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Writer's Voice! - January 19, 2019

2/1/2019

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Got Milk?

THE MERRY-GO-ROUND
Remember the fun of your parents putting you on one of the carousel horses and hearing the loud organ music play? Excitement increased as the carousel began to move. Soon each horse was going up and down. Then we were going around faster and faster. You laughed and waved at your parents each time you went by. What fun!
 
REPETITION
Now, if your parents took you to the carousel every Sunday and every Wednesday, year after year, it might not be as thrilling as it used to be. After all, everything is exactly the same, over and over again.
 
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
The LORD gave me this analogy of the merry-go-around because many churches are going round and round every week while church-goers are happy one day, down the next. Gatherings of God’s people come to hear the same style music, bland teaching with little mention of scripture, then go their separate ways without any impact from the anointing or fresh fire from the Holy Spirit who has been sent to reveal the Kingdom of God to His children and the nations.
 
“So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God. You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.” (Hebrews 6:1-3)
 
Someone said, “Well, at my church the Gospel is being preached and once in a while someone gets born again.” That’s great, for without being born again “you cannot enter the Kingdom of God.” (John 3:5) But Holy Spirit must be allowed to do ALL that He desires in our church services rather than being locked up at the back of the sanctuary.
 
The Church is not some place we go to every week, but rather who we are.
Our mission: Bring the Kingdom of God into every service and into every place we go… touch everyone you meet with His presence and joy.
 
THE END DAYS CHURCH: ADVANCE!
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14) Jesus won’t return until this is accomplished.
 
We who are on earth at this time are called to manifest the Kingdom of God as a witness, and we need to do it quickly as time is accelerating and the birth pangs are increasing. The fulfillment of God’s will must become first place in our lives so that when we stand before Jesus we will receive the crown of life. (James 1:12) Know the season you are in!
 
MANIFESTING THE KINGDOM OF GOD
Jesus Christ, His twelve apostles, then the seventy disciples, then the believers in the Book of Acts, all MANIFESTED the kingdom of God. They didn’t only preach a salvation message; they demonstrated the power and authority of God’s Kingdom over the curse!
 
As the End Generation Church matures and “does the will of My Father in heaven,” and “hears these sayings of Mine and does them,” (see Matthew 7:21-27) we will advance to the next level. But, “… if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?” (Luke 16:11)
 
What are the true riches? The anointing of the Holy Spirit! That means miracles, sign, and wonders are in manifestation.
 
“How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” (Acts 10:38) Jesus was anointed and so are you. “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.” (1 John 2:20)
 
Jesus desires to work through His Body in the same manner He did while walking on earth. The Church in every nation has His assignment to fulfill.
 
TEACHING
PREACHING THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM
HEALING
“Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.” (Matthew 9:35)
 
ASSIGNMENT 2019:
GET OFF THE MERRY-GO-ROUND!
DO THE GREATER WORKS!
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.”(John 14:12-14)

Jesus has given you His Spirit…“the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.” (John 14:17)
 
Ok, we are called to do the greater works. How do we change from going round and round, up and down, the same old thing at church every week?
 
You are vitally important. You must know who you are …in Christ. Jesus knew who He was in the Father.
“I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.” (John 5:30)   
 
Make changes in your lifestyle. Turn off your phone! Set aside more time in study/fellowship with Father. Fast and pray for yourself once a week. Seek the LORD with all your heart for an outpouring of His Holy Spirit in your life. Desire the Kingdom of God to be revealed through you. Look for opportunities to bless ... listen for the LORD'S direction.
 
PRAYER
The traditions of men choke the Word of God and block the release of His Kingdom into this realm! Pray for your Pastor to yield to God’s will. Some Churches and Church leadership are hindering the Holy Spirit. The Glorious Church is made up of many members with Jesus as the Head. It’s time for Holy Spirit to lead and move as He wills not as man wills.
 
If not, Jesus may remove His candlestick from that Church. (Revelation 2:4-5)
 
This is that…which must be released for time is short.
“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all…”
(1 Corinthians 12:7)
 
Suggested Video
How to Keep the Devil Out of Your Life: about 30 minutes. Excellent!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ten_1pL2iI4
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 1.29.19
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - January 4, 2019

1/9/2019

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God's Letter to His Children for 2019

There’s more of Me to know.
There’s more of you to know.
There’s no end to My Kingdom.
 
You were called before the foundation of the world.
You are My handiwork.
The creation is My handiwork.
The creation is calling for the sons to help. Speak the blessing to it.
Prayer releases the ability of God.
When you pray expect an answer.
 
The Bible is your mirror. See what you look like there, and not the world.
You were designed for greatness.
You are not your own. You were bought with a price.
There’s power in you.
Do not love this passing world.
Love the Father.

You are His workmanship.
You have received an anointing. It teaches you all things.
Live in faith, hope, and love.
Pay little attention to the “screaming” headlines.
There are many untruths spoken. Stay in the Word.
Live in truth.
 
You have a goal. We have a goal.
Everything is in Christ.
Follow your Leader.
Your life is hid in Christ.
You are a sojourner.
Please the Father. Walk by faith.
You haven’t seen anything yet.

The end is better than the beginning.
It’s already planned.
You’re standing on solid ground.
You are doing far more than you know.
You have abilities that are yet unseen.
The Kingdom is far, far greater than this world.
You are on the increase. Your favor is increasing.
 
You have blessed Me.
Do not be dismayed. Your best days are now.
Life is made of individual days. Enjoy life. Look at the birds.
My peace I give to you. My Kingdom I give to you.
My peace is My rest.
Be encouraged. Encourage the brethren.
Take no fear saying …
It’s all about faith.
Stay with what you know.
 
Your identity is in Christ Jesus, not the world.
Your everything is in Him.
Love is the key to fulfillment.
Faith is the substance. God does nothing without faith.
God communicates His faith by words.
His Word is His bond.
I give you the keys of My Kingdom.
 
It all adds up to: God loves you! And if God be for you who can be against you?
Romans 8:31
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 1.4.19
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - December 14, 2018

12/17/2018

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Eternity

What do the following words have in common?

TIME
MELCHIZEDEK
JESUS CHRIST
 
TIME
When did time begin? On the fourth day of Creation, God brought “time” into existence as He created the sun and the moon. A calendar year is completed as the earth goes around the sun. (Genesis 1:14-19)
 
Time is a created thing and exists only on earth.
In Heaven, in the spiritual realm, there is no time. Adam/man was created to have dominion over all the earth, including time. Example: During a fierce battle with Israel’s enemies, Joshua spoke and the “sun stood still, and the moon stopped,” for a whole day! (Joshua 10:12-14) Also, Hezekiah saw the LORD move the shadow on the sundial  backward ten degrees…about 40 minutes. (2 Kings 20:9-11)
 
God dwells in eternity.
God is always in the present where there is no future, no past. Didn’t the LORD re-name Abram to Abraham, Father of Many Nations when he was unable to conceive? (Romans 4:17) God calls things that be not as though they were because He sees the results before they are visible in the natural realm. God declares the end at the beginning. (Isaiah 46:10)

The Apostle Peter revealed, “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. (2 Peter 3:8)

Jesus taught His disciples to “believe you receive, when you pray, and you will have it.” (Mark 11:24) Faith reaches up into heaven to bring forth what is already done. Faith does not comprehend the limits of time, space, or matter. Faith overrides time and earthly circumstances. Faith operates on what God has spoken and is written. Examples: John 5:1-5, Matthew 9:28-29, and Luke 13:10-17 to name a few.
 
God’s spiritual realm does not operate according to the five-sense realm we are so familiar with, but functions in the higher realm of faith. This is how you received Jesus into your heart and became a new creation in Him.

Therefore, “the just shall live by faith.”
 
MELCHIZEDEK
Who is Melchizedek?
Only two Old Testament scriptures and a few in the Book of Hebrews give us information about Melchizedek. Here is a list of what we know of Melchizedek.  
 
After Abram’s victory over four evil armies, he retrieved his nephew Lot and all his possessions. (See Genesis 14:18-24)

  • Melchizedek is the King of Salem (Jerusalem,) which means peace.
  • Melchizedek came out to meet Abram with bread and wine.
  • Melchizedek is the priest of the Most High God.
  • The King pronounced "the blessing" upon Abram.
  • Abram gave the King a tithe of all he had conquered to the King.
 
David writes of Messiah’s reign in Psalm 110.
“The Lord has sworn
And will not relent,
’You are a priest forever
According to the order of Melchizedek.’”
 
Melchizedek lived before the Levitical priesthood was established, before Moses and The Law.
 
JESUS CHRIST
There are only a few scriptures in the New Testament that give us more understanding on this Holy Priesthood.

Let the scripture reveal Jesus’ calling as High Priest.
 
“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.” (Hebrews 4:14)

“As He also says in another place: ‘You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek…’” (Hebrews 5:6)

“… (Jesus) called by God as High Priest ‘according to the order of Melchizedek,’ of whom we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing.”(Hebrews 5:10-11)

“… where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:20)
 
As the Old Testament was pointing forward to Jesus Christ—God made flesh—Hebrews is looking back in time to get the fullness of the revelation of His assignment as eternal High Priest.
 
Hebrews 7:21-22
“For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all, first being translated ‘king of righteousness,’ and then also king of Salem, meaning “king of peace,” without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, remains a priest continually.
 
“Now consider how great this man was, to whom even the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils. And indeed those who are of the sons of Levi, who receive the priesthood, have a commandment to receive tithes from the people according to the law, that is, from their brethren, though they have come from the loins of Abraham; but he whose genealogy is not derived from them received tithes from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises. Now beyond all contradiction the lesser is blessed by the better. Here mortal men receive tithes, but there he receives them, of whom it is witnessed that he lives. Even Levi, who receives tithes, paid tithes through Abraham, so to speak, for he was still in the loins of his father when Melchizedek met him.
 
“Therefore, if perfection were through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should rise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be called according to the order of Aaron? For the priesthood being changed, of necessity there is also a change of the law. For He of whom these things are spoken belongs to another tribe, from which no man has officiated at the altar.
 
“For it is evident that our Lord arose from Judah, of which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood. And it is yet far more evident if, in the likeness of Melchizedek, there arises another priest who has come, not according to the law of a fleshly commandment, but according to the power of an endless life. For He testifies: ‘You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.’”
 
“For on the one hand there is an annulling of the former commandment because of its weakness and unprofitableness, for the law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through which we draw near to God. And inasmuch as He was not made priest without an oath (for they have become priests without an oath, but He with an oath by Him who said to Him: ‘The Lord has sworn, and will not relent, “You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek’”), by so much more Jesus has become a surety of a better covenant.”
 
TIME—MELCHIZEDEK—JESUS CHRIST
What do they have in common?

Was our Savior Jesus Christ the One who met Abram after his victory over the four kings? It is interesting to think about. We will know the answer for sure when we are with the LORD.
 
One thing is known right now, Jesus has made His body of Believers on earth right now, “kings and priests.” (Revelation 1:5-6)
 
This is that…which speaks of the Glorious Church.
“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” (1 Peter 2:9)
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 12.14.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - November 28, 2018

11/28/2018

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It's Up to You

The Professor was writing scriptures on the board as the students came in and took their seats. They were told to write the scriptures in their notebooks.
 
“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore…'” (Matthew 28:18)
 
“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons ….” (Mark 16:17)
 
“…(Jesus) who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.” (1 Peter 3:22)

“But to which of the angels has He ever said: ‘Sit at My right hand till I make Your enemies Your footstool’”? (Hebrews 1:13)

Does anyone have any questions?

Ellie raised her hand.

"Professor, I don’t understand something. All authority has been given to Jesus. Why does the Father say to His Son, 'Sit at My right hand til I make Your enemies Your footstool?'”
 
That’s a good question, Ellie.
We could say it this way: “Sit at My right hand til I make Your enemies Your footstool through The Church.” You see, Father is continuing to deal with His glorious creation; Man. Man is to dominate earth, not satan. “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion…” (Genesis 1:26)
 
ADAM AND EVE
“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’” (Genesis 1:27-28)
 
ORIGINAL INTENT
God made man like Himself to rule and reign over the earth He had made. They were in charge! One thing was required of them: obedience. Out of all the many, many trees God made, one tree had fruit that they must not eat. If they did they would die.
 
DISOBEDIENCE IS SIN
The serpent, twister of truth, lied to the woman and she ate of the fruit, being deceived. She gave to her husband, who was NOT deceived, but chose to follow his wife and eat the fruit anyway. (1 Timothy 2:14)
 
And so satan became the “god of this world,” stealing man’s authority over the earth…that is until God’s Son was born of a virgin and until the Day of Pentecost: the Birth of The Church!
 
JESUS CHRIST: THE LAST ADAM 
“And so it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit. However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural, and afterward the spiritual. The first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Lord from heaven. As was the man of dust, so also are those who are made of dust; and as is the heavenly Man, so also are those who are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man.”
(1 Corinthians 15:45-49)
 
THE MAGNIFICENT BODY OF CHRIST
As man receives Jesus Christ as LORD and Savior, man once again receives authority on earth through Jesus’ name and through His Holy Spirit that comes to live within us. That’s when we receive His anointing, the yoke destroying, burden removing power to prosper over the evil plans and schemes of the enemy. See Isaiah 10:27, Ephesians 3:9-11 & 6:10-18, & Matthew 16:18-19.
 
THE END OF THE AGE
Ellie, can you see that the original plan for man to have dominion on earth continues in our time? Through the Greater One who abides in us, Father is making man’s enemy Jesus’ footstool, and the Believer is learning to rule and reign in Christ Jesus.(Romans 5:17) Read all of Chapter 5 when you study.
 
Definition of footstool in Strong’s Concordance:
hypopódion (literally, "under the feet") – properly, a footstool; (figuratively)
(hypopódion) is a footstool used by a conquering king, to place his foot on the neck of the conquered (Souter) – i.e. those under his total dominion.
 
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BODY OF CHRIST
Students, you are very much like a Sheriff that has been deputized by the United States government to establish law and order. But many of you, through lack of knowledge, continue to beg God in your prayers to do this or that, then wonder why He doesn’t answer.

Remember, God will not do what He told you to do. 

Think of it this way.
A parent tells his son to clean up the mess in his room. The son complains about the mess and asks his dad to clean it up. And so…the mess remains because the son is not doing what he was told to do.

Each one of you has a divine destiny to fulfill. 
Get busy! Use your authority, bind and loose, in Jesus’ name. If you back down, you leave a hole, a vacancy. Don’t follow in the footsteps of the first Adam. You make the enemy Jesus’ footstool!

DOING FATHER'S WILL...OR NOT
Consider these two examples from the Old Testament.
Disobedience: The children of Israel would NOT go in to take the land. Why? Read Numbers Chapter 13 & 14.
Obedience to God: Joshua and the next generation went in to the land of Canaan and possessed it! Read Joshua 21:43-45.

This is that…which is delegated authority over satan.
“And He said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.’” (Luke 10:18-19)
 
If your Pastor is not teaching the Authority of the Believer, don’t think that is an excuse for being disobedient. There are many teachings on You Tube from godly men and women for you to study.

Recommended Video
Charles Capps: The Authority of the Believer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDVLIHamwRA
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 11.27.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - November 18, 2018

11/18/2018

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Works & Fruit

The Professor began His teaching this morning telling His students to walk in love and to walk in the Spirit, for when you do that you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 

Let’s study Galatians 5:14-26 to understand how it relates to us in the year 2018.
 
If you don’t “love your neighbor as yourself” and walk in the Spirit, you will have constant challenges because the flesh will continually challenge you. Your spirit and the Holy Spirit within you are to dominate the flesh. “But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.” That means that now you are under grace and can dominate the flesh by walking in the Spirit.
 
Josh, come up and write "the works of the flesh" on the board.
 
Adultery
Fornication
Uncleanness
Lewdness
Idolatry
Hatred
Contentions
Jealousies
Outbursts of Wrath
Selfish Ambitions
Dissensions
Heresies
Envy
Murders
Drunkenness
Revelries
 
What happens if you practice such things?
 
Josh answered, “You will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
 
Yes, that’s right. The following verse says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love…” 

When you were born again your spirit became alive with love because the Holy Spirit took up residence in you. He is God the Spirit and He is love. “But he who is joined to the LORD is one Spirit with Him.” (1 Corinthians 6:17)
 
Now Josh, write for us the fruit of the Spirit/spirit.
 
Love
Joy
Peace
Patience
Kindness
Goodness
Faithfulness
Gentleness
Self Control
 
Josh, please read verse 24.
 
“And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
 
Thank you, Josh.
 
Students, does this mean that because you are under grace that you can watch movies and listen to music that is immoral and think it will not affect you? 
Can you use foul language like the world uses? 
Can you participate in sexual behavior outside of marriage? 
Can you have close fellowship with ungodly people? 
Can you hold unforgivness toward people who have hurt you? 
Can you avoid attending church? 
Can you despise your neighbor?
 
WATCH OUT!
A lifestyle of any of the above will take you into the strong current of being worldly, going back to what you were delivered from!  “A dog returns to his own vomit,” and “a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire.” (2 Peter 2:22) 

Returning to the world can be very subtle. The Holy Spirit will prompt you before making a wrong choice, but if you ignore Him continually, your heart will become callous and deaf to His voice. That's dangerous!
 
The ball is in your court!
 
Paul writes in Romans 6:12-20:
“Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace.”
 
“What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? May it never be! Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.”
 
This is that…which bears fruit to everlasting life!
“What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.” (Romans 6:21-22)
 
Recommended Video
E.W. Kenyon Audio Book: The Hidden Man of the Heart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUI5EwimvGI
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 11.09.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - October 30, 2018

10/31/2018

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Authority

The Professor began the day's teaching writing the following on the board:
 
Everything Satan has…
He stole.
 
He was able to persuade the first Adam to sin against God’s will, and so gained access to man and the earth.
 
JESUS CHRIST: The Last Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45)
Satan tried his best to persuade Jesus in the desert, offering Him the kingdoms of the world and all their glory.

“All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.”  Then Jesus said to him, ‘Away with you, Satan! For it is written, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ” (Matthew 4:9-10)

Resistance was required for Jesus to overcome His enemy…words needed to be spoken.Jesus spoke scripture! 

He did not start begging Father for deliverance.

THE GOSPEL AND THE AUTHORITY OF THE BELIEVER
The Church of the LORD Jesus Christ is empowered with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. 

The Holy Spirit raised Jesus. 
The Holy Spirit is within you. 

Resurrection power, power that makes alive something dead, dwells in your spirit — right now!
 
THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN!
You have been deputized with power and given armor, weapons, and use of the name above all names: Jesus Christ! You are to enforce your rights as a citizen of God’s Kingdom against the enemy. 

Use your Sword…the living, powerful Word of God against him. Release words!
 
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)
 
“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.” (Acts 10:38)
 
“But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.” (1 John 2:20)
 
WAKE UP CHURCH!
Most Christians gather together every week, hear a sermon, and then go home not knowing anything about their authority over the enemy. They keep begging God to help them with this or that, but God will not do what He told YOU to do. 

That doesn’t mean we go to the other extreme and think we have to depend on ourselves.No! 

We rely on speaking scripture and we depend upon the power of the Holy Spirit within us to take authority over the enemy. 

Heal the sick! Cast out devils! 
“Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
 
Everything the devil has — he stole! That means someone allowed it.
 
If you came into your house and saw a snake in your room, would you allow it to take up residence there…ignoring it day in and day out? Of course not! Then DO something about it!
 
DELEGATED AUTHORITY
“Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you.” (Luke 10:19 AMPC)
 
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.’” (Matthew 28:18) See also: 1 Peter 3:22.
 
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)
 
“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ…” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)
 
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith…” (1 Peter 5:8-9)
 
Therefore, students, fight the good fight of faith. This is the victory that overcomes the world!
 
This is that…which has power…when YOU speak!
“For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.” (Mark 11:23)
 
Video for you: Faith Sees the Invisible…2002 — Gloria Copeland 
Powerful teaching! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zUy-BNxFOA
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 10.30.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - October 17, 2018

10/18/2018

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Food for Life

The Professor asked His students to read 1 Peter 1:23 out loud.
 
“… having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever ….”

Then, He walked over and stood behind a small wooden table that had three bowls on it, small, medium, and large, stacked on top of each other. Next to them was a large pitcher of water. (See John 4:14)
 
Today, I will give you a visual example of the Father’s “order of life.”
 
LIVING LIFE IN THE SPIRIT: Not the Fast Lane!
Believers are not like other people on earth. You are born of God’s Word!

You have learned that you are a spirit, you have a soul, and you live in a body.
(1 Thessalonians 5:23) Each of these three bowls represents the three-part being of a Believer in Christ.
 
The small bowl illustrates your spirit.
The next bowl illustrates your soul. (The mind, will, emotions.)
The larger bowl represents your body.
 
A Believer must discipline the soul and body, in order to sit, study, and pray every day. Fellowship with Father is the most important part of the day. 

This is where you receive your download of grace, love, and faith that fill your spirit man, just like when I take this pitcher of water and begin pouring water into the small bowl(spirit). As you can see, as I continue to pour the water it overflows, filling up the second bowl (soul). Your soul enters into rest as it is blessed with light and life. And lastly, as I continue to pour the water it overflows into the larger bowl (body). God’s Word produces health, strength, and medicine to all the flesh. ((See Proverbs 4:20-23) This Believer will be salt and light to the world!
 
DISCIPLES ARE DISCIPLINED
Students, this is an illustration of a true, mature disciple who has been born of the Word, the incorruptible SEED, which has every provision residing within it to meet every need you will ever have.
 
Provision was made for you before you came into existence. (Ephesians 1:1-5) And when you were born from above, you were given a Kingdom purpose to fulfill. Your life is a magnificent plan, born in Father’s heart before the earth was created! Those that remain connected to “the Vine” every day will experience adventures in the Spirit. “Christ in you, the hope of glory!” (Colossians 1:27)
 
But what would happen if that flow of water begins to diminish and cease to flow?
 
STEPS TO UNREST
“Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God…” (Hebrews 3:12)
 
“BUT, I AM SO BUSY.”
If time with Father becomes less and less because a Believer is too busy with work, children, ministry, TV, etc. — the small bowl, your spirit, will become depleted of life, leaving an opening for doubt, discouragement, and weariness to come in. This will have a nasty effect on the soul and functions of the body.

Have you ever seen the effects of drought on a large oak tree? It’s a slow death!
 
“BUT I’M SO CONCERNED ABOUT ALL THAT’S GOING ON.”
If the small bowl goes dry, the soul will start moaning and groaning about everything! Why? Your FAITH tank needs re-fueling! 

The true source of life only comes from the incorruptible SEED. Remember our opening scripture? You were born of the living Word of God! Receive the Word, receive rest for your soul! (Isaiah 26:3)
 
SATAN IS AFTER THE SEED
Days, weeks, and months of distractions can cause a Believer to be an open target for Satan’s influence and destruction. Lack of water produces dryness, and dryness can send a Christian looking for satisfaction in dark places.
 
You are a spirit, you have a soul, you live in a body. All three have needs. All three require time with Father…the Eternal source of LIFE!
 
This is that…which satisfies.
”So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” (Acts 20:32)
 
Study assignment:
Write these verses in your journal every day for the next seven days.
 
Isaiah 12:3
“Therefore with joy you will draw water
From the wells of salvation.”
 
Psalms 19:7- 8
“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes…”
 
Romans 1:17
“The just shall live by faith.”
 
Romans 8:11
“But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.”
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 10.17.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - October 6, 2018

10/10/2018

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Daily Bread

The Professor was asked to speak to a large group of intercessors, curiously most were women who are praying for the United States and the November election.
 
The Professor began by encouraging them to continue in prayer and not lose heart as the Master taught in His parable in Luke 18:1-8.
 
Just then a young man asked, “Professor, some mornings when in prayer I just feel like my prayers are flat and going nowhere. And lately, when I listen to news reports about our nation, well, I get discouraged, not seeing many results.”
 
Sometimes intercessors spend too much time watching the world’s news which can affect their feelings. "Take heed what you hear." (Mark 4:24)

Some intercessors who are so dedicated to “The Call” mistakenly let other things slip. Don’t let the call get ahead of your fellowship time with Father! You can't burn the candle at both ends. That means, don't overdo it. Be led of the Spirit in your commitments to prayer.
 
ARE YOU EATING YOUR DAILY BREAD?
Every Believer, but especially intercessors, must put God’s Word first place in their life every day. That means — sit and study!
 
Your spirit man must have strength in order to persevere. Spiritual callings require spiritual food. Why?

An intercessor stands in two realms: 
the place that needs change — and the future  “there it is!” Faith is the requirement.

Your body requires food every day, right? So does your spirit!
 
STANDING IN THE GAP
All ministries have one objective to complete — a call to fulfill:
“Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.” 

INTERCESSION
Jesus is the Chief Intercessor who works through His Holy Spirit within the Believer.  (Hebrews 7:25)

POWER
Praying in tongues can bring you into unity with the Holy Spirit to pray what He desires. You are to follow Him...not the other way around.
 
Intercessors know there is a pushing forward that is taking place in their prayer to establish God’s kingdom in our nation.  As we each take our place, we are all participating in this advancement, with the result that strength and momentum is taking place for the entire Body of Christ.
 
OVERCOMING RESISTANCE
The disciples experienced resistance many times when they were sent out to do God’s will.  One evening Jesus told them to get in the boat and go to the other side while He went to the mountain to pray.
 
Mark 6:47-52
“Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land. Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them.
 
“Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out; for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’ Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.”
 
Notice: “Straining at rowing for the wind was against them.” Even though they were obedient to do what Jesus said, they were in distress, becoming fatigued.
 
Straining — Greek definition (Strong’s): basanizó: battered; to vex with grievous pains (of body or mind); to be harassed, distressed. Interesting that one definition is: the pain of childbirth. 
 
There are different fundamentals and purposes in the ministry of intercession. One aspect that many students don’t practice in prayer is The Authority of the Believer!
 
Sarah raised her hand. “Sir,  I remember when you taught us about another event when the disciples were on the sea and Jesus was asleep in the boat. A hurricane-force wind came up and they were about to capsize. They woke Jesus and said, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’ Jesus then spoke peace to the sea and to the wind He said, 'Be still!' Then Jesus asked them, 'Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?' (Mark 4:40)
 
“Professor, when a disciple’s heart is hardened with fear and unbelief, is it hard for him to walk in faith? And, does Jesus want us to use our faith against obstructions that come to hinder or block our assignment?”
 
Absolutely yes, Sarah, to both questions! Walk in faith with authority. We can back this up with four scriptures.

Your assignment this week: Write these four scriptures in your journal every day for the next seven days and see the effect they will have when you pray.
 
This is that…
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” (John 14:12) 
 
“If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” (John 14:14)
 
“Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God…” (Hebrews 3:12)
 
“And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:18-19)
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 10.6.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - September 21, 2018

9/27/2018

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Kingdom on Earth

​The Professor asked His students to recite the LORD’S prayer.

"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name,
Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”…and so on. (Matthew 6:9-10)
 
Students, what are you asking the Father for when you say, “Your kingdom come?” What is it that you desire in your heart?
 
Beth answered, “I am asking that there will be peace in our nation.”
 
That is a godly request, Beth.
 
We can only have peace in our cities if people will treat their neighbors with kindness and respect, obeying God’s laws. Since God has given to man a free will and the right to choose, our nation suffers violence.
 
We are in the season, a prophetic time on God’s calendar called the end of the age. Two-thousand years ago, Jesus said nation will rise against nation, and lawlessness will abound because the love of many will grow cold. It is similar to the days of Noah when he was building the ark.
 
The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy:
“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
 
Now students, you know that these things are all around us. 

But the exciting thing is that you were chosen and anointed to live at the end of the age when God is going to show Himself strong. 

How? 
Through you, His body, The Church! That means, Beth, that every time you share the gospel with an unbeliever or speak kindly to an angry cashier, you are releasing God’s love, the very kingdom of God on this earth.
 
WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD?
What does the Word of God say?
“Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:16-17)
 
Beth, you are so full of joy! 
Your peace and gracious ways are opposite from many who are full of evil and walking in darkness. 

When you spend time with your Father in the morning and study scripture, He makes a heavenly deposit in you. Because of your desire to do what is right before God, you display godly values of faithfulness and truthfulness wherever you go. 

The quality of holiness is displayed in the decisions you make to live a life apart from sin. People who are in the world see your righteousness, your peace, and your joy. You are a living manifestation of the kingdom of God.
 
JESUS CHRIST
The Messiah was conceived in the womb of a virgin. His coming to earth was a manifestation of God’s kingdom. His teaching and preaching, His miracles, signs and wonders brought correction to what original sin had manifested in man and in nature.
 
“Now when He was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, ‘The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say,’ “See here!” or “See there!” ‘For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.’ (Luke 17:20-21)
 
The kingdom of God was already in the midst of them at the very time when they were asking when it would appear. 
 
Definition of Kingdom: kingship, sovereignty, authority, rule, especially of God, both in the world, and in the hearts of men. A kingdom always requires a king – as the kingdom of God does with King Jesus!
 
THE CHURCH ON EARTH
Students, the kingdom of God is within you! 
This kingdom does not appear, here or there, but rather where Christ’s Body is in operation.  That kingdom operation in a believers' heart should be followed with demonstrations of the Holy Spirit. (See Acts 5:12-16)
 
After the seven years of tribulation, during The Millennium, the kingdom of God will be in manifestation everywhere on earth as Jesus will reign from Jerusalem. 

Then, Beth, there will be peace in the nations!
 
2018 — END DAYS
How does The Church bring the kingdom of God to earth? 
By Spirit-filled believers walking in holiness and fulfilling the call of God on their lives…every day. 

Begin your day praying for the nation. Intercession opens the way for God to bring His kingdom to earth. Then ask the LORD to help you release God’s kingdom wherever you go and with whomever you meet. 

The Holy Spirit in you does the work through you!
 
This is that…
“So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.” (Read Mark 16:15:20)
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 9.21.18
https://www.prayerwithpurpose.org/this-is-that
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Writer's Voice! - September 17, 2018

9/17/2018

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Truth

As the students took their seats, the Professor was writing on the board:
 
H Y P O C R I T E
 
An unexpected hush quickly hit the room as each student waited to hear what the Professor would say next.
 
What do you think this word means?
 
“Doesn’t it mean to be two-faced, Professor?”
 
What does two-faced mean to you?
 
“Well, it’s someone who you can’t trust. Sometimes they are one way, sometimes they are another way, like being two people.”
 
The Greek word for hypocrite is hupokrites, meaning one who is like a stage actor or performer acting under a mask. Yes, it means a two-faced person, or someone who says one thing but does another. Someone who is a hypocrite is pretending to be someone they are not.
 
Dictionary definition of a hypocrite:
1. a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion
2. a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings
 
“Sir, doesn’t everyone do that at one time or another?”
 
Jesus didn’t.

But yes, Believers and the unsaved both fall into this trap.
Some people live their whole lives as a hypocrite.
 
“Why is that?”
 
Lots of reasons.
Some of this sinful behavior is passed down from generation to generation. Being fearful of what others think of them and trying to measure up to someone else’s expectations can cause one to become dishonest. All deception is based on a lie and all lies can be traced back to the fall of man when satan lied to Adam and Eve.

“Did God really say…?”
And, “You will not surely die.” (Genesis 3:1-5)
 
Now, let’s look at a conversation between Jesus and the religious leaders of His day.
 
“Then the Pharisees and scribes asked Him, ‘Why do Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?’ He answered and said to them, ‘Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written:

This people honors Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.

‘For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men—the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do. All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition.’” (Mark 7:5-9)

Notice, the hypocrite is accusing the One who is standing in truth, along with His chosen disciples. Hypocrites desire to control, desiring for others to follow them.
 
Jesus went right to the root of their hypocrisy. Their hearts were far from Him and had no desire for truth. They were fleshly, carnal people who were very prideful and felt threatened by Jesus.
 
When humility and a desire for truth are cast aside, the heart becomes hardened seeking other things for satisfaction. Lies and the doctrines of men naturally fill the void. Their dignity and self-worth were not from God but rather from other people. They were willing to adapt themselves to a lie to get approval. Hypocrites put on different masks and play many roles to gain acceptance and gain praise from others.

Unbelievers live their lives this way…empty inside.
 
But when a Believer goes against his core beliefs, a sense of condemnation can take root. As a result, his spirit man can be repressed by the demands of trying to please others as that "stage actor," putting on different masks for different people. The result is compromise.
 
For a Christian to hide his true beliefs and try and be someone else will have negative results that will affect his stability and confidence. Furthermore, it becomes difficult for him to hear from God.
 
Definition of Truth: the manifested, veritable essence of a matter, facts, authenticity, accuracy, exactness, trueness, reliability, real, ideal, genuine, proven principle, law
 
Jesus said, “…when He the Spirit of truth has come, He will guide you into all truth …”
 (John 16:13)

Beloved, repent of hypocrisy. Don't be like the world around you.
Ask the LORD to help you to always be true and speak the truth.
He has given you The Helper to help you, no matter who you are with.
Read the Who I am in Christ Scriptures every day for two weeks.
It will root truth in you.
 
This is that… which God desires of you.
“Therefore, putting away lying, ‘Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,’ for we are members of one another.” (Ephesians 4:25)
Cory, Contributing editor
​Originally published as "This is that - 8.31.18
https://PrayerwithPurpose.org
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    Writer's Voice!

    This is the blog of the  Christian Writers Guild of Santa Barbara. We hope you enjoy these timely articles about Christian writing and writers. Please let us know how these articles have helped you in your life as a writer for Christ.

    If you would like to contribute material or help in the production of Writer's Voice! please contact our editor-in-chief, Rev. Dr. Opal Mae Dailey. You can also leave us a note by making a comment to this blog.

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