“Because you have done this, and you have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom from you, and will give it to your servant.”1 Kings 11:11

During Solomon’s reign, no other nation in the world served God. The Lord had called the Israelites to be His people. He had given them His commandments, and their history was dominated by His presence. We might have expected God to conclude that, even when Israel sinned, it still was “better” than any other nation. And when their leader Solomon sinned, we might assume he still was more Godly than leaders in other nations. Surely, we might think, God wouldn’t send judgment. But this is not how God viewed Israel or Solomon. His Word had set specific standards by which they were to live. This was the basis of how they would be judged—not in comparison to other nations, but in comparison to His standards. They had sinned and would face the consequences. This is the model for how God judges our lives as well. As individuals, we might think that, even with our flaws, we still are “good enough.” Even when we violate His Word, we still might feel we’re “good people” who don’t deserve God’s judgment. As He looks at our nation, we might assume He considers us better than other nations and that, even with our flaws, we still are righteous enough. But just as in Solomon’s time, God reminds us that He judges us according to the standards He’s set and the commands He’s given to us. Brothers & Sisters today, make sure you are living according to God’s Word and not according to the opinions of other people or the standards encouraged by the world. Remember: God has given us His standards. Pray for your country and its leaders. Pray that your nation would stand for righteousness!

"I will not die, but live, and I will proclaim what the Lord has done."Psalms 118:17

A farmer and his friend went duck hunting. Eventually, they got to talking about the things of God, as they always would. "You're always talking about these battles you have with the devil," the farmer's friend said to him. "It's so silly – I mean, I'm not even a Christian and I've never experienced anything like that." "Yes my friend," the wise farmer answered, "but if you shot two ducks -- one was wounded and one was dead -- which would you go after first?" "Well," he said, "I guess I'd go after the wounded duck – I can always get the dead one later." "Mmm-hmm," said the farmer, "The devil knows you're a dead duck." For those of us who are walking with the Lord today, be encouraged! Our enemy knows that we have potential to do great things for God, and out of fear, he'll try anything to take us out. This is so very evident by the constant battle we all face. Brothers & Sisters, let's stand strong against the devil today! And rise up to the Lord's calling upon our lives! We will fight and we will WIN! Because if God is for us, who can be against us? ARE YOU A DEAD DUCK?

“The devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are also; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”Revelation 20:10

As we look at situations around the world, it can appear that Satan is winning. Everywhere we turn, we see sin and spiritual darkness, immorality and wickedness, turmoil and uncertainty, violence and war, broken homes and shattered marriages. Sometimes Christians seem defeated and discouraged, divided and outnumbered. Nevertheless, the Bible tells us Satan already is a defeated foe. In fact, the Bible says, “the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has only a short time” (Revelation 12:12). Knowing that his time is short, the devil is throwing himself into fierce spiritual warfare. Satan fights with intensity, attacking anyone who is vulnerable. He seeks to manipulate the media with his twisted images and messages. He encourages the development of TV programs, websites, books, and films filled with lies and spiritual darkness. The ideas he promotes may sound true, but they lead us away from God. He fosters marriage breakups and causes children to rebel against their parents. He tempts us and lures us into sin. Remember: You will be attacked. And the attacks might come in ways that surprise you. Often they come during moments when you’re vulnerable, and they target areas where you’re weak. Be on guard! Don’t take your enemy lightly! Brothers & Sisters fill your life with God’s Word…today and every day. Pray in the Spirit. Seek to stay faithful to God’s call on your life. Avoid places, ideas, and people that tempt you to sin. Instead, commit your time, talent, and treasure to serving God and furthering His Kingdom.

"Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts."James 4:3 ; "When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?"John 5:6

Jesus asked this man "Do you want to be made well?" Of course he did! Wouldn't you? Why did Jesus ask a question like this when its answer was so clearly obvious? It seems the Lord wanted to hear him verbalize his need. Sometimes the obvious things just smack us in the face, don't they? On several occasions, I've found myself in this very position! Silly me -- I forgot to ask! Brothers & Sisters, the Lord is asking us today, "Do you want to be made well?" Whether it be physical healing, spiritual, emotional or financial healing, no thing is too great or too small for our Lord! Perhaps we've just forgotten to ask Him! DO YOU WANT TO BE MADE WELL?

“We ought always to give thanks to God for you…we ourselves speak proudly of you…for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. This is a plain indication of God’s righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God.”2 Thessalonians 1:3-5

As he traveled throughout the Roman world, Paul encountered many types of people and situations. While sharing the Gospel, he also sought to teach what it meant to follow Jesus. His challenge was to encourage and motivate Believers in their faith, while also correcting and admonishing them. We see how he praised the Believers in Thessalonica for the example they had set for others. They demonstrated faith, through their individual lives as well as in the overall church. They also showed love for each other that “grows ever greater.” They had grasped these core elements of what it meant to serve Jesus. They realized the importance of living by faith, that love was central to God’s character, and the way in which they were to approach each other. Paul particularly was pleased by the perseverance and faith they had shown in response to difficulties. Faced with persecutions, others might have given up or compromised, but the Thessalonians had endured and remained steadfast. Paul reminded them that life is short and that God knew how they responded to problems. He would reward them. They shouldn’t be discouraged if they faced opposition and persecution. But as the ultimate Judge, God would bring about “righteous judgment” for everyone, including those who persecuted them. They needed to focus on being “considered worthy of the kingdom of God.” Living and responding in the right way, even if they were suffering. Brothers & Sisters in your life, don’t be surprised or discouraged if you face difficulties. Through every situation, seek to stay faithful, trusting in God. Focus on faith and love. Be a good example of how to live.

"The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge."Proverbs 18:15

If you want to be a good teacher, be a good student. When Jesus lived on the earth, his disciples were called "talmudim". The Hebrew literally means "students". "Talmudim" comes from the verb, "Lilmod", "to learn". In essence, talmudim are learners. We who know Jesus as Lord consider Him our Rabbi or Teacher, and ourselves, His talmudim. As such we continue to learn and grow in His wisdom, love, and character. This learning process involves regular tests from our Lord as He leads us from one level of faith to the next. I recall years ago when I was in school, never being a huge fan of tests -- in fact, rather disliking them quite a bit. I'd often find myself attempting to cram mountains knowledge into my poor brain the night before an important exam. Then, after completing the test I would quickly forget most of what I had crammed and scarcely absorbed. Doubtless had I been required to retake the test a week later, I'd almost certainly have failed it. But in the testing of faith, we cannot cram knowledge or understanding and still hope to pass. If we try this shoddy and superficial approach to learning we will simply find ourselves retaking the test, over and over again. If we are truly His talmudim, we will study, pray and delve deeply into the challenging material at hand, to learn and absorb the lesson well, so that we are educated, transformed, and well equipped to move forward in the Lord. Jesus wants us to learn today's lesson – because He has a new lesson for us tomorrow! Brothers & Sisters, what lesson is today's important lesson? Be diligent to understand and apprehend it, and even to begin applying it. So doing you'll be thoroughly equipped and prepared for the one your Rabbi will send next...maybe even, tomorrow! LEARN WELL!

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness…A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”Proverbs 15:1-2, 4

Our words are powerful. The Bible, in fact, reminds us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). They are so powerful that Jesus warned that “by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). This power is driven by the spirit with which we communicate. The tone of our voice. Our intentions. The attitude and atmosphere we create with these words. This presents a particular challenge when we face people who are angry or who seek a confrontation. Our first tendency might be to be defensive or argumentative—to fight back. But the Bible reminds us that harsh words and unkind answers can lead to even more anger. In contrast, words that are soft and gentle change the character of the conversation. Instead of intensifying conflicts, these answers can bring calm. When we have this attitude, we demonstrate that we are refusing to engage in verbal battles, and that our heart is not interested in winning a war but rather in engaging in conversation. In dialogue, fostering a spirit of harmony. We also are reminded how easily we can “bubble forth with foolishness” (Proverbs 15:2 Expanded Bible). How we can engage in an endless flow of words spoken without discernment or control. Instead, we need to learn to be wise when we speak, careful to “use knowledge.” But also to seek the control of the Spirit. As Paul described, to “speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths” (1 Corinthians 2:13). Brothers & Sisters, today, ask God to help you control your words. Remember that they can wound or heal, tear down or build up.

"Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him."Psalms 2:10-12 ; "Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever."Revelation 5:12-13

In the beginning of Psalm 2, David points out that the kings of the earth are against the Lord and his "anointed" ["Messiah"]. David recognized the true authority of God and advises the kings and rulers of the world, as well as their subjects, to "kiss the Son, lest he be angry." The act of "kissing the Son" would be one of homage to a king, and would indicate submission to the kingship of the Son. Those who are wise will do so before the Son, the Messiah, comes to judge the world! Men have often tried to appear holy and righteous before other men - but God is seeking those who will worship Him in "spirit and in truth". Brothers & Sisters, let's be sure that our worship of God is true and faithful and that we aren't trying to please men in doing so. Serve the Lord with a Godly reverence for who He is, and what His Son has done for you, since He is worthy of your worship, and ... He is looking at your heart. KISS THE SON, LEST HE BE ANGRY!

"Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad."Proverbs 12:25

But why is it that affirming words are so pitifully rare in our conversations, especially when so many many people are anxious, discouraged, and depressed by all the negativity in this life? We're living in a world that's constantly knocking us down, from cradle to grave. Is it any wonder that anxiety and depression are rampant at every age level? But notice the advice that Solomon gives -- a good word makes the heart glad. We should take this to heart. A compliment or blessing can be one of the greatest motivators, and can be truly life changing. And every one of us needs this kind of encouragement to run the race of this life. Brothers & Sisters, let's be people of encouragement, looking for the word which will lift another person up and bring healing and hope to her soul. A good word will also do wonders for our own hearts. GIVE A GOOD WORD!

“The seventy returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.’ And He said to them…I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you.’”Luke 10:17-19

The disciples had seen Jesus perform miracles. They knew He had authority and power. But the time came when they needed to perform miracles themselves. The disciples’ opportunity came when Jesus sent out 70 of them to minister in His name. Some might have been apprehensive or unsure. However, when they applied the principles Jesus had taught them, they realized that everything He said was true! They “returned with joy,” having experienced power even over demons and demonic forces! Instead of doubting or being filled with worry, the disciples simply had obeyed Jesus’ commission. They believed He had given them authority! As a result, amazing things happened! This is the kind of power and authority God offers all of us as His children. But this miracle-working power is only released when we’re obedient to His Word, faithful to His call on our lives, and acting in the authority we’ve been given. Sadly, many Christians go through life failing to grasp this awesome authority. They sit back and accept defeat, filled with fear and doubt. Instead of being bold, they’re silent. They live their lives as victims, not victors. Brothers & Sisters today, don’t be timid or weak. Fill your life with the Word of God, and believe it! Have the courage to put His Word into practice in your life. Don’t allow the enemy to defeat you or steal the victory God already has given you. Believe God’s promises—all of them! Be bold, and declare victory over the enemy’s schemes. Act upon the authority God already has given you!

"He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the LORD God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over. And when the sons of the prophets which were to view at Jericho saw him, they said, The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him."2 Kings 2:13-15

When Elijah went up to to heaven, Elisha took up his mantle and walked in the power of Elijah. The Hebrew word for mantle is "aderet". It's root word is "adir", which means excellent, gallant, glorious, mighty, noble and worthy! Elijah was a man with these qualities. The mantle that Elisha received from Elijah meant a calling which was powerful. Elisha had earned it. When the two first met, Elisha had slaughtered the oxen he was plowing with, and burned them on the wood of their yoke as an offering. Then he followed and served the prophet until the day Elijah was taken miraculously to Heaven. An officer of King Jehoshaphat summed up Elisha's life with these simple and beautiful words: “Elisha son of Shaphat is here. He used to pour water on the hands of Elijah. ” Just before Elijah was taken to Heaven he said to his servant, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?” Elisha answered without hesitation, "“Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit”. Having served his mentor so faithfully, Elisha boldly and humbly asked for a double portion of his master's spirit, and received it in full. The sons of the prophets at Jericho did not fail to recognize the anointing which Elisha carried. He carried it because of his excellent and faithful service and devotion to the man of God. We too are called by the Son of God to excellence, devotion and faithful service. The anointing which we carry from Him will express these qualities. Jesus is our perfect example, our mentor and master. Following and serving him day by day, faithfully and carefully, we will live under His glorious "mantle". Brothers & Sisters, we are called to excellent and faithful service to exemplify and walk in the anointing of our Lord. God has given us a glorious mantle to wear, His very own Spirit, that we might live excellently, mightily, gloriously, gallantly, nobly and worthily. May we receive the grace daily to wear His mantle as Elisha did Elijah's. Even as Elisha received the "double portion", we too may do "greater things". TAKE UP YOUR MANTLE!

“When good things increase, those who consume them increase. So what is the advantage to their owners except to look on?”Ecclesiastes 5:11

How much “stuff” is enough? How many “things” do we really need? In the rush of our daily lives, so much attention in society is placed on possessions. New “things” are being developed constantly. Breakthroughs provide new ways to be entertained and communicate. Innovations are introduced to improve our lives. The accumulation process never seems to stop snowballing until, in reflective moments, we might pause and realize just how much we have accumulated. Evaluating our possessions (and our needs and wants) is an important part of our lives. The Bible urges us to seek God’s perspective, and trust Him to meet our needs (Philippians 4:19). It encourages us to realize we don’t need to worry but should seek first His Kingdom, confident that He will take care of us, just as He does the birds and flowers (Matthew 6:25-34). The Bible describes how one man looked back at his life and thought about all he had accumulated, only to realize that all was “vanity and striving after wind” (Ecclesiastes 2:11). It was a process that never ended. He kept getting more things, yet found that they never gave him lasting joy or peace, but instead led to a sense of emptiness. And he realized how little things added to his life. The one benefit? He was able to look at them. Brothers & Sisters today, ask God to give you perspective on your life. Seek first His Kingdom. Trust Him. And don’t let things control your life.

"Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a corrupt tree bears evil fruit. A good tree cannot produce evil fruit, nor can a corrupt tree produce good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and cast into the fire. So then you will know them by their fruits."Matthew 7:17-20

In Zimbabwe, it's amazing how many trees are being planted all the time. Now suppose I wanted to plant a fig tree -- would I go searching for lemon seeds? Of course not! And even if I planted a fig tree next to a lemon tree, it would still only produce figs, no matter how close it was planted to the lemon tree. So in our lives, though we may be surrounded with sourness, even planted in a "lemon grove", we are "fig trees" -- and the sweetness of our fruit will remain, because we were planted by the Lord Himself, to produce good fruit under all conditions. There is no question that if we are planted in Him the good fruit we bear will come forth in both good times and bad times. Life is filled with ups and downs, unforeseen circumstances that send our lives in strange loops we weren't expecting -- nevertheless we were fashioned to be fruit bearers...unconditionally. You may say " George, you don't understand, you have no idea what's happening in my life right now!" You're right, I don't -- but I do know the Lord who laid down his life unconditionally for you -- and that He did it so He could abide in you and you in Him -- guess what for... Brothers & Sisters, if life is overwhelming you, then it's time to reach down deep and draw nourishment from the Root of our lives Jesus the Messiah. The sap of His Life will produce... MUCH! GOOD! FRUIT!...despite the lemons! BE FRUITFUL IN SPITE OF YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES!

"And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will."2 Timothy 2:24-26

When the apostle Paul wrote this letter to his young student Timothy, he taught him some profound truths that I often apply in my life. I suppose when Timothy received these instructions, he was about my age – a young man still developing his skills at evangelism, teaching and instructing. Early in my Christian walk, I grabbed hold of a passage – let no man despise thy youth, but rather be an example in word, in conversation, in love, in spirit, and in faith. Now I'm focusing on being a servant able to teach. Paul's instruction is not to "strive" I hear him saying "be careful to teach with a proper spirit" and to avoid "trying to prove that you're right". I want to be sure that I'm not trying to force my perspective on someone, but rather instruct with meekness, gentleness, and patience. One phrase in the verse says something about the effect of teaching in the right spirit-– "they recover themselves"! It's not our job to convince someone of the truth. We "contend earnestly for the faith" allowing the Holy Spirit to do the convincing, so that someone who is in error is free to repent based on God's conviction, and not my persuasiveness. So let's be sure we're leaving room for Him, teaching in a manner that Paul would be proud of. Brothers & Sisters, we're all called as servants; so let's strive to be servants that would make our Master proud! LEARN HOW TO TEACH!

"When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing."John 9:6-7

I read this passage and I wonder how I would react if someone mixed their saliva with some dirt on the ground and put it on my face like this. Why didn't Jesus just heal this guy and be done with it? Why the messy prelude? If you'll notice, Jesus did two things. First, He placed mud on the man's eyes. Then, He told him to go and wash himself in the pool of Siloam. Of course, the man willingly obeyed. If you had some gross concoction smeared on your eyes, wouldn't you? The mud actually provided the motivation for his obedience. My point? We don't always have to understand why we find our selves muddy sometimes. Perhaps if we weren't muddy, we'd never be motivated to obey! And obedience is crucial to a successful and flourishing walk with the Lord. Brothers & Sisters, let's not despise the mud on our face today. We all have times of trial. Let's use them for an opportunity to be obedient! God is just trying to help us see better! SOMETIMES WE GOTTA GET DOWN AND DIRTY!

“Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.”Proverbs 22:6

Who is raising our children? Many parents simply assume they are the primary teachers. But there is growing evidence that much of the education of our young children actually is being done…by television. Mothers expose their children to TV or radio on an average of two hours per day! Please warned that this level of exposure is very unhealthy, and many children are “consuming too much media.” It has become far too easy and convenient to use television as a babysitter. In the process, TV has become a teacher in many homes, even a surrogate parent. But stop to consider what attitudes are being taught through television! What is the long-term impact on a child’s thoughts, behavior, and beliefs? In addition to shaping the attitudes of our children, the media forms habits that can last a lifetime. Instead of basing our lives on the timeless Word of God, many of us line up our lives with the standards in movies and TV programs. Perhaps without even knowing it, we let the media shape our beliefs about politics, fashions, morals, even our faith and attitude toward God and the Bible. Brothers & Sisters Today, think about the media’s role in your life. Has it become your teacher? Are you allowing TV programs, movies, and websites to shape your attitudes? What role does TV play in the life of your family? Make sure you are basing your attitudes and beliefs not on the media, but on the Word of God. Be on guard about what you allow into your home, and dedicate your resources to creating Christ-centered alternatives.

"Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. 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: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."Joshua 1:3,7-8

As Joshua is about to enter the promised land, God reassures him and affirms the promise that was given to Moses, saying, "Wherever you place your feet – it shall be given to you!" God reveals His will, makes an amazing promise, then gives His servant a practical principle for working the promise out and claiming it, telling Joshua to literally step into His will. This is true for every believer. Our mandate is to know, understand and step out into the will of God. How can we know God's will?" "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." [Romans 12:2] But once we know His will we need to have the faith and courage to step out into it. If you don't step out – you can't receive it! Who knows how many blessings we've passed on because we were too afraid to step out! So become like Joshua today! Step out in faith! The enemy of our souls is desiring to prevent us from stepping out – but the promise was given that we should "tread upon the power of the enemy" [Luke 10:18-20]. Brothers & Sisters, step out in His will, claim the promise He has spoken to you– and it shall be given to you! Step out – press through – and know the promises are sure to follow – God has spoken, your part is to step out! TREAD & RECEIVE THE PROMISES!

"But thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."1 Corinthians 15:57

The enemy of our souls, Satan, knows his time is short and he is unleashing unprecedented war against the saints throughout the world. But we too must resolve to stand face to face against our enemy and claim the victory we already have in the Lord! Brothers & Sisters, each of us is suffering trials and tribulations today. Stand firm! Let’s recognize the truth that the victory is already ours --- and walk in it! Greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world! Never surrender!

"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day."2 Corinthians 4:16

There is a process going on in us believers. Since the day the Holy Spirit came to dwell in us He has been at work with perfect wisdom and supernatural power to renew and transform our character, to some extent, our personality, and even our physical body. Our outward man, this mortal body with it's natural weakness and sinful ways was doomed to death and is "wasting away" even now. Yet a new life dwells within this clay jar, and that life is constantly at work having a profound effect on the body which contains it. The Holy Spirit is working renewal, the manifestation of God in and with us. Real estate developers do something similar. They buy a piece of property that is terribly run down, seemingly useless, without much value to the naked eye...and reform it completely, from the inside out. With great skill and vision, they know what to keep, what to get rid of, what part of the property needs renovation, refurbishing, or complete rebuilding. So it is with God and us. He knows everything that comprises our life from the moment of conception; our gifts, abilities, strengths, weaknesses, wounds, and all the characteristics of our personalities. And He wants to completely renovate us according to the vision He has for our lives, which is much greater than we can imagine. He has purchased the "property" of our lives, with His blood, and His Holy Spirit is powerfully and skillfully at work developing the Lord's "real estate"! Brothers & Sisters, your life is in good hands. Your Developer knows exactly what He's doing with you. You might be a little tired or discouraged, run down, or even wrecked in some places, but soon, you will sense, once again that He is building, renovating, and renewing you in the best possible way...for eternity. DON'T FAINT, YOU'RE BEING RENEWED!

"Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you."Hosea 10:12

"Break up your fallow ground." "Fallow" means "hard". A hard heart cannot love; and often cannot even receive it. A hard heart will block relationship with God and with others. Whatever the cause; anger, woundedness, bitterness, unforgiveness, the result will be a superficiality in relationship, an inability to empathize, and a corruption of your motivations. You will become manipulative, deceitful, proud, and unresponsive. God's message, His word to you will be difficult to hear and you will resist it. Like a layer of rock under shallow soil, where the rain cannot penetrate, love and truth will fail to penetrate your heart and affect your actions. Thus, a hard heart is deadly, because sin is petrified there, and the wages of sin is death. How do you break up fallow ground? How do you change a hardened heart? You start with your will. You make a choice. You decide. Your decision is to soften, in spite of the way you feel, the things you remember, or have chosen to forget. Your decision is called "repentance", a changing of the mind, a turning of the will, in the opposite direction. The power of the will to repent is astounding because it opens the door for God to heal and transform your heart; to rain His love upon you and remove bitterness, unforgiveness, anger, and hatred or any other sin that is hardening your heart. Do you want to love? Do you want to be loved? But your heart is hard? Try repentance. Test God's power and will to heal and change you. But you must be willing to mourn. " Blessed are them that mourn." Repentance will open you to the rain of tears so that the pain and bitterness can pour out of you. But you will be amazed at what happens with your relationships. Love will enter and remain in your life; God's love and love with others too. Brothers & Sisters, millions have tried it; repentance works. Make it a lifestyle, and you will live and walk in love. CHOOSE REPENTANCE!

"That you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust."Matthew 5:45

The Lord is quoted in this scripture in Matthew. It contains an important principle which believers sometimes tend to overlook. Many believe and even teach that if you're blessed, your life will be filled with material prosperity, and that if you are undergoing extreme trial, it must be because you have sinned or that you lack faith. The Lord says that the sun rises and the rain falls on both the righteous and the unrighteous alike. A life of good circumstances does not mean that God is with us. And likewise, a life of trial and suffering does not mean that God is not with us! If we base our lives on our circumstances, we are no different than people without God. What makes us different is that we have something far greater than our circumstances! We have a relationship with the Living God! Brothers & Sisters, there's nothing wrong with rejoicing in the good times but we need to rejoice in the bad as well! We have a greater treasure and a more amazing victory when our lives our centered upon Him. YOU HAVE HIM, WHO IS GREATER THAN YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES!

“When they looked for him, he could not be found…The LORD said, ‘Behold, he is hiding himself by the baggage.’”1 Samuel 10:21-22

Saul seemed astonished. Was he really to be Israel’s king? How could this be true? He felt totally unqualified. Yet this is what he was told by Samuel. At the public gathering when their king was to be unveiled, Saul’s name was called, but he remained in hiding. This is how he began his reign as king—meek and totally dependent on God. Saul maintained this attitude in the early days of his regime, reigning with humility and trusting in God’s guidance and the presence of the Holy Spirit. But gradually everything changed. Saul started acting rashly, trusting himself instead of seeking God’s will or consulting with His prophet. The king reinterpreted God’s Word to satisfy his own interests, distrusted others, and even decided that David was a rival who must be eliminated. This kind of tragic transformation can happen to any of us. Like Saul, we can begin our lives and careers in humility, depending on the Lord. But the experience of power and success can change us. We can become proud and possessive, defensive and jealous, self-centered and protective. We can ignore or reinterpret God’s Word. Instead of serving Him, we can seek to build our own kingdom. This is what happens when we drift away from God. Like Saul, we find that our peace is gone and our prayers aren’t being answered. In desperation, we can be tempted to embrace false ideas that lead us down wrong paths. Brothers & Sisters today, remember that this kind of transition can happen to anyone. Be warned! Renew your complete dependence on God. Humble yourself before Him. You owe everything to Him. Everything! Live according to God’s Word. Be sensitive to His Spirit. And never forget to give Him all the glory!

"He makes the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still."Psalms 107:29

In the book, The Oracles of God, Richard Wurmbrand writes about acquiring inner peace and tells the following powerful story. During a tempest at sea when a ship was being tossed to and fro by the angry waves, the wife of a naval officer asked her husband, "How can you be so calm in such a storm?" The officer drew his sword, pointed it at his wife's breast, and asked, "Why are you calm and unafraid?" Surprised, she protested, "Why should I be afraid? The sword is in the hand of my husband who loves me too much to harm me." Her husband smiled and said, "This is the source of my calm, too. The wind and the waves are in the hands of my loving Father. Why should I be afraid?" Brothers & Sisters, are you in a tempest with waves roaring around you? Or is there a sword pointed directly at your breast? Why should you be afraid. Your Father is right there with you. He loves you and is so happy when you simply trust Him and refuse to be overwhelmed with fear; no matter what's happening now, or may happen soon. You may not understand, but you can stand on His character and the eternal relationship He has with you. WHY SHOULD I BE AFRAID?

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you."1 Peter 5:8-10

The Jewish leaders of His time rejected Jesus when He first came. He didn't meet their expectations. They were expecting a Messiah who would bring relief from the Romans, restore the Kingdom of David, and usher in an era of tranquility throughout the world. It is probable that their intense jealousy of Jesus blinded them to the numerous passages in the (OT) which describe Messiah as a suffering servant, since they were certainly aware of those passages. The Scriptures present two pictures of Messiah, leaving bible interpreters with a dilemma to explain. Zechariah 9:9 portrays him riding a donkey into Jerusalem, lowly and humble; Daniel 7:13 refers to the Messiah as coming on the clouds of heaven. Some of the rabbis concluded there must be two Messiahs. The truth is, one Messiah, two advents. When Jesus failed to fulfill the Jewish expectation of restoring the Kingdom of David, he was dismissed as Messiah. Their own lack of humility, their jealously and self centered pride caused them to miss what should have been obvious from the scriptures, that Messiah had to come first to identify with us, and then through suffering and death, break the power of sin, before he could restore the Davidic Kingdom. Is it possible for our expectations to be likewise colored or even contaminated by sin? We ought not to avoid the question. If our hearts are set in a self centered expectation of victory that fails to apprehend the suffering to which WE too are called, we can make the same mistake the rabbis made, and end up rejecting the true Messiah. While it's true that our ultimate victory is assured, we can never forget that the journey to that victory is a narrow path fraught with all the dangers of real warfare, with deadly enemies. Brothers & Sisters, check your expectations...what are they based upon? Are there selfish or carnal motives in your expectations of God? If Jesus said following him would be a narrow path with a cross on your back, then don't presume your victories until they have passed through the purifying fires of suffering. This is simply true fellowship with Him, and leads to the greatest glorious joys and triumphs. WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS?

"David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men."1 Samuel 22:1-2 ; "For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence."1 Corinthians 1:26-29

Early in his life David was forced to flee from his king and father-in-law, Saul -- to flee for his life. During this long season of exile and hiding David began to find himself surrounded by loyal friends who joined themselves to him. But these were friends of an unusual kind: they were men who had all been unhappy, distressed, helpless, or in debt -- by and large, the outcasts of the world. But an amazing thing happened to these formerly hapless human beings when they joined with David; they were empowered and became his "mighty men." When David finally became King of Israel, these men were ennobled and raised to be princes and officers in his Kingdom. As it was with David, so it is with Jesus. Jesus came to save sinners, the wretched outcasts of this world, discontented, indebted, distressed and helpless ... whom He clothes with His righteousness and fills with His Spirit, ennobles and transforms into "mighty men", who will rule and reign with Him in His kingdom! Brothers & Sisters, we have gathered ourselves to Jesus, the Messiah, the son of David, and He has chosen us as His friends and fellow laborers in His Kingdom, never again to be outcasts, but rather embraced in His love, part of His enormous family, and delegated and empowered to serve with Him in His Kingdom. Let's be encouraged remembering where we came from AND where we are going! YOU ARE CHOSEN AND CHANGED!

"Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Acts 13:33-34 God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David."Psalms 2:6-7 ; "And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:"Romans 1:4

The central fact of the gospel message is the resurrection of Jesus, declared in Psalm 2, the begotten Son of God. In 1952, Dead Sea scrolls were discovered in Cave 4 called the "Messianic Apocalypse". The Messiah's ministry of resurrection is reiterated in these ancient documents with an obvious reference to Isaiah 61:1-3. The scroll identifies someone who "... will heal the wounded, and revive the dead and bring good news to the poor." It is clear that at least some of the authors of these documents clearly understood the central nature and ministry of the coming Messiah, most certainly based on their intimate knowledge of the prophetic writings in the Tenach (OT)...that ministry, resurrection of the dead. This reality of the resurrection of Jesus and His power to raise the dead cannot be overestimated. Death is the inevitable result of sin. Jesus became sin, bearing all of it in His body, and then was raised from death to eternal immortal glory. This wonderful fact has proliferated throughout the world, the most important and powerful message ever delivered to mankind. An illustration from our own time reveals the pervasive hope of Messiah's resurrection and victory over death. I tried to Search the Gospels to find a funeral sermon given by Jesus, but unfortunately my search was in vain. Instead of ministering at funerals, Jesus broke up every funeral he ever attended! Death could not exist where He was. And when the dead heard His voice they sprang to life, for He truly is "the resurrection and the life." Brothers & Sisters, are you feeling dead and worn out today? Then be reminded that your Savior is Life and that He brings it abundantly wherever He is, and that death is overcome in His Presence. So GET IN HIS PRESENCE! Repent, pray, worship, read, dance, delight, intercede, seek Him with all your heart and soul. His Life is waiting to refresh, restore, and revive you. EMBRACE THE POWER OF RESURRECTION & THE LIFE!

"Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemedHim stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed."Isaiah 53:4-5 ; "But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone."Hebrews 2:9 ; "looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."Hebrews 12:2 ; "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."Romans 8:16-18

When I studied Isaiah 53, I was taken back by the Hebrew word for "afflicted". In modern Hebrew this word means "tortured". When I was young, and first learned what torture actually involved, my soul was shocked that this could happen to people; in fact that it was happening to people. That a person could be kept alive for the purpose of intentionally causing him intense agonizing pain was an astounding enigma for my young soul. It really frightened me; and I think that fear of torture is probably the greatest fear that humans can experience. We read about people who have been tortured, with a kind of horrified awe. And quietly we wonder inside, "How can this be?" And, "Could this ever happen to me?" Crucifixion was a form of torture which the ancient Romans used frequently. And while I had a concept of the suffering that our Messiah endured for us, for some reason the understanding that He was tortured for our iniquities brought my awareness to a new level. I did not begin to appreciate or fathom the suffering Jesus went through. His identification with our suffering and our sin was total, and His experience of this torture so fully absorbed Him that He experienced what must have felt like infinite isolation and pain. Somehow, this is a deep comfort; to know that the Son of God understands by experience, torture and suffering unthinkable. But then, I suddenly realized that I also could not begin to comprehend the glory that awaited Him after His suffering. And that His suffering purchased for me a portion in that glory as well. It was the other side of the story, and somehow, these two extremes complement one another; suffering, and glory. The apostle Paul states his revelation about our sufferings with almost light-hearted conviction; that they are not even "worthy" to be compared with the glory that awaits us. This, to me, could be the most amazing promise in all of scripture. Brothers & Sisters, suffering is everywhere, a constant part of this life; it may be you, or someone you love, or people you don't even know but are agonizing over and praying for. This world casts suffering in every direction at every level of intensity. But all of it, every flaming ounce of it has been successfully absorbed into the body of Jesus the Messiah. He was tortured for us – suffered death for us – so that our sufferings are trifles in the light of eternity. It's been said this way: from heaven the most miserable earthly life will look like one bad night in a cheap hotel. Thank the Lord. HE UNDERSTANDS OUR SUFFERING MORE THAN YOU KNOW!

"And Peter answered Him and said, Lord, if it is you, command me to come to You on the water. And He said, "Come." And when Peter got out out of the boat, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand, and caught him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"Matthew 14:28-31

When Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water – he literally stepped out of the boat! Imagine that! But was Peter going overboard? No, I don't believe so -- he was literally taking a step of faith with his eyes fixed on the Lord! Often, when we step out in faith – it may appear that we are going overboard, but are we really? Honestly, the question is -- "Can you really go overboard in your faith toward God?" I don't think so! When our passion is no longer on the Lord, then that's when we're going overboard. Brothers & Sisters, when you love the Lord God with "all your heart, mind and soul"-- it's okay to step out and go all out for God -- because in God, the only way to go overboard is to not go overboard enough! ARE YOU GOING OVERBOARD?

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."John 16:33

In this world we will face all kinds of obstacles, trials and tribulations and we should be wary of any doctrines or teachings that say we shouldn’t have to face these things. Why? Because the Lord said we will have tribulations. So the encouragement He is giving is simply this: You’re going to face trials, but GOD is greater than any problem you will face in this world! As problems present themselves, we should face them in the power of God and overcome them with Him -– because every problem is an opportunity to exhibit the love and power of God in our lives. And it’s often through these situations that the world gets our true testimony as believers in Him! Brothers & Sisters, so, lift up your head, and don’t expect "no obstacles" in this life. Continue looking up, and be filled with His joy, because the Lord has already overcome this world and our problems, and we will experience that when we simply give them over to Him! YOU WILL FACE PROBLEMS, BUT THERE'S GOOD NEWS!

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.”Matthew 7:7-8

Jesus made it clear: In prayer, we are to ask, seek, knock, confident that what we need and ask for will be given to us. But the opposite also is true. If we don’t ask, what we need will not be given to us. If we don’t seek, we will not find. The reality is that, if we never knock, the door never will open. We can stare at the door but nothing will change. And if we don’t seek, we will be stuck in the same position. If we never show initiative, we never will find what we are interested in, or would like to have. There may be many reasons why we don’t ask or aren’t more specific in prayer. We may not feel worthy, or embarrassed, concerned about what God would think if we asked. We may not feel that God would hear us, or confident in our relationship with Him. Or we may feel we don’t know how to ask. But, no matter our excuse, we can be sure not to receive anything if we don’t ask, seek, or knock. How confident are you about your relationship with God? Do you really think that, if you ask, it will be given? That if you seek, you really will find? If you knock, the door really will be opened for you? What keeps you from believing these truths? Brothers & Sisters remember that without faith, you will not receive the answers you need or find what you are looking for. Don’t be bogged down with lethargy or skepticism. And don’t be hampered by doubt or reluctance. Instead, take Jesus at His Word, confident in Him. Believing that His Word is true.