Peace – Fruit of the Spirit

Peace – Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, PEACE, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

The general internet dictionary defines peace as freedom from disturbance; quiet and tranquility; freedom from or the cessation of war or violence; harmony, concord.

The Merriam-Webster’s dictionary goes on to say: “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; harmony in personal relations; a state or period of mutual concord between governments; a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity; to keep silent or quiet.”

The New Testament Greek word for “peace” is eirene (Strong’s #1515). It is defined as “prosperity, quietness, rest, set at one again.”

The Old Testament Hebrew word for “peace” is shalom. Shalom is more than a greeting, but it wishes a person prosperity, success and happiness.

The blessings of Shalom (Strong’s #7965) include:

1. Peace, quietness, tranquility
2. Salvation and Baptism of the Holy Spirit
3. Rest, Joy, Hope, Faith
4. Love
5. Absence of war
6. Absence of strife and contention
7. Peace in our spirit (rational intellect, the part of us that communes with God)
8. Peace in our soul (mind, will, emotions)
9. Peace with God, especially in covenant relation
10. Peace that surpasses our understanding; peace like a river
11. Unity; concord; harmony (the anointing oil flows with unity)
12. Freedom from confusion and captivity of any kind
13. Success and Blessings (family, children, both material and non-material things)
14. Giving thanks for all your blessings
15. Prosperity; wealth; living debt free; debts cancelled
16. Satiation of God’s goodness
17. Being filled up with the Word of God
18. Possessing the promises of God
19. Completeness, Wholeness
20. Restoration; Rejuvenation; Refreshment; Recreation
21. Contentment
22. Friendship; Friendliness
23. Soundness in mind and physical body; excellent health; wellness
24. Security
25. Welfare, Happiness
26. Nothing missing and nothing broken
27. Safe (in mind, body or estate)
28. Restitution; compensation
29. To walk in favor with God and man
30. God gives His Beloved sleep
31. Days of Heaven upon earth
32. A greeting (“May it be well with you”)
33. Messianic Reign

Jesus took the stripes on His back for the punishment for our peace. His Blood Atonement was enough to forgive sins, give eternal life, heal our bodies, minds and emotions, bring us out of poverty and into abundance, give us peace of mind and peace in our relationships, to give us total shalom.

Jesus tells us in John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

In John 16:33 Jesus goes on to say, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Because Jesus has overcome the world, we can be overcomers as well, and experience that peace in the midst of chaos in this world.

When we are troubled in our minds and emotions, and perplexed and distressed and full of anxiety, the peace of God will overwhelm us to the point where it surpasses our understanding. We won’t be able to understand how we could feel so much peace in the midst of the storm, but His peace is there for us without measure.

Philippians 4:6-8 tells us:

6 Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.

7 And God’s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

8 For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. AMP

The Bible says that God is the author of peace, as opposed to confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).

The Lord is referred to the God of peace (in most cases as a greeting) in Romans 1:7, 15:33, 16:20; 2 Corinthians 1:2, 13:11; Galations 1:3; Ephesians 1:2; Philippians 1:2; 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4; Philemon 3; Revelation 1:4.

Living in peace with others, to the best of our ability, is crucially important in our Christian walk. Hebrews 12:14 says to pursue peace and holiness with all men, which without those things no one will see the Lord.

Our peace can be multiplied, according to 1 Peter 1:2 and 2 Peter 1:2.

Hebrews 11:31 tells us that in the hall of faith, Rahab is commended for receiving the spies with peace. And her whole family was spared. “By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.”

Melchizedek, in Genesis 14 and mentioned again in Hebrews 7:1-4, was a type of Christ, who had no beginning or ending, and has an eternal priesthood, from which Jesus is High Priest of the Melchizedek priesthood. Melchizedek was both a king and priest. He is called the king of peace (Salem means “peace”), and the king of righteousness. (And Jesus is also the King of peace and king of righteousness.)

God’s blessings and anointing rests on unity and being in peace with the brethren.

Psalms 133 says:

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;

3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

In the passage of Matthew 10:34-42, Jesus told us that He did not come to bring peace to the earth, but a sword. What does He mean by this, since He is the Prince of Peace?

One school of thought is that this passage means that He will have no other idols above Himself. Verses 38-39 talks about taking up your cross and following Jesus. Sometimes in family relationships, there is division because of Jesus.

That’s why Paul said in 1 Corinthians 7:15 that light and darkness cannot dwell in unity, and for those who are married to unbelievers to pursue peace to the best of your ability, but at the same time to be willing to let them go if they choose to leave, because God has called us to live in peace.

James said that where there is envy and strife, there is confusion and every demonic work (James 3:16).

When Jesus ministered to people in His earthly ministry, He would say, “Your faith has saved you, go in peace.” After He ministered to the woman with the issue of blood, He told her to go in peace (Mark 5:25-34). After the woman anointed His feet with precious oil, He told her to go in peace (Luke 7:44-50).

Romans 5:1-2 says that we have peace with God by being justified by faith. “Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”

Romans 8:6 says, “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

Romans 14:17 tells us: “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

Peace and edification go hand in hand. Romans 14:19 “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.”

Romans 15:13 says, “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Joy and peace go together.

Jesus pulled down the dividing wall of Jews and Gentiles, thus making them one body, with Jesus as the Chief Cornerstone.

Ephesians 2:14-22 tells us:

14 For He (Jesus) is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;

15 Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

16 And that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the Cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.

18 For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone.

21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. KJV

Ephesians 4:3 says, “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 6:13-18 talks about putting on the armor of God. Verse 15 says to have your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace.

The entire passage says:

Ephesians 6:11-18

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God:

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. KJV

Isaiah 52:7 is a cross reference to Ephesians 6:15. It says:

How beautiful upon the mountains

Are the feet of him who brings good news,

Who proclaims peace,

Who brings glad tidings of good things,

Who proclaims salvation,

Who says to Zion,

“Your God reigns!”

NKJV

The Gospel is the good news of peace.

Jesus (the Messiah) is called the “Prince of Peace” in Isaiah 9:6. It says: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” KJV

Isaiah 9:7 says that His peace shall never end.

Jesus’ Messianic coming is 2-fold. Jesus came to earth the first time as a servant, and to place peace in the HEARTS of people and make a way by the Cross that we can have peace with the Father. You cannot have true world peace until people’s hearts are transformed. Jesus will come a second time to bring peace to this world and will reign in Jerusalem.

Jeremiah 33:6 prophesies:

Behold, [in the future restored Jerusalem] I will lay upon it health and healing, and I will cure them and will reveal to them the abundance of peace (prosperity, security, stability) and truth. AMP

Colossians 3:15 says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 says:

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.

The phrase “peace like a river” is used two times in the Old Testament. Isaiah 48:18; Isaiah 66:12.

Psalms 4:8 says, “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.”

Psalms 29:11 says, “The Lord will give strength unto His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.”

Psalms 34:14 “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.”

Psalms 37:11 “But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”

Psalms 37:37 “Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.”

Psalms 55:18 “He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.”

Psalms 72:7 “In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.”

Peace and righteousness go together. Psalms 85:10 says, “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Also see Isaiah 32:17, which says: “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever.”

Psalms 119:165 says, “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.”

The Bible commands us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Psalms 122:6-9 says:

6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.

7 Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.

8 For my brethren and companions’ sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee.

9 Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy good.

Psalms 128:6 says, “Yea, thou shalt see thy children’s children, and peace upon Israel.”

Wisdom brings peace. Proverbs 3:1-2 says, “My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments. For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.

More is said about how wisdom brings peace to our lives. Proverbs 3:16-18 tells us: “Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.”

In James, it says that the wisdom that comes from above is peaceable, and filled with good fruit (James 3:17).

1 Timothy 2:2 talks about leading a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

Hebrews 12:11 says that no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but it yields the peaceable fruits of righteousness.

Proverbs 11:12 says that a man of understanding, or wisdom, holds his peace. He is not quarrelsome.

Proverbs 16:7 says that when a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

If you want peace of mind, then keep your thoughts on the Lord and His Word. Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”

Isaiah 26:12 says that God will ordain peace for us.

Isaiah 54:13 declares, “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.”

We are led by the Spirit through inward peace, and we go out in joy (Isaiah 55:12).

Isaiah 57:21 says that there is no peace for those who are wicked. Their life is always filled with trouble and strife.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 gives us hope:

11 For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.

12 Then you will call upon Me, and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear and heed you.

13 Then you will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me [as a vital necessity] and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. AMP

Blessings and Benefits of Shalom

Shalom is the Hebrew word for “peace”, and also often used as a greeting “may things go well for you”. May Shalom be yours, especially during this Christmas Season.

The Blessings and Benefits of Shalom (Strong’s Hebrew #7965) include:

1. Peace, quietness, tranquility
2. Salvation and Baptism of the Holy Spirit
3. Rest, Joy, Hope, Faith
4. Love
5. Absence of war
6. Absence of strife and contention
7. Peace in our spirit (rational intellect, the part of us that communes with God)
8. Peace in our soul (mind, will, emotions)
9. Peace with God, especially in covenant relation
10. Peace that surpasses our understanding; peace like a river
11. Unity; concord; harmony (the anointing oil flows with unity in Psalms 133)
12. Freedom from confusion, addictions and captivity of any kind
13. The Lord looses the prisoners
14. Success and Blessings (family, children, grandchildren, houses, cars, land, assets, both material and non-material things)
15. Giving thanks for all your blessings
16. Prosperity; wealth; living debt free; debts cancelled
17. Satiation of God’s goodness
18. Being filled up with the Word of God
19. Possessing the promises of God
20. Completeness, Wholeness
21. Restoration; Rejuvenation; Refreshment; Relaxation; Recreation
22. Contentment
23. Friendship; Friendliness (including friendship with God)
24. Soundness in mind and physical body; excellent health; wellness
25. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation
26. Security
27. Welfare, Happiness
28. Nothing missing and nothing broken
29. Safe (in mind, body or estate)
30. Restitution; compensation
31. To walk in favor with God and man
32. God gives His Beloved sleep
33. Days of Heaven upon earth
34. A greeting (“May it be well with you”)
35. Messianic Reign

Pt. 13 – The Christmas Story (Angels Appear to the Shepherds)

Angels Appear to the Shepherds

Mary had given birth to her firstborn son, Jesus, and used a manger as a crib to lay Him in.

Meanwhile, in the same country there were shepherds out in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone brightly all around them, and they were greatly afraid (Luke 2:8-9).

Then the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign to you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12 KJV).

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude (a countless number) of the heavenly hosts (angels) praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14 KJV)

So it was, when the angelic hosts had gone away from the shepherds into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us!” (Luke 2:15 KJV)

Church history records that when the mass angelic choir appeared to the shepherds in the fields at night, the whole sky lit up like the noonday sun and the singing was heard for miles away by the villagers. That must have been awesome to experience.

All the angels worshiped Jesus at His birth.  Hebrews 1:6 (NKJV) says, “But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: ‘Let all the angels of God worship Him’.”

In the same way in which the angels appeared in the sky to herald the first coming of the Messiah (with loud singing, shouting and praising God), that when Jesus appears in the clouds to catch His Bride away (some call it the rapture, some refer to it as being translated to heaven, while others call it the catching away of the saints), that He will be heralded by the angels and saints.

Gabriel will sound the alarm by blowing a shofar. Then millions of angels will begin blowing trumpets (and I’m sure other musical instruments as well), and the angels and saints will begin rejoicing and praising God as they meet the Lord in the air.

I personally believe that the rapture will not be silent as movies portray—where people suddenly disappear—but the whole world will hear the trumpets blowing, the singing and victorious shouting. Those who are left behind will visibly see the saints who are ready for the rapture, begin to ascend straight up into the air like a rocket into the clouds, in the same manner that Jesus ascended into heaven.

Matthew 24:30-31 (NIV) says, “At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.”

The Son of Man is a name that refers to Jesus.

The four winds are in reference to the four corners of the earth (North, South, East and West). This means that the rapture will be a worldwide event where His elect are caught up to heaven from every part of the world all at the same moment.

In regards to Jesus’ second return—which is a separate event from the rapture—when He comes riding triumphantly on a white horse and touches the Mount of Olives, many Bible theologians believe that the second return will probably take place during the month of Tishri (the seventh month of the Hebrew year during September/October).

During this time of the year is the Feast of Trumpets, followed by the Day of Atonement, and then followed by the Feast of Tabernacles (Jesus tabernacling with us or making His home with us).

The Feast of Tabernacles is also known as the Feast of the ingathering of the harvest. This harvest is not about harvesting crops, but a figurative harvest—a worldwide harvest of souls.

It is important to be ready for Christ’s return. No man knows the day or the hour that Jesus will return—not even the angels, nor the Son of Man (Jesus). Only the Father knows (Mark 13:32).

In the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), five were wise and five were foolish. The wise virgins were prepared when the bridegroom arrived and were ready to enter into the Marriage Supper. They had oil for their lamps.

The five foolish virgins ran out of oil, and while they went to go purchase some more, the Bridegroom came and they were not ready and prepared. They were not able to go in to the Marriage Supper because the door had been shut. Although they knocked, the door was not opened.

Could this parable possibly be saying that when the rapture takes place, that only one group of the Body of Christ will be ready to ascend to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb?

Jesus spoke to Kat Kerr that right now, 80% of Christians would not be ready for the rapture because they are living carnal lives.

It is not enough to just have said an initial prayer of salvation and been water baptized. God is looking for good fruit (the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galations 5:22-23 and John 15) in our lives. He is looking for holiness and walking in the fear of the Lord. We cannot have one foot in the world and another in Christ. He is looking for those who seek to have a close relationship with Him and who love Him.

It is possible to be in the church and even be involved in ministry, and not even be saved. To be saved means that you are a new creature in Christ Jesus—the old is gone and the new has come. To be saved means that you are walking according to God’s Word, not according to the ways of this world. It means a transformation of the heart, with corresponding actions following.

We do not know the exact date that Christ will return. We just know the season. It is important to be ready at all times—not only should the rapture occur in our lifetime, but also because we do not know with positive certainty when we will take our last breath. It’s important to be right with God and to have a clean heart, and a conscience that is free from guile and has been purified by the Blood of the Lamb.

If you need to get right with God, just call out to Him. Confess your sins, and He will be faithful and just to forgive you of all of your sins (1 John 1:9). Ask Him to cleanse your heart and conscience with the Blood of Christ. Invite the Holy Spirit to come and fill you to overflowing and to transform you into Christ’s image. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh.

The Word says to not be deceived, God is not mocked (Galations 6:7). Whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap. He who sows to the carnal nature (fruits of darkness such as hate, jealousy, envy, strife, malice, unkindness, injustice, fraud, selfishness, immorality, corruption) shall reap what they sowed. He who sows to the Spirit (love, joy, peace, goodness, kindness, patience, self-control, faith, gentleness, truth, honesty, integrity, the Golden Rule, fairness, just weights and balances, righteousness) he will reap what he has sowed.

Ask the Lord to bring you into a closer relationship with Him, and that you want to know Him. To know Him is to love Him more and more as the years go by.

In Luke 2:15-20, the shepherds came with haste and found Mary and Joseph in the stable or cave, and the baby lying in a manger.

Now when they had seen the babe, they spread the word concerning what had been told to them concerning this child. All those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

Notice that God sovereignly chose to have the hosts of angels appear to shepherds to announce the birth of Christ. Then the shepherds in turn, told everyone about the good news.

Taking care of sheep was considered to be a lowly job, and shepherds did not have much of a voice in society. They were considered to be less important and of low-ranking status. Yet they were given the honor of seeing and hearing the angels herald the birth of Christ and the honor of announcing to the whole community the birth of the Son of God.

God could have sent His angels to announce the birth of Christ to the elite. The world we live in equates socio-economic status with importance and degree of favor shown. The prominent and wealthy have the most voice in society. This is all based in pride, and God abhors pride.

The Lord is a God of equality. He views everyone with equal importance and value. He shows favor to whomever He chooses. He enjoys raising the needy out of the ash heap and empowering them to prosper. The Lord will often take people who had major setbacks and disadvantages, and raise them up to become very successful. God often chooses those who others think are the least qualified and uses them mightily.

God looks for those who are available to Him—regardless of status or education—and who say “yes” to God.

Healing Scriptures – Old Testament

(Print out these healing Scriptures to read everyday for your healing, as well as health maintenance)

Healing Scriptures – Old Testament

Exodus 15:26 I am the LORD that healeth thee [Jehovah Rapha]. This is the verse where God reveals Himself as Jehovah Rapha (the Lord who heals you). The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and Chaldea. In the original Hebrew text, the Jewish National Name of God “Yahweh or Jehovah” is translated into the English as “LORD” (all caps). The Hebrew word “rapha” means: “healing, cure, mending, stitching up, medicine, physician, repair, to be made whole, to invigorate.”

Exodus 23:25-26 Worship the LORD your God, and His blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you, and none will miscarry or be barren in your land. I will give you a full life span.

Deuteronomy 7:15 And the LORD will remove from you all sickness.

Deuteronomy 28:1-13

1 And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:

2 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.

3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.

4 Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.

5 Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.

6 Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.

7 The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.

8 The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

9 The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.

10 And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee.

11 And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.

12 The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.

13 And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them.

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.

Psalms 30:2 O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.

Psalms 30:5 Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.

Psalms 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalms 42:11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

Psalms 69:32b Your heart shall live (be rejuvenated) that seek God.

Psalms 91:9-11 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation, there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Psalms 91:16 With long life will I satisfy him, and show him My salvation.

Psalms 92:12-15 The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, “The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.”

Psalms 103:2-5 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies. Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Psalms 105:37 He brought them forth [Children of Israel delivered out of Egypt) also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.

Psalms 107:20 He sent his Word, and healed them, and delivered them from destruction.

Psalms 118:17 I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.

Psalms 147:2-3 The LORD builds up Jerusalem; He gathers together the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Proverbs 3:7-8 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

Proverbs 4:20-22 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.

Proverbs 12:18b The tongue of the wise is health.

Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.

Proverbs 13:17b A faithful ambassador is health.

Proverbs 14:30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh.

Proverbs 15:4a The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life.

Proverbs 15:30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.

Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.

Proverbs 18:21 Death and Life is in the power of the tongue.

Isaiah 38:16 You restored me to health and let me live.

Isaiah 53:5 But He (Jesus) was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes [from the scourging and beatings] we are healed.

Isaiah 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.

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.

Isaiah 57:18-19 I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will lead him and restore comfort to him and to his mourners, creating the praise of the lips. Peace, Peace to him who is far and to him who is near, says the LORD, and I will heal him.

Isaiah 58:8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy reward.

Isaiah 58:11 The LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your soul in drought. And strengthen your bones. You shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Isaiah 61:1-3 (xref Luke 4:18-19) The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn. To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees [oaks] of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified.

Isaiah 61:7-8a Instead of your shame you will have a double portion; and instead of humiliation you will shout for joy over your portion. Therefore, you shall possess a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours. For I, the LORD, love justice.

Isaiah 65:24 And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.

Isaiah 66:14 You shall see it, and your heart shall rejoice; your bones shall flourish like new grass.

Jeremiah 1:12 Then the LORD said to me, “You have seen well, for I am ready to perform My word.”

Jeremiah 17:14 Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you a hope and a future.

Jeremiah 30:17 For I will restore health unto thee and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD; because they called thee an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeketh after.

Jeremiah 31:3-4 I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness. Again I will build you and you will be rebuilt … again you will take up your tambourines, and go forth to the dances of the merrymakers.

Jeremiah 33:6 Behold, I will bring you health and cure, and I will cure you, and will reveal unto you the abundance of peace and truth.

Ezekiel 34:16 I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak.

Ezekiel 37:3-10 And He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” So I answered, “O Lord GOD, You know.” Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the Word of the LORD!’ Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live.” Then He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD: “Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these smitten, that they may live.’” So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet. (The breath of God refers to the Holy Spirit who quickens our mortal bodies—Romans 8:11.)

Ezekiel 47:12 (xref Rev 22:1-2) All kinds of fruit trees will grow along the riverbanks. The leaves will never turn brown and fall, and there will always be fruit. There will be a new crop every month—without fail! For they are watered by the river flowing from the Sanctuary. The fruit will be for food and the leaves for medicine.

Joel 3:10 Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’

Nahum 1:9 Affliction will not rise up a second time.

Zechariah 4:6-7 This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.” Who art thou, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a [level] plain. xref Mark 11:23

Malachi 4:2 But unto you that fear My Name shall the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing in His wings.

The word “wings” in Malachi 4:2 is, according to the Hebrew definition, referring to the hem, border, edge of the garment, such as of the priestly robe or the fringes of a prayer shawl.

In the New Testament, Matthew tells of the account in Matthew 9:20-22 of a woman who had an issue of blood (hemorrhaging) for 12 years and had spent all she had on doctors and was not any better. She heard that Jesus was in town. She said to herself: “If I might just touch the hem of His garment, I shall be made whole.” She spoke in faith, then took action and pressed through the crowds. When she made it to Jesus, she touched the hem of His robe or the prayer shawl He was wearing, and when she did, she was instantly healed of her affliction. Jesus felt virtue (healing power) go out of him and asked who touched him. Then the woman told her whole story to Him and all those around her … about how she had suffered with this affliction for 12 years and was only growing worse, she had spent every dime on doctors but was not any better, but that now she was healed and whole through the power of Jesus Christ.

Other passages mention that more people were healed when they touched the hem of Jesus’ garment. See Matthew 14:35-36 and Mark 6:56.

Jesus’ robe signified His Priestly authority. The priestly garment symbolizes a mantle of the Anointing of the Holy Spirit. He is our Great High Priest from the Tribe of Judah in the order of Melchizedek (which is a Heavenly and eternal Priesthood).

The prayer shawl represents being wrapped in all the promises of God that are legally ours through the Covenant we have with God. One of those promises is healing and health.

Part 3 – Zerubbabel – Prophetic Promises That Apply To Us Today

Zerubbabel – Prophetic Promises That Apply To Us Today (Part 3)

I’ve been talking about Zerubbabel, and the exiles leaving their bondage in Babylon, and returning to Jerusalem. Babylon in our lives speaks of areas of captivity and chains. Jesus has come to set the prisoners free, and loose every fetter.

Jerusalem speaks of the place of God’s peace, rest, and His Presence. It’s the place of healing and restoration, beauty and worship. It’s the place of freedom.

Prophetic words were spoken to Zerubbabel and Jeshua, the high priest, through the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. These words from God are powerful and apply to our lives today.

Prophecies Spoken Through Haggai

1. Blessings from God will come when you set your priorities in order.

Famine is broken when priorities are set in order.

Building God’s House is #1, before building your own house. Matthew 6:33 says to seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

In Haggai, Chapter 1, verses 2-11, the people had encountered so much opposition and years of delay in finishing the temple foundation, that they had fallen into a spiritual slumber. They thought that the timing for rebuilding God’s temple was somewhere out in the distant future. But God said that the time is NOW.

The Lord was grieved that they spent 17 years adorning their own houses, yet His House (Temple) was lying in ruins. Most of their energies were spent on personal goals. It’s not that God didn’t want them having nice homes, just as long as He comes first.

Having priorities out of their proper place, resulted in God allowing a drought to come upon the land—a famine of food, wine, oil and fruit.

A famine of food represents a spiritual famine of spiritual bread or manna, the Word of God. It also represents a natural famine resulting in financial lack.

God’s Promise if you put Him first: You will be fed the meat of the Word of God until you are full and want no more. The Lord will increase you financially as you obey His commands to tithe and give offerings, and to seek His kingdom first.

A famine of wine speaks of no joy or gladness. New Wine in the Bible is also symbolic of being filled with the Holy Spirit.

God’s Promise if you put Him first: Your joy and gladness will be restored. Jesus wants to baptize you afresh, or for the first time, in His Holy Spirit. Rivers of living water will flow from your innermost being.

A famine of oil speaks of a lack for the anointing, God’s Presence being distant somewhat.

God’s Promise if you put Him first: The Shekinah glory shall visit you. His glory shall be upon you and in you.

A famine of fruit speaks of a lack of flourishing; lack of productivity; barrenness.

God’s Promise if you put Him first: Barrenness is removed and fruitfulness comes in Jesus’ Name.

Haggai said that they had sown much, yet reaped little.

God’s Promise if you put Him first: Things are turning around. Great harvest is coming from seeds planted long ago. The harvester is overtaking the plowman.

It was as if they earned wages, only to put into pockets that had holes.

God’s Promise if you put Him first: No more financial loss, debts, things breaking down, continual expenditures draining your pocket; there shall be increase and prosperity. God said He would rebuke the devourer for your sake.

2. The Lord is with you … be strong … do not fear (Haggai 1:13; 2:4-5).

When the Lord calls us to do something, we can be assured that He is by our side, with us. We don’t have to be afraid because His Presence is there.

3. “I will fill this temple with Glory” … “The Glory of the latter temple shall be greater than that of the former, saith the Lord” (Haggai 2:7, 9).

God will fill our lives with His Glory, and His Glory seen in us will be a witness to others. Our latter end will be greater than the former years. This promise applies also to our life, ministry, church, and to many marriages. “The latter end shall be more glorious than the former.”

And of course, this prophetic word is speaking of the literal Temple in Jerusalem being the Desire of All Nations (Haggai 2:7). The Glory and Splendor of the latter Temple will be greater than that of the former.

4. In this place, I will give peace, says the LORD of Hosts (Haggai 2:9).

God brings peace to our lives where there was once strife, confusion, sadness or anxiety. There is perfect peace in His Presence, and His paths are the paths of peace (Proverbs 3:17).

5. “The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine, says the LORD of Hosts” (Haggai 2:8).

Abundant supply. No lack. God owns it all. He promised to provide for all our needs. Plus, He gives us the desires of our hearts when we delight in Him. He wants to bless us and cause us to prosper. He wants to bless us so that we can be a blessing to others and to His kingdom (Deuteronomy 28:1-14).

6. Holiness – “Be ye holy, for I am Holy, says the LORD” (Haggai 2:10-19, Leviticus 11:44-45, 1 Peter 1:16).

A lack of holiness resulted in unfruitfulness and a blockage of blessings of God in their lives. A return to holiness brought the full blessings of God. A lack of holiness, and disobedience to God’s commands, results in barrenness in our souls.

Haggai asks the priests this question: “If one of you is carrying a holy sacrifice in his robes and happens to brush against some bread or wine or meat, will it too become holy?”

“No,” the priests replied. “Holiness does not pass to other things that way.”

Then Haggai asked, “But if someone touches a dead person, and so becomes ceremonially impure, and then brushes against something, does it become contaminated?”

And the priests answered, “Yes.”

Haggai then made his meaning clear and spoke the word of the Lord.

“You people are contaminating your sacrifices by living with selfish attitudes and evil hearts—and not only your sacrifices, but everything else that you did as a ‘service’ to me. And so everything you did went wrong. But all is different now because you have begun to build the Temple.

Before, when you expected a twenty-bushel crop, there were only ten. When you came to draw fifty gallons from the olive press, there were only twenty. I rewarded all your labor with rust and mildew and hail. Yet, even so, you refused to return to me, says the Lord.”

Holiness in spirit, soul and body shall result in blessing blockers being removed.

7. From this day I will bless you (Haggai 2:18-19).

But now note this: From today, this 24th day of the month, as the foundation of the Lord’s Temple is finished, and from this day onward, I will bless you. Notice, I am giving you this promise now before you have even begun to rebuild the Temple structure, and before you have harvested your grain, and before the grapes, the figs, the pomegranates, and olives have produced their next crops.

8. God will raise up spiritual Zerubbabels, who will lead God’s people out of Babylon (captivity, bondage, confusion and sin) into healing and freedom.

The Lord will give His Zerubbabels authority in the Spirit, for they are His signet ring, whom He has chosen. (Haggai 2:23). The signet ring placed upon the finger speaks of authority to carry out God’s business.

Prophecies Spoken Through Zechariah

1. Who has despised the day of small beginnings? (Zechariah 4:10)

As we are faithful in the little task or few people God has entrusted into our spiritual care, then God will bring expansion and increase.

2. This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the LORD of Hosts.” (Zechariah 4:6)

It’s not by human strength that we will receive our healing, deliverance, breakthrough, miracles, answers from God—but it’s going to happen by the Power of the Spirit of God!

Whatever situation you are going through in your life in which you need God to intervene … whatever mountain you are facing today, where it says “Zerubbabel”, replace your name there.

Say outloud:

This is the word of the LORD to ________________, saying, “It’s not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts. Who art thou, O great mountain? Before ________________ thou shalt become a level plain.”

3. Who art thou, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a level plain.”

Matthew 21:21-22 Jesus answered and said unto them, “Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, ‘Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea’; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”

What mountains are you facing? Jesus said to speak to our mountains of difficulties and command them to be removed out of our way, and it would obey us. Replace Zerubbabel’s name with your name, and declare outloud.

“Who do you think you are, O great mountain? (and name what your mountain is). I command you, according to Matthew 21:21, to get out of my way in Jesus’ Name! Before _________________ you shall become a flattened plain.”

4. God will enable you by His Grace to finish the task He has called you to do (Zechariah 4:7, 9).

Vs 9: “Zerubbabel laid the foundation of this Temple, and he will complete it.”

Vs 7: “Zerubbabel will finish building this Temple with mighty shouts of thanksgiving for God’s mercy, declaring that all was done by grace alone.”

Shout “Grace, Grace” as you lay the capstone of the foundation.

5. When Satan accuses you before God, Jesus defends you because of His Great Mercy.

Zechariah 3:1-2 Then the Angel showed me (in my vision) Joshua the High Priest standing before the Angel of the Lord; and Satan was there too, at the Angel’s right hand, accusing Joshua of many things.

And the Lord said to Satan, “I reject your accusations, Satan; yes, I, the Lord, for I have decided to be merciful to Jerusalem—I rebuke you. I have decreed mercy to Joshua and his nation; they are like a burning stick pulled out of the fire.”

Revelation 12:10 For the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

6. Jesus removes our filthy garments and clothes us in robes of righteousness. HE is our righteousness. We are not righteous by things we do, but our righteousness is found in Jesus Christ.

Our filthy garments were removed (sin and junk of the past) and we are given clean, white robes of righteousness to wear. The Lord is preparing His Bride to be ready for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

Revelation 19:8 And to her [Bride] was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

Zechariah 3:3-4 Joshua’s clothing was filthy as he stood before the Angel of the Lord. Then the Angel said to the others standing there, “Remove his filthy clothing.”

And turning to Joshua He said, “See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine new clothes.”

Romans 3:22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.

Jeremiah 23:6 In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His Name whereby He shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

7. We are given priestly garments to wear and a priestly turban to crown our head (representing anointing and authority), carrying out our priestly functions.

Zechariah 3:5 Then I said, “Please, could he also have a clean turban on his head?” So they gave him one.

The Lord gives us a crown of beauty where there was once ashes (Isaiah 61:3), and we are like a royal diadem in His Hands (Isaiah 62:3).

A crown is for beauty, honor, royalty, and signifies position. Our position is that of spiritual priests unto God, offering spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter 2:5,9; Revelation 1:6).

We are royal heirs of God.

There are various crowns that believers will receive as rewards.

Crown of Life (James 1:12) – “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” Revelation 2:10b “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

Crown of Righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8) – “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Crown of Glory (1 Peter 5:2-4) – “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.”

Crown of Splendor (Isaiah 62:3 NIV) – “Thou shalt also be a crown of splendor in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.”

Crown of Rejoicing (1 Thessalonians 2:19) – “For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?”

Crown of Beauty (Isaiah 61:3 NIV) – “To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.”

8. We have been given spiritual access to God’s Throne—we can boldly approach the Father through Jesus Christ, and our prayers and worship ascends to Him.

Zechariah 3:7 “The Lord Almighty declares: ‘If you will follow the paths I set for you and do all I tell you to, then I will put you in charge of my Temple, to keep it holy; and I will let you walk in and out of My Presence with these angels.’”

It’s also possible to be granted literal access to Heaven’s Throneroom, where you are there in person through Heavenly visitations (whether caught up in or out of the body) or through visions.

It seems as if Jeshua, the High Priest, was being given access to literally, whether caught up in person or through a vision, go in and out of God’s Throneroom. It seems as if holiness, complete obedience, and worship is the key.

You shall walk in and out of My Throneroom with the angels. You shall have Throneroom encounters, angelic visitations, visions and prophetic dreams.

Part 3 – Zerubbabel – Prophetic Promises That Apply To Us Today (www.kathleendeniseriley.blogspot.com)

Can a Christian Go To Hell?

Can a Christian Go To Hell?

A Christian’s salvation is eternally secure as long as he or she does the will of the Father and lives in holiness, and bears good fruit in their lives.

Matthew 7:21 says, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.”

Hebrews 12:14 says, “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”

Some Christians have forfeited their eternal security in heaven by living a lifestyle of disobedience and lawlessness. Some examples include:

1. Not walking in love; hatred; prejudice; murder; malice
2. Abuse of any kind, and causing strife and discord
3. Bitterness (which defiles many) and unforgiveness
4. Any form of witchcraft, sorcery, horoscopes, etc.
5. Any form of sexual immorality, including porn addiction
6. Embezzlement, stealing, corruption, lying, deceit
7. Pastors and leaders leading the flock astray through their teachings or being bad examples
8. Demonstrating irreverence (through words and deeds) to the Holy Spirit and His Anointing and Anointed Ones
9. Pride and rebellion
10. Lifestyle of drunkenness, gambling, carousing, vices

The Lord said in His Word that those who practice such things cannot inherit the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God has a two-fold definition: 1. God’s system of doing things  2. Heaven.

Revelation 22:14-15 talks about those who will want to get into heaven, but the gates will be closed for them and they won’t be able to enter in.

Revelation 22:14-15 says, “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.

Galatians 5:19-25 gives examples of the works of the flesh, and then says that they which live in such a way cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Then it lists the fruits of the Spirit, and encourages us as Believers to walk in the Spirit.

Galatians 5:19-26

19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,

20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,

21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

The thing that the majority of Christians struggle with is offense. People hurt you and did you wrong. Then it leads to anger, resentment, bitterness and unforgiveness.

In Matthew 18:21-35 Jesus tells us the story of the man who had an enormous debt and could not pay it back. He was facing prison time if he didn’t pay back the debt, and his children taken as slaves. He begged for mercy and the creditor had pity for him and canceled the debt owed.

However, there was a person who owed this man (who was forgiven of much) a very small debt and had no way to pay it off. The man who was forgiven of much had no mercy on the man who owed him a small debt and had the person put in prison. When the creditor found out about this man’s hypocrisy (he was forgiven of much, but failed to forgive someone else for something of lesser debt), he was filled with wrath. He had the man put in prison and turned over to the torturers.

When we fail to forgive others, then God cannot forgive us. And we need forgiveness in order to enter into Heaven, because we as Believers miss the mark quite often and need God’s grace. There are many Christians in Outer Darkness (a section of hell) today that are there due to unforgiveness and hatred.

The torturers speak of demons tormenting people. Usually offense is the door in which demons enter people’s lives to torment them. Also, every time people view internet porn, it releases scores of hideous demons into their lives and home, and these demons wreak havoc.

Strife in the household, church or work environment is another way demons wreak havoc, and the sheep are scattered.

In the Apostle John’s writings, his three key words he uses the most often are: love, life and light. These words are interconnected. If you walk in one, you will walk in all three.

John says that if we claim to love God, yet hate our brother, then we lie and the truth is not in us. He also says that those who do not walk in love are in the darkness, and cannot inherit eternal life.

For years I struggled with offense, anger, bitterness and unforgiveness towards some family members who had abused me for around 21 years. God gave me warnings through dreams that I was in trouble and headed for Outer Darkness in hell if I died at that time.

I had to turn the pain over to the Lord, and ask Him to put love in my heart and help me to forgive. For me, it’s been a process of healing that has taken many years. When people hurt me, I tend to internalize it, and I’m learning how to let go and turn people over to the Lord.

If you have a root of bitterness in your heart, the Word says it defiles people. However, the Holy Spirit can remove all bitterness from your soul and fill you with His love and compassion. No one is worth going to hell over. Let go of the offense. If not for their sake, do it to make sure you go to Heaven someday.

Years ago I heard the true story of the pastor in Africa who had gotten in an argument with his wife one morning, and then later on that day was killed in a car crash.

He talked about how he went to hell for 2 or 3 days. He saw fellow pastors there, and was shocked because he thought they were in heaven. One was there for stealing the tithes and offerings, and embezzlement. Others were there for adultery, not walking in love, failing to teach people the whole counsel of God and for other reasons. This pastor was there for being abusive to his wife.

After he was in hell for 2 or 3 days, he was transferred to heaven, and shared how glorious it was.

Meanwhile, after he was killed his wife held on to the Scripture in Hebrews 11:35 that says that women received their dead raised to life again. She, along with others, prayed and believed that he would come back to life. His body was even partially embalmed.

Where they live, there was a Rinehard Bonnke meeting going on. They took his body to the meeting, believing that he would be raised to life. They took him in the casket to the basement while the meetings were in session. His wife and brothers in the Lord were interceding for his rising from the dead. He did come back to life. And now he shares his testimony and warns Christians, and especially pastors and leaders, of the reality of hell if you don’t walk in holiness. Pastors, teachers and leaders are held in stricter judgment than others in the Body of Christ.

In Matthew 25:31-46 Jesus tells us the parable of the children of the kingdom. (The children of the kingdom are referring to Believers in Christ.) Some were cast into outer darkness and everlasting fire, while others received their reward and were granted to enter into Heaven. Jesus said that if you did it (ministered to) the least of these His brethren, you’ve done it unto Him. So therefore, there is a correlation between our works to help others, and receiving eternal life. We are not saved by works, but created UNTO good works (Ephesians 2:10).

In the parables right before this one in Matthew 25:1-30, are the five wise virgins and the five foolish virgins. A virgin speaks of the Body of Christ, chaste like a virgin awaiting her bridegroom. Five of them made it into heaven, and five were turned away because when the Bridegroom came, they were unprepared.

Then there is the parable of servants given talents. All of the servants, except for one, invested their talents and had more to present at the end of their lives. They heard the words from Jesus: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. You were made ruler over a few things, now you will be ruler over many things.”

A talent refers to something we are capable of doing, a natural gifting God gives to us. He wants us to develop and use our gifts, and to end up at the end of our lives with even more gifts.

This one servant was given one talent, but he was afraid and buried it in the ground. When the Master came, he gave the talent back to the Master, but he had done nothing with his talent, nor had he invested it. He could of at least put it into a savings account to earn interest. This servant was called an unprofitable servant, and his talent was taken from him and given to the one who had ten talents, plus he was cast into outer darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth.

These are strong words Jesus spoke, but they are eternal realities.

John 15 talks about abiding in the Vine. Jesus is the Vine and we are the branches. If we abide in Him, and He abides in us, then we will bear much fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing. We can live fruitful lives if we will abide in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Also, abide in the Word of God, which renews the mind, transforms the soul, fills the hungry soul, and is like medicine.

Back to the subject of love, John said in 1 John 3:14-15:

“We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”

It’s time to take an inventory of our soul. We need to ask God to highlight to us if there is any iniquity in our lives, so that we can have an opportunity to repent of it while we still have time on this earth.

Just pray this simple prayer, and begin to seek God with all of your heart.

“Dear Father God,

I come to Your Throne in the Name of Jesus. Show me if there is sin and iniquity in my life, and give me the grace to repent of it and forsake it. I am aware of this sin in my life _______ (and tell it to God what the sin is), and I need Your help to overcome it. I want to live for You. I want to spend eternity with You and my loved ones in Heaven. I want to get right with You. Lord Jesus, please come into my heart and forgive every sin. Wash me clean by Your Blood. I receive your forgiveness. Fill me with Your love and grace, and empower me to forgive others who have hurt me. I give You my whole heart. Sweet Holy Spirit, please fill me afresh with Your Presence. I need You in my life like never before.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen”

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