Within the last 5 years or so, there has been an influx of “CREATIVES” groups sprouting up within the church.  Has anyone else noticed that?  At first, I was annoyed by them as they seemed to be the newest church fad that puffed up some people while excluded others.  To me these groups seemed to suggest that certain gifted people in the Arts were more important than others.  Perhaps it was the first creative group I became aware of that produced these negative connotations in my mind. 

Or perhaps it’s that these groups overused the word “Creatives” that bugged me so much.  My personal belief is that since we’re all created in God’s image, and His first introduction to us is as Creator; therefore, we all have a certain amount of creativity to use in our daily lives, in our professions, in our worship, etc. 

And this is absolutely true!

However, a year or so ago, my viewpoint regarding these groups began to deviate from my initial disapproval.  The Holy Spirit reminded me of and began to consistently put before me specific scriptures that speak directly to God’s anointing on artisans and craftsmen (aka ‘creatives’). 

Steadily and prayerfully, my perspective began to change quite significantly regarding these groups as something more than just the newest church trend. I started to wonder if God was up to something in the spirit realm.

Things that happen in the spirit realm always manifest in the natural. Always! This means that God prepares the natural to be able to carry/hold/receive the supernatural. 

God anoints and appoints artisans and craftsmen…

There are three times in scripture in which God clearly anointed and appointed artisans and craftsmen.  The first was when God gave Moses explicit directions for building the Tabernacle (aka the Tent of the Meeting or Portable Temple)(Exodus 31:1-11).  The second was the building of King Solomon’s Temple (1 Chron 22).  The third was the rebuilding of the first Temple (eventually named Herod’s Temple) financed by the Persian government and overseen by the Jewish priests and Levites (Ezra 3:8-11). 

These three places had one obvious and primary thing in common that served several purposes. They were orchestrated and designed by God to be His dwelling place.

• The place where sacrifices and offerings were to be made and received
• The place where God would give His children direction
• The place where atonement for sin was to be made
• And the place where God’s people would gather for the prophetic yearly Holy Days and feasts

As such, God was very particular with His instructions.  This place was where God related to His children and where His children related to Him. This was where God promised to meet with them (Exodus 25:22; Numbers 9:15-23).

On His terms!!!

God was extremely elaborate in the details of all three Holy constructions, and He expected His instructions to be followed precisely (Exodus 25:8). Put it this way… the initial directives took up seven chapters of the Bible (Exodus 25-31). From the Ark of the Covenant >>to the table >>to the lamp stand >>to the curtains >>to the frames >>to each of the entryways >>to the artwork >>to the altar >>to the Mercy Seat >>to the candlesticks >>to the embroidery of the Priests’ clothes >>etc… Details included exact measurements, specific types of wood, precise colors of materials, various kinds of stones, gems and precious metals, and the perfect position for everything including the temple itself. 

God was equally thorough in the delivery and reception of the sacrifices and offerings. He was unmistakably meticulous regarding the worship, the fire, the incense.  So much so, that Aaron’s two oldest sons died for offering foreign fire when God’s glory came down (Leviticus 10:1-2).  In other words, they weren’t careful to follow God’s directives of how to worship Him.

At this point, you might wonder what these Old Testament scenarios have to do with the creative cohorts of today. I believe the Biblical anointing of the artisans and craftsmen serve the same purpose for these inspired groups of today… To usher in the Presence of God.  

Let’s dive deeper, shall we…

Today’s Temple…

Jeshua (Jesus) fulfills absolutely every prophesy regarding the Jewish Messiah.  Not only did He become our High Priest, but He fulfilled the requirements of the firstborn Passover Lamb of God found to be without spot or blemish.  He then became the final sacrifice as He willingly offered up His body as atonement for all of our sins once and for all.  He truly is quite literally our EVERYTHING!!  Praise God!!! 

But that’s not all that His life, death and resurrection did!  The veil was torn from top to bottom of God’s dwelling place, thus signifying direct access to Father God through Christ.  All of this made a way for what the Father had always desired …intimate one-on-one relationship with His children.  Jesus made that possible! This means that, through Him, we now have access to the Spirit of the Living God.  Jesus’s sacrifice made a way for our bodies to become the Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19).  We can now go directly to the Father with no middleman or building (Heb 7:23-28)!!  Jesus is that middleman and we are that building!

Personally, I believe this is perhaps the greatest gift that His beautiful sacrifice gave us.  Think about it… the Creator of the universe now dwells inside of us.  We now have the ability to carry the same Power that raised Jesus from the dead (Rom 8:11; Eph 1:19-20).  Realizing the depth of all that Christ did on that cross makes me want to leap for joy.  If you take just a moment to truly ruminate on this, I believe you will feel likewise.  God is so very good to us! 

Seriously… take a moment to consider and rejoice.

Shekinah Glory – visible manifestation of God’s Presence on earth…

Though the Old Testament Tabernacle and Temple were where God dwelt and related to His children via detailed rituals; the actual recorded physical Presence of God (His Shekinah) only manifested a few times in scripture.  

This word (Shekinah) describes the visible manifestation of God on the earth, whose divine presence was portrayed through a natural occurrence.  God’s glory manifested as a cloud that surrounded and covered Mount Sinai as He gave Moses the Ten Commandments (the Law).  A similar manifestation came after the building of, both, the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34) and Solomon’s Temple (2 Chron 7:1).  Remember that all of these were where God dwelt and promised to meet and speak to His people (Exodus 25:22).

Interestingly, after the destruction of Solomon’s Temple, sacrifices and offerings ceased until the rebuilding of Herod’s Temple.  This means that God’s divine presence ceased as well.  In fact, there is no record of God’s Shekinah ever filling the rebuilt temple or anything after.

That is… until Jesus. 

Jesus is Shekinah –the visible manifestation of God’s dwelling with us…

We see God’s glory residing upon Mary while she was pregnant with Jesus (Zechariah 2:5 & Luke 1:35).  We also see it when the angels revealed His birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:9), His baptism (Matt 3:16) and His ascension to heaven (Acts 1:9). Jesus is the New Testament manifestation of God dwelling with us (Matt 1:23).

Continue to keep in mind that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit.  Those of us who unite our soul and spirit with Jesus literally house the Glory of God.  God dwells in us!

Even still, just as with the Old Testament structural dwelling places of God (the Tabernacle and Temple), there have been few instances where Shekinah Glory completely consumed the New Testament Temple (collaboratively, our united bodies). I would venture to say that most of us have never fully experienced His Shekinah.  And even those who believe they have (myself included), likely only experienced small doses… sort of like the children of Israel at the bottom of the mountain who heard God’s voice and witnessed the cloud, but their hearts were unable to fully receive all that Moses had experienced (Exodus 20:18-21).  I believe the complete manifestation of that glory cloud is on its way.

It is my heart’s desire to experience ALL of it.  I want to know ALL OF IT!  And I believe I will! We will!!  Soon and very soon, we are going to see the King in ALL of His Glory! 

Anointed and appointed for such a time as this…

Not only is God preparing the hearts of His people to be able to fully receive His Shekinah, but I believe He is (and has been) anointing and appointing Creatives in this very hour for such a time as this.

Check it out…

As with Solomon’s Temple, everything ceased with the destruction of Herod’s Temple shortly after Christ’s death and resurrection – just as Jesus had prophesied (Matthew 24:1-2; Mark 13:1-2; Luke 21:5-6).   That’s because Jesus fulfilled every prophesy surrounding the temple… the sacrifice, the mercy, the direction, the atonement, the Holy Days, etc.  Every. Single. Prophecy.

The Third Temple…

Would it surprise you to know that a physical Third Temple was prophesied and is currently underway in Jerusalem?  This is where Messiah (Jesus) will be ushered in and seated upon the Throne (Rev 21).  As with everything surrounding Israel and Biblical prophesies, they tend to take on both literal and figurative manifestations as they are fulfilled.

This leads me to the main point of this article…

Preparation for God’s Shekinah began with the artisans (the Creatives) in the Old Testament; and, likewise, I believe it begins with them today.  At the risk of being redundant… God is anointing ‘creatives’ for something HUGE that’s about to take place supernaturally!! 

I believe we are about to know God’s Shekinah in a new and mighty way.  In the temple.  Above the temple. Around the temple.  Throughout the temple.  WE ARE THE TEMPLE! 

Praise God!  Are you excited yet?

GOD’S SHEKINAH is being ushered in; and FULL BLOWN REVIVAL IS ABOUT TO TAKE PLACE WHERE I BELIEVE WE WILL GET TO EXPERIENCE ALL OF IT!!

Selah…

This is wonderful! But I also believe that like the OT Creatives, it is especially important to pay attention to His Way of doing things.  So how do we do that?

‘Talented’ doesn’t necessarily equate with ‘anointed’…

At this point, something important to reflect on is that there have always been gifted and skilled artists outside of these special times of anointing.  In fact, during the very same moment that God was revealing those He had anointed and appointed to build the Tabernacle, the Israelites were skillfully crafting and erecting a beautiful golden calf and offering sacrifices to it in the name of Yehovah (the LORD)(Exodus 32:1-6). 

In other words, they were tired of waiting on Moses (and on God, for that matter), so they concocted a ‘god’ they could more easily control.  On their terms!  They molded and shaped what seemed good to them. 

Ironically, out of cultural peer pressure, Aaron (who was appointed by God alongside Moses to co-lead Israel out of Egypt) fell right in line with the Israelites and even led the charge.  Does this scenario sound a little familiar with many of today’s appointed leaders? Three things should be carefully considered…

1. Your talent doesn’t automatically mean God’s anointing is upon you.
2. It is always man’s choice how to use the gifts God has given him.
3. Even the anointed (Aaron) can fall out of line with God’s will…especially when fear (under the guise of conformity) of man takes over.

The difference between the two types of creative groups… 

It is clear that both groups were talented! 

The self-appointed creatives at the bottom of the mountain used their natural gifts to worship an image of the LORD as they saw fit; as their Egyptian culture had previously dictated.  They thoughtlessly followed the traditions of men of their day and intertwined a little paganism with their corporate worship of God.  In the process, they angered God so much that He almost completely destroyed them all right then and there.

Whereas the anointed creatives were chosen by a living God to create a prophetic place and atmosphere of worship (Deut 12:4, 13-14).  They followed and obeyed God’s incredibly detailed directives rather than their own cultural understanding of that which seemed right in their own eyes (Proverbs 16:2; 21:2).  This resulted in God’s manifest Presence ushered in as His glory filled the temple.

Caution for creatives and/or churches with creatives groups…

Be cognitive of the temptation to build your own proverbial golden calf!  Take care to examine whether or not you are creating what you think is right and holy in your own eyes.  Remember that God is (and always has been) amazingly detailed and meticulous in His directives.

This includes your projects, your crafts, your talents, etc.

The best way to ensure you are discerning His desire over following your own compass is to spend daily intimate time with Him. Seek His will and specific guidelines for what and how to create every step of the way. Regardless of how accomplished you become in your craft, make a conscious effort to consistently partner with Him and ask Him questions like…

• Should I write that book? What is the title?
• What image should I paint?  Should I use oil, acrylic or water color? 
• Would oak or pine be best for this piece of furniture? 
• Which jewels should I use for this necklace? 
• What rhythm, stanza, etc., is best for this poem or spoken word? 
• How should the next verse in the song go?  What about the chorus?
• Which colors would You like to see in these garments?
• Etc…

Search me and know me…

Check yourself ‘periodically’ to make sure you aren’t idolizing your talent or your creation. The most reliable way to know your heart motive is to ask the Holy Spirit to search you and know you (Psalm 139:23). Checking in with Him will always reveal our heart motive. Our ways almost always seem good in our own eyes (Proverbs 16:2; 21:2). You may think your creation is good, but the Holy Spirit might show you something else. Hint… He usually looks at the heart motive. You must be willing to receive Truth from the Him, and be flexible enough to change plans. A few helpful questions to reflect upon regarding the heart motive behind your creation are as follows…

• Is the motive to bring glory to God?  Or is it to bring glory to myself? 
• Do my thoughts tend to revolve around how to get man’s recognition and approval (ie…, how many people are following me and how many likes will this creation get on social media)? 
• Does my motive imitate/mirror worldview ideologies and secular relevance over Biblical values and righteousness?

The reason I highlighted ‘periodically’ above is because we can often start out with right heart motives, but then slowly gravitate toward self-centered, man-pleasing, or culturally-provoked intentions.  It is very easy to fall into the trap of taking credit or seeking acknowledgement for the work God has done in and through us.

Finally…

Creatives, as you move forward in preparing for God’s Shekinah Glory, be thoughtful, diligent, obedient, and expectant.  For you were anointed and appointed for such a time as this! 

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I had a dream early Friday morning…

I was playing Chess with someone I know (for the purpose of this blog, let’s call him John).  Early in the game as I was strategizing my next move, he suddenly swoops in and grabs 3 or 4 of my primary pieces and said, “Game over!”  He was adamant that the game was over and that he had figured out every possible move that could be made.  For a moment, I believed him and thought that maybe he was correct.  Only for a moment though.

Dumbfounded, but giving him the benefit of the doubt, I attempted to figure out what had happened. Did I miss something?  I tried to remember where the pieces were that he had taken and to understand his reasoning for taking them.  But for the life of me, I simply couldn’t make sense of this unwarranted move.

Then I realized something…

My King and Queen were still safely tucked away in their spots behind a few primary game pieces.  I argued with John and told him it was impossible for him to have anticipated every move I would make; and, therefore, he had no right to take those pieces.  I reminded him that he had never even called “Check” much less “Check Mate!” 

Still, he remained convinced the game was over. It then dawned on me that he didn’t know the game very well.  I woke up angrily trying every possible way to get him to comprehend that his move was illegitimate and that the game was, in fact, still in play.

When I dream…

Usually when I have random dreams like this, I immediately pray for the person in the dream as I seek God for the interpretation.  Though I hadn’t spoken with John in quite some time, I do know that he suffered blow after blow this past year and beyond… with loss of a job, a bitter child custody battle, unfair treatment from the courts, etc.  Concerned that his mindset might be that of a “Game Over” mentality, I began to intercede profoundly for him.  I prayed that he wouldn’t do anything stupid in despair, and I asked God to comfort and encourage him.  I prayed a hedge of protection over him and his loved ones.  Every possible way I could think of to pray over him, I prayed. 

After I finished interceding on his behalf, I got up, went to the bathroom, then back to bed (as it was still the wee hours of the morning).  Knowing dream interpretations are rarely what we think, I whispered a final petition to the Lord before drifting back off to sleep, “If there’s another reason for the dream, please reveal it.”

Something you must understand about me is that I’m not one who generally remembers dreams.  Even when I wake up to them, I often have difficulty remembering the details.  On the rare occasion that I actually do remember a dream, I consider it a pretty good indicator that it came from God.  So you can imagine my surprise when I woke up the second time, and not only did I remember the Chess dream, but I also had an extremely clear interpretation of it.

The Interpretation…

Concerning current events, I feel like God had laid out the scene to basically reassure me that the GAME’S NOT OVER!  The King (Jesus) and Queen (the bride…aka, the church) are still in position; exactly where they’re supposed to be; in the very capable Hands of the Master Chess Player. 

Though His opponent is very persuasive in making the world think the game is over, the truth of the matter is he doesn’t know the game as well as he thinks he does.  The enemy has manipulated the pieces, circumstances, and people to make lies appear true, which has caused many to become distraught. 

Believers have leaned unto their own understanding, their own intellect and their own pride.  This has caused many to question and doubt God, as well as His anointed.  Some are angrily trying to defend the logic/truth of the game while others are coming into alignment with the lying spirit of the world.  The result is a lot of ridiculing, belittling, and/or demonizing one another.  There is great division!

I don’t usually publish my dreams, but I believe this is one the Lord wants me to share as encouragement to the body of Christ in this hour.  Please continue to trust God!  The game’s not over!  God, and God alone (not man), will get ALL THE GLORY FOR HIS NEXT MOVE!!  Trust Him!!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
   and lean not on your own understanding

Prov 3:5

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When my husband left me with four children for another woman, I was devastated. The betrayal was almost too much to bear.  On my back porch one night when the children were asleep, I cried out to God in my anger, in my heartache, in my pain, in my despair, and I asked Him, “How could he do this to me? To us?”

In between sobs, I heard a still small voice say, “Forgive him.”

When I objected, the Lord whispered softly, “Forgive him if you wish to be forgiven for your sins against me.”

I argued, “But, Lord, I’ve never cheated on You. You don’t know how this feels.”

Immediately, I heard in my spirit, “Oh really? Every time you chose to watch tv when I’ve beckoned you to come spend time with me, you cheated. Every time you chose to run to a friend with your problem instead of first coming to me, you cheated. Every time you desired and sought after love and validation in other places, you cheated. You love your husband, but I am Love.  My very being is LOVE!  Therefore, I know the feeling of pain and betrayal from your adultery even more than you do from his.”

Next thing you know, I was on my knees weeping and repenting for my adultery against my heavenly Husband (2 Cor 11:2), the One who is Love (1 John 4:8), the One who took my place on that cross even though He knew I would break His heart thousands of times. Needless to say, when I truly recognized my own sin of adultery against the Lover of my soul (Song of Solomon 6:3), it made it a little easier to choose to forgive my ex-husband.

Did you notice that I said “choose”? Choosing to do so is the first step in being able to completely forgive. Jesus is so good to us in that He works it in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13). Not only did He die for us, but His death made a way for the Helper (the Holy Spirit) to walk with us and help us to walk in righteousness (John 16:7). But first we must CHOOSE to walk in it. 

Who do you need to forgive? Ask God to reveal or bring to remembrance any sin that you may have committed against Him or against others. When He shows you, confess your trespass, choose to forgive your trespasser (Matthew 6:12), then ask for the Helper’s help to completely forgive. Please know that if you expect forgiveness from your Father, then you must also be willing to forgive those who have sinned against you.

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Photo by Christian Fregnan on Unsplash

The post Unforgiven appeared first on Soaring Revelations.

When George Floyd called out for his mama

Before I begin this article, I ask the Lord to search me and know me and reveal anything displeasing to Him in my heart; that my motive remain pure.  I pray that He help me stay humble as He removes any and all pride.  I pray for the words; for His words; that He would reveal His heart and create unity through those words.  I, hereby, surrender my will, my words, my heart, my mind, my everything to Him.

As you read this, I pray the same over you.  I ask that you read with an open heart and a willing spirit, ready to receive whatever it is that God may wish to do in you through this article.

When this type of injustice happens, I feel helpless and hopeless, and I know many feel the same.  Obviously what we’ve been doing thus far in America or in the church hasn’t been working.  This blog is my attempt to do something different in hopes of bringing about some sort of unity amidst this great divide.  My heart is to try to understand one side while at the same time bring about understanding of the other side.  My hope is to maybe deflect some hostility and hatred, and reveal a common enemy of ALL.  I wish to take a look at the times we live in, to better prepare God’s children to be ready for trials still yet to come.  Ultimately, I seek to break the power of division that keeps creeping up in the church and in the world.

I will start by telling you what I, a white woman, see in this instance.  Next I will acknowledge and empathize with what I believe the black community sees.  I will tell you of some of my experiences with similar kinds of injustices.  I will offer up other examples of police brutality, along with possible suggestions for change within the police force.  I will ask a question about racism and discuss my own personal experiences on the topic.  I will try to touch on all perspectives regarding these issues, as I understand them.  Then I will offer up spiritual suggestions for what I believe the church’s response should be.

What I see…

I see a cop who completely ignored and disregarded the pleas of a dying man. A man that he is quite literally killing with his knee resting heavily on his neck and suffocating him. A man who seemed to be otherwise fully cooperative. I don’t understand why this was necessary. Over ten minutes restrained like this!! Like why? Why? WHY???  How can people’s hearts be so hardened to disregard human life? To be without empathy or compassion?  And why is the cop looking into the camera like that, knowing he’s being recorded?  That’s suspicious to me.  Who’s filming anyway?  And why didn’t the other cops pay attention to George’s pleas and/or push Officer Chauvin off.   Why didn’t anyone attempt to remove the officer’s knee from his neck?  I don’t understand any of it.  And, yes, it angers me greatly and makes me weep, especially upon hearing him cry out for his mom.

These were my initial thoughts and emotions.

My next response was one of anxiety rising up in the pit of my stomach as I foresaw exactly where this was about to go.  The backlash.  The retaliation.  The angry memes and posts.  The rioting and looting.  Etc.  Here we go… Racial tension rears its ugly head once again.

At this point, in past racial uprisings, my subconscious would admittedly go into defense mode.  Sadly, this would often only end up making me appear apathetic, which would in turn alienate me from dear friends.  Therefore, I began to simply try avoiding social media altogether during these times.  However, as stated in the first paragraph, this blog is my feeble attempt to try something different.  The back and forth “flesh” responses from all sides are simply not working.  Attaching scripture and religious spins in order to justify either side is not working.  In fact, the more each side screams to be heard, the worse things seem to get for everyone.  In the process, I think it also hurts the heart of God as His children fall deeper into the trap of greater division.

What I believe the black community sees…

The black community instantly sees racism.  A white cop in a position of authority heavily resting his knee on a black man’s neck and killing him while the other white cops do nothing.  Of course it’s because of racism!  No ifs, ands, or buts about it.  Furthermore, since this heinous act was very clearly racist, all other kinds of emotions automatically rise up.  Fear for sons, husbands, fathers, and friends being deliberately targeted because of the color of their skin.  Anger towards all white people who can’t seem to see what is so clearly obvious.  Memories of their own personal racial mistreatment come to the forefront of their minds.  Though many try to subdue the hatred that’s now rising up in their spirits, the anguish they feel is exhausting and tiresome.  Anxiety strikes the pits of their stomachs as they have to drive out to the country for work, or maybe even through the city at night.  Unfortunately, the residue of slavery and the evils that took place during the Civil Rights era are constantly lingering in their minds.  Could America go back to that?

Though I will never know what it’s like to be black, I have dealt with my own fair share of discrimination, genderism and racism.  I have also heard and listened to horror stories from various friends throughout my life.  Even still, I don’t pretend to fully understand all their troubles in America and abroad.

My personal experience with cops…

I have experienced god-complex, power-tripping police unfairness and injustice in many instances.  So please understand, this issue angers me more than you may know. One of the most difficult instances was when cops strategically set up my teenage son for a drug bust; conspired with the bail bondsman to try to arrest him before bond was posted in order to get higher “commission”; forced him to speak to them without a lawyer; refused to allow me to see him for hours;  then threatened that the only way for him to avoid severe charges was to inform on his friends, which is how they had set him up in the first place by using his best friend to entrap him; when my son refused to snitch and set up his friends, he was charged to the fullest extent with added charges. Gratefully, my son lived through that dark time.

George Floyd did not.

When I moved to Texas, I nervously left my other son in St. Louis to finish out school and start his internship.  My primary angst in leaving him was due to a sociopathic cop that I knew lived around the corner from my son.  Fearful imaginations of my son having some sort of interaction with that cop plagued me.  The ‘what-ifs’ forcefully invaded my mind regularly.  So much so, that during that first year, I made my 20-year old son call or text me every night to let me know he had arrived safely at home.

Other examples of police brutality…

I’ve also seen various videos over the years of outrageous police misconduct, brutality, and outright murder…of all races. True that many involved white on black police brutality, but there were also many that were white on white, black on white and black on black. YouTube is filled with dozens of such videos. Off the cuff, though, there are a few that stick out in my mind…

1. James Reiner: A man was racing to get his pregnant wife to the hospital. He was pulled over and brutally thrown to the ground and arrested while the wife suffered with contractions and confusion. The ambulance had to come get her while her husband went to jail. I was outraged because back in the day, the cop would’ve offered to escort them to the hospital.There are actually quite a few of these instances.
2. Daniel Shaver: A drunk man in a hotel was confused by the police officer’s inconsistent instructions but very clearly tried to comply.  Nonetheless, he was shot to death while on his knees begging for his life.  Oooh, this one infuriated me more than any other.
3. Tony Timpa: This instance is almost identical to what happened to George Floyd.  The officers are joking around and even teased, “I hope I didn’t kill him,” as the ambulance drove him away.  Charges were dismissed against the officers and they were back to work the following day.

All three of these men were white.

I share these examples to show that these types of police brutality and injustices happen to all races.  Regardless of race, they are all unjust and most definitely should not be ignored.  I share these other injustices to show how they often go unnoticed because they simply don’t fit the divisive narrative that a very real enemy wishes to create.  More importantly, for the purpose of this blog, I share these examples to hopefully ease my black brothers and sisters pain by showing them they are not alone.

Possible suggestions to fix the broken police system…

I’ve often considered what can be done to prevent these types of abuses.

• First, I think psychological testing on cops should be done regularly. It’s unreasonable to think a cop is unaffected emotionally or mentally by constantly witnessing the worst of the worst kinds of atrocities on a daily basis.
• Another thing that might be worth taking a closer look at is why or when policemen became so seemingly trigger-happy with their guns. Have the rules changed since I was a young girl?  I always thought cops weren’t supposed to shoot except to protect themselves or someone else.  Is that not still the case?
• Perhaps creating more advanced shooting tests.  You know, like the ones where boards shaped like innocent women or children pop up.  Have cops take other regular tests with various scenarios like these cases and the proper way to handle them.
• Cops need to stand up to one another and/or speak up when they see a fellow cop doing something wrong.
• Any trace of racism detected must be dealt with immediately.

Even still, in our anger over these injustices, we need to try to remember that the majority of cops are not like this. Most cops serve and protect their communities well and uprightly.  They help change tires for broken down vehicles.  They protect women and children from abuse.  They guide traffic in the rain.  They investigate rapes and murders.  Anytime they are called and show up to help, people are rarely ever happy to see them.  They put their lives on the line everyday.

As helpless and hopeless that we may feel whenever something like this happens, I imagine there’s also a pit of anxiety that wells up in their stomach; knowing that one cop’s bad actions immediately just painted a target on their back because of their profession.  They will automatically be lumped in with the bad cop.  Their families also fear for their loved one’s lives, even more than normal, wondering if this may be the last time they will see them.

Unfortunately, since we live in a fallen world, the fact of the matter is that men’s hearts are becoming hardened in every area.  And the Bible prophesies that it will get worse.  Only God can change the heart of man (Psalm 51:10; Ezekiel 36:26).  Therefore, first and foremost, the greatest tool we have to effectively make a difference is prayer, prayer and more prayer.

This brings me to the question…

The question I have is one that many may not like…

Are we completely certain this senseless murder was due to racism?  Other than the cop being white and the victim black, I haven’t seen any evidence that this cruelty was because of racism.  I do understand how minority groups who have been unfairly treated in the past might be quick to instantly attach it to racism, but I implore you to seek truth, logic and reason.  Understandably, emotions can run high when we see this type of thing, but emotions can be unreliable and often only produce more destructive emotions.

Could it be possible that this was simply the wicked actions of a power-driven cop that our dark world has produced? (Mind you, a cop that many of you think should be the only ones to have guns… but that’s a topic for another day). So far in this particular instance, I simply haven’t yet seen evidence of racism. Perhaps I’m missing something?  If so, I do apologize.  But I did notice that the other black man was not treated like this. Therefore, logic would suggest that if racism was the driving force, then he would’ve also been treated similarly.

Please recognize any anger that may be rising up in your spirit towards me right now, in this instant, for merely asking the question.  Be aware that this might be the enemy stirring up accusations and lies.  Those who know me know I’m not racist.  I am, however, a person who seeks truth above anything else; especially during these end times where the Bible says truth will be difficult to discern, and the lie will be widely distributed and accepted. (2 Thessalonians 2:10-11)

Asking the question does not deny racism exists; nor does it definitively declare that this cop wasn’t motivated by racism. It’s just that as of right now there doesn’t seem to be anything to suggest racism as the cause.

Whenever we make everything about racism, it diminishes very real acts of racism. When people call everything racist… including alternate opinions, disagreements, silence, etc… they only further contribute to the racial divide.

Unfortunately, according to various memes and statuses I’ve seen on social media, the fact that I’m even asking the question somehow now makes me a racist. The fact that I haven’t yet seen evidence of racism somehow makes me a racist.  If I say nothing at all, I’m racist.  At the same time, anything I may try to say can be misconstrued as racist. These are the conflicting posts I’ve been seeing.  I even recently saw a video that suggested talking about a vacation after a three-month quarantine displays uncaring white privilege.  The definition of racism seems to be changing on a daily basis, with memes and posts beginning something like, “The new racism is…”

Can we please try to see that these types of posts help promote the enemy’s narrative to further cause hatred and division?  These types of posts that take the evils of a few wicked people, and attach and assign blame to an entire race or group of people is, in fact, the very definition of racism.

Another series of questions to ponder… How many of you knew about any of the police brutality examples I shared above?  Why do you think they didn’t explode throughout the media and social media?  Why didn’t they produce as much outrage?  If you haven’t yet watched them, please pause here for a minute to go watch them.  They’re just as outrageous as George Floyd’s senseless death.

Exposing the lying spirits of the enemy is not racist, but rather something that every Christian should seek to do.  This is what I will attempt to do in the next section.

Please bear with me for a short while longer…

Divide and Conquer…

This is where we move into something that makes me angrier than the above mentioned injustices…

Helplessly watching the great divide in America becoming seemingly greater, as the enemy twists truth to hide what he’s up to.  Being a watchman and trying to warn God’s people of the Trojan horse entering the gates, but the vast appeal of that horse holds their gaze, as they then get angry at the watchman.

So here is where I fear I might lose some of my black brothers and sisters.  Please don’t quickly dismiss what I believe to be the real enemy… First, the secular enemy, then the spiritual enemy.  Please try for the next few minutes to consider the possibility of what I’m about to expose might very well be truth.  And if it is true, please see that we all have a bigger problem than racism, as we are ALL on the cusp of becoming slaves.

Consistently, like clockwork for the last few years, a very real enemy has intentionally used and exploited very real tragedies like these to purposely cause racial tension and division. I fully believe there are two main ‘powers’ that have the same ultimate goals in mind: to divide America and to divide God’s children.  These powers are…

1. Secular powers-that-be who control financial institutions, media, government, etc., and
2. Satan, their leader and greater enemy to us all, but mostly to God’s children who he hates with vengeance

Let’s consider for a moment these secular powers-that-be. They purposefully use (and sometimes even create) tragedies like these to instill fear, anger and hate in order to divert attention and cause division.  They own the media, social media, google, etc.; and, are therefore, fully capable of manipulating the masses effectively.  Since they also control most of Hollywood, they are more than equipped to stage, produce and direct real life narratives of chaos and division.

Sidenote… I just can’t get the way that cop kept looking at the camera out of my mind. Did that seem off to anyone else?

‘Divide and conquer’ is a very strategic and effective wartime motto that is not only used by the military. The powers-that-be also know how to effectively manipulate and enact this motto that distracts people from seeing truth and from seeing the real enemy (them).  This strategy has been proven successful with many nations before America and is now being wielded against us.

Pitting races against one another and detailing how to manipulate people to divide a country using media and false flags is found in Hitler’s playbook (Mein Kampf). This ingenious despotic plan caused German friends, neighbors and even family members to effectively ignore truth while turning against one another. And because of these distractions (hey, look over here at this hand), many good Germans were unable to believe or see the evils that their wicked government had inflicted on an entire race right under their noses (what the other hand is doing).

Believe it or not, there are people currently in power in today’s world who actually studied under Hitler, who hate America and everything she stands for, and who know how to thoroughly utilize the lessons learned from past dictatorships onto American society.

Now suppose, for just a moment, that you are a part of a powerful group of villains that has devised an evil plan to rule, control and depopulate the world.  But there’s one country who is a major thorn in your side and constantly interrupts your evil plan from moving forward with all their praying and freedom and such.  For a little while, you thought you had them along with the rest of the world as you instilled fear in them.  Practically overnight, this fear caused them to turn on neighbors and friends; and to willingly give up every freedom afforded them in their Constitution.  Of course you offer protection with a solution to the fear you helped instill in them… a mandatory vaccination chip that prevents you from buying or selling and tracks everyone’s whereabouts. (Revelation 13:16-18).

But, wait a minute… the people are uniting and waking up to this evil scheme.  They’re asking questions and seeking answers.  Those darn Bible prophecies!  The people are now starting to unite against you.  Uh-oh!  They’re on to you.  What do you do now?

You must find or create a huge distraction to divide them so that you can then position yourself back into the secret place of enforcing your plan.  Create chaos and confusion.  Call for reinforcements and utilize all your resources to figure out how to make this happen.  What’s the fastest way to accomplish this division?  What works every single time?

This is not fiction, folks!

And if this is true, then everyone should be as angry as I am at being played and toyed with like this.  With all the lives lost.  With all businesses destroyed (mostly black-owned businesses, btw).  With each race at each other’s throats.  If what I say is true, we should all be united in anger at the real enemy.  We should be watching and praying, as Jesus commanded, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.

The greater enemy…

More than the anger of seeing the strategic division of my country is the anger of witnessing the division of my brothers and sisters in Christ.

This brings me to the subject of an even greater unseen enemy, who goes by name of Satan, Lucifer, Angel of Light, Prince of Darkness, Beelzebub (Ruler of Demons), Son of Perdition, Father of Lies, Accuser, Destroyer, Ruler of this World, Deceiver, etc.

One of his primary jobs is to deceive, whisper lies and accusations in our ears, then stir up anger and hatred against one another…  Using fear! Oh how he thrives on fear! And one of the greatest tools he uses to feed and distribute that fear is social media.  Keep in mind that our fear gives him permission to move the same way that our faith gives God permission to move.

As Beelzebub (the Ruler of Demons), he concocts a plan and sends out his fallen angels (demons).  Picture this… These demons with their little lying tongues and hands reaching out of our televisions and phones, piercing our minds and infecting our hearts with his thoughts.  It’s as though these demons first beckon us onto social media.  Then as we scroll through our news feed, anger builds.  Our spirit is disrupted and disturbed.

Those demons continue stirring the pot and pandering to our emotions.  Poking. Whispering.  We don’t realize what’s happening.  Then we start posting and sharing memes that match our disposition.  We start rejecting truth and logic as we set out to prove the point we’ve been convinced is absolute truth.  On cue, in steps the Accuser.  We find ourselves getting angry with those who post opposing views.  Everything has now become offensive.  People that we loved and were on the same page with last week have now become people we hate and distrust this week.

Then steps in the Angel of Light, whose voice is disguised to make us think it’s the Lord’s.  He uses scripture, as he did with Jesus, to justify our righteous indignation, to justify the retaliation and ensuing sin that follows.  The demons put more things in front of us to prove we’re right.  We continue to scroll, share, post, and comment.

The demons rejoice as we continue entering into agreement/covenant with them.  We get lots of likes, and dopamine is released in our brain, causing us to crave more.  We also get a few dislikes and even some hateful comments.  The demons use these to stir up and further fuel anger inside of us.

What we don’t realize is that these demons are doing the exact same thing to the other side.

The demons whisper things that appeal to flesh and emotion, in which everyone is now blindly and eagerly following after.  Everyone is defensive. Everyone is divided. Hatred is spreading.  Can you hear their gleeful jeers and hissing cackles of the fallen angels?

Meanwhile, the Holy Spirit’s voice has become so faint as he attempts to speak love, peace and unity.  He beckons us to put the phone down; to open our Bibles; to come spend time with Him.  He whispers soft loving convictions. He is ignored.

Please don’t allow yourself to fall for the devil’s wicked schemes.  Please examine your spirit-man to see if you are being played like a fiddle…the devil’s fiddle.  I must admit that there have been plenty of times I’ve fallen victim to his lies as I’ve allowed him to stir up all kinds of angry thoughts and negative emotions in me based off fear and pride.  Why do you think I was able to describe it so well?

It is so easy to fall into that trap… To reach for your phone first thing in the morning before reaching for your Bible.  Next thing you know, you’ve wasted your day away.  That loud obnoxious voice of the enemy becomes the predominant one as your soul comes into agreement with it.  This is the same enemy who also sets up circumstances to match the lies he’s whispering.

Sometimes it is so very difficult to seek God in the height and midst of all that commotion and chaos raging inside of you.  Oh sure, many of us can conjure up scripture to support and justify our reactions.  But are we really listening for His voice?  A good way to examine yourself is to ask these five primary questions…

1. Have I humbly talked to God yet today? Have I sought His Truth on the matter?
2. How long have I been on social media and/or my phone?  (Hint: Whatever you spend the most time with is what your spirit is feeding on)
3. How many posts have I posted today that are related to the same topic?
4. Am I being loving in my responses to friends and family?  What do my stories and statuses look like?  Are they snarky and hateful?  Are they accusatory?
5. Are my posts fruitful and productive?  Are they Kingdom-minded?  What do I hope to gain by what I just posted?

Go on… Take a minute to go look at your social media news feed… Answer the questions above.

As Christians, we are to follow Christ’s example.  Remember that when He walked the earth, there were all sorts of injustices going on as well.  Until His crucifixion, His own disciples continued to expect Him to overthrow the unjust Roman government and set up His Kingdom here on earth.  That is also why a multitude of people who had previously witnessed his many miracles now adamantly demanded His death over Barabbas. Have you ever wondered why they were so quick to turn on Him?

One reason is that Barabbas was an insurrectionist who was at least willing to murder and steal from those unjust Romans.  Barabbas appealed to their flesh.  Jesus did not, as He lovingly gave up His life for all mankind.  This man’s death was the most unjust and undeserved death that has ever happened in history.  Are we doing the same as those people who shouted for his death?  Are we choosing Barabbas over Jesus in order to get our justice?  Read more by visiting the blog titled Choosing Barabbas.

Please continue to hear me out…

What is the enemy up to…

This very real enemy hates you and he hates me.  All hate comes from him… even the littlest, tiniest bit of hate.  With that knowledge, let’s try to see what he may be up to in the spirit realm.  For we know that everything that happens in the spirit realm manifests itself in the secular.

For starters, it is no small coincidence that all this division took place within the last ten days.  You might ask what is so significant about these last ten days?  Well these are the days between Jesus’s Ascension and Pentecost.  Biblically, it was during this time that Jesus told his followers to go wait for the promised Holy Spirit.  The disciples obeyed as they united in prayer for ten days.

This is exactly what His church should’ve been doing these past ten days as well.  Is it starting to make sense why the devil might want to try and disrupt that?  Who knows what we may have missed out on because we’ve been allowing the enemy to sew discord instead.

Something else that he might be up to… This divisive narrative of the enemy seems to come around heavily during an election year, but even more so when people (of all races) are starting to awaken in unity to the real evil mastermind and ploy. The divisive narrative provokes minorities to hate (or doubt) all white people and all cops. Sometimes it even causes looting of businesses (often black-owned small businesses that suffer the most), riots in the middle of streets, and more death to people who had absolutely nothing to do with the act in question.

This divisive narrative also provokes three different reactions in white people, who either

1. Feel guilty and/or apologize for being white
2. Completely disregard and/or make light of real racism altogether, automatically thinking it is yet another false flag designed to incite a race war
3. Confusion about what they’re supposed to do

This divisive narrative is completely ineffective in solving the real heart problem of racism, but super effective in creating a bigger one of division. The devil rejoices as he gains victory.  Again, please don’t fall for it!  Recognize the ploys of the enemy and refuse to be a part of it.

It is true that speaking up for injustice is godly, but so is recognizing what that injustice actually is and exposing the lies of the great enemy, the prince of this world.  It is also true that there are many other outrageous injustices that have been ignored and continue to go unnoticed.  Of course, these issues don’t divide a nation as quickly or as fiercely…

• There is little outrage against abortion, the most racist organization in America created and designed for the sole purpose of depopulating the ‘less desirable races’.  Don’t believe me?  Look it up.  Margaret Sanger, who created Planned Parenthood was a racist eugenicist who made regular statements like, “We do not want word to go out that we want to exterminate the Negro population, and the minister is the man who can straighten out that idea if it ever occurs to any of their more rebellious members.”  Guess what else… Bill Gates, Sr served on the board of this racist organization for years.  Click here for more information about the Gates family and their long history of eugenics.  Of course, they’ve convinced the world that those of us who do speak up on this issue are crazy zealots.
• There is little outrage against the many ridiculous unjust arrests that took place during covid in this ‘free’ country… including the arrest a pastor. Unbelievably, many Christians actually applauded his arrest. Wait! What?!  All of our freedoms were quite literally taken away like a thief in the night, with much compliance and little outrage. Those of us who spoke up about that were labeled unloving and uncaring of the elderly.  In fact, has anyone noticed how most of the covid plandemic has been swept under the rug and seemingly forgotten about? Is the timing not suspicious of three racial incidents (one of which happened in February) were brought to our attention right after a video revealing covid truth that had gone viral?  A video that they relentlessly tried to censor by removing it over and over again!
• There is little outrage about the horrific Christian persecution happening throughout the world. Decapitations. Starvations. Disowned by family. Property taken. Unjust imprisonments. Etc. Etc. Our brothers and sisters in the Mideast, in Korea, in China, etc., cry out. Do we cry with them? Where is the outrage? Where are the posts? These are your brothers and sisters!! Though they aren’t necessarily being persecuted for their race, they are persecuted for believing in a man who was most unjustly crucified on a cross. The same man that you and I believe in.  This persecution is coming soon to America…sooner than you may think.  It is a mistake to think we will all be raptured before persecution comes to America.  Folks, it’s on our doorstep.
• Mandatory vaccination chips that are already in the works.  Again, notice how that topic has gone off the radar lately?  More than ever before, this is what should be on ALL believers radar.  They should ALL be as passionate about this very real and plausible threat as they are about racism and other issues.  They should be declaring what Jesus warned of and declared often, “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”  Even more so now that the Kingdom of Heaven is closer than ever before.

Following along with the media narrative of distraction and division that is quite literally run and controlled by the prince of this world is not holy or righteous at all, but the opposite!! We must be intentional to seek God regarding the truth of each of these instances. If there is racism, then of course, cry out against the injustice. And I will cry out alongside you.  But that cry shouldn’t be louder than the heart cry of the Holy Spirit.

All I ask is that you try not to be so quick to automatically jump on the bandwagon of the super strategic and divisive narrative of the enemy. Examine which spirit(s) is whispering in your ear and guiding you. The fact that some of these topics gain so much traction when there’s often little evidence to support them, and that they so quickly stir up anger and hatred tells me there are spirits attached.  Don’t give those spirits even more power than they already have.

As Christians, our hearts should seek His truth and be about His Kingdom first and foremost. Jesus is coming soon! There is very obvious evidence to support that!

• No other time in world history have all the prophecies and revelations lined up in accord.
• No other time has there been a plausible ‘mark of the beast’ than now with the mandatory vaccinations in progress. (Revelation 13)
• No other time has all knowledge been at our fingerprints.
• No other time has the gospel been able to reach the furthermost parts of the earth.
• No other time have the prophecies surrounding Israel and the Messianic feast fulfillments and temple prophecies been as prevalent as they are now.

Jesus told us to watch and pray on those things. Those things are upon us, and the beast has been released to cause division and hatred. The very elect may be deceived… especially if they are listening to and playing by the enemy’s rules.  We must be alert and aware of the devil’s schemes so that we can pray and do warfare accordingly.

Jesus is coming soon and very soon. Let that be your focus and passion. People, who don’t know Him, are dying all around you, and hell is filling its gates. Let that be your outrage. The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Do not become the enemy’s victim or pawn!

Remember that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against spiritual principalities. Therefore, the only way to have victory in any fight, racism or otherwise, is to

1. Recognize the real enemy. Be cautious of Trojan horses
2. Put on your spiritual armor every day (Ephesians 6:11-18)
3. Remember that 98% of the fight must be done first in the spirit realm through prayer and truth
4. Remain united with your brothers and sisters in love.

Please understand that I’m not trying to diminish a very real pain and fear that my brothers and sisters are experiencing.  Rather, I’m attempting to show both views in order to hopefully bring about reconciliation.  I’m attempting to get all believers to fully awaken to the times we live in, where men’s hearts are failing them. I’m attempting to give everyone something to consider and go to God in prayer with to see if what I say might be true.  If so, then you might find yourself angry with a holy anger for a completely different reason than before.

Let’s love one another. Let’s forgive one another. Let’s refuse to be a part of false accusations and hatred. Let’s all examine our own hearts to see if there are any preconceived notions about another race.  Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any racism or hatred of another person or group of people.  Let’s consider ways that the enemy of our souls might be lying to us regarding current events.

To all my black African-American brothers and sisters… I love you so very much. You have ministered to me.  You have been among my closest friends.  You have welcomed me.  You helped me buy my first car.  You have quickly forgiven me when I’ve angered or offended you.  You have received my teachings with joy and praise.  You have prayed and prophesied over me.  In many ways, you have been the least judgmental and self-righteous within the church.  God has used you to bring my heart and focus back to Him multiple times.  You have lovingly rebuked me when I’ve sinned.  You have understood me.  You have cried with me.  You have laughed with me.  You have blessed me immensely.  You have played such an important part of my entire life throughout the many stages of my life.  I love you!

The post A White Mother’s Attempt to Find Unity Amidst a Great Divide appeared first on Soaring Revelations.

Why doesn’t the modern church witness the miracles of the early church? 

It’s partly because it isn’t willing to endure the persecutions that the early church endured!  That’s why!! 

Today’s church has compromised so much that they’ve gone completely off Biblical course.  Compromise only leads to more compromise, which always leads to worldview ideologies over God-view Truth.  The church is at an impasse right now… Where the rubber meets the road (so to speak).  We are living in a time where lines are being drawn and faith is being tested.  A time when believers show what they truly believe.  A time where the wheat is being separated from the tares.

As such, I have a question… When will all this illogical and inconsistent C0VID craziness be enough before the church finally steps up and shows the POWER that it’s supposed to possess?

My Church

I was super excited and proud of my church for having service when all other churches had closed their doors.  What fearless boldness the pastor displayed!!  Now this is a leader I’ll gladly follow as we enter the end times!   

Unfortunately, that boldness was short lived.  A mere three days later, President Trump came out and advised (note the word “advised” not “made law”) that there should be no gathering larger than 10 people.  Bamm!  The pastor and church that I had been so proud of caved and instantly closed its doors right along with the other churches. 

Furthermore, when I attempted to share ideas/ways around this very “unconstitutional” government edict, it was completely and quickly shot down without fully addressing my suggestion.  Via the church social media page, I proposed we gather outside on church grounds, which was large enough to ‘social distance’ appropriately.  Without even an ounce of consideration, the page moderator completely rejected my suggestion with a prompt response that was totally unrelated.  Even though it probably wasn’t even brought before the pastor, this quick dismissal caused me to feel totally duped in my previously mentioned excitement. 

What happened to all the bold Christian Leaders?

These last couple of weeks, we’ve been able to get a glimpse of two such leaders… Pastor Rodney Howard Browne and Pastor Tony Spell. These courageous pastors were both arrested for continuing to hold church services.  Did you ever before think such a thing would happen in America? 

Even more shocking were the many Christians who condemned these spiritual warriors.  Foolishly, these believers have fully embraced the propaganda that local ‘mandates’ (again, not laws) somehow usurp the highest law of the land (aka the Constitution).  They don’t even realize what this means as they willingly surrender their freedoms and join the band wagon of attacking their brothers in Christ.

With the arrest of Dr. Rodney Howard Brown and Pastor Tony Spell, my hope is that church leaders will finally rise up and say, “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”

Will You Be Able to Stand When the Real Persecutions Begin?

If Christians aren’t even willing to stand up against and undergo possible fines, how on earth will they be able to endure the promised prophetic persecutions?  Persecutions that all this C0VID-19 mayhem is quite literally a preview of?

The church is being tested right now; and sad to say, they are failing miserably.  If Christians are so quick to give up constitutional rights of “assembly” and “worship” over something that simply isn’t adding up, then what will they do when the real persecution begins?  And make no mistake, this is a precursor/test-run to what the apostle John prophesied over 2000 years ago in Revelations 13 where forced mandatory vaccine chips are the ultimate objective. 

These obvious end time signs that we are witnessing should be preached in the pulpits to prepare God’s children for what’s to come.  Jesus said often and preached many parables about watching and praying ALWAYS, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.  We are literally living in a time like no other time in history where there is worldwide Marshall Law, where biblical prophesy about Israel, pestilence, wars and rumors of wars, weather effects, etc… These are all being fulfilled right before our very eyes.

The Church’s Responsibility During Trying Times

The church is where people go for healing, for comfort, for the full operation of the gifts of the Spirit.  Instead, it’s closed for business as it reveals to mankind how little FAITH and POWER it actually has.  Zilch! Nada! None whatsoever!

Isn’t the church supposed to represent Christ to a dying and hurting world?

The reason today’s church doesn’t witness the miracles that the early church witnessed is partly because modern believers aren’t willing to endure what they endured.  Instead, we play it safe in our homes protecting ourselves from something that simply doesn’t add up.  What ever happened to WWJD?  Hmm, what did Jesus do?  Jesus touched the severely contagious lepers fearlessly and selflessly.  That’s what he did!  He certainly didn’t ‘social distance’.

People’s hearts are failing them (Luke 21:26).  And sadly, there’s nowhere for them to turn; no church to go to; no hug to receive; etc. The love and ministry of Christ is sparse these days as His children are too busy preserving their own lives.

The Hypocrisy

Admittedly, one of the most frustrating things for me in all of this is the hypocrisy throughout the land by church leaders and fellow believers. The following are some things that many are now touting to justify their lack of faith.  These things contradict and misconstrue the Word of God, along with pre-‘PLAN’demic preaching.

Ok, so let’s address a few of these newly propagated common statements and philosophies.

Misapplied Hermeneutics #1: Sometimes God must remove the idols in our lives so we can seek HIM… for some that is the church building and music and programs.

I actually wholeheartedly agree with this, and have voiced this for years… much to the chagrin of the common pre-‘PLAN’demic church teachings.  It is absolutely my hope that God’s people are convicted of their idols during this time of forced self-imprisonment as they seek HIM with their whole heart.  My concern and prayer for them, though, is that they are able to discern God’s still small voice (1 Kings 19:12) over the antichrist spirit’s loud obnoxious voice that screams fear and hysteria via the different virtual mediums.  Unfortunately, as many believers fall victim to the lies of despair and outrage, it seems these screams to be so loud that they are essentially drowning out voice of God.  

Rather than removing the idols of church buildings and programs, it appears people are simply exchanging them for the other bigger idols of social media and worldly knowledge (which is fake news).  All of which, continue to censor and manipulate narratives to promote and cultivate mass hysteria that shuts down churches, the economy, schools, etc. 

Believers Are Turning On One Another

I pray that these ‘believers’ will stop turning on their brothers and sisters who are attempting to stand up for righteousness’s sake.  Unfortunately, all I see is the majority posting condescending and judgmental statements towards those who challenge the worldview beliefs that have replaced reality, science, common sense and truth.  

A Doctrine Never Before Preached

It’s interesting to me that nobody from the church EVER preached this theology before the worldwide Marshall Law took place.  In fact, quite the opposite… they frowned upon this kind of crazy talk and judged people who did occasionally stay home for the purpose of seeking HIM and HIM alone.  

It had always before been widely preached and implied that people who stayed home from church were sinning by “forsaking the assembling of themselves together” (Hebrews 10:25).  These same people are now encouraging congregations to do just that; but, of course, with a virtuous spin.  To appear holy and righteous in doing so, they assert statements like #1 to justify their complete theological turnabout.

Sidenote:  Ironically, many of the people who post these types of sayings are the same people who spend their waking hours at the church, talking about the church, the pastor, the worship team and the programs; all while being a jerk to the waitress right after service.  Admittedly, sometimes I just wanna scream as loud as I can, “Look at the three fingers pointing back at you while you point your pretentious finger at others with virtuous statements like these.  But, I digress…

Misapplied Hermeneutics #2: The church isn’t a building… You are the church.

Yet another statement that is absolutely true.  My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit; and therefore, I am the church.  The problem with the new ideology surrounding this truth is the same as with #1… it is a continued virtuous excuse/reason for bowing to the prince of this world. 

Keep in mind that the Pharisees, Scribes, Sadducees, KKK, Westboro Baptists, cults, etc., all use scripture to justify their chosen beliefs/actions.  Question to consider… How are these posturing declarations of today’s fear-based-online-church any different?

Besides that, promoting this creed to convince believers to now stay home sets a dangerous precedent.  If it’s ok for me to have church at home now because I am the church and because the church isn’t a building, then why wasn’t it ok before?  What’s to say I can’t continue to “be the church” in my own home ALL the time, even after this is all over (assuming that it will one day be over)?  And are you really being the church at home?  Like, really??  How?

 I don’t have time to go over what the church (aka the bride of Christ) is supposed to look like, but maybe one day I’ll write about it.

All I ask is that you please stop putting a positive spiritual spin on worldwide Marshall Law.  It is true that God cannot be contained in boxes or buildings.  However, He is supposed to dwell within us in power and light for all the world to see.  Instead, we’re “staying safe” in our little boxes at home; thereby containing God in a box of fear… fear of man, fear of government and fear of sickness.  All while telling others not to fear.  Geesh!

This is NOT okay!

When it’s ok for a person to go get an abortion, but not go to church, it is not ok.  When it’s ok for a person to go to a liquor store for comfort, but not go to a church, it is not ok.  When pastors are arrested in America for standing on the Word of God and the Constitution (which, btw, is the highest law of the land), it is not ok.

Meanwhile, there are those who are hurting, who are anxious, who are depressed, who need salvation and healing; with nowhere to turn and nobody to give them a hug.  Perhaps an air-hug from 6 feet away is good for some, but most people need more than that to truly feel love.  Love that the church is supposed to show. Love that the church should be allowed to show.  That bold fierce love is what spreads Christ throughout a nation; throughout the world!!  But, instead, we’re safe in our homes while others who have nobody and nowhere to turn are suffering in forced isolation with suicide rates being at an all time high.  This is NOT OK!!

Misapplied Hermeneutics #3: Scripture tells us submit to authority and obey the laws of the land (Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter 2:13-14).

Let’s start with the first scripture mentioned above… The book of Romans is believed to have been written by Paul.  Get this… while he was in prison.  Why was he in prison?  For obeying the law?  Nope!  The authorities told Paul and the disciples not to preach the gospel in Jesus name.  They disobeyed those mandates and ended up in prison because of it.  In fact, Paul wrote two-thirds of the New Testament… while in prison for disobeying the laws of the land.

Romans 13:1-7 is taken out of context here; as it was during the American Revolution when the colonies debated about rebelling against the king of England; as it was when Hitler divided the church against one another; the same as it is for our persecuted brothers and sisters in China and around the world who disobey the law to congregate underground.  Fyi…Romans 13:1-7 is about paying taxes and paying debts for wrongdoing.

Speaking of China…

China is an excellent example of where our country, nay, where the world is headed with ALL rights being taken and freely given away.  The main difference between modern Christians today and the Chinese underground churches (along with other Christian-persecuted nations) is that true Chinese believers still congregate despite laws (not mandates) sanctioned against them.  People in China (and other places like the Mideast, Korea, parts of Africa and India, etc.) are jailed and killed for congregating. 

But here, in America, we are afraid of fines and/or of contracting a super suspicious virus.  Worse than that, we are judging and condemning pastors who have been arrested for refusing to bow. 

I can’t help but wonder what ya’ll would’ve said about Daniel, Mordecai, Shadrack, Meshack, Abednego, etc., who openly defied the law.

Furthermore, the next scripture in question is found in 1 Peter 2:13-14. This letter was likely written during the reign of Roman Emperor Domitian, who expected everyone to recognize his aggressive claim of divinity.  In other words, it was the ‘law of the land’ to acknowledge Domitian and his Flavian family as gods.  Christians and Jews were severely persecuted during this time.  Do you honestly believe Peter was telling people to obey this law?  To bow to a self-proclaimed god?  To essentially deny their faith in the One True God?

Based upon what I’ve witnessed thus far this year, I fear that in today’s society/culture, most Christians would certainly comply and bow.  But they would do so in a pharisaic manner while quoting scripture to justify their prostration.

The Highest Law of the Land

I feel the need to reiterate that the highest law of our land is the Constitution!  This supersedes any other law of the land; especially illogical and unreasonable ‘mandates’ not voted on! 

The First Amendment in the Declaration of Independence includes the right to assemble and the right to worship.  Why do you suppose that is?  Have you ever wondered why our forefathers thought to incorporate these declarations as the very FIRST one?  Think about it.  Fifty-six founding fathers from thirteen separate colonies came together to discuss and pray about how to break away from a tyrannical government.  They came up with a document that declared their independence, our independence.  And the very first Amendment that they incorporate as part of the unalienable rights included the right to assemble and the right to worship. 

Whenever anyone writes up a list of any kind, the first point usually reflects the most important.  So, why do you think the forefathers considered these two things the most important?  Consider this for a moment. History repeatedly demonstrates the ultimate goal of those who infringe upon these two freedoms. Likewise, you’d better believe there is a more sinister reason today than the ridiculous narrative you’re being fed.

Greater Works Than Jesus?

Both, China and the early church, witness(ed) miracles; the same types of miracles that Jesus performed.  Jesus said we would all do more than He did (John 14:12) with the same Holy Ghost power that raised Him from the dead.  Why do you think these believers experienced and are experiencing these promises and we aren’t?  One of the reasons is that they were/are willing to endure things that we simply aren’t.

Do We Really Believe?  Either we believe that Jesus walked in power, fearlessly laying hands on contagious lepers or we don’t.  Either we believe we have that same power or we don’t.  Either we believe in the Word of God or we don’t!

Church, rise up!  Be BOLD!!

Though I’m ready for what’s to come, for what John prophesied over 2,000 years ago, I don’t think the church as a whole is.  It is the shepherds’ jobs to care for and warn the sheep; to protect them and to gather them; not let them be scattered for the wolves to pick off one by one.  Leaders, rise up! Be Bold! Prepare your sheep for what’s to come!!

The Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand! Jesus maintained an overall theme throughout most of his parables, “Watch and pray, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”  And to a dying world of unbelievers, “Repent and be saved!”  More than ever before, we need to preach the same!  The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!!

Revival Coming Soon

The good news is that I firmly believe something that God spoke to me in 2012 will first take place… Revival.  I’m waiting expectantly for one final Holy Spirit revival (the Greatest Awakening we’ve ever known) to eventually come of this.  This revival will serve two main purposes: to bring about the greatest spiritual harvest there has ever been and to empower God’s weak children with the Holy Spirit.  It is only by Him that this power will completely awaken and saturate His children to be able to endure what lies ahead. That’s my hope and my continuous prayer.

The post Where Are the Faithful Fearless Leaders of the Church? appeared first on Soaring Revelations.

While praying for our country during this COVID-19 pandemic and pandemonium, the Holy Spirit stirred up a prayer in me the other day on my daily walk.  This prayer is heavily influenced by the Biblical book of Esther.  Since Queen Esther once asked God’s people to pray, I felt led to share this with you and ask you to pray likewise until we see God’s deliverance and victory…   

Father God, I pray over the “Esthers” of today; people and institutions that are positioned to make a difference but perhaps afraid of being ridiculed or attacked for speaking up (Esther 4:11). Small business owners, church leaders, Christian individuals, believers behind the scenes, social media frequenters, etc.  I pray that these “Esthers” would be bold and rise up for such a time as this.  

I pray over the “Esthers” that are temporarily and seemingly giving in to and/or catering to fear… 

• the same fear that causes a mad rush to stores for toilet paper  
• the same fear that cancels events  
• the same fear that closes businesses  
• the same fear that shuts down the economy  
• the same fear that empties out grocery aisles 
• the same fear that demands freedoms and rights of everyone be taken away (which, btw, is exactly what fear has historically done throughout history with tyrannical, dictatorship and socialist nations before us… it’s the only way to get people to not only demand rights be taken away but to them to rise up against their friends and family in hatred and anger) 
• and worst of all the fear that prohibits and prevent believers from congregating

For those “Esthers” that may be operating alongside fear; Lord, I pray that You would help them realize that they were indeed created for such a time is this (Esther 4:12-14).  That as Your people continue to pray for them, that they would rise up in faith and boldly approach the king; first and foremost… to You, as the King of Kings (Hebrews 4:16); but also to those in positions of authority (Esther 5:1-2).

**Customize your prayer**… Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the “Esthers” in your life or nation that need your prayer.  Then pray over them.  Ask the Holy Spirit to show you if you’re an “Esther” who needs to approach the “king” and speak up.  If yes, then ask others to pray for you.

I pray over the “kings” of this earth …any person, organization or government in a position of authority (the President, leaders of other nations, governors, mayors, church leadership, small business owners, CEOs, fathers, mothers, etc.). I pray wisdom for the “kings”… that You would awaken them; that you would not only awaken them, but that You would give them a disruptive sleep (Esther 6:1)… 

• until they open up the scroll  
• until they remember how God previously protected them (Esther 6:2) 
• until they are provoked to recognize and bless the “Mordecais” (rather than blindly hang them as the “Hamans” have convinced them to do) (Esther 6:3) 
• until they have receptive hearts and listening ears for what the “Esthers” need to tell them (Esther 5:1) 
• until they become aware of the true enemy and the “Haman” deception(s) (Esther 7:5-6) 
• until they rise up in wisdom and the authority that God has given them to bless the “Mordecais” (Esther 6:3)
• until they take down the “Hamans” (Esther 7:9) 

**Customize your prayer**… Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the “kings” in your life or nation that need your prayer.  Then pray for them.  If you are in any type of position of authority, ask the Holy Spirit to disrupt your sleep and awaken you to do His Will.

I pray over the “Mordecais” of today,  

• the ones who uncover the conspiracies and do the right thing (Esther 2:21-23) 
• the ones who refuse to bow even though the entire world bows (Esther 3:2) 
• the ones who would continue to worship God regardless of what government edicts and mandates are instituted (Esther 3:3-4) (Esther 4:8) 
• the ones who are not afraid to reprimand the “Esthers” by telling them that they are created for such a time as this (Esther 4:13-14) 
• the ones who boldly motivate and encourage the “Esthers” that are positioned to make a difference and change 

Lord, I pray for the “Mortdecai” individuals, churches, small businesses, etc., who are refusing to bow…  

• that they would not be discouraged by the attacks against them
• that your light would shine forth through them  
• that You would pour out Your Spirit upon them  
• that You would force the “Hamans” to publicly honor them by giving them the King’s ring and horse for all to see (Esther 6:6-11) 
• that You would bless and prosper those “Mordecais” greatly for years to come (Esther 8:1-2, 15) 

**Customize your prayer**… Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the “Mordecais” in your life or nation that need your prayer.  Then pray for them.  Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any area where you might be ignoring and/or ridiculing the “Mordecais” that are faithfully sitting at the gate and refusing to bow.  Repent and look for ways to encourage them.

I pray and speak boldly against the “Hamans” (the deceivers and connivers) of today and of COVID-19;  

• the ones who falsely take credit for others righteous deeds (Esther 3:1)  
• the ones who demand everyone bow before them (Esther 3:5) 
• the ones who manipulate the law and the “kings” for their own selfish purposes (Esther 3:7-9) 
• the ones who ultimately seek to destroy God’s people (Esther 3:6) 

I pray that the “Haman” deception behind this virus and this pandemonium (whether that be China, George Soros, possible advisors to Trump, the media who is stirring up fear and mass hysteria, whoever and whatever, etc.) be exposed. I pray that any and every deceitful sinister plan against our nation/world be thwarted.  That the conspirators and co-conspirators (Esther 6:13) be revealed and hanged up high for all to see on the very pole intended for the “Mordecais” (Esther 7:9).  I pray that the Truth of COVID-19 come to fruition; and that the TRUTH would set the nation(s) free. 

**Customize your prayer**… Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the “Hamans” in your life or nation who need you to boldly prophesy against in prayer.  Ask the Lord to show you any area you have come alongside the “Hamans” in their attack of the “Mordecais” and God’s people. Repent!

Lord, I pray a hedge of protection over Your people.  People who may’ve initially cowered in fear, but are now prevailing through prayer and fasting (Esther 8:15-17)…  

• that they would completely trust in the Power of Your Precious Blood that was shed for them 
• that they would follow Your example and be UNAFRAID to lay hands on the very contagious lepers (in this case, the COVID-19 coughers) (Matthew 8:1-3)
• that they would rise up in the Power of Your Holy Spirit that now lives in them; the same Power that heals the sick; the same Power that raised Christ from the dead (Ephesians 1:19).   

I pray that you would stir Your people up in that Power to boldly and fearlessly look for opportunities to love on, to hug on, to lay hands on, to pray for, to talk to, to smile at, to approach people… 

• people who do not know You  
• people who have been scattered and divided because of this chaos, confusion and fear  
• people who fear death because they do not know about eternal life 
• people who have lost their jobs  
• people who have, in fact, been infected with the coronavirus  
• people who are elderly and people with autoimmune disorders, both of whom this virus can be fatal 
• people who have been infected with fear, anxiety and panic, and have nowhere else to turn 

Finally, I pray over our nation, over Israel and over every nation that has been infected with COVID-19.  Even more so, I pray over the more serious and contagious pandemic of FEAR!!  On behalf of our nation, I ask You for guidance, wisdom, and truth.  Forgive us for the greed, the lies, the murder of the innocent, following after the gods of this earth, etc.

**Customize your prayer**… Ask the Holy Spirit to provoke you to pray and intercede daily on behalf of your family, your church, your nation.  Humble yourself. Pray. Seek God’s face. Turn from your wicked ways. Repent for your nation. Then God promises to heal your land! (2 Chronicles 7:14)  

Oh, Lord, tear down not just the idols, but also the high places, that we (nations, churches, individuals) have built up and trusted in over You (pause and listen for what those might be in your life, church and nation). Please have mercy on us as You turn our hearts back to You. May Your Peace that surpasses all understanding wash over us. In Jesus mighty name I pray; with all authority and power He has given me (you have been given that same power and authority btw)… Amen!! 

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7 Then David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek, “Bring me the ephod.” Abiathar brought it to him, 8 and David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?”

“Pursue them,” he answered. “You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.”

After 16 months of raiding the Philistine villages, I’m sure David and his men were excited and eager to get home to their wives and children. However, when they got there, they found the entire camp destroyed by fire along with everything in it. Plus all of the women and children had been carried off into captivity. This was definitely not the homecoming they had hoped for.

Oh, the despair and hopelessness they all must’ve felt! How long had their wives and children been gone? What if they’ve been raped and beaten? Are they still alive? As if all these tormenting thoughts and more weren’t bad enough, now David’s equally devastated men were talking of stoning him.

Put yourself in David’s shoes. What would your natural instinct be?

I don’t know about you, but if I were the fierce warrior that David was, my natural instinct would be to prepare for battle and take off after them as quickly as possible. There’s no time to lose! Let’s go!!

In fact, I’ve done as much with far less detrimental and pressing issues in my life. For instance, in the past when my teenagers didn’t answer phone calls or reply to texts, I would imagined the worst. Then, as the anxiety grew, I would eventually take matters into my own hands, with even more phone calls and texts. What if their car was sideswiped? Worse yet, what if the reason their car was sideswiped was because they were trying to answer my phone call or text? After multiple attempts, I became that mom who called their work or their friends to hunt them down to make sure they were still alive. Needless to say, my kids learned quickly to respond with at least a simple text to let me know they were ok.

Sadly, I could’ve saved myself (and my children, lol) a lot of grief had I taken the time to inquire of the Lord. In fact, there were many times in the midst of those crazy imaginations and panic attacks that I could hear the still small voice of the Holy Spirit trying to comfort me. Inevitably though, another louder more obnoxious voice would overthrow that voice with all the “what ifs”.

But not David! He paused and took time to inquire of the Lord before taking action. Mind you, he didn’t inquire with the intent that God’s will and favor would automatically be the same as his desire. He did so in humility as he called for the priest and the ephod (which represents a garment of praise and worship)…with a decisive heart of sincere surrender. He positioned himself to hear from the Lord.

Positioning oneself to hear from the Lord takes time! Especially when the pressure is on. It takes time to quiet your anxious mind. It takes time to let go of your worst fears. It takes time to set aside the desire to do things your way. It takes time to let go of control and to completely trust God. It takes time to praise and worship a Good Father rather than blame Him (as I’ve admittedly done before) when everything seems hopeless. Time is what we usually think we don’t have in these types of situations.

David took the time to inquire of God. I sincerely believe this is one of the many reasons David was beloved of God. I don’t know about you, but I need to practice more of this when difficult moments happen in life. Shoot! I need to practice this daily.

What do you need to inquire God about? Take the time.

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Most Christians know that their highest calling, other than loving God, is to love one another (Matthew 22:36-40). The problem is that many have learned to pretend to love; perhaps even deceived themselves into thinking this pretense is genuine.

Usually people can feel the sincere love that represents Christ versus the phony love that serves self. Displaying the phony kind of love might make a person feel like a good Christian on the inside. It might even be able to fool some people looking from the outside. The thing is, God always examines the heart (Jeremiah 17:10). Even if people can’t sense the phoniness, God can!

To sincerely love, we must humble ourselves enough to ask the Holy Spirit to convict us and to show us how to love. We must examine the motives of our hearts and the thoughts in our minds. We must be honest enough to admit areas where we lack genuine love, and receptive enough to allow the Holy Spirit to put that love in us.

There are more than a few areas that I need God’s sincere love to be poured into me in order to flow freely out of me. I’ve found that the times my love is most genuine for others are times when I’m able to completely receive His unconditional (and undeserved) love for me.

Do you sincerely love God? Do you sincerely love others? Is there an area that you’re lacking? Is there someone with whom you struggle to love? Do you put on a fake smile but inwardly despise someone? Etc…

Jesus, help us love You sincerely. Help us to love others the way that You have loved us!

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“Brethren” refers to fellow believers, other Christians, the children of God.  Satan hates those who belong to God for many reasons and he constantly accuses them.  He goes before the throne room and accuses them to God.  He whispers accusations in our ears against one another.  And he has absolutely no problem accusing us by bombarding our minds with condemning reminders of our own sins and imperfections.  Sometimes they are true.  Sometimes they are false.  Regardless of whether they are true or false accusations, we must be careful not to come into agreement with the evil one. 

The more we listen to these accusations, the louder they become.  The next thing you know, we start questioning the other person’s salvation altogether.  We need to remember that we are all human and going through the sanctification process.  In other words, we all still have issues/kinks that are consistently being worked out.  We need to remember that Jesus paid a high price for ALL of us, which means we are ALL worth something to Him.

If you hear these accusatory obnoxious whispers against fellow believers (especially if it’s personal and they’ve wronged you somehow), pray for them.  Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how Jesus sees that person. Allow Him to show you how you may have done the exact same thing to someone else.  Allow Him to remind you how that person may have blessed you in the past, or a good quality/gift that the person possesses, etc. Get quiet before the ‘Lover of your soul’ (scripture) and let Him wash over you all the love that He has for that person (again, even yourself).   Choose to come into agreement with who God says the other person is and with who you are.

Who have you been listening to and agreeing with; God or Satan?  Who has been the target of Satan’s accusations in your ear? A family member? An acquaintance? A competitor? A friend who wronged you? A boss? A coworker? Yourself? 

Repent for listening.  Lift them up in prayer right now!!

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Awhile back, I read an article about some North Korean Christians who went through great lengths and dangerous struggles just to put the Bible into fellow believers’ hands. I truly felt convicted, even as someone who reads and studies God’s Word regularly. Oh how we take for granted the religious freedoms we currently have in our country!

It is sad that even though we Americans have such easy access to Bibles, we’re not very passionate about reading them. We’re definitely not willing to undergo any kind of suffering in order to do so!! In fact, many can’t even sacrifice 10 minutes of TV or social media to open up the Living Word of God. The sad truth of the matter is that many Christians rarely open their Bibles outside of church (and even less do that now that most churches post scriptures on the overhead projector).

This is a big reason most believers really don’t know the God that they claim to follow. They don’t know why they believe what they believe, so they inevitably conjure up and worship false images of God.

Jesus, who is the Word, went to great lengths (even death) to give us a relationship with Father God! Shouldn’t we do likewise with Him so that His death isn’t in vain in our lives?

Having a good relationship with someone cannot be one-sided with the occasional Sunday meeting. It can’t be cultivated with church programs or the many areas you may serve in.  A good relationship must be developed through regular and daily conversation.  

Christ’s death and resurrection bridged the gap that once separated us from our Heavenly Father.  We now have direct access to communicate with Him through prayer and reading His Word.

Today, I urge you to wipe the dust from your Bibles, open them up and read them. Perhaps you can add this to your New Year’s resolution by being determined to set aside time to do this every day.

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