Holy Spirit Power

In Mathew 10:1 Jesus called his disciples and gave them power that is excousia or authority in the Greek.
Jesus made his disciples ambassadors representing the kingdom of God but did you know the delegated authority or excousia in the Greek is defined as one who is a magistrate.

A magistrate is a civil officer or lay judge who administers the law. Especially one who conducts a court and deals with offenses. When Jesus gave his disciples excousia or authority in the Greek what he did was call them to have delegated influence in a jurisdiction. Matthew 28:18

The Bible says that the whole world lies in wickedness under the power of the evil one. The world system and those not saved are under the influence of Satan and his hordes.

Jesus delegated his authority to believers. Those who are his disciples (disciplined ones)

What is the Lord’s authority? ALL authority.

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority power (translated excousia or authority) has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” Matthew 28:18

Under the authority of Jesus Christ believers are delegated authority over all the works of darkness. Not some but ALL authority.

That is all power over unclean demonic spirits. To cast them out. To expel or send them away. Authority to set captives free from the dominion of darkness. Authority to heal, every manner of disease or sickness.

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28: 18-20

Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld. John 20:19-24

In Luke 10 :19 Jesus said
I give unto you power...excousia…athourity…to trample over…(put in subjection)
snakes…(sly cunning malicious persons)…and scorpions…(the sting or piercings of evil attacks)..and over all the power of….(demonic activity ..demonic strength)….the enemy…(Satan and his demons.) And nothing shall hurt… (injure…do wrong)…to you.

Believers have been given authority or jurisdiction over the evil one. In order to exercise that authority one must receive dumanis power .

When Jesus was with his disciples he gave them his authority to cast out devils and heal the sick but after Jesus was risen from the dead he sent the Holy Spirit to empower them to have delegated power and authority over the works of darkness.

Luke 24:49 says wait until you receive power from on high.
Endued with or clothed with….power… dumanis … from heaven.

To be clothed with means to be endowed with or provided with a quality or insight. This power works in conjunction with authority.

One must not only be saved or regenerated by the Holy Spirit but also empowered by the Holy Spirit in order to exercise authority in this world to do works of the kingdom of God.

Some Christians call this being baptized in the Holy Spirit or sanctified by the Spirit. The Bible calls it receiving or being clothed with dumanis power from on high.

Notice that the receiving of power is from heaven. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit occurs from regeneration or being born again. There is also an endowment of supernatural ability the Lord gives.

Some Christians have dumanis power but they do not exercise authority. You can find this kind of situation in many churches. There are also Christians who use authority in Jesus Christ but have no power to back that authority up.

Positionally Christians have authority over the devil but that authority cannot be exercised without power or dumanis.

In Luke the scriptures tell us that the power or dumanis of the Lord (power of the Holy Spirit) was present to heal. With power or dumanis Jesus commands the unclean spirits and they come out.

Dumanis is also power to preform God’s mighty miraculous strength and power.

With authority or jurisdiction, Jesus commanded the evil spirits and they obey him.

This is exercised through authority and power which is given from on high or heaven.

Jesus preached the word or logos with power and authority delegated to him from heaven.

John 1 :12 tells us that those who receive Jesus have been given authority to become the sons of God.

What does being a son of the most high give positionally? Basically the power and authority to not only walk in the same character as Jesus Christ but also to perform the same works. Greater works because there are now many sons of God in the earth.

Satan hides this biblical truth from Christians. Most Christians do not walk in what Jesus Christ died to provide for them.

Why? Unbelief. Ignorance. Disobedience to the truth.

Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:7
We have this power in earthen vessels when we have become born of God.

All true Christians have been given authority and power over the works of darkness.

Being endued with power from on high is a one time experience but it is also a continual experience.

Just because we have a well of water or Holy Spirit power dwelling within us does not mean we can drink without drawing from that well.

We must draw from that well. In other words we must tarry with God. Spend time with him. Get our heart right. Repent of all sin. Gain spiritual insight from him. Get his plan or purpose for our life.

It is the same with endowment with power from on high to perform miraculous signs and wonders. We must continually pray and stay close to Jesus to appropriate his dumanis power.

Jesus specifically said that the Holy Spirit will be in you AND on you.

If we are born again the Holy Spirt indwells us but also cloths us with his power.

Acts 1 :8 says that when we receive power dumanis after the Holy Spirit has come upon you, that is arrives to bring his influence then we become his witnesses. Bearing record of him by becoming a martyr (sold out to God) in all the earth.

How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. Acts 10:38

The Bible talks about being indwelt with the Holy Spirit and having the Holy Spirit come upon you to be a witness.

Some Christians teach there is no difference but scriptures tell us other wise. To indwell or be in you is the anointing. All Christians have an anointing for service. All who believe in Jesus Christ can operate in the gifts of the Spirit in utterance, inspiration, healing, etc.

There is another phenomena of the Spirit that can occur. Being clothed with power from on high to preform miraculous signs and wonders.

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Acts 1:8

Acts 4:33 says that God gave apostles. (ambassadors…commissioners….sent with miraculous
power to witness with great grace charis...that is with mighty divine influence.)

When Holy Spirit comes upon some one it is to demonstrate miraculous power.

This power and authority was given to the apostles as well as evangelists and prophets after Pentecost. However, this power and authority has not passed away as some teach. It is given specifically for a particular ministry God raises to be a witness for him in this world. Usually with miraculous signs and wonders.

Can all have this dumanis power come on them for service? I can’t answer that but I do know we can ask for it when we desire to reach others for Jesus or minister to the body of Christ.

Stephen was not one of the original 12 disciples nor did he have first hand testimony of Jesus Christ but he still had a testimony of what good things happened to him through his salvation. Stephen was an evangelist according to the Bible.

Today many apostles as well as evangelists have been given miraculous dumanis power to be witness in this world. To heal, deliver and perform signs and wonders.

Acts 6:8 says that
Stephen was full of faith. (trust in the Lord) and power. (dumanis). He did miraculous miracles, performed supernatural signs among the people.

Paul was not a first hand witness either but he became a believer supernaturally and according to
Romans 15:19 Paul did mighty signs and wonders by the dumanis power of the Holy Spirit. He fully preached the gospel.

Paul said that in 1 Cor. 2:4 that his preaching was not in man’s persuasive words or wisdom but by demonstration of the Holy Spirit in power or dumanis .

I can only tell you what the scriptures tell us about being endued with power from on high but I can also give you a personal example.

Both my husband and I are evangelists. We are highways and byways preachers and ministers.

That is we witness for Jesus Christ every where we go. Although I have worked in many faith based ministries over the years I finally got fed up with the unbelief and boxes I was put in so with God’s direction I went independent. Now I listen to Jesus and do what he tells me to do.

God wants his people to minster in the world. In their neighborhoods and cities. There are too many big shots out there and not enough believers who want to minster in dumanis power in their neck of the woods. That’s what we do. I preach Jesus Christ every where I go and to all kinds of people. From the homeless to clerks and bank tellers.

My husband has a powerful healing anointing. He is a tradesman. God gives him opportunity to minster on his job and in his private life. Every where he goes My husband carries this anointing. I know because one of my gifts from the Lord is the discerning of spirits. I can discern gifts, anointings, hearts, heavenly manifestations and the demonic realm as the Lord wills.

My gifting is different. While I have the Holy Spirit indwelling I also have the Holy Spirit come on me for specific works he wants to perform. I can be feeling normal one minute and the next minute the power of God comes on me to be a witness. When this happens I never know what is going to occur.

Sometimes the conviction of the Holy Spirit falls. He will fall in a bank, a store, the street. People will start feeling uncomfortable. I can see them squirming. Other times they start crying and confessing their sin.

Sometimes the word of knowledge starts operating. Sometimes prophecy. Sometimes the gift of faith comes on me. Sometimes a miracle occurs. Sometimes a deliverance.

This dumanis power comes on me only for a specific work the Lord wants to do. Other wise I’m as normal as can be. My husband on the other hand has an anointing that’s constant even if he is not praying for some one.

I am an intercessor so not only can I feel the Holy Spirit manifestations but I can also feel the demonic. This means many times I’m wrestling for the soul of someone in prayer or some spiritual situation. All I can feel in those many times is the oppression I’m praying against. Its not an easy ministry.

When my husband comes home the whole room fills up with the healing anointing. That’s an upside of being married to him! I start feeling better!

Paul exhorted believers to be filled with joy and peace in the Holy Spirit power. He said to put on the armor of God, be filled with the word of God and continually be filled with the power of God. Romans 15:13, 2: Corinthians 6:7

Each of us have been given gifts and callings from God but we must be endued with dumanis power to perform them. Whether indwelling anointings or endued from on high for specific works.

Not just once but every day. We must draw from the wells of salvation as David exhorted. That means walking holy, being in prayer, and the word.

Eph. 3:7
I was made a minister (servant of the gospel) according to the gift of grace (divine influence) given by the operation or working of God’s dumanis power.

We need to preach God’s word with dumanis power and authority and not by our own abilities. Other wise we will not be truly effective. 1Thessalonians 1:5

Not with man’s wisdom but in the power of God.

Ephesians 3:19

Be filled with or supplied with the Holy Spirit.

To walk in authority over all the works of the evil one we must be continually supplied with dumanis power whether flowing from us, coming on us, or both. This comes from a life dedicated to seeking God and being obedient do what he tells us to do.

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Walk in the Spirit

Scriptures tell us that the Christian’s war is against demonic principalities, evil demonic rulers, and demonic powers in high places, but did you know that the biggest war we wage against is the war against the carnal nature? Demons are like vultures; they can only prey on uncrucified flesh. (Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 2:11)

Our battle according to the Bible, is against the bodily appetites of our 5 senses in this earthly realm which are in constant opposition to God’s word. The bodily appetites of our 5 senses or the carnal nature, are always trying to usurp authority over or exalt themselves above our spiritual born again nature, the Holy Spirit, and the word of God. (2 Corinthians 10:5-7, Galatians 5: 17-26)

 The Bible tells us that out mind is where this battle resides. All the spiritual warfare against the satanic realm we do will be useless unless we put to death or crucify the carnal nature.  (1 Peter 1:13,Galatians 5: 17-26)

 If our ways of thinking are contrary to Biblical principles, then the flesh will have the advantage. That is why it is important to renew the mind with God’s word. When we put Biblical principles above what our 5 carnal senses think or desire then we are operating in faith. (Ephesians 4: 23-27)

Faith in Jesus Christ is the key to all victory. Without faith it is impossible to please God. (Hebrews 11:6) Why?

Because whoever comes to God in faith with their struggle or need, to seek his face for answers, will find that God is both willing and able to move on their behalf. (Hebrews 11:6-8)

 Scriptures tell us not to be conformed to the thinking of this world system but to be renewed in the spirit of our mind so that we will know God’s perfect will for our lives. (Romans 12:2)

Ps 119: 9-11 says that in order for our ways to line up with God’s ways we must seek the Lord with our whole heart. We do this through prayer, meditation and confession of the scriptures. (Psalms 119:15,Matthew 8:8, Romans 10:9,10, 1John 4:2, Jeremiah 1:17, Deuteronomy 18:18)

When the word of God dwells in our heart or spirit, then the word of God, by the Holy Spirit will keep us from yielding to the carnal desires and carnal ways of thinking. (Romans 6:13)

Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the word of God is like a double-edged sword that rightly divides our spirit from our flesh.

Our spirit will not be dictated to by the flesh or carnal nature when it becomes separated unto God. The spirit man must dominate the old man in order to crucify it to the world and to the ungodly desires of the carnal nature.   

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14

Proverbs 23:7 tells us that a man is what he thinks he is. If we think God’s ways, then we will walk in God’s ways.   

The Bible also tells us that the Holy Spirit agrees with the word of God to produce Holy Spirit life in us. We cannot become godly or live a life that pleases God in our own ability. ( 1 John 5:7, Romans 8:8, John 6:63,)

Paul tells us that he kept his body under the control of the Holy Spirit constantly. He died daily to his carnal nature. (1 Cor. 9:27)

Without the Holy Spirit making us born of God we cannot crucify the carnal nature. Religion, which is Christianity without the Holy Spirit, is a mechanical carnal exercise that does not please God. (Romans 8:8) 

Jesus said you MUST be born again to enter into God’s kingdom. Only Holy Spirit can make one born of God. (John 3:3)

 I will give an example of the difference between the religious Christian and the Spiritual Christian.

I watched this documentary about a Savant who was musically “gifted.” His parents spent a lot of money on music teachers so that this kid could become a musical “genius”. When I listened to this savant play his music, I could sense in my spirit that he had a mechanical form of musical genius. This savant had the ability to copy and understand musical concepts, but the music he played sounded like it had no “soul.” Although he played well without any error, the sound he produced was a mechanical sound.

I wondered why this would be so. Then when a musician began to play along with this savant in a duet performance, immediately I sensed a big difference between them.

The musician’s playing had life or “soul.” My Spirit felt uplifted when I listened to his playing. Then when the Savant began to play, I understood what I was discerning. The Savant had a form of musical talent, but he did not have a real gift for music. He had a learned structural performance that was very mechanical. His music lacked “life.”

The savant knew all the cords and the structure of music, but he did not have a real feel for music. He had no inspirational influence.

If our ears are opened by the Holy Spirit it is impossible to be fooled by the mechanical performance of the religious Christian. It may look like a good performance but when the real Holy Spirit filled Christian comes along and operates in the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit, you will immediately sense the difference.

You will sense the life of the Spirit, the supernatural gift of God residing in the Holy Spirit filled Christian. (dunamis power)

The mechanical performance of the religious “Christian” is pale in comparison to the Holy Spirit inspired life of a born again Christian.

 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 2 Timothy 3:5-

The word of God and the Holy Spirit work together to crucify the carnal nature. We must have both in order to perform the Lord’s good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13)

When the word of God dwells in our hearts by faith, and is ignited by the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit then we will produce a life that pleases God. A Holy Spirit inspired life!

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Be a Light

     

While today we think of “offend” as insulting one’s standard or principles, the Bible has a different definition.

Depending on the context of the verse, the word ‘offense’ in the Bible does not have the same connotations as our English word for an offense. To offend someone does not mean to insult someone’s principles but rather to cause someone to fall.

‘Offend’ in Hebrew has several definitions, but all pertain to the same concept. It can be translated as châbal, which means to pervert, corrupt, or spoil.

 ‘Offend’can be translated as bâgad, which means to deal deceitfully, treacherously, or unfaithful. It can be mikshôl, a stumbling block, or to cause to fall. It can be âsham which means to perish, become desolate, be found guilty, to trespass.

In Greek, the word offend can be translated as skandalizō skandalon or ptaiō, which all mean to entrap, trip up, to entice to sin, to cause to stumble.

In effect, “to offend,” according to the scriptural meaning, is to cause someone to fall, be a stumbling block, corrupt, cause to err, pervert, spoil,

Jesus tells us what he thinks about offending others.

But whoso shall offend one of these little ones who believe in me, it was better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Matthew 18:6

The epistles of the apostles reiterate this admonition.

But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. 1 Corinthians 8:9

Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. Roman’s 14:13

The Bible tells us to try and live our lives so that our conscience is clean. Even if it means giving up something that would cause others to reject Jesus Christ. In this way, we can be a witness in the world.

Now we will not be able to please everyone, and some people will find fault with us no matter how holy we live, but we must not deliberately offend or be nonchalant in our Christian witness.

Paul said he became all things to all people to win them to Christ. In other words, wherever he went, he respected (within reason) the culture he was in. He maintained his Christian witness while not offending anyone on purpose.

To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 1 Corinthians 9:22

The cross in and of itself is an offense to some people. Some will act up if they are offended by the gospel. If they do, they may cause themselves to stumble away from the truth. (1 Corinthians 1:22)

However, as Christians, we must, in all good conscience, live in the light, follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, and not be a stumbling block deliberately to another person.

That means not causing anyone to do anything against their conscience or doing anything in front of someone that may cause them to fall, even if we have the liberty to do it.

Jesus gave us an example in the scriptures. He paid his taxes so as not to offend and took a lowly position to not offend. He lived a humble lifestyle even though he was a King. 

Jesus fulfilled all righteousness. He did not live a lavish lifestyle or sit with famous people. Instead, he ate with sinners to reach them with the gospel message. 

Jesus remained humble throughout his walk on this earth. He has called his sheep to do the same. Just as Jesus laid down his life to benefit others, so should we lay down our lives for the benefit of others. It does not matter if it causes discomfort, rejection, or ridicule.

What matters is that we refrain from offending by not putting a stumbling block before others.

A perfect example is Paul’s attitude in dealing with the Corinthians.

Wherefore, if meat causeth my brother to stumble, I will eat no flesh for evermore, that I cause not my brother to stumble.

1 Corinthians 8:13

Dear Father, in Jesus’ name, help us to not be a stumbling block to others in this world. Give us your wisdom in every situation. Let your light shine through us. Amen 

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Abide in the Vine

In John Chapter 15, Jesus gives a parable about a vineyard.

He says that he is the true vine, the Father is the Farmer and his disciples are the branches.

Just as a branch cannot produce fruit without the vine neither can we produce fruit without Jesus Christ.

Every branch in Jesus Christ is pruned so that it will produce fruit. No fruit can be produced without pruning.

Pruning is a part of growing in the Lord. Pruning requires taking away the old so that the new will grow.

This process can be painful. We are set in our ways and don’t like change. But in order to produce Holy Spirit fruit in our lives we must yield to the pruning process. Out with the old man filled with dry old ways of doing things and yielding to the sharp pruning tools of the Father.

Jesus tells us to abide in him. Continue in his word which is able to make us into what the Lord wants us to be. Filled with Holy Spirit fruit!

Just as a vine cannot produce fruit by itself neither can we produce fruit without Jesus Christ.

If we continue in the Lord we will produce much fruit.

Pruning the vine every spring just before growth begins allows the branches to have enough air movement around them to reduce disease.

Heavy pruning of the vine provides the best fruit.

While pruning may be needed throughout the year, pruning is best done when the vine is dormant, just before growth begins in spring.

Dormancy is when the plant slows down. Its metabolism, energy consumption, and growth are at a slow pace.

Sometimes when we seem to be inactive, placed on the shelf, that is when the pruning happens. Our lives in a winter stage while seeming to be going no where are in reality being pruned.

Reflection. Repentance. Seeking the Lord. Searching for answers. Giving up of sin. Intense prayer. Dying to self.

The winter stage many times can be rough going but harsh winters with much pruning produce a great harvest of fruit.

In order for a grape vine to flourish it must have plenty of sun shine. In the same way we must have plenty of Holy Spirit saturation.

If a vine has little light it will eventually dry up and die.

In his presence is fullness of joy. We get inspired in God’s presence, strengthened and empowered.

Being in the sun reduces pest problems too. That old devil and his varmints hate the light. The more light the less devil problems.

The vine also needs plenty of water for the roots to grow and expand deep into the ground. The branches can’t produce a healthy life flow without plenty of the water.

Being watered with the word makes us grow in the Lord.

Without the water of the word our roots will shrivel and die or at the very least be stunted in growth.

Roots need to be soaked in water before planting. This is significant because a vine produces healthy branches only after a deep saturation.

The more of the word we are saturated in, the more we become grounded in the truth. It is hard to dig up deep rooted plants.

It is interesting to note that a grapevine needs some type of support system or the branches will trail along the ground. In the same way we need support to grow properly. Without proper support the Lord’s disciples will become bogged down, carrying a lot of burden.

Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

Another important factor in a healthy vineyard is to weed constantly. If weeds grow under the grape vine the soil temperature will stay cooler. This will delay growth.

The cares of this life if not dealt with will choke the branches from receiving life from the vine. We need to hoe out all those worldly cares and troubles. Being diligent to guard our hearts against anything that will clog up our spiritual life.

Jesus tells us that if we continue in him then we will be fruitful but if not then we will wither and possibly die.

A healthy branch abides in the vine and produces much fruit!

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. John 15:7-9

God Declares HIS Word.

  

Have you heard of the idiom ‘don’t put the cart before the horse’?

What it means is to do things in the correct order.

A spiritual principle many get out of order is the act of declaration.

To declare is to say something emphatically or to make it officially known.

A recent Christian trend today is to “declare God’s word.”

While it is true that God’s word has the power to save, heal, provide, and deliver, what is not true is that if you declare God’s word enough times, it will cause miracles to happen.

This is not a Biblical concept. Let me explain.

To declare in Hebrew is nâgad which means to announce, expose, predict, or profess. To bring a report or speak forth an utterance.

Let’s look at the word used in context.

According to Genesis 41:24 the King of Babylon asked his magicians to interpret his dream, but they could not declare it. In other words, magicians cannot declare a thing that God has hidden.

We know, however, from that story that Daniel could interpret the dream after he prayed and fasted because God revealed the information to him. ‘Then Daniel brought forth the interpretation to the king.’

In Deuteronomy 1:5 Moses declared the law to the people.

Remember that the law was given to Moses through revelation from God. After the law was revealed to him, then he declared it.

In Judges 12:12-14, Samson put forth a riddle and asked the Philistines to declare it to him, but they could not. So the Philistines used devious methods through Delilah to obtain the interpretation of the riddle.

In Kings Chapter 22, we see that Micaiah declared the word of the Lord while the other prophets said the word out of their own hearts to please the king. I guess they valued their heads more than God’s revealed word.

In the book of Job, we find God demanding Job to declare to him all his mysteries since Job thought he had the mind of God and knew all the answers.

In Psalms 2:7, David says he will declare the word God has spoken unto him. David often declared God’s word that was revealed to him.

Now let’s go to the New Testament.

Declare in Greek is phrazō which means to indicate by word or act. To expound upon.

Matthew tells us that Jesus declared to his disciples what his parables meant. He expounded to them his word. He taught them his truths. 

John 17: 26, relaying Jesus’ prayer to the Father, Jesus said that he had declared his word to his disciples. He taught them. 

In Acts 13, the disciples declared the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. They were taught God’s word. 

Paul and John declare Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord in the book of Romans and other epistles. They were taught God’s word. 

Do you see a pattern here?

When the word “declare” is used in scriptures, it is used to announce a particular truth of God that is revealed to a person.

That being said, the word “declare” is not used in reference to making something happen or to repeat until something manifests itself. 

It is used when the word of God is revealed or expounded upon, which brings revelation to the recipient. You will know the truth when the word of God is declared to you! 

When the word is revealed, it is declared according to the publishing of it for a divine purpose.

The scriptures being declared at random to receive an outcome of one’s desire is not a Biblical concept.

Why, then, do people do it? Probably to try and force God to do what they want.

When used in that way, declaration actually becomes a form of manipulation. Manipulating through the use of scripture for personal benefit.

In its proper order, when we declare the word of God, the Lord has revealed it to us by his Holy Spirit; it is for his purposes. What is revealed in scripture many times has perquisites attached to them. Unless one is in obedience to the perquisite, it is a useless objective to declare that particular word.

For example, if I declare that God is the healer, but I am still addicted to something and won’t give it up, it is useless to declare divine health! 

As the Lord reveals his word to our hearts and we walk in obedience to that revealed word, then we can be assured that God’s word declared to us will come to pass!

Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Ephesians 6:2 Honor thy Father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise) that it may be well with thee,

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.

Isaiah 26:3, Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee.

1 John 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.

Deuteronomy. 11:26-28 Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse; A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day: And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God.” 

In conclusion, when we declare God’s word revealed to us by the Holy Spirit we should obey it! Then God will bring to pass what he has said to us through his word. 

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Faithful Promises!

Satanic forces are in opposition to our prayers. They want to stop the answers from materializing.

The powers of darkness cannot stop our victory but they most certainly can hinder. So don’t get discouraged over a set back. It’s just the devil putting out his resistance.

PAUL said that he wanted to go and preach in a certain area but the devil hindered him. The devil can hinder but never stop God’s plans. In fact when Satan hinders he usually shoots himself in the foot because it ends up working out for our good anyway!

Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us. 1Thessalonians 2:18

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Satan tried to hinder Daniel’s prayers but persistence in prayer perservered and won the victory!

 “Then he said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia. Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come.” Daniel 10:12-14

God gave David a vision. He told him what he was going to do and what the outcome of prayer would accomplish. The Lord has his watchman on the walls and they are in intercession. These watchman are not going to give God any rest until they get their answer. They are determined to pray and never give up.

This promise is yet to be fully realized but it will happen! The Lord has spoken!

I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the Lord, keep not silence, give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth. Isaiah 62:6,7

The Lord also tells us we need to put action to our faith.

Vs. 10 of Isaiah Chapter 62 the Lord gives some strong DO words.

Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the people; cast up, cast up the highway; gather out the stones; lift up a standard for the people.”

When we pray we need to look at how we can prepare the way. Do we have some house cleaning to do? Are there stones in our gardens that need removing? Do we need to be a positive influence some where? How about casting forth that evangelism net if we want revival?

The Bible does say that faith without works is dead being alone. That is a spiritual principle. In other words if we are not actively living out that prayer request then we do not really believe the answer is on its way.

We need to act like we already have the answer if we know that it’s God’s will. This shows the devils that we are not looking at their garbage being thrown at us but rather we are looking to our God who has promised and is faithful to perform his promise.

Behold, the Lord hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him,” Isaiah 62:11

Yes, God hears our prayer. No matter how impossible they seem!

If we continue to abide, be faithful and patient, the Lord will bring the victory!

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; for he is faithful that promised. Hebrews 10:23

RESTING IN CHRIST

Resting in the finished work of Christ is the key to walking in victory. Regardless of how much we apply Biblical principles to our life, unless we have this main key to the kingdom of God, we will find failure at the end sooner or later.

What is resting in Christ’s complete work? It is a spiritual principle that is set right out in scriptures but missed by many of us.

One sure way to know that we are not resting in Christ is striving. That is to make great effort to achieve something.

When we find ourselves in this state we know right away that we are not resting. Then we must get immediately back to the cross.

Does resting in Christ equate to passivity? No indeed it does not! What resting in Christ does is to set our eyes on the victor for the victory and not on ourselves.

To rest in Christ is to set the Lord always before us. That is to acknowledge Jesus as our Captain. Our leader and victor over all difficulties that may come our way.

Paul knew this resting in Christ. He said that the life he now lived he lived by the faith of Jesus Christ. Paul knew that he was accepted in the beloved. How could Christ who loved us enough to give his very life for us not also supply us with all the things we need to live victorious in this life?

To rest in Christ is to rest in his finished work. He beat the devil! He conquered sin! Jesus rose victorious!

What is our part? To rest in this fact! When we do we can be assured that Christ who lives in us will complete all the work that is needed in our lives.

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Resting in Christ is to abide in Christ. To accept what Christ says as true. To remain fixed in. To continue to dwell in. To remain in.

“If you abide in me,” Jesus said and his words or his teachings abide in you then you shall ask what you will and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7)

In other words all the things that we need will be given to us as we rest in Christ. To rest is to have complete faith in the Lord’s ability to perform his word. It is to nestle in his bosom with absolute confidence. Does the Lord not know what is best for each of us? Is his plan not the best plan?

Have faith in God!

Faith is the substance of things hoped for. Faith in the finished work of Christ gives us hope. We never have to be worried that Jesus will not come through. He has promised! If he loved us enough to give his life for us how much more would he not freely meet our needs? We have only to patiently wait. (Romans 8:32)

Resting in Christ is to set our eyes on Jesus who is the author and the finisher of our faith. He will prefect that which concerns us as we trust in him!

It is Christ who lives! Christ who has conquered! Christ who is Lord of all! We rest in these facts and abide in his love.

Jesus is all our righteousness! He is working all things out for our good as scriptures tell us. (Romans 8:28)

We are complete in him!

And you are complete in him, who is the head of all principality and power:” Colossians 2:10

To be complete is to have all things without lacking. It is to be full and entirely in Christ! Can you see this by faith? IN CHRIST!

Jesus is the head of all principality and power. That means that because we are seated with him in heavenly places we are also positioned with him high above the rulers of this dark world. We are more than conquerors because we are in him! Let us rest in this knowledge!

Jesus is the name above every name. His victory is our victory. His completed work is our completed work because we are in him! Can you see this by faith? Then you are resting! Resting in assurity that Jesus Christ is the head. The chief and principle power of all in this life. If you are in him then you are secure. Rest in this reality.

It is finished Jesus said. Whether we are wrestling in prayer, serving, teaching or ministering we are always resting in Christ. Always confident that we are more than conquerors through Christ who loved us and gave himself for us.

Are you resting in Christ today? If not won’t you get back to the cross? The place of your victory is there! The work has already been done! (Romans 8: 37)

No Condemnation!

Romans Chapter 8 says that those who are in Jesus Christ, (that is those born again and, in his salvation,) are not condemned by God if they are not walking after the carnal nature but are walking in the Holy Spirit.

What does it mean to be condemned? In English it means to have disproval. To criticize something or someone strongly.

The Greek word is katakrima which means to come under penalty. To pass judgement against.

Romans Chapter 8 goes on to tell us that if we are minding carnal things rather than spiritual things then we are in enmity with God. In other words, if we are living for the flesh (the body, which is living for the passions and sensual appetites) temporal, worldly, or secular things then we are in a hostile opposing position with God. This makes us under condemnation. God disproves of us and our life styles!

Living in the flesh or carnal nature has grave consequences for the Christian. Romans 8 tells us that it produces death in us.

Jesus died to set us free from sin, but we must cooperate with that spiritual position that he has provided. Living by the carnal nature brings only death. What is death? Failure, sickness, poverty, demonic oppression, depression. Any thing contrary to the abundant life which Jesus died to purchase for us.

Romans Chapter 8 tells us that if we live under the law in order to gain God’s approval then we will fail miserably in our lives. Also, we will still be in enmity with God anyway because the law has no power to conquer sin. All the law does is expose our sin. “You lied. Bad you!”

Jesus came to give a better way. He said to his disciples that when he went away, he would send the Holy Spirit to help us in our weakness. The flesh is weak and cannot keep the law. Only God can keep the law.

Did you know that if you are born again that God lives in you? Yes, he does but many Christians who are ignorant of this reality are living still under the law. They don’t understand that the same power that lived in Jesus Christ, that performed miracles and raised Jesus from the dead, actually lives in them!

Romans 8 tells us to walk in the Spirit and we will not fulfill the desires of the sinful body. Which is going to be thrown into the trash heap one day and we will get a new one that is not subject to sin!

What does it mean to walk in the Spirit? Well to walk is to take a journey. Our life in this world is a journey towards eternity! We are called to walk with God! Not walking in our own ways but walking in God’s way.

He hath showed thee, O man, what is good, and what doth Jehovah require of thee, but to do judgment and the love of mercy, and to humble thyself by walking with thy God? (Micah 6:8)

Holy Spirit who lives in us is our helper and teacher. We need to acknowledge Holy Spirit and depend on him for everything. Did you know that the Holy Spirit wants to help you? Yes, he does but you have got to ask him. He won’t impose on you.

And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Luke 11:9

Romans Chapter 8 tells us that the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. Don’t know how to pray effectively? Ask Holy Spirit. He will show you. Need comfort? Need revelation? Need wisdom? Need strength? Need provision? Just ask Holy Spirit and he will help you!

Jesus Christ provided for us a new covenant with a new and better way of living. The law can never conquer the sinful nature. The way to have victory over sin and the devil is life in the Holy Spirit!

If we walk with God on our journey to eternity we will not be under condemnation because we will not be fulfilling the lusts of the flesh. Rather we will be living our life under the control of the Holy Spirit!

Walking with God by the Holy Spirit is the abundant life promised to us by Jesus Christ.   

Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24

THE GOSPEL BOOTS

Part of our spiritual warfare armor is the gospel boots. Let’s take a look at what the Bible has to say concerning this part of our armor.

Ephesians Chapter 6 vs 15

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

The KJV uses the Greek word hetoimasia which means preparation.

To be in a constant state of readiness or make ready for use.

In other words we must always be prepared to minister the gospel at all times.

How do we prepare? Scriptures tell us it is by studying the Bible.

2 Timothy 2 : 15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

We need to know the Bible in order to answer people who ask us questions about our faith. Now we don’t have to go to theological school in order to do this. In fact, many times people just end up being indoctrinated with denominational interpretations that omit or add their own take or lean on scriptures anyway.

It is best according to any lawyer, good journalist, writer or historian to research all angles of interpretation in order to get a balanced view. Bias always resides in the mindsets of men.

Even God says that out of two or three witnesses is truth established. (1 Corinthians 13:1)

Our doctrinal lean should always line up with the Bible and not any man made versions of a scriptural doctrine.

We must know the truth in order to share the truth. How can we minister to an unsaved person Bible truth if we don’t know Bible truth?

The Bible tells us to be prepared at all times in order to present the gospel of peace to others. What is this peace? Peace with God through Jesus Christ the Savior.

The Gospel boots not only prepare us to present the gospel message but they are also used to wage war against the devil.

During Roman times the soldier wore a sandal called a Caligae. This sandal actually had nail like studs embedded in the sole. These boots or sandals were deigned to march for long periods of time but they were also used as deadly weapons. A solder could take off his shoe and club the enemy to death with it.

That is what the gospel boots do too. They take us into all the world to preach the gospel of peace and they are also used to clobber the devil with. Every time we minister the word of God to someone we are beating the day lights out of that old devil.

Put on those gospel boots today! Be prepared and ready to preach the good news! At all times, in all places and every where you go!

ROMANS 15: 29

And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.


Walking Wise

David walked wise before the Lord and he was blessed with God’s favor.

And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the Lord was with him. Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them. 1 Samuel 18:14-23

That was until David fell into temptation.

And it came to pass in an evening, that David arose from off his bed, and walked on the roof of the king’s house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look on. 2 Samuel 11:2

What happened to cause this change? Lets take a look at what it means to walk wisely with the Lord.

Wisely in Hebrew is ώâkal and it means to make or act circumspectly with intelligence, prudence and understanding, skillfully, considerately and self controlled.

What triggered David to sin and fall away from the Lord? What caused him to behave so foolishly?

Was it really his lust for Bathsheba or was it something even deeper?

The manifestation of our sin is only a symptom of a deeper heart problem that we have. So we need to take a closer look at our heart. Lets look at David’s sin a little deeper.

When David had all the women he could ever ask for why did he want this one? Being beautiful is not really why David was tempted. He was surrounded with beautiful women. He could have any virgin in the land and even in another land.

Was David’s sin really a pride issue? After all why should a Hittite have something that he didn’t? That guy is only a Hittite not a King like me! He doesn’t deserve a beautiful woman like that! I’m the king of Israel for goodness sake! That woman ought to be mine!

Wasn’t there someone else who said that?

Blinded by his gifting. Wanting more than he was given? Jealous because a mere mortal was given stewardship over the garden of God? Wanting to change the order of things? Who was God to tell him that he didn’t deserve a higher place?

I will ascend up high!
I will walk on the mountain of God!
I’m just as gifted as that guy! Why look at how beautiful I am?

Yes, I’m inclined to think that it was really pride that caused David to fall.

Pride comes in many forms but if there is one thing that will make us fall flat on our backsides its self exaltation.

Thinking of ourselves more highly than we ought to think! (Romans 12:3, Proverbs 3:7)

Envy is the rottenness of the bones. It will eat away at the heart like a cancer. (Proverbs 14:30)

Godliness with contentment is great gain the Bible tells us. (1 Timothy 6:6)

But I am so gifted! You might be inclined to say. I have a theology degree after all and not to mention a powerful anointing!

I deserve to be promoted! I worked hard to be where I’m at!
Why should that guy have a higher position than me?

That’s just the point! Our gifts can blind us to our real position in the Kingdom of God. One of being a servant to the most high God!

Do you really think God needs us to get his work done? Do we see our importance as being essential in the big scheme of things?

When David walked wisely before the Lord he was blessed. When he submitted to doing God’s work God’s way he prospered.

That’s where the blessing lies! Being small in our own eyes and great in faith towards the one who deserves all the glory and the honor! Pride will always lead to a fall! (Proverbs 16:18)

Pride is the root of discontentment. Not being joyful in where we are at!

Sometimes it takes a fall like David had to make us see our foolishness. God is gracious however because when we recognize our sin and confess our pride to him, he will restore us. (1 John 1:9)

The Lord restored David and he wants to restore us too.

Then like David we can be content and say. “The Lord is my portion says my soul and my cup.” Psalms 16:5

Be content and walk wise before the Lord then you will be blessed in all you do!