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Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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loving the Lord
Invisible Mother: theunfetteredpreacher
Great truth written by Nicole Johnson
🔹Invisible Mother🔹
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way
one of the kids will walk into the room while I’m on the phone and ask to be
taken to the store. Inside I’m thinking, ‘Can’t you see I’m on the phone?’
Obviously not; no one can see if I’m on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping
the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see
me at all. I’m invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of
hands, nothing more! Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this??
Some days I’m not a pair of hands; I’m not even a human being. I’m a clock
to ask, ‘What time is it?’ I’m a satellite guide to answer, ‘What number is
the Disney Channel?’ I’m a car to order, ‘Right around 5:30, please.’
Some days I’m a crystal ball; ‘Where’s my other sock?, Where’s my phone?,
What’s for dinner?’
I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes
that studied history, music and literature -but now, they had disappeared
into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She’s going, she’s
going, she’s gone!
One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a
friend from England . She had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she
was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there,
looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to
compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when she
turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, ‘I brought you
this.’ It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn’t exactly
sure why she’d given it to me until I read her inscription: ‘With admiration
for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.’
In the days ahead I would read – no, devour – the book. And I would discover
what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could
pattern my work:
1) No one can say who built the great cathedrals – we have no record
of their names.
2) These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never
see finished.
3) They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.
4) The passion of their building was fuelled by their faith that the
eyes of God saw everything.
A story of legend in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the
cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird
on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man,
‘Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that
will be covered by
the roof. No one will ever see it’
And the workman replied, ‘Because God sees.’
I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost
as if I heard God whispering to me, ‘I see you. I see the sacrifices you
make every day, even when no one around you does.
No act of kindness you’ve done, no sequin you’ve sewn on, no cupcake you’ve
baked, no Cub Scout meeting, no last minute errand is too small for me to
notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can’t see
right now what it will become.
I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of
the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work
on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went
so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime
because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.
When I really think about it, I don’t want my son to tell the friend he’s
bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, ‘My Mom gets up at 4 in the
morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for 3
hours and presses all the linens for the table.’ That would mean I’d built a
monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there
is anything more to say to his friend, he’d say, ‘You’re gonna love it
there…’
As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we’re
doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel,
not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the
world by the sacrifices of invisible mothers.
❤️
➖Original author: Nicole Johnson
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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God looked down: theunfetteredpreacher
Psalm 53: 2.
God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that did seek God.
Are there any that understand, that DO SEEK GOD?
As I look at the Church on Sundays and the Bible Studies on Wednesdays, then look outside the Church, any day, I have to Ask.
The answer is a sad few, seek God. Why is this true? Our Christian Witness is lacking. What, do we lack, you might ask? The Power of God.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (John 1:12)
Those of us who Know the Lord, Know the Power, of Grace and Forgiveness. Those who know not the Lord, can not understand it, it is Spiritually Discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14) It is all Foolishness, Needless and Senseless, to the Unsaved.
When the Lord wanted to cause people to recognize His Power, He performed Signs, Wonders, and Miracles. That people would See, Consider, Understand and Believe, He IS GOD. (Isaiah 41:20)
Folks sat up and took notice. Many only followed for the perks, but many followed because their eyes and hearts were opened. Jesus understood and did not commit to those whose hearts were not His. (John2:24)
Saints, we should be seeing the Power of God, not just for Salvation, but to change lives, by comforting the brokenhearted, healing the sick, meeting the needs of people. NOT JUST PHYSICALLY, BUT SPIRITUALLY.
Jesus said only Believe, all things are possible to them that Believe. (Mark 9:23)
Are there any that Understand, that Seek God?
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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A sign of our Times: theunfetteredpreacher
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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Anoint my head with oil: Scott Leak shared by Christine Gibbs
I have to admit, I always wondered what this part of Psalm 23 meant. I thought “He anoints my head with oil” was figurative language for God keeping the Psalmist healthy. I never knew this parallel.
Anoint my head with oil
“Sheep can get their head caught in briers and die trying to get untangled. There are horrid little flies that like to torment sheep by laying eggs in their nostrils which turn into worms and drive the sheep to beat their head against a rock, sometimes to death. Their ears and eyes are also susceptible to tormenting insects. So the shepherd anoints their whole head with oil. Then there is peace. That oil forms a barrier of protection against the evil that tries to destroy the sheep. Do you have times of mental torment? Do the worrisome thoughts invade your mind over and over? Do you beat your head against a wall trying to stop them? Have you ever asked God to anoint your head with oil? He has an endless supply! His oil protects and makes it possible for you to fix your heart, mind, and eyes on Him today and always! There is peace in the valley! May our good good Father anoint your head with oil today so that your cup overflows with blessings! God is good and He is faithful!!”
#GoodFriday
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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A sign of the times: theunfetteredpreacher
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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The Call, Denied: theunfetteredpreacher
The Call Denied:
I have been playing piano at this little UMC, for many years. I have Preached a few times, and have taught a mid-week Bible Study for years.
I recently found out I could no longer preach because I was Licenced and Ordained in a Non-Denominational Church, many years ago. (Apparently, it’s ok, to teach Bible Study).
My opinion is, I joined the Church, the day I received the Lord Jesus as Lord and Savior. I call myself theunfetteredpreacher because my Doctrine comes directly from the Word, not man’s opinion of the Words meaning.
I do not pretend to know all, but I am perfectly able to understand the basics.
Believe and Confess Jesus as Lord. He was born a man-child, (by a Virgin), died was buried and resurrected on the third day, ascended to heaven and made believers, Blameless in the Beloved.
The Rituals, Ceremonies, Rules, and Regulations of our Churches, are all man-made, man enforced and the Lord is dismissed out of hand.
I do not know that the Lord is truly welcomed into our Services.
Yes, I understand the Pastor is responsible for the Safty of the Flock. The Church has every right to deny access to the Pulpit, to whomever it pleases. So Be It.
The Pastor told of Wesley being an Anglican all his life but was denied the Pulpit, in that Church. So he hit the road, and people followed.
My dilemma is, I look behind me and see no one following. All I can do is accept my lot and pray for guidance and Wisdom.
I ask for your prayers also.
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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Paul’s Prayer in Ephesians: theunfetteredpreacher
The Prayer in Ephesians 1, is a prayer for mature Christians. It is about Spiritual Growth, not Temporal Troubles.
He still gives thanks for believers, still prays without ceasing for them, but a totally different prayer. He is no longer centered on the relationships between people, he is now encouraging a deeper relationship with Jesus.
At this point, it is all about Spiritual awareness. He is pointing the way to a stronger, more Powerful Church. A people worthy of the Name, ‘Christian.’ He gave us more than a Gospel of Words, He gave us the Kingdom of God. The Righteousness Peace and Joy, of the Holy Spirit.
“Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.“
Romans 15:19
Paul, knew he needed the Power of the Spirit of God, the Signs and Wonders following, to FULLY PREACH THE GOSPEL.
It saddens me, that today so many have given up on realizing the Power of God, in their ministry. That Power is available today. Jesus said, ‘only believe’. Why can we not grasp this simple concept?
The people who have walked in that Power, from the time of Jesus on, have had a special bond with the Lord. Like John the Beloved they have learned to lean on the breast of Jesus. To put on His Yoke and walk with Him.
The Fulness of Christ resides within us. We need to forget our wants, desires, plans and ambitions, and let the Holy Spirit lead us in His path. Am I supposed to be here in NC, playing the piano?
To tell you the truth, I have no idea, but I will be here with my hand on the plow until I receive a different Word from the Lord. I trust He can find and direct me when He decides I am ready for His Work.
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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Ephesians 1: 15-23
Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,
16. Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
17. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
18. The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
19. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
20. Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
21. Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
22. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,
23. Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Jesus is Restoring the Supernatural Church: Nelson Hopkins
For Jesus to restore the Supernatural Church, the Church must learn receive the supernatural promises written in God’s word. Much debate today, mostly within church circles, for the world could care less, denies the power of God’s word.
Many today become “saved” and hold on and hope for the best in this life and to land on heaven’s shores in the next. All the while ignorant or ignoring the words of Jesus that He came not only to seek and to save the lost but also that we could have life more abundantly.
The pauper mentality will not get it done. I am not just talking about material blessing which is a part of the inheritance of believers but especially the lack of power to show forth infallible proofs of His resurrection. The Lord working with us. Confirming His word.
It is not for debate but for display of the mighty works of Almighty God who is watching over His word to perform it.
He is looking for people that will proclaim it for they emphatically believe it will transform the lives of those who will receive it.
The Gospel is the POWER OF GOD unto salvation! Spirit, soul and body!
Believe it or not!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/343596273156096/permalink/372838763565180/
Pauls Prayers for the Church: theunfetteredpreacher
I have always thought we should be praying for our Church the way Paul Prays in his letters. (Romans 1:7-13; 1 Corinthians 1:3-13)
For my Bible Study, I’ve taken a closer look at Pauls Prayers. The Word always surprises me, how when you study, it reveals the voice of the Lord.
In the letters to both the Roman and Corinthian Churches, he prays very similar prayers.
First, he speaks to all the believers in those churches, and to all the Saints of that time and to us today.
He Thanks God for the Grace, (Salvation), and Peace, that the Lord has bestowed upon us.
That our Faith would be evident to all, that we would be empowered in all utterance and knowledge, that Christ within us, is our Testimony.
He prays always, (without ceasing), he desires that we would receive a ‘Spiritual Gift,’ that we might be established, ready for the Return of Christ Jesus.
There are several lists of Spiritual Gifts.
Ephesians 4:11-12;
Apostles, Prophets Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers; for our perfection, for the work of His Ministry through us, to build the body of Christ.
Romans 12:6-9;
Prophesy, Ministry, Teaching, Exhortation, Giving, Ruling.
The Gifts differ for each of us depending on the Grace given by the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:8-11;
A Word of Wisdom, A Word of Knowledge, Faith, Gifts of Healing, Working of Miracles, Prophecy, Discerning of Spirits, Divers Tongues, Interpretation of Tongues.
The Holy Spirit gives every man several Gifts, according to their ability.
Do you know the Gifts you have? We can request the Gifts needed at our time of need.
A Word of Wisdom or of Knowledge is Wisdom and Knowledge for a specific Situation. It is not the Wisdom and Knowledge he tells us to Pray for in sharing His Word, for building His kingdom, for our daily life.
Paul tells us to desire the best Gifts. (The Gift needed NOW).
We willingly believe we can have most of the Gifts, yet many refuse to ask for the one Talent given to every man who has a voice. The ability to pray the perfect will of God, by praying in the Spirit.
The prayer language of Tongues is not the Gift of Tongues that needs Interpretation. That is the Public speaking of Tongues, not the private Prayer Language.
If you have a question of the difference please ask, the Holy Spirit to make it clear. If you would like the Scriptures to Study, I will send them to you.
The Holy Spirit gives His Gifts, to build the Lord’s Church. When we fail to appropriate them, Church Growth is effected.
Falling Membership, lack of Discipleship, a Powerless, ineffective Witness of Christ. Pray for the Revelation of His will.
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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Is the Church dying? theunfetteredpreacher
Is the Church dying? It seems to be so. Why? Too many of them are closed (isolated), systems.
The Baptists only listen to and learn from other Baptists. Methodists with Methodists, etc…
We stay within our Denominations and Doctrines.
Or worse, the only teaching our Church receives is from it’s Pastor. (No guest speakers, teachers, other voices).
This is somewhat understandable.
Our Pastors are mandated, by God to lead and grow the flock. It is an awesome responsibility. They must guard against error.
Unfortunately, that can squelch growth in the knowledge of, and the working of, the Spirit.
A healthy Church is one that is growing in Wisdom and Knowledge, always moving closer to Godly principles, desires and Gods power.
(Sorry, Jesus healed all that were afflicted, multitudes flocked to Him, is He present in your services? Are people yearning to learn? Is the Holy Spirit changing lives?)
If your Church isn’t growing, the people are not receiving the food, needed for growth.
Is your church an isolated system?
“The internal energy of an isolated system stays constant. The entropy of an isolated system tends to increase.”. (Someone smarter than me, said this).
If we don’t allow new Biblical revelation to be explored if all we can share is: “This is what I’ve been taught, and by God, that’s all there is. This is all we need.”
We are starving ourselves, and our flocks, we are not allowing the Holy Spirit freedom to lead.
Sadly, the church is not receiving the meat of the word. We must always seek more of God and expect His Holy Spirit to lead us to all truth.
Luther, the Wesley’s, Billy Graham, like the Pope, did not and do not have all spiritual knowledge.
We all see through a glass darkly, only the Holy Spirit can open our eyes to the truth and then, only when we allow the light of truth into our lives.
We need to constantly challenge our faith, grow in our faith, allow other points of view, into our Churches, ask the hard questions of our Pastors, teachers, always comparing what we hear, to the Word, to see if it is true.
It is our responsibility to study to show ourselves approved unto God, rightly dividing the Word of truth.
Saints, a closed system is a stagnant system. It is impossible to grow and flourish. We as individuals, need to go to Church to grow, our Churches need to be open to Biblical Revelation for growth.
Our Church needs to be an open system, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us to all truth.
Lord, open the eyes of our hearts. Amen
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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Restoring the Supernatural Church: Nelson Hopkins: theunfetteredpreacher
https://m.facebook.com/groups/343596273156096?view=permalink&id=353143132201410
Jesus is restoring the Supernatural Church is stated, not because He gave and then took back. Men have taught and continue teaching doctrines of carnal understanding to the neglect of spiritual truth as it relates to the Kingdom of God. In doing so they have limited the power of God and His intended change for our world. Jesus taught us to pray, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.” This Kingdom of God is “righteousness, peace and joy, in the Holy Spirit and is now within each and every born-again believer of the Gospel of Christ as the POWER of God.
This power of God is faith in God. Jesus says in verse 22 to have faith in God is to speak in such a way that your life and circumstances are changed by what you speak out of your mouth in faith,not doubting in your heart.
Abraham was not weak in faith but strong in faith, “being fully persuaded that what God had promised to/about him, God would do.”
One of the Laws of the Spirit in the Kingdom of God is taught in this passage from Mark. “Believe. Speak UNTO what you believe without doubting and you SHALL RECEIVE what you speak.” From your heart (inner man) out your mouth. UNTO. Romans 10:10 “For with the heart man believes and with his mouth confession is made UNTO salvation. You call God’s plan of salvation INTO your life by speaking UNTO salvation. Not of works but of words. Words of faith in God. Now, ALL things are new and all things are of God.
You believe in your heart and you confess with your mouth all theses new things of God for your life. No more lack, fear, sickness, defeat, stress, strife, etc. All the new things of God, abundance, newness of life, peace, joy, favor, health, etc. are yours NOW! (Ephesians 1:3) You have LIFE in His Spirit, now LIVE in His Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) “THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.” (Romans 1:17)
Jesus is restoring the Supernatural Church to anyone who will receive the revelation knowledge (truth) the Holy Spirit teaches in spite of what may be true at the moment. Bible (God’s) Truth changes everything. So “walk by faith and not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Be supernaturally natural!
Paul and prayer: In Romans: theunfetteredpreacher
Paul was the Master of the run-on sentence. I have attempted to ferret out the relevant prayers in some of his teachings. (lol).
He was not only teaching and speaking to the Church of his time but also to us. No matter our Denomination, the work of building the body of the Lord continues.
From where I stand, we need to re-acquaint ourselves with how to advance the cause.
Romans 7:7-13
Thanksgiving.
For our fellow workers in Christ, they are spreading the Faith, even if in a different name brand Church, than ours.
If they are sharing Christ, they are with us. We need to pray for those we know and intercede for all others around the world.
Prayer without ceasing.
Is this even possible? Yes, it is an attitude, a lifestyle, living a life where our Faith and Love of Christ is on display. (Abram, praying for Sodom, Christ in the Garden).
In this case, Paul had been praying to visit these Churches, that he would prosper in his work of building up, the Church. (People)
He wished to Impart a Spiritual Gift, that would establish them in Christ. Wisdom, Faith, Prophecy, Giving? I do not know which or how many of the Gifts of the Ministry or Spirit they had need of.
He desired that he see and recognize they had the information to stay the course. That the Fruit of the Spirit and thereby the Church would grow.
Romans 16:24-27
Praise.
He ends his teaching by giving God the Glory. For the Power to Establish them in the Faith, the Power to Preach, to Reveal the Mystery of Faith, he gives the Glory to Christ. Amen
We must relearn to pray, Effectual, Fervent Prayers. For the completion of Gods will in our lives and Church.
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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Romans 1:7-13
“To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; Making a request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.”
Romans 16:24-27
“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen.”
WHY? Written by oneta hayes: theunfetteredpreacher
A great post by a wise and wonderful child of the King, enjoy.
How we pray, matters: theunfetteredpreacher
GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!!
Do we realize the effect our prayers can have on others? In 1 Kings 3:3-10, we find Solomons most famous prayer.
‘Solomon loved the Lord and walked in His ways, as did his Father, David.’ At the time there was no house of the Lord so he sacrificed, in the high places.
The Lord appeared to him in a dream, and God said, what shall I give thee?
My thoughts start here. Do I love the Lord, as much as David and Solomon? (I would like to believe so, but I don’t, really.) How can I tell? My prayers.
There was another King of the Jews, Hezekiah, His prayer had a very different starting point. (Isaiah 38:1-2)
Hezekiah Was sick unto death, Isaiah the prophet came to him, told him to put his house in order, for he was going to die. ‘Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed.’
How often do I turn my face to the wall and pray? When trouble surrounds me, and I see no way out. Oh, there are plenty of times I pray, when things are well, but what do I pray?
Solomon loved the Lord and Loved the Lord’s people. His prayers were to know how to righteously rule and judge them. The Lord simply told him to continue to walk in His ways.
Saints, that is what Jesus told us. ‘This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.‘ (John 15:12) We also hear this from Paul, Peter, and John the beloved. (Romans 13:8, 1 Peter 1:22, 1 John 3:11)
I am concerned that our prayers are not how to rightly walk and serve the Lord, but are closer to Hezekiah’s prayer.
‘And said, Remember now, O LORD, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.’ (Isaiah 38:3)
Please do not misunderstand, we often must remind the Lord of his promises. (Exodus 32:9-14) Yet we should not have to remind Him of what we have done. That Isaiah had to come to him, instead of the Lord, should speak volumes.
Yes, he was a good King, he prayed an ‘Effectual fervent prayer,’ (James 5:15) His problem as is mine, ‘Me, Myself and I.’
Solomon and Paul showed us how to pray for others, not for their Temporal needs, but their Spiritual Reality. What else is our purpose here on earth? The Lord clothes the flowers and feeds the birds. How much more does He love and care for us?
Both Solomon and Hezekiah’s, prayers were answered, The people did well even after Solomon fell into sin. But Israel had a King from the lineage of David till they fell away.
The people did well till Hezekiah died. Hezekiah was ‘pleased there would be peace until his death.’ He never considered their future in Slavery. (Isaiah 39:5-8)
How well do our prayers stand against theirs?
Mine are so often about Me and what I could be doing for the Lord if He would just understand my magnificence. (LOL)
He obviously does know me and limits the damage I can cause. Is that what constrains you?
It hinders my prayers because they are inward, about me, we must concentrate on the needs of others, and the Majesty of God.
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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They limited the Holy One: theunfetteredpreacher.com
Psalm 78: 41.
“Yes, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel.”
When Jesus visited His hometown, (Mark 6), the people were astonished by His power, the Wisdom of His speech, His healings, comfort, grace, and love that are the constant of His presence.
Jesus, Himself, marveled, that He could do no mighty works, He was only able to heal a few sick.
Why? Simply because of unbelief.
Like the Hebrews during and after the Exodus. They had heard of and witnessed, the mighty miracles that delivered them from captivity, yet they questioned His will, ways and Power.
They were fed Angel food from heaven but wanted meat. The Lord honored their request, but some died and He sent leanness to the souls of others.
Psalm 78:38-41
“But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yes, many a time he turned his anger away and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again. How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert! Yes, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel.”
I believe that we suffer the same unbelief in our churches today. We have heard of His mighty work but cannot seem to believe they are for us, today.
I believe we provoke the Lord today. He refuses our church worship as being all lip service and little heart. All formality and rituals, prayers and empty praise.
When He recognized this in His people in the desert, He rejected the Tabernacle of Shiloh, Joseph and Ephraim.
Psalm 78: 68.
“But chose the tribe of Judah, the mount Zion which he loved.”
The Lord chose the tribe of Judah, to lead them in Worship. And Praise. Judah means Praise. Do our churches honestly know how to Praise?
Many old hymns are full of meaning and tell of the old Saints struggles and victories. They are wonderful testimony, we love to sing them, but they are not, Praise.
We need to turn our Worship to the Promises of God, the Promises in the Psalms, and other books of the Bible. Sing His Words and Promises back to Him.
When the Lord was ready to destroy the people and start again with Moses, Moses reminded the Lord of His Word, of His Promises.
It will help us to believe and receive as we sing, memorize and meditate on His Word. It is His Word He watches over to perform, not ours.
Stop turning back to our old ways, we limit the Holy One. Learn to sing and pray His Word. Then we will begin to believe, like Abram, the impossible, and become the Righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:11)
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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An Injustice Has Occured: theunfetteredpreacher.com
An injustice has occurred. I thanked a man for helping me with my Lawn Art and neglected to thank a man who did so much more.
My Brother in law, Roger, has been helping me on many projects since he arrived here from Minnesota. From helping me cut and attach the piano half on the left, to coming with me on Tunings, Bible Studies, and Men’s meetings.
He has been a very present, and pleasant help, in times of need. He and Corrine are both, blessings in our lives. My sweet Bette has wonderful sisters and brothers in law.
Blessings:
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
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See that thou do all those wonders: theunfetteredpreacher
Psalm 145:4-6
“One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness.”
In both the Old and New Testament, we find God, doing things beyond our human abilities, to Prove that He is God. After showing Moses the wonders of His power, (the staff turned to a snake and back, and also the leprous hand).
The Lord, tells Moses to, “See that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.” (Exodus 4:21)
In the New Testament, we find; “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” (Acts 10:38)
At one point in the Temple, the Word tells us ‘the Power of God was present to heal.’ (Luke 5:17)
So why are we not seeing the Power of God in our Churches today? Why do so many of our prayers, seem to hit the ceiling and return unanswered?
Are we praying Gods Word and are we willing, to do Gods will? What is the measure of our Faith? Jesus said many times: ‘Only Believe’ (Mark 5:36; Luke 8:20; John 3:16-18; Phillippians 1:29) Jesus also asked; ‘Where is your Faith?’ (Luke 8:25)
Several Scriptures link the Holy Spirit and Power. (Luke 1:35; Acts 1:8,10:38; Romans 15:13; 1 Thessalonians 1:5)
So once again why are we not experiencing Gods Miracles, Signs and Wonders, in our Churches and daily life?
The Lord is no respecter of people, (Acts 10:34-35; Romans 2:1-12; Colossians 3:24-25; James 2:1 respect one over another, by dress, finances, etcetera).
This just points out, that it is up to us to draw close to God, to Trust and Walk with Him, in obedience and love. James sums it up this way: (2:17-26)
‘Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.‘
James 4:1-10
‘From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.’
Do we really believe? Should we ask move than once? Is that Faith? Are we asking for something within His will? Do we do the Work of Faith? Do we humble ourselves?
I know in my life, Pride often lifts it’s ugly head. I often tell myself, I could do that better, faster, harder, etcetera. Why, Oh why won’t God do things my way?
I thank the Lord that In His Time, He will have formed me into His image, and I will do that which will please Him. How about you? Can you think of anything that would hinder the Lord granting your request?
Is there unrepented sin, in your life? Have you grown in your Faith? Do you Trust He has your best interests at heart?
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. My desire is a more intimate one.
bill theunfetteredpreacher cote
That ye shall know: theunfetteredpreacher.com
That we should know; What? The Lord our God wants us to realize; … That He Is God.
In Isaiah, we learn that God planted trees, and caused water to flow in the midst of the desert so that His people ‘may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the LORD hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it.’ (Isaiah 41:20)
Israel was a desert, it became a garden for the Hebrews. Then became a garden again in 1948.
We are precious to Him. We are His People. When trouble comes, He will be with us, He will be our Savior. He has created us, for His Glory and Pleasure. He has called us to be Witnesses.
‘Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me, there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.’ (Isaiah 43:10)
We see the Lord performing Miracles throughout the Bible, for one reason only. THAT WE WOULD KNOW, THAT HE IS GOD.
The Lord brought the Hebrew people out of slavery in Egypt, using Miracles, Signs, and Wonders so that, ‘ye shall know that I am the LORD your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.’ (Exodus 6:4) ‘That thou mayest know that there is none like unto the LORD our God.’ (Exodus 8:10)
During the journey to the Promised Land, He gave them food, and drink, their clothes and sandals had not worn out yet they complained;
‘And Moses spake unto Aaron, Say unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, Come near before the LORD: for he hath heard your murmurings.
And it came to pass, as Aaron spake unto the whole congregation of the children of Israel, that they looked toward the wilderness, and, behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in the cloud.
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel: speak unto them, saying, At even ye shall eat flesh, and in the morning ye shall be filled with bread, and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God.’ (Exodus 16:9-12)
God gives miracles to man, so we would see, know, understand and believe, HE IS GOOD.
Joshua, leading the people into the promised land, came to the river Jorden. So Joshua spoke to the people. ‘Come hither, and hear the words of the LORD your God.
And Joshua said, Hereby ye shall know that the living God is among you and that he will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the Perizzites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites.
Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth passeth over before you into Jordan.’ (Joshua 3:9-11)
There are more examples, here are their addresses.
In 1 Kings 18: 36-38, We find Elijah calling down the fire from heaven to burn up his offering to, ‘let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel.’
Isaiah 45:3. ‘And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel.’
Joel 2: 27 ‘And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel ad that I am the LORD your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed.’
Zechariah 4:9 ‘thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.’
It continued into the life of Jesus, miracles in the New Testament.
Matthew 9:6 ‘But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.’
John 10: 37. ‘If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. 38. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.’
John 14:31 ‘But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.’
John 14: 28-29 ‘Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it comes to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.’
John 17:21-23 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: ‘that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.’
We are expected to work in signs, wonders and miracles. We should be seeking God for His anointing to see souls saved and the sick healed. (John 14:12-14)
The Holy Spirit should be evident in our lives by His Power displayed. We should be working in at least one of the Gifts of the Spirit, the Hebrews needed straw to make strong bricks, the Gifts are the straw we need to build a strong church.
That we do not see them, is not because the Lord isn’t working them any longer, but we are not walking as close to Him as we should. Pray and expect His word to be true.
Take His yoke upon you, walk with Him, discover the Power of the Living God. (Mathew 11:29)
Thanks for visiting,
Know You Are Loved
We all have the relationship we want with God. I desire a more intimate one.
bill theunfetteredpreacher cote
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