by admin | May 1, 2009 | Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments, Personal, Relationship Not Religion!
There are so many things going on in the world as well as the United States, and we probably all have opinions on most of the events. AT A TIME SUCH AS THIS…..what do we do?
When we have a heart’s desire to build the Kingdom of God on earth–when we want everyone to have the opportunity to know Jesus personally–when we love people and want the best for them–just what do we do?
When we state what we believe and stand our ground, too often it comes across as judgment. In other words, we are right and you are wrong, scenario. But does that really bring Life? Can the Truth flourish in an atmosphere of condemnation? My Bible says, “It is the goodness of God that brings men to repentance.” (Romans 2:4)
One of my favorite Pastors says, “I don’t enter any battles I have no opportunity to change.” And, I think that is what I am saying to myself these days, “Choose your battles carefully, Carol, that you do not strain at a gnat and swallow a camel.”
There are times when we must stand for Jesus and what we believe…..and I certainly pray I will be embolden when that happens. However, there is a strong group–that I follow–in the Church who are saying we must (as Jesus directed in Matthew) to teach all Nations about the Kingdom of God. That we must have an influence in media, government, the market, education, entertainment, the arts, family and so on.
We will definitely not make friends and influence people with attitudes of superiority, and hearts filled with judgment about how wrong our associates may be. To even enter those fields we must be well equipped and ready to be the absolute best….for whatever is required. Then we need to soak in the Love and Grace of God until it permeates our being and our hearts are filled with a desire to bless and care about everyone we meet.
Do we really trust the Holy Spirit? Do we know that our part is to set an example, pray for others and trust Him to work? Or do we think it is totally up to us to confront with what we know to be the truth, and people will change? In 23 years of ministry I have not found that to work. However, loving and caring with mercy and compassion, is overwhelming to even the nastiest of demons–their power pales under that kind of influence.
Carrie Prejean, Miss California, stood for what she believes and lost the crown for Miss USA. She was put in a no-win situation by the question given her. The Holy Spirit was there for her and has provided the help she has needed through the hours and days that followed.
Ten or twelve years ago I was blessed to meet two great women of God, who were at the time living in Israel. They worked in the community and never talked about Jesus openly, but prayed at night, for those who crossed their path during the day. They learned as time went on, that Jesus was going personally to those individuals and they were accepting Him as their Messiah. And to this day, my heart cries out that we would have that kind of faith for the Lord do His part when we do ours! He is sooooo good at what He does and it is His plan after all.
If I love my neighbor as myself……how would I like Jesus presented to me ?
This is such a dazzling age. Information and knowledge abounds everywhere. But love? It seems scarce and many are searching for it in all the wrong places. I do not mean sentimental love….I mean the kind of love that truly cares about others and their welfare. Jesus spent a great deal of time with those the Bible calls ‘sinners’ ….must be a clue there, for us! May we move, not in self-righteousness, but in the righteousness of Christ to move the Kingdom beyond our doors, for the King of all kings, our Jesus!
Pressing in and pressing on….
P S If you would like hear Carrie’s testimony at her church, click here
http://inspirationmanifestation.com/142/miss-california-carrie-prejean-tells-all-at-church-interview.php
by admin | Apr 18, 2009 | Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments, Politics, Spiritual Warfare, etc., Uncategorized
Many were astounded, as was I, this week as a report was released in which the Director of HomeLand Security named among others….’right wing pro-life’ people to be terrorists….all terrorist considered dangerous and to be watched closely.
I looked up the meaning of terrorist and found a lot….let me share a little of that: out of over 100 definitions they (a study group) concludes that the ‘only general characteristic generally agreed upon is that terrorism involves violence and the threat of violence.’ Yet terrorism is hardly the only enterprise involving violence and the threat of violence. So does war, coercive diplomacy, and bar room brawls.” Hence depending on the perspective of the state a resistance movement may or may not be labelled terrorist group based on whether the members of a resistance movement are considered lawful or unlawful combatants and their right to resist occupation is recognized. Ultimately, the distinction is a political judgment.
If, indeed, ‘right wing pro-life’ people are terrorists then it is very easy to identify their leader. His Name is Jesus Christ. He was known to say–actually recorded for thousands of years–“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones (children); for I say unto you that in Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” and “But whosoever shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the dept of the sea.”
Yet, Jesus was also the First to forgive sin, and offer redemption; i.e. peace, love and joy for those who opposed Him. Seems an unlikely leader of a ‘terrorist group’? Yet, that is the accusation in the report from the White House.
This is not an accusation against a group of people but against the very Lord of Glory, Son of God, King of Kings because all who follow Him are part of Him. Who in their right mind would come against the most honored revered loved Man in all of History? The spirit of stupid must have moved into the White House.
I am not of course defending those individuals who also were caught up in the ‘spirit of stupid, death and violence’ who bombed abortion clinics or took out their rage on individuals…..even followers of Jesus can be deceived.
Those who believe in moral boundaries that protect all peoples, those who value and believe in life from conception, those who have received the forgiving Grace of God, and truly follow the commandments of Jesus are told by Him, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despite-fully use you, and persecute you;”
Nuts! That includes the director of HomeLand Security….and I am having trouble doing that right now. However, I will, because it is a discipline….a decision of my will, not my emotions.
Jesus did say, “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:” What better way to divide and destroy our country than to have our leaders accuse (with veiled threats) the supporters of the sanctity of life? Because we do not agree with others does not mean that we destroy each other as though we were the enemy.
Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.” That sounds down right inflammatory if a person does not understand that Jesus is talking of the supernatural realm that we are all a part of, and His kind of force is prayer. Amazingly Jesus spoke to this situation 2000 years ago….now there is a leader we can truly follow.
There may be times when we must physically defend our country….but defend ourselves from our own leaders? What is wrong with this picture? President Obama, why do we not have a military person, who has personally faced the threat of loss of life and limb, in charge of HomeLand Security? Someone who truly understands covert operations, not spending time and tax money on watching people who are defending religious freedom?
Paul, a man who knew Jesus well, said, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Good advice! Quick to forgive those who know not what they do–forcefully praying against the spirits behind such deception and division.
I have said for years, if I were an Atheist, or a Muslim, or Hindu, or any other religion, living in America, out of a desire to believe whatever I chose to believe, I would want Christians in charge of the country because they will fight to protect the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. This has been one Nation Under God, and to insure that it will remain so will require prayer, unity of purpose (if not in doctrine), and quickly responding to the words of Jesus Christ, to keep the freedoms we have so lavishly enjoyed.
Pressing in and pressing on…..
by admin | Apr 9, 2009 | Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments, Personal, Relationship Not Religion!
Celebrating the resurrected life of Jesus Christ this week brings to mind a scripture in three of the four Gospels in the New Testament: Matthew 16:24; Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23…..
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, ‘If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me’.”
I delight in the fact that no matter how long we read the Bible we will find new understanding and revelation that will enhance and bless our lives. One that came to my mind this week was on the above Scripture.
The focus of course, is on Jesus, what He did, how He suffered for mankind, forgave and changed the world forever! Thank God we dedicate a day to celebrate, honor and rejoice for our good fortune and love on Jesus, the man, the person He is for us today! But, how do we take up our cross and follow Him?
I am sure there are many answers to the question. I respectfully want to share mine! When Jesus said, “Father Forgive them, they know not what they do!” set in motion a supernatural phenomena that will never end. Forgiveness and repentance have more power spiritually than an atom-powered locomotive on a down hill track. That declaration of forgiveness and the payment of His blood, His life, has taken the penalty of sin in the world, for those who chose to accept His gracious selfless gift–available to each and every person on the planet.
We can pick up our cross, and do as He did, in forgiving others. (John 20:23) This really does take denial of self, because most of the time we don’t feel like forgiving. Wonder how much Jesus felt like forgiving as He hung on that cross racked with pain, having taken the weight of the world upon himself? The magic of forgiveness is not a game or a shallow act of being humble but a decision of our will to have the will of the Father in Heaven, not ours!
It is not always easy…..but always possible! Because God has put supernatural power in the act of using our will to do His. Sometimes we must get rid of our judgment of the person or incident to forgive. Sometimes we need to be healed of the hurt or pain, to forgive. But, the greatest power and reward comes when we forgive out of our pain, as Jesus did!
Forgiveness is not:
- Stuffing our feelings and emotions!
- Condoning the act–“Oh, it’s OK.”
- Taking part in–“Well, it’s just this once.”
- Agreeing with–“Well, everyone does it.”
Forgiveness is, giving our pain, hurt and offense to a Heavenly Father, because the price has already been paid by Jesus, and the very act and declaration by a decision of our will, cleanses, heals and restores!
Jesus died once and was resurrected to give abundant Life…..just once….and every year we are reminded because of Him we too, can deny self, pick up our cross and follow Him. What a precious Easter gift He has given us!
Forgiveness never loses it’s power or effect. Forgiveness can restore relationships, bond groups and communities together, end wars and most of all, bring the presence of God right into our lives! Thank you, Lord–You are so special and more than enough in every situation!
HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY!
Pressing in and pressing on….
Note: If you are new to this Blog, you are invited to take advantage of the FREE BOOK OFFER given on the page to the right of an indepth study of this subject on forgiveness in the book–THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DO!
by admin | Apr 3, 2009 | Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments, Personal, Relationship Not Religion!
That is what a friend of mine said the other day…..and she really touched my heart. So as I talked with her I began to think about my own prayer-life and how many others might feel the way she does. There is such an emptiness and sadness in what she said. I now pray my comments will change hearts as it has mine in writing it!
If we ever think prayer is work or boring we must ask ourselves several question:
- Why are we praying?
- What does God represent to us?
- Do we believe He hears us?
- Do we believe He will answer?
- What is the alternative?
It is so simple, a sovereign God, in His love for His creation of mankind, has limited His own powers to give us free will. He wants our love and relationship because we chose to love Him, to be with Him forever. However, our Gracious Loving Heavenly Father sent Jesus that we might really know Him, His heart and His purpose for us in eternity. Then God Graciously established communication, the Gift of Prayer, to bond to the powers of Heaven!
What a privilege and honor He has given to His children, those who chose to love Him. There is an evil spirit of ‘Urgency’ that convinces and deceives us into thinking we don’t have time to pray…..there are other priorities…..immediate needs….doesn’t God understand? Why can’t He just take care of it for us?
The Majestic Communication of Prayer is our bond to the Throne Room of a Loving Father. The Bible tells us we are the bride of Christ. I ask my friend and myself…..would I want to be married to someone who never talked to me? Would I want a husband or wife who went everywhere without me?
They might do their chores or support us, but never to talk to us….never to share with us feelings and emotion? I don’t think so! Not for me! If prayer is only at a structured time in a specific place, that could be work…..sounds more like religion than relationship. If we pray to feel good about ourselves, to move the Hand of God, to feel ‘justified’ in our Christian walk, we have missed the point and we are groveling in self-righteousness.
- I pray because I want to…..because I love Him…..because I have needs I want to give to Him!
- God represents to me–Heavenly Father, Loving Lord, Comforting Spirit….my future….here and forever!
- As Jesus said, I know He always hears me!
- For many years He has answered, I have seen miracles, been comforted, enjoyed laughter at His Hand and comfort in my grief. The answers I don’t receive are because of fear, doubt or unbelief in my heart. So I seek more of Him to forgive the past and build another future….knowing He will not leave or forsake me no matter what the devil, and evil in the world may throw at me!
- The alternative is have no one to call on, to lean on, and no excuse when things go wrong that I did not pray about.
One of the ten commandments says not to take the Lord’s Name in vain. So if we pray just for our needs and then hope for an answer or doubt His faithfulness, we are taking the Lord’s Name in vain, and our so-called prayer will avail little. Do I set aside special times for prayer…..yes….just as I would want special time with a spouse or friend. Do I enjoy prayer meetings….whee….yes, it like having a party to celebrate someone special!
It is so fun to talk to the Lord just like we talk to anyone else through out our day. If we have asked and received a gift of a prayer language, where the Holy Spirit prays with us, through us, we can do that, all through the day while accomplishing other things. The action of connecting to the power of God with prayer builds our spirit strength and resolve to be led by the spirit and not by our fleshly worldly thinking. The Spirit of God has more wisdom than all mankind and can lead us in blessings, endurance in hardship and joy in just being with Him.
In writing this I realize PRAYER is the greatest gift I have on this earth….until I face Him face to face and can personally converse for ever! I am so grateful for my friend, that she brought me to remembrance of something I was taking for granted! I ask the Lord to forgive me….He is quick to do so…..another great gift from God….
Pressing in and pressing on…..
by admin | Mar 23, 2009 | Kingdom Comments, Personal, Relationship Not Religion!
“Double portion” has been on my mind and heart for over a week. The Holy Spirit impressing upon me all the ways our giving can bring a double portion blessing!
- In Giving both the Giver and the Receiver are blessed!
- When giving an individual something, even a cup of water, a smile or handshake….the honor given by the Givor is a double blessing to the Receiver!
- The Bible teaches ‘seed, time and harvest,’ so when we give into a ministry, a good work or just to a person we have planted a seed in the spiritual Kingdom of God that will bring a harvest….a double portion blessing!
- Because God is the greatest of all ‘Givors‘ (hope He doesn’t mind the term I just made up), that is His Character and Nature ….He is pleased with us when we give….another double portion blessing…pleasing our Heavenly Father.
- In the United States giving to a non-profit ministry or company is tax-deductible making the gift a double portion blessing!
- When we give and the receiver in turn thanks us for giving–we are not only blessed by giving, but also receive a blessing by the receiver of the gift–double portion.
- When we give something of ourselves we make room in our heart or our house for something new that will definitely be a double portion blessing.
- When we pray for someone our prayer is a gift of eternal measure….and the love of God flows through us…a beautiful double portion blessing…..knowing every time we bless we are being blessed!
We could go on and on….isn’t this fun to think about the positive side of life…that of being a ‘Givor’ with a joyful heart?
GIVING IS ALWAYS A BLESSING BECAUSE IT COMES RIGHT OUT OF THE HEART OF GOD WITHIN US….IT IS MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN RECEIVE…THANK YOU, JESUS!
Just for fun, see if you can think of more double portion blessings in life…..sure more enjoyable and inspiring than trying to figure out the ‘news’ these days! Even more fun will be to figure out how to give in new and exciting ways knowing it will bring a double portion blessing!
Pressing in and pressing on…..a double portion return….Absolutely!
by admin | Mar 4, 2009 | Jesus Talk, Kingdom Comments, Personal, Spiritual Warfare, etc.
After watching the Academy Awards (while working on the computer–multi-tasking, you know….) I was drawn into a strong desire to see the move, Slumdog Millionaire. I have this little game I play with myself, every year I watch the Academy Awards to see if anyone, I mean anyone, thanks God for their good fortune or even acknowledges God at all.
Well, unless I missed something, in 2007, there was one talented gifted Black Actor who thanked God for his good fortune. Hooray! God bless that man! This year two men acknowledged God in their ‘thank you’ speech. Two men from India….WOW…..that made me want to see the movie any more! But, enough of this ‘rabbit trail’.
The movie is wonderful. Well done, very graphic, very realistic, and very haunting…..right into our soul. The poverty, abuse and the outrageous life of the ‘slumdogs’ there reveals reality we don’t want to acknowledge, but it is there. The movie is a story of tenacity in the face of unbelievable odds, sacrifice and pain that in the end gives us all hope.
I have seen poverty such as was shown, in Tijuana, Mexico. My friend who spent time in Africa says the says the same thing exists there. WHOOPS…..I just remembered that the night before I had seen a TV movie on Lifetime–a true story, FOR THE LOVE OF A CHILD, based on a book called SILENCE BROKENby Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson.
This TV movie is about abused children in our country, United States of America. We are appalled by the utter depravity we see in other countries, but we have it here too. There were stories in the movie to make you want to throw-up in seeing what human beings can do to small children, especially contemptible when it is their own children. In the past there have been terrible news stories of a mother drowning her children, a man setting his son on fire…..and more and more. In the slums of America crime and pain are a way of life, as all over the world.
How interesting that this malignity of man is the same in all these countries….almost like there is a master plan. Of course there is a master plan of the enemy to destroy mankind and he uses men, their thoughts, their pain and their actions to do it.
Many men and women are searching for God’s plan in their life, with little regard to the plan of the devil in their lives. Many do not live in the slums but endure pain and rejection over and over. God’s plan for man’s life is for good and not evil–God’s plan is to build the Kingdom of God on earth with Grace, Mercy and Love and he uses men and women to do that. We must not be deceived, the devil uses men and women to bring about his plans–to kill, rob and destroy–he is a liar and duplicates all he can that God does for good, he does for evil.
How is this possible? Ignorance of the facts. Denial of the supernatural. Fear of confronting the enemy. Most of all a lack of knowledge of Who God really is…..What Jesus accomplished and the power and authority men and women have in and through Him with the Holy Spirit.
We live in a real world and action such as the women took in the movie, FOR THE LOVE OF A CHILD, where they took in (and still do) abused children and love and care for them, attempting to change their lives, is absolutely necessary–more and more–in every country. (To help their efforts, or for help, or the movie, go to: www.childhelp.com)
However, the Bible is very clear our battle is not with flesh and blood. How do we win a war we don’t acknowledge? How do we win a war when we don’t know what weapons we have at our disposal? If we don’t become warriors we will be prisoners of war!
For more knowledge on this, read the Bible. The book of Ephesians is sooo good, but there is a world of information in all the New Testament. What did Jesus do? There’s an answer. For the insights and experiences our team has had in fighting this war, our book, ANGELS AND DEMONS, HOLLYWOOD KNOWS THE DIFFERENCE is available at the top of this page under Carol’s Books. It is full of information and real life stories…..
Pressing in and pressing on…….
