Is it making sense?

Some time ago the Holy Spirit was speaking to me about the desire of Abba to have His Son live in and through me. I didn't understand it properly then and I don't know if I do now. But I'm going to give God 2011 so He can teach me what it's all about.

Consistent

One thing I have learnt about God this year is, He is consistent. Determined, dedicated too, but consistent in His relationship with me. If God wants to communicate something to me He will, over and over again, because He knows how I am wired. I went off to Portugal in October with the issue of 'strongholds' to deal with once again. Recently His emphasis has been on RELATIONAL LIVING. The recognition that Jesus is in Me, and I am in Him, CONTINUAL PRESENCE THINKING. This was a term Daddy introduced me to some 20yrs. ago, and is valid for today.
This morning we were back to strongholds, after my adorable wife had pressed a 'button' last night. As I sat before the Lord and we talked about the issue He told me that the area I was so sensitive about was in fact a stronghold. Yes, it's still there. I did tell Dad how frustrated I was that the blooming thing hadn't been destroyed, but He reminded me of how deeply embedded these wrong beliefs are. So just be encouraged.

Just Musing

Spending time in the presence of the Godhead is my occupation. It's a bit like as christians we are betrothed to Jesus. We were chosen in Him by Father before the foundation of the world, and we have a wedding to attend. The bride price has been paid, the wedding dress is fitted, the venue is paid for, and the catering booked. All we are waiting on is the date set by Daddy who wants to Bless His Son. In between time the Spirit of Truth gives us unlimited access into the Bridegroom's presence to love on Him. This beats what the world has to offer.

Oh Yes................

Without having seen Him you love Him; though you do not [even] now see Him, you believe in Him and exult and  thrill with inexpressible and glorious (triumphant, heavenly) joy. 1Peter 1:8 Amp.

Just a Thought................

I wonder how much 'worldly' thinking gets mixed in with what we christians think we believe. Or rather is it not the subtle un-renewed thinking we live with which has been impregnated with worldliness since the moment we were born?
This whole area of success and fulfilment is a quagmire. According to the world men have to be powerful, successful in their jobs, make a lot of money, manage marriage and children, as well as changing the world, whatever that means. They have to be heroes, yet tactile, sympathetic, and caring. Pretty tall order don't you think? The Holy Spirit has the wonderful capacity to shine His light right through the stuff we think, whether we are conscious of thinking it or not. Those of us from a shame based, performance, background need constant mind renewal to truth. I am so thankful that the emergent mystic community is willing to anchor their bliss in truth. Our lives must be anchored in truth, God's truth; and in particular God's truth for us.
So what now do I believe about success, and fulfilment? Well I know God is not looking for heroes, per se. He is not looking for supermen, He already had all that in Jesus. He is looking for me to be a childlike lover. No more no less. He encouraged me this morning not to look so much at myself as a son with authority standing tall next to Him (which I am); but more of a son who was childlike and trusting. Maybe trust is something Daddy wants to develope in me. 1 John 4 is a marvellous chapter of truth. John teaches the church to believe and trust on the love God cherishes for us. Then he encourages us to spend time in communion with God as this perfects agape in us, and perfected agape in turn will push fear out of doors. When we think of judgement day we are to be completely at ease in God's love, comfortable about meeting Him.
I want nothing more this morning than to be found in His presence, gazing upon His beauty, and communing with Him. If that intoxicates me, and I fall into a trance I'm up for it. He He.

A Shackle Breaker.

It was the Father's idea to choose us as His children in Christ before the foundation of the world. [Not my parent's idea, not the government's idea, not an angels idea; and certainly not satan's idea.] So I am set apart for Him, already holy, blameless in His sight, above reproach in His love. Eph. 1:4,5 my paraphrase.


THAT'S SHOUTING GROUND.

Shift.

Not so much a shift in speed, more like a shift into deeper experience. Replacing lies in our thinking with truth from God's word requires determination and perseverance, two manifestations of God's grace. But as we don't give up and continue to maintain our minds on a war footing, sowing and speaking truth little by little the shift begins. Why do I use war terminology? We christians have an enemy and we are at war, whether we understand it, or acknowledge it. Deception is the enemies main battle tank, and if we think we are immune to deception then the chances are we are already deceived. I remember an illustration John Wimber used to highlight this. Most christians he said thought that when they got saved they went on board a cruise liner, when the reality is they are drafted onto a troop carrier in full uniform.
One of the greatest truths I have been given these last few weeks is this. If I want change in my life, then I have to change my thinking. And I am the one who has to chose what I think.

The Just shall live by faith.................

Since the Lord brought up the subject of strongholds in Portugal, I have been in the reality of what Paul describes as wrestling against principalities, and powers. Not that it has made me dis-couraged, but it has in fact strengthened my resolve to press on in Jesus. Just this morning as I was meditating on Ephesians 1:4. 'Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.' I began to think about God's plan for man and I must have been wondering why it had to be the way it is, and maybe God could have chosen an easier route for us all to travel on. The Spirit interrupted my thoughts with a verse from scripture.
'For if by one man's offence death reigned through the one,....' Romans 5:17. It is certainly not my business to query why God has allowed His wonderful creation to be hijacked by satan, and knowing Adam would foul up, why there wasn't a plan B. But ever since the 'fall' we have been born of woman into a dysfunctional existence. But God chose me in Christ before the foundation of the world...........
' Son death has reigned in the earth since Adam's offence. It was part of my plan for you to be born when you were in the earth just as everyone else has been. You cannot yet see the future I have laid out for you, and yes it has been painful for you having to experience the reality of sin and all that effects the human condition. But this is My plan. I had to have a man on the earth who would obey Me so I came myself as the Word, and was born in the earth just as you were. So through Christ I redeemed you. But don't forget this present time and place you are living in is not your final destination. Just relax and use this as a time to learn about Me and My love for you. You and I are having a wonderful time getting up to all sorts of exciting things across the universe. Don't forget that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times I have gathered together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and in the earth-in Him.'

On the brink?

We may be standing on the edge of history. What is the most important factor of any countries well being? What caused the British Empire to fail, and for Communism to collapse? Money. Cash. Molah. Pounds shillings and pence. Green backs. In the case of  Europe, the Euro. Britain after the war hadn't the cash to maintain an Empire. Communism collapsed because it ran out of money. Sticking a number of diverse economies into a rigid monetary system was a recipe for disaster and I for one am waiting expectantly for the EU to collapse, as the Euro collapses. What is maddening is that the Europhiles will hang on to the discredited empire as long as they can by sucking in billions of pounds worth of your money to prop up a system that will eventually implode. Bring it on.

Friendship

Quite a bit has been happening over the past few weeks as God continues to work His will out in this frail human being. This morning the subject of friendship was raised once again. For those of us with a history of rejection we usually walk around shadowed by deep loneliness. Thankfully this is something Father wants to deal with in all of us, and His friendship is a vital ingredient. Remember when the Bible spoke of Abraham being a friend of God? Jesus said to His disciples that He called them friends because He had shared with them all His Father had shared with Him. Father told me this morning that His friendship was the antidote to my deep isolation, and loneliness. The subject of my loneliness was raised a couple of days ago in town. We are complex beings, motivated at times by the areas of our damaged personality's and we do things to meet needs in us that we are not always aware of. For example if we have recurrent addictive behaviour, deep down something is going on that we may not even comprehend.
Back to friendship. Friends have relationships that others don't. They share time together, give of themselves, and their resources. The levels of acceptance and openness to each other are at times phenomenal, and if the friendship is maintained it can provide a lifetime of satisfaction. It is a bit difficult for me to see the King of Kings, God Almighty, the Creator of all things wanting to fill a need in me for friendship, but that is exactly what Holy Spirit was talking about this morning. Friendship from God comes out of His character. God is love, His friendship flows from His love. A friendship that is pure, unconditional, and unchanging is offered to us as a gift.
I would be stupid to refuse such a gift. Like all gifts friendship with God is to be received, nothing more, nothing less.

I only do what I see the Father do...........

Jesus's teaching in John ch. 5 has always intrigued me. Not only that it has been in my heart for years to live like that. Forgive me for mentioning it again.
This morning Jesus spoke to my heart. 'I want to go to the library.'
'OK Lord, no problem I'll get right onto it.' I replied. Alighting from the bus He said, 'Go upstairs in the library sit down and have a read.'
We have that facility in the town library so that is what I did.
After a bit He said, 'I want to go to the Post Office.'
Oh! I forgot to mention I had missed the bus I intended to catch, you will see why that is important in a minute. After hanging about outside the Post Office in the rain for a while He asked, 'Would you like to catch the quarter past bus home?'
'Not a bad idea.' I replied. I walked back up to the bus station with 5 mins. before the bus came. I got there in time and shortly after my arrival the bus came into view and I got off my seat and went to a door that leads me out to the end of the queue for my bus. As I approached the door I encountered K. a young woman I used to work with in ASDA. She left to give the tourist industry a try and I hadn't seen her for a bit. I embraced her and putting my mouth close to her left ear I whispered.
'God loves you so much, and you are special to Him.'
We only had time for a couple of pleasantries before I had to get on my bus.
God knew who He wanted me to speak to today. He knew where K. was going to be and at what time, so he organised the whole thing.
My part? JUST TO LISTEN AND OBEY. Just like Jesus.

This blessed me.....

'I remember when I began Life In The Word Ministries. The first week I was to conduct a meeting, I asked the Lord what He wanted me to teach and He responded, 'Tell My people that I love them.'
'They know that,' I said. 'I want to teach them something really powerful, not a Sunday school lesson out of John 3:16.'
The Lord said to me, 'Very few of My people really know how much I love them. If they did, they would act differently'.  [Joyce Myer. Battlefield of the Mind page 169].
Joyce went on to say that she realised as she studied the subject of receiving God's love she was in desperate need herself.
God told me to tell His people He loved them many years ago. Because it was so far out of my ball court it has taken me many years to come to the place of real obedience. The Lord told me this morning that He chose to call me in an area that I was weak in, in the natural. If He had given me something to do that I felt strong in naturally I would have been off and running without Him.
'My strength is made perfect in your weakness'.
'Thanks Daddy I always want to be dependent on You'.  

What is the highest goal you can think of for your life?...........

That wasn't the question God asked me yesterday, this is the question He asked me this morning. I believe not only does He know the answer to the question, but in some supernatural way He had already placed it in my heart. Have you ever been asked that question? I sincerely hope so. One thing a question like this does is it activates faith, because you know it's not going to be fulfilled by natural resources. I turned to Romans chapter four for some encouragement.
Abraham got a promise from God. He had no human reason for hope so he activated his faith. He didn't weaken in faith when he considered the impotence of his own body, and he didn't waver through doubt or mistrust. He was fully satisfied and assured that God was true to His word, and had the power to keep the promise. Interestingly God changed Abram's name when he was 99 yrs. old to reflect who he was to become. So Abraham went around talking the promise about himself.
'I am Abraham the father of many nations, and Sarah is a mother of nations.' Gen. 17.
Here we see the God who gives life to the dead, and speaks to those things that be not as though they were, actively involved in Abraham's life not only to bless him, but to bring about His own divine will.
God hasn't changed. Give Him a chance to let Him ask that question of you, and then see what happens.

Whoa, where did that come from?................

Have you ever been going along quite nicely, and BAM, something catches you on the blind side. I was having a good time with Pop this morning and out of the blue He asked me a question that was like, whoa! where did that come from. Whenever I am asked a question by God like this I get the distinct knowledge that He is gazing right into my soul aware of all that's going on in there. I will not be less than honest with God, so I answered.
'I don't want to go there,' pause. 'Just yet.'
Has this ever happened to you?

In the beginning was the Word........

and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Have you ever really sat down and thought about how Almighty God, the Creator of all things could humble Himself and become flesh? I must admit I don't understand how that happened. I know the human egg needs sperm to begin the journey of life. Somehow the Word became a real human being in a real human womb, was born and grew up in a family. The angel told Mary that she would conceive in her womb and bring forth a son. When she asked the angel how this could be as she had not known a man, the angel replied. 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, the Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God...' Luke 1:35. So the Word became the egg, and the Holy Spirit became the catalyst for the conception? As I said I don't understand it, but I believe Jesus was born of a virgin supernaturally, and that He is fully God, and fully man.
As I was pondering this I thought about what happened to us at new birth? The Holy Spirit came upon me and the power of the Highest overshadowed me, and I was reborn. Was I reborn into a perfect human being? Or was there more to it, and I need greater revelation. Was I reborn into a son of the Most High, a son of God? Have I the same genetic make up as Jesus in my spirit? Am I in fact a chip off the old block?
Isn't it exciting travelling along with the Holy Spirit? It's a blast.

All things are possible.........

The man's son had a dumb spirit and he brought the boy to Jesus for deliverance. In the course of the discussion concerning the boy, the father says. 'But if you can do anything, do have pity on us, and help us.'
And Jesus said, '[You say to Me], If you can do anything? [Why,] all things can be (are possible) to him who believes!' Mark 9:23. The man admits his un-belief, a crowd is gathering, so Jesus casts the demon out of the lad.
What a provocative statement. All things are possible to him that believes. 
All things are possible, but they are determined by what we believe. As a man thinks in his heart so is he. Strongholds of lies block the possibility of change, block the possibility of victory; and seek to steal our inheritance. Strongholds must be torn down and our minds renewed to truth. The Lord gave me an illustration this morning that helps me here.
A snake has a process of shedding it's old skin, the butterfly has a process emerging from the chrysalis. The process of change for us is not easy, it will take discipline, and determination to start and continue in the process. But there is no other option if we want to walk in the victory Jesus bought us at Calvary.

I don't believe................

John 14:12. He that believes on Me will do the works that I do... Jesus places tremendous emphasis on believing. In John ch. 6 When asked what they should do to do the works of God, Jesus told His listeners to believe on the One whom God sent. If I'm not doing the works that Jesus did, on a day to day basis, is it as simple as not believing? Jesus told the congregation in His home synagogue that He was anointed by God to preach good news to the poor, to proclaim freedom for the prisoners, recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, and to proclaim the Lord's favour. If Jesus is in me, He is still anointed to do these things? If He is not doing these, His father's works through me, is it as simple as I don't believe?

Eureka

Have you had one of those Eureka moments lately? You know when the penny finally drops and you see something clearly. I am so grateful to God my Everlasting Father that He knows me so well. He knows what I need to know before I do. He knows what He needs to get to me to move me along the journey I'm on. It's the same for you if you are a christian. One thing I've always been thankful for is having people in the body of Christ to look up to. God will put someone in my life that I will look at and say to myself. 'Well if it worked for them then It'll work for me.' Or 'If God has done it for them, then I can be sure He can do it for me.' Before I went sojourning on the Algarve I bought a couple of books to take with me. They were written by a woman in ministry of whom I have always had a great deal of respect, but I hadn't had any contact with her ministry for ages. But God knew I needed to re-connect with her teaching again.
This lady and I have such a lot in common. But God has worked in her life in an amazing way, and reading her books has encouraged me so much. If He has done it in her life, and He has, then He will do it for me. God has always been able to use books in my life. I got saved with the help of books, as well as the Bible, and I've always been open the the written word. Which brings me to my Eureka moment this morning. For my life to change, I first have to believe the truth. But more importantly I am the one that has to take authority over my mind. We have always been told the battlefield is between the ears, and it really is. But sadly I've been negligent in bringing my mind into line with God's truth. Now that has to change and together with Holy Spirit I am the one that has to be determined to do it.
For my life to straighten out, my thinking has to straighten out.

You will know (as a reality) the truth, and the truth will set you free......

Jesus said His words were spirit and they were life. I also look at them as keys. Keys to unlock potential. Deception is always emphasised by fear, fear and lies exist side by side, so truth and freedom must co-exist; it's what we choose to believe makes or breaks us. Let me ask you a pointed question. Why is the church not noted for good news? It is my perception, and I may be wrong, but consistently the church has offered the world a sin based, fear based message. I don't believe God looks at the world the way His church does, and we really need to alter our thinking to align with His.
For example. Why do we not emphasise that it's the goodness of God that leads to repentance. If they knew God loved them  it's pretty reasonable to assume that most people would want to follow Him. Jesus never looked at the outward appearance of people, He only looked at their hearts. I believe Jesus was as bonkers over the people of His generation, as He is over our generation. For me the root issue is acceptance. Ask any christian, does God accept people, and I expect you will get a variety of answers. Check it out on yourself. Does God accept the average Joe and Jane in your neighbourhood? See what your answers is, and check it against scripture.

Success

Bearing in mind that the world's value systems are founded on deception it shouldn't take too long to realise that the way the world looks at success is different from the way God looks at success. The world will tell us from an early age that we will only be successful if we are pretty, slim, wealthy, clever, talented, or the new one for this generation a 'celebrity'. Every message relating to success will be based on what we do, or what we can achieve by our own efforts. All worldly efforts to achieve success, and happiness are external rule based performance. Sadly often the 'church' falls into the same trap as the world and promotes flavour of the month christians whose ministry is visible, or who have written the latest best seller, or recorded a new CD.
True success in God's eyes is relational. If you are a son, or a daughter of God, through believing on Jesus; YOU ARE A SUCCESS. Your success is not based on what you do, but what God has done for you through Jesus. I am successful because God loves me. He chose me before the foundation of the world in Christ. Why? Because of His mercy, and in order to satisfy the great and wonderful and intense love with which He loves me.
My success is not based on my behaviour, or my performance, but on my sonship in Christ.
How I need to renew my mind to this daily.

Strongholds 5

Little coal shunter

In discussing strongholds we must never forget they are deceptive thought patterns, lies originated by the father of lies, and peddled continuously to the human race. Being born into deception by definition means we believe and live our lives in deception. Jesus came to set us free and to give us abundant life, by bringing us into truth. Two issues in my opinion are very important for all christians. 

1). Identity.

2). Success.

Sometimes the issue of identity can seem a little removed from us as we consider ourselves to be 'new creations', what does it really mean? For me the journey is coming into the reality of who I am in God's eyes. He recreated us at new birth into the image of His Son Jesus. Every time I cry out to God that I want to be like Jesus, He tells me that I am. As He is so are we in this world John tells us in his first letter to the church. Paul, the great theologian, writes in Romans ch. 8v29 the Father's plan is for us to be molded into the image of His Son. So as christians we are like Jesus in our inner man, and on top of that He lives in us by the presence and power of Holy Spirit, that's GOOD NEWS.

Consider with me for a moment the idea of success. What is true success? Well the world will tell you one thing, and the Spirit of Jesus will tell you something different.

More on this later.

Strongholds 4

Proverbs 23:7  For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: from the KJV. This is a very important verse for us to be aware of. Basically it teaches us that whatever inner picture we have of ourselves, we will out work it in our lives. I do what I believe, so If I believe lies about myself then my life will reflect that in relation to the world around me, and in my relationships with people. So it is imperative to take authority over what I'm thinking, and to start to deliberately change my belief system. Every culture has a world view, but we must change our world view to aligne itself with the truth of God's word.  
it may seem to take a long time, and I may slip up along the way, but I'm placing my hope in He who has started a good work in me; and I'm not going to quit.

Strongholds 3

Having touched on the thought that when strongholds have been identified, they have to be countered with truth, lets add a little more practicality. In his letter to the church James admonishes them to 'Get rid of all uncleanliness and the rampant outgrowth of wickedness, and in a humble (gentle, modest) spirit receive and welcome the Word which implanted and rooted (in your hearts) contains the power to save your soul...' James 1:21 My emphasis. (Amp). The problem with strongholds is they are buried deep in the heart of man, and the word has to be implanted and rooted in the heart to replace the lies of the devil. Referring to Ed. Silvoso once more he uses another illustration to make this point, you can probably come up with a better one.
Image you have a wall on your property to demolish, you have a sledgehammer to do the work with. How many times are you going to strike the wall in exactly the same place until a crack appears? When the crack does appear, how many more strikes will it take before the wall starts to fall? The wall will come down, but it will take considerable effort on your part.
Replacing the lies with truth will take considerable effort, but it can be achieved. Remember you are not alone, Holy Spirit is committed to getting you to a place of freedom. Jesus said that He came that you might have life, and have it more abundantly.

Strongholds 2

Having accepted the fact that we may have strongholds, we really need the discernment that Holy Spirit brings. He is the one who will highlight them for us, and He is the one who will show us what needs to be done to break them down. It is not relevant for me to list the three strongholds that me and the Lord are dealing with, but to help us see the need to have them dealt with otherwise they will continue to sabotage our walk with Jesus. Basically the lies must be replaced with truth. Simple? Yes. Easy? No. Godly principles will work for everyone. Replacing lies with truth will work for everyone, but what truth are we going to use? If people use worldly 'truth', which is in fact still deception no progress will be made in their lives. Only the truth found in God's word will bring the required victory, and freedom. I remember those times I listened to a secular psychologist, looking back I realised he had no truth, but a secular framework to work from that didn't help me one bit.
Needless to say believing the truth about Jesus and being born again by the Spirit of God, is the starting place. But as the Spirit reveals the strongholds, He will also guide you to the truth in scripture as an antidote to the lies.

You will know the truth and the truth will set you free..............

Actually Jesus said, 'If you abide in My word(s) you will know the truth and the truth will set you free... John 8:31 During my recent sojourn to the Algarve the Holy Spirit began to give me clear indication to the direction He wanted me to take during our times together. The subject of 'strongholds' came up. Paul mentions them in 2 Cor. 4. Strongholds are deeply entrenched lies we believe that are embedded deep in our hearts. I remember Ed. Silvoso teaching on this subject many years ago, and it is still fresh in my memory. He likened strongholds to those large sea mines that were deployed during the last war to protect harbours, and naval installations. They were very large steel spheres packed with high explosives, jutting our from the mine were the sensitive 'rods' that were used to detonate the mine. These sea mines were anchored to the sea bed with a wire and the mines were allowed to stay in position some fathoms below the surface, hopefully undetected. As enemy shipping approached the idea was that the hull of the vessel would catch a pressure point and the mine would explode, and sink the ship.
Our strongholds are like that. Lying undetected below the surface of our lives they have the ability to 'detonate' and sabotage us by prompting the behaviour that stems from the lies we believe when certain pressures are put on us.
It is worth saying at this point, and I say it with humility; if you don't believe you have any strongholds then my friend you are deceived.

I must get to it.........................

I must get around to updating some of the stuff the Holy Spirit has downloaded to me this week in Portugal. Of course it's pretty personal but then I can expect most folk can identify with what's been going on in my life as it will resonate with them. So when I get home maybe that will be a good time to start.

Reality.

In Him we live, and move, and have our being. A little theology from Paul when talking to a few Greek blokes who were more interested in thinking than faith. Strange how not much has changed in our post modern culture. The reality is that Jesus Christ the messiah, is the answer to all questions that man can come up with. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords and His rulership is paramount. He is the Saviour, Strengthener, Provider, Protector, Lover, Father, Prince of peace, the be all and end of all that He Himself created. On the cross at Calvary He achieved for man what was totally impossible for man to achieve. Through His sacrifice He became the door which led to the Father, that door is open to all who will believe. Every single person on this planet right now needs, desires, longs, hungers to know they are loved by God, and that need is met through Christ.
Christ's sacrifice on the cross is amazing. But it didn't stop there. After Christ's ascension on the day of Pentecost heaven opened wide and God came to live in man. Unbelievable as it may seem God who is Spirit, will come and dwell in any person who had been recreated at new birth based on believing on Jesus. The indwelling presence of Jesus Christ is not a truth the church has majored on in general. But now the Holy Spirit is bringing revelation to the Body of Christ concerning not only the atoning work of Christ, but the reality of Christ in us the hope of Glory.
If we are not careful these scriptures will remain a cliché. Christ has come, re incarnated in the Church so he can live His life in and through us. No longer are we to live but Christ must live in us. We must believe we have been crucified with Him, and now He lives in us to live through us. No more a make over, but a replacement, no more christian humanism, but a childlike faith in His indwelling presence. He is what we need, not what He has to offer us. He is what people need not our fine words, or our great ideas. He is Love and the world needs Love, now as much as ever, if not moreso.

A Funny Thing.........

This morning the Lord said that He would send someone to me down at our local shops. So before lunch I donned my trainers and went for a walk, which conveniently brought me to the shops. Sitting on a rather cold steel bench I started to watch the people around me all the time asking the Holy Spirit if this was the one. After a lot of 'Nos' I was once again having to draw on Christ's patience, and determination to stick with it.
After quite a while I turned to my right and saw this rather large young woman about to cross the road and come towards the shops. I asked Daddy if this was the one. 'Yes'. The voice came to me. Not wishing to miss her I got off the bench and caught up her on the pavement. I introduced myself, expecting her to stop, but she didn't. So I quickly said, 'I just want to tell you that God loves you,' as she continued walking. She was pretty much past me by now but she turned her head and gave me a look that could wither a wombat at 100 paces.
I began to walk home feeling a bit deflated.
 'That didn't go well Lord,' I said.
'She gave you an ugly look as she feels ugly inside, and doesn't believe anyone loves her. I can use what you said to her. That's all I wanted you to do. Well done son.' Came the reply.

Still taking classes......

In the school of the Holy Spirit the term continues a pace. As well as the guidance class I visited the stronghold class the other day. The stronghold class is the place where the Spirit gently confronts me with lies I still believe that are buried deep within and have to be confronted so repentance can take place.
Daddy asked me. 'What are you afraid off?
Without me having to think I replied. 'I'm afraid you won't accept me based on Christ's work alone, but only if I do what you tell me to do.'
Then we had a little chat to get that straightened out.
'You do not believe you are good enough to be accepted', the gentle voice continued. 'You are right you were not good enough that's why I took you to the cross. Now your acceptance is based on My acceptance of Jesus, not on anything you have done or can do. Just repent and change your thinking, and every time thoughts rise up on this subject remember who you are in Christ.'
I wouldn't miss my time with the Holy Spirit. I'm a slow learner and most times it takes repeated lessons for me to get it. Iknow I have it, but it takes me time to get the knowing. Comprende?

Another lesson...

Yesterday in town I met a fellow Christian and arranged to meet up this morning for a spot of outreach, I agreed to bring along my 'free healing prayer' sign. At the agreed time he was nowhere to be seen and my sign was still in the bin liner. I waited another 15 mins. and by this time I was sure I had been set up by God as my friend was still missing. I had never been into town with my sign alone, now I faced one of two strategies. I could either get back on the bus and go home, or get the sign out and see what God was going to do.

I will be honest with you it took me a bit of time to air the sign after walking round town and discussing the situation with Dad. But I did manage it and sat on a seat in full view of a pedestrian crossing and a moderate pedestrian flow. I sat there and sat there and time seemed to stand still. I realised that this exercise was not about who God wanted to heal but for me to have my reputation shattered. After a long time an Indian lady and her small son sat on the bench next to me, and after a while her husband joined her. He asked me where he could buy cheap suitcases as he had been told Bridgend was the place. As I chatted with him he asked me what the sign was for as he couldn't understand it. So I had a good opportunity to explain to him that Jesus paid for our healing on the cross and I was just offering to pray for anyone who asked. That seemed to satisfy him, and the family moved off with goodbyes all round.

The Holy Spirit then told me not to leave town until a certain time and that I wasn't to put the sign back in the bin liner until I reached the bus station. On the way back to the bus station I was directed to give a lady selling the big issue £5. I found the lady who is from Rumanian [I think] and knelt on the floor in front of her and asked her if she spoke English. She indicated a little so I gave her the money. I asked her name, and explaining I was a Christian, asked if I could pray for her. Well this little lady's face was beaming and all she could say was, 'Thank you', 'Thank you very much'.  What a privilege to be able to enter the lives of these dear ones whose culture and background is so different from mine. Thank you Jesus.

Buzzing....

 

Well its mid week and everything is tickety boo. Five weeks into the lifestyle change and I can't believe the buzz in my soul. I know my spirit man is hunky dory, but now my soul is catching up. Great dollops of grace have been afforded to me from Pappa to move from carnivore to Genesis 1:29, but more than that the strongholds that I struggled with have disappeared. Any residue of guilt has evaporated, and the Gospel is becoming a powerful force in my life. On track to complete reliance, and obedience to Jesus, allows Grace to flow more freely. Yesterday I had to be humble before Father as He told me to lay down all my political interests, and ambitions; which have been with me all my adult life, and to become an activist for Jesus. I don't know what else will go, but you know what I don't give a rip. Jesus will have the pre-eminence in my life and I welcome it.
Its fine and dandy in the Glory.

 

More Discipleship...

An idea I had for a long time was to ask if I could pray for anyone seeking a a job outside our local Job Centre. This morning on my way to the bus station I stopped beside the centre and waited until a young man and a girl hand in hand came towards me. I politely asked if they were looking for a job, they answered that they were. I said in reply that I could not give them a job, but asked if I could pray for them to find a job. Go for it, or something like that the lad said. His female friend seemed a bit embarrassed, but I launched into prayer regardless. I shook the lads hand after I had finished and they went into the building. I moved across the way a little and paused for thought.
'Did I tell you to do that?', a soft voice whispered.
'No.' I replied quietly.
'So then why did you do it?'
'I thought it was a good idea'.
'Son I'm telling you I don't need your good ideas, all I ask you to do is what I ask you to do. Is there any part of that you don't understand?'
'No Daddy you have made it plain enough even for me.'

More Lord.

In the Holy Spirit academy classes are tailor made for each individual irrespective of gender, age, or nationality. I have been in a class called Discipline for a while now. I don't know if anyone else has been in there with me but it's not so much hard, as 'focussed'. The basis of the 'instruction' is the obedience to what God is actually saying, not just in the word, but from the very Word Himself.
I'll give you an example. Recently God was re-emphasising His explicit desire for me to tell people He loves them. I won't bore you with the issues I flung up over that since the nineteen eighties, but you know God, He is persistent. He told me that I was to speak the words to the people.
'Signs and wonders are good, social action is good, relationships are good, but you must speak the words to the people. Just as in Jesus's time man is accountable to the words he hears.' So we have been developing that together in the practical part of the lesson. Just the other day as I was reading from John's gospel, and focussing on Christ's willingness and desire to do the Father's will, and not His own I came upon these scriptures.
'Anyone who rejects Me and persistently sets Me at naught, refusing to accept My teachings, has his judge [however]; for the [very] message that I have SPOKEN will itself judge and convict him at the last day. This is because I have never spoken on My own authority, or of my own accord, or as self-appointed, but the Father Who sent Me has Himself given Me orders......... John 12:48,49. Amp.
Having a desire to live like Jesus is the green light for the Holy Spirit to get to work. As it was for Jesus so it is for us.

Amazed.

Earlier in the week I was thinking where me and memsahib could go today for a drive as the weather is still gorgeous. I contemplated some options but my mind came fixed on going to Chepstow. I thought it was a good idea to take some photos in the area and also to check my reservation in a local hotel that I had made last year for the Beachley Old Boys Association shindig on the 18th. After a leisurely picnic in the castle grounds, and a walk down to the river Wye I went into the hotel reception. No I was not on the list for the 18th. and the manager who 'does the emails', wasn't in till 3pm. There was a room available, which in itself was fantastic as Chepstow gets full up for the BOBA get together. It was a double and cost £10 more than the single I had already been promised, so I booked it. I told the receptionist to tell the manager I wasn't a happy chappie and left telling her I would dig out the email from the Hotel and bring it with me so I had leverage for a £10 pound discount.
I'm amazed that the Holy Spirit can drop a thought into my mind that not only gives me a great day out but prevents an incident when I turn up at said Hotel later in the month and find I'm not booked in. It has happened to me once before in my home town Tiverton when I booked for a rock and roll weekend and I had to sleep on the lounge floor of the B&B because the person who took my booking and didn't write it in the calendar, had moved on.

FELLOWSHIP

In John chapter 15 Jesus gives quite detailed instructions as to how we are to live our lives. The analogy with the grape vine, something His followers would be familiar with, teaches us that without Him we can do nothing. But again it's not Him giving us strength to live our own lives, but a clear indication that He is the vine and we are the branches. We are to allow His life to be lived in and through us. Then Jesus states that if we love Him we will keep His commandments. As we abide in and have fellowship with Him we will hear His voice and out of love we will obey.
That's how Jesus lived His life. Secure in the Father's love for Him, He returned that love by obeying the Father's commands.
Daddy said to me this morning that He wanted to show me His commandments are not irksome, as He knows how apprehensive I can get over the thought of His commandments. Too much military influence in my life, firstly from my lovely natural Father, and then with my own Army experiences.

PARADIGM SHIFT, again?

Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, is an easily recognisable verse from scripture, sometimes the application isn't so easy. My problem is I get a little revelation on a subject, then promptly move off onto something else the next day. I'm so glad that in this season God is nailing me, yipeee. The most important thing Daddy wants me to grasp is at least two fold. I say two fold with trepidation, as I know like a diamond it will be multi faceted. The first is centred on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, and His resurrection. He did all of it, I can't add a thing to it, and that I shouldn't try; but hey, don't we all subconsciously if nor overtly? Very important in all of this is that Christ's sacrifice is the only offering Daddy will accept. This frees us up to turn away from ourselves and to focus on Jesus alone, and on His performance. The second revelation involves the indwelling presence of Jesus in my spirit. Some people say heart, but I prefer spirit. Let me ask you a question. Why did God want to come and live in us? Yes for relationship to be restored. OK let me rephrase the question. If Jesus, and the Father come to live in us by the Spirit do you think He wants to remain in our spirits doing nothing while we continue to live out our so called 'christian' life?
Is it not so called 'christian humanism' if we live our lives expecting God to strengthen us, or empower us, so we can do what we think we should do for Him. Isn't it more honouring to God to humbly recognise His indwelling presence, and ask Him what He wants to do in and through us? Here is a little word Daddy whispered to me this morning.
'It's not you receiving strength from Me to live on a daily basis, but about you humbling yourself and allowing Me to live through you, with my resources. That is why listening to Me is so important. You listen not so much for what you are to do, but for what I wish to do.'
The paradigm shift is away from me and onto Jesus in every area of my existence here sojourning on planet earth. So in all things He may have the supremacy. This is not to say that the presence of the Holy Spirit is not continually working in us both do will and to do of the Father's will, He just wants us to recognise the right way to live.

Discipline...

Ever since I became a Christian I've always been fascinated by the life of Jesus. The way He lived and did ministry, everything about Him is so awesome. Naturally I began to articulate my hearts desire to be like Him to Father. Twenty eight years in I find my self in a situation of extreme discipline. For the past few months the Lord has emphatically spoken to me about the priority of relationship, and listening to His voice. Jesus explained this to His listeners in John chapter 5, and it's always been part of my desires. But do you know what? I find it extremely difficult to hear His voice when I am talking to other people. I find myself rabbiting on in my usual charming way, but not hearing what Jesus may want to say. Then of course come obedience, now that's another story. I was a bit frustrated yesterday about my difficulties and felt a bit like jacking it in, but Daddy was quite strong with me. He reminded me of how many times Thomas Edison failed to create the electric light bulb, but he never quit. He asked me how long would a concert pianist practise to be perfect, or how many times a baseball pitcher would hone his skills? Perseverance, and determination are not words heard a lot in our culture but they are important to God. I've got to get stuck in and learn some 'stick to it ness.'

It may be small, but it's important.

This morning the Holy Spirit told me he would send someone to me if I went into town. It was pouring with rain as I got on the bus but fortunately it has eased off a bit when I arrived at the bus station. I went to get my daily paper in Smith's and as I left the shop the Spirit began to direct me around the streets. After I while I was directed to stand on a corner where the bridge over the Ogmore river joins the town. So I waited, I soon got bored and told the Spirit. 'Wait a bit more'. Was the reply. This happened twice more so I stayed put. Then without me noticing him a young man with a piece of paper in his hand was on my left side. He was obviously a foreigner and he asked me where the place was that was written on his note. It happened to be our civic offices so I moved around the corner a couple of steps, with him following me, and I pointed across the river to the building. He had his piece of paper out of my hand and was moving off when I asked him where he was from.
'Latvia', he said.
'God bless you, and have a good day'. I replied as he walked away form me.
'Daddy was that it?' I asked.
'That's it.' came the reply.
It may not have be very significant for me but I believe every little encounter is very important to God. Who knows what the Spirit can do with that small sentence of mine in the heart of a young man from Latvia.

Wandering

 I do quite a bit of wandering. Earlier in my life I spent a lot of time loitering for Jesus, a habit I learnt a long time ago when I first came home on leave from the Army. Then I just loitered around town waiting for some one to talk to. I needed a couple of things in town so I grabbed the bus. Having the bus pass is such a great blessing, it's the best thing WAG has come up with in my opinion. I wandered over to ASDA where I am always given a warm welcome by my ex colleagues, and where Jesus always gives me opportunities to minister. G. was there on her electric scooter. She goes to a local pentecostal church and is always such a blessing. Being able to encourage her is a real tonic. Then there was a lady in George, the clothing department. Conversations are often quick but today I had time to tell her that Jesus loved her, and that she is real special to God. Just saying Hi to the girls on the till is such a fillip for them in their daily, often tedious routines. I never underestimate a smile and a wave. L. whose marriage broke up recently was feeling much better than the last time I spoke with her, and I just stood by her and let the Glory of God influence her. There was a young girl on the check outs in Wilkinsons that I was able to interact with. Jesus was very good at making relationships, and I want to be like Him. I always address staff by their name if I can read it on their name badge.
Going to the bus station I managed a quick God loves to to H. a lady I often see in town but today she was too busy to stop. Nothing is ever wasted by the Holy Spirit, it may not seem like a super duper spiritual day but for me I never underestimate the small relational bridges in my life. Friends are the highest placed people to influence the world for Christ.

Catholic Adoption charity fails in it's argument...

Reading a piece in the Daily Telegraph I came upon this startling piece of information. catholic Adoption agency to close due to gay rights law This is about the last Catholic Adoption agency, Catholic Care. They were attempting to get around  Labours Equality laws. I quote from the article :- 'Catholic Care had argued that a clause of Labours Sexual Orientation Regulations inserted to ensure gay organisations could not be sued for discrimination, entitled it to change it's "charitable objects". Their defence failed. Were you aware that Labour had inserted this clause to protect homosexuals?  So much for New Labours equality, it has been proven under our governments rule some people are more equal than others.

Omniscient

That's a nice old word, omniscient, rolls off the tongue beautifully. I am so glad God is, and He knows what He is doing and He is in charge. Sorry Nick if you think you can pull a few flankers while wee Dave is emmetting in Cornwall, God's got it covered. No matter what is happening in our fallen world Big Daddy has it all under control, and He is laughing at satan's plans to dethrone Him.
As the Holy Spirit leads me back to John chapter 5; verses 19, and 30 have been and are continuing to be so important for me. Minute by minute Jesus only did what He heard, and saw the Father do. That was very specific for His life and ministry, but I wondered what was on the Fathers mind. Although Jesus's ministry involved many sings and wonders, remarkable teaching, and lots of good works it all pointed not only to Jesus as Messiah, but something we dare not forget.
 God's plan was to restore His created human beings back into relationship with Him, and that required Jesus dying on the cross, and being raised from the dead. To receive reconciliation we must receive salvation. Paul tells us in 1 Timothy 2v4 that He desires all men to be saved.
You can be assured that every person you come in contact with is on God's heart because He desires their salvation. Jesus wants to continue His ministry through us and it is to save people from their present hopeless situation, and to be reconciled to God who is love. So no matter what God calls you to do someone's salvation is at the bottom of it.

I'm a Blessed man.........

I had an appointment with the top dermatologist at 9am this morning. I was in and out by one minute after nine, with the all clear. Popping up to Audiology I asked if they could check my ears for wax, as we have to queue in our Dr's. surgery. No problem the young lady remarked as she poked the instrument in my earnie. All clear she said after a little look see. Driving home then I thought as it was such a lovely day that we ought to go to the National Botanic Garden as we planned last Thursday. Memsahib was up for it and so after hanging out the washing, and packing lunch we set off. The garden was beautiful in the summer sunshine. I was pleased to see quite a few people there as well as some foreign tourists, that will help with the income. All of the garden has matured really well now since the garden was planted, and there is such a difference going in the summer, as opposed to the winter or spring. It was very pleasant sitting in the fresh air eating our lunch picnic style. Salad as usual for me, and a bottle of water that came free with my daily newspaper today. I noticed the water was French, I only took it as it was free. Why are we importing, and why are people buying French water in Wales? When I was last in town I went to Boots for a bottle of water and two French brands were virtually on eye level and I had to search for Welsh water, it was on the bottom of the display to the right. As a plus it was cheaper too. Is there a reason why French water is being marketed so heavily in Wales? I need answers.

Another Day.

Life is getting better by the minute. After my walk this morning, and lunch I've just painted the bathroom ceiling when I said I would, take note boys, valuable free tip there. Yesterday in town I visited ASDA and bought a lap top mouse, which has made the note book operation much smoother. I was also able to bless some of my ex colleagues in the store. I had given a New Testament to a lady by divine appointment yesterday her till was vacant long enough for me to speak lots of truth into her life, and pray for her. One other lady has just seen her husband go back to his ex girlfriend after 6 months of marriage. I know a little about her back ground so I was able to minister encouragement to her in a loving way. That's one thing about keeping good relations with your ex colleagues you always have an entrance into their lives if God allows.

Day 9

I thought I had blogged a post yesterday via my note pad, but it looks like a technology glitch has occurred. Anyway yesterday we had a trip into Swansea, where I bought some more nuts. Boring? Well I still think salad is but I'm pressing on. I got on the scales yesterday am and found the needle had dropped by 5 ks. Now I'm not saying 5 ks. of fat has disappeared, I'm only reporting what the needle says. Getting back to the salad, I bought a take away one in town today on my way round today, and it was lousy. I'm being spoilt by our own tomatoes, and lettuce. So my taste buds can tell the difference between the quality of the salad crops, but can't kick in yet to make me fall in love with the stuff.
On a more spiritual note I'm actually doing what God told me to do in 1993. There is more than a second chance with our Daddy, I'm glad to report. Maybe I'll elaborate on this later. On a very positive note I popped down to visit Adrian this evening he came out of hospital today after intensive surgery. He is weak, but he will make a full recovery under the loving care of his fantastic wife.

On Course

Yesterday I had a great visit with my pal John in Cardiff. It was such a pity it rained heavily, and right up until I arrived back into Bridgend. I bought a coffee for John and a bottle of water for me in Wetherspoons and we had a good old natter. Then we plucked up strength and nipped over to an arcade off St. Mary's Street, where I was able to buy my apple cider vinegar in a health food shop. We also strolled around a deli. and made a visit to the indoor market where I bought a fresh salad take away, and John picked up a roll. I had told John about my move to healthy eating and he was very supportive. He had been doing a little experimenting himself because of health issues in his family, and he wants to protect himself. I got home just after 3pm and was pleased that I had made the effort to see him.
I had the vinegar for lunch today on my salad, and it was very tasty. I also juiced some carrots that Chris got in our veg. box  which we get from our local smallholder. It tasted OK and I put the remainder in the fridge for tomorrow. I've been sticking with the water and find I am getting a liking for it now, which is a bonus.
Tomorrow is weighing day, it will be interesting to see how I have got on.

Onwards and Upwards

I knew that Saturday would be a challenge as I had to get up early for the Breakfast Run with no time for my barley powder [instead of breakfast], and I had to face the night shift on Street Pastors. Well the morning was successful. I didn't find it too difficult as the bacon and sausages were being cooked for the rough sleepers, nor did I help myself to a spare bacon roll at the end of the ministry. The night proved to be more problematic and I was hungry after eating a banana at the first 'tea break' so I admit to having two slices white toast, not good; and a pot noodle as well. The pot noodle is probably less harmful than you may think as most of the ingredients are natural, and there are no additives.
I admit to finding the salads a bit boring and not very tasty at the moment, so I must experiment with ways of firing up the taste. That's the trouble with meat and processed foods, they are design to be enjoyable as there is plenty of money involved to make sure they are. I wait with anticipation for my taste buds to return to enjoying good wholesome foods.
I'm having a day out with a friend of mine in Cardiff tomorrow. I have yet to tell him about my lifestyle change, and I look forward to his reaction. I'm looking forward to poking around in the Deli's as I want to buy some apple cider vinegar if I can find some, and anything else that I might find interesting. I'm sure I can find some veggie shops in the City. I have been encouraged by both Liz, and Jonathan, when I told them about my choice to switch to healthy eating. They email me very complimentary responses and some tips too.
So it's onwards and upwards. Only 5 days in and my water intake is increasing well, oh and I went for a walk this morning for the first time in ages and found my hip less troublesome. Good to be out in the fresh air even if it was raining.

The Journey starts with One Step.

I found having Liz and Jonathan, both minimalist eaters, I don't know if they would be comfortable with the term vegan; with me in Germany quite challenging. I took a look at Jon's. website when I can home. Honestly I haven't really looked after my body living in the arrogance that having a good constitution was enough. Well Hallelujah Acres in N. Carolina took my eye, and one of their books, the Hallelujah Diet, was available on Amazon so I ordered it. I didn't take much convincing to see that I had really been abusing my body by the things that I ate and drank. I also knew that my excess weight, and lack of discipline, had to be addressed. I had been praying about some addictive traits in my lifestyle for some time expecting God to 'deliver' me as He had done over my nicotine addiction 27yrs. ago, but nothing had changed. I am more convinced now that God used the trip to Germany as a catalyst to front me up to take responsibility for my own health and well being.
So I took the plunge last Wed. and began a whole new lifestyle. I am experiencing some mild detox symptoms but will press through because I know benefits will come. Already I am amazed with the fact that I don't feel hungry, and my desire for alcohol has abated. I'll keep you updated.   Hallelujah Acres

Fun Day Wildmill Park 4 8 2010

Psalm 23

Jesus said that he came to heal the broken hearted. I am so glad about that aren't you? Much of our hurts and pain is rooted in lies that we chose to believe, particularly when we were younger. Jesus also said we were to know the truth and the truth would set us free. Is there a link between the truth of scripture, and having healed hearts? I think so. Fear also operates through deception, and fear has no place in love, as perfected love casts out fear. The core issue is to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Not to think as the world thinks, and not to continue thinking and agreeing with the lies we grew up with, hence Psalm 23.

The fear of lack, spawned by the orphan 'spirit' causes anxiety and jealousy, and covetousness. The fear that I will never have enough, makes me jealous of others who have more than me, and will promote the urge to offset the anxiety by working to attain 'things'. This is a familiar worldly mindset, which is part of the Babylon system we all grew up in. But it is totally un Godly. The Babylon system of the world seeks to prosper apart from God, to live apart from God, and is totally self centred. I must repent. Turn from that way of thinking and choose by faith to agree with the truth.  THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD I SHALL NOT LACK.............If I continue to sow truth then I shall reap a harvest. There is truth in God's word for whatever is ailing us.

Grace

When Jesus described the Holy Spirit to His disciples He used the the phrase, 'He will guide you into all truth.' The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. Part of His amazing ministry to the body of Christ is to continually, lovingly, and steadfastly bring truth into our lives. Having been brought up in a fallen world with a mindset that is programmed by miss truth and lies, the Holy Spirit is the person to aid me as I seek to have my mind renewed to truth. One of the biggest problems the Spirit works on in my life is the lie that works, and performance, earn acceptance. This lie is so subliminal that half of the time I don't know I'm thinking that way until I am gently prodded with the truth. Abba is telling Me continuously that 'works', and performance is not the most important emphasis, love is. His love for us is unconditional. Not conditioned by our performance, or behaviour. Ouch! This is where grace comes in. Almighty God, creator of the universes, Holy, and Righteous, chooses to love us, because He chooses to love us, not determined by what we do. This is the gospel, the pure wine of the gospel. I am loved because God chooses to love me, all of me, all of the time.

Lonliness

I was in town this morning. The sun was out, it was relaxed, I had met a couple of people I knew, and before catching the bus home I popped into Fox's for a pint. It's very comfortable wine bar and I was able to sit looking out at people passing by. After a little while I began to experience a sense of loneliness. I didn't think it was for me but for men in general. Men have their own pressures, they are expected to be good bread winners, good partners, good fathers, good at everything really. We all know that men fail. The problem is this sense of failure brings with it a feeling of loneliness. I don't think many men are able to articulate the emotional stuff that goes on in their lives. The answer is Jesus, and His love, but how many men have an opportunity, or desire, to share their personal pain with others?