Happy Sunday!
Dr. Bill Winston said, "The Devil has vowed to rob you! But Satan cannot steal what is covered by Faith!" John 10:10 verifies this as Jesus said, "The thief approaches with malicious intent, looking to steal, slaughter, and destroy; I came to give life with joy and abundance."(Voice).
I'd heard that there is a difference between robbery and theft. I revisited the definitions to make sure I was understanding the subtle difference. Robbery is defined as the crime of taking or attempting to take anything of value by force or threat of force or by putting the victim in fear. So in robbery the victim is present. Someone may steal the pink flamingo statue from your yard, but if you were not present when it occurred it is not considered robbery. Makes sense that Malachi 3 says that some people have robbed God! God is always present! He's there when we knowingly and unashamedly disregard his commandments. Malachi 3:8-11 says, "You people are robbing me, your God. And, here you are, asking, “How are we robbing you?” You are robbing me of the offerings and of the ten percent that belongs to me. That’s why your whole nation is under a curse. I am the Lord All-Powerful, and I challenge you to put me to the test. Bring the entire ten percent into the storehouse, so there will be food in my house. Then I will open the windows of heaven and flood you with blessing after blessing. I will also stop locusts from destroying your crops and keeping your vineyards from producing."(Contemporary English Version).
Fast forward to 2016! We are redeemed from the curse because of the sacrifice of Jesus, but being redeemed from the curse does not nullify God's requirements. Tithing was instituted before the law was given to Moses. When Jesus was on earth he said, "But woe to you Pharisees! For though you are careful to tithe even the smallest part of your income, you completely forget about justice and the love of God. You should tithe, YES, but you should not leave these other things undone."(Luke 11:42, Living Bible). So don't throw out tithing, and don't neglect justice and the love of God!
Why is this relevant for us today? Great question! I'm so glad you asked! The enemy is still out to get and keep what rightfully belongs to you! He's crafty! He has figured out how to trick you into letting him keep your stuff! Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge:"(KJV). God's methods are always legal. He gave the earth to Adam, who lost it to Satan, who in turn lost it to Jesus. Jesus has given it to us, but just like the Promised Land...we have to go in and take what belongs to us! The enemy will not give it back without a fight! The Apostle Paul knew this and said, "Fight the good fight of faith,"(1 Timothy 6:12). The only way to recover your inheritance and possessions is to have and use Faith! Romans 10:17 says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."(KJV).
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series, "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Living Large". Genesis 26:12 says, "Isaac planted crops in that land and took in a huge harvest. God blessed him. The man got richer and richer by the day until he was very wealthy."(Message). Did you see that? He got richer by the day! He accumulated wealth! That's what the enemy doesn't want you to do! He's OK with you making a little money, but he doesn't want you to know that God wants you to be rich! Why would the devil want you to stay poor? Why would he want you to keep living just enough for the city? Because he is the thief! If you get your stuff back it comes out of his accounts! Proverbs 6:30-31 says, "People don’t despise a thief who only steals to fill his hunger; Still if they catch him, he must repay seven times over—he could end up losing everything he owns!"(Voice). Did you see that? He could end up losing everything he owns! He wants you to stay in poverty, or just above it and die without the knowledge or understanding of all that is rightfully yours! He has even got ministers preaching against prosperity! Dude, so are you preaching poverty? Proverbs 6:11 says, "But then you sleep and sleep and become poorer and poorer. Soon you will have nothing. It will be as if a thief came and stole everything you owned."(Easy-to-Read Version). Don't sleep on the Devil! This struggle is real! I know what you are thinking, you know someone that turned away from God when they became wealthy. Sure there are bad people who have misused and abused prosperity, but don't throw the baby out with the bath water! Prosperity has a purpose. Jesus commanded us to take the Gospel to the World. You can't even give a thirsty man a bottle of water, unless you have one dollar more than you need for yourself!
Living Large! Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, August 21, 2016
Sunday, August 14, 2016
His Words are Waiting
His Words are Waiting By Barry Bennett
Did you know that God’s Words (His proclamations, promises and covenant blessings) are ‘alive and active’ and waiting to be given an assignment?
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. (Isa. 55:11)
God has spoken about you, over you and for you. His words are eternal and alive. They are like soldiers or servants awaiting their orders. “My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh.” (Prov. 4:20-22)
When we find His words, believe them and then speak them, we are activating the eternal power of those words. Until we speak His words, they remain alive but unassigned. They cannot accomplish their purpose in our lives without our believing hearts declaring those words.
But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:8-9)
Believing and confessing God’s words about Jesus activated salvation and the new birth. There are hundreds of promises (words) waiting for your faith filled declaration in order to go to work in your life. Give God’s words an assignment.
Let it be to me according to your word. (Luke 1:38)
Love and prayers, Cynthia
P.S. - Praying that you had a wonderful week! I always enjoy Barry Bennett. His writing is always on time! I hope that they bless you as well, especially when I miss church!
Did you know that God’s Words (His proclamations, promises and covenant blessings) are ‘alive and active’ and waiting to be given an assignment?
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. (Isa. 55:11)
God has spoken about you, over you and for you. His words are eternal and alive. They are like soldiers or servants awaiting their orders. “My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh.” (Prov. 4:20-22)
When we find His words, believe them and then speak them, we are activating the eternal power of those words. Until we speak His words, they remain alive but unassigned. They cannot accomplish their purpose in our lives without our believing hearts declaring those words.
But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:8-9)
Believing and confessing God’s words about Jesus activated salvation and the new birth. There are hundreds of promises (words) waiting for your faith filled declaration in order to go to work in your life. Give God’s words an assignment.
Let it be to me according to your word. (Luke 1:38)
Love and prayers, Cynthia
P.S. - Praying that you had a wonderful week! I always enjoy Barry Bennett. His writing is always on time! I hope that they bless you as well, especially when I miss church!
Sunday, August 7, 2016
Idle Words
Happy Sunday!
Dr. Bill Winston said, "It is poor stewardship not to desire what Jesus has already paid for!" Think about it like this. A dear loved one, prepares your favorite meal with all the trimmings. This is a loved one who can really cook! They have a spotlessly clean kitchen, so there is no reason why you would not eat their food! They go all out, and break the budget. They are overjoyed to be able to provide this special meal. They patiently wait for you to enjoy it, but you go into the kitchen and eat cold cereal. All of their time, their hard work, and their effort has gone to waste. How disrespectful on your part! How selfish and inconsiderate of you not to partake of all they provided! Sure, I know what you're saying..."I would never do that!" Are you sure about that? Jesus suffered and died on the cross to redeem your life from destruction. This is not just a "Get Out of Hell Free Card" but an opportunity to live an abundant life! Jesus said, "The thief’s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in ALL its fullness."(John 10:10, Living Bible). The spies went into the Promised Land and brought back samples of the produce. It was evidence of the extravagant land God had given them. Numbers 13:23 describes the proof, "they checked out the lush Eshcol riverbed that, as its name suggests, grew bunches of grapes. So thick and heavy were the clusters that when two of the men cut down one branch holding one cluster, they had to carry it on a pole between them. They also picked up some pomegranates and figs from that place."(Voice). Don't let the enemy fool you! The Bible is not just a good book! This is actual history! This was one cluster of grapes! Nowadays, you give your child a cluster of grapes to hold in their hand. But just because our grapes pale in comparison, don't think that that God doesn't have BIG things prepared for you!
Dr. Winston continued the series, "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Living Large". We have to see ourselves the way God sees us! God sees us as the "righteousness of God in Christ Jesus". 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "Christ never sinned! But God treated him as a sinner, so that Christ could make us acceptable to God."(Contemporary English Version). John 1:12 says, "But to all who received him, he gave the right to become children of God. All they needed to do was to trust him to save them."(Living Bible). We are now God's children! He is a good, good father! He has provided everything we could ever need, and he wants us to have more than enough to share with others! 2 Corinthians 9:8 says, "God is ready to overwhelm you with more blessings than you could ever imagine so that you’ll always be taken care of in every way and you’ll have more than enough to share."(Voice).
How can we enjoy this type of abundance? Great question! I'm so glad you asked! Genesis 1:26 says, "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:"(KJV). We were created to act and look like God! We were given dominion in the earth over everything that creeps on the earth! Charles Capps used to say, "God even gave us dominion over creeps!" It's comical but it's true. We have the creative ability of God! We can speak things into existence. If you don't believe me, listen to the things you say on a daily basis. "I'm going to get stuck in traffic, I just know it!" What happened? You got stuck in traffic. I'm going to be sick as a dog!" What happened? You got sick! "I'm never going to have enough money for this!" What happened? You never had enough money for it, and you got mad at God since you did sent him a "worry-gram" labeled prayer. The Message Translation says it so well..."People who “worry their prayers” are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open."(James 1:6-7). You tell your child, "You'll never be anything!" What happened? They struggle, they fail, and without divine intervention they become what you said!
God spoke what he wanted to see! In Genesis 1:1, it was dark. God did not say, "Oh, it's really dark out here". He said what he wanted to see! He said, "Light be!". The Blessing guarantees perpetual supply and provision. Don't let an idle word stop the flow of your blessing! Matthew 12:36-37 says, "Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going to come back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation."(Message). It is a fight, a Faith Fight! It may not be easy, but it is possible! You can do it!
Living Large! Love and prayers, Cynthia
Dr. Bill Winston said, "It is poor stewardship not to desire what Jesus has already paid for!" Think about it like this. A dear loved one, prepares your favorite meal with all the trimmings. This is a loved one who can really cook! They have a spotlessly clean kitchen, so there is no reason why you would not eat their food! They go all out, and break the budget. They are overjoyed to be able to provide this special meal. They patiently wait for you to enjoy it, but you go into the kitchen and eat cold cereal. All of their time, their hard work, and their effort has gone to waste. How disrespectful on your part! How selfish and inconsiderate of you not to partake of all they provided! Sure, I know what you're saying..."I would never do that!" Are you sure about that? Jesus suffered and died on the cross to redeem your life from destruction. This is not just a "Get Out of Hell Free Card" but an opportunity to live an abundant life! Jesus said, "The thief’s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in ALL its fullness."(John 10:10, Living Bible). The spies went into the Promised Land and brought back samples of the produce. It was evidence of the extravagant land God had given them. Numbers 13:23 describes the proof, "they checked out the lush Eshcol riverbed that, as its name suggests, grew bunches of grapes. So thick and heavy were the clusters that when two of the men cut down one branch holding one cluster, they had to carry it on a pole between them. They also picked up some pomegranates and figs from that place."(Voice). Don't let the enemy fool you! The Bible is not just a good book! This is actual history! This was one cluster of grapes! Nowadays, you give your child a cluster of grapes to hold in their hand. But just because our grapes pale in comparison, don't think that that God doesn't have BIG things prepared for you!
Dr. Winston continued the series, "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Living Large". We have to see ourselves the way God sees us! God sees us as the "righteousness of God in Christ Jesus". 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "Christ never sinned! But God treated him as a sinner, so that Christ could make us acceptable to God."(Contemporary English Version). John 1:12 says, "But to all who received him, he gave the right to become children of God. All they needed to do was to trust him to save them."(Living Bible). We are now God's children! He is a good, good father! He has provided everything we could ever need, and he wants us to have more than enough to share with others! 2 Corinthians 9:8 says, "God is ready to overwhelm you with more blessings than you could ever imagine so that you’ll always be taken care of in every way and you’ll have more than enough to share."(Voice).
How can we enjoy this type of abundance? Great question! I'm so glad you asked! Genesis 1:26 says, "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:"(KJV). We were created to act and look like God! We were given dominion in the earth over everything that creeps on the earth! Charles Capps used to say, "God even gave us dominion over creeps!" It's comical but it's true. We have the creative ability of God! We can speak things into existence. If you don't believe me, listen to the things you say on a daily basis. "I'm going to get stuck in traffic, I just know it!" What happened? You got stuck in traffic. I'm going to be sick as a dog!" What happened? You got sick! "I'm never going to have enough money for this!" What happened? You never had enough money for it, and you got mad at God since you did sent him a "worry-gram" labeled prayer. The Message Translation says it so well..."People who “worry their prayers” are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open."(James 1:6-7). You tell your child, "You'll never be anything!" What happened? They struggle, they fail, and without divine intervention they become what you said!
God spoke what he wanted to see! In Genesis 1:1, it was dark. God did not say, "Oh, it's really dark out here". He said what he wanted to see! He said, "Light be!". The Blessing guarantees perpetual supply and provision. Don't let an idle word stop the flow of your blessing! Matthew 12:36-37 says, "Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going to come back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation."(Message). It is a fight, a Faith Fight! It may not be easy, but it is possible! You can do it!
Living Large! Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Level Up!
Happy Sunday!
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series, "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Living Large". This is the 29th installment in this series. Perhaps, you are wondering why it is necessary to teach or preach on the same subject for so long! That's understandable! Think about it like this...any thing that is important to you or to your career you invest time and and energy into it! Think about playing your favorite video game. You don't stop on level one! You work and work to reach the highest level available. The Apostle Paul described it like this, "Now all of us, with our faces unveiled, reflect the glory of the Lord as if we are mirrors; and so we are being transformed, metamorphosed, into His same image from one radiance of glory to another, just as the Spirit of the Lord accomplishes it."(Voice). Isn't that awesome? From one radiance or glory to another we are meant to move through this life. Dr. Winston said today, "Each time you overcome an obstacle or win a battle against the enemy you are rewarded with another level". It may not seem as if anything is happening in the natural, but in the spirit you are going from glory to glory! This is so encouraging to me, I hope it encourages you as well! Don't let the enemy fool you! When you refused to be offended at those mean words they spoke against you, you leveled up! When you refused to retaliate when you were attacked, you leveled up! When you refused to give up when it seemed all was lost, you leveled up! Keep up the good work!
Dr. Winston watched a movie while on vacation. He wasn't promoting the movie, but he did like a fight scene in the movie. The star made quick work of his enemy. It wasn't a long drawn out fight where everything in the area gets destroyed. The star dodged a few hits from a giant, then ran toward the giant, ran up his chest and slit his throat! That's what we have to do to our enemy! We have suffered and waited long enough! It's time to cut the head off of our enemy! He was already defeated thousands of years ago, but he continues to deceive weak and sinful humans into doing his dirty work. Jesus gave us power, authority, and his Blood to overcome Satan! The star in this particular movie said, "If you don't fight and win against the giants, no one will ever know your name!" We have to win this Faith fight. 1 Timothy 6:12 says, "Pursue a righteous life—a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses."(Message). It's the fight that makes your name great! God told Abraham that his name would be great! We are the children of Abraham! Galatians 3:29 says, "You belong to Christ, so you are Abraham’s descendants. You get ALL of God’s blessings because of the promise that God made to Abraham."(Easy-to-Read Version).
Dr. Winston encouraged us to get our information from God and only from God! The Word of God is our inventory! If you are ignorant about what legally belongs to you, you may live and die without it! Don't be ignorant of the Word of God and stay away from negative people! 1 Corinthians 15:33 says, "But don’t fool yourselves. Don’t let yourselves be poisoned by this anti-resurrection loose talk. “Bad company ruins good manners.”(Message).
Moving to the next level! Love and prayers, Cynthia
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series, "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Living Large". This is the 29th installment in this series. Perhaps, you are wondering why it is necessary to teach or preach on the same subject for so long! That's understandable! Think about it like this...any thing that is important to you or to your career you invest time and and energy into it! Think about playing your favorite video game. You don't stop on level one! You work and work to reach the highest level available. The Apostle Paul described it like this, "Now all of us, with our faces unveiled, reflect the glory of the Lord as if we are mirrors; and so we are being transformed, metamorphosed, into His same image from one radiance of glory to another, just as the Spirit of the Lord accomplishes it."(Voice). Isn't that awesome? From one radiance or glory to another we are meant to move through this life. Dr. Winston said today, "Each time you overcome an obstacle or win a battle against the enemy you are rewarded with another level". It may not seem as if anything is happening in the natural, but in the spirit you are going from glory to glory! This is so encouraging to me, I hope it encourages you as well! Don't let the enemy fool you! When you refused to be offended at those mean words they spoke against you, you leveled up! When you refused to retaliate when you were attacked, you leveled up! When you refused to give up when it seemed all was lost, you leveled up! Keep up the good work!
Dr. Winston watched a movie while on vacation. He wasn't promoting the movie, but he did like a fight scene in the movie. The star made quick work of his enemy. It wasn't a long drawn out fight where everything in the area gets destroyed. The star dodged a few hits from a giant, then ran toward the giant, ran up his chest and slit his throat! That's what we have to do to our enemy! We have suffered and waited long enough! It's time to cut the head off of our enemy! He was already defeated thousands of years ago, but he continues to deceive weak and sinful humans into doing his dirty work. Jesus gave us power, authority, and his Blood to overcome Satan! The star in this particular movie said, "If you don't fight and win against the giants, no one will ever know your name!" We have to win this Faith fight. 1 Timothy 6:12 says, "Pursue a righteous life—a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses."(Message). It's the fight that makes your name great! God told Abraham that his name would be great! We are the children of Abraham! Galatians 3:29 says, "You belong to Christ, so you are Abraham’s descendants. You get ALL of God’s blessings because of the promise that God made to Abraham."(Easy-to-Read Version).
Dr. Winston encouraged us to get our information from God and only from God! The Word of God is our inventory! If you are ignorant about what legally belongs to you, you may live and die without it! Don't be ignorant of the Word of God and stay away from negative people! 1 Corinthians 15:33 says, "But don’t fool yourselves. Don’t let yourselves be poisoned by this anti-resurrection loose talk. “Bad company ruins good manners.”(Message).
Moving to the next level! Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, July 24, 2016
See the Sign
Happy Sunday!
Our guest speaker today was, Dr. Keith Hershey. I recommend that you check out his ministry, Mutual Faith Ministries. If the Spirit leads you to help a ministry that reaches and assists people all over the world, this is a good one to support. The Apostle Paul encouraged the believers in Philippi that partnering with him in ministry would definitely result in a blessing.
Dr. Hershey entitled his message, "See the Sign!" He used Luke 2:12 as his anchor scripture. It says, "And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."(KJV). We live in a busy, self-centered, and distracted world. How many of us wake up and check Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram before doing anything else? We post things that we want to be seen. We post things to grab the attention and admiration of others. Marketers are constantly looking to create attention grabbers! Some municipalities have had to fight against digital billboards that seek to draw the attention of drivers on busy thoroughfares. Tech companies are creating games that use virtual reality and require the gamer to relinquish control.
God has given us a Sign from Heaven! It is vitally important that we See the Sign and Interpret it's meaning properly! JESUS is the SIGN! The shepherds were told where to find the Sign. The sign would be a baby that was born to die. The swaddling clothes he was wrapped in represented his death, and the way his body would be prepared for burial. Matthew 27:57-59 says, "That evening a rich man named Joseph came to Jerusalem. He was a follower of Jesus from the town of Arimathea. He went to Pilate and asked to have Jesus’ body. Pilate gave orders for the soldiers to give Jesus’ body to him. Then Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a new linen cloth."(Easy-to-Read Version). The stone manger that he was laid in represented the tomb he would be buried in. Matthew 27:60 says, "He put Jesus’ body in a new tomb that he had dug in a wall of rock. Then he closed the tomb by rolling a very large stone to cover the entrance. After he did this, he went away."(Easy-to-Read Version).
I know what you are thinking, "How can this be a Sign?" That's a great question! Signs are used to move us or get us moving! If you have been on the road to Memphis for a year and have not reached the destination, you are on the wrong road or reading the wrong signs! The Gospel is Good News to us unless we are living in condemnation! That's why the Word says, "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."(John 3:17, KJV). Jesus' death shows that we are valuable to God! God loves us just as we are, but he loves us too much to leave us just as we are!
When we see the Sign we receive three things:
Astounding Love - We should be thrilled everyday with God! 2 Corinthians 9:15 says, "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift."(KJV).
Abounding Love & Grace - We should be growing in Grace daily, and see others in the finished work of Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 says, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."(KJV).
Resounding Love & Grace - When we see the Sign it should bring us Joy! Luke 2:20 says, "And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them."(KJV). The shepherds were common everyday people. They may have been overlooked by others, but God chose to show them a very important sign.
Love and prayers, Cynthia
(http://mutualfaith.org/)
Our guest speaker today was, Dr. Keith Hershey. I recommend that you check out his ministry, Mutual Faith Ministries. If the Spirit leads you to help a ministry that reaches and assists people all over the world, this is a good one to support. The Apostle Paul encouraged the believers in Philippi that partnering with him in ministry would definitely result in a blessing.
Dr. Hershey entitled his message, "See the Sign!" He used Luke 2:12 as his anchor scripture. It says, "And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."(KJV). We live in a busy, self-centered, and distracted world. How many of us wake up and check Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram before doing anything else? We post things that we want to be seen. We post things to grab the attention and admiration of others. Marketers are constantly looking to create attention grabbers! Some municipalities have had to fight against digital billboards that seek to draw the attention of drivers on busy thoroughfares. Tech companies are creating games that use virtual reality and require the gamer to relinquish control.
God has given us a Sign from Heaven! It is vitally important that we See the Sign and Interpret it's meaning properly! JESUS is the SIGN! The shepherds were told where to find the Sign. The sign would be a baby that was born to die. The swaddling clothes he was wrapped in represented his death, and the way his body would be prepared for burial. Matthew 27:57-59 says, "That evening a rich man named Joseph came to Jerusalem. He was a follower of Jesus from the town of Arimathea. He went to Pilate and asked to have Jesus’ body. Pilate gave orders for the soldiers to give Jesus’ body to him. Then Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a new linen cloth."(Easy-to-Read Version). The stone manger that he was laid in represented the tomb he would be buried in. Matthew 27:60 says, "He put Jesus’ body in a new tomb that he had dug in a wall of rock. Then he closed the tomb by rolling a very large stone to cover the entrance. After he did this, he went away."(Easy-to-Read Version).
I know what you are thinking, "How can this be a Sign?" That's a great question! Signs are used to move us or get us moving! If you have been on the road to Memphis for a year and have not reached the destination, you are on the wrong road or reading the wrong signs! The Gospel is Good News to us unless we are living in condemnation! That's why the Word says, "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."(John 3:17, KJV). Jesus' death shows that we are valuable to God! God loves us just as we are, but he loves us too much to leave us just as we are!
When we see the Sign we receive three things:
Astounding Love - We should be thrilled everyday with God! 2 Corinthians 9:15 says, "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift."(KJV).
Abounding Love & Grace - We should be growing in Grace daily, and see others in the finished work of Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 says, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."(KJV).
Resounding Love & Grace - When we see the Sign it should bring us Joy! Luke 2:20 says, "And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them."(KJV). The shepherds were common everyday people. They may have been overlooked by others, but God chose to show them a very important sign.
Love and prayers, Cynthia
(http://mutualfaith.org/)
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Fear Not
Happy Sunday!
I've always been amazed when I read Revelation 21:8, that the "FEARFUL" are a part of the group that will be cast into the lake of fire. It says, "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."(KJV). What could be wrong with being afraid? It's a good question. So I sought out answers. In more than 365 scriptures, there are exhortations to "Fear Not" or "Be Not Afraid". With so many references about not being afraid, it must mean that in this life there will be opportunities to fear. But because we are commanded not to fear, it has to be possible to live this life fearlessly.
2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."(KJV). So fear is not from God! Did you or your children ever bring something home, only to have a parent say, "Where did you get that from?" We don't want our children begging or being exposed to unsavory characters. So we teach them to ask us for what they want and need. It's the same with our Heavenly Father! 1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."(KJV).
Fear and Faith work in the same manner! Both believe that something that hasn't happened will happen. Fear believes that something negative will happen, and Faith believes that something positive will happen. Faith and fear cannot occupy the same space. It's like Jesus said about serving two masters, it is impossible. You will love one and hate the other. (Matthew 6:24). Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."(KJV).
In light of recent events in our nation, I am more convinced that the enemy is well aware that his time is getting short. He uses gullible people to carry out his demonic plans, and then plasters their deeds on every available media outlet in order to induce fear in the hearts of men and women. John 10:10(a) reminds us of his mode of operation, "The thief approaches with malicious intent, looking to steal, slaughter, and destroy;"(Voice). Jesus prophesied, "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken."(Luke 21:25-26, KJV). Did you see that? Fear is strong enough to kill! No wonder the Word continues to remind us not to be afraid.
I know what you are thinking. How can I not fear? There are so many horrible things happening to people just like me. Great question! I'm so glad you asked! Psalm 23:4 says, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."(KJV). This scripture is overflowing with information about how to live without fear. First, keep walking! Don't allow fear to paralyze you! Remember God is always with you and he will never leave you! The rod and the staff represent correction and guidance. Admit that you don't know it all, and allow God to guide you by the Holy Spirit. I am reminded of the testimonies from September 11, 2001, Numerous people recalled not feeling like going to work that day in the World Trade Center. Some testified of other things that prevented them from being in the towers and perishing that day. The old folks called it "your first mind". It's that still small voice that tells you, let's take a different route home today. Tune in the the Holy Spirit and make the Word your priority! The psalmist wrote, "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"(Psalm 27:1, KJV). Light keeps us from stumbling around in the dark, light makes it easier to navigate, and light as in enlightenment can help us to avoid the traps of the enemy. Salvation in the Greek and Hebrew means, "Nothing missing, and nothing broken!" There is no reason to fear when you have everything you could ever need for this life.
Psalm 27 goes on to describe the benefit of God being your light and salvation. It says, "When vandal hordes ride down ready to eat me alive, Those bullies and toughs fall flat on their faces. When besieged, I’m calm as a baby. When all hell breaks loose, I’m collected and cool."(Psalm 27:2-3, Message).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. - Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. - Hebrew 13:6 (KJV)
You see, you have not received a spirit that returns you to slavery, so you have nothing to fear. The Spirit you have received adopts you and welcomes you into God’s own family. That’s why we call out to Him, “Abba! Father!” as we would address a loving daddy. - Romans 8:15 (Voice)
I've always been amazed when I read Revelation 21:8, that the "FEARFUL" are a part of the group that will be cast into the lake of fire. It says, "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."(KJV). What could be wrong with being afraid? It's a good question. So I sought out answers. In more than 365 scriptures, there are exhortations to "Fear Not" or "Be Not Afraid". With so many references about not being afraid, it must mean that in this life there will be opportunities to fear. But because we are commanded not to fear, it has to be possible to live this life fearlessly.
2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."(KJV). So fear is not from God! Did you or your children ever bring something home, only to have a parent say, "Where did you get that from?" We don't want our children begging or being exposed to unsavory characters. So we teach them to ask us for what they want and need. It's the same with our Heavenly Father! 1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."(KJV).
Fear and Faith work in the same manner! Both believe that something that hasn't happened will happen. Fear believes that something negative will happen, and Faith believes that something positive will happen. Faith and fear cannot occupy the same space. It's like Jesus said about serving two masters, it is impossible. You will love one and hate the other. (Matthew 6:24). Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."(KJV).
In light of recent events in our nation, I am more convinced that the enemy is well aware that his time is getting short. He uses gullible people to carry out his demonic plans, and then plasters their deeds on every available media outlet in order to induce fear in the hearts of men and women. John 10:10(a) reminds us of his mode of operation, "The thief approaches with malicious intent, looking to steal, slaughter, and destroy;"(Voice). Jesus prophesied, "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken."(Luke 21:25-26, KJV). Did you see that? Fear is strong enough to kill! No wonder the Word continues to remind us not to be afraid.
I know what you are thinking. How can I not fear? There are so many horrible things happening to people just like me. Great question! I'm so glad you asked! Psalm 23:4 says, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."(KJV). This scripture is overflowing with information about how to live without fear. First, keep walking! Don't allow fear to paralyze you! Remember God is always with you and he will never leave you! The rod and the staff represent correction and guidance. Admit that you don't know it all, and allow God to guide you by the Holy Spirit. I am reminded of the testimonies from September 11, 2001, Numerous people recalled not feeling like going to work that day in the World Trade Center. Some testified of other things that prevented them from being in the towers and perishing that day. The old folks called it "your first mind". It's that still small voice that tells you, let's take a different route home today. Tune in the the Holy Spirit and make the Word your priority! The psalmist wrote, "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"(Psalm 27:1, KJV). Light keeps us from stumbling around in the dark, light makes it easier to navigate, and light as in enlightenment can help us to avoid the traps of the enemy. Salvation in the Greek and Hebrew means, "Nothing missing, and nothing broken!" There is no reason to fear when you have everything you could ever need for this life.
Psalm 27 goes on to describe the benefit of God being your light and salvation. It says, "When vandal hordes ride down ready to eat me alive, Those bullies and toughs fall flat on their faces. When besieged, I’m calm as a baby. When all hell breaks loose, I’m collected and cool."(Psalm 27:2-3, Message).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. - Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. - Hebrew 13:6 (KJV)
You see, you have not received a spirit that returns you to slavery, so you have nothing to fear. The Spirit you have received adopts you and welcomes you into God’s own family. That’s why we call out to Him, “Abba! Father!” as we would address a loving daddy. - Romans 8:15 (Voice)
Sunday, July 3, 2016
6 Steps for Getting to the Top
Happy Sunday!
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Moving to the Top". Romans 10:17 says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."(KJV). This scripture says faith comes to us by hearing, not by having heard! It's the continual hearing of God's Word that changes us, strengthens us, and empowers us to receive all that Jesus paid for us to have. We have been cheated by the enemy, by unscrupulous people, and by our own ignorance. Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge:"(KJV).
Dr. Winston gave us 6 Steps for Getting to the Top...
1. Don't try to adjust the Word to fit your lifestyle. - As a jet fighter pilot, Dr. Winston had to learn to do everything by the rules governing flight. His instructors encouraged him, when all else fails go back to the book! The Bible is the manufacturers handbook for humanity. If you have a question or concern, there is a scripture for that! For our smartphones, there is always an app for anything you may want to do. In the same way there is a scripture for anything you may encounter. So your neighbor installed their fence on your property? There's a scripture for that! So the boss looked over you again for that position? There's a scripture for that!
2. From this point forward, your opinion does NOT matter! - Colossians 1:13 says, "Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:"(KJV). We are part of the Kingdom of God. It's a theocracy, not a democracy! What God says is law. Sure, you can do whatever you want! But like gravity if you violate it you will suffer the consequences. In our saturated social society, everyone has an opinion about everything. When your view conflicts with God's view, you are walking in darkness. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:"(KJV). To get to the top, you will have to adjust your thinking!
3. Find out where you are supposed to be and get in that place! - You are unique! There is not another person in the universe exactly like you! There is a place and purpose made especially for you. This world needs you and your authentic gifts! The King of Babylon besieged the city of Jerusalem! He commanded his assistants to look for the best and the brightest Israelites! Daniel 1:4 says, Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans."(KJV). The world system is still looking to draw you away from your true purpose. I used to commute through Chicago Union Station. In the mornings, I would watch the masses leaving their trains and heading to their jobs in the city! For the most part, they looked like slaves being forced from their beds and out into the fields to pick cotton! No life, no joy, and barely a word to anyone else! This is not the way God wants you to live! Stay out of debt so that you will not be forced to stay in a job just to pay bills, when your true purpose is calling you!
4. Big things start with small steps! - Don't let fear stop you! Fear connects to death! Job 8:7 says, "From your modest beginnings, the future will be bright before you."(Voice).
5. Fix your mind on the Promise not the problem. - The Promise will drive out the problem, but we have to trust in the Promise! Number 23:19 says, "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?"(KJV). In order to fix our minds on the Promise we have to resolve in our minds that God is trustworthy! He will never lie! He can be trusted and His Word is everlasting.
6. Don't mistake your condition for your portion! - Things may look dreary! But the Word says, "For we walk by faith, not by sight:"(KJV). One of my favorite poems is entitled, "Don't Quit". One stanza says, "Often the struggler has given up, When he might have the victor's cup. And he learned too late, when the night slipped down, How close he was to the golden crown," Victory is closer than you think! Your wallet may be empty, your body may be racked with pain, your loved one may be gone to Heaven sooner than you imagined, but don't accept this current situation as final! As the little red-headed prophet once said, "The sun will come out tomorrow! Bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow there will be sun!" You are the Seed of Abraham because of your connection to Jesus the Christ, and all of those Blessings belong to you!
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series "Receiving Your Inheritance" with the subtitle, "Moving to the Top". Romans 10:17 says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."(KJV). This scripture says faith comes to us by hearing, not by having heard! It's the continual hearing of God's Word that changes us, strengthens us, and empowers us to receive all that Jesus paid for us to have. We have been cheated by the enemy, by unscrupulous people, and by our own ignorance. Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge:"(KJV).
Dr. Winston gave us 6 Steps for Getting to the Top...
1. Don't try to adjust the Word to fit your lifestyle. - As a jet fighter pilot, Dr. Winston had to learn to do everything by the rules governing flight. His instructors encouraged him, when all else fails go back to the book! The Bible is the manufacturers handbook for humanity. If you have a question or concern, there is a scripture for that! For our smartphones, there is always an app for anything you may want to do. In the same way there is a scripture for anything you may encounter. So your neighbor installed their fence on your property? There's a scripture for that! So the boss looked over you again for that position? There's a scripture for that!
2. From this point forward, your opinion does NOT matter! - Colossians 1:13 says, "Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:"(KJV). We are part of the Kingdom of God. It's a theocracy, not a democracy! What God says is law. Sure, you can do whatever you want! But like gravity if you violate it you will suffer the consequences. In our saturated social society, everyone has an opinion about everything. When your view conflicts with God's view, you are walking in darkness. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:"(KJV). To get to the top, you will have to adjust your thinking!
3. Find out where you are supposed to be and get in that place! - You are unique! There is not another person in the universe exactly like you! There is a place and purpose made especially for you. This world needs you and your authentic gifts! The King of Babylon besieged the city of Jerusalem! He commanded his assistants to look for the best and the brightest Israelites! Daniel 1:4 says, Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans."(KJV). The world system is still looking to draw you away from your true purpose. I used to commute through Chicago Union Station. In the mornings, I would watch the masses leaving their trains and heading to their jobs in the city! For the most part, they looked like slaves being forced from their beds and out into the fields to pick cotton! No life, no joy, and barely a word to anyone else! This is not the way God wants you to live! Stay out of debt so that you will not be forced to stay in a job just to pay bills, when your true purpose is calling you!
4. Big things start with small steps! - Don't let fear stop you! Fear connects to death! Job 8:7 says, "From your modest beginnings, the future will be bright before you."(Voice).
5. Fix your mind on the Promise not the problem. - The Promise will drive out the problem, but we have to trust in the Promise! Number 23:19 says, "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?"(KJV). In order to fix our minds on the Promise we have to resolve in our minds that God is trustworthy! He will never lie! He can be trusted and His Word is everlasting.
6. Don't mistake your condition for your portion! - Things may look dreary! But the Word says, "For we walk by faith, not by sight:"(KJV). One of my favorite poems is entitled, "Don't Quit". One stanza says, "Often the struggler has given up, When he might have the victor's cup. And he learned too late, when the night slipped down, How close he was to the golden crown," Victory is closer than you think! Your wallet may be empty, your body may be racked with pain, your loved one may be gone to Heaven sooner than you imagined, but don't accept this current situation as final! As the little red-headed prophet once said, "The sun will come out tomorrow! Bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow there will be sun!" You are the Seed of Abraham because of your connection to Jesus the Christ, and all of those Blessings belong to you!
Love and prayers, Cynthia
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