Shalom,

I have always stood on this Scripture for my children! Proverbs 22:6:

6 Train up a child in the way he should go [and in keeping with his individual gift or bent], and when he is old he will not depart from it. AMP

I especially like the Amplified Bible for this one because it includes being aware of the particular gifts and talents that God has placed within them! This is vital for a parent to know and to do! We have the responsibility to recognize in them, with the help of the Spirit of God, those special endowments so that we can steer them to develop them! Teaching and training them to develop these "talents" will prepare them to be found faithful when the Master desires an accounting! Here are two more Scriptures, Ephesians 6:4 and 2 Timothy 3:15,  that encourage the training of our children! they are WELL able to grow in understanding of the thins of God! The SOONER we begin, the better!

4 Fathers, do not irritate and provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to resentment], but rear them [tenderly] in the training and discipline and the counsel and admonition of the Lord.  AMP

15 And how from your childhood you have had a knowledge of and been acquainted with the sacred Writings, which are able to instruct you and give you the understanding for salvation which comes through faith in Christ Jesus  AMP

AMEN! Here is an example of children taught in the Word and nurtured in their gifts! Hillsong Young And Free, the youth Praise and Worship team from Hillsong Church, with their first single called "Alive":

ALIVE!

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Today I am sharing Kenneth E. Hagin's Faith Food again! 

Made Manifest - June 29, 2013

"Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life [zoe] also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life [zoe] also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh" (2 Cor. 4:10-11). 

Paul is talking about zoe being manifested in our mortal bodies. But he's not talking about the resurrection of the body, for "mortal" means subject to death. When we're raised up, we'll have an immortal body. No, Paul is talking about having this zoe life of God which came into our spirits at the New Birth manifested during this life - in our death-doomed mortal flesh! 

I am convinced that if we learn how to walk in the light of life, and let that life which came into us at our New Birth dominate us, there is no reason at all why we can't live to a great age, if Jesus tarries His coming. I know the outward man is decaying, but the zoe life of God can be made manifest in our mortal flesh! 

Confession: Thank You, Father, that the life that is in my spirit can also quicken my mortal body. It can make my body full of life, health, and healing. Because in the great plan of redemption, which You planned and sent the Lord Jesus Christ to consummate, there is not only the rebirth of my spirit, but there is also healing for my physical being. "Himself took my infirmities and bare my sicknesses." What Jesus bore, I need not bear. By Jesus' stripes I am healed. I am made whole - spiritually, physically, and mentally. According to the Word of God, I am healed! I am whole! 

This is so very important for born again believers to know and understand! Look at this from our reading in Colossians today. Verses 2-3:

2 [For my concern is] that their hearts may be braced (comforted, cheered, and encouraged) as they are knit together in love, that they may come to have all the abounding wealth and blessings of assured conviction of understanding, and that they may become progressively more intimately acquainted with and may know more definitely and accurately and thoroughly that mystic secret of God, [which is] Christ (the Anointed One). 3 In Him all the treasures of [divine] wisdom (comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God) and [all the riches of spiritual] knowledge and enlightenment are stored up and lie hidden.

All of the "riches" lie hidden ONLY from those who refuse to make it their determined purpose to KNOW HIM! Don't let that be you! Make your decisioon today to go hard after HIM so that your life on this earth will point people TO Him! AMEN! Here is Hillsong with "God One And Only":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Proverbs 28:1 says this:

1 The wicked flee when no man pursues them, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous are bold as a lion.

Understand that if YOU have received Jesus as Lord and personal Savior, then YOU are "the righteous" (2 Corinthians 5:21)! You SHOULD be as bold as a lion! How bold IS a lion? Look at Proverbs 30:30:

30 The lion, which is mightiest among beasts and turns not back before any; AMP

YOU stand strong and refuse to turn back, give up or quit in the face of ANY and EVERY opposition! BE as bold as a lion in every aspect of your life! Refuse to let the impostor, who goes around AS a lion (he is NOT a lion, just posing as one! - 1 Peter 5:8), cause you to back down even a tiny bit! Look at Proverbs 28:15:

15 Like a roaring lion or a ravenous and charging bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people.

Notice who is trying to ACT like a lion here! The "wicked ruler"! He is ALL talk! When "we the people" refuse to back down and actually take up our position of authority, then he WILL back down! We MUST give our angels something to work with! They are jut waiting for us to speak the Bible answer into the earth so that they can act on it and WE can win! AMEN! So what shall we do? Look at verse 14:

14 Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) is the man who reverently and worshipfully fears [the Lord] at all times [regardless of circumstances], but he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity. 

WE will see the Salvation of our God and the wicked shall perish! CHOICES! Let's walk in the authority we've been given for as long as Jesus needs us to be here doing so. Soon and VERY soon, He will split the sky and lift us out of here! AMEN! Here is "The Bold Song" by Ken Blount:

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Yesterday I shared my favorite Scripture in Philippians 3:10 and that MY goal is to KNOW HIM! Look at what David instructed his son Solomon to do as he took over rule of Israel and the building of the Temple in 1 Chronicles 28:9:

9 And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father [have personal knowledge of Him, be acquainted with, and understand Him; appreciate, heed, and cherish Him] and serve Him with a blameless heart and a willing mind. For the Lord searches all hearts and minds and understands all the wanderings of the thoughts. If you seek Him [inquiring for and of Him and requiring Him as your first and vital necessity] you will find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever!

Notice that David did NOT instruct his son to attempt the impossible, to live without ever making a  mistake! Instead, he instructed him to do the most important and most powerful thing that a believer can do - KNOW HIM! Have a heart that goes hard after God! WHEN you make a mistake, confess it (1 John 1:9) and then get back to the Word so that you can continue to know Him more! AMEN! Here is a new (to me) song that speaks powerfully about the importance of really knowing Him! NOT just knowing ABOUT Him (Religion) but really getting to KNOW Him, through His Word! It is called "What Do I Know Of Holy" by Addison Road. If this sounds like YOU, know that only YOU can change this by getting to know Him through His Word! (Hosea 6:3).

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Anyone who knows me well knows that the third chapter of Philippians is one of my very favorite portions of Scripture! Though i have covered it on this blog before, I can't NOT go into it again today! Look at verses 7-9:

7 But whatever former things I had that might have been gains to me, I have come to consider as [one combined] loss for Christ’s sake. 8 Yes, furthermore, I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One), 9 And that I may [actually] be found and known as in Him, not having any [self-achieved] righteousness that can be called my own, based on my obedience to the Law’s demands (ritualistic uprightness and supposed right standing with God thus acquired), but possessing that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ (the Anointed One), the [truly] right standing with God, which comes from God by [saving] faith.

When Paul says above that he had "lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish", he was saying that whatever THIS world and THIS life have to offer, it doesn't even begin to compare with the life spent IN HIM and in the hereafter! God WANTS us to walk in the fullness of The Blessing, NOW, in THIS life! But in order to do so, we MUST make HIM our #1 Priority! How to do that? Look at Paul's decision in verse 10:

10 [For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power out flowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope] 11 That if possible I may attain to the [spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body].

Paul MADE it a DAILY priority to get to know Jesus more!  He goes on to say this in verses 12-14:

12 Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. 13 I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.

Are YOU "pressing on" to know Him and His Word, and to be obedient to what He says? There is NO substitute for knowing HIM! AMEN! Here is Hillsong with "I Live To Know You":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I really love this from today's Faith Food by Kenneth E. Hagin!

"As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams" (Dan. 1:17). 

"God gave them knowledge and skill." 

God gave Daniel and the other three Hebrew children, knowledge and all skill. Eternal life is the nature of God. You've got God's nature in you. Know that! Believe that! Confess that! Then that nature will begin to dominate you! Learn to walk in the light of life. Learn to put that life into practice in your being. Walking in the light of that life will enhance your entire personality, and will increase your intelligence. 

Confession: I am a new creation. I am born again. I am a new creature. I have the life and nature of God in my spirit. That life is the light of men. I purpose to walk in the light of life. God's life is in me. God's knowledge is in me. God's skill is in me. God's ability is in me. God's wisdom is in me. He is instructing me. He is leading me. I am a child of God. The Spirit of God in me is leading me. I'll follow His leading. I'll walk in the light of life.

As YOU allow the Spirit of God to lead you, pay attention to this verse, from our Spoken Word Bible Reading Plan for today, found in Proverbs 25:2:

2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of kings is to search out a thing. AMP

What is He concealing FOR us to find out? The Wisdom of His Word! Simply reading the Bible will NOT bring knowledge, understanding or Wisdom! What will? Look at Joshua 1:8:

8 This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success. AMP

"You shall meditate" is the Hebrew word "hagah", which means: to murmur, to ponder, to muse, to utter, to speak. So, read the Word, then think about it, allow the Holy Spirit to give you inner pictures of the Word, speak about it with like-minded believers, and when you get the understanding, then put action to it and you will see great success in all that you do! AMEN! HIS presence IN us makes all the difference in the world, and putting His Word in reinforces that "difference"! Here is Hillsong Live with "The Difference":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Proverbs 24:3-4 are very important verses to know and understand!

3 Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation], 4 And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

Wisdom is a person and His Name is Jesus! 1 Corinthians 1:30 tells us this! Knowledge is gained by spending time in the Truth of God's Word (John 17:17). Understanding comes when we allow the Teacher to teach us the Word (1 John 2:27), and then HE will lead us so that we can operate in the Wisdom of God! That is the only way that a born again believer is able to walk in the fullness of the Blessing of God according to the Covenant we have with Him through the blood of Jesus! It is NOT automatic! We HAVE a part to play! Our part is easy, Jesus already did the hard part! AMEN! Take advantage of all that He provided for you through all that He accomplished on the cross and through His Resurrection! You HAVE the Holy Spirit living in you! Begin to speak like it, look like it and act like it! THAT will point people to HIM! Here is an older song from Hillsong United called "Break Free":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I love this instruction by Paul from Ephesians 6:10:

10 In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides]. AMP

In our OWN strength, we are NOTHING! But IN HIM, and every born again believer IS, we have all of HIS strength and wisdom and might available to us to use! Look at the rest of Paul's instructions to us in verses 11-17:

11 Put on God’s whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil. 12 For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere. 13 Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place]. 14 Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God, 15 And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace. 16 Lift up over all the [covering] shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one]. 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.

We are "wrestling" with an enemy that cannot be seen with the natural eye or defeated by natural means! We MUST deal with spirit beings by spiritual means! Look 1 Corinthians 10:4:

4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) KJV

Now look at Ephesians 6:18 to see one of our mighty spiritual weapons!

18 Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

When we stay protected by the Armor of God and use the weapon of prayer in the Spirit, the enemy has NOT a chance of winning the battle! It's when we don't stay in the protection of God and don't get aggressive with our spiritual weapons that he can gain a foothold. STOP HIM by being diligent with the things of God on a daily basis! It is vital that we do so! AMEN! Here is a fun song by Hillsong Kids called "On The March":

ON THE MARCH LYRICS

I straighten up, I stand my ground
I'm in the army of God now
I'm not alone there's many more
We're gonna change the world.

I'm not afraid, How can I be?
My God is here, He's with me
I shine a light a light for you
In everything I do.

We're gonna change the world, We're gonna change the world
The army of God is on the march again
Hey, Hey
We're on the march again.

Have you got your belt of truth?(I've got that)
The breastplate of righteousness?(I've got that)
On your feet put the gospel of peace(I've got that)
Hold up the shield of faith(I've got that)
Put on the helmet of salvation(I've got that)
Lift high the sword of the spirit(I've got that)
Now you're wearing the Armour of God
'Cause we're a part of the army now

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I like this portion of today's "My Utmost For His Highest" by Oswald Chambers:

With what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you —Matthew 7:2

This statement is not some haphazard theory, but it is an eternal law of God. Whatever judgment you give will be the very way you are judged. There is a difference between retaliation and retribution. Jesus said that the basis of life is retribution— “with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” If you have been shrewd in finding out the shortcomings of others, remember that will be exactly how you will be measured. The way you pay is the way life will pay you back. This eternal law works from God’s throne down to us (see Psalm 18:25-26).

I would also add what Galatians 6:7 says, from both the KJV and the Amplified Bible:

7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. KJV

7 Do not be deceived and deluded and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained, or mocked by mere pretensions or professions, or by His precepts being set aside.) [He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God.] For whatever a man sows, that and that only is what he will reap. AMP

Make sure that YOU are sowing only those things that you WANT to have pouring back into your own life! AMEN! and then remember, also, Proverbs 22:1:

1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.

"Good name" is the Hebrew word "shem" and it means: name, reputation, memorial. What we SAY and DO will be remembered by others, and will be brought to mind on every remembrance of us! Make sure those memories will be GOD memories! They may or may not like you, but God will be pleased! AMEN! Here is Hillsong with "Your Name High":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I love this from the devotional on Jerry Savelle's website for today:

Boldness Before God

Remaining conscious of your righteousness in Christ will give you boldness before God and make your fellowship with the Father more intimate.

You will have confidence and boldness to come before Him and talk to Him as your best friend. There will be no sense of inferiority because you know that He looks at you and relates to you as if you are as perfect as Jesus.

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

“Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you” (John 15:15).

God doesn’t just want servants, He wants friends. He didn’t create Adam to have someone grovel at His feet with his face in the dirt. No! He wanted a man He could walk and talk with in the cool of the day (see Genesis 3:8).

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, the intimate relationship that Adam had with God before sin is now available to every believer. So come boldly to the Father today, secure in your righteousness in Christ, and talk to Him as you would a close friend.

Confession: Father, I come boldly before You knowing that You see me righteous and clean because of Jesus. As I share my heart and thoughts with You, I believe You will share Your heart and thoughts with me.

Remember what 1 Corinthians 6:19 tells us:

19 Do you not know that your body is the temple (the very sanctuary) of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God? AMP

SO, when we "come boldly to the throne of grace", we need travel no further than where  we are right now! Just recognize His presence IN YOU, by His Spirit, and speak to Him as you would any other person! With reverential awe and respect, of course! How very blessed we are to have such intimate access to the One, True, Most High, Living, Almighty God of the Bible! Are YOU taking advantage of that wonderful blessing? We were NOT meant to live in this world without it! AMEN! Here is Hillsong with "Father Of Creation":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Paul said this about himself in Ephesians 3:1-6:

3 For this reason [because I preached that you are thus built up together], I, Paul, [am] the prisoner of Jesus the Christ for the sake and on behalf of you Gentiles— 2 Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace (His unmerited favor) that was entrusted to me [to dispense to you] for your benefit, 3 [And] that the mystery (secret) was made known to me and I was allowed to comprehend it by direct revelation, as I already briefly wrote you. 4 When you read this you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ. 5 [This mystery] was never disclosed to human beings in past generations as it has now been revealed to His holy apostles (consecrated messengers) and prophets by the [Holy] Spirit. 6 [It is this:] that the Gentiles are now to be fellow heirs [with the Jews], members of the same body and joint partakers [sharing] in the same divine promise in Christ through [their acceptance of] the glad tidings (the Gospel).

What Paul had "already briefly wrote" about we covered in Galatians 1:16, where he declares that he did not confer with flesh and blood to learn the Gospel, but with Jesus Himself, by the Holy Spirit! What was the mystery? Many things were included in this "mystery", the Greek word "musteerion". which means: a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to understanding, a hidden purpose, a secret will. One of those things is shown above, that the the church, all born again believers in Jesus, are now ALSO God's chosen ones! We are part of the family of God, adopted in, with all of the same privileges and inheritance as JESUS Himself! These things were mysteries UNTIL the time when God's people would have the Spirit of God living IN them and could understand the Word of God! Not everyone will follow on to know the mystery, as Paul did! Remember that some of the disciples complained that Paul's teachings were too complex for them (2 Peter 2:16). Why could Paul understand and they could not? Because Paul had FOLLOWED ON to know! Look at Hosea 6:3a in various translations:

3 Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: KJV

3 Yes, let us know (recognize, be acquainted with, and understand) Him; let us be zealous to know the Lord [to appreciate, give heed to, and cherish Him].AMP

3 Let us know, let us strive to know Adonai. CJB

3 Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him. New Living Translation

3 We're ready to study God, eager for God-knowledge. THE MESSAGE

We WILL know, and the Word of God will become so very clear and logical, IF we will go after this knowledge of Him! Remember Paul's declaration in Philippians 3:10:

10 [For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope] AMP

There is only one person who has total control over how well we come to know HIM! That person, in  my life, is ME! Let's make it OUR determined purpose to know HIM more every day! Do you want to know another aspect of the mystery that has been revealed to us, the church? Look at Colossians 1:27:

27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: KJV

HE lives in US, by His Spirit! No longer in a building somewhere that we have to travel to, but IN US! There is so much more for us to learn about Jesus, about our Covenant sealed in His blood, about the Church, the Bride and God's plan for all of mankind! THAT should cause you to want to dive in deep RIGHT NOW! AMEN! Let's DO IT! Here is Hillsong United with "In The Mystery":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Proverbs 19:17 promises this:

17 He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and that which he has given He will repay to him.

"Has pity" here is the Hebrew word "chanan", which means: to be gracious, considerate, to show favor. When we treat the poor the way that Jesus treats us, then HE repays us for this kindness! Look at what the Message Bible says:

17 Mercy to the needy is a loan to God, and God pays back those loans in full.  THE MESSAGE

I also have always liked the Living Bible for this verse:

17 When you help the poor you are lending to the Lord-and he pays wonderful interest on your loan! TLB

Do YOU think that God is good for it? He certainly is! There is NO shortage in Heaven OR on earth! There is only shortage where people go contrary to the Word of God and try to do things their own way! God's way is SO much better! I also really like verse 23:

23 The reverent, worshipful fear of the Lord leads to life, and he who has it rests satisfied; he cannot be visited with [actual] evil.

When we begin to understand the depth and magnitude of our Covenant with Almighty God,  through the death, burial and Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus, then we will understand this statement! The enemy WILL try to send death and destruction our way because he hates the One, True, Most High, Living, Almighty God of the Bible, AND all that HE loves! As we stay in that secret place of Psalm 91, the place of being daily aware of His presence inside of us, then we will also have confidence in THIS promise from verses 7-10:

7 A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you. 8 Only a spectator shall you be [yourself inaccessible in the secret place of the Most High] as you witness the reward of the wicked. 9 Because you have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your dwelling place,  [Ps 91:1,14.] 10 There shall no evil befall you, nor any plague or calamity come near your tent. AMP

Look at this one from the Message Bible also:

7 Even though others succumb all around, drop like flies right and left, no harm will even graze you. 8 You'll stand untouched, watch it all from a distance, watch the wicked turn into corpses. 9 Yes, because God's your refuge, the High God your very own home, 10 Evil can't get close to you, harm can't get through the door.  THE MESSAGE

Let's keep our complete trust and confidence in the God of the Bible to do what he says He will do and commit ourselves to being a DOER of HIS Word! AMEN! Here is another older song from Hillsong called "I Give You My Heart":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Proverbs 18:9 is a very serious verse that we should meditate on and then examine our own lives to see where we fall in this! 

9 He who is loose and slack in his work is brother to him who is a destroyer and he who does not use his endeavors to heal himself is brother to him who commits suicide.

Once you receive Jesus as Lord and personal Savior, then your eternal home in Heaven is set! The every day decisions that we make affect this life on earth and our rewards in Heaven! This verse says that to be lazy and apathetic is exactly the same as being a destroyer! If we are NOT doing our part in building people up by the things we do and the words we speak, then we are in the same category with those who are actively tearing people down! This makes me think of the Dietrich Bonhoeffer quote: "Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act." The answer to every problem and situation is found ONLY in the One, True, Most High, Living, Almighty God of the Bible and His Word! BUT, there is a time to speak and expose evil so that people CAN look to HIM! If WE don't speak, who will? Make sure that you are using your words correctly! Verse 21 says this:

21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life].

So, SPEAK UP! Expose evil and then speak the Word in to every situation! Point them to the One, True God and His irresistable Love! YOU will be pleasing to Him and His rewards are GREAT! AMEN! Here is Hillsong United with "Relentless":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Today I am loving this devotional from Jerry Savelle:

Success Is Conditional

Some promises from God are conditional. That means you have to do something or meet a certain condition to qualify for the expected result. When you meet the conditions, your success is guaranteed, you cannot fail.

Some blessings from God are unconditional. For example, His love is always offered to you unconditionally, regardless of what you do.

Success is conditional.

Success and prosperity have been promised to all of God’s people, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they will automatically come to pass in your life. You must meet the conditions.

You might say to me, “When you start talking about conditions, are you talking about getting back under the Law?”

No, I’m not! Nowhere in the Word of God will you find any statement suggesting that you can do absolutely nothing and expect God to bless you. In fact, God tells us in Proverbs 6:10-11 and 24:33-34 that if we do nothing we will not succeed.

Though God will sometimes do acts of grace in a person’s life, the only way to guarantee success is to find out what God’s conditions for success are and act on them.

Here’s one scripture that gives us insight about how to obtain success:

Joshua 1:8 “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it; for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success” AMP

Confession: I make a quality decision today to meditate on the Word day and night, and to be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only. As I do this, I will become prosperous and have good success in everything I set my hand to do.

I think that Jerry says it all very well right here! Make sure that YOU know the promises AND the conditions for them! Then you, too, can make wise and godly decisions that will result in the manifestation of John 10:10 and 3 John 2 to be operating in YOUR life!

John 10:10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). AMP

3 John 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. KJV

AMEN! I LOVE the Word of God! Don't you? Here is Hillsong Live with "God IS Able":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

We've seen over the last few days how important it is to know the Word of God and to have our minds renewed to think like Him! Then today we see this in Proverbs 16:3:

3 Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.

When we commit every area of life to His will and His Word,, then HE will cause us to think correctly so that we can speak and act in such a way as to walk in the abundant life that He has already provided! Look, also, at the promise in verse 7:

7 When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. AMP

Look also at verse 9:

9 A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure. AMP

When we are truly committed to Him and submitted to His Word and His will, then HE can act on our behalf even when we miss it! What wonderful trust we can have! AMEN! Here is Hillsong with "The Freedom We Know" (BECAUSE of HIM!):

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I really like today's "My Utmost For His Highest" by Oswald Chambers:

Also . . . add to your faith . . . —2 Peter 1:5

In the matter of drudgery. Peter said in this passage that we have become “partakers of the divine nature” and that we should now be “giving all diligence,” concentrating on forming godly habits (2 Peter 1:4-5). We are to “add” to our lives all that character means. No one is born either naturally or supernaturally with character; it must be developed. Nor are we born with habits— we have to form godly habits on the basis of the new life God has placed within us. We are not meant to be seen as God’s perfect, bright-shining examples, but to be seen as the everyday essence of ordinary life exhibiting the miracle of His grace. Drudgery is the test of genuine character. The greatest hindrance in our spiritual life is that we will only look for big things to do. Yet, “Jesus . . . took a towel and . . . began to wash the disciples’ feet . . .” (John 13:3-5).

We all have those times when there are no flashes of light and no apparent thrill to life, where we experience nothing but the daily routine with its common everyday tasks. The routine of life is actually God’s way of saving us between our times of great inspiration which come from Him. Don’t always expect God to give you His thrilling moments, but learn to live in those common times of the drudgery of life by the power of God.

It is difficult for us to do the “adding” that Peter mentioned here. We say we do not expect God to take us to heaven on flowery beds of ease, and yet we act as if we do! I must realize that my obedience even in the smallest detail of life has all of the omnipotent power of the grace of God behind it. If I will do my duty, not for duty’s sake but because I believe God is engineering my circumstances, then at the very point of my obedience all of the magnificent grace of God is mine through the glorious atonement by the Cross of Christ.

THIS is why we are instructed in Romans 12:2 to do this:

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. KJV

And also from the Amplified Bible:

2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. AMP

With the renewing of our mind comes the Wisdom from God necessary to live THIS life in a way that is pleasing to Him and rewarding for us! AMEN! Here is Hillsong United with "Tapestry":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

There is more Truth in Proverbs 14:9 than many people realize! Here it is in the Amplified Bible:

9 Fools make a mock of sin and sin mocks the fools, but among the upright there is the favor of God.

"Fools" here is the Hebrew word "`eviyl". This is what Vine's Expository Dictionary says: generally lacks wisdom, indeed, wisdom is beyond his grasp. These fools mock, scorn and speak arrogantly of sin. Have you ever heard someone say, "I don't want to go to Heaven. All my friends will be in hell"? They are mocking the Bible and what the Bible has to say about sin and the sin nature! This is NOT a laughing matter however! The results of our mindset concerning sin and the Savior WILL affect the eternity of every person! For the believer who thinks its a light thing to dabble in sin, there is a price to pay right here, in this life! Look at John 10:10:

10 The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). AMP

The "thief" refers to satan, his demons, his tricks and tactics, and his lies about the Word of God! NOT having the Wisdom of the Word operating in our lives will make us fair game for the enemy to enter in and steal, kill and destroy all that is precious and valuable to us here! WE have the full authority and control over our lives on this earth. We can choose to do things God's way or not! Doing things God's way allows the life of extreme abundance mentioned above to operate. Which do YOU choose? Please choose wisely! Here is Hillsong with another older song called "The Freedom We Know:

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Proverbs 13:13-14 says this:

13 Whoever despises the word and counsel [of God] brings destruction upon himself, but he who [reverently] fears and respects the commandment [of God] is rewarded. 14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death.

The Word of God IS Truth (John 17:17) and knowing and doing it will bring life, health, prosperity, favor, honor and blessing into your life! Remember to appreciate the teaching of the Word as though Jesus Himself were doing the teaching! If what is being taught lines up with the Word of God, then put it into practice and walk in the freedom that God intends! Despising the Word of God can include ignoring it or not obeying it! Don't be caught with that attitude or you will be inviting the enemy to wreak havoc in your life! The choice is yours, so choose wisely! Here is Hillsong with "Alive In US":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

Galatians 1:1 is the Apostle Paul saying this about himself:

1 Paul, an apostle—[special messenger appointed and commissioned and sent out] not from [any body of] men nor by or through any man, but by and through Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and God the Father, Who raised Him from among the dead—

Notice that there was no group of people deciding that Paul (previously Saul) should be the new apostle! There were no lots cast or votes counted! The One, True God selected him! SO, because Paul was selected by God, did he just automatically know all the "deep" things that he taught? NO! Look at what he said in verses 15-18:

15 But when He, Who had chosen and set me apart [even] before I was born and had called me by His grace (His undeserved favor and blessing), saw fit and was pleased 16 To reveal (unveil, disclose) His Son within me so that I might proclaim Him among the Gentiles (the non-Jewish world) as the glad tidings (Gospel), immediately I did not confer with flesh and blood [did not consult or counsel with any frail human being or communicate with anyone]. 17 Nor did I [even] go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles (special messengers of Christ) before I was, but I went away and retired into Arabia, and afterward I came back again to Damascus. 18 Then three years later, I did go up to Jerusalem to become [personally] acquainted with Cephas (Peter), and remained with him for fifteen days.

He didn't "magically" know so much and no human person taught him! How DID he learn so much then? At the feet of Jesus! He said that he did NOT confer with people! He spent time in the Word of God that he already knew as a well educated Hebrew, but the Holy Spirit taught Him what it all meant and how it relates to the church! I am convinced that even Paul did not completely understand  everything that he taught, and WE are still learning aspects of the Word today! The Word of God is LIMITLESS and there is NO END to the wonderful things we can learn from it everyday that we ATTEND to it (Proverbs 4:20-22)! AMEN! Make THAT your determined purpose today! Here is  Hillsong United with "Nova":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I think that today's Faith To Faith devotional by Kenneth and Gloria Copeland goes along very well with our SWC series on "Money Matters"! Here's a portion of it:

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

– Colossians 3:2

Things, things, things! A better job. A bigger house. New clothes for the kids. Tomorrow's luncheon date. A better television. Get the picture?

Many of us have learned to believe God to prosper us to such a degree that we have too much to keep up with. We end up spending so much time and energy taking care of the legitimate "things" of life that we unconsciously give the attention and affections of our heart over to this natural world instead of to God.

When Kenneth and I first heard about living by faith, we were in desperate circumstances. We were sick and broke, so it was easy for us to dedicate ourselves to prayer and to the Word. But as we honored God's Word, He honored and prospered us. We came to the place where we were no longer desperate. Then came the real test of our faith. Would we serve God out of our love for Him instead of our desperation?

Well, praise God, we did. But in the process we found out one thing: It takes a lot more dedication to serve God when you're prosperous than it takes when you're desperate! There's a constant temptation to get so caught up in the earthly things that your desire for the things of God fades into the background.

As the material blessings of God come your way, remember, God has not trained you in His Word so you can consume it on your own lusts. He has revealed His Word to you so you can walk in the Spirit and do the job He's called you to do.

Don't let the things of this world cause you to miss out on the glorious things of the Spirit. Get your priorities in line with God's Word. Set your mind on things above, and you'll discover just how heavenly life was really meant to be

                    We have seen many times over the course of the almost 32 years of The Spoken Word Church that someone will come to us in need of a job or some other financial or healing miracle. They are taught and trained in the Word of God and become a diligent DOER of the Word. Then, when the blessings begin to manifest and things are not so desperate, they slack off of their diligence in the Word and in the things of God. They begin to miss a service here and a service there until they are no longer coming at all! DO NOT allow that to happen to YOU! Remember, it is knowing the Word that sets you free, and continuing in the Word that KEEPS you free - in every area (John 8:32)! AMEN! Here is Hillsong United with "Search My Heart":

Shalom in Him!

Shalom,

I really like this from Jerry Savelle's  daily devotional today:

Today's Confession: I'm not normal. I'm living in the realm of the extraordinary.

Devotional: God wants us to begin to expect the extraordinary. Forget about the past and don't limit God by saying, "I've never heard anything like this before in my life." Don't say that. That doesn't have anything to do with what God's going to do in the future. You haven't seen everything God can do, but if you will dare to believe, then you will! In fact, His Word says: "Do not (earnestly) remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold I am doing a new thing." Isaiah 43:18,19 (Amplified Bible) God is doing a new thing. And, if God wants to do a new thing, then let Him do it! He says in Isaiah 43:13 (Amplified Bible), "I will work, and who can hinder or reverse it?" God is saying that He is going to do this. Satan's not going to be able to stop it. Governments are not going to be able to stop it. The economy won't be able to stop it. It's going to happen and you can either expect it to come to pass in your life or just hear about it happening to others. Either way, it's going to happen.

The Word of God says this in 1 Peter 2:9:

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

THIS is who we are IN HIM! It's high time we started looking, speaking and acting like it! Here is a very old song by DC Talk called "Nu Thang":

"Nu Thang"

[intro]
Ya know He's doin' it
God is doin' a nu thang
Ya know He's doin' it
God is doin' a nu thang
Ya know He's doin' it
God is doin' a nu thang
Ya know He's doin' it
God is doin' a nu thang 

My God is doin' a brand nu thang
But, since time began, He remains the same
Faithful, forever to His word
And solid, a cornerstone unstirred
But, look down through the ages and you will find
God doesn't change, but He knows the time
From harp to piano, and song to rap
Ya know, God's wit us, so we can not lack and so 

[chorus]
God is doin' a nu thang
In our lives so...
We're doin' a nu thang
Through Jesus Christ
God is doin' a nu thang
Through our music
We're doin' a nu thang
So He can use it 

God's usin' this music and we're comin' strong
DC Talkin', often singin' a song
To make ya think twice 'bout the way thatcha live
And, let ya know Christ is the one that'll give
Peace in ya heart, a nu start
Call on the Lord, and he'll do His part
A brand nu thang to ya raggedy walk
He might just match it up to that big ol' talk 

[repeat chorus]

[bridge-repeat intro]

Like an MC, I'm here to boast
I rap about Christ, yo here's a dose
So loud and proud of the God I serve
Try to say He ain't wit it...huh, ya got nerve
Christ is the reason for dc Talk
He's the focus of our daily walk, y'all
Without him, we ain't nothin' but names
But through God, we're doin' brand nu thangs 

[repeat chorus]

God is doin' a nu thang
We're doin' a nu thang [5x]

Shalom in Him!