Ya'betz

INTERCESSORY REPENTANCE

2009-04-15T07:23:00.000-07:00

For a number of years this ministry has been practicing what we have termed "intercessory repentance." We have encouraged those to whom we minister to practice it as well. Simply defined, intercessory repentance [IR] is the practice of interceding for those who are bound by sin by repenting on their behalf through confessing their sins to God until they are brought to repentance. It consists of a heartfelt sorrow concerning other's sins against God and the desire for them to turn away from their sin and submit themselves to God. We do not in any way seek to undermine the responsibility of the individual to be accountable for their sins.

Often we are not able to talk with those who are involved in sin because they are very defensive, hostile or self-righteous about their behavior. IR provides a powerful way of ministering those who cannot be reached in any other way. It avoids confrontation on a human level, but is a very powerful way to confront the enemy on a spiritual level.

There are ample scriptural precedents to support this principle. Let us examine various elements of this principle in God's Word.

I. The Believer's Priesthood

God directed that Aaron be consecrated as the first high priest of Israel. God established him as the model of priesthood. Priests were to be guardians and servants of the relationship God wanted with His people. The priests represented Israel before God and they also represented God to Israel.

In Leviticus 16, we are provided with detailed insight concerning the high priest's duties. On the Day of Atonement he prepared himself through physical cleansing and then offered a sin offering to make atonement for himself and his family. Following this, he interceded on behalf of the people and once again entered into the presence of God. Aaron received from the people two male goats. One goat was sacrificed as a sin offering and the other was made a scapegoat upon which the peoples' sins were placed and then sent out into the wilderness.

The point is that the priest first dealt with his own sin and then he came before God with the sins of the people. We have been taught that our priesthood primarily involves direct access to God; that we come boldly and directly to Him through prayer. That is true. But our priesthood also involves bringing the sins of others to God, confessing sin on their behalf and asking for God's grace to be extended to them so they may repent. As priests we come to our high priest, Jesus Christ and draw upon the grace provided by the shedding of His blood. As He makes intercession for us, so we make intercession for others, confessing their sins to God. In so doing, we bless them and frustrate the enemy by undermining his sin claim.

II. Forgiveness and Love

IR is not possible unless there is true forgiveness in our own hearts. We have to let go of judgment towards others no matter what they have done to us or to others we love, because the Lord loves them and that is His will. It may be difficult at first, but the Lord will help you do this. Strange as it may seem, we will also benefit if we are obedient in this manner. Through this act of forgiving grace, we will begin to see the person in a new light and will be released from the inner turmoil that has influenced us. It can bring much healing to the body of Christ.

III. Burden Bearing

Gal 6:1-2 (NRSV) "My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Bear one anothers burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

I cannot think of a better way to restore people than to repent for their sins which are grieving God, so that His grace may bring conviction in the area of the sin and hopefully repentance will follow. Through IR we can help fan the fires of conviction as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, because God will honor our priestly work. After a time a change of attitude is often detected and an opening may be provided in which someone is able to speak to the person in a loving and gentle way concerning sin issues. We encourage parents to minister to rebellious children by confessing their sins daily.

IV. Discernment and Warfare

Eph 6:18 "Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints."

As we intercede for those bound by sin, the Spirit will give insight as to the nature of the sin and also the activity of Satan concerning it. It is very difficult to bind up the power of any spirit that is working in someones life unless the sin claim, that gives him power to operate, has been addressed through intercession.

V. The Corporate Element

It is difficult for Americans to understand our corporate accountability before God, because we are culturally very independent and individualistic people. In the scriptures we witness the sin of an individual affecting future generations in a family (2 Ki 5:26-27) and also affecting a nation (Jos 22:20). In many respects, we are our brother's keeper. (Gen 4:9) God considers us accountable for how we feel about others, and how we treat and relate to them. Our sins affect others and their sins affect us.

Nehemiah understood that Israel had been taken into captivity because of their sins. He prayed to God and said, "I pray, Lord God of heaven, O great and awesome God, You who keep Your covenant and mercy with those who love You and observe Your commandments, please let Your ear be attentive and Your eyes open, that You may hear the prayer of Your servant which I prayer before You now, day and night, for the children of Israel Your servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel which we have sinned against You. Both my father's house and I have sinned. We have acted very corruptly against You, and have not kept commandments, the statutes, nor the ordinance which You commanded Your servant Moses." (Nehemiah 1:5-7)

As a result of this intercession, Nehemiah received favor with the king and was sent back to rebuild Jerusalem as governor. After Jerusalem's walls were repaired and gates built, Nehemiah and Ezra, who had also been confessing Israel's sins (Ezra 9:5-15), both witnessed God's Spirit bringing conviction and repentance to the people following the public reading of God's word in chapters 8 and 9. God honored their obedience with a spiritual revival!

Stephen was a man full of God's grace and power. He did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. He was brought before the Sanhedrin because of false accusations and he spoke eloquently but was condemned to death by stoning.

Acts 7:59-8:1 "While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' Then he fell on his knees and cried out, 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' When he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul was there, giving approval to his death."

Shortly after Stephen's prayer and death, Saul met Jesus on the road to Damascus and was converted. God had honored Stephen's prayer.

On the Cross, just before His death, Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." The book of Acts is a record of many that came to believe in Jesus Christ as the Messiah and Savior. They became the basis of the Church that God called into being to become the body of Christ continuing His work here on earthy.

Both Jesus and the Holy Spirit continue to make intercession for us. This is part of God's wondrous plan of grace.

Some Practical Applications

1. Ministering to family members

2. An effective element to include in our ministry to others

3. An effective way to intercede for institutions, government and nations

Summary of the principles:

1. Adopt a Christ-like attitude toward the person for whom you are interceding. Realize God's desire to see people repent and be free. Ask god to show you any wrong attitudes or motives which remain in you. Pray for God's love to overcome your prejudice and judgmental attitudes.

2. Ask God to show you the sin areas in a person's life that need to be addressed. Make a list of these sins so that you may intercede daily concerning them. Bringing them to God daily is necessary because people renew their sins daily.

3. Address every act of sin that occurs around you immediately. This can be done by immediately praying silently or going into another room for privacy.

4. Use your believer's authority in Christ to address demonic activity and bind the authority of the demon that is working at the time. Command that the demon's power be broken and order him to leave and go to where Jesus sends him. Mental commands can be effective in circumstances where you cannot speak aloud. Spirits communicate on a mental level anyway and the Holy Spirit anoints our commands with the authority and power of God. Always learn to act on the basis of faith, because you will not always see a reaction in the natural. If Christians only realized what often happens when they pray or exercise spiritual authority, they would truly be amazed.

5. Test the spirits (1 Jn 4:1). Do not always assume that your problems are always natural ones, or always the enemy. Pray for spiritual discernment. It is possible to test situations by confessing any sin connection and then exercising spiritual authority against any demonic activity associated with the problem. You will be surprised in the number of times your situation will change as a result.

This principle of intercession can be summed up by the words God spoke through the prophet Ezekiel concerning Jerusalem's sins. "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none."

If you are willing to step out in faith and explore this biblical principle of "intercessory repentance" you will soon realize it is possible through God's grace and power to pull down strongholds that the enemy has built. But you will have to learn to be patient, persevering and stand in faith on God's promises.

By Don Rodgers

IDENITY IN YESHUA (JESUS)

2009-04-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

MY RELATIONSHIP I am reconciled to God - 2 Cor 5:18
I'm a child of God - He is my Father - 1 Jn 3:1,2 I am a saint - Eph 1:1; 1 Cor 1:2; Phil 1:1
I am Christ's friend - Jn 15:15 I am a fellow citizen in God's kingdom - Eph 2:19
I am born of God - 1 Jn 4:7 I have been brought near to Christ - Eph 2:13
I have been adopted by God - Rom 8:15 I'm to be righteous and holy like God - Eph 4:24
I have direct access to God - Eph 2:18

MY INHERITANCE I am a citizen of heaven - Phil 3:20
I am an heir of God - Rom 8:17 I've been rescued from Satan's domain - Col 1:13
I am a joint heir with Christ - Rom 8:17; Gal 4:7 I am hidden with Christ in God - Col 3:3
I am blessed with every spiritual blessing - Eph 1:3 I am chosen of God - holy, beloved - Col 3:12
I am a child of promise - Rom 9:8; Gal 3:14 I am a child of light, not darkness - 1 Thess 5:5
I've been given great promises - 2 Pet 1:4 I am a partaker of Christ - Heb 3:14
I'm one of God's living stones - 1 Pet 2:5

MY TRANSFORMATION I'm a member of a royal priesthood - 1 Pet 2:9
I'm redeemed and forgiven - Eph 1:6-8 I'm to be a stranger to this world - 1 Pet 2:11I've been justified - made righteous - Rom 5:1 I'm an enemy of the devil - 1 Pet 5:8
I have eternal life - Jn 5:24
I died w/Christ to the power of sin - Rom 6:1-6 MY CALLING
I am free from condemnation - Rom 8:1 I am to be salt on the earth - Mt 5:13
I have received the Spirit of God -1 Cor 2:12 I am to be light in the world - Mt 5:14I have been given the mind of Christ - 1 Cor 2:16 I'm chosen and appointed to bear fruit - Jn 15:16
I have been crucified with Christ - Gal 2:20 I am called to do the works of Christ - Jn 14:12
I am a new creation - 2 Cor 5:17 I am to do what Christ commanded His disciples - Mt 28:20
I have been made alive with Christ - Eph 2:5 I have been given spiritual authority - Lk 10:19
I am God's workmanship - Eph 2:10 Signs should accompany my work - Mk 16:17-20
I have received fullness in Christ - Col 2:10 I am a minister of a new covenant - 2 Cor 3:6
I am a minister of reconciliation - 2 Cor 5:18,19

MY POSITION I am to be an expression of life in Christ - Col 3:4
I am connected to the true vine - Jn 15:1,5 I am a partaker of a heavenly calling - Heb 3:1
I'm a willing slave of righteousness - Rom 6:18,22
I am a temple of God - 1 Cor 3:16; 6:19
I am one spirit with the Lord - 1 Cor 6:17
I am a member of Christ's body - 1 Cor 12:27
I am reconciled to God - 2 Cor 5:18
I'm a child of God - He is my Father - 1 Jn 3:1,2 I am a saint - Eph 1:1; 1 Cor 1:2; Phil 1:1
I am Christ's friend - Jn 15:15 I am a fellow citizen in God's kingdom - Eph 2:19
I am born of God - 1 Jn 4:7 I have been brought near to Christ - Eph 2:13
I have been adopted by God - Rom 8:15 I'm to be righteous and holy like God - Eph 4:24
I've been justified - made righteous - Rom 5:1 I'm an enemy of the devil - 1 Pet 5:8

MY CALLING
I am free from condemnation - Rom 8:1 I am to be salt on the earth - Mt 5:13
I have received the Spirit of God -1 Cor 2:12 I am to be light in the world - Mt 5:14I have been given the mind of Christ - 1 Cor 2:16 I'm chosen and appointed to bear fruit - Jn 15:16
I have been crucified with Christ - Gal 2:20 I am called to do the works of Christ - Jn 14:12
I am a new creation - 2 Cor 5:17 I am to do what Christ commanded His disciples - Mt 28:20
I have been made alive with Christ - Eph 2:5 I have been given spiritual authority - Lk 10:19
I am God's workmanship - Eph 2:10 Signs should accompany my work - Mk 16:17-20
I have received fullness in Christ - Col 2:10 I am a minister of a new covenant - 2 Cor 3:6
I am a minister of reconciliation - 2 Cor 5:18,19

POWER OF PRAYER

2009-04-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

by Don Rogers

Gracious God, I acknowledge that You are worthy of all honor, glory and praise. I am thankful for the victorious work of Your Son, Jesus Christ at Calvary for me. I appropriate His victory for myself now as I willingly surrender every area of my life to Your will.

Thank you for the forgiveness and righteousness that has been given to me as Your adopted child. I trust in Your protection and provision daily. I know that your love for me never ceases.

I rejoice in Your victory, my Lord, over all the principalities and powers in the heavenlies. In faith I stand in Your victory and commit myself to live obediently for You my King.

I desire that my fellowship with You become greater. Reveal to me those things that grieve You and enables the enemy to secure an advantage in my life. I need the Holy Spirit's powerful ministry in my life; bringing conviction of sin, repentance of heart, strengthening my faith and increasing perseverance in resisting temptation.

Help me to die to self and walk in the victory of the new creation You have provided for me. Let the fruits of the Spirit flow out of my life so that You will be glorified through my life.

I know that it is Your will that I should stand firm and resist all of the enemy's work against me. Help me to discern the attacks upon my thoughts and emotions. Enable me to stand upon Your Word and resist all the accusations, distortions and condemnations that are hurled against me.

It is my desire to be transformed through the renewing of my mind, so that I will not compromise with the ways of the world, or yield to the enemy's attacks, but be obedient to Your will.

I draw upon those spiritual resources that You have provided me and I attack the strongholds and plans of the enemy that have been put in place against me. I command in the name of Jesus Christ that the enemy must release my mind, will, emotions and body completely. They have been yielded to the Lord and I belong to Him.

Lord, enable me to become the person You created me to be. Help me as I pray to be strong in faith. Show me how to apply Your Word in my life each day. I know that I wear the full armor of God when I am committed to and stand firmly upon Your Word. I want You to have the supreme place in my life.

I surrender myself completely to You, Lord. You are always faithful and You extend Your grace to me constantly, even when I do not realize it. I claim Your promise of forgiveness, cleansing and healing in its fullness. In faith, I receive the victory today that you have already put in place for me. I do this in the name of Jesus Christ, my Savior with a grateful heart. AMEN

SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY

2009-04-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

By Don Rogers
In order to exercise any kind of authority, one must represent a source that is ready and able to back up the represented authority with an adequate reserve of power.
1. THE CALLING TO EXERCISE AUTHORITY
Luke 9:1,2,6 - the disciples
Luke 10:19 - the seventy-two
Matthew 28:18-20 & Mark 16:17-20 - all believers
Romans 16:20 - all believers
James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8,9; & Ephesians 6:10-18 - all believers
2. THE CONDITIONS NECESSARY TO EXERCISE AUTHORITY
FAITH - rooted in Jesus Christ (Mt 16:16,18,19)
UNITY - of belief and purpose (Mt 18:19)
It is extremely important to understand correctly what the Lord is saying about the conditions of exercising spiritual authority. Many assume they have carte blanche or full discretionary authority to personally exercise. That is not what is being said by the Lord. Notice the following verses which portray accurately what was expressed in the Greek language.
Matthew 16:19 - "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you forbid on earth must be what is already forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth must be what is already permitted in heaven." (Williams version)
Matthew 18:18 - "I solemnly say to you, whatever you forbid on earth must be already forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth must be already permitted in heaven." (Williams version)
We must always be seeking God's will in each instance before exercising authority in Jesus' name. Sometimes we will already know God's will because it is revealed in His Word and other times we will need a direct revelation as to what we should do and when we should do it.
3. THE MANIFESTATION OF AUTHORITY
The keys of the Kingdom - to bind & loose what God has already bound or loosed. This is contingent on knowing God's will, not being led by our desires. (Mt 16:19) (Note: The Greek word "bind"(deo) means to "put in bonds" or "forbid" - the sense might be to restrict or limit by God's authority the activity of the enemy or even render him helpless. The Greek word "loose" (luo) means to break up, destroy, dissolve or put off - the sense might be to break up the work of the enemy, destroy his strongholds or power, dissolve or put off whatever the enemy has put in place and thus "permit" the freedom the Lord has ordained.)
Demonstrating the presence of God's kingdom - Ministering in power (Mt 12:28) Personally, I am committed to taking God's kingdom presence, His power and authority with me whenever and wherever I minister. I go as a representative of God's kingdom, operating in the calling He has put upon me. It is as objects of God's grace we are able to become "administrators of God's grace" to others. 1 Peter 4:10 - "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms."
4. CONDITIONS THAT RESIST SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY
Lack of Faith - Mt 17:19-21
A Community of Unbelief - (Prayer group, congregation etc) - Mk 6:4-6
The Practice of Sin - Gal 4:9; Jn 8:34,35
The Tricks of Satan - (Hindered through deception, attacks etc.) - 2 Cor 2:11
5. GOD'S AUTHORITY COMMITTED TO HUMAN HANDS
Moses - Exodus 14:15ff - parting the Red Sea
Elijah - 2 Kings 2:7-8 - parting the water in the Jordon River
Elisha - 2 Kings 6:17,18 - praying blindness upon the enemy
Paul - Acts 13:11 - pronounced blindness upon Elymas, the sorcerer
Peter - Acts 5 - pronounced the death of Ananias & Saphirra
The Promise - Acts 1:8 - power from the Holy Spirit
The Testimony - Romans 15:18,19 -
"I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done by the power of signs and miracles, through the power of the Spirit."

PUTTING YOUR HEAD IN THE SAND DOESN'T STOP SATAN FROM HARASSING YOU!

2009-04-07T15:56:00.000-07:00

CHRISTIAN PASSIVITY
by Don Rogers
I have noticed throughout nearly forty years of ministry a passive approach to the Christian walk that many Christians adopt without realizing it.
When I speak of “passivity” I mean the lack of engaging the scriptural truths that God has provided in His Word and working them out in everyday experiences.
Too often, Christians are satisfied to fill up on knowledge and do very little with it. Many seem to believe that acquiring the knowledge is sufficient concerning their obedience to God. But in reality, it is only the beginning of the process that God has called us to partake. We are told to study the Word (2 Tim. 2:15 KJV - “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”), meditate on the Word (Psa. 119:97 “O how I love Thy law! It is my all the day.” NAS), and work out the Word daily in our lives. (Phil. 2:12-13 “… work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” NAS)
There used to be a saying, “let go and let God.” My, how that expression his been misused. It became a spiritual excuse to not be actively engaged in the Christian struggle; just wait on the Lord to intervene. If He doesn’t, it must be His will.
Christian passivity is extremely detrimental to personal accountability in our living for God. So many Christians today lack personal commitment and a submissive attitude. It is quite apparent on the local church level.
I have noticed in the last fifteen years how many Christians migrate continually to a host of special meetings and conferences. So many that I have talked to seem to be searching for the “magic formula of truth” that will turn their lives around to victory. Yet, after many such meetings, they are just as empty as before. They have acquired information, but there is little apparent change in their lives. Many have become bewildered and confused as to why this is happening to them. Some even get angry at God for not doing something to change their lives.
It is quite apparent that numerous Christians are waiting for God to do something for them and are not taking responsibility to begin applying His truths to their lives, or yielding to the Holy Spirit, or trusting Him to help them work out their salvation daily, or depend on the cooperative relationship God desires us to have.
Fewer Christians are making the time to daily study their Bible and then spend time meditating on what the have read. If this is not done, it is like gulping food down without chewing it. This does not help the digestion process.
It is not enough to do your duty and read a bit of scripture each day. Have you noticed how little of it you retain? God wants us to desire His Word like food, and chew on it and digest it with the enlightenment that the Holy Spirit provides. When we hunger and thirst for the riches of the Word, it will be opened up to us. A superficial reading of the Word will not cut it , as far as spiritual growth is concerned. It is also very disrespectful of the wonderful revelation that God has provided us.
There are other reasons why passivity has crept into the lives of Christians. One has to do with “wrong priorities.” We live in a fast paced society where there are many demands upon ourselves and our family members. There will be little time for our spiritual lives unless they are given a place high on the list of our priorities. If we just hope to find time after we have taken care of other responsibilities, we will never have a consistent time with God, His Word, His people or for His service. Trying to squeeze everything in to a given day does not work either. We have to take inventory of our lives and start pruning away the non-essentials. God has to be first, the marriage second, the family third, work and then other things. Setting right priorities is often painful at first, but in the end it is liberating. The enemy will provide you with many reasons why you should continue to hang on to some things in your life.
I have a tendency to hold on to every little thing that has any value. I hate to throw anything away. Needless to say, I have multitudes of shelves in my cellar that are completely full as well as the aisles between them. I have not used these things for years, but I still hold on to them. It is almost impossible to find anything when I decide I want it.
In reality, I have wasted valuable space with things I may never use. That is what we are doing with our daily lives; letting a lot of insignificant things clutter our day and rob us of the benefit of the more important things.
Jesus pinpointed the problem in his interpretation of his Parable of the Sower in Luke 8:14 “The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.”
Another symptom of passivity is evident when it comes to the biblical teaching of spiritual warfare. The apostle Paul is very clear in Ephesians 6 that Christians are in a struggle with spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. There are many Christians who choose to let God fight the battle rather than get involved. It is clear that they feel ill equipped to deal with such a battle and they are not eager to find out. But all through scripture we are commanded to resist our enemy.
Ephesians 6:13 “Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
James 4:7 “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
1 Peter 5:8-9 “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
Throughout the body of Christ there is a fear of aggressively resisting the enemy who seeks to rob us and hinder us from attaining what God has called us to be. Part of fulfilling the Great Commission is setting the captives free. In order to do that, we must often confront the enemy in the power and authority of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Warfare is about having a biblical world view which includes the reality of an ongoing battle with the forces of evil for the souls of mankind. To join this battle one must have faith in the sovereign power of our God, assurance of our identity in Christ and faith in the promises of God.
God uses the struggle to strengthen His people in their faith and teaches them to not depend on their own strength or understanding. We learn to be led by the Holy Spirit who indwells us.
Passivity can be all encompassing. It affects people mentally, emotionally and their wills.
Mentally, we do not challenge the thoughts that come to us that are inconsistent to the Word of God. Many of our thoughts have their source in the enemy. We are told to “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Cor. 10:5
Emotionally, we let our feelings have undue influence in our lives, even at times having more weight than the Word of God. The enemy is very effective in stirring up our emotions with his intimidating suggestions.
The will is powerless to take any action or stand firm against what is being experienced. The enemy likes to suggest the hopelessness of our situation and that God will not be there when we need Him. As a result, people get into a fatalistic acceptance of the inevitable. These are some of the dangerous outcomes when passivity is allowed to become a way of life for the Christian. God has called each of His children to an active relationship with Himself and with others. The enemy wants to isolate us into passivity, but we must resist this. Our faith is about an intimate relationship with our Savior and a daily resisting of the temptations of the world and our enemy.
Passivity in and of itself can provide an opportunity for the enemy. First, we are living in disobedience and lacking in faith. Second, we are not prepared to stand against temptations and persevere during trials. We are not trusting in the omnipotent power of God to enable us and to protect us. We have allowed the enemy to become as big as God in our lives by blaming everything that happens in our lives on demonic activity. That is exactly what Satan wants you to believe. We allow ourselves to become easy prey to fear and stop trusting in the promises of God, the victorious finished work of our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross and His triumphant victory over the enemy through the resurrection.
"Put yourselves to the test to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize regarding yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you - unless, indeed, you fail the test!" 2 Corinthians 13:5 NET
I hope none of you have been trying to live your lives on the basis of an emotional religious experience you once had, but have never really experienced the fruits of inner transformation by the Spirit of God in your lives. Head knowledge of religious truth is never an adequate substitute for heart knowledge that brings about inner joy and faith in God despite the circumstances you experience. Such an experience brings freedom from fear and the desire to glorify God through your lives.
Put yourselves to the test!

BATTLEFIELD OF THE MIND

2009-04-07T09:48:00.000-07:00

As I went through this teaching the L-rd took me back to a time when he told me to cover my mind in the blood of Yeshua (Jesus) because that would be the first place that the enemy would attack me. That's why it is so important for us to put on the full armor of G-d everyday... Taking up the helmet of salvation...which covers the mind from attack. Covering are minds with the blood and the word. Washing the mind with the word to get out all the garbage and replace it with the things of the L-rd!

Satan's most frequent and consistent attack is directed against our minds. He sends his hosts out with an arsenal of weapons: lies, threats and intimidation, questions, accusations, lust and other enticements.
The attack often starts very early in life. If a child is abused at home, lies from the enemy appear in the thoughts saying the child deserves it or is not worth anything to anyone. Accusations surface in the thoughts that it is the child's fault anyway.
As many children are developing, questions from the enemy often appear in their thoughts regarding their sexual identity. Over and over these thoughts emerge causing confusion, shame and fear.
Once a child begins to receive any lie as truth, more lies will appear to reinforce the central lie. After awhile, the child will begin to focus on its own shortcomings and perceive the rejection of others. Sometimes people are directed, by the enemy, into their lives to prey on them to add more reinforcement to the lies.
If parents do not reflect the character of God to their children, the children will project all their shortcomings on to God. For instance, if one or more parents is cold, lacking in emotion, rigid and constantly preoccupied with other things, the child will see God as lacking compassion, unloving and not there for them. The enemy will encourage these perceptions.
Many bring a lot of bad baggage along with them into adulthood from their childhood. Some grow up in homes where there has been considerable control, manipulation and emotional or physical abuse. Women are often "led" to find a man of similar qualities to continue the destructive negative reinforcements in their lives. We cannot underestimate the enemy's influence in these situations.
In many cases, the enemy already has claims upon parents and even grandparents. Now the enemy focuses on the children, because he knows that the consequences of family sins can make the children vulnerable to similar attacks.
We minister to many adults who have been believing the enemy's lies about themselves for years. Often there are strongholds of low self-esteem and self hatred. Needless to say, it is very difficult for them, as believers, to live by faith. The enemy continues to pummel them will lies and accusations, causing much doubt and hopelessness.
We see many adults who are full of anger, bitterness and unforgiveness. Some time in their life, often in childhood, they have been hurt deeply by someone. The enemy will constantly give them "flashback memories" of that situation in the past. The memories are so painful, that they constantly stir up the anger, bitterness and resentment, so strongly that it is very difficult for that person to forgive, even though they know the need to.
We could continue indefinitely with these scenarios, but it is my hope you have gotten the point concerning the enemy's activity directed toward your thoughts.
What is a person to do when their mind has been under assault for such a long time? My answer to that is not simple, nor is it easy. But you have to start somewhere.
1. It is extremely important to correct the wrong perceptions of God. Any study that presents a balanced study of the character of God will be extremely beneficial. You might want to start with a simple study that we have on this site, entitled "Knowing God." This can be found at http://www.sw-mins.org/strat4.html This is only a basic study which can be built upon with more in-depth studies. I can't emphasize enough how important it is for you to correct your perception of God and have it line up with the Scriptures.
2. It is equally important to discover what God has to say about you. You need to know your true identity according to the Word of God. The enemy has been distorting and lying about you, so that you have a false perception of yourself. We have a simple study on this site in which you can discover what the Word of God says about you. The page is called, "The Believer's Identity in Christ," at http://www.sw-mins.org/identity.html Again, this is only a basic study which you can build upon later.
3. The apostle Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 10:5 to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." The first two steps, "Knowing God" and "The Believer's Identity in Christ," are the beginning of that process. It is imperative that you fill your mind with TRUTH to counteract the lies you have been believing. You also have to confess specifically that you have been believing the lies of the enemy and ask God to forgive you and cleanse you.
Part of taking your thoughts captive is to start disciplining yourself concerning the things you watch in the movies, TV and the Internet, as well as the things you read in books and magazines. You need to clean up what you are allowing to influence your mind and emotions.
The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things."
It won't be easy at first, but with God's help and a desire to please Him, you can overcome and claim victory.
4. God has given each of us direct access to Himself through prayer. He has said that we can come boldly into His presence and present our requests to Him. Most people do not take advantage of this great privilege. Many see it only as an obligation rather than a way to experience fellowship with the Lord. Parents want their children to come to them with their concerns. How much more does our God want us to come to Him. Jesus spent much time with his Father when he was on this earth.
Without a consistent prayer life and fellowship with the Lord, you will not experience the victory that you desire. God has given us the Holy Spirit to teach how to pray. God has given us promises to claim. He has given us tremendous provisions to utilize in our daily lives.
In closing, I want to remind you of another statement by the Apostle Paul.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
May God bless you with the determination to conquer the enemy's deceptions. It is the Lord's will for you to be free.

THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT WHICH IS THE WORD OF G-D

2009-04-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

As the years have come and gone the one thing that has remand consent has been G-d's word!

It has never failed!

At the very beginning of my relationship with the L-rd he taught me how to pray scripture over every circumstance, that has been my life line! Epheshians 6

talks about the sword of the spirit which is the word of G-d. G-d gave us the sword (word) to use during battle. If you have G-d's word hidden in your heart doing battle become easier. However if you are just starting out G-d's word stands firm.... go to the WORD and read the scripture over yourself , friends and family! It will never fail you!

Here are just a few scripture, as you go through the word the L-rd with enlighten you as to all the scriptures you have in your arsenal.

"Is not My word like fire," declares the Lord, "and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?" (Jeremiah 23:29) NIV
A few of these prayers have been PERSONALIZED for more effective praying.

Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me: fight against those who fight against me. Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me.
Say to my soul, "I am your salvation." May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away; may their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the Lord pursuing them. Since they hid their net for me without cause and without cause dug a pit for me, may ruin overtake them by surprise -- may they fall into the pit, to their ruin.
Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation. My whole being will exclaim, "Who is like You, O Lord? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them." (Psalm 35:1-10) NIV

I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.
My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before You. For You have upheld my right and my cause; You have sat on Your throne, judging righteously. You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; You have blotted out their name for ever and ever. Endless ruin has overtake the enemy, You have uprooted their cities; even the memory of them has perished.
You reign forever; You have established Your throne for judgment. You will judge the world in righteousness; You will govern the peoples with justice. You are a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know Your name will trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You. (Psalm 9:1-10) NIV (Personalized)

Lord, You are my light and my salvation -- whom shall I fear? You are the stronghold of my life -- of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.
One thing I ask You Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in Your house all the days of my life, to gaze upon Your beauty and seek You in Your temple. For in the day of trouble You will keep me safe in Your dwelling; You will hide me in the shelter of Your tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at Your tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord. Hear my voice when I call, O Lord, be merciful to me. (Psalm 27:1-7) NIV (Personalized)

In You, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in Your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since You are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of Your name lead and guide me. Free me from the trap that is set for me, for You are my refuge. Into Your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O Lord, the God of truth. I hate those who cling to worthless idols; I trust in the Lord. I will be glad and rejoice in Your love, for You saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place.
Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and my body with grief. My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction and my bones grow weak (Psalm 31:1-10) NIV
How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear you, which You bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in You. (verse 19) NIV

I will extol You Lord at all times; Your praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in You Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Be glorified Lord; I exalt Your name.
I sought You Lord, and He answered me; You deliver me from all my fears. Those who look to You are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. I called and You heard me; You saved me out of all my troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him. Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. (Psalm 34:1-10) NIV (Personalized)

I wait patiently for You Lord; You turn to me and hear my cry. You lift me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; You set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. You put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to You God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.
How blessed I am when I make You my trust, and do not look to the proud, or turn aside to false gods. Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders You have done. The things You planned for us no one can recount to You; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.
Sacrifice and offering You do not desire, but my ears You have pierced, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. Then I said, "Here I am, I have come -- it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, O my God; Your law is within my heart." (Psalm 40:1-8) NIV (Personalized)
Do not withhold Your mercy from me, O Lord; may Your love and Your truth always protect me. For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head and my heart fails within me. Be pleased, O Lord, to save me; O Lord, come quickly to help me. (verses 11-13)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love; according to Your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You are proved right when You speak and justified when You judge. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. Surely You desire truth in the inner parts; You teach me wisdom in the inmost place.
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones You have crushed rejoice. Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:1-10) NIV

In You, O Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. Rescue me and deliver me in Your righteousness; turn Your ear to me and save me. Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress. Deliver me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of evil and cruel men.
For You have been my hope, O Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on You; You brought me forth from my mother's womb I will ever praise You. (Psalm 71:1-6) NIV

May my cry come before You, O Lord; give me understanding according to Your word. May my supplication come before You; deliver me according to Your promise. May my lips overflow with praise, for You teach me Your decrees. May my tongue sing of Your word, for all Your commands are righteous. May Your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Your precepts.
I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and Your law is my delight. Le me live that I may praise You and may Your laws sustain me. I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek Your servant for I have not forgotten your commands. (Psalm 119:169-176) NIV

I kneel before the Father, from whom His whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen [me] with power through his Spirit in [my] inner being, so that Christ may dwell in [my heart] through faith. And I pray that [I], being rooted and established in love, may have power together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge -- that I may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all [I] ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work with [me], to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:14-21) NIV (Personalized)

What is Spiritual Warfare

2009-04-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

I'VE BEEN PRICKED IN MY HEART TO RUN THESE ARTICLES ON SPIRITUAL WARFARE...

I SEE HOUSEHOLDS GOING DOWN IN FLAMES BECAUSE THEY AREN'T AWARE THAT THEY HAVE ALL POWER IN HEAVEN AND EARTH TO SAVE THEIR FAMILIES...

PLEASE FOLLOW ME THOUGH THE WORD...

This is an important question, because "spiritual warfare" means different things to different people. The term itself is not found in the scriptures, but the concept is taught. Two of the most commonly associated passages were written by the Apostle Paul.
"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms." Eph. 6:10-12
Our ministry's stress upon spiritual warfare is an attempt to bring about a proper balance in Christian lives. So many Christians have become passive and fearful. Some are satisfied just to believe the right things and attend church services and activities each week. This type of lifestyle is quite different from that which Jesus had called believers. Like the apostles (Lk 9:1-2) and the seventy (Lk 10) who were told by Jesus to go out and preach and teach about the kingdom of God, and he also said they were to heal the sick and set the captives free. In Matt. 28:18-20, Jesus commissioned the disciples.
And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. and remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
The new converts were to be discipled and taught that God wanted them to be doing the things that Christ's disciples had been doing. And Jesus would be with His people to the end of the age, doing His works through them as they were yielded to Him in faith.
The reason ministries like ours exist at all is because of the failure of the Church to obey all of Christ's commission to His people. Working in the power of Christ to do extraordinary things in His name has been reasoned away, saying, "God does not work like that today." But we, and ministries like us, are reminders that God continues to work the way He did with the first century Church.
Spiritual warfare is a pro-active approach to our faith. We actively resist the devil when his hosts harass us. We actively pursue spiritual disciplines that will make us stronger and better prepared. We actively engage the enemy when people are in spiritual bondage.
We utilize prayer as a weapon to penetrate strongholds that cannot be reached in any other way. Spiritual warfare is the putting aside of passive attitudes towards faith which keep us from commitment and cause us to pursue only those things that will benefit us. Instead of seeking our own agenda, we submit our will to God and accept the sacrifices He calls us to make.
There is not one area of Christian ministry that has not become a battleground, but often there is not discernment that some form of spiritual resistance is in place. It has become common to attribute a natural or human explanation to most problems and leave it at that. The one who has a spiritual warfare perspective will be inclined to test the situation to ascertain whether or not there is something more than natural influences involved. For instance, when my daughter started having a series of painful bone cysts develop at the base of her spine, we challenged them with prayer and spiritual authority and they disappeared. When people enter our office for ministry, they often develop headaches or experience overwhelming fear. A command of spiritual authority immediately brings relief.
A spiritual warrior has an alertness to the activity of the enemy. This alertness is by no means fear or paranoia. He does not go around crediting Satan and his hosts for everything wrong under the sun. The Apostle Paul was a good example of a spiritual warrior. He didn't go out of his way to look for demonic activity, but when he encountered it, he quickly recognized it and then he confronted it with spiritual authority victoriously.
A spiritual warrior knows he must bring discipline to his thought life and to his actions. If he allows these areas to be compromised, he will not be effective in resisting the enemy. He takes sin very seriously, because he knows that sin always gives the adversary an advantage. He must always be on guard against comparing himself with others and being entrapped by the subtlety of religious pride. The true warrior knows that he can do nothing that is affective in his own strength. His strength, authority, wisdom and discernment are dependent upon his close walk with his Lord. He should always remain focused and guard himself against distraction caused by problems and troubles that appear. These are designed to get his eyes off the Lord and lure him into working in the flesh.
Understanding spiritual warfare provides a new perspective on parenthood. Parents are entrusted with children by the Lord to nurture, cherish and protect. In the parent, the child needs to see a reflection of God's attributes of unconditional love, faithfulness and holiness. The parent should become a steward of God's grace in the home and be on guard against the enemy's assaults on any member of the family. A godly parent can exercise great authority in the name of Christ to resist the enemy and fight on behalf of the children. Like Job, a parent is also the priest of the home, bringing the sins of the children to God so that the enemy cannot establish strongholds in their lives.
Spiritual warfare awareness can also be very effective in witnessing and evangelism. You learn to recognize the barriers and strongholds in advance and prepare the way through prayer, spiritual authority, divine appointments and ministry.
A spiritual warrior knows his inheritance in Christ. He knows God's promises and is not easy prey to the lies and deceptions of the enemy, who tries to call these promises and inheritance into question. He understands the lie is the enemy's language and his most effective weapon. Therefore, the warrior seeks constantly to fortify himself in an understanding of God's truth which he wears like armor for protection.
To summarize what I have been talking about, a commitment to spiritual warfare means:
1. A New Attitude - You begin to think like an overcomer with a victorious attitude. You walk according to your inheritance of grace in Christ. You no longer have an attitude of playing it safe or seeking not to rock the boat. You realize you want to be on the front lines for God, not trying to live the comfortable life with as few problems as possible.
2. A Greater Focus - You carefully guard against the attempts to distract you or to push your buttons. You recognize that the enemy likes to entangle God's people in the cares of this world or provoke us to react in the flesh. You understand the importance of keeping your eyes on the Lord and standing in faith upon God's character, not in your abilities.
3. A Necessary Discipline - You have begun to discipline yourself on all levels. You are setting more time aside for study and prayer. You are spending more time being alert and obedient to the leading of the Spirit.
4. A More Balanced Biblical World View - You take very seriously the Biblical warnings to God's people about an enemy that is real.

BY DON RODGERS

http://www.sw-mins.org/strat1.html

DOWN MEMORY LANE...IT'S PAPA FRANKS FAULT!

2008-09-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

WHAT ARE YOUR DRY BONES?

2008-09-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

This is the second time the L-rd has given these passages to me. I feel that this so important for our day! WHAT ARE YOUR DRY BONES? WHAT NEEDS TO BE RESURRECTED FROM THE DEAD? This question is one we all should all be asking ourselves. What is going on in our lives that we should be hearing the word of the L-rd and then speaking the word G-d so He can breath life into it?

G-d brought the house of Israel back to life, and is now, as we speak, bringing His children back to life.

We as His children are a type and shadow of the house of Israel and what G-d is doing for them He will do for us!

So just take a moment with G-d and listen to see what He is saying... HE WILL SPEAK,
THEN HE WILL BREATHE!

Ezekiel 37
The Dry Bones Live
1 The hand of the L-RD came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the L-RD, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones.
2 Then He caused me to pass by them all around, and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry.
3 And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
So I answered, “O L-rd G-D, You know.”
4 Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the L-RD!
5 Thus says the L-rd G-D to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live.
6 I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the L-RD.”’”
7 So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and suddenly a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to bone.
8 Indeed, as I looked, the sinews and the flesh came upon them, and the skin covered them over; but there was no breath in them.
9 Also He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, ‘Thus says the L-rd G-D: “Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.”’”
10 So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army.
11 Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They indeed say, ‘Our bones are dry, our hope is lost, and we ourselves are cut off!’
12 , ‘Thus says the L-rd G-D: “Behold, O My people, I will open your graves and cause you to come up from your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.
13 Then you shall know that I am the L-RD, when I have opened your graves, O My people, and brought you up from your graves.
14 I will put My Spirit in you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I, the L-RD, have spoken it and performed it,” says the L-RD.’

YOU WILL NEVER TAKE THIS FROM ME!

2008-08-26T10:11:00.000-07:00

GREAT INSPIRATION

2008-08-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

TAKE A PERSONALITY QUIZ

2008-08-25T20:04:00.000-07:00

You Are An INTJ

The Scientist

You have a head for ideas - and you are good at improving systems.

Logical and strategic, you prefer for everything in your life to be organized.

You tend to be a bit skeptical. You're both critical of yourself and of others.

Independent and stubborn, you tend to only befriend those who are a lot like you.

In love, you are always striving to improve your relationship.

You have strong ideas of what love should be like.

At work, you excel in figuring out difficult tasks. People think of you as "the brain."

You would make an excellent scientist, engineer, or programmer.

How you see yourself: Reasonable, knowledgeable, and competent

When other people don't get you, they see you as: Aloof, controlling, and insensitive

What's Your Personality Type?

IN THE POWER OF THE TONGUE

2008-08-24T14:31:00.000-07:00

In the beginning of my relationship with the L-rd He taught me about the power of the tongue and the words we speak. Somewhere over the years I forgot what He had taught! Now due to circumstances that I have found myself in... well dare I say G-d has been reemphasizing the power of my tongue!

I have had to repent over and over again because I have let sin control my tongue.

G-d had taught me to take the Word of the L-rd and speak it over all situations.

Isaiah 55:11
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.

Ezekiel 37: 1-14
1 The hand of the L-RD came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the L-RD, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones. 2 Then He caused me to pass by them all around, and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry. 3 And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”So I answered, “O L-rd G-D, You know.” 4 Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the L-RD! 5 Thus says the L-rd G-D to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live. 6 I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the L-RD.”’” 7 So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and suddenly a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to bone. 8 Indeed, as I looked, the sinews and the flesh came upon them, and the skin covered them over; but there was no breath in them. 9 Also He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, ‘Thus says the L-rd G-D: “Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.”’” 10 So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army. 11 Then He said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. They indeed say, ‘Our bones are dry, our hope is lost, and we ourselves are cut off!’ 12 Therefore prophesy and say to them, ‘Thus says the L-rd G-D: “Behold, O My people, I will open your graves and cause you to come up from your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. 13 Then you shall know that I am the L-RD, when I have opened your graves, O My people, and brought you up from your graves. 14 I will put My Spirit in you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I, the L-RD, have spoken it and performed it,” says the L-RD.’

How interesting that the L-rd told Ezekiel to speak to the bones and then he would do the rest!

In verse 4 the L-rd had already establish the word to go forth... Ezekiel had gotten that word and then spoke it! I believe that we can do the same.

James 3:1-12
1 My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. 2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Indeed,[a] we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. 4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things.See how great a forest a little fire kindles! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. 7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. 8 But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. 11 Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? 12 Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.

What comes to mind is Ecclesiastes 5:3 "A fool's voice is known by his many words" Think about how careless our words can be. Have you ever said something that offended someone without the intention to do so? Have you ever regretted saying too much to someone? When Yeshua says in Matthew 5:37, "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' mean 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.", I believe it was because He knew the damage that comes from saying too much; which can lead to gossip or even unknowingly incriminating yourself.
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." Think this is extreme? Consider those that have taken something offensive to heart and harmed themselves or others. A young lady could take a comment that implies she's fat, then a seed is inplanted her mind making way for an eating disorder. On the other hand, our words of encouragement can be a tremendous blessing to someone who we never realized needed to hear it.
When words are spoken, it's almost as if it's physically solidifying what is in our hearts. There is obvious spiritual significance in the words we speak or it wouldn't be stated in Romans 10:9-10:
"That if you confess with your mouth the L-rd Yeshua and believe in your heart that G-d has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."
Matthew 12:34 says "...For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks"

Proverbs 12:18 "There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health."

Ephesians 4:29 "Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers."

Psalm 14 1:3 "Set a guard, O L-RD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips."

Proverbs 15: 1-4 "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. The eyes of the L-RD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit."

Matthew 12:37 "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

I for one do not want to stand before the L-rd and be condemed for all the evil I have spoken!

JUST FOOD FOR THOUGHT!

"Out Of Hiding and into the LIGHT"

2008-08-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

This is a post my husband put on his blog just day's ago. Some of his Jewish friends have all but abandoned him due to his decision for Yeshua... He has been wrestling with this decision for a long time and many hours of study and prayer. He knew that it would mean the end of all that he holds dear... his friends... This was not the most popular decision... however it was the only one! I hold my husband in the highest esteem for coming to terms with the only thing he could do and that was to honor G-d and tell the world that Yeshua is the Mashiach!

For all of you who have stood by and loved Yehudi through this and have prayed for him...THANK YOU! May the G-d of the heavens and earth bless and keep you from all evil and fill your tents with plenty!

YEHUDI... I LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND HONOR YOU FOR THE TRULY AWESOME MAN YOU ARE!

http://jewishfire.blogspot.com/
go at your own risk.... it's really heated!

This is a very exciting post for me! I am proudly declaring myself a Messianic Jew. Through much study and prayer, it is an undeniable fact that Yeshua is the long-awaited Mashiach of the Jewish people. If he is not, then no one is and we are left without hope.
Some of my Jewish brothers will now consider me a christian. Let me be clear: I am not a christian, nor will I ever attend a christian church. I don’t mean to offend any of my Christian friends, however, I am a Jew. As a Jew, I observe Shabbat, remain kosher, and I now see that recognition of Yeshua as the Mashiach and Torah-observance are perfectly compatible.As I write this, I fully recognize that I am choosing the unpopular position and am now considered a mumar. It is something that grieves me, however, I would rather be ‘right’ about Hashem and unpopular with man than miss all that G-d has in store for me and hold the popular position among men. This is a very personal decision, and my blog will not be a platform of missionary activity. The desire of my heart is that Am Yisrael would turn to Hashem, accept the yoke of Torah, and da lifnei mi ata omed.

"ABC OF SHAVUOT"

2008-06-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

It is ironic that Shavuot is such a little-known holiday. Because in fact, Shavuot commemorates the single most important event in Jewish history -- the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai.
Shavuot is the culmination of the seven-week-long "counting of the Omer" that occurs following Passover. The very name "Shavuot" means "weeks," in recognition of the weeks of anticipation leading up to the Sinai experience. (Since Shavuot occurs 50 days after the first day of Passover, it is sometimes known as "Pentecost," a Greek word meaning "the holiday of 50 days.")
3,300 years ago, after leaving Egypt on the night of Passover, the Jews traveled into the Sinai desert. There, the entire Jewish nation -- 3 million men, women and children -- directly experienced divine revelation:
God spoke to you from the midst of the fire; you were hearing the sound of words, but you were not seeing a form, only a sound. He told you of His covenant, instructing you to keep the Ten Commandments, and He inscribed them on two stone tablets. (Deut. 4:12-13)
The giving of the Torah was an event of awesome proportions that indelibly stamped the Jewish nation with a unique character, faith and destiny. And in the 3,300 years since this event, Torah ideals - monotheism, justice, responsibility -- have become the moral basis for Western civilization.

HOW TO CELEBRATE
Perhaps the reason for the relative obscurity of Shavuot is because this holiday has no obvious "symbols" of the day -- i.e. no Shofar, no Sukkah, no Chanukah Menorah.
On Shavuot, there are no symbols to distract us from the central focus of Jewish life: the Torah. So how do we commemorate Shavuot? It is a widespread custom to stay up the entire night learning Torah. And since Torah is the way to self-perfection, the Shavuot night learning is called Tikkun Leil Shavuot, which means "an act of self-perfection on the night of Shavuot."
At synagogue services on Shavuot morning, we read the biblical book of Ruth. Ruth was a non-Jewish woman whose love for God and Torah led her to convert to Judaism. The Torah intimates that the souls of eventual converts were also present at Sinai, as it says: "I am making [the covenant] both with those here today before the Lord our God, and also with those not here today." (Deut. 29:13)
Ruth has a further connection to Shavuot, in that she became the ancestor of King David, who was born on Shavuot, and died on Shavuot.
On Shavuot, it is customary to decorate the synagogue with branches and flowers. This is because Mount Sinai blossomed with flowers on the day the Torah was given. The Bible also associates Shavuot with the harvest of wheat and fruits, and marks the bringing of the first fruits to the Holy Temple as an expression of thanksgiving. (see Exodus 23:16, 34:22, Numbers 28:26)
DAIRY FOODS
There is a universal Jewish tradition of eating dairy foods on Shavuot. The reason has been offered by many scholars, some of which are more convincing than others. We offer a selection:
The Biblical book Song of Songs (4:11) refers to the sweet nourishing value of Torah by saying: "It drips from your lips, like honey and milk under your tongue."
The verse in Exodus 23:19 juxtaposes the holiday of Shavuot with the prohibition of mixing milk and meat. On Shavuot, we therefore eat separate meals -- one of milk and one of meat.
Upon receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, the Jews immediately became obligated in the laws of Sh'chita -- slaughter of animals. Since they did not have time to prepare kosher meat, they ate dairy instead.

PILGRIMAGE TO THE WESTERN WALL
In 1967, the Six Day War ended just a few days before Shavuot. Israel had reclaimed the Western Wall, and for the first time in 19 years Jews had access to the area surrounding the Temple Mount, Judaism's holiest site. On Shavuot itself, the Western Wall became open to visitors, and on that one memorable day, over 200,000 Jews journeyed by foot to the Western Wall. (In Jerusalem, no cars or buses run on Jewish holidays.)
In subsequent years, this "pedestrian pilgrimage" has become a recurring tradition. Early on Shavuot morning -- after a full night of Torah learning -- the streets of Jerusalem are filled with tens of thousands of Jews walking to the Western Wall.
This tradition has biblical precedence. Shavuot is one of Judaism's three main pilgrimage festivals, where the entire nation would gather in Jerusalem for celebration and study.

The Voice Of G-D

2008-06-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

I want to share a situation that happened to my husband and I.

When my husband got his check from work, we were both in a bit of shock that it wasn't as much as we had planned. We are going on vacation in July, (which is the first one we've had in 6 years), so we wanted to save as much money as possible. Knowing that we would have to tithe and pay bills, it would leave us with just about zero for vacation. My husband and I haven't been tithing, but know we need to because we are robbing from G-d what is truly His in the first place. We could have again chosen to keep the money and take from Him what was His but we choose to give Hashem His 10% with a joyful heart.

As Jews, we give to people in need, so we thought we would just ask G-d where he wanted His money to go. I heard a still small voice that said one thing, but I wanted to hear what my husband heard before I said anything. I wrote down on a piece of paper what it was I heard and then asked my husband what he heard.

The awesome thing was that what I had heard G-d saying was something I would of never thought of, not because I didn't like the possibility, but my way of thinking is to choose food banks, homeless shelters, etc. But this time I heard something that was unfamiliar to me.
So I wrote it down and waited for my husband to tell me was he heard.
Out of his mouth came the same thing I had wrote down on my paper. The Friends of the IDF fund!!!

Oh my gosh... Please take hold of this. I know that G-d was just looking for us to be faithful to Him, but in that moment when my husband and I realized that the G-d of the heavens and earth was talking to the both of us about the same thing at the same time, we were in tears! Hashem is sooooo good! G-d inclines His ear to hear even the smallest prayer. There are a trillion people on this planet and G-d was listening and answering the prayers of two of His children!

I would encourage you to talk with G-d today because there is no prayer to small that He won't answer! Have a Shabbat Shalom!

tzara'as (Leprosy)

2008-06-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

God instructed all the Jews that if someone has tzara'as - which is defined as leprosy or skin contamination - then he needs to temporarily live away from everyone else.
In order to understand why this was done, it's first important to know exactly what caused someone to be afflicted with tzara'as. This skin aliment appeared on those people who gossiped about someone else. When the Jews lived in Israel during the times we had the Holy Temple, when someone slandered another person, he could be afflicted with this aliment.

Perhaps the reason he needed to be segregated from everyone else comes down to this: Human beings really don't like taking responsibility for their errant actions. Let me explain. No one wants to be thought of as a bad person or one who wrongs others. So in an effort to avoid this, most people simply choose to rationalize their behavior to demonstrate that they were completely justified in what they did. Our reasoning tends to boil down to this: Yes I did it, but it's definitely not what it seems.

Maybe this is why God wants the person not to live amongst other Jews until his tzara'as goes away. It was done to prevent this person from committing additional sins by repeating his gossip in an effort to show why it wasn't really gossip in the first place.
And this is the lesson for all of us. We all have the temptation at times to try to explain away our errant behavior. The next time you do something to someone else that you really shouldn't have done, try to resist the urge to make everyone believe that you really didn't do anything wrong. Instead, take personal responsibility for what you did. This will not only make you feel great, but will also act as a powerful shield against compounding your initial mistake.

Reference, Aish.com

HUMILITY AND MOUNT SINAI

2008-05-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

(Numbers 1:1-4:20)
The story is told of the great 19th century yeshiva in Europe called Novardok, where the students were known for their great humility. To reach such levels, they would sit for 30 minutes each morning in the study hall, rocking back and forth, chanting the mantra, "I am nothing, I am nothing."
One morning, a new student arrives at the yeshiva, and upon entering the study hall, is surprised to find hundreds of students muttering, "I am nothing." He checks the sign outside the door to make sure he has the right place, and then figures he might as well go in and join them. He finds an empty seat, sits down, and begins rocking back and forth, chanting, "I am nothing, I am nothing." Suddenly the student seated next to him turns and says: "The nerve of you! I was here an entire year before I was nothing!"
* * *
THE HUMBLE HILL
The Midrash says that when God was preparing to give the Torah, all the mountains stepped forward and declared why they thought the Torah should be given on them. "I am the highest mountain," said one. "No," said another, "I am the steepest mountain and therefore the Torah should be given on me."
One by one, they all stated their claims. But in the end, God chose Mount Sinai - not because it was the tallest or the grandest (because it's not, as anyone who's toured the Sinai Desert will attest), but because, says the Midrash, it was the most humble.
What is this notion of "humility" and what does it have to do with Torah?
First, let's clarify what humility is NOT. Humility does not mean a meek reluctance to speak up or be assertive. Humility is not slouching your shoulders and having low self-esteem. The Torah (Numbers 12:3) refers to Moses as "the most humble person who ever lived" -- and yet he aggressively confronts Pharaoh, fights a war against Amalek, and stands up to castigate the Jewish people.
* * *
HUMILITY DEFINED
Humility is to know one's place. In this week's Parsha, the Torah describes the arrangement of the 12 Tribes in the Israelite camp. After a long description of who will travel first, and who will travel last, the Torah says: "And the Jewish people did exactly as they were instructed" (Numbers 1:54).
What's the big deal that everyone camped where they were supposed to? The Midrash explains that when God suggested the arrangement, Moses began to complain, saying, "Now there will be disputes between the tribes." Moses reasoned that once he starts specifying who travels in the East and who travels in the West, who is in front and who is in back, people will start arguing. If the tribe of Yehudah is told to travel in the East, they will say they want to travel in the South, and so forth with each of the tribes.
God tells Moses: Years earlier, at Jacob's funeral, his 12 sons carried the coffin. The way the sons were arranged around the coffin is the same way the tribes will be arranged in the camp today. In this way, everyone is already clear as to his proper place. So don't worry, God tells Moses, because when someone knows their place, there is inevitably peace and calm.
This applies to our relationship with God as well. The higher a person becomes spiritually, the more humble he becomes. As we get closer to God, we become more realistic about our own limitations, vulnerability and mortality. We internalize the reality that every human's position is tenable and only God is eternal.
Moses was called "the most humble" because when he stood before God he knew his place. Anything else precludes room for God to fit in. That's why the Talmud likens arrogance to idol worship; both push away the presence of God.
* * *
NOSE IN THE AIR
In the secular world, the biggest personalities are usually the most arrogant. Picture the scene: A movie star walks into a party -- strutting, cocky, head raised. His mannerisms shout: "I am great and I don't need you or anybody else." The room is silent with awe. Charisma!
Judaism says this is counterfeit charisma.
True humility means living with the reality that nothing matters except doing the right thing. The humble person is not dependent on the opinion of others. Because sometimes doing the right thing is popular (and consistent with one's ego needs), and sometimes it's not. But the humble person can set his ego aside, if need be, in order to consistently do the right thing.
An arrogant person, on the other hand, is not con-cerned about right and wrong -- only about himself and how well things will turn out for him. He can appear to be smooth on the surface, but he's really just manipulating everything around him to suit his self-centered needs.
"Arrogance" = I'm all that counts.
"Humility" = What's greater than me is what counts.
In actuality, it is humility which guarantees charisma! The humble person has the ability to rise above his self-contained narcissistic envelope and embrace those around him. Since he confidently knows his place, he can leave space for others without having an ego crisis. He honors others and helps them find their place, too.
Isn't that true charisma?!
* * *
FORWARD OR BACK?
Humility is the ability to be objective about one's own position vis-a-vis everyone else. If I am in the position to lead, then I should lead. And if not, I should defer. I must know where I stand, and not take undo liberties. If I am in the presence of someone more knowledgeable, I should think twice before speaking. There is nothing more annoying than an accountant standing in a roomful of doctors and pontificating on medical science.
Rabbi Simcha Bunim of Pshischa (19th century Europe) always carried two slips of paper -- one in the right pocket and one in the left. On one paper was written the Talmudic statement, "The entire world was created just for me" (Sanhedrin 38a). On the other paper was written the words of Abraham, "I am but dust and ashes" (Genesis 18:27). In this way, he was reminded that there are times to step forward, and times to step back.
* * *
MODERN MODEL OF HUMILITY
Take for example Rabbi Moshe Feinstein zt"l, the leader of American Jewry for much of the 20th century. In the introduction to Iggress Moshe, his monumental compendium of responsa, Rabbi Feinstein writes: "I would not have volunteered for the job of leading the Jewish people. But since this is the role that God has selected for me, I must accept it willingly."
One day in the study hall, a visitor picked up the pay phone, and the voice on the other end asked to speak with Moshe Feinstein. The visitor then walked into the study hall and began shouting: "Moishy! Phone call for Moishy!" Incredibly, he was using an informal nickname for the great sage! Rabbi Feinstein calmly raised his hand and graciously accepted the phone.
Rabbi Feinstein's sister was once asked, "What makes your brother so special?" She answered: "What makes my brother special is that he never looks at himself as being so special."
* * *
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
So how do we achieve humility? The first thing a Jew does upon awakening in the morning is to say the Modeh Ani prayer: "I acknowledge you, God, for graciously returning my soul for yet another day. Thank you!"
Step One to humility is to put our relationship with God into perspective. We feel the "We," rather than the self-indulgent, negative energy. We emerge more relaxed, calm and flexible. And this in turn trickles down to all our interpersonal relationships: business partnership, marriage, community and nation-building.
Step Two to humility is found in the opening verse of this week's parsha. "And God spoke to Moses in the Sinai Desert" (Numbers 1:1). The Sages ask a fundamental question: Why was the Torah given in a desert? Because a desert is empty. What this means is that to acquire Torah -- to receive God's wisdom -- we must first be willing to open up space inside.
The Maharal (16th century Prague) explains that the only way to teach anything is to first get the student to ask a question. Because a question creates a lack and a need -- a space that the answer can then come and fill. But without first a question, there is no room for the answer.
In this time of the Shavuot holiday and reliving the Sinai experience, the message for us is to know our place, make some space, and let the truth of God and His Torah enter deep inside.
Shabbat Shalom,Rabbi Shraga Simmons

THAT YOU MAY BE KNOWN

2008-05-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

My Plagues To Your Heart

"... at this time I will send all My plagues to your heart... so that you [will] know that there is none like Me in all the earth. For at any time I [could] have put forth My hand and... struck you and your people with [a] plague and you [would] have been wiped from the earth. And yet, for this [purpose] I have caused you to stand, so as to show you My power, and for the sake of declaring My Name in all the earth...." Sh'mot 9:14-16
Adonai makes Himself known by allowing us to be part of His plans. He makes Himself known by setting His people apart, giving us a platform from which to shine. But He also makes Himself known by raising up and setting apart the wicked—not so they may triumph, but so that He may make an example of them. Adonai causes His enemies to stand "so as to show... [His] power, and for the sake of declaring [His] Name in all the earth."
For all time, the Mitz'riy (Egyptians) stand as an example for those who would presume to oppose the will of G-d. Let us, therefore, receive the warning in earnest and consider how we might fare should our hearts be hardened to the G-d of Yis'rael. For the sons of men, all Adonai has ever wanted was for us to know Him. May we know Him, then, not by His wrath, but by the patience and mercy He constantly displays... even as we constantly seem to forget that He alone is G-d.

P R A Y E R
That You may be known, Adonai, display Your glory and greatness! I praise You, Lord, for there truly is none like You in all the earth. Thank You, Hashem, for holding back Your hand, even though I am constantly taking You for granted. Show me Your ways, Adonai, that I may know You more, and never forget that You are G-d. I bless You, mighty one of Yis'rael, who sets apart the wicked and the righteous for the glory of Your great Name...

Ref. Messianic Devotional

"Until You Have Blessed Me"

2008-03-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

Until You Have Blessed Me
"And Ya'akov was left alone, and [a] man wrestled with him until the ascending of the dawn. And [when the man] saw that he was not able to overpower him, he struck the socket of [Ya'akov's] thigh.... And [the man] said, 'Let me [go] away, for the dawn has ascended.' And [Ya'akov] said, 'I [will] not let you [go] away until you have blessed me.' And [the man] said to him, 'What is your name?' And he said, 'Ya'akov.' And [the man] said, 'Your name will no more [be] called Ya'akov, but Yis'rael, for you have persevered with G-d and with men, and have prevailed.' ...And Ya'akov called the name of the place P'nuel, for 'I have seen G-d face to face...'" B'reshiyt (Genesis) 32:24-31
What Ya'akov lacked in judgment, he made up for in tenacity. Though taking advantage of people was Ya'akov's strong suit, on this night—as he wrestled with the man—he was finally unable to get the upper hand. Not one for losing, Ya'akov instead held out all night, ultimately forced to settle for a draw. But was the contest worth the cost?
Though Ya'akov successfully wrestled a blessing out of G-d, it nevertheless left him limping from the mat. Like Ya'akov, we, too, often struggle with G-d, and come away from the match a little beat up. We fight with G-d as if we could win; we hold Him down as if we could force Him to stay. What are we thinking when we go in against G-d?
Too often, we contend with G-d for His blessing, rather than being content to just be with G-d. Like Ya'akov, then, let us hold onto Adonai and refuse to let go—but not just so that we can get the blessing. Instead, rather than fighting Him for what He already wants us to have, let us hold on to Him for dear life while He takes us wherever He wants us to go.

P R A Y E R
Adonai, I praise You, because even when I fight against You, You refuse to let me go. Lead me, Abba, and cause me to no longer resist, but to willfully follow in all Your ways. I bless Your great Name, O G-d, for You do not hold me so gingerly that I cannot feel Your presence. Bruise me, Adonai, if that's what it will take to get my attention.

Taken from Messianic Devotional

messianicdevotional.com

" True Love"

2008-02-27T08:08:00.000-08:00

"I've never had such a clear mental image of him. I don't need a photograph, I can see him oh so well," she said.

As I read through this article the L-rd spoke in a still, small voice, not in the thunder but in the all-so small voice. "How beautiful it was that through the years Anne could still see Peter's face as though he was still standing there. Her love for him transended time and space, that is what true love will do. That is what I want from My children, to have such a love for Me that through all the trumoil of life you can see My face so clearly. I have been with you always, yet My children have forgotten what I look like... how I have loved My children through all time and space!"

Oh, that we would return back to our first love, never ever forgetting, even for an instant what our true love, Yeshua, looks like!

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - A photograph of the boy with the "beautiful brown eyes" who Anne Frank recalled as her "one true love" in the diary she wrote whilst in hiding in the Nazi-occupied Netherlands is to go on display in Amsterdam.

The photo of Peter Schiff was donated to the Anne Frank museum by his former childhood friend Ernst Michaelis who realized after rereading Anne's diary recently there were no known pictures of Schiff, a museum spokeswoman said on Tuesday.

Frank's Jewish family fled Nazi Germany in 1933 and settled in Amsterdam. During World War Two the Nazis occupied the Netherlands and began deporting Jews to the death camps in 1942, prompting the Frank family to go into hiding.

They lived in a secret annex in a canal-side house for more than two years before their hiding place was betrayed and the family sent to concentration camps.

Anne recorded her years in the attic hideaway in her diaries. A Dutch woman who helped the family found them in the annex after Anne's arrest and gave them to her father Otto who survived the Holocaust. They became famous around the world.

She writes in her diary: "I forgot that I haven't yet told you the story of my one true love."

"Peter was the ideal boy: tall, slim and good-looking, with a serious, quiet and intelligent face," Anne wrote of the 13-year-old she had fallen for in 1940 when she was just 11.

SCHOOL FRIENDS

They would collect each other from school and walk hand in hand through their local neighborhood.

"He had dark hair, beautiful brown eyes, ruddy cheeks and a nicely pointed nose. I was crazy about his smile, which made him look so boyish and mischievous."

Peter later died in Auschwitz, while Anne died in Bergen Belsen concentration camp in 1945.

Michaelis, now 81, had attended a Jewish school with Schiff in Berlin in the 1930s before both families fled the Nazis. When they parted, the boys exchanged photographs.

"He read the diary in the 1950s and thought that Peter Schiff was very likely his friend. But it was only when reading it later that he saw there were no photos and so he contacted us," said a museum spokeswoman.

Anne last saw Peter a few days before she moved into the annexe, but wrote of him in her diary more than 1-1/2 years later after dreaming of him.

"I've never had such a clear mental image of him. I don't need a photograph, I can see him oh so well," she said.

"Forever Faithful"

2008-02-20T11:26:00.000-08:00

I was at at blog recently, this wonderful women of the L-rd was talking about forgiveness and how hard it is to forgive people in whom we have issues. How we have to deal with gross injustices on a consistant bases, ones that keep on hurting us over and over without repentance or they have repented maybe not to are liking and so they keep on doing the same thing over and over.

The Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) reminded of a time in my life when he told me to forgive my father for not staying in touch with us.

The story starts when I was 4 years old, my parents were young... very young. My father was in the Navy, my mother and father had three children by the age of 21.
They decided to divorce for what ever reason (young comes to mind), my father stayed on the east coast and she went back to west coast to live with my grandparents. My mother was married 5 times in the coarse of her life and one of those men molested me and my older sister when we were young. I always thought that had I had my father then all these bad things wouldn't of happened to us, we would have been safe, and we wouldn't have had to go through all my mothers disfunctions. Eighteen years later my father wanted to be apart of my life... as for me it was to late to be saved I thought I was doing just fine on my own or was I?... you have to know that this didn't go over real big. I never had any communication with him at all and I didn't want to.

I accepted Yeshua at the age of 14 and then came into a deeper relationship with our Savior at the age of 36 the Ruach HaKodesh(Holy Spirit) started talking very loudly, he wanted me to forgive my father and go and see him which was not in my plans at all. He then proceded to give me dreams and visions, scripture from the word as well as my pastor. The Ruauch HaKodesh told me I could not move to the next level of ministry until I made this right.

One of the dreams he gave me was me in the airport, I was waiting to come home from my fathers house and nothing had change, I had not forgiven him and actually hated him even more than I did before I left.

After getting in contact with my father and setting a time for me to go, I started to pray that the trip would be fruitful and that the enemy would not have this victory.

I had been taught that dreams and visions given by G-d were meant to change things. Well I prayed and pray for the month prior to my leaving, wanting things to be resolve between us... however it wasn't. I came home the same as I went and even worse.

My mother had passed away at the age of 58 just months prior to me going. My father was not repentant and did alot of mother bashing and oh poor me while I was their. I now know it was out of his own hurt for losing his girls. But I really didn't want to hear that at the time. I told him that even though my mom had done some terrible things at least she never abandonded us! It was horrible... I was coming home the same way I had left! I kept saying that if I met him on the street I would never want to know him. I hated him that much, I do relize that hate is a strong word but that is truly the only way to describe it.

The Holy Spirt told me that I needed to start blessing my father, because his word said so. I said NO! We wrestled back and forth for days, then I decided to start blessing him not because I wanted to but out of obediance. Yeshua had died and shed His blood to make it possible. It wasn't two day's later that I found myself truly longing for my earthly father, the one I had hated so much I now was crying on the phone and asking him to let me come back so we could try again, and so I turned right back around and flew back. This time all was different, the walls came down. Yeshua is truly the repairer of the breached!

I can't say it was all roses but we began to dialoge. It has been 10 years since then and I couldn't love my father any more than I do... at least I don't think so.
My father never changed... it was my obediance to the Father of light that changed my heart. G-d asks us to bless those who persecute us; bless and do not curse. Romans 12:14

Blessing my enemies has always turned my heart from stone to a heart of flesh!

How about yours?

"Olivia...A women of G-d"

2008-02-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

I was looking at different blogs one day and came across Olivia...She has such a heart for G-d and a wonderful testimony. I would like to invite you to take a look and become part of her world... It will surely inspire you!

http://inspiredbygrace.blogspot.com/

"Lucky"

2008-02-06T19:56:00.001-08:00

A picture speaks a thousand words!

Anyone who has pets will really like this. You'll like it even if you
don't and may decide you need one. Mary and her husband Jim had a dog,
Lucky. Lucky was a real character. Whenever Mary and Jim had company
come for a weekend visit they would warn their friends to not leave
their luggage open because Lucky would help himself to whatever struck
his fancy. Inevitably someone would forget and something would come up
missing. Mary or Jim would go to Lucky's toy box in the basement and
there the treasure would be, amid all of Lucky's favorite toys. Lucky
always stashed his finds in his toy box and he was very particular that
his toys stay in the box.

It happened that Mary found out she had breast cancer. Something told
her she was going to die of this disease...she was just sure it was
fatal. She scheduled the double mastectomy, fear riding her shoulders.

The night before she was to go to the hospital she cuddled with Lucky.

A thought struck her...what would happen to Lucky? Although the
three-year-old dog liked Jim he was Mary's dog through and through. If

I die Lucky will be abandoned, Mary thought. He won't understand that I
didn't want to leave him. The thought made her sadder than thinking of
her own death.

The double mastectomy was harder on Mary than her doctors had
anticipated and Mary was hospitalized for over two weeks. Jim took
Lucky for his evening walk faithfully but the dog just drooped, whining and
miserable. But finally the day came for Mary to leave the hospital.

When she arrived home, Mary was so exhausted she couldn't even make it up
the steps to her bedroom. Jim made his wife comfortable on the couch and
left her to nap. Lucky stood watching Mary but he didn't come to her
when she called. It made Mary sad but sleep soon overcame her and she
dozed.

When Mary woke for a second she couldn't understand what was wrong. She
couldn't move her head and her body felt heavy and hot. Panic soon gave
way to laughter though when Mary realized the problem. She was covered,
literally blanketed in every treasure Lucky owned! While she had slept
the sorrowing dog had made trip after trip to the basement and back
bringing his beloved mistress his favorite things in life. He had
covered her with his love. Mary forgot about dying. Instead she and
Lucky began living again, walking further and further together every
night.

It's been 12 years now and Mary is still cancer-free. Lucky? He still
steals treasures and stashes them in his toy box but Mary remains his
greatest treasure.

Live everyday to the fullest...because every day is a blessing from
God! He covers you with His treasures and His love!

Hugs,

May you always have work for your hands to do.
May your pockets hold always a coin or two.
May the sun shine bright on your windowpane.
May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.

"An Interview with G-d"

2008-02-06T19:56:00.000-08:00

"I Get On MY Knees"

2008-02-06T19:13:00.000-08:00

I love this song... I have had to be on my knees alot lately. G-d has shown up in the midnight hour(once again). This is for all who have seen me through a very difficut time! Who came to my aid in a desperate time. My prayers of blessing and love go with you wherever you go!

"These Are The Days Of Elijah"

2008-02-06T13:14:00.001-08:00

It is time for all of us to go out and bring in the harvest, from your neighborhoods and jobs we all need to go... Make no mistake... "To whom much is given much will be required!"

This is a great video by Paul Wilbur, he was in Israel at the time.

These are the days of Elijah
Declaring the Word of the L-rd

And these are the days of your servant Moses
Righteousness being restored

And though these are days of great trials
Of famine and darkness and sword

Still we are the voice in the desert crying
Prepare ye the way of the L-rd!

Behold He comes! Riding on the clouds!
Shining like the sun! At the trumpet call
Lift your voice! It's the year of Jubilee!
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes!

And these are the days of Ezekiel
The dry bones becoming as flesh

And these are the days of your servant David
Rebuilding a temple of praise

And these are the days of the harvest
The fields are as white in the world

And we are the labourers in your vineyard
Declaring the word of the Lord!

Behold He comes! Riding on the clouds!
Shining like the sun! At the trumpet call
Lift your voice! It's the year of Jubilee!
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes!

Behold He comes! Riding on the clouds!
Shining like the sun! At the trumpet call
Lift your voice! It's the year of Jubilee!
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes!

Behold He comes! Riding on the clouds!
Shining like the sun! At the trumpet call
Lift your voice! It's the year of Jubilee!
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes!

And out of Zion's hill salvation comes!

And out of Zion's hill salvation comes!

Who was and who is and who is to come!

"The Miracle"

2007-12-18T15:39:00.006-08:00

"Kissing The Face Of G-d"

2007-12-18T15:39:00.003-08:00

As a Messianic Jewish women I know that this was not the time of our Saviors birth, however during this season this give me the opportunity to acknowledge the coming of my Messiah!
This is a great time to look at the walk we have with the L-rd, reflecting on how we all from time to time need to travel back to the beginning of our faith, realizing that it was in are innocents when G-d always showed up...just as He did in the BEGINNING!

"We Are One Israel"

2007-12-11T21:38:00.000-08:00

Prayer for Our Children

2007-12-11T13:56:00.000-08:00

This prayer in new translation of "Book of Prayers for Jewish Women" by Fanny Neuda-a rebbetzin in Germany in 1855. It touches me so much...I thought perhaps it would bring comfort to others.

Please for sake of the mothers and father of these men and all soldiers who go to battle and don't come home, let us not forget our children in prayer!

"From a Mother Whose Child is in Military Service... Almighty ruler of armies, you who reign mightily in Heaven and on Earth, I raise my prayer to you from the depths of a mother's heart.

Turn your presence toward me and hear me in your mercy.

Following the call of duty, my child has entered the ranks of those who fight on behalf of our country to stand for what is right and proper, to fend off threats to our nation's peace and security.

I thank you, Eternal G-d, for having given me a child strong, healthy limbs, capable of carrying out this valiant task, it shakes and terrifies my heart to think of the many dangers that will surround him. Young and inexperienced, far from the instruction and admonitions of his parents, how easily his heart might be tempted to be unfaithful to his duties and to fall into sin.

Therefore I beg of you, Eternal G-d, take my child into your powerful protection. Surround him with your all encompassing grace.

Strengthen and invigorate every noble feeling and every impulse toward good that is within them.

Strengthen and invigorate every memory of parental guidance, and advice that rises up in his soul, the teachings of virtue and that fear of G-d will never vanish from his sight.

That his soul does not turn hard under the service of arms and that no corrupting influences overcome him.

All Compassionate One, grant my child insight and strength, vigor and endurance, to fulfill his difficult duties with care and alertness so he may not be guilty of evil or transgression, and that he would not become confused or unstable amid unrelenting chaos.

And when the hot, difficult hour arrives when they are called out to the battlefield where death holds its harvest, there Eternal G-d, surround them with your mercy. Let your grace serve as a shield and as armor. Steady there arm, pour courage into their heart, and let the memory of the ancient heroes of Israel stir in their breast, allowing them to enter the fight with strength and resolve. Let my child, through his bravery and valor, bring honor to our people and show faithful service to our nation.

Almighty G-d, hear this mother's prayer for her child! Let my maternal blessing surround him like a guarding banner, so they shall return with their service well completed, healthy in body and spirit, adorned with signs that they fulfilled their duty and that they have been recognized and praised to the joy of my heart, to the glory and praise of your name. Amen

"Dinah Berland worked with a translator to bring this prayer into modern English and set them into verse. I hope they may bring some comfort to others.

As we all know not all of our children will return home to the loving arms of their mothers.

My prayer is for all the mothers and father who now have empty arms that they would be comforted by the Eternal Parent, the Great and Awesome Hashem, the one who knows what it is like to lose a child! May we all be comforted that one day we will see again the ones we love so dearly!

Light One Candle

2007-12-04T14:53:00.001-08:00

Hanukkah Sameach everyone!

Shame on Olmert!

2007-11-28T13:51:00.000-08:00

Shame on Ehud Olmert, he speaks only for himself! As a Jew who has had a relative give their life for the nation of Israel, and cast off to start a new life in another country-a place that was foreign to him with nothing but the clothes on his back; I am appalled at the dictatorship-like mentality he is displaying.

I weep for the injustice of what our Prime Minister is saying and doing. I pray that HaShem will remove Olmert, as He has done with every other king of Israel that has rebelled against the hand of G-d. It truly is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the Living G-d! Please join with me in prayer to reclaim the land our forefathers gave us! The picture at the top of this page is a monument in Israel to honor the six million Jews that were killed for our land. When I was standing in front of this monument and crying with every step I took, I was praying that this would never happen again. Whole families are gone because of the evil that wanted to take over our land! Please let us never forget where we came from... whether Jew or Gentile! May the Messiah come quickly!!

I wanted to thank Deborah for putting this article on her blog.

Thousands rally in Jerusalem against Annapolis
By Nadav Shragai

The most salient evidence of the rights feeling of crisis was yesterday's return of Shaul Goldstein to the bosom of the Yesha Council of settlements, which he abandoned last year. Goldstein spoke at the rally the council organized against the Annapolis conference and dividing Jerusalem, which drew thousands of people to the capital's Paris Square.

Goldstein quoted Ehud Olmert's words of two years ago - "We are tired of being brave, we are tired of winning, we are tired of defeating our enemies" - and declared: "Your role, Prime Minister Olmert, is to ensure that our enemies get tired of losing. We aren't tired of winning, defeating our enemies or being brave, and you have no mandate to cede the Land of Israel, the historic property of the nation of Israel. The nation of Israel did not establish a state so that you and your weak government could concede it." Yesterday's protest activities began with a mass prayer session at the Western Wall, which included the recitation of Psalms, penitential prayers and prayers for the peace of Israel. Then, hundreds of rabbis from the Union of Rabbis for the Land of Israel gathered in Yeshivat Hakotel to draft several declarative resolutions, including the following: * "There is a grave Torah prohibition on giving parts of the Land of Israel to non-Jews, and all the more so to the Palestinians, who are enemies and foes." * "The decision to establish a Palestinian state is unauthorized ... null and void from the outset, and forever ... and constitutes a betrayal of the government's duty to defend all its citizens." * "Everyone who joins the government in carrying out this miserable plan violates the prohibition: 'Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor.'" Rabbi Dov Lior, chairman of the Council of Yesha Rabbis, told the meeting: "Peace has claimed 1,000 lives, and still their hands are outstretched. This peace is the opium of the masses." After the prayer session, many of the worshipers marched to join the thousands of demonstrators gathered in Paris Square. With mixed emotions, the protesters listened to speeches from three members of Olmert's coalition: MKs David Tal (Yisrael Beiteinu), Nissim Zeev (Shas) and Zeev Elkin (Kadima). The three MKs promised not to allow Olmert to give up Jerusalem or freeze construction in the settlements, but nevertheless drew some catcalls and cries of "Leave the government!" Yet the demonstrators appeared to have equally mixed feelings about the news that MKs Arieh Eldad and Effie Eitam (National Union-National Religious Party) had boycotted the rally because coalition members were invited to speak. Yesha Council Chairman Danny Dayan described the government's moves as "stupidity and blindness" in his address to the rally. "Just two years ago, they sacrificed a flourishing piece of land, expelled its pioneering residents, and brought us Qassam [rockets], terror and Hamas," he said. "No more. We won't let you. It won't happen. We have come to defend the unity of Jerusalem, the security of Tel Aviv, the essence of this state, and loyalty to the values that established it." MK Zvi Hendel (National Union-National Religious Party) also addressed the rally, saying: "There is no animal more dangerous than a wounded animal, and today, Olmert is an animal that has been wounded by committees of inquiry and police investigations. From this weakness stems his desire to divide Jerusalem and free [Palestinian] murderers. There has never been a prime minister so dangerous to Israel." The demonstrators appeared to agree. Throughout the event - which also featured a rendition of Naomi Shemer's classic anthem to the city, Jerusalem of Gold - there were repeated calls from the crowd for Olmert's resignation.

Messianic Judaism-Beyond Evangelistic Shtick

2007-11-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

I didn't write this... However this is how my husband and I feel. I thought you might like the link to this mans blog. http://towardblog.blogspot.com/
I believe that G-d has a ministry to touch each individual, we weren't all cut from the same mold... We have the same Potter different clay!

Messianic Judaism - Beyond Evangelistic Shtick

In defining what Messianic Judaism is it is important to deal with the issue of Torah observance and to see what the differing voices in the larger spectrum say on this issue. In doing this we can see clearer those who affirm a Messianic Judaism that is a Torah-honoring movement for Yeshua and those who hold for a Jewish cultural form of Evangelical Christianity. This is the divide between Messianic Judaism and Jews for Jesus/Missions/Hebrew Christian movement. Below is a post from Year 1 of Toward Blog, looking at Jews for Jesus' view of Torah observance for Jewish believers in Yeshua:

Jews for Jesus affirms Jewish believers who, for the sake of honoring our heritage and developing a Jewish testimony, choose to give up some of what grace allows to conform to dietary standards and various other Jewish practices. As long as such practices are not presented as incumbent upon others in the body of Messiah, Jewish or Gentile, we hope to be an encouragement to those who desire to uphold their Jewish identity in this way, (from Fall 2003 Havurah, a publication of Jews for Jesus)

The above quote from JFJ's Havurah newsletter was looked at in a previous post. In this post I want to look further at this statement from Jews for Jesus. In their statement above they put forward that a Messianic Jew can observe Torah commands if they choose to give up some of what grace allows to conform to dietary standards and various other Jewish practices. Torah observance is not an "abandoning of grace", but an embracing of obedience to G-d. Observing kashrut, Shabbat, the Festivals and other Torah commands is an act of obeying G-d and faithfulness to the covenant G-d made with all the Jewish People. If we choose not to obey Torah commands we are not "living in grace", but "living in sin". Non-observance of Torah commands is an act of disobeying G-d and not walking in His ways, not a benefit of being a follower of the Messiah. Torah observance like dietary standards and various other Jewish practices is not just shtik to be used for evangelistic outreach (which sadly is the case for Jews for Jesus and other Jewish missions), but it is a matter of obeying G-d and living lives that honor Him. I close with a statement by another Messianic Jew on the topic of grace and sin:

What may we say, then? are we to go on in sin so that there may be more grace?In no way. How may we, who are dead to sin, be living in it any longer?(Romans 6:1-2)Let us live in obedience to G-d and observe His Torah!

IT'S ABOUT TIME!

2007-11-06T09:33:00.002-08:00

Landmark Criminal Suit Against Waqf for Temple Mount Destruction
by Hillel Fendel

(IsraelNN.com) A group of 150 Israeli citizens have filed a class action suit against the Moslem's who run the Temple Mount site for having destroyed Jewish antiquities there.The suit, brought by the Shurat HaDin Israel Law Center, charges that Islamic Waqf officials have engaged in the deliberate destruction of ancient Jewish relics on the Temple Mount. The indictment was filed in the Jerusalem District Court last week, and Shurat Hadin sources say it is the first of its kind in Israeli legal history.
Atty. Darshan-Leitner on Temple Mount suit Can't see audio player above? Click here to listen.
"We are utilizing a seldom-applied section of the penal code," Shurat Hadin director Attorney Nitsana Darshan-Leitner explained, "that allows private citizens to bring a criminal complaint in certain areas. If we win, the Waqf officials could face years in prison.""Why has this never done before," Israel National Radio's Yishai Fleisher asked. "Many things have never been done before," Darshan-Leitner said. "You have to think and be creative in order to do these things. Basically, it’s something that the government should have done... There are certain areas of the penal code in which private citizens are permitted to file a private criminal complaint... The Israeli government has been notified of our suit, and it has 15 days in which to decide whether it wants to pursue it on its own. If not, then we will do so on our own."

She explained that the 150 plaintiffs are acting as representatives of the Jewish People, who are the owners of the Temple Mount and therefore the injured party as a result of the Waqf actions at the holy site. "In 1967," Darshan-Leitner said, "after the Six Day War, Israel made a terrible mistake in allowing the Jordanians to continue to run the Temple Mount. It now continues to be under the custody of the Islamic Trust (Waqf), but is not owned by the Waqf; it is still owned by the Jewish people. King David purchased it, King Solomon built the Temple there, and the Jewish People have longed to return there ever since the Exile began nearly 2,000 years ago. Our regaining it in 1967 was the pinnacle of Zionism. Because it has long been the heritage of the Jewish people, anyone who violates our rights there must be stopped and punished." The suit accuses members of the Waqf of intentionally demolishing priceless Jewish artifacts, including remains from the Second Temple. In recent months, the Waqf brought in bulldozers and heavy digging equipment to dig a long trench on the Mount, supposedly to replace electrical cables. "Israeli archaeologists who sifted through the discarded earth," the Law Center reports, "were shocked to discover a great number of Jewish artifacts brutally trashed by the bulldozers. A wall from the outer courtyard of the Second Temple is believed to have been completely pulverized."
"The recently accelerated destruction is part of a four-decade-long campaign by the Waqf to eradicate all evidence of the historical Jewish connection and claim to the Temple Mount," the suit maintains. Shurat HaDin alleges that the Israeli government, in its "political cowardice," has "consistently refused to undertake any concrete actions to stop the criminal activities of the Waqf."
Darshan-Leitner says, "This private suit is an unprecedented response to the brutal attempt by the Waqf extremists to eradicate any Jewish claim over the Temple Mount. The Waqf leaders belong in prison for their actions, and since Israel's government is refusing to protect Jewish heritage and property, we will prosecute the Waqf ourselves. This legal action is a moral obligation, not only for the Jewish people, but also for the Christian community, which has significant interests in safeguarding the Temple Mount as well."

This is so long in coming, I'm surprised it has taken this long.

Ya'betz (Jabez)

2007-11-05T09:42:00.000-08:00

Ya'betz (Jebez) called on the G-d of Isreal: "Please bless me by enlarging my territory. May your hand be with me! Keep me from harm, so that it will not cause me pain!" G-d granted him his request. Complete Jewish Bible (I Chronicles 4:10)

Such a small prayer with huge rewards! I have prayed this prayer many times in my life with all the same results as Ya'betz. That is why I decided to use that name for my blog. Ya'betz mother said in the verse prior to the prayer that she named him Ya'betz because she bore him in pain!

I have also bore many things through my life in pain... and through the pain of prayer with much travail awesome things have come to pass.

I love G-d with all my heart and soul without Him I am nothing! May you find this journey as exciting as I have!