they are 'hindering the Spirit' if they do not get involved.
So how do you avoid being deceived in this way?
Very simply, you do not go along to these meetings in a "gullible" frame of mind. And you do not allow yourself to be carried along with the crowd. You listen carefully to the preaching and make sure that it truly is Biblical. Then you watch the ministry happening down the front of the meeting and discern whether it really is of God or not. You do not "override" any feelings of unease or any 'alarm bells' going off inside you. And you do not allow yourself to be swayed by 'peer pressure'. Even if the whole church is getting into something, it does not mean that you have to. If you do not feel quite "right" about it then DO NOT GET INVOLVED. If you need to, make some excuse and get out of there! You do not have to get involved in things that do not feel spiritually "right" to you.
A lot of people today will go to the front to get something "imparted" to them by almost every visiting speaker - almost as a matter of course. I tell you, in today's climate this can be a very dangerous thing to do. In fact, some of this 'impartation' business has very flimsy backing in Scripture. Who knows what on earth these preachers are imparting? And who knows where they picked it up? I tell you, deceiving spirits are commonplace today, and I believe they are being imparted to Christians on a large scale.
Let me give you an example. I received the following account from a preacher in England not too long ago: "There were about 20 fellow ministers all gathered together in one large room at a local minister's house. We were introduced to the special guest... The next 3 hours were the weirdest three hours I have ever had to endure. We started listening to [her] testimony which seemed very powerful, next she spoke of the times that she meets with the Angel Gabriel and other spiritual beings, next we moved on to portals between this world and the next and then finally to how she was going to open up a portal to Heaven in the room that we were all in. Now things started to happen, really crazy things and strange noises... As [she] moved around the room ministering to individual people they were crashing to the ground, bouncing up and down, running around as if on fire and making all sorts of sounds. When she came to me she had no prophetic words for me and nothing happened to me so she just moved on. My Vineyard friend was the first to crash to the floor. Since that day his church has taken on a different guise, it is not the same church any more."
Now, you should know that this 'guest speaker' is a woman who is very high up in the Prophetic Movement - well known and highly regarded (except by people with discernment). This is typical of the kind of thing that happens in a lot of the more "powerful" prophetic meetings today. People are so desperate for a 'touch' or a spiritual experience that they will fall for anything. I myself have been in one of her meetings and what I saw was people making involuntary "bat"-like movements all over the building and an eery 'wailing' noise filling the air. It was truly awful.
Now, it should not surprise us that there are strong deceptions or "powerful delusions" around today, for this is exactly what the Scriptures predict will happen. All the way through the New Testament we are warned of these days - over and over again.
However, one of the problems we have is that God actually does 'strange and unusual' things Himself. (Especially in Revivals). So we cannot simply throw out everything unusual. Just think about the Book of Acts for a moment. Not only are there healings and miracles and demons being cast out right through the whole book, but there are also occasionally angels appearing with instructions from the Lord, and an abundance of dreams, visions and prophecies, etc. So we see that God is definitely a SUPERNATURAL GOD. He does "unusual" things. Angelic visitations DO HAPPEN. Prophetic signs DO OCCUR. But please notice that all of these things have a certain holy "character" about them. And that is the key right there. They have a holy character, because they come from a holy God.
Being a strong Pentecostal-type Christian myself, I expect to see believers speaking in tongues and moving in the gifts of the Holy Spirit - just like in the New Testament. But as I stated earlier, God never goes against His own holy character. Or against Scripture. And as I often say, we may see Him do 'unusual' things but I believe we need to draw the line at "weird" or ugly. Some of the deception that is around right now has a 'touchy-feely' New Age sense about it. Remember that the New Age movement majors on "inner healing" and unusual spiritual experiences. I do not believe in 'guided visualisation' or anything of that kind. And neither am I very fond of the writings of Catholic mystics or the like.
However, I have personally found it very helpful to immerse myself in the writings of past Revivalists and the accounts of great moves of God. A lot of the men and women involved in these Revivals lived very close to God and knew Him intimately. They knew His holiness, they knew His glory, and they knew His love. And it is enormously helpful to one's discernment to immerse oneself in these writings, I have found. I would recommend this to all Christians everywhere.
If you have been touched or involved in any way with manifestations or experiences that you think may not have been from God, then I urge you to utterly RENOUNCE (with your mouth, but also from the depths of your very being in Jesus' name) any links or involvement with that experience or 'anointing'. Please do not put this off, my friends. Some of this stuff is extremely dangerous. RENOUNCE it today.
I hope this article has been of some practical help.
God bless you all!
Kindest regards in Christ,
Andrew Strom.
Defeating the Darkness of the World
By Shaila D Touchton
Sept 30, 2008 - On the eastern side of Lake Galilee there is a place of caves and graves. There, Jesus met a man called "Legion." He was so named because "many" evil spirits lived in him. He kept crying out and cutting his naked body. The demons in him recognized and feared Jesus. They made the man shout, "What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You, don't torture me!" (Luke 8:28). Jesus ordered the demons to come out of the man. The demons obeyed at once. The local people were amazed when they saw the man called Legion "sitting at Jesus' feet, dressed and in his right mind" (Luke 8:35).
Jesus met many others who had demons. He always had mercy on them. He always healed them and forced the spirits to leave them. All the people were amazed and said to each other, "What is this teaching? With authority and power He gives orders to evil spirits and they come out!" (Luke 4:36). Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him (Acts 10:38). Jesus shared with His followers the power to defeat Satan. He proved this by giving to those with Him power for miracles and casting out demons (Matthew 10:1; Luke 10:19; Mark 16:17). They too had the same success. (The disciples had only one failure, as recorded in Matthew 17:14-21. That was because of their own lack of faith. After that lesson, every other attempt at working miracles was successful.)When the seventy disciples came back from their preaching journeys, they joyfully said to Jesus, "'Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.' He replied, 'I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven'" (Luke 10:17-18). Now no force can control God's people against their will. Nothing can separate us from God's love (Romans 8:38-39).
Christians continue to win their struggles against "the powers of this dark world." They do this by using the mighty strength of Jesus. "...This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God" (1 John 5:4-5). "Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power...Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one" (Ephesians 6:10,16).
Article Source: Narrow is the Path
The Visual Generation – The Death of Discernment
By Rev Michael Bresciani
July 29, 2008 - In America it is mindless, Godless and feckless TV programming, You Tube and Hollywood’s latest offering of films that pour images on an entire generation. The result is exactly the same as it was in China but on a much larger scale and with so much more to lose.
If you asked anyone who is considering voting for Barack Obama or any liberal why they chose that candidate, the answer you will most likely hear is, “I like him.” or “he looks good to me.”
If he, she or it looks good that’s good enough for the “media generation.” No discernment needed, wisdom is too hard to acquire and who has more than a few seconds of time in this world of screen shots, blips and spot messages to look any deeper. A new language and a new media has developed that thrives on abbreviated communications; OMG could I be talking about texting?
People who read entire books and articles to learn something or to see an authors point are becoming rare. Just getting to this sentence means you probably are one of those people. You may have read some Hemingway, Joyce, even Shakespeare or at the very least the morning paper. You may be one of the rare breed of people that actually forms opinions and conclusions based on a careful weighing of all the facts.
In the Bible (1 Cor 12:10) there is mention of a “spiritual gift” known as “discerning of spirits.” Unfortunately that gift is often placed in a list of charismatic type gifts that end up being thought of as something only practiced by a few Pentecostal people. In fact the language of 1:Cor 12:10 connotes the idea of a “judging through” of any and all matters not a fleeting spiritual thought dropping out of the ether.
Discerning of spirits is a God given enterprise that does not work unless God is brought into the equation. He unveils, reveals or shows the deepest meaning of things to the deepest people. They are a peculiar people who weigh everything and refuse to make prejudiced and extraneous judgments based only on what they see or have heard from the grape vine, the media or God knows where!
It is the rarity of such people that serves as only one of a few reasons that can be found for the wholesale blindness that seems to be accompanying the decisions made by the American public about their presidential candidates.
The biblically based reason is far more obvious and it reads like this, “In whom the god of this world (Satan) hath blinded the minds of them which believe not” (2 Cor 4:4a) It is what allows people to assent to what late night talk show hosts say about candidates instead of listening to the candidates themselves and comparing that to all that has gone before. It is almost perverse, because it is a “spirit” that drives the average person to use no “spiritual” discernment at all.
It is what causes thousands to think Rick Warren is actually helping the American public to choose a better candidate by bringing John McCain and Barack Obama to “Saddleback” so they can smooth out their differences. The program or show (side show) is partly sponsored by Meg Riley who formerly headed up her denomination’s homosexual advocacy office. It raises the serious question of whose purpose is the author of “The Purpose Driven Life” fulfilling? It’s a show, a visual, and a media attraction with or without knowing exactly what is really driving Rick Warren’s purpose. What Evangelist Bill Keller told his over two million subscribers on his daily devotional July 26, 2008, was that Warrens sideshow is a “load of garbage.”
Has Keller crossed the sacred PC line and sinned against society? No, what he has really done is used God given discernment based on sound scriptural teachings and mustered the guts to say it out loud to a You Tube generation that would rather watch hours of delightful nonsense and tripe rather than discern anything that matters. Kudos to Bill Keller, shame on Rick Warren!
Sadly, what is really happening is what the Apostle James and other biblical authors predicted would become commonplace as we approach the second coming of Christ. James said,”Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?” (James 2:4) King James Version or not this is exactly the meaning of “choosing between the lesser of two evils.” Not much discernment needed to know what that means. This is America today.
The greatest loss from the abandoning of discernment is that America has lost the connection. We are no longer able to discern the “connection” between our morality and all the other issues. The truth is that the economy, our security, and all the other matters of our national life depend on and are inextricably linked to our morality. We have mistakenly allocated morality to an aspect of our religious life and have thereby disconnected it from our own larger national welfare and security.
Political candidates, the news media and pundits rant about the economy, the war, taxes, crime and all the so called “critical issues” while ignoring the gross immorality of homosexuality, abortion, media filth, evolutionary dogma that passes itself of as academic freedom and general sensory driven visual tripe from Hollywood and similar sources. Morality is relegated to the churches and a few PC deficient fundamentalist Bible thumping diehards who just won’t seem to go away.
The result of all this distraction derived from the lack of discernment is in a word: judgment. But is it inevitable? Does the sun Rise? Does the sun set? It is God’s judgment that follows the refusal to use our own better judgment.
Using judgment is not a luxury that is reserved for a few and can be ignored by all others. In fact it is a biblical imperative that if ignored will have an immediate and devastating effect on everyone in our nation “The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.”(Isa 59:8)
The simplest rule for using good judgment turns out to be just the opposite of what is being done in America’s visual generation. Here it is; “Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.” Jesus, John 7:24.
If you have any discernment left and you must if you’ve gotten this far into this article then let me suggest that you pray for America to once again make decisions based on sound wisdom and spiritual discernment.
About the Author: Rev Bresciani is an author and columnist for several online and print publications. With over two million readers worldwide and growing you will enjoy the articles, movie reviews, commentary and much more visit www.americanprophet.org.
Source: Christian Article Bank
Keep Yourselves from Idols!
By Dr. Michael Halleen
Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.(1 John 5:21)
July 11, 2008 - The Apostle John had already closed his sermon to the church in Ephesus. He had spoken to them about loving God by obeying God’s commandments, summed up in the requirement to love (act kindly and truthfully toward) one another. Do not claim to love God if you refuse to love other people, he had said. The sermon had been clear, direct and consistent. Belief in God means to love God; to love God means to obey God; to obey God means to love other people.
Then came the benediction, warm and reassuring as blessings ought to be. “Remember,” he announced (and I paraphrase), “that you have been set free from sin! Remember too that we are on the side of God in the struggle against evil! And remember always, the life of God himself, eternal life, has become a reality for you!” (1 John 5:18-20)
It was time to go home for dinner. John put down the microphone and started to take off his preaching robe. As he turned toward the open door, he caught sight of the magnificent Temple of Diana, bustling with activity, just across the city square from the gathering place of his little church. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the temple was a center of immorality, idolatry, sorcery—everything opposed to the life in Christ which he preached. “Wait!” John called to his people. “Wait! I have one more thing I must say!”
My mother was sitting in the passenger seat of our family car one Sunday as we drove home from church. In the midst of conversation about Sunday school lessons, she turned and pointed to Bunny’s Tavern, a drinking establishment that we passed near our house. With an intensity in her voice that we took as ultimate authority, she warned, “That place! Don’t ever go in there!”
I like to imagine John showing the same urgency as he pointed to the Temple of Diana. “If you understood nothing else of what I said today, my dear children, at least remember this. Stay away from that! If you were unable to follow my well-structured sermon, at least take this with you: there are things in this world—ideas, habits, places—that are not for you. They will only mean danger! Keep yourselves from idols!”
With all our careful thought and many words concerning the faith, sometimes there is need for a simple alarm. Where there is anything that would take the place of God—or point you away from God—don’t go there! Just stay away.
Dr. Michael A. Halleen writes very insightful and inspirational messages known as "Monday Moments". If you would like to recieve these messages please contact Mike at mhalleen@att.net.
Allowing God to Minister In Your Life!
By Stan and Elizabeth Madrak
June 25, 2008 - Faith always believes in change. Satan desires to trap us. We should desire to be sifted like wheat and let God shake everything that is not of HIM out of us. We are in the signs of the times and we are seeing more and more people being trapped by the devil. Hebrews 12:27 says we are in the signs of the times as in Luke 21st Chapter. Licentiousness and laziness are not God's idea. We need to arise up bigger than our problems and not walk about in fear. Fear begins with negativism. God never does anything in our life except help us to grow! It is time to kick against the rocks in our path and get those rough spots out of our lives.
We have the robes of righteousness on our back and we can walk victoriously in JESUS! God did not put the word "defeat" in front of our path. Give God Praise for the Praise He has made in your life. But begin to focus your thoughts, your heart, and your very being on the victories in this year. I believe that this year will be one of the greatest years in your life. Do not let the enemy try to intimidate you but WIN in JESUS!
Satan only works through your five senses and affects your emotions which has the biggest effect on your life. If you learn not to walk by your five senses then you can overcome these areas that have been and are being shaken. Remember the Spirit is first and then the physical. The only areas that Satan will attack you in is your physical, emotions and financially.
We must begin to separate ourselves from old life styles and learn to Overcome. God has given us power over the enemy! Every evil spirit, every dumb spirit, every infirmity, every spirit of divination, every perverse spirit and spiritual blindness must fall by the wayside. Everything not of God must be shaken out of us! If we are going to walk victoriously in this year, we have to believe that we can overcome.
Colossians 3:8 refers to the old way or the old man. We must put away anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language, and lies so as not to fall into those traps or fall into unrestrained spiritual hypocrisy. [DELIVERANCE is needed here.]
Unclean spirits give us unclean thoughts and actions. According to Mark 7:25 I believe the devil comes in at a very early age. Do not turn your back on the devil. Be wise and look at the situation. Do not be afraid to face your problems. You are made to be more than a conqueror and an overcomer. In JESUS we WIN!
Let this year be your year of victory. We want to encourage you that no matter what you have been facing, your God is bigger than any problem. HE has made us to overcome every unclean spirit!
About the Authors: Stan and Elizabeth Madrak are cofounders of the End-Times Deliverance Ministry in Crystal Springs, Mississippi. They also have one of the most popular and educational websites supporting demonic deliverance and it’s applicable ministries on the web today! For more information about Stan and Elizabeth or to find out more about their ministry, go to DemonBuster.com.
What Christians Should Know About Popular Meditation Techniques
By Hanna Henderson
June 12, 2008 - Various forms of meditation techniques are being widely and fervently promoted as a way of attaining peace, promoting relaxation, and developing a higher consciousness. However, many people, Christians and non-Christians, who take up these techniques of meditation do not realize the strong biblical warnings against such practices.
Although the forms of modern meditation vary, they all share a central goal--the blanking out and emptying of the practitioner's mind. What is the danger of totally clearing one's mind? First, it should be understood that an empty mind is prime territory to be filled with ideas, thoughts, suggestions, sounds, and imaginations. Essentially, a blanked out mind is much like a dry sponge which absorbs practically any liquid with which it comes into contact. The cleared mind corresponds to the dry sponge, and thoughts, imaginations, ideas, suggestions, and sounds, correspond to the liquid. This truth is evident in the fact that very young children whose minds have not had the opportunity to completely learn a language, learn foreign languages effortlessly. Why? Because there's no other language or sound pattern present to buffer the incoming language and sounds. As the child grows older, his ability to learn language in the same way as he did or could have at a very tender age, departs forever. Again, this is why children are impressionable and why brainwashing is extremely difficult to reverse if it has taken place in a child before reaching the age of four.
When an adult masters the "art" of meditation to the point of totally clearing his mind, his psyche becomes even more impressionable than that of a baby! The difference is that this blanking out of the mind has been achieved unnaturally and carries consequences.
Whenever the Bible speaks of meditation, it always consists of active thought, of filling the mind with the knowledge of God's law, not blanking it out. In fact, warnings are made against failure to guard against an idle mind. Psalm 1:2 says, "his delight is the law of the Lord and in his law doth he meditate day and night." Joshua 1:8 records, "this book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but, thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein." Finally, in Psalm 119:97, king David worshiped God saying, "o how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day."
Should such biblical references be used to form a doctrine regarding meditation techniques? Is biblical instruction really valid for today's world? These questions have been anticipated and answered by the all wise God whose word teaches that, "all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). Man is also reminded that, "the word of the Lord endureth forever..."(1 Peter 1:25).
Meditating to blank out one's mind gives nothing but a false and temporary peace because it is a "peace" obtained through the breaking of God's instruction to, "be sober (have an alert mind), be vigilant (on the watch), because your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8).
About the Author: Hannah Henderson is one of the writers for Heavenly Manna. The paranormal, mysteries of the Bible, and successful Christian living in a turbulent world are just a few of the topics dealt with by the ministry. © 2007-2008 Heavenly Manna and Hannah Henderson
Source: http://www.articles.narrowisthepath.com
The Words That Will Fight All Your Spiritual Battles
by Ann Stewart
May 15, 2008 - With the Lord there is total protection for whatever you’re facing. No matter what battles you’re going through, whether physical, emotional or spiritual, the Lord has equipped you.
With God the battles are fought in the spirit realm. Words, thoughts and situations can condemn you. Have you ever felt a heaviness that you just can’t seem to shake? Words spoken against you or evil thoughts directed at you play a big part in your wellbeing. Do you sometimes feel heavily burdened for no reason to the point that you cannot shake the gloomy feeling?
It could very well be that you are being unwittingly judged by someone who has hard feelings towards you and may even be making judgmental comments to others about you. Or… maybe you’re upset about something you have said or done that you’re not proud of. Your very own words and thoughts could be condemning you!
Your greatest weapon is your faith. It is your shield to “quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” (Eph. 6: 16) It is God’s power to come against any adversary. Do you keep in constant contact with your Lord and Savior? It’s in that secret place and time where you spend time with Him that you feel His loving arms protecting you. That’s where you hear Him reassure you and you will experience total trust. In that intimacy you will be emboldened to say with conviction that indeed He is your refuge and your fortress and that surely, positively, absolutely He will delivery you! (Ps. 91: 1 - 3)
Except for the quiet time when you’re listening to the Lord, all prayer is spoken – out loud. Whether a whisper or a cry, words are powerful. God is the only One who reads your thoughts. The devil cannot! But demons stand at the ready and as soon as you speak negative thoughts about others or yourself, they will then fuel your mind with negative, sad or vindictive thoughts. It is important that you recognize these tactics and that you replace any such thoughts with God’s Word on the subject as soon as possible.
How do you do that? Well, in your quiet time with the Lord, He will always affirm you and talk to you through His Word. He will give you a scripture verse that is right on for your particular situation at any given day. Speak it, or any other appropriate verse, over your situation. For instance, take this verse:
“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” (Isa. 54: 17)
Declare in faith that God says that no weapon formed against you shall prosper and that no tongue shall condemn you! Just keep on declaring that you are God’s child and, no matter how you feel about yourself, if God says you are righteous, then so are you! Your righteousness is Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. Nobody is righteous in their own right; we are all sinners.
God’s righteousness means that you are bought with, and are covered by, His precious Blood. As His child, you need only go in confidence to your Daddy and confess as soon as you are made aware of any digression. He is faithful to forgive and He will remember your sin no more. (John 1: 9)
Therefore, be encouraged. Don’t feel condemned! You have the power of heaven on your side. By the same token, recognize yourself the same way that Jesus sees you. You are righteous and He loves you! Tell yourself that you are His anointed. Yes, you need to hear it! Stop when you hear derogatory declarations coming out of your own mouth about yourself, like: “I’m stupid,” I can’t do this,” or “I deserve to feel bad.”
When you do that, you’re not doing it so much for your own self esteem and wellbeing. By declaring God’s Word, and standing in faith that His Word is Truth, you are giving Him the Glory! He is pleased to see His children walk in power and freedom! That’s His purpose for you.
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Rom. 8: 1)
About the Author: Ann Stewart, author of With Wings As Eagles, has been there and done that! Come see how she learned how to attract God's favor and receive her miracle: With Wings as Eagles. There is no greater gift than HOPE! Subscribe here to her inspirational newsletter: Embracing All the Promises of God.
Scripture Memory Essential for Spiritual Warfare
by J. Wayne Veal
May 8, 2008 - There is a record of a great spiritual battle that was won only with words. Not angry words, not hateful or spiteful words. These were words that had been written centuries before this great incident. These were powerful words, words that carried authority, words that when used properly, at just the right time, became very effective weapons.
Of course, I’m speaking of the response to Satan by Jesus during the time of his temptation (Matthew ch. 4 and Luke ch. 4). On this occasion the body of Jesus was weak from extended fasting. The pressure of Satan was fierce, but the words that Jesus used were more than adequate for anything that Satan could use against Him. That is because the words that he chose were the inspired words of God. “ The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds..”
2 Corinthians 10:4 KJV .
Every army maintains an adequate arsenal of weapons to be used in the event of an ensuing battle. These armies, if they are wise, never stop stockpiling weapons for future need. If that is true then, and we have spiritual weapons at our disposal, is it not necessary to be continuously stocking our arsenal? One way that we can do this is through disciplined memorizing of the Word of God.
Since we know that the Word of God is a powerful weapon against spiritual forces, why then aren’t people memorizing more of scripture. I know that spiritually cold, careless Christians who seldom even read the bible certainly are not interested in memorizing scripture. But I’m talking about individuals who are interested and would like to be able to recall more of the Bible. Could it be that most people find memorization really difficult? I am a minister of the Gospel with more than thirty years experience and I can promise you scripture memory is a difficult process.
The greatest problem that I find with memorizing scripture is that most people only know the old ROTE memory method. That is hard, boring, and not very effective. While some repetition is certainly necessary, there are very effective methods that can be used to help in the retention and recall of scripture.
Many years ago, realizing that my ability to retain and recall scripture was poor at best, I set out on a quest to find methods for reinforcing my memory ability. What I found was that there is quite a lot of information on how the memory works and how to improve it. Much of what I learned has helped me tremendously. Over the years I have learned to effectively use my God given abilities like visualization, imagination, classification, organization, and association to help in the recall of God’s word.
The use of word chains and imagination have helped me to memorize complete chapters and passages with greater ease. The use of a special alphanumeric code system has made it possible to recall the exact reference of passages. I was even able to develop a system using this type of code to help me to remember all the events in chapters in the life of Jesus. It is like memorizing the harmony of the gospels.
By using the proper techniques to store scripture in my memory I have found a great source of pleasure in memorization . In my work as a pulpit preacher, the ability to retain and recall scripture and scripture reference is a priceless ability. The word of God is alive and powerful and a comfort to anyone who will spend the time to memorize it.
If the recall of scripture is important to you, you can certainly find help in developing a powerful memory. “Ask and it shall be given you, seek, and ye shall find, knock, and it shall be opened unto you ”Matt. 7:7 KJV.
About the Author: J. Wayne Veal is a Pastor of 32 years, a seminar speaker, and author of the home study course, " Bible Instant Recall"
Newton's Third Law and the Death of Wisdom - Secularisms Sin is No Sin
by Rev Michael Bresciani
April 23, 2008 - Some call it karma while others use the more folksy phrase “what goes around, comes around” but by any other name it is still best summarized by the words of the Apostle Paul who said “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. (Gal 6:7)
The results of ignoring the laws of reciprocation are evident all around us but perhaps in our hurry up world no one has the time or the inclination to give it any serious thought. The Bible warns that ignoring the simple rule of sowing and reaping will be part and parcel of the undoing of any generation but especially the last generation. The X generation may seem at home in an omega world where life is fast and cheap but the worst aspect of the rule of sowing and reaping is that if repeatedly ignored it destroys the growing field; that field can be a person, a community, a nation or ultimately the entire world.
To say that secularism is creeping into every aspect of our lives would be an anachronism because the entire world is already dangerously close to total secularization at this moment. Even harder would be trying to get anyone to recognize or admit that it has happened. It didn’t happen overnight but permanent changes rarely do. Negative changes have a way of clandestinely and slowly creeping into our social acceptance.
In a remark made by high profile law professor Alan Dershowitz about the recent escapades of Governor Eliot Spitzer he said “in twenty years people may laugh when someone is accused of adultery or involvement in prostitution.” Don’t look now Mr. Dershowitz but Hollywood has been making movies about these things and making people laugh for the past twenty years.
The days when the Sheriff gave the gay guy cruising around town looking for young men twenty four hours to get out of town have changed but again; not overnight. On April 10, 2008 AP writer Nedra Pickler reported that presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama said that the “don’t ask don’t tell” policy of the Pentagon “...doesn’t make us more safe.”
Only a brief list of causes would be enough to see why the effects of secularism are inevitable. We say the preachers are a nuisance with calls to a higher morality because they have only the Bible to support their claims. Do the math. If the Bible is actually God’s word do they need anything else for support?
So what is the math? One blogger recently asked me that very question. I was tempted to ask if he had heard of two and two makes four but I thought he might be insulted. It is almost that simple! Let’s see.
Evolutionist say we are the offspring of lower forms most notably apes and monkeys. Few of them have noticed the growing science of creationism and the growing number of scientist that are offering proof to the contrary. But let’s stick to causes. Essentially if we did not come from God (not created) then we do not have to answer to God. Say hello to one of the most powerful lies of the twenty first century and say goodbye to any semblance of accountability.
Along come the psychiatrists who have started off in their discipline denying that man is tripartite (body, mind and spirit) and have had to warn, manipulate and pound away at the problem of guilt in their dealings with the human condition. The Bible says Christ has dealt with guilt once and for all but why should we accept something that simple and approachable. A deep, dark and complicated science with its own language and terms seems more trustworthy to minds that trust only other minds.
Modern psychology has become a mere study in second causes. Perhaps it’s the science of excuses! From Freud to Skinner the rap is the same; someone or something else is to blame. It’s our overbearing father or some oppressive authority figure but why not also offer absolution from responsibility due to traumatic childhood experiences of any kind. Transmutation of guilt is dealing with it; but not very honestly after all.
Sociology steps up next both as a science and a set of behavioral norms, mores and folkways that creep into the general psyche by means of “the common wisdom of the day.” If something is accepted as normal behavior and repeated enough in everyday conversation it is here to stay. No science, no investigation not even any serious thought needed.
A good example of sociological claptrap or common wisdom is the current acceptance of the notion that children should not be subjected to any form of corporeal punishment. Ignoring the Biblical admonition the states have been pushing for no spank laws very successfully in the last five years with California leading the pack.
It makes sense. If there is no sin why should anyone be punished at all? A firm rebuke, some counseling and a hearty helping of encouragement is all that is called for in today’s view. Now all that is left is crime and how to explain that. Geneticist are now flirting with the idea that it’s all in our genes and only those who are genetically predisposed to commit crime will actually become a criminals. Shouldn’t we all feel much safer now?
The secularist can envision a world where no one is punished for anything and cannot imagine a world where God holds us accountable for everything. The Apostle Paul must seem like a raving madman for saying “In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel. (Ro 2:16) The indignity of suggesting God holds individuals accountable gives way to horror when the promise of collective judgment is inferred.
Secularism cringes at the idea that God would use nature as in a hurricane or tornado, or our enemies to scourge us with terrorist attacks or outright warfare. The secular viewpoint has no difficulty ignoring about a dozen verses in Exodus that promise a blessing for heeding Gods commands and over fifty verses in the same passage that warn of the problems and calamities that will beset us if we ignore them. The idea that that punishing our kids is not necessary is something we expect God to take very seriously as well; or he can just pack up his stuff and hit the road.
This list has only touched a few of the causes that Newton’s third law would invoke but the list is very long in reality. Hollywood’s contribution to the third law would outstrip almost all other causes the least of which would be the wimping of the American male and the worship of the female physique by young males. A matriarchal society would be too authoritarian for Hollywood but a feminocracy is not.
Hollywood may have finally come to terms with the fact that it cannot completely remove faith in God from the American landscape so it does the next best thing. It renders God impotent by means of philosophical tripe, visually spectacular sense bombardment and mindless aggrandizement of celebrities who will gladly attest to God’s failures and their own successes.
It would take a thousand articles to describe the effects concomitant to all of this according to Newton’s third but a reasonable article has only about a thousand words. I think I’m already there. But why leave the reader hanging? Ripped right out of today’s headlines here are just a few of the results of ignoring the laws of reciprocation.
It is hard not to see that the occurrences of only the past week are surely the effects of the above list of causes. Included is some intense and dangerous physical activity with not much thought and no spirituality. Also included is behavior that may be more akin to that of monkeys coming from youngsters that obviously have never been spanked or punished in any way. The lack of accountability is conspicuously non existent.
In Florida six cheerleaders lured a classmate to a house where they beat her beyond recognition all the while they were videotaping the mauling which they intended to send to You Tube. In Georgia a group on nine third graders was charged with plotting the murder of their teacher. On late night TV a presidential candidate made a joke of telling an elaborate lie to everyone in America then went on to explain why she is the best choice to be our next president. Another presidential candidate refused to distance himself from a racist pastor while contritely confessing that the gay press may think he is not showing them “enough love.” (AP May 10, 2008 the Advocate)
Secularism has taken on an almost elite status in the minds of pseudo intellectuals but it lacks any promise of a hopeful outcome. If observed under the intensity of the laws of reciprocation including Newton’s third, such scrutiny would render it false and ludicrously stupid. No one, no philosophy and no amount of time can remove even the simplest tenants of the immutable laws of reciprocity. Its here to stay!
Godless secularism may seem like the birth of real intelligence but it is a false hope at the least and a wholesale perversion of the truth when compared to God’s word. The wisest man on earth with the exception of the Savior was the ancient King Solomon. He said “The fear (reverence) of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” (Proverbs 9:10)
One of the fastest and safest means to teach or to grasp Biblical theology is to view a theological premise in a converse fashion. Applying this principle to Solomon’s words would render Proverbs 9:10 something like this. “The lack of fear (reverence) for the Lord is the death of all wisdom”
About the Author: Rev Bresciani is an author and a columnist for several online and print publications. For movie reviews, religion news, Christianity, politics, current events and much more visit The Website for Insight at http://www.americanprophet.org.
The Mother Of All Conspiracies - Part I (of 3 Parts)
by Kenneth Uptegrove
April 9, 2008 - Satan is the “mother” of all conspiracies. Since he does not have a heaven or hell or hope or happiness to offer us, he also has no religion or truth to offer. So over the millennia he has spawned—or mothered—hundreds of counterfeit, conspiratorial religions and philosophical systems. He is a cunning tyrant whose whole existence is given over to hating, deceiving, and destroying us. The sole purpose of spawning these lies is to set in place his powerful one-world antichrist system.
The best way to hide the source and intent of the mother conspiracy (conspirator) is to spawn a dozen daughter conspiracies that (unwittingly and unknowingly) front for, or create a diversion for the mother conspiracy. The mother conspiracy can stay in the background, never showing her hand, but forever manipulating all her daughters. Even speaking of them as a mother and her daughters is deceptive. The truth is, these conspiracies are of their father—Satan (John 8:44).
These conspiracies are actually diverse groups that disagree with each other over many issues, but they have one thing in common. They have more unity and more oneness in the antichrist spirit than the Church presently does in the Spirit of Christ; and they have had it for a long time. They are united in one common purpose, one powerful force against Christ and the Kingdom of God.
Hear Ken talks about this article at length on a three hour talk show at www.arkhaven.org/prophetic_watchman.htm
The Scripture Reading For This Article
2 Timothy 3
1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
2 Peter 3
1 This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:
2 That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:
3 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,
4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.
5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:
Satan's Ultimate Goal
Satan's ultimate goal is to disrupt and destroy Christendom and all social, political, and economic systems on Earth by putting into place dozens of competing systems. Out of the resulting chaos, fear, and mistrust, he plans to set in place a one-world social, economic, and political system that collectively will become his one-world system. This antichrist system will be brilliant! It will work wonders! And a vast majority of the world’s people will welcome it—for a while. It will not prevail!
What I am about to show you comes out of my 2.5 years of training in church history, and as a computer professional since 1965.
Though there may exist different streams within the Church, as long as each stream leads to the same River, we are joined in purpose. However, the antichrist system has also infiltrated some areas of Christian thought. (The word "Antichrist" means "in place of Christ" more so than "against Christ.") Even though I am a social and fiscal conservative and of the "religious right," I have observed that some "radical right" thought, especially amongst some "conspiracy theory" proponents, have crossed that line.
What Will The One-World Religion Be?
Now, let’s go another direction for a minute.
The Bible speaks of a one-world religion that will deceive people of every religion on earth in the latter part of the last days. But I think this religion has ALWAYS been the world religion. What can that religion be?
It is highly improbable, and seemingly inconceivable that any existing religion (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Jewish or Christianity, etc.) could convert the whole world to its doctrine, but religions such as Islam would like to force all living humans into submission to their religion.
That will be the goal of this false religion, not to convert, but force us to need them in order to survive. How can that be done?
Most people of every religion on earth espouse one religion but live another, and the Bible identifies this religion as: The love of money, and the power it brings (to dominate and survive). In a word: Self.
Christians whose subliminal God is money shows that they can be seduced and drawn from God. Since the love of money is the world religion, God will cast down this false God, this idol of worship. Therefore it should not surprise us that a worldwide depression is imminent.
I think that Bill Clinton (when running for president) was a prophet to the antichrist system/religion when he said, “it is the economy, stupid!” I think the antichrist system is so subtle, so subversive, so wise, but so powerful —all at the same time— that very few are aware of it’s existence.
This religion has been around since Adam and Eve were kicked out of the Garden of Eden. A religion is anything you love, admire, and devote most of your attention to. Self-preservation —the survival instinct— is so basic to human nature that we don't think about it, or write about it, or preach sermons on it. That is why the one-world religion can be described as a subliminal, subconscious religion—the perfect conspiracy. We treasure, and are driven, by the gratuitous instinct to survive; and that can be defined as a subliminal, invisible religion.
Way too many Christians vote their pocketbook and for the power to dominate. Look at what is generally called Bible believing Christians. They appear to be zealous in their faith, yet way too many vote in diametric contradiction to the Word of God when they vote their pocketbook and forget that they are also voting for abortion, the homosexual agenda, anti-Americanism, and socialism (i.e., the most antichrist and liberal of political candidates).
"True individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence."
-- Franklin Delanor Roosevelt .
In other words, when we lose our economic security, we also lose our freedom, and are forced to survive any way we can.
I called Bill Clinton a prophet because his, “It’s the economy, stupid” prophecy was fulfilled. The nation believed him... and his subliminal, one-world religion message of self-preservation.
I think a world leader is coming who will exploit this self-preservation instinct and will bring this religion to its logical conclusion. And if possible, even some of the very elect will be deceived by this appeal to their pocketbook and personal security.
On the one hand this is a gloom and doom message, but on the other hand this is the age (the days just prior to the Second Coming) when the church will come forth in her greatest power, glory, and victory. More on that in a minute…
The Adolph Hitler Model
The cruel, demented leadership of Adolph Hitler probably directly resulted in more death and destruction than any other single individual in history. The name Hitler will forever be one of the most ugly scars on human history. However, even Churchill acknowledged that if Hitler had died in 1938, he would have been considered one of the greatest leaders of all time.
A 1000 Mark banknote, over-stamped in red with 1,000,000,000 (1 billion) mark, issued in Germany during the hyperinflation of 1923
When Hitler came to power, Germany was suffering under some of the worst economic and political conditions a nation has suffered during modern times. There was between fifty and seventy-five percent unemployment. The government was bankrupt, and the German Mark fell to an exchange rate of actually being worthless. Mobs ruled the streets, perversion was rampant, and the whole nation tottered on the brink of becoming a Soviet state.
In just four years, Hitler not only balanced the budget; he paid off the national debt while building the most powerful economy in the world. He brought employment to near one hundred percent. He restored Germany’s national dignity, and built the most powerful army in the world. He also drove pornography and other forms of perversion from the land. There has never been such a transformation of a country in the history of the world.
Most of the church in Germany was so fooled by Hitler that they helped establish his power base, with some church leaders actually calling him “a messiah.”
Are we doomed to keep repeating history because we fail to learn from history?
Why The World Will Accept The Antichrist System
2 Kings 17:33, "They feared the Lord, but served their own gods."
We have a nation where the overwhelming majority of the people declare the name of the Lord. Many even claim to be born again, and they actually may be, but the same ones give themselves to serving many other gods.
When it comes down to choosing between death and survival, the survival instinct in all of us will compel many to overrule our social, economic, political, and religious belief system. Most people will choose to survive at any cost. If possible, even professing believers may choose survival over death, perhaps for the sake of their children.
Look at the Joseph scenario. By the time the seven years of famine were over, ALL the people chose to sell themselves as slaves of Pharaoh for wheat to survive on. But fortunately, Joseph was benevolent.
The coming world dictator will seem to be a benevolent messiah, but will ultimately show himself to be a malevolent dictator. The book of Revelation describes him as a credible and charismatic leader when he first comes on the world scene. He will most likely be the head of a major religion and/or nation that has a long history of violence and intrigue…an almost forgotten history.
How might Satan accomplish this seemingly impossible goal of world domination?
A Massive World-Wide Depression Is Coming
(i.e., The Mother Of All Depressions)
If you had asked an Amish man during the last depression how he and the Amish community was fairing, he would have asked, “What depression?”
Many people lost everything during the last depression and some committed suicide, but others made a fortune. There is a way to not only survive and live well, but in past depressions you could actually make a fortune if you planned ahead properly.
During the last depression a lot of people who lived off the land (farmers), and had no debt, came through with very little loss. But the federal government and some banks were able to file foreclosure on millions of houses and acres of land. After the depression was over they were then able to rent, lease, or sell all these holdings and made a vast fortune off of them.
In recent years David Wilkerson has been warning us about this coming depression, and wrote two excellent books on the subject. They are titled:
· America's Last Call—On the Brink of a Financial Holocaust
· God’s Plan To Protect His People In The Coming Depression
Long before Wilkerson wrote those books I was teaching that a massive worldwide depression is coming. It could be so severe that there will be no paycheck for anyone, not even the military, police, or government officials.
To read what David Wilkerson & Jeanette Reed said about the coming depression go to http://www.arkhaven.org/christian-community.htm
In my lifetime, America has gone through a depression and several wars. Three of those wars were on this continent. And even as you read this message, millions of Christians in China and other nations are under terrible tribulation, persecution, and martyrdom this very day. In my lifetime around one million Christians have been martyred. To say another war or depression can't happen in America is not being realistic. But to say we should prepare for such an eventuality ... as best we can ... is realistic.
Consider this scenario. Let’s say that the foolishness of the world system causes a major depression that the Antichrist can take advantage of. But let’s say God complicates Satan’s plans and makes the depression much worse by bringing on several “natural disasters.” Look at the damage Katrina and Mt. St. Helen did to our economy.
Deadly flue epidemics, hurricanes, volcanoes, earthquakes, droughts, floods, tsunamis, terrorist attacks, and wars can cause an economic disaster. National debt and unemployment due to manufacturing going to other countries, or a combination of all the above could cause an economic collapse. Put the domino effect into play with enough dominos falling—tink-tink-tink—and we have the potential to bring down the world economy…the worst depression in history.
Under such conditions there would be little to no money for food or gas. Total anarchy can potentially reign in many areas for a few months until local (National Guard, Para-military groups?) leaders can bring order to their areas, and then begin to rebuild the nation. Millions could possibly die pitiful deaths in the USA and the world because they were not ready for such a disaster, and felt like they had no warning whatsoever. The warning signs were ignored.
How could a worldwide economic depression further Satan’s plans for planet Earth? Consider these possibilities:
· Foreclosure on property loans to gain ownership to millions of homes and millions of acres of land.
· Police state, bringing in martial law, (i.e., outlawing and imprisoning the religious right?)
· Ecology purge...closing factories, stopping cars and trucks, and decreasing the population. Some environmental groups have been working hard towards such goals.
· Bring in the One World Anti-Christ system.
If God complicates their plans and makes the depression much worse by bringing on several “natural disasters,” that could thwart the Antichrist's ability to:
· Initiate martial law and a police state. After the initial supply of gas and food that is in stock is used up there would be no way to replenish the supply for a long time.
· Postpone the ability of lending institutions to foreclose on loans.
· The anarchy that could rain in such conditions would be terrible for awhile, but not as terrible as the planned police state would have been.
· This would force the conspirators to come up with "plan B," a new monetary system. Just a thought.
This is all speculation, and a lot of writers will disagree with me. The point I hope to make is, we need to know how to pray, how to vote, and how to prepare physically, mentally, and spiritually for the age we are coming into.
In short, Americans needs to turn to God.
A New Monetary System
I believe this is the time a false savior will come on the scene to restore the economy with a new monetary system. I predict that this monetary system will be digital money in individual bank accounts that can be accessed on the world-wide-web (WWW). Since this digital money is not backed up with anything but faith in the system (much like our paper money today), a huge amount of credits in these personal accounts can be provided to every household on earth. For a while we can all buy, sell, and trade using this miraculous monetary system…until the world economy is stable again. As with any Internet provider, a contract and password will be needed. And after the economy is restored, the password can evolve into "the mark of the beast" (spoken of in the book of Revelation). So, what can we do to prepare ourselves (physically, mentally, and spiritually) for such a time?
I Say it is Time to Prepare For Hard Times Prior To “The Great Tribulation” with A Totally Self Sufficient Christian Community of Intentional Neighbors
I borrowed this quote from Rick Joyner. He said, "Just as true warriors run to the sound of battle, not away from it, there are Kingdom messengers who will not run from disaster and problems, but to them. They will not shrink back from any level of chaos, but rather bring order and peace to it. As the world continues to fall apart, they will stand on solid ground, and in due time begin to draw the attention of the world because of it. These will not lose their peace in the midst of any threat or problem because they will have built their lives on the Kingdom that cannot be shaken by anything happening on the earth. Their peace will calm many storms.
One of the basic characteristics of those whose lives have been established on the Kingdom of God, is that they will have peace and come alive, even thriving during times of trouble. This is because they have been prepared to live in the greatest time of trouble the world has ever known. They prepared by building their lives on the Kingdom, not on the things of this world that are so easily shaken."
Many Christians are being called to prepare for such a time by way of a self-sufficient Christian community that does not need to buy, sell, or trade to live comfortably. And most importantly, such communities can serve as a refugee camp. The Amish have lived a self-sufficient (outside the system) lifestyle for centuries, and we can expand upon their model (even though we are not Amish) to receive hurting people.
To read about how my wife (Lora) and I are setting up our Christian community—the ArkHaven Community of Intentional Neighbors go to www.arkhaven.org/arkhaven_christian_community.htm
WHY: The Lord disciplines those whom He loves, and great discipline will come upon the United States because of God's love for our nation.
The ArkHaven Christian community anticipates the coming of troubled times happening BEFORE the official "Great Tribulation" comes. As I said earlier, millions of Christians in China and other nations are under terrible tribulation and persecution and martyrdom on this very day. To say it can't happen in America is not being realistic. But to say we should prepare for such an eventuality as best we can is realistic.
It will take a lot of Godly wisdom to know what to prepare for, and how to prepare for it. Understanding how to prepare will take Christians like you receiving a revelatory word from God, and then being obedient to move on the direction God has given you.
I (Kenneth Uptegrove) am reporting on what my wife (Lora) and I feel God has shown us, and many others.
HOW: Providing our own food, water, power and septic system, such as....
· Truck farming: Hydroponics, greenhouses, gardens, berry bushes, fruit trees, grains and soy beans, all done by the natural and organic method (the only method available at that time).
· Animal husbandry: Chickens, fish farm, milking goats, draft horses, etc.
· Either an artesian well or a large spring with our own water tower and pipelines.
· Either a large wooded area or a natural gas well on the land for an energy source.
· Several 500 gal. propane gas tanks are an option.
· Solar panels, and will consider 50 ft. wind generators.
· The kind of septic system that purifies waste water so well that it can be used to water a lawn.
· We will always be dependant upon God as our source and our hope, utilizing what He makes available for us to use to survive and to serve all who come to us.
· Churches, ministries, and investors are welcome to help construct our vision.
WHERE: In the North West corner of Arkansas, preferably in either Washington or Benton county. To read more about this concept and plan for Christian Community go to www.arkhaven.org/arkhaven_christian_community.htm. This website shows a map that locates other ideal areas in the continental USA to establish a community like ours, and to find a lot more information than this article contains.
PROTECTION: The first question that always comes up is, how do we intend to protect our campus from marauders. We will depend upon the Lord for His divine protection and provision as He promised Moses, Joseph, Noah, and many others. There will be no barbwire fences, and gun towers, or armed guards in uniform. No David Koresh compound stuff. And since we are solidly main stream Evangelical, there will be no Jim Jones stuff. We will welcome all who come needing help, therefore there will be no need for anyone to feel like they need to kill us and take over the campus.
BIBLE PRECEDENT: These precedents need little introduction.
· Moses showed us that we must accept the possibility that we may eventually and ultimately be living by miracles alone as his people did in the wilderness. God provided them with physical protection, provision, and promise.
· Joseph is another model for us. He had seven good years to prepare Egypt and his family for seven bad years. Whatever time we have left we need to be preparing for the eventuality of the coming bad years, however many years that may be in the future.
· Noah was instructed by God to prepare a place ( Ark) that was totally self-sufficient, so he and his family could survive the flood. The Ark was God's place of promise, provision and protection. ArkHaven was named after the Ark model, but incorporates the insight these three models give us.
You can read more about our name and vision at www.arkhaven.org/the_arkhaven_story.htm.
· 2 Timothy 3:1 “But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.”
IN CONCLUSION: No matter what your or my eschatology is, the scenario I have presented to you today, will prove to be accurate—but not exact. As always, we will need to hear from God, and be obedient to His instructions on a daily basis, rather than depending on an eschatological teaching or some leader we look up to.
Not all Christians will be called to join a Christian community. David Wilkerson talks about other callings in the two books I mentioned earlier. But we all must ask God if what was said in this article is from Him or not. And if you sense that God is telling you, “Yes, it is,” then you need to ask Him what He would have you do to prepare for this coming time.
To read more about how the ArkHaven Christian Community of Intentional Neighbors will be organized go to http://www.arkhaven.org/the_arkhaven_story.htm.
Hear Ken talk about this article at length on a three hour talk show at www.arkhaven.org/prophetic_watchman.htm.
Spirituality: Enemies In Our Mind
by Angie Lewis
March 21, 2008 - Many beliefs and ideas from the world teach us things that might be contrary to our conscience, and yet we still listen to these ideas and allow them to form a part of what we believe as truth. We can either grow with the culture or we can grow with God in His spiritual kingdom here on earth. This article will explore, in a nutshell, three major enemies within our mind. The complete free e-book on this can be found on my website.
1. Beliefs
Simply, what are your beliefs? What do you believe is truth for your life? Some of us believe in our past too much instead of living for the "here and now". Past issues can literally haunt us every single day. It is hard to give up thoughts and beliefs that have fed our mind, but it is useless clutter that we need to destroy. We do that by trusting in the real source for our lives? Where is the faith?
The best way to discern what is truth is to look for the fruits. What fruits have come out of a certain belief will let you know if it is fact or fiction.
Beliefs, if not from the source of who you are, tend to give you false impressions of what truth really is. Meaning, you believe things that seem good and right but are actually wrong for you and your family. What you think and perceive in the mind will ultimately come out in your actions.
For instance, if I believe that it is okay to look at pornography, since I have justified in my mind it is not the actual act of adultery, then I will look at pornography. My mind has told me that there is nothing wrong with it. But this does not make it right for my marriage, or me, does it? Look for the fruits!
2. Attitudes and thoughts
Attitudes and thoughts are the offshoots of what we believe because they form what we accept as true and what we have faith in. It is so very important in life that we have strong, healthy spiritually growing minds so all the wickedness and lies going on in the world will not fill us up and form our beliefs.
Many of us are rebellious to the truth because we want to live life the way WE WANT. What people don't realize is, there is way more to life than what they are now perceiving, and that they can be happier, freer and more content filled people if they accepted God's truth for their answers!
Did you know that sin develops from having a bad attitude?
"…What comes out of a man is what makes him unclean. For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance, and folly. All these things come from the inside and make a man unclean." Mark 7:20-23
Jesus was pointing out that sin actually begins in the attitudes and intentions from within a person. An evil action begins with a thought, because our minds dwell on that thought, whether it is lust, envy, hatred or revenge. In the same way Jesus tells us that we are not pure because of our outward acts of kindness, but we become pure on the inside as Christ renews our minds and transforms us into His image.
"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world - the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever." 1 John 2:15-17
3. Pride – Sin
This is a biggy! Pride is a major conflict in most of our lives, we all have it and we all use it on occasion, some of us more than others. Pride keeps us from trusting, accepting, recognizing, loving, and living fully! Pride keeps us from trusting in Gods wisdom for our lives. Pride is what makes us selfish and rebellious. So you can see how pride would hold us back from coming to our full potential, right?
Some of us have become very rich with money in our life, and we should be careful not to let pride get in our way of listening to God's wisdom for us because of those riches. Materialism keeps people from opening their mind to God's wisdom; they may never come into their full potential as spiritual believers. God wants all of His children to prosper and be industrious and ambitious, but those things should never come first in a person's life.
We want acceptance from others, and yet many of us have a hard time accepting differences in others! We want to be trusted, but we cannot trust even the source of who we are, what kind of nonsense is that? Half of the people reading this e-book have already been through a divorce. They never fully loved the first love of their life. Could it be that pride got in the way of giving away their love unselfishly and unconditionally?
He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight." Luke 16:15
Can you see how pride would stand in the way of our spiritual wellness?
Coming into and living our full potential is understanding, recognizing, and applying all the aspects of who we are. This brings us into all that we can be for ourselves and those we love.
The religious leaders knew what the Bible said but failed to apply its words to their lives. They knew the teachings of the scriptures but failed to see the Messiah to whom the Scriptures pointed. They knew the rules but missed the Savior. Entrenched within their own religious system, they refused to let the Son of God change their lives!
Bottom line: Don't become so involved in "religion" that you miss out on Christ!
Whose praise do you seek? The religious leaders enjoyed great stature in Israel, but their stamp of approval meant nothing to Jesus. He was concerned about God's approval. This is a good principle for us. Even if the highest officials in the world approve of our actions and God does not, we should be concerned. But if God approves, even though others don't, we should be content.
Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." Mark 9:35
About the Author
Angie Lewis is the author of Journey on the Roads Less Traveled, a book about love, life and marriage. Angie has written a new book, Love The Man Your Married. In her book Angie shares and answers comments and questions from married couples about marriage related issues that affect couples today.
The book involves all areas in marriage that couples need to know and understand and apply for a successful marriage. This book is a most reliable resource for married couples, from infidelity issues to complete forgiveness. It is my hope that all couples find and begin to utilize the biblical truths for their marriage by reading and studying this book.
If you value your relationship with your spouse, and want to read about positive ways to save your marriage, then this book is a must read! Pick up a copy today!
To find out more about this new book click here,
http://www.spiritual.journeybooks.4t.com and
http://www.heavenministries.com
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