Beautiful Grace

Genesis 22-24: I Choose You

2012-01-28T07:30:00.000-05:00

by
Giovanni Tiepolo c. 1726

I find it is easier to trust God when He directly reveals His plan to me, rather then to trust God where people are involved.

When God revealed the plan of using Issac as a sacrifice to Abraham, Abraham trusted and obeyed. When Abraham half-lied about Sarah being his sister (she was his half sister), he needed to trust in God to protect him from men whom he thought most probably did not hear God.

In my own life, I have been involved in situations where I needed to trust God for protection against people who claimed to hear Him. It was the worst season of emotional upheaval in my life, yet even in that dark chapter of my life, I see the good.

I learned that God's ultimate purpose for my life on this earth depended more on my response to those who misread my heart, than to the discomfort I felt in the battle.

Learning to forgive, even love those who hurt me, has been my most important life lesson thus far. Learning to listen only to what God says about me and not heed satan's voice through others has done wonders for my self-esteem or more specifically, it helped me to understand and accept who God has made me to be.

Sadly, there remain scars from that season, deep scars in myself and others. I still am trusting God for complete restoration of all that was damaged and lost, but it no longer consumes my thoughts. All will be restored in His time! Maybe on this earth or maybe not until we enter heaven. He knows what's best!

God also knew what was best for Abraham and Issac. He knew that Abraham would choose Him over his beloved Issac. I believe God was giving Abraham the opportunity to know himself, what he would do if given a choice between something in this world or the One Eternal God.

I was given the opportunity to choose God over my reputation and that opportunity showed me both strengths and weaknesses in my character.

My friends, don't despise a dark season. It may very well be the time in your life when learn to know the real you, and learn to love the real you!

Holy Spirit, minister to my friends. Cause them to hear Your voice above all other voices. Empower them to choose You, no matter the consequences. In the wonderful name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Genesis 19-21: Everything Shall Live

2012-01-27T08:04:00.001-05:00

Genesis 19:29 “When God ravaged and destroyed the cities of the plain [of Siddim], He [earnestly] remembered Abraham [imprinted and fixed him indelibly on His mind], and He sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow when He overthrew the cities where Lot lived.”

In reading these chapters, I remembered that the Valley of Siddim was mentioned in Genesis 14:3-8, describing the battle between the kings reigning over that area. According to Genesis 14:3, the Valley of Siddim “…is [now] the [Dead] Sea of Salt.”

I thought it was interesting that the very area destroyed by God for its wickedness, now it filled with salt. Not only was Lot’s wife turned to a pillar of salt, but I believe this whole area was changed to salt as a result of God’s judgement.

Regular marine life cannot grow or live in the dead sea because of its high saline (salt) content. The Dead Sea is a reminder of the consequences of sin, and just how far reaching those consequences can be.

But even in this stark reminder of sin’s consequences, redemption is apparent. Algae, fungi and bacteria living in the Dead Sea have been used in medical treatments. And, according to Ezekiel 47:8 & 9, one day sin’s mark will be cleansed and healed.

8 “Then he said to me, These waters pour out toward the eastern region and go down into the Arabah (the Jordan Valley) and on into the Dead Sea. And when they shall enter into the sea [the sea of putrid waters], the waters shall be healed and made fresh.”

9 “And wherever the double river shall go, every living creature which swarms shall live. And there shall be a very great number of fish, because these waters go there that [the waters of the sea] may be healed and made fresh; and everything shall live wherever the river goes.”

Our God is One of righteousness and redemption!!!

http://www.bible-history.com/isbe/S/SIDDIM,+VALE+OF/

http://www.ehow.com/about_5438618_can-anything-live-dead-sea.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Sea

Genesis 16-18: Promotion, A Spiritual Barometer

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Genesis 16: 3 & 4

“So Sarai, Abram’s wife, took Hagar her Egyptian maid, after Abram had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his [secondary] wife.”

“And he had intercourse with Hagar, and she became pregnant; and when she saw that she was with child, she looked with contempt upon her mistress and despised her.”

Promotion can be a barometer of spiritual maturity. Hagar, Sarai’s Egyptian maid, is “promoted” to the status of the secondary wife of Abram. Hagar’s spiritual immaturity is apparent as she reacts with haughtiness towards her mistress.

Although Hagar was carrying Abram’s child, Sarai was given permission to “…do as you please with her.” Sarai dealt severely with Hagar, humbling and afflicting her.(Genesis 16:6)

As God’s favor fills our lives, promotion is inevitable. What we do with that promotion will bring to light areas of immaturity that need to be sifted out of us. God’s grace (His power) is made available to the humble. He resists the proud.

James 4:6
“But He gives us more and more grace ( power of the Holy Spirit, to meet this evil tendency and all others fully). That is why He says, God sets Himself against the proud and haughty, but gives grace [continually] to the lowly (those who are humble enough to receive it).”

Abba, empower me with humility at all times, if Your favor brings promotion, then I will continue to praise and glorify You, as the One Who gives all good things. Praise and honor and glory be to Jesus, AMEN!!!

Genisis 12-15: Trust Him Even If

2012-01-25T09:29:00.002-05:00

Genesis 15:12 “When the sun was setting, a deep sleep overcame Abram, and a horror (a terror, a shuddering fear) of great darkness assailed and oppressed him.”

13 “And [God] said to Abram, Know positively that your descendants will be strangers dwelling as temporary residents in a land that is not theirs [Egypt], and they will be slaves there and will be afflicted and oppressed for 400 years.” [Fulfilled in Exodus 12:40.]

God had just promised Abram that his heir would “come from your [his] own body,” (15:4) Abraham responds to God with worship. God’s response to worship is to open up Abram’s dream life to a prophetic word to be fulfilled through his progeny 400 years in the future.

Why would God give Abram a beautiful prophetic word in the form a promised heir then given another prophetic word that caused “a terror, a shuddering fear” to oppress him?

I believe it is because prophetic words are tested.

Will we trust in the heart of God even if His word scares us silly? Will we give up on God’s promises in the midst of the battle for their fulfillment?

Holy Spirit, refresh, renew, re-empower me to stand firm in the battle, war for the promises You have given whether pleasant or scary, knowing that You have good in mind for me and for my progeny for the glory and honor of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Job 40-42: Now My Eye Sees

2012-01-24T08:56:00.002-05:00

Job 42:5 “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; But now my eye sees You;…”

Why does it sometimes take great warfare to open our spiritual eyes? Is it because great warfare causes us to become desperate for God, a degree of desperation not attained with smooth sailing through favorable circumstances? Does a difficult battle teach us that only God has the power to direct our lives and control our destinies? Does the pain of warfare propel us to a position of dependence, driving us to our knees?

Whatever the reason, a season of loss and difficulty does have the power to to open our eyes to the Father, (Who never leaves or forsakes us) if we allow our hearts to be turned toward Him and not hardened against Him.

Job 38-39: The Hiding Place of His Power

2012-01-23T08:21:00.001-05:00

Interesting that this posting comes today in light of Bill Burns prophecy for 2012. I love how the Lord speaks to His friends! I love You, Lord, and I'll always lift my voice to worship You. Oh, my soul rejoices!!!"

This same God Who directs the details of creation, also holds us in the palm of His hand, the hiding place of His power.

Habakkuk 3:4

“And His brightness was like the sunlight; rays streamed from His hand, and there [in the sunlike splendor] was the hiding place of His power.”

No matter the less than favorable circumstances surrounding us at times, the truth remains that our God holds us and His power surrounds.

Recently, I was asked by a young woman, “How long will it take until God answers my prayer.” Before answering, I sought the Holy Spirit for the words which would impart perseverance. I told her that God intents for us to be warriors and the only way we can be transformed into strong warriors is learn to fight.

Judges 3:2

“It was only that the generations of the Israelites might know and be taught war, at least those who previously knew nothing of it.”

Sometimes circumstances are allowed by God in order to strengthen us for greater challenges ahead, but all the while He is with us to comfort our souls in the midst of the battle. The Lord recently gave me a dream that gave instruction in the ways of warfare...peace, the opposite spirit, remaining seated with Him, and vigilance.

Lord, thank You for instructing and keeping me in the midst of battle. Empower me to remain in the great peace you have provided, dancing with you in joy as that battle rages. :) I am a skilled warrior empowered by You!!! To You be the honor and glory forever and ever...AMEN!!!

2012 A YEAR OF DISCOVERY by Bill Burns---Parts 1 and 2

2012-01-22T10:32:00.000-05:00

2012 A YEAR OF DISCOVERY by Bill Burns -- Part 1:

2012 will become known as a year of discovery. As we begin to live under the rule of God's divine government, the mysteries of the end of the age will be revealed. The hidden manna (the mysteries) will be given, and revelation of God's purposes will come forth (Revelation 2:17).
The establishment of God's government, which will lead to discovery, will begin with a season of recovery.
The Trumpet: I say unto you, truly, truly, that this is the day of recovery, so rise up with hope renewed. Gain access into My goodness. For, surely I will restore that which has been stolen. I have come to set My people free, and I continue in the process by restoring them from time to time when it is necessary. Receive today the power of restoration and let the spirit of the living God now invade your spiritual space; let it over take you; let it embrace you.
Divine Government
The Trumpet--October 3, 2011: I prophesy to you that the Feast of Trumpets will birth a new season that will come into full manifestation and go forth in great strength into 2012. This will be the beginning of God's government becoming very, very apparent to us. The blessings of that government will come when we are living under His rule.
Go forth with great joy, for indeed these are the days of the manifestation of My kingdom. In these days the reality of a supernatural church will begin to be understood in the land and will be according to My purposes, says the Lord. It is My will for My people to live in the glory of the supernatural realm. The supernatural events that you desire to see will become a reality, which will establish you in a greater measure of faith than ever before. So, arise and come forth into kingdom purpose, says the Lord God Almighty.
Divine government will be the result of establishing the kingdom. God's rule will begin in 2012. Twelve has always been the number of God's government; this has been established in scripture and by divine pattern.
God's government began with the twelve tribes of Israel and continued in the New Testament with the designation of the twelve apostles. The rule of God and of the Lamb (Revelation 22:3) will be in place for eternity. Again, the number 12 is found in God's eternal city, the New Jerusalem (Revelation chapter 21).
The city has 12 gates and 12 angels at the gates. The names of the 12 tribes of Israel is written on them. The wall of the city has 12 foundations with the names of the 12 apostles on them. The city is 12,000 furlongs in length, breadth and height, and there are 12 precious stones on the foundations of the wall of that city.

The Vision
On January 1, 2012, the Lord gave me this scripture:
Habakkuk 2:1-3 I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart, And watch to see what He will say to me, And what I will answer when I am corrected. Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.
When I read this scripture, I knew that it had to do with God's divine government, and I knew that it would be progressive in nature-not all at once. However, the vision is for an appointed time (2012).I then saw the beginning manifestation of the kingdom and that it would be as it was in the beginning of the rule of the King of kings.
Luke 2:41-42 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
Luke 2:46-47 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
Jesus at age 12 went into the temple (place of government), and the scripture says He was in the midst of those there-on the third day.
Hosea 6:1-3 Come, and let us return to the LORD; For He has torn, but He will heal us; He has stricken, but He will bind us up. After two days He will revive us; On the third day He will raise us up, That we may live in His sight. Let us know, Let us pursue the knowledge of the LORD. His going forth is established as the morning; He will come to us like the rain, Like the latter and former rain to the earth.
As we come completely under His rule, He will come to us, lead us, and guide us by His Spirit. He will reveal that which is hidden. (Isaiah 48:6) We are in the third day of Christ, who is establishing His third-day government over His people. Habakkuk says in 2:3 that at the end, the vision will speak.
Revelation 11:15 Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!"
So the end time (third-day government) rule of Christ will begin in 2012 with a season of recovery, and then discovery as our King reveals the mysteries of the end of the age to His people. The manifestation of the kingdom will be progressive and become complete when Christ returns to set up His physical kingdom here on earth.
Signs In The Earth (Acts 2:19)
The sign that is visible regarding the need for divine government was given in 2011. The protests and uprisings against governments around the world have taken place, from the Arab Springs uprising to the Wall Street protestors in the USA. It is clear that the governments of men are ineffective. Even the congress in our country is dysfunctional. The world needs divine government and the Church does also.
First the natural signs, then the spiritual signs will follow. The scripture declares the spiritual reality of the rule of God over His people.
Revelation 19:15-16 Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
The Resistance
Satan will fight against the establishment of God's government. The battle is going to heat up. This is the season that the prophet Jeremiah spoke about.
Jeremiah 12:5 "If you have run with the footmen, and they have wearied you, Then how can you contend with horses? And if in the land of peace, In which you trusted, they wearied you, Then how will you do in the floodplain of the Jordan?"
Horses represent spiritual power-in the Church apostolic power and in Satan's kingdom the power of darkness.
The floodplain of the Jordan is historically known as the battleground between Israel, or God's people, and their enemies.
The horses that Jeremiah talked about represent the rulers of darkness that the apostle Paul identifies in:
Ephesians 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
If the footmen (lower level demons) have worn God's people out, how can we contend (war) with the rulers of darkness in the heavenlies (spirit realm)?

The Victory
Unless the Lord helps us we will not have victory over the rulers of darkness. However, the Lord will help us. He will empower us for warfare. He will lead us in victory because it is written:
2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.
The Lord of Hosts will also reveal the plan of the rulers of darkness to His people. The promise He has given for 2012 is found in:
Isaiah 45:3 I will give you the treasures of darkness And hidden riches of secret places, That you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, Am the God of Israel.
The total of the number of this scripture is 12, and the treasures of darkness will provide the Lord's instruction for war and will also reveal Satan's plans for the rulers of darkness.
The Lord's horses represent apostolic power for war (Revelation 19:11-15). Apostolic power for war will come to the Church under God's divine government. Zechariah 10:1-3 tells us that at the time of the latter rain, which is in the third day of Christ (Hosea 6:3), the Lord will make His people as "His royal horse in battle."
The royal (kingly) horses will defeat the rulers of darkness and put them to shame.
Zechariah 10:5 They shall be like mighty men, who tread down their enemies in the mire of the streets in the battle. They shall fight because the LORD is with them, and the riders on horses shall be put to shame.
Victory is assured by the word of the Lord and the sign in the earth, which was released on Christmas Day, the movie with the title of "War Horse."
God's divine government will be established in a time of intense spiritual warfare. The good news is that we win if we fight the good fight of faith.

2012 A YEAR OF DISCOVERY -- Part 2
by BILL BURNS

Testing Times

The tests of this season will be two-fold. We will be tested with regard to our willingness to live under God’s rule and to obey Him…or not. He will lead and guide us, but we must follow. We will also be tested (tempted by Satan) to rebel against God’s rule and His word.

The Trumpet (December 5): You have been taught My word, and My ways have been revealed to you by the spirit of truth. You have been equipped by the spirit of power as you have embraced the gifts of the Spirit and have believed that you can operate in these. And now you are entering a time of testing so that you can apply that which you have learned and that which you have received. In this season you can pass the tests that come by using the authority that you have been given. Luke 10:19 "Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” These tests will strengthen you and will teach you responsibility and integrity. They will equip you to be more than conquerors and enable you to be overcomers. This is an important season in which I am preparing My people to become a glorious church. It is a season in which you must live by My prophetic and written word. You must now learn to apply by faith My words to every test, and if you do so, you will have victory and reason for celebration.

Present vision will be established as you embrace the challenges of this season. Rejoice and be glad for the time of the victory and the Day of My power is at hand, says the Lord.

May we all be doers of:

James 4:7-8 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Spiritual Shifts

The government of God will be progressive, and each progression will come with a shifting in the spiritual realm. The spiritual atmosphere of each shift will cause us to become unsettled in our spiritual space. Each shift will cause us to enter into unfamiliar territory.

The key to recognizing the shifts is to stay connected in the Spirit of God and allow Him to lead us into each shift with understanding.

John 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.

A New Covering

A new covering of God’s glory will be established over those who establish themselves under the rule of God.

Isaiah 4:5 then the LORD will create above every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and above her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day and the shining of a flaming fire by night. For over all the glory there will be a covering.

This covering of God’s glory will bring the manifestation of the power of His word. The written word will birth revelation of the inner workings of the kingdom of God. The spirit of truth will amplify the written word so that it helps us understand our personal destiny. The prophetic word will give direction and help us understand the times and seasons in which we live. The word of the Lord:

Matthew 4:4 But He answered and said, "It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’”

Kingdom Blessings

When we live under the rule of God in spirit and truth, then all of the written blessings become yes and amen.

2 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.

God’s promise for 2012 is found in the 12th verse of Psalm 5.

Psalm 5:12 For You, O LORD, will bless the righteous; With favor You will surround him as with a shield.

The blessings identified by the number 12 include provision, spiritual empowerment, healing, and miracles. Please allow the Holy Spirit to bring you into a position of faith so that you can receive the promises that you desire.

1. Provision and Empowerment

Mark 6:7-8 And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. And He called the twelve to Himself, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them power over unclean spirits.

Mark 6:41-43 And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fish, He looked up to heaven, blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and the two fish He divided among them all. So they all ate and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish.

2. Healing

Mark 5:
25 Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years,
26 and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse.
27 When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment.
28 For she said, "If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well."
29 Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the affliction.

3. Miracles

Mark 5:41-42 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, "Talitha, cumi," which is translated, "Little girl, I say to you, arise." Immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement.

Spiritual empowerment will increase in this year as the Lord comes to His people and His rule is established. Healings will take place more frequently than they have in the past. The miracle of spiritual resurrection will take place. Spiritual life will come forth. Prophetic words, dreams and visions will become the result of this spiritual revolution.

Discovery

As this season progresses and the spiritual shifts take place, more of living under God’s divine government will be understood. A greater anointing will be available because of the covering that will keep the glory of God upon us. The spiritual war will escalate, but we will have the victory. The blessings of God will be received, and we will bless His holy name.

A new frontier lies before us; it is waiting for us to discover the spiritual landscape. Let us rise up, full of faith for the journey, and let us go forth like the spiritual pathfinders of past generations. Let us be like those who have gone before us.

Hebrews 11:32-34 And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also of David and Samuel and the prophets: who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.

Our King will establish His kingdom among His people. My prayer is that all of God’s people will enter into this year with the expectation of discovery.

Matthew 6:10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.

Job 35-37: He Loves, Loves, Loves

2012-01-19T13:46:00.001-05:00

Job 36:15 “He delivers the afflicted in their affliction and opens their ears [to His voice] in adversity.”

Elihu hit was definitely hearing God when he proclaimed the above.

One of the things that I love about Abba is that He not only hears the afflicted, but then comforts them in their affliction by speaking lovingly and tenderly to them, whispering strength, direction and encouragement.

In the darkest, most desperate times, crying out to the Lord brings relief, because He loves to deliver; He loves to heal; He loves to make whole; He loves to wash clean: He loves, loves, loves to… because He loves, loves, loves us!!!

Empower me to through You to deliver those afflicted that cross my path. Let Your love flow through me; open their ears and cause them to realize their great worth. In the name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Job 32-35: Shine in the Fire

2012-01-18T21:32:00.000-05:00

It is clear in Job chapter 2, that God allowed, gave permission for satan to attack Job. Do I understand? No.

Yet, I do know that in my own life, my most difficult seasons have drawn me closer to my God. In thankfulness, I look back on the most difficult decade of my life knowing that during that horrible time, God opened by spiritual eyes through dreams, visions, whispers of His heart to mine, etc. In all honesty, I would have preferred an easier way, but warriors are not strengthened by ease.

Warriors undergo training…to stand on His firm foundation when everything around in being shaken, to run when the physical body begs to rest, to fight when emotions scream to shrink back and, to shine when the evil one whispers to hide.

In my case, God was sifting the flesh out of my soul. He was purifying my vessel in the fire. but that isn’t always the case as stated in 1 Peter 1:7

“So that [the genuineness] of your faith may be tested, [your faith] which is infinitely more precious than the perishable gold which is tested and purified by fire. [This proving of your faith is intended] to redound to [your] praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) is revealed.”

Thank You, Lord, for taking my vessel and sifting it, purifying it. My heart’s desire is to be like You in every way, so when people see me, they see You. Continue Your holy work in me. I don’t understand Your ways, but I do trust You!!! AMEN!!!

Job 29-31: Jesus is Our Justification

2012-01-17T10:24:00.001-05:00

Job spends a great deal of energy in these chapters justifying himself, listing all the righteous acts he has performed. Job reasons, “How could God be punishing me when I did x, y, and z.” (Beautiful Grace Version)

I’m sure Job did all the wonderful things he spoke of, but doing wonderful things does not automatically assure a person of blessings free from heartache. Being righteous doesn't mean rain for the crops or that no floods will destroy those crops. Righteousness doesn't insulate a person's health and well being against disease.

Job started walking a thin line when he started magnifying his worth by the good things he had done.

Job is worthy because he turned his heart towards the Father who designed him. He is loved by his Creator no matter how the circumstances surrounding him are interpreted by his accusing friends and community.

The Bible says in Isaiah 64:6a

“For we have all become like one who is unclean [ceremonially, like a leper], and all our righteousness (our best deeds of rightness and justice) is like filthy rags or a polluted garment;”

Jesus is our justification. When we attempt to justify ourselves, the robe of righteousness freely given to us by Jesus fades, and our filthy rags become clear.

Lord, their have been times during great spiritual pressure when I have tried to justify myself, protect myself from the Accuser of the Brethren though Your very own people; forgive me. Cause faith to rise up in me in order to trust in Your protection, Your righteousness covering me, Your Holy Spirit empowering me to accomplish righteous acts, not for righteousness sake, but because of Your great love flowing through me. In Jesus name, AMEN!!!

Job 24-28: Mercy Extended

2012-01-16T09:07:00.001-05:00

Job 28:23 “God understands the way [to Wisdom] and He knows the place of it [Wisdom is with God alone].”

This verse reminds me of the description of Wisdom in Proverbs. Notice that Wisdom is capitalized. I believe Wisdom is just another name for Jesus (God).

In the midst of Job’s rant about how the unrighteous succeed and don’t pay the price for their wickedness, he starts to turn his heart to the truth of the matter. The wicked do reap their reward in Wisdom’s time.

By the time Job 28:23 comes up, Job realizes that only God only (Wisdom) knows the reason why such apparent injustices occur. Our God is a God that is long suffering and merciful, who desires none to perish. Maybe the apparent ease of the unrighteous is just God’s mercy being extended to them in their sin.

Thank You, God, for your mercy to the unrighteous and to the righteous!

Job 21-23: The Opposite Spirit

2012-01-15T20:58:00.000-05:00

Job 22:30 “He will even deliver the one [for whom you intercede] who is not innocent; yes, he will be delivered through the cleanness of your hands.”

Even though Eliphaz (one of the accusing friends) was stating this verse, I do believe in this spiritual principle.

Something shifts in the spiritual realm when the one wronged chooses to respond in the opposite spirit to those who have treated him/her unjustly or in an abusive manner.

Something also happens in the spirit of the abuser, who is affected by the heavenly shift- revelation of his own sin, softening of his heart, repentance. Sometimes a conscious choice is made to disregard the stirrings of the spirit. That’s his/her own choice. We all have the free will to choose.

Most importantly, something happens in the heart of the wronged one when interceding for those who are not innocent. I personally believe and have experienced cleansing from bitterness towards people, because I interceded for them. Intercession is as much about the person we stand for as it is about us. When an honest, heart-to-heart connection is made with the Living God, then our hearts are purged of everything not like Him. That includes bitterness and unforgiveness.

Later, in Job 42:7 & 8, God specifically wants Job to intercede for his accusing friends, “that I [God] deal[s] not with you [them] after your [their] folly.”

Apparently, God wants us to do this.

Job 17-20: Compassion Not Accusation

2012-01-15T17:20:00.000-05:00

In my own life, the pain I have endured has caused more compassion to rise up in me for others.

Job 19:21

“Have pity on me! Have pity on me, O you my friends, for the hand of God has touched me!”

Poor Job begs for comfort from his friends and finds nothing but more accusation.

Lord, please don’t ever allow my heart to be so hardened that I am more worried about someone’s potential sin then for the emotional pain they are suffering. Comfort fist, then loving confrontation later in the name of Jesus, AMEN!

Job 14, 15 & 16: Without the Comforter

2012-01-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

"Holy Spirit Dove Fire"

Used according to the terms of

http://www.turnbacktogod.com/

Job 16:9 “Even now, behold, my Witness is in heaven, and He who vouches for me is on high.”

Job 16:21 “Oh, that there might be one who would plead for a man with God and that he would maintain his right with Him, as a son of man pleads with or for his neighbor!”

In verse 9, Job seems to have the revelation of Jesus’ role as an intermediary between God and man. (1 Timothy 2:5) Then by verse 21, his sorrows snatch that revelation from His heart. The cares of this world have choked out the seed that was sprouting.

1 Timothy 2:5 & 6 “For there [is only] one God, and [only] one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, Who gave Himself as a ransom for all [people, a fact that was] attested to at the right and proper time.”

Matthew 13:22 “As for what was sown among thorns, this is he who hears the Word, but the cares of the world and the pleasure and delight and glamour and deceitfulness of riches choke and suffocate the Word, and it yields no fruit.”

My heart goes out to Job; suffering and loss and hopelessness endured without the comfort of Holy Spirit and the whispers of Jesus, seem incomprehensible to me. Yet, Job holds on… God was pouring out His grace upon Job even though he could not perceive it.

I wonder how many times when life gets rough, our emotional state keeps us from realizing that God is right their with us?

Lord, help me to recognize the Jobs out in the world, and bring them news of the Comforter, who will never leave and certainly never forsake. In the name of Jesus. AMEN!!!

Job 10-13: Hold on Loosely

2012-01-12T13:30:00.001-05:00

Job and His Friends
Ilya Yefimovich-Repin 1869
Used with permission from

http://freechristimages.org

Job 3:15 “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him.”

Several years ago, I remember being in such an agitated emotional state that I said to God, “Though You slay me, I will trust You.” As I cried out to my Abba in the midst of my pain, He was already preparing to answer my cries for emotional relief in a beautiful way.

It was just before Christmas and my Husband, Strongman, had ordered the book, “One Thing” by Chuck and Pam Pierce for a gift. The next day after crying out Job 3:15 to my God, my book arrived. Sure enough, on page 21, Pam Pierce wrote that she also cried out to God with the very same verse. That was surely enough to get my attention. Of all verses in the entire Bible, Job 3:15 is mentioned the day after I cried it out to God. I knew reading that book would give me another piece of the puzzle to the situation in which I had found myself.

Our Father is willing to step into the midst of our difficult situations and give us peace, sometimes resolving the difficulty, sometimes not, but ultimately, God is looking at the eternal aspect of our temporal lives. He may need to kill some flesh in us for our eternal sake. The killing of flesh hurts! But the killing of flesh prepares me for heaven where flesh cannot dwell.

Situations arise that are designed for flesh killing, whether God Himself has designed the situation or satan, it doesn’t matter. What matters is what we learn from the experience and whom we run to for comfort. Battles teach us to war. I had not been a warrior before that season in my life. But now, I thank God that He allowed that difficult time, to strengthen me for even more difficult tasks which would lie ahead.

Judges 3:1 & 2

“NOW THESE are the nations which the Lord left to prove
Israel by them, that is, all in Israel who had not previously
experienced war in Canaan; It was only that the generations
of the Israelites might know and be taught war, at least those
who previously knew nothing of it.”

One thing that I am in the process of learning is to hold my life here on earth loosely. With every battle, difficulty or stress, I long even more for my true home. I am an alien here in this world (something I didn’t understand before the battles). My true home is in heaven with Jesus.

Job 6-9: Job's Friends, Really So Bad?

2012-01-11T16:06:00.000-05:00

Job and His False Comforters
Jean Fouquet c. 1460
Used by permission from
http://freechristimages.org

Job 8:7 “And though your beginning was small, yet your latter end would greatly increase.”

Job’s friend, Bildad, unknowingly prophesied Job’s end of prosperity as he chided him for hidden sin. As I think about Bildad, Eliphaz and Zophar, I wonder if they were really attempting to hurt Job.

*Could it be that they only spoke the revelation they had of Job's situation and of God's heart at that moment?

*Were they really trying to be cruel?

*Could they have just wanted to see their friend healed and restored and out of
desperation spoke out their own wisdom?

*How often has that happened in the church today?

*How many times have I spoken what I thought was right, but wasn’t God’s heart?

Job has the answer to these questions when he says,

“But how can mortal man be right before God?” (Job 9:2b)

Job didn’t know the answer to that question, but we do. Jesus is the way a mortal man can be right before God!

Thank You, Jesus, for making me right before Abba…for forgiving when I have misspoken, missed the mark, and plain old messed up! You are worthy of my praise. My adoration belongs to You. I will worship You for eternity! AMEN!!!

Job 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5: Fixate on Jesus

2012-01-09T08:28:00.003-05:00

Satan Before the Lord
Corrado Giaquinto 1750
Used with permission from
http://freechristimages.org/

Job 1:21 “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.”

I believe this verse, no matter the controversy surrounding it. Wouldn’t a good earthly dad take away privileges, if he knew his child would be harmed in some way by them? If we look at things from an eternal perspective, it’s easier to understand. Our Abba is the Perfect Father. Wouldn't He take away something that would affect our eternity with Him? Eternity with Him is more important than this temporal life. Just a thought.

Job 3:25 “For the thing which I greatly fear comes upon me, and that of which I am afraid befalls me.”

This verse jumped out at me because I have seen the truth of it played out. I knew a Jesus-loving woman who was diving deep into the spiritual things of the Lord. In the process of diving deep, she discovered satan’s realm of resistance against her. She became fixated on a “controlling spirit.” She was constantly looking for demons around every corner, in people, in situations. In short, she began to greatly fear a “controlling spirit.” I found out later that she had embraced a woman as a spiritual guide who had a controlling spirit. This woman’s fear caused the very object of her fear to come upon her.

This is tough stuff, but it’s truth. That’s why it is imperative that we fixate on Jesus. All the other stuff, including the demonic realm, will bow as we worship Jesus passionately and obey Him completely.

Lord, empower us to look at this life as temporal, and understand that fear only separates us from You. Empower me, Lord. I love You and want no thing between us. AMEN!

Genesis 8, 9, 10 & 11: Babel's Tower and Fear

2012-01-07T08:52:00.000-05:00

Image used with permission from http://freechristimages.org/biblestories/tower_of_babel.htm

Reading the account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11, made me think of ziggurats. I remember studying ziggurats with my sons in history class.

Ziggurats were constructed in ancient times by the Mesopotamians as dwelling places for their gods. Mesopotamia was the fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers (modern day Iraq). After doing a little research, I found out a few characteristics of these ancient people.

*Legalistic in their religious outlook, looking more to the letter of the law.

*Art and literature reflects a gloomy, pessimistic outlook on life.

*Euphrates and Tigris flooded unexpectedly and often killed those who were caught. These rivers came to be feared.

*Surrounded by hostile forces on all sides. People lived in constant fear of invasion.

*Lived from day to day always in fear of invasion and death.

*Selfish and practical.

from Early Mesopotamia

http://www.angelfire.com/nt/theology/04meso.html

Reading about the characteristics of the people who most probably built the Tower of Babel helps me to understand their desire to “…build us a city and a tower whose top reaches into the sky, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered over the whole earth.” (verse 4)

Fear of being “scattered over the whole earth” caused them to challenge the God of heaven.

Fear can induce us to do things that we normally would not consider, like challenge God. Fear seduces us into believing that we need to take control of our destiny, because God is not able. In effect, we challenge God’s ability to protect, guide, and empower us to fulfill that destiny.

Fear is a spirit. (2 Timothy 1:7), And if fear is a spirit, we cannot allow it to master us or we may find ourselves challenging God. Maybe, we will not build a tower, but in some way, we will set ourselves against the One True God.

Holy Spirit, search us. Root out all forms of fear. Cause us to rise up in faith, trusting You to complete in us the purpose for which we were created. In the great name of Jesus. AMEN!!!

Genesis 4, 5, 6, & 7: Stamp Out Those ANTs

2012-01-03T08:47:00.001-05:00

Image used with permission from http://freechristimages.org/biblestories/story_of_creation.htm

Genesis 4:3-8 (Amplified)

“And in the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground. And Abel brought of the firstborn of his flock and of the fat portions. And the Lord had respect and regard for Abel and for his offering, But for Cain and his offering He had no respect or regard. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and he looked sad and depressed. And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it. And Cain said to his brother, Let us go out to the field. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.”

This tragic account of the first murder in history reminds me of what CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy attempts to avoid by teaching patients to deal with their thoughts, prior to those thoughts affecting emotions and ultimately inducing a potentially harmful action (behavior).

Situation ——> Thoughts ——> Emotions —–> Behavior

I tell my patients to stamp out the ANT’s (automatic negative thoughts) before those ANT’s can sting their brains releasing the poison, which affects their emotions and ultimately their behavior.

In Cain’s case, the situation was that God did not accept his offering. The Bible doesn’t mention the thoughts which preceded Cain’s emotional state of anger, indignation, sadness and depression. I can only imagine the ANT’s crawling around in Cain’s brain. The process could have gone like this...

MY, offering not pleasing to God. Why not? I work really hard in the field!!! Doesn’t God see how hard I work? Oh, yeah, and baby brother, Abel. All he does is sit around all day on his duff watching the dumb old sheep. I work harder!!! I should be loved more than him. He makes me so angry!!! He’s the favorite of the family. He’s God favorite. Why, I should…

Cain failed to stamp out the ANT’s (the evil one’s lies) before they changed the course of his life, sending a shock-wave of curses throughout his progeny.

We all have a choice to stamp out those ANT’s before they can affect our destiny.

Holy Spirit, empower us to stamp out any ANT, which may attempt to poison our thoughts. For the glory of Jesus, AMEN!

Genesis 1, 2, and 3: Sanctification Visualized Through Creation

2012-01-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Image used with permission from http://freechristimages.org/biblestories/story_of_creation.htm

Two verses jumped out at me as I read.

Genesis 1:3 & 4

"And God saw that the light was good (suitable, pleasant) and He approved it; and God separated the light from the darkness. And God said, Let there be light; and there was light."

These verses remind me of the continuing work of Holy Spirit in us, identifying the darkness that attempts to creep into our vessels and separating it from the light, which is Jesus. This beautiful picture embedded in the act of creation embodies the sanctification of us all, our process towards holiness.

Genesis 2:17

“But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and blessing and calamity you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

This is a verse which has stumped me for years. If Adam and Eve did not have the knowledge to determine good vs. evil prior to eating from the tree, then how did Eve know it was evil to disobey God’s command not to eat of it?

Robert Ricciardelli: 25 Kingdom Initiatives for 2012

2011-12-31T07:07:00.000-05:00

Robert Ricciardelli: 25 Kingdom Initiatives for 2012 as published by the Elijah List.

As we move into the new year, I want to share 25 key Kingdom initiatives that I feel are significant for every Believer. I am hopeful that these will confirm some things the Lord has already been showing you, as well as encourage you to pray into these initiatives for your own lives and for the Body of Christ. I pray that each of us would ask the Father to reveal to us our part in the Body, as we seek Him for guidance for His will to be done through us. May the Lord Kingdomize your life in amazing ways in 2012 to further expand His Kingdom and His glory upon the earth.

1. Give to Caesar (government) what is Caesar's, and give to God what is His, which is our very lives. Jesus was consumed with His Father's Kingdom being brought to the earth. We must focus on Christ and His Kingdom rather than being overly concerned with political processes. Pray for governmental change, but let's look to God and not government to provide for us.

2. God is raising up new leaders who will stand for righteousness in the realms of government. This generation of Daniels and Josephs will continue to take their place in leading nations with Father's influence, presence, and wisdom in governmental offices.

3. Father continues to shake all foundations that are not built upon the Rock of Himself. Stand out with His light in the midst of the shaking all around us.

4. Utilize what we do have and be busy doing what we must do. Surrender all paralyzing fear and worrying about what we don't have or cannot do.

5. Understand and activate true repentance in every area of our lives, truly turning away from sin instead of just feeling sorry for our patterns of sin.

6. Swiftly move to forgiveness for every wrong committed against us. Allow His presence to eradicate bitterness from the depths of our souls. Forgive ourselves and move on past the shame simply because Jesus has forgiven us, and His work in forgiveness is complete and has made us whole.

7. We are not victims, for in Christ we are victorious. Choose to not ever live as a victim, because the revelation of Christ and His grace suffices for us daily. Live as a victor and flee from the victim mindset.
8. Let's accept and believe with all of our heart, soul, and mind that Jesus loves us, accepts us, and is for us in every moment of every day.

9. Remain overwhelmed by the love and acceptance of God where we are presently. We are children that are continuing to grow but we are also complete in Him NOW!

10. Acknowledge that our lives follow the way of the Cross, knowing persecution and trials will come. Choose to die more to self, knowing that it is the narrow way He has asked us to follow. As we die to self more, Christ lives through us and our joy is made complete in Him.

11. Enter the rest in God, in the rest of who we are in Christ. Rest from running around doing religious activities that He never called us to do. As we enter in His rest, trusting and relying on Him, we continue to be more than we can ever do!

12. Confident and humble leaders need to continue to train and release every member of their organizations into the ministry that the Lord has called them to. This training and releasing goes beyond the four walls of organized church.

13. Citywide transformation will expand as each individual realizes his or her purpose and calling, and is released to fulfill it in everyday life.

14. God's servant leaders will continue to be recognized and promoted because they seek to serve others with no concern of ever having to be served. Corporate vision never controls or usurps God's purpose for each person.

15. The Lord owns everything we have and asks us to steward everything He has given us. Ask Him how much to give and to where, always willing to give 100% if He were to ask that of us.

16. Kingdomized people will continue to bring godly influence and leadership to all the gates of the city. Kings and priests of God will lead by serving His wisdom and authority in the spheres of government, business, health care, media, law, church, and the educational jurisdictions of our cities.

17. Accept others and the blessing that they are, rather than being offended by them in their differences. Live with unoffendable hearts hidden in Christ. We do not need to see eye-to-eye in order to walk hand-in-hand.

18. Choose to see the good in people, pray for them, and love them regardless of if they change and conform to our ways. Believe for the best in others.

19. Every Believer must understand their journey and the continual process they walk in. Humbly come alongside others who may not be as far along in their journey or process.

20. Convergence can come as we truly love and become excited about the uniqueness of each other's differences, and value each expression of God's people.

21. Spiritual Fathers will have a heart of giving to their spiritual sons that surpass any thoughts of what they might receive in return through their relationship.

22. Seek to trash every idol in our life to be free in serving effectively in the army of our Lord. The greatest idol that we battle is the idol called "self." Continue to lay down self and become selfless in our pursuit of Christ and His Kingdom.

23. See the Kingdom of God beyond race, gender, or age, and seek to unite through all the diversity and expressions of His glorious Kingdom. In the Kingdom male, female, Greek, and Jew can work together in the fullness and likeness of Christ.

24. Prophetic accountability in the Body of Christ will increase as prophetic people move beyond subjectivity. As a Body, we will collectively hear the "sound" of God through the multiplicity of voices.

25. The earth will continue to be filled with the glory of the Lord as more of His people move from religion to relationship while continuing to become one with God and one with each other. We will love as He loves, speak as He speaks, and do what He does, and we will be changing the world together, "AS ONE."

Robert Ricciardelli
Converging Zone Network & Visionary Advancement Strategies

Read the Bible With Me

2011-12-17T13:50:00.000-05:00

Starting January 1, 2012, I will be posting my thoughts as I chronologically read through the Bible. Join me and offer your own thoughts. I am not a theologian, but I do love Jesus. If you want to join me, I'd love it!!!

Thank you to Classic Mama for giving me a head's start on this endeavor.

With Much Love,
Beautiful Grace

Praise Report

2011-12-10T04:39:00.001-05:00

Dear Praying Friends and Family,

Home and doing great. Everything went well; I have not had pain and only slight

nausea upon waking from anesthesia!

No nausea since then. Ready for bed, yes! I'm going to attempt sleeping flat in

bed tonight. PTL!!!!

I love and appreciate all of you!!!

With Much Love...

Beautiful Grace

Health Update: A Year of Grace and Favor

2011-12-06T10:20:00.001-05:00

My Dear Praying Friends and Family,

I've seen God's love in words and deeds through you this year. I am eternally grateful. Thank you!

The most recent example of selfless love that I experienced was just this past Friday. I had heard a friend was now living in an extended care facility, and I wanted to personally deliver her birthday card. As my friend lay in bed struggling for breath, she recognized me. Immediately, she said through labored breathing, "Bellann, it's you. How are you? I have really been praying for you. You've been through so much."

Friends, that selfless heart is the heart of Jesus manifested. What an example for us to emulate! My friend could have turned her eyes inward, wallowing in self pity for her own physical condition, but instead, she chooses to continue to think of others first! My intent was to minister to her on Friday, but in truth, she was the one who ministered to me. How beautiful Jesus is through His people!!!

The grace and favor that God has poured out on me far outweighs the difficulties that I have experienced this year. If only words could express the thankfulness that I have for all the blessings I have received this year! God has used this blatant attack of the evil one to propel me past a few sticking points in my soul. My Abba always brings good out of what the evil one has meant for destruction!!!

The favor of God places a bright spotlight of glory on us. When that happens, people notice. It's during those times that the doors are wide open to speak about the love of Jesus. I am thankful for the many opportunities I have had this year to share what Jesus has done for me! I have loved to see tear-shining eyes in people as they hear how real and active and loving Jesus has been in my life. I think hope is being stirred in them. Only God truly knows what speaking of my experience will do for them.

This Friday, I am scheduled for my fourth and final surgery for this year. The left expander will be removed and replaced with a permanent silicon prosthesis, and I would appreciate any prayers you may offer on my behalf.

Prayer Points:

No infection
No medication or anesthesia reactions
That I would have more opportunities to speak about my beloved Jesus
That Strongman would not feel overwhelmed as he ministers once again to me during my recovery.
That Consecrated and Fire would be propelled into the destinies that God has for them.
Financial provision
More grace of God in order to minister to others who are hurting

Thank you all so very much for your kindness, love, and prayers. If only I could give each of you a huge hug for the love I feel for you! May God pour out His grace upon you and give you the peace and passion and power to walk out your destinies in Him!!!

With Much Love Always...

Beautiful Grace

Dirty Dorito

2011-11-26T16:39:00.001-05:00

My son entered into "Crash the Superbowl" competition sponsored by Doritos. Please follow the link to see his "Dirty Dorito" commercial. If his entry is chosen, we then will have the opportunity to vote for it on 1/4/2011. Thanks for your support!

You must enter the gallery and then search for "Dirty Dorito" in the search bar and the bottom left of the page.

http://www.crashthesuperbowl.com/#/gallery/?video=16933