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What is God's commandment from the book of Genesis

Most people keep?

Be fruitful, multiply, replenish and fill the earth.

We are 7 billion strong!

New Title


After reading about a Black female Tecky Chaplain on Wikipedia, I have decided upon a new title for myself. I am a
“Tecky Techno Urban Missionary Chaplain”



God's People (Kirk Franklin)


GP's perish for they don't lookup the meanings of KJV words in a Strongs or Youngs concordance, for they are without excuse.

All the KJV study helps are available for download free with Bible software programs.

Word Studies


From: the Strong's Talking Greek & Hebrew Dictionary, a Wordsearch.com free KJV Bible download.

Leasing
Hebrew Strong's Number: 3577
from (kazab); falsehood; literal (untruth) or
figurative (idol) :- deceitful, false, leasing, + liar, lie, lying.

Psalm
4:2 (KJV)
O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how longwill ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah.

Psalm
5:6 (KJV)
Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.

Paps
Greek Strong's Number: 3149
from the base of (massaomai); a (properly a female breast)

Luke 11:27-28 (KJV)
And it came to pass, as he spake, a certain woman of the company said unto Jesus, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps (properly female breast) which thou hast sucked…

Oh Give Thanks unto the LORD for He is good

The LORD is my Shepherd. I shall not want for He lay me down in green pastures. The grass is not greener on the other side.

Though I walk under the shadow of death He prepares meals for me in the midst of my enemies. His rod and His staff comfort me and protect me. Thank you LORD.

The KJV Bible has been banned because of too much weeping and gnashing of teeth.


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Friday, August 31, 2012

Is There a Bomb in Gilead




IS THERE A BOMB IN GILEAD?

LIGHTNING,
          THUNDER,
                  EARTHQUAKES...

A third of the stars fall from the sky, God who sits high and mighty on His throne in heaven gave the order. Michael the Arc Angel led the troops into battle. Cast from heaven they are all on Earth, which is now their dwelling place. Sin was found in their leader. All of his followers were in rebellion against God almighty. Planted in the battle field, placed on earth is mankind created and dwells there too, the third heaven for some of us and hell for others. These are the fallen Angels and Satan once called Lucifer. Lost forever is his name and his place in heaven. Who can hope to survive in this terrible environment?

They talk to me all the time telling me negative things. I know now these thoughts are not my own. The mind is the battle field. The enemies of God want to reign on this planet. And the only way to control man is through his mind. Take control of the mind and mastery of the body will follow. They try to discourage me. They tell me the things I ought not to do. I know better though. Sometimes I don't know if what I do is right or wrong. I have to fight my own battle in my head. I know I'm forgiven. Jesus took care of that, but I can't forget my past. Only God can forget. All my sins have been cast into the sea of forgetfulness. I spend time in Gods word, which is my only refuge.

There is no quality time for study. I must do it all the time. There are no time outs in the study of Gods word. Sometimes as the battle rages in me and around me, I have to rely on the word that is buried in my heart. No time to find the book of righteousness. Warring makes study difficult at times. That is why I must study all the time to be ready for the next battle. There is a time for study, and there is a time for warfare.

Lord have mercy on me I pray. Deliver me from this torment. I have begun to discern the things of the Spirit. The thoughts that come into my mind I try to divide from my own. Some thoughts I know I would not think of by exercise, by taking time out to sort through the many thoughts going through my head. I go to that secret place and listen. Then I think a thought. Yes, that one is mine. No, that one is not. Do I hear from the Lord and the angels that minister to me?

There are times I hear encouragement. I feel comforted. I meditate on what I have read in Gods word. I even do sermons in my head. Oh how I wish I could share these sermons with others, but time passes and there is no one to hear them. I can't even remember them the way I developed them in my head. Great sermons I think! Maybe they are just for me. Perhaps during these trials my spirit prepares them just for me, and they come to my conscious mind.

Who is the greatest preacher in the world today? I, am. We all need to feel that way. No one can preach the gospel like I can. No one has gone through the things I have. No one is going through the things I'm going through today. God has prepared me, and each of us to deliver the gospel to the world. The most effective way is one on one. Pulpit ministries are good, but for the most part people come there prepared to hear the gospel.

We have to bring Church to the streets. To those who are waiting for God to come to them instead. For what ever reason. You have to prove yourself before they are ready to listen to you. They also have the opportunity to question everything you say and confront you at any time. There are many times opportunities present themselves. Perhaps these battles are turned into opportunities to prepare myself for a one on one encounter. When they present themselves I am ready.

Is there a balm to ease my aching mind? Is there a soothing cool ointment? Jesus is a balm in Gil e add and with him is a host of Angels, the other two thirds who did not fall. They come to minister to me and others. There is a war in the heavens, a constant battle for our soul salvation. Cast down from heaven the fallen Angels are our foes. Led by Satan once called Lucifer, he wants to kill, steal and destroy our mortal bodies. He wants us to join him in the Lake of Fire.

He wants to use us, this planet and all its inhabitants. He wants to be like God. That is his problem. There is only one God, King of kings, Lord of all, over all dominion's, principalities, and powers in heaven and earth. He allows Satan to continue. But to Satan's dismay God is magnified and exhalted throughout the land in God's children, who are a witness to his grace and power, and by his other angels who stand fast.

Even the Angels who were spared God's wrath marvel at man. How God continues to use them and save them. One at a time we come forth and the Angels rejoice. I imagine there is a constant roar in heaven as the Angels praise God when each one comes forth to know Christ as their Personal Savior. How long do they rejoice over a lost soul being found I don't know?

They probably rejoice for themselves as well. They could have been cast down from heaven as well. But God elected them, and his children on earth before the foundation, the solar systems were even made. Oh how magnificent are his ways and thoughts far above what we can even hope to imagine. That he would even think to save me and you.

How can I a mortal man defeat such an enemy as Satan. He has been around a long time, since the beginning of time warring against the saints. He has been accusing the saints even though we have been forgiven Jesus having paid the price for our souls. He has had a lot of practice. His army of evil: Powers, Principalities, Rulers of darkness, and Spiritual Wickedness in high places, like an army are all in place. Angels from heaven have to pass through this wall of intrusion to minister to us.

It is amazing how some people are so quick to accuse others when that is one of the tools of Satan. He is the accuser of the brethren. Should they not instead offer forgiveness and reconciliation? You know God has given us, the Church, the ministry of reconciliation. We are therefore reconciled unto Christ for all of our sins. Let us be reconciled with our brothers and sisters. Let us move on to the greater things in him. At judgment day Christ will hold us all accountable for the works we do here on earth. Let Him be the judge.

Sometimes I have to wait on my help, some how I endure. Many others are not even aware of their presence, the bomb in Gil e add. Pawns they are to the whims of the Devil. All I can do is wait until my help comes, until they stop pursuing me. My victory is in the Lord. He delivers me every time.

What do they want from me, to stop serving God? To stop being a COG in His wheel, and become a CLOG in his drain? No way! What greater calling is there than to be a Child Of God? To be submitted to the will of God no matter where it may take you, or how it affects your life, and the lives of others? God is a mystery. His mysteries are revealed to his children alone.
                   
For what purpose did God place man in this predicament? Does this battle help lead to my perfection? Am I being transformed into a spirit? Has my spirit man been awakened in me? Has my Spirit become strong enough to come forth and fight my battle, while my fleshly body pertains to the things of this world? We are spirit, mind and body. Can all three operate independently as well as together, separate but one?

We are to separate ourselves from this world. We are to live in it as well. As Paul said, "Fleeing all fornications and adulteries so that we could do that what we would. Fornication means idolatry." How many of us are willing to find out, that what we would, when we don't know what that is, that we would do? We are so busy mimicking the world system, in pursuit of, or worrying about, what we would not be able to do, instead of looking forward to, what we would be able to do.

That which is a mystery and has to be revealed to us by God. Finding solace in the Comfort Zone, and fearing the Twilight Zone, they won't pursue the Would Zone. There is no growth in the Comfort Zone. The Twilight Zone is fear which by the way is not of God but of the Devil, and they are not even aware of the Would Zone which is revealed by walking with God.

His Kingdom is not of this world. They don't study the Bible enough. They rely on what they hear only, and only remember in part. The key to remembering much is to study the same thing over and over again until you know it well for yourself. If you forget, look it up. So when you do hear you can add to what you already know, instead of review.

The only way we can find out what we would, is to flee these things. That means leaving the security of what we know, the things of the flesh, to that which we don't know, the things of the Spirit. How many are willing to take that risk into the unknown?

The things of the Spirit cannot be understood by those who are walking in the flesh. So who can explain it to them? A spiritual man understands the things of the flesh as well, but the things of the Spirit can not be received by those who do not desire to take a walk in the Spirit. They have to step out in faith, and experience it for themselves.

How can two walk together unless they agree? So they look at others, and see their gifts in operation and say things like, "I wish I had your gift." But do they really? Or they say, "They don't teach that in my church." Then they go back to their Comfort Zone. Among others that won't venture out either.

They go back to the world trying to compete with it and maintain some sense of Spirituality. Buying a new car on credit thinking that is how God blesses. What about purchasing a library of Bible study aids? Why not enroll in a Bible College or Seminary?
                   
It never ceases to amaze me when preachers preach against a formal Bible education, and instead encourage people to get a secular education so they can make money, money, money. Why not Bible, Bible, Bible? Can't you trust God to lead you in your studies? Where do you think the God gifted teachers of Ephesians chapter 4 verse 11 are?

Doesn't it occur to them that they might be teaching in schools? That the Sunday school curriculum might be too elementary? That there are perhaps deeper studies in God's word? They might even discover the verse that say's

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

There were schools for prophets in the Old Testament. Elijah stopped by one and picked up Elisha his successor. Guess who got the mantle and a double anointing? The Old and New Testament fathers were well studied men, scholars of the law and the prophets. Paul who wrote most of the epistles to the churches studied under Gamaliel, a Pharisee and celebrated doctor of the law. After he was born again God brought understanding to Paul of that which he had studied, as well as revelation. After much study comes inspiration, illumination, and revelation.

You should never be satisfied with your level of spirituality. Elisha wanted a double portion. To become comfortable is to stop the development of your spirituality. You must leave all things behind and press on towards the higher callings in Christ Jesus. It is a total faith walk. It is a forward momentum not a stopping place.

And there is no turning back. I believe that is what scares people the most. If they go too far they can't come back to that old Comfort Zone. They remember what it cost them just to get where they are. Now they just want to enjoy the earth and the fullness there of which by the way is misinterpreting what God is trying to tell us.

It is not of meat, drink, cars and homes, but a oneness with God and above all spirituality, for God is a Spirit and those who worship him must do so in spirit and truth. God’s word is the truth. When Christ comes we will be like him; perfected. It takes all of Gods gifts to the Church to perfect the saints.

My weapons against the powers of darkness are not the weapons devised by man. No they don't work against Spiritual forces. I have to pray. I have to read Gods word and meditate day and night on what I have read. The gifts of the Spirit must be in operation and exercised. The more I know of God's word, the truth the stronger more self-assured I become. The more I battle against the enemy, the more I exercise my gifts, the stronger I become.

I have to be clean, way down on the inside. So far down the enemy forces can't reach me there. The forces coming against me decrease in number to just a few, and then even those have to retreat. God will make you clean inside. Defeat is imminent for the enemy of both God and man. His time is short according to God. But for me a thousand years is just one day in Gods time. I don't have that long to live here on earth. But during this time I have work to do. And I'm not talking about an eight hour a day job.

Long suffering: Some try to call this word patience, but I saw in Scripture where both words were used in the same sentence. Jesus suffered long in His 32 years of life as a man, but also when He was separated from the Father when He became sin for us. Took it away, therefore taking away the sting of death for those who believe on His name. That must have been an eternity for Him, and facing the Devil alone. But He is God, and I am not. I have no desire to become God.

The battle rages. During the breaks I spend time with God. I know He's always there but I miss Him. His personal, secure touch is always there. He watches over me. I hope he says this is my son. Watch him I know he will endure. If I can just endure I know there is salvation at the end.

God rescues me all the time. That is when he is most truly real to me! Sometimes at the point of giving up, he throws a life preserver. I get that phone call I was waiting for after several failed attempts on my part. Somebody comes by and talks to me and gives me words of encouragement at just the right time. Or I minister to someone that ministers to me as well. I could go on and on about his salvation.

Once I even felt as if someone was giving me a push. Like a hand would periodically press against my backpack as I walked down the street urging me to continue walking, prodding me along. I could not help but giggle.

I believe that is the meaning of salvation that the Lord brings into a believers life. Romans then talks about how Israel needs to be saved, but they must be born again first, receive the righteousness that only comes from Christ, and faith in Him. Then they could be part of the *whosoever* call's on the name of Jesus shall be saved. I call on that great name all the time. But first you have to believe on whom you call. Hey, people call the police all the time. They believe in them and the authority behind them. Jesus on earth got His authority from God in heaven, but now all power is in His name. Call on Him.

The prophets and preachers sent could not convince Israel about Christ. Preachers today can't do it. They would not listen to them. People today won't listen. So in Romans chapter eleven, God said that he saved a remnant of them. That is how all Israel is saved, a remnant through election Gods sovereign choice of whom he wants in his kingdom. God saves us that way too.

God calls a people unto Himself all by Himself. Somehow we are part of the process of bringing others to Christ. Are you part of that remnant that God elected and saves? Ask God. Seek His face with all your mind body and soul. Receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
                   
Salvation is nothing short of a miracle. The world is in search of a miracle. Blind to all those miracles around them that have become common place. I bet if I could go back in time, drive up and pick up Jesus in a Lexus, People would think it a miracle. Fortunately Jesus only asked for an ass to ride into town. I don't think Jesus presented anymore than the people were ready for. Salvation is the greatest of all miracles. Just think God would take time out just to save me and you.

I have my own observation about the miracles or creations devised by man, such as the Lexus automobile. I call it the sand box theory. Remember when we were kids? We would build castles in the sand and we thought we really did something. But who provided the sand? Or who took us to the beach?

God has created a sand box called Earth for us to play in. Anything we create is made from its substance provided by God. How can we then take credit for it? How then can we throw our creations in the face of God and say, "Look what we did! We don't need you!" Kind of stupid don't you think?

There is a final place for the fallen Angels the Lake of Fire. Satan is destined to be there too. So many people will join him there. Why do they submit their will to Satan and fallen Angels? Why don't they believe God or even try to?

Satan and the fallen Angels are liars. Tempting people to desire things that they can see, feel, hear, smell, wear, buy, etc. All these things will pass away but God's word will always be the same.

People will always be the same. In fact we are really doing no more than we've ever done as people: eat, drink work, sleep, reproduce, and party. For some reason we think a $50,000 Lexus to take you a hundred miles to work every day is better than riding an ass into town. It probably took less time and was less stressful riding an ass.

Maybe that is why we demand cars that are fully loaded with features we don't even use. I think it is funny that someone would by a $50,000 four wheel drive car with a luxury paint job. Right, they really want to drive off road, and come back muddy with dings in the door panels!

Repent, be baptized, and be filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter preached on the day of Pentecost. The words of and after Jesus' life are contained in the New Testament that live on and on. They are instructions in righteousness through faith. Not righteousness that comes from the law that can't save you. It was never intended to save you but bring the recognition of how sinful we really are.

In the law are written things you are to do, and things you are not to do. The Pharisees added even more to the law seeking their perfection that way. That is not possible.

Being deceived they missed the point. The promises made to Abraham will be fulfilled just like the law was fulfilled by Jesus Christ. Who putting an end to the law, would have us moving on to perfection through faith.

The promises of God will be fulfilled and are part of the present day believer’s hope as well. Abraham believed in the promises, yet he never received them. That is true faith. Even the Old Testament saints were saved by grace through faith and not of the law; not of works.

The Pharisees sought to take control of the people for their own purposes. Not just in religion. Likewise many people desire and do control the lives of others. Satan, Gods enemy takes control of people, building his kingdom here on earth. Man does have a will of his own, but he must choose who he will serve, God or money, position or submission. The Bible speaks of serving your masters, but not to serve Satan or money.

It is not just the rich who serve money, but in context that is who God is talking about. Those who are rich and those who seek to become rich. Here is the proof text: How do you spend your money? I sure see a lot of poor people being passed, by people who drive a Lexus and those who don't.

The law was fulfilled by the one righteous one Jesus Christ. Not one jot or tittle of the law will pass away until it is fulfilled. Well, Jesus fulfilled it. Now the law is dead writes Paul. Now is the time to seek righteousness just as Abraham did. By faith in God. His faith was counted as righteousness, faith in the living God that could and did deliver him. Our faith now is in Jesus Christ who is our righteousness. We have to believe in Him for our righteousness. That righteousness is imputed or given to us and works in us.

But the battle continues. Satan can't believe he has already been defeated. Many a person does not believe it, whether they acknowledge Satan's presence or not. Some feel they are seeking their own righteousness by their good works, or just refusing to do any good works, enjoying the evil.

Unless you are in the will of God, submitted, your works count as unrighteousness, filthy rags. These works however noble do not please God. He seeks our obedience to Him alone. He is Lord of our lives, and all that we do regardless. One day all will have to confess it. That He is Lord of all.

The word say's that some think not to do evil is an abomination. Imagine that! What a terrible state to be in. Reprobate, haters of God and all he stands for, filled with envy's, strife, hatred of God Himself.

The law was fulfilled by the one righteous one Jesus Christ. Not one jot or tittle of the law will pass away until it is fulfilled. Well, Jesus fulfilled it. Now the law is dead writes Paul. Now is the time to seek righteousness, just as Abraham did. By faith in God. His faith was counted as righteousness faith in the living God that could and did deliver him. Our faith now is in Jesus Christ who is our righteousness. We have to believe in Him for our righteousness. That righteousness is imputed or given to us and works in us.

But the battle continues. Satan can't believe he has already been defeated. Many a person does not believe it, whether they acknowledge Satan's presence or not. Some feel they are seeking their own righteousness by their good works, or just refusing to do any good works, enjoying the evil.

Unless you are in the will of God, submitted, your works count as unrighteousness. These works however noble do not please God. He seeks our obedience to Him alone. He is Lord of our lives, and all that we do regardless. One day all will have to confess it. That He is Lord of all.

The word say's that some think not to do evil is an abomination. Imagine that! What a terrible state to be in. Reprobate, haters of God and all he stands for. Being filled with envy's, strife, and hatred of God Himself. Perhaps they are even being filled with a legion of fallen Angels who direct their every move.

Thinking the imaginations in their minds are their own thoughts, when in fact their own thoughts are lost in the mire of their captured minds. Not even aware of it because of constant use of the evil Spirits cast down from heaven. And they take council from other ungodly people under the same dominion, Satan's.

Who will deliver them? Is it our responsibility? Do they watch us and marvel as we overcome the world through our    faith? Does it anger them? I think so. As we speak the word of faith delivered to the saints? I think so.

Study, and study, and study, the fruits of this labor have everlasting effects on your life and the lives of others. The words that come out of your mouth will be prophetic as you speak the prophecies of God. You talk to the spirit man in every one you come in contact with. Wherever you are is your mission field.

These signs will follow you. Legions will begin to fall apart, become disarrayed, and confused. They cannot stand against the word of God, God’s word, will not, does not can not fail.

Do not give up the battle. Dismantle the bomb in Gil e add. The world is at stake. And as children of God we are responsible for their salvation. With Jesus the head of the Church we will not fail. We are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus who strengthens us. No weapons formed against us will prosper. By the will of the father all that are called by him will come unto him.

There are many sheep that belong in his pasture. We have to round them up and bring them into the presence of the Lord. There is a bomb in Gil e add, Satan and the fallen angels. But thanks be to God we have a Savior, Jesus the Christ who is our balm in Gil e add, our healer and deliverer.

It’s not a coincidence that my writings come out like this. for I look through the looking glasses of the King James Version of the Bible.

I thank God for the technology that enables me to produce, Copyright, publish and distribute my writings, In this most least expensive way, and without having to kill any trees.

The greatest benefit of all is that there is no one else having to alter what I have penned. Nor do I have to have their permission to be published! Nor do I have to produce what they demand. And best of all I can produce according to my own schedule.

I am truly an
                    entrepreneur.

Chaplain Winston T. Muldrew



God Uses Ordinary People






GOD USES ORDINARY PEOPLE!


When I listen to Bible expositor's on TV, radio, in person, or on the phone, I use my critical ear. I can usually count on them to talk about traditional or popular interpretations of Scripture, most of which I know quite well so I can think and listen at the same time. I usually know the verses they refer to quite well. So I listen to see if there is anything they left out, or if anything is revealed that I don't know already, or if their analysis is complete or correct. Sometimes when I listen to the same-o-same-o something will dawn on me I never thought of before. If I can reach someone I can dialog with I point it out to them and we discuss it.

Today I came up with an understanding of Jesus' first miracle that I never heard anyone preach before. That is the miracle of water being changed into wine. And it is based strictly on Scripture. Words that I glossed over before were suddenly revealed to me. When I saw them I thought, "Hey there is something else going on here!" So I began to dig into the passages a lot deeper to see what else I could uncover.

Some preachers I have heard like to stress how by being a servant of the LORD you can receive a blessing. In this case they say the wine was the blessing. It was better than any of the wine that was served previously at the wedding festival.  But we need to look closely at the servants in this miracle. Who are the servants, what did they receive, and what was the servants blessing?

A lot of the ministering I hear is to ask of God and receive a physical blessing, to be in the will of God and receive a physical blessing. But let's get spiritual for a change! OK, let’s follow the flow of the Spirit at this event. Jesus, his mother, and the disciple's were invited to a wedding festival. Mary was observing what was going on and noticed they were out of wine. So she told Jesus, and He replied, "Woman, what have I to with you, it is not my time."

To me this first miracle was an act of faith and obedience, prompted by the Holy Spirit. The intent, purpose, and desire were to provide more wine for the wedding festival by the working of the Spirit through Jesus Christ. The initial movement of the Spirit was through Mary. After she said those words to Jesus she told the servants to do as Jesus instructs them. Jesus who is the living Word of God instructed the servants to fill six water pots to the brim with water. A miracle was about to take place in their midst. The water pots held about thirty gallons apiece. That is about 180 gallons in total.

The servants did as they were instructed to do. He then instructed them to give the governor a portion. In order to do so, they had to transfer the wine into smaller vessels, probably of silver, to serve the governor and other honored guests. At some point in time in their service to Christ the water turned into wine. What greater blessing can a Christian have than to see a miracle take place right before their eyes!

Somehow the servants had the composure to serve the governor as Jesus instructed them to do. The Spirit of God was in control as they flowed in the Spirit. Most of us would have wanted to run around the room, jump up and down, and tell everyone what happened after witnessing something like that. With Jesus in their midst, it seems like they would have at least fallen down at His feet and worshiped Him. But in this case the Spirit of God would not allow them to. They just went about calmly doing what was required of them as servants at a wedding festival!

Some might say well miracles don't happen anymore, that was just during the Apostolic age. Well the governor, bridegroom and guests may have felt that miracle's don't happen anymore as well. After all, the last time they heard from God was through the prophet Malachi. Here they were in Jesus presence, God in the flesh. And yes, they were served wine better than any in the house. OK, let's make it more contemporary.

Yes, they own the biggest house on the block. Yes, they own the newest and most expensive car available. Yes, they wear the finest of clothes. Yes, they get served the best wine available. But hear me when I say, "Let's get Spiritual!" They missed the best blessing of all. They had no idea that a miracle had just taken place! With all their pomp and circumstance they were focusing on the wrong things, and were not allowed to be privy to the workings of the Holy Spirit through Mary, Christ, and the servants.

Now I ask you, who are the real servants in this gospel writing? The governor serves. No not him. The bridegroom serves. No not him. The honored guests serve. No not them. The servants were the ones that God used to participate in Jesus first miracle recorded in Scripture. And they were just little people. They were there only to serve. They had no political connections. They did not know the right people. They were not part of the in-crowd. They were not part of the who's-who. They did not even get any recognition nor honor for the type of work they did. They would not even
been invited to the wedding festival if they were not there as servants! But God allowed them to see and participate in the miracle while they were serving by the way. The others only got wine. Perhaps they started to whine later after they found out what happened in their midst that they missed.

The real servants received a spiritual blessing the others received a physical blessing. Do I have to ask you which blessing was greater? Which blessing you would rather witness, experience or receive every day? A glass of wine can't be compared to the blessings of the Kingdom which are new and manifold all the time. A glass of wine will always be a glass of wine.

The real servants got the real blessing, and it doesn't say they told anyone. They were privileged to see privately the first awesome display of the power of God in over four hundred years! And because of the power and control of the Holy Spirit they could not talk about it. By the same Holy Spirit they could not jump up and down. By the same Holy Spirit they just calmly walked around and served the governor, bridegroom and his guests as if this was an every day experience.

Think about Mary. What prompted her to even suggest to Jesus to do something about the lack of wine? I don't think she expected him to head to the market place with his disciple's, and bring back wineskins full of wine. The initial movement of the Spirit moved her to prompt Jesus into action. She did not tell him specifically what to do. But she knew to tell him, and what to tell the servants. And Jesus knew what to tell the servants. Mean while the married couple are enjoying themselves. I did not know that fact until I read the book of Tob, Tobias, Toby. I finally read a book from the Apocrypha. A teacher said after I graduated from Bible that I could read anything now. I graduated in 1993. I chose to read that book first because my middle name is Tobias and my nickname is Toby. The root word is Tob. The Apocrypha has been removed since the 1611 version of the King James. 

Jesus said time and time again in the New Testament that He was there to do the will of the Father only. At His baptism by John the Baptist the Spirit of God descended upon Him as a dove and He was filled. Jesus operated in the power of the Holy Spirit. Situations always presented themselves at the predetermined time and place of God, and Jesus was there to do the will of the Father. People were always participants, willingly and unwillingly, for and against Him, knowing and unknowing, understanding and not understanding, aware and not aware.

At this first miracle of Jesus, the disciples were there as God's silent witnesses. They were to later testify of what God did in their presence, and to record it for our edification. Jesus told His mother that it was not His time. Perhaps this is what He meant. At the marriage feast He received no recognition for this miracle. It was not time for Him to be seen as a miracle worker nor to go public with His ministry.

Now I am not saying that physical pleasure's, and what we deem to be necessities are not to be sought after in this life, but for what purpose do you desire them? What purpose do they serve? Are you just enjoying the party or being obedient to God and His word, or are you doing both? Have you considered Is there something else you should be doing?

Samuel told Saul obedience is better than sacrifice. Saul had spared the king and some animals, etc., when God had instructed him to kill everything. God demonstrated to David that obedience is better than praise when Uzzah died trying to steady the Ark of the Covenant. He wasn't supposed to touch it. There was something else both of them should have been doing. Saul lost his kingdom. I wonder what Uzzah missed out on. Perhaps the governor and bridegroom, and guests weren't servants. They missed out on the miracle. The same Holy Spirit could have contained them as well.

I believe that there is a message here for the church. We have to be mindful to do the will of the LORD even in our work, in our praise, in our worship, in our sacrifice, in our pleasure, in our everything. We have to be prepared at all times to stop what we are doing, and do what God would have us do being sensitive to the move of the Spirit just like Mary, Jesus, and the servants were at the wedding festival. Also we should not think more highly of ourselves than we ought to. Keep in mind, "It's the little people" who not only witnessed his miracles, but also believed unto salvation.

Think about Gideon's three hundred soldiers’s who defeated a mighty army by just blowing on trumpets, breaking pitcher's, and lighting lantern's. They were selected from among thousands, because not only did they have no fear, while satisfying their physical needs (drinking water), they were found to still be working (ever watching). These were the true warriors and servants of God. They knew what to do by the Spirit of God. God showed Gideon how to identify them. In battle they were obedient, and calmly went about doing just what the LORD instructed them to do. They were able to participate in a miracle.

Some preachers say that everyone got blessed by the consuming of the wine that was brought about by a miracle of God, from the governor, to the bridegroom, to the guests, to the servants. However, I don't think the servants imbibed to the extent of the others if at all they had work to do. However, I'm sure they enjoyed the wedding as much, well actually, more than everyone else there.

Are you willing to be a servant of the LORD and do a great work sight unseen? Or would you rather hang out with the Mucky-mucks? Keep in mind that Jesus told the seventy when they came back to not rejoice in their great works, but rejoice because their names are written in heaven. To God be the glory.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Jonah Does Not Really Take a Detour!


Jonah Does Not Really Take a Detour!
Or
Which Way Is Up…
       
I'm starting to sound like one of our old Presidents. He used to say when people kept bringing up the same old topic with a smile on his face, and with I don't consider myself on par with President Ronald Reagan. He was known as the great communicator. However, I do find myself saying, "Well, here I go again."

Oh by the way that was the President's  reply every time the reporters asked him if he died his hair.  He was about 70 years old at the time and the reporters could not figure out if the President died his hair. I can understand their confusion. Every President hair turns gray during his term. President Obama hair is turning gray and he is forty something! I was expecting his hair to turn to gray also so I was not disappointed.

I have not heard Jonah's experience explained quite this way before. What makes him unique is that he does not want to do the job, he has attitude problems, he does not want to cooperate, he try's to avoid the job, he argues with God, he is a fuss pot, he is set upon doing things his way, and he is certainly against saving his enemy's. That was God used him. That is what made him uniquely qualified for this particular task! God needed person like that. He could say God made me do it and every one would believe him.

Jonah is a chosen vessel of God, commissioned to go to Ninevah to preach the message of repentance unto salvation for God wanted to save these people. However Jonah had a personal problem with this idea. He did not want God to save these people. These people were enemies of Israel and he wanted God to destroy them not save them. He did not want these people to be his people. So when God instructed him about the task he was to perform he thought he could shuck his responsibility by getting out of town heading in the wrong direction.

One thing we have to keep in mind is that no one is one of God's people except by His grace. Paul finally understood this after his conversion to Christianity. He said that not even all of Israel were God's people. It took an act of God called election to save those who were.

Before Jesus came, died and rose again, they were the ones who believed in the promise of the soon coming Messiah. After Jesus came, ascended to sit at the right hand of the Father, and sent the Holy Spirit they are the ones who believe He is the son of God, God who came in the flesh and the soon returning Messiah.

It is interesting how God works. What really took place here is exactly what God planned from the beginning. For he had a few other things Jonah had to do before he got to Ninevah.  Keep in mind that people will say things that do not reflect the reality of the situation. You can sit there and complain about what God is doing or going to with you, and it does not alter the circumstances one iota because God has a purpose to fulfill.

It seems like some people can adjust their attitude and just go with the flow. Some go kicking and screaming. Some just fuss the whole time. I guess whatever works for you. So OK, Jonah fusses but Jonah was still going. Some think that Jonah took off in the wrong direction. I beg to differ. God purpose for Jonah had a few other details to take care of before Jonah would arrive in Ninevah.

So Jonah, perhaps thinking he is getting away from God or perhaps not. Perhaps he feels something about this trip that compels him to go this way. He heads down to Joppa and ends up on a boat with a crew headed for Tarshish. Again, this is not only where he is supposed to be, but the boat was to take him to the transfer point of the other vehicle that would take him the rest of the way to the final destination God had in mind for Jonah, Ninevah.

God does not always send his people on a bee line to their destination. It took them 40 years to get out of the wilderness. They had to cross the Jordan River on dry land too which reminded them about the Red Sea and what happened to all the dissenters. They thought twice, thrice about being rebellious that time, "Well, here we go again!"

God has reasons for Jonah being on that boat one, to let him know that God was with him. Like Jesus on the boat during a great storm Jonah is fast asleep below with not a care in the world. He had the peace that passes understanding down in his heart, of God, was upon him. He had a beautiful rest in the arms of the LORD before it was time to transfer to the other mode of transportation. They were almost at the transfer point. That is why he had to go that route.

A mighty storm signaled its soon arrival. Somehow Jonah new and he was ready to go. The other boatmen were moved to go and wake Jonah. Everybody was praying to their god. They wanted Jonah to pray to his. Jonah got up, went above deck, and prayed. He told them to throw him over board and everything would be alright. They actually did it and it everything was okay again. At the end I will my Jonah testimony but everything was not alright where I came from. Did God have a make a way of escape for Jonah he wasn't aware of and could not find out in Nineveh? Were they planning his death. The KJV says they killed the prophets all the day long. What a mighty God he serves. Jonah by faith was transferred to the other mode of transportation which turned out to be a huge fish.

Can you imagine the fear of Jonah's God that came upon the crew as they witnessed all this? They knew he was a Hebrew. Wherever they went stories of Jehovah had preceded them from their time of deliverance from Pharaoh of Egypt after 430 years along with other Africans and before then. Often times their enemy's were sore afraid of their God yet still fought against Gods people and lost.

Some people don't respect the control of mankind the power of God has either because of their ignorance or incapability. Now that the transfer was complete Jonah left behind witnesses of Gods power. They witnessed Jonah being swallowed by a great fish. Jonah could now complete his trip to Nineveh. The ground floor had been laid. All the pieces would come together in the minds of the people over the years.

There would be more talk about the God of the Hebrews. I can hear them saying, Oh yea, I heard these boatmen saw Jonah swallowed by a great fish. Somebody else said he ended up in Ninevah. Yakkity yack, Yada, Yada, and so on and so on.

This fish had been predestined and prepared to receive Jonah at this particular time and place, in these particular waters and to deliver him safely to Nineveh in three and night days specifically. Jesus was to use this as an analogy to His like manner of being three days in the earth after He hung Himself on the cross at Calvary.

After being in the belly of this great fish for three days and nights what affect do you think that had on Jonah who had attitude problems to begin with? What affect do you think it had on the clothes he was wearing? What about his hair, his body odor, his walk, his talk? No wonder they repented when they saw and heard the likes of Him. Look what God did to His own prophet! To this fuss pot!

The silence is killing me that which is not written. It does not say that Jonah suddenly had a change of heart. On the contrary God had to deal with him under a tree where he was still fussing with God and resting. God caused it to wither to illustrate to Jonah His point in saving Nineveh God was still trying to get Jonah to get it, God's program. But he was the man for the job anyway. Nineveh got it. And that was what God purposed to accomplish.

Jonah was already in the kingdom. God wanted to bring some more in. Kingdom people have issues like everyone else, but maybe a little different. We love God. And like any father he deals with the issues. Being the heavenly Father He does it right every time. Some call that fellowship with God.

So perhaps not only did Jonah do the work of the LORD he got his needs met as well. Imagine the testimony he alone had. The experience unlike anything else he could have even imagined. The memories (if he recovered) he could recall and relive. Jonah, with a bad attitude was used mightily of God. And I don't know if his attitude ever changed.

It did not matter then. Besides as a child of God you can have a bad attitude, cry, fuss, etc. and still feel the presence of the LORD and be joyful in your heart. Your outward appearance at the time may be necessary to get the job done. I decided not give my testimony after edit this writing. God said enough to me.