The Battle For Your Promised Land

Victoria Boyson:

The Battle For Your Promised Land

From the desk of Steve Shultz:
I hardly know anyone who HASN'T gone through a tough battle this year. Let's face it, it's been an intensely hard year for many. BUT there is a reason for our battles – without them we wouldn't have victory as Victoria Boyson shares here. You need this word and make sure you pass it on to others... it's a must-read for all.


I woke up from a dream and felt the presence of the Lord all over me. In the dream, God told me 2 tell His children to: "Believe for more from God."

The Lord said that we, as His Church, do not believe for enough. We expect less because we're afraid to fully trust in His power. God wants us 2 pursue the miraculous – 2 believe for greater works from Him. He wants 2 show the world what He is capable of and needs us 2 believe for more – not just for ourselves, but 2 display His power 2 the lost. He wants 2 reveal His power 2 the world!

The world is becoming increasingly more cynical about the things of God, having greater faith in "science" than in Him. He wants us 2 change that.

Too hard, u say? That's why He wants us 2 expect more from Him.

The Purpose of the Battle

Many see the increased wickedness of the world we live in and say, "Yep, this is just the way it's gonna be. We can't stop it. The world gets darker every day." But this isn't the first time that darkness has increased. If u look at history u see in many societies darkness has increased and tried 2 destroy the works of God. But instead of allowing the enemy 2 have his way, they stood their ground and fought for the genuine power of God. We must fight for God's power in our own personal lives, the Church and also the world.

We've often misunderstood the purpose of our battles. Battles are not meant 2 just cause us tribulation, but bring victory. We cannot have victory without a battle. When God sent the children of Israel 2 take their promised land, they had 2 fight for it. Yes, it was theirs, but they had 2 step out and take it – they had 2 battle their enemies for it. It was theirs by faith, and the battle was their pathway 2 possessing the promise God gave them.

The children of Israel had already spent 400 years in slavery and 40 years in the desert – they had suffered a lot. So, u may think the promised land for them meant a vacation from their suffering. Yet, it was then God put them 2 work. They didn't just walk into the promised land and set up house. No. They had 2 fight for it. They incurred one battle after another, but they knew every battle they faced meant more victory – more blessing.

When the children of Israel entered the promised land of Canaan God gave them victory over every foe they encountered. The reputation of Israel's God so terrified the inhabitants of Canaan that five kings from the southern region decided 2 band together 2 fight them, but were sorely defeated. And in Joshua 11, believing their only hope of defeating Israel was in a massive united force, 31 kings from the northern regions of Canaan came against Israel with all their might. Their great armies banded together 2 fight them, and were a formidable force. Still, though 31 armies strong, they stood no chance against the God of Israel. Through a clear and decisive victory on the battlefield, Joshua slaughtered all the other kings and their people, utterly destroying them all.

We can look around us at the wickedness of our generation and think hopeless thoughts of defeat. But is that what God desires of us? Are we supposed 2 just lay back and let the world fall 2 pieces? I don't think so. I think, especially in this day, God wants 2 show the world His power. Like Egypt in the days of Moses, they will see it and recognize He is the one true God.

God desires 2 pour out His Spirit in a mighty way – 2 demonstrate 2 masses of people just how powerful He truly is. Without a demonstration of His power, those who have been led astray by the anti-Christ spirit prevalent in today's society may not have a chance 2 choose Him. This is simply bcoz they have not been given the opportunity 2 know Him as He truly is.

Do they know He is a God who loves, heals and delivers? God wants them 2 know His power and who He is. We must step out in faith and fight the battle 2 reveal His power to the world.

"My great glory will be displayed through [the battle u face]. When My glory is displayed through them, all [the world] will see My glory and know that I Am the Lord!" Exodus 14:17-18 (NLT)

Revival is Coming.

As the Church, we should be preparing all our people for another great awakening. This preparation is key 2 the success of God's last outpouring, because we need warriors 2 fight for the souls of men – those who will expect victory in every battle.

Revival is coming. God is not done yet. He is sending His Spirit once again 2 penetrate the darkness and rescue those who will believe in Him. We have 2 prepare for it. We have 2 expect it. We must align our hearts with His in order 2 prepare for victory.

If we do not expect God 2 act, we will not prepare, and if we do not prepare, we will suffer great loss. Ask the Lord, "What do You want us 2 do 2 prepare?" Then, follow Him closely and trust Him completely – lean on His wisdom, not on your own (see Proverbs 3:5) and you will have a great victory. Obey His leading and do not deviate from His council (see Joshua 1:7).

We need 2 shake off passivity and BELIEVE He needs us – each one of us. We are not destined 2 just sit in a pew – no one is. We are called of God 2 prepare His people 2 display His power and love – 2 know Him and teach those who want Him. The Lord is coming again, and He will come for ALL who want 2 know Him – He doesn't want anyone left out. We must prepare ourselves for this – we must prepare 2 reap a mighty harvest before His return.

Preparing for Victory

So, pastors and church leaders, intercessors and teachers, prophets and evangelists, mothers and fathers, tell those under your care 2 prepare themselves. Now is the time 2 get ready – we do not have much time left. We must focus, train and build, for His Kingdom is coming 2 this generation and we must stay vigilant – not doubt – expect. For, God wants 2 reveal His power as He did in the days of the exodus from Egypt (see Exodus 3:19-22). Follow Him and u will defeat your enemies.

Remember the fields God talked about in Luke 10:2? "The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So, pray 2 the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask Him 2 send more workers into His fields." The fields are white and we need laborers. God needs YOU! So, get ready... revival is coming. Victory is coming. The battle for the lost is at hand and u are needed. The kings will attack, bringing us another great victory for God's Kingdom.

Have no fear, believe for more! God wants 2 pour out His power!

"Go through the camp and tell the people to get their provisions ready..." (Joshua 1:11). It's time 2 battle for your Promised Land.

Victoria Boyson
Speaking Life Ministries
Email: victoria@boyson.org

Jeff Jansen:

The 30 Year Word of the "End Time Army of God" is Coming to Pass

 

Bob Jones' 1979 Vision of the Sands of Time

As all of us are already aware, we are in a season of great ups and downs in the nations of the earth. There are great uncertainties of our time which cause great tensions due to the lack of clarity for the future. At the same time, we are in one of the most spiritually pivotal and progressive seasons we've been in for a long time. All can feel the spiritual tectonic plates ready to give way to a season of the new on many levels, including revival. Wherever there are great tensions, there is great power.

All this being said, there are prophetic meters that have been given to us to measure where we are at in these times through credible voices – and without a doubt, one of the most constant of these credible voices I know, unarguably, is Bob Jones. For many decades now, Bob Jones has accurately brought the word of the Lord to churches, cities, regions and leaders globally with detailed accuracy. Before us there is a 30-year word from Bob that is getting ready to come to pass, which I feel is most urgent – we need to hear it and understand it as it will encourage many. In short, here it is:

Back in January of 1979, the Lord took Bob into a vision to a place by the sea and called it the "Sands of Time." Bob said he saw great leaders, apostles and prophets that were representatives in their generations sticking their hands down into the sands to bring up what looked like old shoe boxes. As each one did, Bob could hear them say, "Is this the time? ...Are the promises for now?" With each of the leaders there was nothing in the box, as the promises weren't for their generation.

Then the Lord told Bob to reach down into the sands of time to pull up a box, but Bob said, "Lord, they are all empty," but the Lord told Bob to open up the shoe box anyway. As Bob opened his box he was surprised to see draft notices in it. They said, "Greetings, you have been drafted into the Army of God." Then the Lord told Bob:

"I will begin to send these letters out to My leaders when it costs twenty cents to mail a letter." At the time of the vision, it cost only eleven cents to mail a letter; no one ever thought that the price would go up again. But on October 13, 1981, it cost twenty cents to mail a letter and the Lord said:

"Everyone that was conceived, that was in the womb, or nine months prior was literally the army of God. The first would be leaders and the second would be the greatest army that nothing could ever stop, and when they reach the age of maturity I am going to begin to release them in power. I will arm them out of My armory in Heaven. There is no gift that I will deny them. They will literally pull down the warehouse of God and they will have no fear of the enemy. They will glorify Me beyond anything that has ever been. They will represent Me in My holiness and compassion."

The Age of Maturity

October 13, 2011, will mark thirty years from the date. The age of 30 is representative of the age of maturity. When Jesus was about to begin His public ministry He made His way to the river Jordan where John was baptizing. We know that Jesus is the Word of God for the Scriptures clearly tell us:

"In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself... He came into the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him [did not know Him]. He came to that which belonged to Him [to His own – His dominion, creation, things, world] and they who were His own did not receive Him and did not welcome Him" (John 1:1; 10-11, AMP).

As a young man growing up, Jesus grew in favor with both God and man. He was subjected to His mother and Joseph as long as He was under age. He was still the Son of God, but was under the guidance of another and directly responsible to His guardians. This Greek word for "Son" is called "Teknon," which is a relationship formed between people by the bonds of love, friendship and trust, just as between parents and children. It is used as an affectionate address ("my child") by patrons, helpers, teachers, etc. Pupils and disciples are called "children" of their teachers, because the teachers' instruction nourishes the minds of their pupils and molds their character.

This was the relationship with Jesus and His mother at the wedding feast in Galilee. They ran out of wine and Mary, Jesus' mother, told Him to do something about it. He told her plainly that it was not His time yet. She then, realizing that it was about to be His time of introduction to the world, told the servants, "Whatever HE says do it." It was no longer what she said. And this was the beginning of His public ministry. However, before He entered His public ministry He first needed to step into a place of maturity as a Son:

"In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when He came up out of the water, at once he [John] saw the heavens torn open and the [Holy] Spirit like a dove coming down [to enter] into Him. And there came a voice out from within Heaven, 'You are My Beloved Son; in You I am well pleased'" (Mark 1:9:11, AMP).

The word used here to describe "You are My Beloved Son" is the Greek word "Huios," which means "mature" or "full grown." When Jesus stepped down into the Jordan River He did as the Word of God, but as yet a "Teknon" son or child. Through the waters of baptism He rose up and John saw the heavens torn open and the Holy Spirit like a dove coming down (to enter) into Him and "rest upon Him." And there came a voice out of Heaven saying, "You are My Beloved Son (Huios – Mature One); in You I am well pleased."

This end time Army of God is coming of age in this season in preparation for what I believe will be one of the greatest revivals to ever sweep the world. Like Jesus did, they are reaching an "Age of Maturity," being baptized both by the Word and the Spirit. He went down into the waters of baptism in the Jordan River as the Word of God, and when He came up the Spirit of God filled Him and He came out that day a mature Huios Son of God. Word and Spirit came together. We've had many incredible moves of God in our day that have impacted cities, states, regions and even nations, but there is coming a mature family of Sons on the earth, a Glory Generation that will be so filled with the Word and Spirit of God it will usher in the greatest End Time Revival the world will ever see.

1947 Smith Wigglesworth Prophecy

In 1947 Smith Wigglesworth prophesied that the Great Revival would come through a generation of Believers when the Word and Spirit came together. Here is this word in its unedited form:

"During the next few decades there will be two distinct moves of the Holy Spirit across the church in Great Britain. The first move will affect every church that is open to receive it and will be characterized by a restoration of the baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit. The second move of the Holy Spirit will result in people leaving historic churches and planting new churches. In the duration of each of these moves, the people who are involved will say, 'This is the great revival.' But the Lord says, 'No, neither is this the great revival, but both are steps towards it.

"When the new church phase is on the wane, there will be evidenced in the churches something that has not been seen before: a coming together of those with an emphasis on the Word and those with an emphasis on the Spirit.

"When the Word and the Spirit come together, there will be the biggest movement of the Holy Spirit that the nation, and indeed the world, has ever seen. It will mark the beginning of a revival that will eclipse anything that has been witnessed within these shores, even the Wesleyan and the Welsh revivals of former years. The outpouring of God's Spirit will flow over from the UK to the mainland of Europe, and from there will begin a missionary move to the ends of the earth."

Smith prophesied this in 1947. Since then, we've seen many wonderful revivals and moves of God. However, I believe this next move of God will be an outpouring of the very Presence of God manifest in and through an end time Army of God that are mature in both Word and Spirit. It will result in global harvest and global revival with mass evangelism, corporate miracles, healings, signs and wonders never witnessed before. We are being prepared to see Heaven unleashed on the earth in proportions never witnessed before. Millions will come to Christ through supernatural explosions of the glory of God and a harvest of harvesters will emerge. We are in the season of the new, and now is the time that this army of dread champions will arise.

The Church is waking up. It's time for the End Time Army of God 2 arise!

Jeff Jansen
Global Fire Ministries International
Email: jeffjansen@globalfireministries.com

Miracles are Real

Miracles are Real and They Happen More Often Than We Realize Teresa Neumann (December 28, 2011) "God alone can go beyond the laws of the natural world by superseding the known laws of nature. Such miracles are an appetizer course for the main meal that is the Kingdom becoming present in the future." -Pastor James Garlow (San Francisco, CA) - James "Jim" Garlow, senior pastor of Skyline Wesleyan Church and author of Miracles are for Real: What Happens When Heaven Touches Earth contends that people often miss the reality of miracles. His experience with miracles is a personal one. His wife of 40 years made an astounding and unexpected comeback from liver cancer. Today, according to a Christian Post report, she is cancer free. (Photo: Jim Garlow) In general, Garlow believes there are two camps when it comes to believing in miracles:  Skeptics, those who "have an inborn arrogance based on the idea that if they don't believe in miracles, they can't occur," and Christians who often "label things as miracles" too quickly. However, the end result of miracles, says Garlow, "is always making God's glory known to saints and sinners alike." The bottom line is that miracles can be happening around us and we don't realize it because we're looking for something else. For example, says Garlow, "The way in which faith can follow us through all of life's changes." Keeping one's faith through decades of decades of trials and challenges constitutes a miracle because it makes God's glory known to others. The take home message? Keep your eyes open for miracles that point to Christ and let them inspire and motivate you to further God's Kingdom. Source: Mark Hensch - The Christian Post

The Call of the Lord

Wade Taylor:

The Call of the Lord

Deep Calls to Deep

Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of Thy waterspouts: all Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over me. Psalm 42:7

"Deep calls to deep." Our Lord is a seeking God who is constantly searching for those who will respond 2 His desire for communion and fellowship ("Behold, I stand at the door, and knock..." Revelation 3:20).

Therefore, by "divine intent," we were created with the capacity t2 hear and respond 2 this desire of the Lord for fellowship and communion. As we respond in anticipation, we will be lifted into the realm in which we will be able t2say with David:

One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, 2 behold the beauty of the Lord, and 2 inquire in His temple. Psalm 27:4

If we truly desire 2 experience this higher realm of personal relationship with the Lord, in which our times of being set apart 2 enter into His presence become more important 2 us than all that we are attempting 2 do for Him, then the Lord will respond and begin the process of separating us 2 Himself.

...And Samuel was laid down 2 sleep; That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, "Here am I." And he ran unto Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou calledst me." And he said, "I called not; lie down again." And he went and lay down. And the Lord called yet again, "Samuel." And Samuel arose and went 2 Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou didst call me." And he answered, "I called not, my son; lie down again." Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord yet revealed 2 him. I Samuel 3:3-7

And the Lord called Samuel again the 3rd time. And he arose and went 2 Eli, and said, "Here am I; for thou didst call me." And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child. Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, "Go, lie down: and it shall be, if He call thee, that thou shalt say, 'Speak, Lord; for Thy servant heareth.'" So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, "Samuel, Samuel." Then Samuel answered, "Speak; for Thy servant heareth." I Samuel 3:8-10

There was a learning process in which Samuel was brought 2 the place he could separate the voice of the Lord from other voices. We also must go through a similar time of preparation.

Understanding His Voice

"At the noise of Your waterspouts..." In the initial stages of our being apprehended by the Lord, we are not yet able 2 understand His voice, nor do we have the understanding 2 rightly relate 2 His dealings. Thus, this "seeking voice of the Lord" may seem 2 us as being a "noise."

The Lord so desires 2 hear from us, that although our response may sound 2 Him as being a "noise," He will continue 2 knock upon the door of our spirit until our response becomes a "song" of worship and love, and we are able 2 enter into His chambers 2 commune with Him.

Therefore, 2 bring us into the place where the Lord would have us, He must first reduce or remove all else from us, until we can enter the place where we have a single desire toward Him and are willing 2 trust the deep inner dealings and workings of the Holy Spirit.

Responding 2 the "Knock" on the Door of our Spirit

"All Your waves and Your billows are gone over me." It is very difficult for us 2 come 2 this place of implicit trust in responding 2 the presence of the Holy Spirit as the power of "self-preservation" is very strong within each of us. Thus, there is a reward for us 2 come 2 this place of reduction until the Lord becomes 2 us all in all.

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 5:3

Even when we make mistakes, if our heart attitude toward the Lord is right, He will continue 2 draw us 2 Himself, knowing that we will gradually come 2 understand His voice and ways. As a result, any seeming "noise" that we presently hear will become a song of rejoicing and worship.

This "song" that the Lord so desires 2 hear is unique 2 our personal life experience. No one else could ever sing this song, as they have not walked as we have. The Lord will look 2 us ("Deep calls...") as if we were the only person in the universe, for He greatly desires 2 hear this song.

We should thank our Lord quite often for His patience with us, in waiting for the song that He so desires 2 hear. This desire is so intense that He will continue 2 patiently wait.

When Adam failed the Lord in the Garden of Eden, he hid from His presence. It was the Lord who said, "Adam, where are u?" When Adam responded with his excuse (noise), the Lord took a step toward him, covering him with the skin of an animal, that their fellowship might be restored. This was the first blood sacrifice for sin. Adam and Eve are now covered "externally" and forgiven, but this must become an "inner" reality.

In the parable of the sower, Matthew chapter 13, the sower goes forth with "seed:"

"...Behold, a sower went forth to sow." Matthew 13:3

The Word tells us that this seed is the "Word of the Kingdom." As we rightly respond 2 produce "good soil," this seed will gradually develop, and the "noise" will have become a clear pathway that leads 2 the Kingdom.

He answered and said unto them, "Because it is given unto u 2 know the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, but 2 them it is not given." Matthew 13:11

In the Book of Revelation, it is the Lord who stands at the door, knocking, in order 2 seek out those who will hear and respond. He is far more interested in us than we are in Him. This may be hard for us 2 believe, but it is true.

All that we need do is 2 become quiet and listen and the Lord will direct us 2 Himself.

When we respond 2 this "knock" on the door of our spirit, we will be brought up into His presence where our life will become one with His, in communion and purpose.

"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in 2 him, and will sup with him, and he with Me..." After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in Heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, "Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter." And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in Heaven, and one sat on the throne. Revelation 3:20, 4:1-2

Notice that the "door" did not open until John "looked," which led him 2b seated with the Lord in His throne.

The Noise has Indeed Become a Song

To him that overcometh will I grant 2 sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne. Revelation 3:21

One of our primary purposes in life should be 2 reflect the life and desire of the One who is seated upon His Throne, our Lord Jesus Christ. As we come into this identity in relationship with Him, we will be able 2 sing, "All your waves and billows are gone over me," as our life becomes lost in identity with His life.

Now, we have found the purpose for which we were created. Our song has merged into His song ("Deep calls 2 deep"), and they have become one.  And, the noise has indeed become a song.

Wade E. Taylor
Wade Taylor Ministries
Email: wade@wadetaylor.org

REST...In The Snow

Theresa Phillips:

Rest in the Snow

I just adore it when the Christmas holiday comes! All kinds of visions dance in my head! When they do, I just ask Jesus, "What is this?" Yet, this Christmas I feel a shift... a real shift. I have had "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" as a ring tone for several years, and I also have been singing Christmas Carols with a new revelation. The words "Heavenly Peace" are on my mind from the "Silent Night" Carol. I asked the Lord, "Why I am feeling so, u know... HAPPY?"

"It's in the snow, Theresa," He said. "It's in the snow... Enjoy the rest of the snow. People who don't have snow will also feel the REST OF THE SNOW. When the 'snows' come this year, a revelation will be released!"

Job 37:10 By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen.

As I read this simple Scripture, I noticed my mind wandering all across the world... The Spirit of the Lord started to show me different nations and their celebrations. Again I was HAPPY! Time will stand still and many will gaze upon the beauty of the snow.

I heard singing. I joined in the chorus: "Let earth receive her King; let every heart prepare Him room, and Heaven and nature sing..." Yes, Heaven is always on my mind. I love to share about Eternity; it's our resting place.

Then I saw the giving. The humor. The tears. And the wonder... The young, the old... and me. I saw the poor and needy, and I saw the well-off. All having one thing in common: The need to believe. We are all equal in that. Then He spoke, "Theresa, the world needs to believe, just like Joseph." Then I remembered the Writ:
Mark 9:24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!"

I thought that was to be my Christmas message until... Suddenly, I really felt my spirit soaring, when I saw a very light snow begin to outline the stone wall of our garden. That was when He spoke to me:

"Theresa, rest... as the earth rests beneath the fallen snow. Death has not taken place; it's called resting, so that when the sun (Son) shines once again, new growth will take place and the ground will quake with the sprouting seed. Ready yourself for the quaking of DESTINY!"  I love destiny!

Time to Look for the Blessing

I started to notice tears fall down my cheek when I realized the rest was at hand, and I had not entered that rest when the weight of His glory falls on us, and we abide under the shadow of that breath. I steadied myself and I fell asleep. In a dream, I saw a huge room with all kinds of clothing hanging on many racks. It's every woman's dream closet to have... wonderful clothing sorted by designs and colors. It was wonderful and easy on the eyes to pick out what u may desire to wear.

At the end of the room I saw an ancient mailbox hanging on the wall. Many who were in the room with me noticed it; they became afraid, saying some sort of evil was lurking around the corner. I was at peace. I placed my hand on the mailbox; it was rusty and fragile. Then I heard a voice say to me, "Just believe, Theresa, and receive the blessing." I looked about me; no one had heard it. But I knew now is not the time to look for evil (things are not as they seem), it was time to look for the blessing.

I looked at the box; inside that mailbox was NOTHING! Ha! That ancient mailbox existed by undisturbed grace... Untouched, it just was... resting. People were afraid of nothing. That is why I had peace. Then He spoke again, "Theresa, all u see here is for the asking and the receiving and the giving; I am a good Father, and I give good things to My children (see Luke 11:13). Tell My people to rest in Me, to abide in KNOWING I am the Divine. Let them know there is nothing 2 fear. I am the Redeemer; I live 2 pray 4 u."
I started to sing, "God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing u dismay. Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas day; to save us all from satan's power when we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy..."

Merry Christmas, World! Jesus loves u!    Here I am, Lord. Send me!

Theresa Phillips
Chicago Prophetic Voice
Email: info@ChicagoPropheticVoice.net

Is Your Self-Control Out of Control?

Kathi Pelton:

Is Your Self-Control Out of Control?

But the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Forbearance, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. Galatians 5:22-23

Although all of the fruit of the Spirit mentioned above are important, I sometimes wonder if the last one mentioned is the one that many have "settled for less" in pursuing. Interestingly, it is very difficult 2 cultivate any of the other fruits of the Spirit in our lives without self-control. Can I love well if my temper is out of control? Can I have true joy if I allow my flesh to be out of control? I surely can't have peace if I have no self-control, let alone forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and gentleness. All must be cultivated in the "soil" of a self-controlled life.

The Value of Self-Control

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and u will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that u are not to do whatever u want. But if u are led by the Spirit, u are not under the law. Galatians 5:16-18

Our flesh is deceptive, and its desires cause the people of God numerous temptations. It is so easy to give into temporary satisfaction without considering the long term cost these temporary gratifications demand. There is an ongoing battle that all men and women face each and every day between the flesh and the Spirit. The good news is that even though the flesh demands our "work" to control it, the Spirit – when we allow ourselves to be led and dependent upon Him – gives us all that we need to resist temptation and to submit to what is true and what is good for our lives. Self-control comes only through dependency upon the Spirit.

The flesh is restless. It wants control of our lives. There is restlessness in the lives of so many individuals – not only within those who do not know the Lord, but also within the Body of Christ. We all desire comfort, satisfaction and nurturing. God put that need within us and He is happy to satisfy those longings with His Spirit; but it does not happen outside of intimate relationship with Him. We must let the Holy Spirit lead us and comfort us.

Getting Honest and Personal

I never feel it is honest to write these kinds of articles without including my personal journey, since more often than not my writings come from something the Lord is trying to teach me first. My personal struggle with self-control (or the lack of it) has been in the area of taking care of my body. I tend to be the type of person who takes care of everyone but me. And, though that is true, it may also be an excuse to not have to deal with an area where I've allowed my flesh to rule. The price I am paying for this negligence is beginning to affect my daily life. I, too, desperately need to let the Spirit comfort me and nurture me so that I am not "self comforting" by escaping into the pleasure of something good to eat.

No matter what our struggle, any activity we use to comfort ourselves can become an area that the flesh is declaring victory over the Spirit in our lives. It is time for your spirit and my spirit to arise and declare victory over the works of the flesh and the demands that it puts upon us. Its relentless demand and deception is the greatest cause of the restlessness that so many deal with.

I remember hearing a minister's testimony of declaring victory over her addiction to smoking cigarettes even as she lit one up. Day after day she smoked, but as she did she would thank God that she was delivered from her addiction. Gradually she stopped smoking and saw the victory that she saw in the Spirit manifest in her life. She refused to let her flesh dictate what the Spirit was telling her she had victory over. I think that many of us need to do the same thing with our struggles. He is the giver of self-control. Maybe self-control partly looks like agreeing with Him regarding what He says He is delivering us from. I will exercise self-control by not agreeing with the declaration of my flesh as it has shouted claims of victory. And as much as possible, it is important to invite others into your journey to stand with u as u contend for victory.

I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Arise With Hope

If I had one wish for Christmas day, it would be that the children of God would let the Spirit lead them so that they can have the gift of self-control. Fortunately, I not only can wish this but I can pray and declare this. It can start with me and u! This Christmas we can give Jesus a gift of dependency and declarations of His Word. He longs to see us free. Just as a parent wants to see their child free from all hindrances that bring pain into their lives, so does our Heavenly Father. He is happy to share this gift with us because it is a joint effort of our submission and His strength.

Arise with hope in your heart and begin to declare the victory of your deliverance over every area where your flesh has led u to believe u are defeated. Neither the devil nor our flesh will be able to prosper in a heart that seeks and longs for the fruit of the Spirit. Declare even now over your life the words from Isaiah 54:

"...no weapon forged against u will prevail, and u will refute every tongue that accuses u. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me." Isaiah 54:17

I encourage u to read and declare the truths of all of Isaiah 54 over your lives. I have begun doing this, and although the enemy comes to try to discourage us in this, do not stop or give up! We must walk in the authority given to us in Christ Jesus. Though the enemy has worked overtime to steal the fruit of self-control in our lives, the Spirit is inviting us into His fruit orchard to eat of this fruit and have it manifest in our lives.

Rather than another "New Year's" resolution, how about entering into a Holy Spirit agreement and declaration that we have obtained freedom? Whom the Son sets free is free indeed!

Blessings upon u and your family this Christmas, and I pray that 2012 will begin with testimonies of "songs of deliverances" coming from God's people.

Happy Holidays from our home to yours,
Kathi Pelton

Compassion Arise
Email: jkpelton@sbcglobal.net
Kathi Pelton has a passion to encourage, uplift and serve. As well as being a published writer she has traveled extensively with Watchmen for the Nations, spoken at conferences, been a member of a national prophetic round-table and co-directed a house of prayer. Her favorite pastime is to spend time with her husband and children.

Children Learn What They Live

Where U C Injustice

Francis Frangipane:

Where You See Injustice - Ask God for His Kingdom to Manifest

 

We live in unparalleled times. Not since the first century have more Scriptures been fulfilled in a single generation. Each unfolding Word brings down another mountain; it lifts another valley. In truth, the way is being prepared 4 our King's return into this world.

The Great Revolt

The Lord forewarned that, during the End Time, "many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase" (Daniel 12:4). Contrast our time w/any other in history: Not only are we traveling farther and more frequently, but we do so in a world inundated w/increasing knowledge. It has been our privilege 2 behold the prophetic return of Israel 2 its land (see Jeremiah 16:14-15), and our misfortune 2 live when "the earth is... polluted by its inhabitants" (Isaiah 24:5).

As though Jesus were reading a news summary of recent years, His prophecies of 2,000 years ago clearly describe our times. Thus, we are compelled 2 discern accurately the significant era in which we live. Indeed, of the many prophetic fulfillments of our day, one in particular rises w/undimmed candor. I am speaking of what the Bible calls the "apostasy." You will recall Paul's warning:

"Let no one in any way deceive u, 4 [the day of the Lord] will not come unless the apostasy comes first" (2 Thessalonians 2:3).

The apostasy has traditionally been described as a time of deception and massive falling away from authentic faith in Christ. Depending upon your specific view, sometime b4 or after the apostasy the rapture of the Church will occur. However, the concept of apostasy as merely "a falling away" is incomplete. The original Greek word 4 apostasy, apostasia, when used in classical Greek literature, meant "a political revolt." From this we understand that the End Time apostasy is not just a time of sinfulness or large scale backsliding; it is actually a time of open defiance and warlike aggression against divine moral foundations. In other words, the apostasia is a political insurrection against the laws of God.

This interpretation of the apostasy is not an isolated view. The New International Version, Revised Standard Version, Phillips Translation, and New English Bible all render apostasia as "the rebellion." The Living Bible interprets the apostasy as the "great rebellion," while the Jerusalem Bible assigns a proper name 2 this era: "The Great Revolt."

As we consider the fulfillment of so many other prophecies, let us carefully observe: mankind has entered an era of open revolt and outright rebellion – an apostasy – against the moral standards of God.

Today, we are witnessing a large-scale rebellion against godliness and moral values. Indeed, this brazen attitude has had a name 4 itself since the 1960s: the sexual revolution. And "revolution" is exactly what it is. Our moral standards have not only been challenged, they have been replaced by a nonstandard. Indeed, the great rebellion seeks 2 legitimize and then mainstream every perversity known 2 man!

There is much 2 say on behalf of those trapped in perversity and who hate sin's affect on their lives. We must be compassionate toward them and not strident; many are sitting in our churches afraid 2 even speak of their need lest they be disowned. I am not speaking w/reference 2 the victims of this advance, but of those who are engaged in a mutiny against the sway of God in our nation. They argue the only standard Americans have is the standard of individual freedom. In their view, freedom itself is the "god" ruling America, w/self-indulgence sitting as chief counsel.

Yet, the God of Heaven desires the nations of the world. Though the apostasy will certainly intensify, we must remember it is only one of many prophecies unfolding in our day. The same Divine Word that warned of the Great Rebellion also assures us that ultimately God's Kingdom shall crush the demonic influences in our world (see Daniel 2:44).

Yes, evil shall mature into full rebellion, but good is also ripening into full Christlikeness! (See Matthew 13:40-43; John 17:22-23.) True, the apostasy shall reveal the nature of satan, but the true Church shall manifest the nature of Christ! Our King is not only coming in the skies, He is coming "2b glorified in His saints on that day, and 2b marveled at among all who have believed" (2 Thessalonians 1:10). What seems 2b satan's hour, full of darkness and rebellion, is simply the opportunity 4 grace 2 abound 2 the glory of God in the Church!

Seated with Christ!

The Second Psalm, perhaps more than any other Bible text, accurately portrays the spirit of our time. Indeed, it also proclaims our correct response 2 satan's bold advance. Although it was quoted by the early Church (see Acts 4:25-26), God has set its full realization 4 the end of this age.

"Why are the nations in an uproar and the peoples devising a vain thing? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers take counsel together against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us tear their fetters apart and cast away their cords from us!'" (Psalm 2:1-3).

Although "the rebellion" reveals itself worldwide in many ways, in America many of our leaders have certainly been counseling together "against the Lord" in their decisions. We see it in the legal protection offered the gay movement and the shelter provided 4 satanic rock music. Again, our anti-censorship laws, like armor plating, have been established 2 defend sin against the Lord, shielding the perversity of our entertainment industry. The virulent cry of those in rebellion hammers relentlessly upon the fetters of moral restraint!

This railing against God has not gone unnoticed in Heaven. Is the Almighty confounded? Has fear concerning recent developments gripped the Lord's heart? No. The Psalm continues,

"He who sits in the heavens laughs, the Lord scoffs at them. Then He will speak to them in His anger and terrify them in His fury" (Psalm 2:4-5).

The Lord laughs at the foolishness of those in full revolt, as they imagine God's judgments cannot reach them. Why then, u ask, does the Lord delay His full judgment? In part, the Lord waits 4 us, His Church. For while the world shall demand, and receive, the reign of Hell, the goal of the praying Church shall be 4 the reign of Heaven. You C, all of God's prophecies shall be fulfilled: those concerning evil and also those concerning righteousness. The Lord has purposed 2 have a "Bride w/o spot or wrinkle" and a "Kingdom" of wheat w/o tares. The transformation of the Church will be fulfilled as surely as every other prophecy occurring b4 the Lord's return.

Thus, w/great fear and holy trembling, we must review what God has promised concerning us. Let us remember, the Lord is not alone in the heavens. According 2 His Word, He has "seated us w/Him in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 2:6). It is time 4 our identity as Christians 2 shift. Our nationalities only define our ambassador status; our true citizenship is in Heaven (see Philippians 3:20). And if God is laughing at the mocking of those in the rebellion, let us also, as His subjects, share His confidence!

Thus, He commands us 2 sit w/Him in the completeness of His purpose. He requires us not only 2 live w/o fear but 2 stand in prayer 4 these very nations that defy Him!

Listen again 2 this Second Psalm, 4 in the very context of worldwide rebellion against the Lord, it records the most remarkable discourse: "Ask of Me," the Father says the Son, "and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, and the very ends of the earth as Your possession" (Psalm 2:8).

When I first came 2 Christ in 1970, Churches in America were deeply divided and rather cold in organized prayer. Today, leaders of denominations are working together, and it is estimated that more than a quarter of a million American Churches are moving toward deeper unity and increased prayer 4 this nation. Jesus has asked the Father 4 the United States, and in response, the prayer movement has been born!

As Christ's Church, we do not deserve a national revival, but Jesus does! As His representatives, in His name and virtue, we ask of the Father 4 America! More than an expression of faith, our prayer is actually an act of obedience: We are commanded 2 ask God 4 the nations!

Therefore, while the perverse strive toward complete rejection of God, even as their mocking words fill the air, the Almighty's unchangeable promise 2 His Son (and by extension, His Church as Christ's Body) is "Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations!''

As violence, New Age religions and witchcraft flourish in our schools, ask God 4 this nation. While all restraint is removed from the entertainment industry, ask God 4 this nation! While perversity dresses in normalcy, ask God 4 America! While abortion remains protected by laws, ask God w/confidence, w/ boldness, and w.faith 4 our land! Where u C injustice in any form, ask God 4 His Kingdom 2 manifest on earth!

"He who sits in the heavens laughs."

Put away fear and discouragement; repent of fretting. The more we accept our place in the divine plan, the more we shall laugh at the enemies' plans. The faith that relentlessly asks God, pleases God. Now, as the fullness of the times unfolds, as the world around us clothes itself in prophetic fulfillments, let us put away unbelief; let us repent 4 withdrawal. It is a time 2 boldly ask of God. As He has promised: He will give the nations as an inheritance 2 Christ!

Let's pray: Lord Jesus, how blessed we are that as evil matures into full rebellion, Your Church matures into full Christlikeness. Teach me 2 pray 4 my inheritance, my nation. Use me 2 stand in the gap until my people become Your people.

Francis Frangipane
Ministries of Francis Frangipane
Email: francis1@frangipane.org