Antipas Prayer Force Devotionals

58trojan23 sent you a video: "Movie Recording 14"

2012-02-15T19:53:00.000-05:00

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58trojan23 sent you a video: "Movie Recording 12"

2012-02-13T13:21:00.000-05:00

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58trojan23 has shared a video with you on YouTube: Movie Recording 12 APF DEVOTIONAL
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"You Seek Jesus...."

2012-02-13T12:56:00.000-05:00

"But he said to them, 'Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See they place where they laid Him.'" (Mark 16:6)

This is the greatest news Planet Earth ever heard. "He is risen! He is not here." The Followers of Jesus went to the only place they knew to go, the only place their "faith" was able to take them---------- the tomb. They had little precedence for any other decision. Yes, there were the examples of Enoch and Elijah as to "resurrection" power, but the likelihood of expecting an empty tomb was not in their "world." We have 2000 years of testimonial history. They did not. What emotions they must have experienced. The next verse tells us that while, "He is not here," the angel told them where they could find Him, "....He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you."

The women came to a tomb to, "seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified." We do not go to a tomb. "You seek Jesus of Nazareth." Do you? Or are you seeking "presence," anointing, bigger and better "ministry," some illusive happiness in life which just keeps avoiding you? "....Seek Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus does not avoid you, is not illusive. "And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." He just desires our hearts, "all your heart." When He has them, we have Him.

Father, in Jesus' Name, what good news, what joy and hope. Thank You. Amen.

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Pennsylvania Law Fights Shariah Law: www.jerberwash.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

When Peter, an 18 year old Norwegian, "heard the call to evangelize China, on that day he not only emptied his wallet into the collection plate, but included a small note with the words, 'and my life.'"

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

58trojan23 sent you a video: "Movie Recording 11"

2012-02-11T21:45:00.000-05:00

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58trojan23 has shared a video with you on YouTube: Movie Recording 11 APF DEVOTIONAL
© 2012 YouTube, LLC 901 Cherry Ave, San Bruno, CA 94066

"Therefore,..Even Though"

2012-02-10T13:12:00.001-05:00

"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore...." (Psalm 46)

There are four "even though's" to follow in the text. It is a given that if, "God is our refuge and strength," then whatever follows the, "Therefore," is only dependent on Him Being, "our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Yes, "Therefore," there will be trouble, and many "even though[s]," we all have accumulated in our life time. But the Holy Spirit keeps taking us back to the Subject line, "God is our refuge and strength."

Jesus stood on Planet Earth over 2000 years ago and made, what was to most, outlandish claims. "I Am................" Every, "I Am," claim of Jesus Christ reinforces our text today. "I am the Bread of Life....I Am from Him....I Am He....Before Abraham was, I AM....I am the Light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life....I am the Door....I am the Good Shepherd....I Am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die. Believest thou this?"!!??

Now, you can have all the, "Therefore," and, "even though," the world and Satan can throw at you. "Therefore we will not fear," as MLK declared, "any man or anything. 'Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.'"

Father, in Jesus' Name, You are greater than any, "Therefore," and, "even though," life can threaten. Amen.

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Muslims Murdering Christians: www.jerberwash.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

Revisit Prophetic Video: www.antipasprayerforce2.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

58trojan23 sent you a video: "Movie Recording 9"

2012-02-10T11:47:00.000-05:00

By the way, some have asked about my "YouTube" address. It is similar to an old football buddy of mine and a little "incognito." In 1958, the Johnstown High School Trojans won the WPIAL State Championship title. My number was 23.

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58trojan23 has shared a video with you on YouTube: Movie Recording 9 APF DEVOTIONAL
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Open Eyes, Ears, and Hearts

2012-02-09T13:16:00.001-05:00

"Thus the LORD said to me: 'Go...to the Euphrates...." (Jeremiah 13)

The video devotional today is different from this one, but, hey, that's the limitless reach of the, "Words of God."

Our text was particularly interesting to me today because of all the planning for the upcoming mission to Berlin---- "praying on site with insight." The Word of God told Jeremiah to go some place, do something, and make an observance. There is just some praying which cannot be done anywhere but where the Lord Jesus Christ leads. No, wait; maybe there is nowhere we can pray if we are not "where" Jesus Christ is.

You are there, now. Look around. Okay, maybe "just" the house, the kitchen, or, maybe an office cubicle, school, Iphone on the highway (Oh, yea, be very careful about that), wherever. It is a prayer closet, full of things to see, literally, and in the Holy Spirit. Open eyes and hearts see and hear, "what the Spirit is saying to the churches"----------------- and to the nations.

Father, in Jesus' Name, give me eyes to see, ears to hear, heart to obey. Amen.

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Access Both Devotionals: www.apfdevotionals.blogspot.com

News, Commentary: www.jerberwash.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com ;

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

58trojan23 sent you a video: "Movie Recording 5"

2012-02-09T12:52:00.001-05:00

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58trojan23 has shared a video with you on YouTube: APF Devotional Movie Recording 5 APF DAILY DEVOTIONAL
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"Redeemed...From the Curse of the Law"

2012-02-07T13:10:00.000-05:00

"Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree.')," that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Holy Spirit through faith." (Galatians 3:13, 14)

My Bible reading recently had me in Deuteronomy 28. If you are familiar with that passage, you remember that it is full of blessings and cursings. A very scary reality is that the promise of blessings only require 14 verses; the curses require 54 verses!

As I was walking around the neighborhood last evening and listening to the Deuteronomy passage, our text came to mind. It "surfaced" during the Charismatic Renewal in the 1960's. But last evening, what a great joy came to me to realize that of all the curses I would be under, because of all my sin, rebellion, etc., "Christ has redeemed [me] from the curse of the law, having become a curse for [me]." No more, "curse of the law."

Caution: Romans 6 tells us, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."

Father, in Jesus' Name, help me today to come into a greater living of, "Christ has redeemed us from he curse of the law." Thank You. Amen.

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Sorry, but I have been receiving Mailer Daemons saying that the video devotional "exceeds fixed maximum message size."

Today's Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

Still Working on getting the News Blog up again-- Will send some things directly.

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"I Will Go About YOUR Altar, O LORD"

2012-02-06T12:54:00.001-05:00

"I do not sit with false persons, nor fellowship with pretenders; I hate the company of evildoers and will not sit with the wicked. I will wash my hands in innocence, and go about Your altar, O LORD, that I may make the voice of thanksgiving heard and may tell of all Your wondrous works." (Psalm 26:4-7, Amplified Bible)

One former Republican Primary Candidate and most so-called "conservative" leaders are revealing themselves to be "conservatives," but are not thinking or acting like people of the Kingdom, "of our Lord and of His Christ," Jesus. They are politicians. The last I heard, most conservatives still can't make up there minds as to whom they are going to support for the Republican Party's Presidential Nominee. I read this morning an article which stated that in the Nevada Caucuses last Saturday, Romney won "self-identified conservatives, tea party supporters, evangelical Christians, and all income groups except those making less than $30,000 a year." There is no candidate whose positions reflect the teachings of Jesus Christ more than Rick Santorum. Yet even so-called "evangelical christians," are still vacillating on support. They spend too much time in, "the company of evildoers...and with the wicked," or, as the NKJV says, "have...sat with idolatrous mortals." Dear reader, I can say with absolute certainty: The GOP, even Fox, has plenty of both.

Anytime I pray for anything or anyone, my prayers are Bible Prayers, which are, "God-Breathed," prayers, not Republican or Democrat or Libertarian or Socialist or Communist or Capitalist or, or. Now some would say, "Pray your own prayers." Bible prayers are "my own." The only, I repeat, only antidote for wrong thinking is, "sound doctrine," which can only be found in the Bible. The alternative to, "sound doctrine," is unsound doctrine. I submit that if those who name the Name of Jesus Christ would become a serious Bible student, they would not be fooled, duped, deceived by politicians or anyone else for that matter. I don't vote "party;" I vote Kingdom.

In our text, King David makes a vow while he is praying. He realizes that there is only one way to walk in blessing. "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His Law he meditates day and night." Maybe a little less 'Fox," and a lot more, "in His Law."

Father, in Jesus' Name, "Keep Me Near the Cross," because, "In the cross, be my glory ever," in You, Jesus, in You, Holy Spirit, in, "the faith of Jesus," Your "God-Breathed," Words. Amen.

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I changed something on our News, Commentary Blog and the Blog has not shown up yet. Will keep you posted.

Today's Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Antipas Prayer Force, Weekend Edition

2012-02-05T09:33:00.001-05:00

"Behold, He who keeps Israel (and you) shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade at your right hand....The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming from this time forth, and even forevermore." (From Psalm 121)

I read the article below last evening and thought, Jesus does things His way-----

marvelous, wondrous ways. If we take our text, not just as a promise to individuals, but see the reality of this to the Nation of Israel and the Church of Jesus Christ, who in his right mind could argue with the faithfulness of God here? Israel is still here; the Church is still here------ and so are you, and so am I, and so we will always be, "Because I live, you will live also" (Jesus). "And thus we shall always be together with the Lord" (Paul).

Father, in Jesus' Name, thank You for Your Word Who goes way, way beyond my very, very limited understanding. Amen.

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"Christian Schmidt, [German] secretary of state for defense-- 'The security of the State of Israel is a German concern and this will not change.'"

Read more at: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Today's Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Fwd: "....Faith Is...."

2012-02-03T11:31:00.001-05:00

"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand...."(Ro. 5:1, 2a, from yesterday's first quarter reading)

My justification for acceptance into the Family and Kingdom of God is, "by faith," simply believing everything spoken, "through our Lord Jesus Christ," Who Himself is, "The Word of God." Everything" integral to what the Bible calls, "the faith of Jesus," is, "the faith of Jesus," not of me. Now I am called to exercise that Faith, but it is resident only in Jesus Christ. Faith is believing, trusting, obeying Jesus Christ, "The Word of God;" forgive me, but it is that simple. Now it is not as though I'm an expert, but I can read, and all my reading of the, "God-Breathed," Words tells me this. For too many people the attempt at the "faith-life" is like pushing the old workout sled in football, grunt, grunt, grunt, "come on, five more yards!" For too many, it is an attempt to find that right "worthiness," that right "confession," that right mental comprehension that will pivot us into the realm of, say, a Smith Wigglesmith, who is often referred to as "The Apostle of Faith."

Yet there was nothing "magical," or cleverly formalized about Wigglesmith's faith. He once said, "If it is in the Bible, it is so. It's not even to be prayed about. It's to be received and acted upon. Inactivity is a robber which steals blessings. Increase comes by action, by using what we have and know. Your life must be one of going on from faith to faith....How can one come to possess great faith? Now listen, here is the answer to that: First, the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. Faith must grow by soil, moisture, and exercise" (emphasis mine). I repeat, Fellow Believer, our faith is, "the faith of Jesus."

If Jesus Christ is resident in you and me, so is, "the faith of Jesus." You and I need not struggle, conference and book ourselves to death. "Be still, and know that I am God....We are His people and the sheep of His pasture." He is saying to you and me today, "The faith you seek is My Faith, and, as I have said to you, 'If you abide in Me and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.'"

Father, in Jesus' Name, I surrender any of my faith for Your Faith. Amen.

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There Are Several Great New Prophetic Articles at: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"....Faith on Man's Part...Generosity on God's"

2012-02-02T13:07:00.001-05:00

"The whole thing, then is a matter of faith on man's part and generosity on God's. He gives the security of his own promise to all men who can be called 'children of Abraham', i.e. both those who have lived in faith by the Law, and those who have exhibited a faith like that of Abraham. To whichever group we belong, Abraham is in a real sense our father, as the Scripture says: 'I have made you a father of many nations'. This faith is valid because of the existence of God Himself, who can make the dead live, and speak his Word to those who are yet unborn." (Romans 4:16, 17-- J. B. Phillips Translation)

I received a KJV from my paternal grandparents when I was six years old. I started reading it as soon as I could, because, of course, my Granddad "hung the moon." Anyway, when I was 15, my Dad gave me a Phillips Translation of the New Testament, and every night before I went to bed I read a chapter. One night at our high school football camp, one of the guys noticed that I was reading from it as well as the old E.U.B devotional, "The Upper Room." He asked what I was reading and when I told him, he said, "Why don't you read it to all of us." The Senior cabin captain objected that it might offend his Serbian Orthodox tradition. Whatever, Phillips had a great impact on my young life.

The text today reveals the great truth of Jesus' statement, "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad." This is how Old Testament people were "saved." They looked forward to the appearing of Jesus; we look "back." They looked forward to the Cross; we look back. But it is all about Jesus Christ, His Passion, His Blood, His Cross, His Death, His Resurrection, His Second Appearing. Muslims all around the world are having visions of Jesus. Just because we have not heard it ourselves, does not mean that it is not happening to Hindus, Buddhists and people of other religions. Paul told the people of Lystra, "....but He never left them without evidence of Himself and His goodness." Maybe some say, "What about those who never heard." I say, How do you know they haven't?!?

The Holy Spirit tells us in Galatians, "Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree') that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith....Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham?" Prior to today's text, we read in the Amplified Bible, "For he is not a [real] Jew who is only one outwardly and publicly, nor is [true] circumcision something external and physical. But he is a Jew who is one inwardly, and [true] circumcision is of the heart, a spiritual and not a literal [matter]. His praise is not from men but from God." This last statement it key.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I am so very thankful that even though all of us Gentiles, "....at that time...were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without [You] in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." Amen.

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"First They Came For the Catholics": www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"The LORD Is My Shepherd"

2012-02-01T08:22:00.001-05:00

"The LORD is my Shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1)

I am taking some powerful meds for a bad sinus infection, and did not sleep well last night. I was running through my head (and heart) some of the Psalms I have memorized. Our text was one of them. Glorious memorization of elementary days in Sunday School, but no one, not even super apostles, ever outgrows the blessing and need of this most famous of Psalms.

The Amplified says, [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack." I heard Derek Prince once say that the literal Hebrew translation is, "The Lord-My Shepherd-no want." The word, "want," means "no lack, no decrease." Jesus is My Good Shepherd, and no one takes care of a sheep like, "The Lord My Shepherd," Jesus. In Jesus Christ there are, "green pastures," and, "still waters," i.e., "waters of resting." And what is so wondrous to all hurting people today, "He restores my soul."

Do you need restoration today? You have "it" in Him, Jesus. "He restores my soul," and the soul of all those who humbling seek Him. Another Psalm of memorization says, "When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto Thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek." To all the humble who, "Seek ye my Face," restoration is yours. What does, "Seek My Face," mean? He does not tell us; it is ours to discover.

Father, in Jesus' Name, You are my Refreshing and Restoration, my, "green pastures," and my, "waters of resting."------------- "no lack," is mine. Amen.

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"Our World and the Washington Establishment": www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com ;

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Men WILL Fear the Name of the Lord" Jesus Christ

2012-01-31T13:02:00.001-05:00

"From the west, men will fear the name of the LORD, and from the rising of the sun, they will revere his glory. For He will come like a pent-up flood that the breath of the LORD drives along." (Isaiah 59:19, NIV)

The KJV puts the emphasis on, "When the enemy shall come in...." But from all I have researched over the years, the "emphasis" here is The Lord Jesus Christ Himself, "For He will come." I know I emphasize this ad nauseam to some, but Biblical Theology reveals that there is only, "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism," ----- not an Old Testament "Lord" and a New Testament, "Lord," or, "faith," or, "baptism." God is One, Father, Son, Holy Spirit. When Father speaks, it is His Word, as in the Word revealed in Revelation, "dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His Name is the Word of God," Jesus. I love sound theology.

Our text is of course prophetic. Christ's first appearing was to the Jews and Gentiles, and, not the least, to Satan Himself, "like a pent-up flood that the breath (Holy Spirit) of the LORD drives along." This was the Devil's undoing; this was the nations' undoing, and it was the undoing of rebellious Jews also. In other words, Universe, you can get on or get run over, it is your choice and your choice alone. But be assured, "He will come like a pent-up flood."

Earlier in Isaiah 59 we read, "Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear." So, you see, the section begins with a promise to, "us who are saved," and a threat to those who are unbelieving. The passage goes on to reveal the utter moral depravity of the human condition, "rebellion and treachery against the LORD, turning our backs on our God, fomenting oppression and revolt, uttering lies our hearts have conceived....Truth is nowhere to be found." We are then told, "The LORD looked and was displeased," with all of this. "He was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so His own arm worked salvation for Him, and His own righteousness sustained Him." The passage concludes with our text; from the "four corners" of the earth, "men will fear the name of the LORD," Jesus Christ. Hang in their, weary traveler, the dam is about to break!

Father, in Jesus' Name, Let it break. Amen.
Great Article on World Jewry: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Welcome to Comfort Inn

2012-01-30T13:04:00.001-05:00

"So He said, 'I will certainly be with you. And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.'" (Exodus 3:12)

Notice that the Word of God always speaks of things done. We tend to pray, think, and speak of things that might be. Let me paraphrase. "'And this shall be a sign to you,' concerning all I say. When it comes to pass, and it certainly will, then you will know that My Words always come to pass; therefore, there should never be any doubt in your mind that what I speak is already DONE."

I preached in Exodus 3 & 4 this past Sunday. The phrase, "I will certainly be with you," has been staying with me. It looks like a simple phrase, but nothing God says is "simple." He wrote the book on profundity. "Certainly," or beyond all doubt, or you can base your entire life on this, "I will be with you." What more did Moses need? What more do you and I need?----- "Certainly, I will be with you."

What, "The Word of God," Who is Jesus Christ, spoke to Moses on the backside of that mountain, He would later say to His first century disciples, and to all, "those who believe in His Name....I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you." This is unimaginable, unspeakable joy and glory. This, my friend, is what the Cross made possible, "I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you." In Jesus Christ, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me," is changed to, "for Thou art [in] me."

If someone is with me, they may come and go. Jesus Christ is in me; hence, His Presence does not. He is "where" I am, not just somebody's meetings. The Living Triune God, Father, Son Jesus, and Holy Spirit is in me. I don't leave His Presence or come to His Presence, because I do not leave Him or come to Him. Because of the Cross, the Blood of Jesus, all Followers of Jesus can boldly say, "I will fear no evil; for Thou art [in] me." In America we have a hotel chain called "Comfort Inn." This is "Comfort IN"------------------- and you and I are there.

Father, in Jesus' Name, no greater miracle, no greater mystery, no greater joy than, "Thou art [in] me."

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Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Righteous Among the Nations": www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"You Prepare a Table Before Me"

2012-01-27T13:16:00.000-05:00

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies...."(Ps 23:5a)

I awoke at 03:00 and this came to me, so I thought I would share it.

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death," it is there our Good Shepherd, Jesus, spreads a feast for you and me, and He invites us to dine with Him, right there, "in the presence of mine enemies." It is said of Field Marshal Montgomery that no matter how intense the battle, he would always partake of the British "afternoon tea." I wonder if that was unnerving to the enemy, that even though the threat was great he could not take away "the table." In today's early morning hours, the thought came to me that I could say to His Satanic Majesty, "So you are threatening me? Well, watch while I eat a great meal with my Good Shepherd."

"....The Lord Jesus On the same night in which He was betrayed took bread," On that night our Lord Jesus did not just "institute" Communion. He prepared, "a table before," them. It was a lavish Passover Meal, much food and drink. The darkest hour of the three and a half year sojourn with the disciples was upon them and our Lord. He was facing betrayal, mockery, beatings, torture, and the unimaginable, "even the death of the cross." Yet here He was, "a table before [Him] in the presence of my enemies." Jesus wrote the book on "No Fear."

A footnote here: John 20: 7 says, "And the napkin, that was about His head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself." I have heard explanations for this, but I read a piece about table manners which said that the purpose of the folded napkin is "to signal to servers that the person who is eating is not finished yet and will be returning. Once the person is finished, they will crumble the napkin." How about a good old Marine "OORAH!" here.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I thank You for the promise that I need not worry or fret in any situation. I can sit down with and in You at Your Table. Amen.

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Read, "Obama's Rules for Revolution": www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Extravagant Love

2012-01-26T13:06:00.002-05:00

"....A woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table." (Matthew 26:7)

We then read that the "communists" around that table said, "Why this waste?" I wonder if they would have said what they did if they only realized in Whose Presence they were, as if Jesus were insensitive to, "the poor." This was love, appreciation, thanksgiving and worship, "poured on His Head."

Only the people who know Jesus can understand, "Why this waste?"!! To you and me this is no waste, no waste in anything we do to and for Jesus Christ, no waste in worship, prayer, serving and caring for people, loving neighbor as ourselves-------no waste. Nothing of love, affection, thanksgiving, worship is too extravagant for Jesus, of Whom Titus 2:14 tells us, "....gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works." You and I are a part of, "His own special people"; think of it, "His own special people." This is not humanistic "special people" This is Divine, "Own special people."

The physical body of our Lord is not "here" today, and we have no oil to pour on His Head. But Jesus said, "It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you." Yet each day you and I have ample opportunities to pour oil on the Head of our Lord Jesus Christ. We pour, "fragrant oil on His Head," by prayerful worship, feeding in and obeying His Words, "go and do thou likewise," to humanity, and, "inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."

Father, in Jesus' Name, help me today to see the many opportunities to open my, "alabaster flask." Amen.

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Read: Iraq is "Breaking Apart": www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

What About Your Capitol City?

2012-01-25T13:08:00.001-05:00

"For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar." (Acts 24:11)

It is a sad day indeed when a Covenant person has to, "appeal to Caesar," against other Covenant people. Yet Paul new that if he went back to Jerusalem, he would most likely be killed; hence, "I appeal to Caesar."

I also suggest another reason, however, for Paul's, "appeal to Caesar." It is found in his letter to the Philippians, "All the Christians here would like to send their best wishes, particularly those who belong to the emperor's household" (Phillip's N. T.). The Book of Acts takes us from Jerusalem to Rome, eventually right into, "the emperor's household." Paul took "the battle for the hearts and minds of men" right into the living quarters of the Empire's "chief executive."

Paul's previous journeys had taken him to major cities of the Roman Empire. You will remember Athens, Capitol of the Ancient Greek Empire, center of intellectual rebellion against the Living Triune God, but where Paul led the "seekers" of Mars Hill to Jesus, and Corinth, capitol of the Achaia Province, "which included southern Greece." And, it is written of our Lord Jesus, "And He went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem." Now we know that He was, "journeying toward Jerusalem," because, as He said, "....it cannot be that a prophet should perish outside of Jerusalem." But why? In a sense, Jerusalem had become a stronghold against the reign of God in Israel, and it was there Jesus, "destroyed the works of the Devil." Another reason? Jerusalem is the Capitol of, "city of the great King," to which He will return. All this reveals that God is God of "strategic" cities. I believe this is the reason that He charged me with Jerusalem, Berlin, Washington, DC.

I believe also there is something to be said of state capitols and county seats. Have you ever considered prayer journeys to yours? Why have capitol cities been the ultimate objective in war? They are the seats of authority, power, the laws, and the place where all decisions are made which affect a people group. Impact the capitols and you impact the culture. Precedent? In just 3 centuries the Followers of Jesus took over the Roman Empire.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I pray for provision to continue to storm the capitols. Amen.

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"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Bouncing Off the Walls

2012-01-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

"They wandered in the wilderness in a desolate way; they found no city to dwell in....Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them out of their distresses. And He led them forth by the right way...." (Psalm 107:4, 6, 7)

When I was a little boy, we used to go to Kennywood Park, just across the river from our home in McKeesport, which is in the Pittsburgh, Pa Metro Area. I don't remember the name of it, but one of my favorite rides was a car you got in and it went around a curvy track. The great thing about it was that you could actually steer the car and keep it from hitting and bouncing off the sides of the track. On the other hand, if you let go of the wheel the car would just bounce back and forth between the railings of the track.

Life is like that. Be intentional and allow Jesus to steer then we travel a straight course. Take the "I'll-take-my-chances," hands off approach, and we are just like that little car, literally "banging off the walls."

"The wilderness," was not God's intention for the Jews. "They wandered in the wilderness," because, as the previous Psalm tells us, "they... rebelled by the sea." The Hebrews could have taken a straight course to the Land of Promise. Instead, they let go of the "wheel," and, "wandered," back and forth, "in the wilderness."

Every time I go through the Bible I see this principle at work: God has given humanity a lot of leeway in our sojourn. Just look at life around you and you see an abundance of ungodly, "banging-off-the-walls" activity. When we rebel, we are like that little car bouncing back and forth against life, or, as the Jews in our text, just going down one wrong path after another. Yet the faithfulness of our Lord Jesus Christ is like that railed track. Every redeemed soul should be thankful that even though we bounce back and forth in our self-will, as we look back on our lives we see the "Railing" of God. He has not allowed us or the nations to go completely off "track." And to those who, as the prodigal, "came to himself," the amazing grace of Father is revealed, "Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them out of their distresses. And He led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city for a dwelling place."

Father, in Jesus' Name, my self-will has too often taken me to the "edge." Thank You for keeping me. Amen.

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Hebrews 12:2

Who Are, "My Anointed Ones"?

2012-01-23T13:03:00.000-05:00

"Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm." (Psalm 105:15)

God will deal with all those who disobey this command. We can, however, take another lesson from our text. "'Touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets' [good]."

"The Word of God," our Lord Jesus Christ, loves and cares for His People. If He reigns in me, I will do the same. Any time we invest in, pray for, "touch...and do...prophets," good, Father smiles upon us. It is incumbent upon us, though, to keep in mind in this age of bishops, apostles, and "super apostles," that, "My anointed ones," are not just people who "get paid" to be such, i.e., "full-time" people. Any person in whom Jesus Christ lives is a part of, "My anointed ones."

Too many times religious people associate "anointing" with powerful preaching, smooth-mouthed teachers, "deeply spiritual" leaders, or, "Wow, what great revelation and power," and show little respect, if any, for "common" fellow Believers. The Bible tells us there is an anointing upon all who Follow Jesus Christ, and we would all be the wiser if we would listen also to those who do not carry the tags.

John was writing to all Followers of Jesus when he penned, "As for you, the anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as His anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit--just as it has taught you, remain in him." The, "anointing teaches You," and me to, "remain in him." If you want to discern, "the anointing," which is, "His anointing," look for those who, "remain in Him."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I realize that Your, "anointed ones," are not just "full time" ministers. Show me more and more opportunities to "touch" your anointed ones wherever and whenever I can. Amen.

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Hebrews 12:2

"God-Who-Forgives"

2012-01-20T12:36:00.000-05:00

"You answered them, O LORD our God; You were to them God-Who-Forgives, though You took vengeance on their deeds." (Psalm 99:8)

This is a seeming contradiction: "God-Who-Forgives...took vengeance...." I will not attempt some "deep" exegesis here.

The reality of human existence is that any may receive forgiveness of sin in our Lord Jesus Christ, but this does not mean forgiveness cancels the effect of sin. I am thankful that my sins are forgiven and that because of the Blood of Jesus Christ He, "cast all our sins into the depths of the sea," and, "as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." What is most disturbing, however, and should give us all cause to be very careful as to how we live, is that every sin has a cause and effect reality. It's called, consequences. Forgiveness does not deal with consequences. I am not asserting this as "sound theology," but it could be that, "vengeance on their deeds," is, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap." People blame God for so much, some for everything, yet the truth is that man insisted on his own way in the Garden, and has been doing so every since. "But My people would not heed My voice and Israel would have none of Me. So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart, to walk in their own counsels."
Could this be the, "vengeance," of which our text speaks?

A group of us are gathering later this month in a house meeting to share communion, aka, The Lord's Table, together. Our participation in the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ is our life, our forgiveness, our eternal salvation. Historically this has been the focal point of Christian fellowship. I can think of nothing more wonderful for Followers of Jesus than to share His Table. Here, in Jesus Christ's Body and Blood, we find forgiveness, "joy unspeakable," peace. Here, though we all bring the consequences of our sin, we also bring our love for one another, our grace, our understanding. You and I cannot change the sowing and reaping cycle. We can, though, show grace and mercy to one another, just as Our Lord does to us-- "God-Who-Forgives."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I may bemoan the consequences of things which I have put in motion, but I fully accept responsibility for them, and thank You that You are, "God-Who-Forgives." Amen.
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Hebrews 12:2

What Is The Call Of Jesus To Humanity?

2012-01-19T12:49:00.001-05:00

"If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." (Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 19)

Evangelicals have said of Jesus' encounter with the "rich, young ruler," that our Lord was not saying that keeping the law would save him, but, I guess, some "sinner's prayer" would. I have led people in "the sinner's prayer," and there is indeed something in it which speaks of coming to Father in Jesus Christ. One must always keep in mind, however, that while there are Biblical principles contained in it, it can mislead us in regards to the Law of God. We must be very careful with this evangelical fear that people will get the wrong understanding of The Law of God. Each of the commandments which Jesus told the young man to keep are just as applicable today as they were on Sinai----------------------

and to that searching young man.

"If you want to be perfect (complete)," was the key. The Law without a life of following Jesus Christ is useless. This is not a disparagement of the Law, rather, it is an affirmation of the Bible as a whole, complete, that one part without the other is incomplete. A person can labor to keep The Law so that he can go to Heaven, but without a surrendered life to Jesus Christ, Heaven is unattainable. This is what Jesus was saying to this self-made young man. He did right in that he kept the law, but Luke's record says, "You still lack one thing....follow Me."

Our Lord Jesus did not come to start a know-what-you-need-to-know-just-to-get-by religion. He came to bring us to completion/perfection, in other words, to Himself. John 14 says that Jesus came so that we can, "come to the Father...by Me." I suggest this as perfection: Follow Jesus and He will bring us to Father so that we in Jesus in the Holy Spirit will be in Father in Jesus in the Holy Spirit Eternally."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I pray for a continual attitude of, "sell all that you have and distribute to the poor..; and come, follow Me." Amen.

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Hebrews 12:2

How To Feel Good About Yourself

2012-01-18T12:57:00.001-05:00

"O LORD, be gracious to us; we have waited for You. Be their strength every morning, Our salvation also in the time of distress." (Isaiah 33:2, NASB)

Our text is from this quarter's Major Prophets reading. It could not have been more timely. I receive a monthly prayer guide from Open Doors and the following request was posted for today, January 17. It comes from the country of Ethiopia. "Another church in western Ethiopia has been looted by Muslims. The area is notorious for hostile behavior towards believers. Recently, two [believers] were beaten to death attending secret believers meetings. Church leaders say the situation is getting worse and ask supporters to earnestly pray for the church elders to lead with divine wisdom and be strong for their members."

People like to "feel good about themselves." They like devotionals which aid that pursuit. And I can say that I never "feel better" about myself than when I am walking in obedience to Jesus Christ and His Words, "pray for one another." This, "one another," does not mean just those in our local congregations, house meetings, or circle of friends. "One another," means the Church, the global Church. "One another," is any Brother or Sister in Jesus Christ whom I know or know of who needs prayer, from the "smallest" prayer need to a survival prayer need. It is a most glorious life style!

You should have received a notice I forwarded to you to join in praying for Followers of Jesus Christ in the 50 top hostile regimes in the world for the coming year. It features a hostile regime each week. Please join me in praying our text for our Brethren in Jesus Christ in Ethiopia, "Father, in Jesus Name, I pray that You will, "be gracious to [them]; [they] have waited for You. Be their strength every morning, [their] salvation also in the time of distress." Amen.

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Hebrews 12:2

"Who Then Is the Greatest In the Kingdom...."

2012-01-18T12:51:00.000-05:00

"At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, 'Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?' Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.'" (Matthew 18:1-3)

Instead of sending the child to children's church, Jesus said he is a prime example. Paraphrase: "This child can teach you something. Watch him."

I wonder how many of us ever, "become as little children." According to Our Lord Jesus, this is the basis for entering, "the kingdom of heaven." I have noticed over the years that the younger people are, the more open they are to input, the wonder of life, more observant. The older they get the disease of boredom moves in, a person becomes more of a know-it-all. This is probably the reason for the statement, "Give us a child until he is 8 years old, then you can have him." I have often heard people say that when they first received Jesus they could not get enough of the Bible, went to every meeting they could get to, read everything. Then what happens? No matter what the answer, the root is, "I'm maturing; no one can teach me anything I don't already know."

Our Lord goes on to say, "Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Okay; now think of that person whom you think to be, "the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Do they show any characteristics at all of a 2 or 3 year old? Resist making a joke and seriously consider this. Observe a 2 or 3 year old, a teenager----------------- and yourself, "these three; but the greatest of them is,"--------- "become as little children."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I pray for a restored wonder of life in You. Amen.

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"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Christ Crucified-- The Power and Wisdom of God"

2012-01-16T14:11:00.001-05:00

"....We preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." (1 Corinthians 1:23, 24)

A young man, whose grandparents have been a part of Sarah and me for over 40 years, is a YWAM leader. He is leading a team to Germany today, and part of the schedule includes three weeks in Berlin. They arrive in Berlin on January 22. He asked for "any spiritual insight you may have from your time there." The following is what I wrote to him:

My only "insight" is that this is the capitol, and it has had significance for the German for centuries, even before unification under Bismark in the latter 19th century. The militarism of Prussia has been, and I believe still is, a dominating "spirit" in Germany. I would recommend a stop at what I call the "Bismarck complex just a few meters from the famous Grosser Stern (Victory Column). I'm sure you will see some of what I mean. Also, you will see from this complex the extremely high importance the German places on wisdom and intellect. I once preached from 1 Corinthians 1: 18-31 in a church meeting. One of the pastors said to me afterwards, "This is what Germany needs."

The German People Group is indeed a great people. They have given the world some of my favorite people, e.g., Jan Huss, Count Zinzendorf, Auguste Franke, just to name a few. But they also gave the world Friedrich Nietzsche, Karl Marx, and Adolph Hitler; they have given some of the best and worst of humanity. They are no worse nor any better than any people group, yet I believe deeply that they have a destiny which no other people group has. Their history of militarism and worship of the wisdom of man will some day be at the heart of "the final conflict."

This wisdom-worship spirit dominated the ancient world also. It's "capitol" was Greek philosophy, "....Greeks seek after wisdom...." This spirit has battled the Church through the ages, took over the major universities in America, and has led to the downfall of Western Christianity as the leader of the Global Church of our Lord Jesus Christ. One of the figures in the Bismarck Memorial in Berlin is a "sibyl reclining on a sphinx and reading the book of history." The word "sibyl" is from a Greek word meaning "prophetess." Here is what the Greek writer, Heraclitus, wrote: "The Sibyl, with frenzied mouth uttering things not to be laughed at, unadorned and unperfumed, yet reaches to a thousand years with her voice by aid of the god." Well, Heraclitus, there is also someone else who "reached to a thousand years," which is why, "We preach Christ crucified."

Father, in Jesus' Name, deliver me from any "Sibyl" spirit in the world. Amen.

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Beware the, "Why? and, "I Do Not Deserve This"

2012-01-16T14:01:00.001-05:00

"In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong....Why do You hide Your face, and regard me as Your enemy?" (Job 1:22 & 13:24)

The word, "why," in our text is used at least 21 times in the Book of Job. Most have heard over our life time someone ask the question, "Why did God allow this to happen to me?" The assumption seems to be that the questioner is so righteous and good and deserving that he/she finds God guilty of gross unfairness and injustice. I see no justification in such a question. If I pray with any sense that I "deserve" an answer, I am praying wrongly. "Answers" to our prayers come only from Father's Grace in Jesus Christ and Christ's Atoning Blood, not my worthiness. If we want to discuss what I "deserve," well, you just do not want to "go there." I highly suggest that if "deserve" is found somewhere in your theology, you remove it immediately. Nothing good will come of it.

Winds of War and War and Remembrance are two historical novels by Herman Wouk. In the latter work there is a monologue of one of the leading characters who is interred in a concentration camp where German authorities require Jews to refer to themselves as, "the stinking Jew." Orders have been given for transport to the East, and the night before one of the trains is to leave the camp, Aaron Jastrow, writer and professor, is scheduled to give a lecture. I have never read any work on the subject of human suffering that is any better:
"My Thereseinstadt friends, I have no heart tonight for a lecture. I will put aside my professorial notes. They are neat, bloodless, and irrelevant. My topic was to be the book of Job. That's what I'll talk about, but not as a professor, as one of you: the Theresienstadt Jew. Satan said to God--do you remember?--"Naturally Job is upright, seven sons, three daughters, the wealthiest man in the land of Uz. Why not be upright? See how it pays. Job is not upright. He's just a smart Jew," sneers Satan. "But take away his rewards, and see how upright he will remain." So God allows Satan to put Job through every trail but death. All his children die. All his wealth is wiped out. A horrible sickness strikes him. And so, reduced by a whim of God, to a broken, loathsome, plundered skeleton, covered with sores, Job sits on the ash heap. "Naked I came from the womb," he says. "Naked will I return. God has given. God has taken away. Blessed be God's name." Job has stood up to Satan's test. The oldest problem in human existence: senseless evil. But now comes a worse trial, a worse test. Job's comforters come. Passionately, they urge him to admit that since God is just, Job must have committed some terrible sin. "Search your deeds. Repent. Confess." But Job fights back. "I have not sinned. I will submit to the divine will, but not to pious platitudes." And so, in the depths of his most terrible hour, Job rises to stand toe-to-toe with God, and demand an answer to the great ultimate human mystery of senseless evil. "Why do you do this to me?" Well, Job gets his answer. An answer that answers nothing. God himself speaks to Job at last out of a roaring storm. "Who are you to call me to account? Can you hope to understand how or why I do anything? My universe is vast beyond human conception. Where were you when I laid the foundations of the world, when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of heaven shouted for joy? Can you comprehend the infinite mysteries of existence? You, a poor worm who lives for a few moments and dies?" An answer that answers nothing---------------- and everything. The roaring storm has declared only that God's reason is hidden, beyond Job, beyond the comforters. The universe doesn't always make sense. There is no guarantee of good fortune for good behavior. Crazy injustice is part of the enigma of the world and of our brief lives. Job humbles himself, is more than satisfied, and falls upon his face. My Thereisenstadt friends, this is the thought I would leave you with tonight. Who is it in history, who suffers ordeal after ordeal, plundering after plundering, massacre after massacre, century after century, yes looks up at the sky, sometimes with dying eyes, and cries, "The Lord our God, the Lord is one?" Who until then will leave the fearful mystery of undeserved suffering to God, and praise his name, saying, "The Lord has given. The Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord?" Nobody, my friends, but that loathsome, bereaved skeleton on the ash heap. Nobody but Job. He is the only answer, if there is one. The satanic challenge to an Almighty God, Job, 'The stinking Jew.'"

Father, in Jesus' Name, where was I, indeed, when You "laid the foundations of the world?" For me I have not greater prayer than, "Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in Heaven." Amen.
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"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

The Bible Teaches Us to Love, "Correction"--- Really?

2012-01-16T13:58:00.001-05:00

"Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid." (Proverbs 12:1)

The word translated here, "instruction," means "discipline, chastening, correction;" hence, we could say, "Whoever loves correction, discipline, and chastening loves knowledge, but he who hates correction, discipline, and chastening is stupid." If I accept our text, then I confess I have been, "stupid," in my life time. The KJV correctly translates, "stupid, as, "brutish," which means "of, or relating to beasts." This does not "preach" well.

The vast majority of human beings, "born again," or not, do not like correction. A person may be in an "accountability relationship," but if someone outside his approved circles has "a word" for him, "he hates," it. What pomposity. If I pick and choose from whom I can receive correction, I am just deluding myself. The reality today is that if I refuse correction, no matter who it comes from, it is simply due to pride.

There are things, "issues," which need, "correction," in our lives about which we have known perhaps for a long time, maybe decades. What can be embarrassing is that we knew we needed to do something about it, but did not, and someone, sometimes a person who is the last person we would want to receive from, calls it to our attention.

There are people who are just critical or mean- spirited or just want control over our lives; may the Holy Spirit help us to discern such. But may He also help us to discern those who really love us and want us to be our best in Jesus Christ. If we follow carefully the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels, yes, in the whole of Scripture, we see our text as a fundamental Biblical principle; therefore, as a person who claims a love for His Words, I ask myself, What am I doing with all the, "correction," I have received in my life time?

Father, in Jesus' Name, help me to prove my love for Your Words by loving/receiving, "correction, discipline, chastening,"------- from whomever You choose to bring it to me. Amen.
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"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

A "Daniel Heart"

2012-01-16T13:56:00.001-05:00

"And he said to me, 'O Daniel, man greatly beloved....'" (Daniel 10:11)

This is not said of everyone in the Bible. The NASB translates, "greatly beloved," as, "man of high esteem." The Hebrew Interlinear defines the word as, "beauty," or, "take pleasure in, to desire." While everybody on Planet Earth is loved by God, from Adam to the most "lowly" person in the most remote part of the world today, Biblical Theology reveals that there are people who are those, "of high esteem," those who are a "pleasure" to God, those as Enoch, who, "pleased God."

American theology has been invaded by the same mentality popular in that portion of the culture today which does not allow youth athletic competitions to keep score. Everybody is the same, or, in other words, there is no reward for excellence. It is the same mentality which will never consider Bible passages that speak of degrees of rewards in the coming life (Mt. 10, 16, 25, to name a few). I know with many I'm on thin ice here, but maybe more Bible and less pop theology would be in order.

Our Lord Jesus Christ teaches us to love all people; Jesus tells us that to love is the greatest commandment (Mark 12:29-31), and 1 John tells us, "God is love." What I see in our text, however, is that while God supremely demonstrated His love for the world in Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Cross, there are some in His Creation in whom He takes "pleasure," people who are, "highly esteemed." But how can one be in that number? Psalm 51 gives insight to a "Daniel heart." David prays in verse 10, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Our Lord Jesus said, "Blessed are the pure (literally, "clean") in heart, for they shall see God." This is a "Daniel heart"------------------ and, I shall always pray for such.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I pray to be one, "greatly beloved," by You, "highly esteemed," by You, one You can, "take pleasure in, desire." Amen.
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Hebrews 12:2

Is This Such a Time?

2012-01-16T13:49:00.001-05:00

"Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplication with fasting, sackcloth and ashes." (Daniel 9:3)

When a person does this, it is usually an indication that something very serious is going on. Now some, to be sure, may do this out of a regular ritual, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. But there are times in the life of an individual, The Church, and nations when something is looming on the horizon, or is already upon them, which calls for this intense, even repetitious declaration, "prayer and supplication with fasting, sackcloth and ashes." This does not happen in the daily "quite time," or regular times of prayer in the Church. After all, people do have to eat. In the vast majority of Biblical references to such, "prayer and supplication with fasting, sackcloth and ashes," however, something has been revealed to the People of Jesus Christ, something which indicates a "cosmic shift" in events with ramifications far beyond the individual or a local congregation. Biblically, in almost every case, such a fervor in seeking the Living Triune God is brought about by national and/or international events.

Such was the case of Daniel in chapter 9, which contains, incidentally, a great prayer for congregations, cities and nations. Basically, it was a study of the prophetic, "God-Breathed," Word in Jeremiah which alerted Daniel that something of great significance was working in the nation. It was not some "elite" group of prophets getting together to "get a sense of what God was saying." It was, "the Words of God," which revealed to Daniel that events in the "super power" of the day, events affecting the Jews and, "the City of the Great King," Jesus, events in a prophetic timetable, which put something in motion in Daniel' heart. Such a prophetic revelation as in our text is a call to denial, humbling oneself, The Church, a nation.

Events of the past year, current events, and what I see on the horizon indicate to me that our Lord Jesus Christ is calling His People to some very serious, "set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes." Check your heart to see, "what the Spirit is saying to the Churches."

Father, in Jesus' Name, give me a heart such as Daniel's to hear and see what You have revealed in Your Word, and Your prophetic timetable. Amen.
***************
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"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Radical Or Normal

2012-01-06T12:19:00.000-05:00

"Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8)

Anything, "not according to Christ," whether worship, prayer, preaching, missions, any good works, or whatever, is absolutely fruitless. It is vain, "philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men,..the basic principles of the world...." Some may say this is too radical for today's world, but I say that today's world is not my authority; my authority is Jesus Christ, revealed in the, "God-Breathed," Word, indwelling each Believer in the Holy Spirit, the One Whom Father alone honors and glorifies. Anything, absolutely anything in which mankind is involved which is, "not according to Christ," will not stand. The Bible reveals the life of the person who is, "....according to Christ." Such a person, "....is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock."

Such a life is only "radical" to a person who does not know Jesus Christ and, "the Words of God." To us who daily surrender our lives to Jesus, whose lives are built on the Rock, Jesus Christ and, "every word that proceeds from the mouth of God," this is quite "normal" living.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I really ask that today everything I think, say and do is, "according to Christ." Amen.
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Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com
News, Commentary: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

A Prayer For You, Me, Leaders

2012-01-05T13:00:00.000-05:00

(From Der Spiegel)

"For the king trusts, relies on, and is confident in the Lord, and through the mercy and steadfast love of the Most High he will never be moved....For they planned evil against You; they conceived a mischievous plot (devised wicked schemes, NIV) which they are not able to perform." (Psalm 21:7 & 11, Amplified Bible)

While the promises here are to, "the king (who) trusts," and the, "planned evil," is against the Lord God, Biblical Theology teaches us that all whose trust is Jesus Christ are the benefactors of the promises, "he will never be moved." And, when our enemies plot and, "devise[] wicked schemes," against us, those plots and schemes are such, "which they are not able to perform."

This is the reality in which we live. The Bible teaches us from Genesis to Revelation that we are in a daily battle with those who plan evil against us and, "devise wicked schemes," to destroy us. Some will say, "But this battle is, "not against flesh and blood." Yes, but one thing is for sure; much of the scheming and plotting and devising is carried out through that flesh and blood who are willing participants in the Enemy's desire to destroy the People of God. If people read, listen to, and watch current news, this truth will be evident. Righteous people are the object of vicious attacks.

I pray today's text for Rick Santorum, a Republican candidate for President of the United States of America. The attacks of the Enemy, Who has many, many willing participants in His evil purposes, will be endless. I have met Rick and know him to be a Believer in Jesus Christ and His Words, the Bible, a man who greatly desires prayers on his behalf. There is and will be a target on his back which is very large. I pray for him as I pray for you and me today:
Father, in Jesus' Name, I believe that since Rick Santorum, and my friend and I trust in You, "through the unfailing love of the Most High," none of us will, "be moved/shaken, " that, even though the wicked, "devise wicked schemes against You," and against us, "The unfailing love of the Most High will keep him (us) from stumbling." Amen.
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For your consideration, an interesting historic perspective entitled, "The Genocide Doctrine: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

The Biblical Medicine For Anxiety

2012-01-04T13:07:00.000-05:00

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7)

This is one of the most familiar passages to Followers of Jesus Christ; it is medicine for the, "anxious." Can I paraphrase here? "...In everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving"----- pray. This is the best "prayer seminar" we could ever attend. A look at the words translated, "supplication," and, "requests," reveals that what the Holy Spirit is saying here is, "in everything by prayer and prayer,..let your prayers be made known to God."

What would happen to the "mood-drug" industry if those who claim to be, "born again," would obey today's text, if we would just keep in mind that, "prayer...with thanksgiving," is not a religious exercise for the "quiet time," or opening of meetings. Prayer is nothing less than communion, intimate, loving friendship in the Living Triune God of the universe. I still remember that time in my life when I asked the Lord why He places so much emphasis on prayer, and the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart, "Because I like you."

Our text reveals that if I neglect to pray, I forfeit, "the peace of God...through Christ Jesus." If someone claims to have "peace" who does not pray, it is not, "the peace of God...through Christ Jesus"; it is counterfeit peace. "The peace of God," is only, "through Christ Jesus," in Christ Jesus, because of Christ Jesus. The Bible says, "For He Himself is our Peace," and according to verse 7, our non understandable peace. I maintain that if we understand the peace we have, it is not His Peace. His Peace, "surpasses (transcends, exceeds) all understanding."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I thank You for all You are and do which I cannot understand. Amen.
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Two very timely new articles at: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2"

The Year of the Kingdom

2012-01-03T12:34:00.000-05:00

"In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!'" (Matthew 3:1, 2)

I have said and written this many times before, but I must repeat it. The first public words of John the Baptist and our Lord Jesus Christ were, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." This is not to minimize His purpose to, "upon this rock I will build My Church," or, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." But we are not commanded to, "Repent," just to improve our life, nor are we told, "You must be born again," just to go our own way with our blessings and build our own kingdoms. The new birth and water baptism enables us to see and enter the Kingdom, to become citizens of that Kingdom and members of the Church, the Body of Christ.

I have confessed that I did not speak of the Kingdom of Heaven/God much when I was a young minister because of its highjacking by the Jehovah Witnesses. That was dumb, I admit it. My Dad, however, was a Kingdom man. I remember seeing one of His calling cards as a young boy. It had the verse, "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness...." What a great mentor and example. Later, I was to get connected with men who were early leaders of the renewal, but later shunned because of their emphasis on the, "Kingdom of God," or as one described it, "The Government of God."

Talk of the Kingdom of God, the Kingdom of Heaven is not popular among most people because it speaks of government, laws, organization, requirements. Most people want a religion of John Lennon's "Imagine," a life without any heaven or hell. But though a whole generation was duped by this own eastern religion views , the truth remains for all generations until Jesus' Second Appearing, "The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand." No one can frustrate the Kingdom, replace the Kingdom, or destroy the Kingdom, because, "Thy Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom," (literally, "a Kingdom of all ages") and Thy dominion endureth throughout all generations." Daniel told an ancient king, "And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed, and that kingdom shall not be left for another people; it will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, but it will itself endure forever."

Father, in Jesus' Name, give me a greater understanding of Your Kingdom, which I pray, "Your Kingdom come. Your will be done in earth as it is in Heaven." Amen.
**********************
Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

Build up of rockets facing Israel: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"The Presence of the LORD--------Rest"

2012-01-02T13:18:00.000-05:00

"And God said to Noah, 'The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.'" (Genesis 6:13)

It was only Noah and his family who emerged from the ark unscathed by God's global judgment on humanity. They had become utterly hedonistic, humanistic, self-centered. Perhaps Genesis 4:16 best describes the condition of humanity in those days, "Then Cain went out from the presence of the LORD and dwelt in the land of Nod on the east of Eden." The name, "Nod," means "wandering," taken from a word which means "vagrancy, aimless fugitive." What a perfect, albeit, sad commentary on the human race without, "the presence of the LORD...."

Genesis 6:8 tells us that, "Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD"; hence, he was the one chosen to be the literal human root of the new humanity. His name means "rest," and "rest" is exactly what God intended for His Creation, "In the beginning." Temptation came, however, and sin/rebellion followed, and all who came from Adam and Eve were destroyed in the flood, except, "Noah," who, "found grace." It was Noah who was literally to be at the heart of humanity's "second chance." Yet history reveals just how miserably again man failed.

But the mercy of the Living Triune God, "is from everlasting to everlasting," and, "when the fulness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." Now, those who are redeemed by the Blood of Jesus Christ are Father's sons, a part of His Family, His Church, His Kingdom, forever forgiven of sin and delivered from the fires of Hell.

Noah ("Rest)" is a type, a foreshadow of Jesus Christ Who invited all humanity, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you ad learn from Me...and you will find rest for your souls." Now, in Jesus Christ, humanity can leave that, "land of Nod," the land of vagrant, fugitive wandering, and no longer be, "out from the presence of the LORD," but rather, be a part of those, "who have believed...enter that rest...."

Father, in Jesus' Name, thank You for Jesus Christ, my Rest. I pray for my rest in You to be an example and inspiration for others. Amen.

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Unreached Peoples: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

News, Commentary: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Your God, O Zion, For All Generation"-- The Perfect Trust

2011-12-30T13:08:00.000-05:00

"I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save....The LORD reigns forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the LORD." (Fr. Ps 146, NIV)

Well, another year in this time/space world is coming to a close. No better exhortation than to, "....praise the LORD all my life," because this is exactly what those, "who follow the Lamb wherever He goes," will be doing in Eternity, in time/space language, endless, continual, non stop praise, declaring as Paul said to the Roman Church, "Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!" Personally, I cannot imagine how we could ever find them out.

Resolve for 2012, "Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save." Obviously they have a place in our lives, but to save? That is for Jesus Christ and Jesus Christ alone. Trust, I believe, is going to be a very key word for us in the coming year; remember this and call it to mind. Others around you and me will be trusting, "in princes, in human beings." But while they fail to justify that trust, Jesus Christ will continue to, "save," all who put their trust in Him. Dear friend, as this coming year unfolds, rejoice with me in, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever," Who Is, "Your God, O Zion, for all generations."

Father, in Jesus Name, Help me, I pray, to increase my trust factor for 2012. You are so worthy of such trust. Amen.
*********************
Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com
News, Commentary: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

There Are "Foreigners...In Our Streets"

2011-12-29T12:07:00.000-05:00

"Reach down your hand from on high; deliver me and rescue me from the mighty waters, from the hands of foreigners....Then...there will be no breaching of walls, no going into captivity, no cry of distress in our streets."

(From Psalm 144:7 & 14, NIV)

The first part of our text is repeated in verse 11, "....rescue me from...the hands of foreigners." A "foreigner" to me is any person who rejects Jesus Christ as, "King of kings, and Lord of lords," His Atoning Blood of His Cross, His Second Appearing. I love them, pray for their conversion, reach out to them, and as far as it is in me, am kind to them. They are, nonetheless, as with David, "foreigners." Many of these, "foreigners," precipitate the prayer, "deliver me and rescue me," because they are attempting to not only destroy me, but also wreak havoc in nations, and, in the case of the US, destroy Constitutional Law.

I have posted to our "News, Commentary" Blog what may seem to some as a very controversial article. It reveals, "distress in our streets." It is of a highly sensitive nature only because of the humanist philosophy that a certain segment of a society is totally responsible for the ills of that society-- as in the accusation of the so-called "Occupy Wall Street" debacle-- and all others are justified in what- ever they do. America, as all nations, is guilty of national sins. The article is a constant reminder that unless there is national repentance, national disaster results, a disaster which cannot be reversed.

Our text is a cry of the psalmist for personal and national deliverance from hooliganism. The global events of the last year have revealed just how ever- growing and dangerous are these, "foreigners." And while their evil will continue to spread, it is the responsibility of the Church of Jesus Christ to pray for men and nations, "From the deadly sword deliver me; rescue me from the hands of foreigners whose mouths are full of lies, whose right hands are deceitful."

It brings the accusation of prejudice and bigotry to say that no people group is without sin, no people group is justified in sinful behavior. Yet sin is sin; rebellion is rebellion, and the Living Triune God will deal with all those who pursue such a life style. What 2012 will bring in the US and the global community no one knows. What we can know, however, is that, "Jesus is Lord," and all who seek deliverance and refuge in Him will rest in His Eternal love and care.

Father, in Jesus' Name, "From the deadly sword deliver me (and our nations); rescue me (and our nations) from...foreigners whose mouths are full of lies, whose right hands are deceitful." Amen.
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News, Commentary: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached Peoples: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Forgetting," Is Not What Most Think

2011-12-28T12:41:00.001-05:00

"....One thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (Fr. Philippians 3:13, 14)

Notice in Whom is, "the upward call of God." This wonderful, "upward call," is in none other, and in nothing other than, "in Christ Jesus."

Our text today is a favorite of preachers this time of year. Paul was stating his life's philosophy; whatever he had achieved by his own energy and efforts was in the past and needed to be put in the, "forgetting," file. One must always remember, however, that our minds are like computers; they retain data entered. As with computers, this data can be "good" and it can be "bad," and what we do with that data will affect the coming year, indeed, our coming lives.

There are things which I need to retain and things which I need to "forget." But the word for, "forgetting," in our text is not what it may seem. We really don't "forget" things, at least the things which have greatly affected our lives. One of the main problems in interpersonal and international relationships is directly related to "unforgetfulness." Yet what I can gather from the Greek word for, "forgetting," it fundamentally means "to neglect, to lose out of mind." This, my friend, is a conscious decision, difficult though it may be.

This coming year will be one of victory or defeat, depending on our ability and/or willingness "to lose out of mind, to neglect" all our self-willed achievements and the offenses of others. Jesus Christ made this possible in what He finished, "in His Cross,"
    "My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought,
    My sin, not in part but the whole,
    Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
    Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul."
Now what more or less can I do with my own past as well as the past of all those in my life?!? "Put it behind you" is a common phrase, and this is exactly what the Holy Spirit, through the former Pharisee, is saying to you and me for the coming year. God put our life of sin "behind" Him, and in Him we can do the same. The thoughts will come back, some times horrible, depressing, haunting thoughts, but in Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit you and I can "neglect" them and lose [them] out of mind."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I choose to "lose out of mind, to neglect" all that is not of You in my life. Amen.
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Read of Poland's Conversion on the "Jewish Question:" www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached Peoples of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

New Year's "Commitment"

2011-12-27T09:26:00.001-05:00

"After these things I heard a loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, saying, 'Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God!...He has judged the great harlot who corrupted the earth with her fornication and He has avenged on her the blood of His servants shed by her.'" (Revelation 19:1, 2)

Some day the, "....blood of His servants shed by...," whomever over the many centuries of human existence will be, "....avenged on her...." Judgment day is coming. Maybe this is a reason so many Followers of Jesus over the centuries have not resisted those who were persecuting them. "....All things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." This is true for all humanity, Believers and non believers alike.

As 2011 comes to a close and 2012 dawns upon us, there will be opportunities for those who follow Jesus Christ to walk in their belief that this world is not the end of things. What seems like injustice now will be dealt with. Those who wrong us, those who persecute us, those who would kill us, indeed, all the injustices of the earth are awaiting the avenging justice and power of the Living Triune God. This should not lead to vindictiveness in those of us who follow Jesus Christ. "Do not say, 'I will repay evil;' Wait for the LORD and He will save you" (Proverbs 20:20). It should deliver us from any sense that unless we retaliate, unless we "get back at them," evil will go unpunished. "'Vengeance is mine,' says the Lord, 'I will repay,'" and, "Behold, it is written before Me, I will not keep silent, but I will repay; I will even repay into their bosom...." (Isaiah 65:6)

As the New Year comes, we renew our life style as expressed in Psalm 37:5, "Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I do commit my way to You, trust in You, and thank You that You, "will do it." Amen.

Unreached People Group of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com
Persecuted Christians are denied asylum in the United States, while "whole Muslim communities are entering the US by the tens of thousands per month." Read more at: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

No Humbug Here

2011-12-23T13:09:00.000-05:00

"....Bring them to Jerusalem to celebrate the dedication with gladness...." (Neh. 12:27)

I'm sure over the years you have heard of all the bad-mouthing of Christmas, "Christ's mass," December 25th is the celebration of the "Italic god, Saturn, and the rebirth of the sun god," the pagan roots of the Christmas tree, etc., etc. The Roman Catholic Church, Ancient Rome, Nordic pagan god worshipers can do what they like. I celebrate with lights and trees and giving of gifts, Jesus Christ, His Appearing, "Who went about doing good," died on a Roman cross, shedding Precious Blood, rose from an earthquake shattered tomb, Who, "when he ascended on high...took many captives and gave gifts to his people." The religionists can humbug Christmas all they wish. This redeemed sinner, redeemed from the power of sin, the grave, an eternal Hell, will celebrate His First appearing, until either His Second Appearing or I die and, "enter thou into the joy of the Lord."

Sarah and I pray that you will do the same and don't let the pagans enjoy all those trees and lights by themselves. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy Hanukkah, it is all about Father coming to us in Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!

Woody
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Read of Hanukkah in Buchenwald at: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached Peoples of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Because of Our Eternal Life, We Are There!

2011-12-22T08:41:00.000-05:00

"And I saw no temple therein, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it....And they shall bring the glory and honor of the nations into it. And there shall... enter into it...they which are written in the Lamb's book of life."

(From Revelation 21:22-27, KJV-- Advent Reading, Book of Common Prayer)

The Christmas Event and the Cross are pivotal events in the long succession of Bible Prophecy. Our text today, however, reveals where all of this is headed, "the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb." Jesus Christ has been referred to as "The All-Sufficient One." Father, Son, Holy Spirit, the Living Triune God Himself is our life here, and our goal for Eternity. This is the "reason" for the continual exhortation to run our race, "Looking unto Jesus." Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit are the "Object" of our life, our Eternal Life of eternity.

Who would have thought that the little Baby in that manger was to take all who give their lives to Him to such an almost inconceivable reality, "no need of the sun, neither of the moon, for the glory of God...and the Lamb is the light thereof." Interesting that we are told there is no need for a temple, "for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it." Right now, my friend, right where you and I are is a foretaste of this Advent reading. "The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb," is in us who believe, indwelling, abiding, sustaining, directing, comforting, healing, prospering, preserving.

Can I tell you of a most wonderful Christmas gift today? There is a very real sense that we are already "there," because God is not time/space bound and neither are we in the Holy Spirit. Such glory in our present fellowship, and yet such anticipation in what is yet to come, a very Merry Christmas indeed.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I cannot comprehend this, but I receive this because I receive You. Amen.
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Unreached Peoples: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

I and many others have predicted this: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Behold, I Am Laying In Zion For A Foundation A Stone"

2011-12-21T13:18:00.001-05:00

"Because you have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol (the place of the dead) we have an agreement-- when the overflowing scourge passes through, it will not come to us, for we have made lies our refuge, and in falsehood we have taken shelter. Therefore thus says the Lord God, Behold, I am laying in Zion for a foundation a Stone, a tested Stone, a precious Cornerstone of sure foundation; he who believes (trusts in, relies on, and adheres to that Stone) will not be ashamed or give way or hasten away [in sudden panic]." (Isaiah 28:15,16-Amplified Bible, Advent Reading From B. of C.P.)

In the 20th Century alone, Russia, Germany, and the United States of America, came under the judgment of our text. They, "made a covenant with death," and, "made lies our refuge, and in falsehood we have taken shelter." History records the utter stupidity of such a "covenant." Someone would say, "Well, I understand the horrors of Communist Russia and Fascist Germany, but America? Yes. In 1962 Americans stood by and did nothing while the highest court of the land took the daily praying of the prayer of Jesus out of the state school system. Next, in 1963, Americans allowed the "God-Breathed" Word to be eliminated from those same schools. In the middle to latter 1960's, our government leaders succumbed to the self- destructive forces and in 1975 abandoned our ally, South Viet Nam. Corrupt though it may have been, it was still our ally. In the following years, millions were murdered by the communist reprobate, Ho Chi Minh. And perhaps the worst, "covenant with death," and the worst, "refuge," and, "shelter," America came under was the 1973 Supreme Court decision to legalize the murder of babies while in their mothers' womb. All three countries have paid dearly for such utter stupidity.

That First Christmas Night ("O, Holy Night") when the Godhead fulfilled our text in Jesus, "Behold, I am laying in Zion for a foundation a Stone, a tested Stone, a precious Cornerstone of sure foundation," He revealed to mankind a better way, yes, the only Way. Jesus the Christ Is Our Foundation Stone, and, "he who believes (trusts in, relies on, and adheres to That Stone) will not be ashamed or give way or hasten away [in sudden panic]." Shame and, "sudden panic," comes on any person or nation who rejects Jesus Christ for, "a covenant with death," and making, "lies our refuge, and in falsehood...have taken shelter." But during this Christmas Season, you and I can take great comfort in the words of Joel 2:27, "My people shall never be put to shame." Why? Because they have repented of and refused all refuge of lies and shelters of falsehood. Believe me, there have been and will be in the days ahead events which will cause those under, "lies," and, "falsehood," to, "hasten away [in sudden panic.]" But to you and me who trust absolutely in Jesus Christ and in Jesus Christ alone, no hastening away, no sudden panic. We will be able to say to all around us, "This is that which was spoken by the prophet...."

Father, in Jesus' Name, thank You so much for my Foundation Stone, Jesus. Amen.
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Unreached Peoples: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"His Unspeakable Gift"

2011-12-20T12:50:00.000-05:00

"And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened....And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire....And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." (From Revelation 20 & 21)

Our text is some of the Advent reading for today from The Book of Common Prayer. It reveals the contrast between those who have surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ, who are "washed in the Blood of the Lamb," whose sins have been removed, "as far as the east is from the west," whose names are written in, "the Book of Life," those in whom Jesus Christ lives, and those who have known none of the aforementioned. To the agnostic who cannot resolve the "God question," I say, "Err on the side of caution." The Bible declares two possibilities, "The lake of fire," or, "God will wipe away every tear"; the choice is ours.

Christmas is not about a date, no matter who ultimately set it. It is about, "The Coming One," whether December 25 or whatever. Those who refuse to celebrate Christmas because of some religious jangling are robbing themselves of a great festive season. What is important is that, "The Coming One," Jesus Christ, foretold by prophets, came into the world in a very small town just a short distance from Jerusalem and, "This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven." And, because of Father's Gift of Jesus, all my sin is forgiven, and there is a day coming when, "There shall be no more pain for the former things have passed away."!

Our text reminds us of the blessing and the curse of His appearing, blessing to those who "receive Him still," and curse to those who reject Him still. Christmas: "This is how God loved the world; He gave His Only Son" (literal translation of John 3:16). The greatest reason to give gifts at this time of year is not so much that the "wise men" gave gifts to Jesus, but that Father gave us the Gift of Himself in Jesus Christ.

Father, in Jesus' Name, I say with Paul, "thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift." Amen.

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Unreached People of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com
Read of the Danger in North Korea: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

Moses' Writings and Jesus' Words Are One

2011-12-19T13:12:00.000-05:00

"For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?" (Jn 5:46,47)

The answer is really quite simple; you cannot. The writings of the Old Testament are integral with the New Testament. People have asked me why the New Testament does not seem to speak of "political," governmental, or international relations. Again, the answer is really quite simple; the Word of God does not have to repeat Himself. The Bible is a whole. If modern Christendom would realize this, live this, proclaim this truth, the modern Christian Church would not be so insular.

Jesus came to build His Kingdom, His Nation, "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder....Of the increase of (literally) government and peace no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice...." And, Jesus sends us to nations, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations."

Today's Scripture Readings for Advent, suggested by "The Book of Common Prayer," is Isaiah 11:1-9, Revelation 20:1-10, and John 5:30-47. Our text reveals the historic and prophetic revelation of Whom the Bible calls, "The Coming One." Jesus is King; Jesus is Ruler; Jesus is Savior; Jesus is coming again. All the Biblical prophesies were not fulfilled at His first appearing. They will only be completed at His second appearing. If, "you believed Moses, you [will] believe [Jesus]." If we read and believe the Old Testament writings, we will then "bring" them with us to the New. Only when we so live, will we break out of parochial life styles and embrace The Kingdom of Heaven/God, embrace the nations, embrace humanity.

Father, in Jesus' Name, grant me a new and ever-expanding break out. Amen.

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Today's Unreached Peoples: www.unreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Born To You"

2011-12-16T12:29:00.001-05:00

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:11)

This Baby was, "born to you." The shepherds, and later the "Wise Men," could have refused the revelation, but they chose rightly.

Everything we read in the Bible is, "to you." Now whether we receive the, "to you," or not is our decision---------- our decision. While this can be wonderful, it is also tremendously frightening; my decisions will, not may, affect my destiny. Now some people do not like this theology, the theology which includes man's decisions. It sounds so God-honoring to say that it is all God. It is not. God did his "All" when He created the Universe, revealed Himself in Jesus Christ, took our sin, "in His Own Body on the tree," rose again. But to become a part of all He has done and is doing we must make a decision, i.e., to surrender to Jesus Christ, or surrender to ourselves, to attempt a pick-and-choose life style, or "pick" only one choice, absolute total obedience to Jesus Christ and His "Law-Word."

Christmas is about giving, God's Gift of Himself in Jesus Christ, and our giving of gifts in thanksgiving and remembrance of that wonderful night so long ago, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." And it was, "this day," so very long ago, This Life, His Shed Blood, His Cross, Resurrection, His Soon Return, and my choice to reject or accept His All, which determines my eternal destiny. http://youtu.be/Ubw5N8iVDHI

Father, in Jesus' Name, I choose You. I choose You every day, every moment, for you have chosen me in Jesus. Thank You. Amen.

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Today's Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com
Iran's Next Move? www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

A Kingdom Commentary

2011-12-15T12:49:00.001-05:00

"Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him; all nations shall serve Him." (Psalm 72:11)

If we do not get our text out of the Sunday School class, out of the Bible Study class, out of the closed sessions of Sunday morning services, the modern church will have no more relevance to the global struggle than "Bachelorette."

Definition of Islam: "Submit, Surrender"
I have no doubt that if the people pictured above would read my writings, they would attempt this. The following is from an online article:
"Over the last 1400 years, 270 million non-believers were murdered by Muslim jihadists. Islam destroyed the Christian Middle East and Christian North Africa (To this day, Christians are almost non existent). It is estimated that upwards of 60 million Christians were slaughtered during this conquest. Also, half the Hindu civilization was annihilated and 80 million Hindus murdered. Islamic jihad also destroyed over 10 million Buddhists."

This is "the real world" in which you and I live. This is Islam since its founding 1500 years ago. Against some of the contemporary "experts," I say that Islam is not the problem. Islam was a late comer in human history and simply gave a religious "flavor" to the age-old Arab war of hatred against Jews, Western Civilization, and all who will not submit and surrender to the attempt to establish an "Arab World Empire." In the last generation, the Arab Islamism has renewed, and is daily strengthening, its resolve to annihilate world Jewry, defeat the West, and triumph over all world religions. What its Islamic bedfellow failed to do when stopped at the gates of Vienna, it is right now renewing that effort. Also, what is and has been latent in the Germanic People Group, is beginning to emerge once again. I have a warning: Those who think "never again" is a magic formula for victory, yet do nothing to fight the evil, will once again find themselves on "boxcars."

Our text today reveals that there are no multiple rulers in God's economy. Nowhere in the Bible does the Holy Spirit endorse the reign of multiple kings, religions, political systems. The Bible declares, "Yes, all kings..,all nations shall serve Him," our King, Jesus Christ. There is no shared hegemony. The American Constitution does not rule, the world of political and religious correctness does not rule, egalitarianism does not rule. Only King Jesus and His "God-Breathed" Word rules. While Matthew 28 has been used to promote church evangelism, it is also a declaration of war. "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." The intent is clear-- to see, "every creature...saved and come to the knowledge of the truth," in Jesus Christ, and yes, to bring all humanity under the reign of Jesus Christ. While, "the weapons of our warfare are not carnal," we do have weapons, "truth,..righteousness,..the gospel of peace,..the shield of faith,..the helmet of salvation,..the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God,..all prayer and supplication in the Spirit...with all perseverance.... Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth."

Don't allow yourself today to be boxed into a religious blind. The Reign of God is overcoming men and nations.

Jesus shall reign where'er the sun

does his successive journeys run;

His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,

Till moons shall wax and wane no more.

Behold the islands with their kings,

And Europe her best tribute brings;

From north to south the princes meet,

To pay their homage at His feet.

There Persia, glorious to behold,

There India shines in eastern gold;

And barb'rous nations at His word

Submit, and bow, and own their Lord. (Isaac Watts)

Father, in Jesus' Name, "Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in Heaven." Amen.

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Read Full Article from which the above photo came: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Today's Unreached People Group: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

One Eye On the Past and One Eye on the Future

2011-12-14T12:51:00.000-05:00

"Truth shall spring out of the earth, and righteousness shall look down from heaven." (Psalm 85:11)

There is a lot of trumped up, false, hypocritical, and deceptive criticism about Presidential hopeful, Newt Gingrich's statement on the wrongly named palestinians. His statement was true; palestinians "are an invented people."

I majored in history in the university and the history of doctrine in graduate school. Those majors have served me well. They have enabled me to spot fraudulent claims of modern politicians, religionists, pseudo- everythings coming out of Hollywood, and any other source of distortion and lies. I repeat what Brother Charles once said, "If you don't have a sense of history, you cannot go on," i.e., go on in truth and discernment.

There is a very real sense than when, "Truth shall spring out of the earth... righteousness shall look down from heaven." Where there is no truth, there can be no righteousness. Falsehood will beget unrighteousness, and God's rejection. It only when I get honest with myself that I will come to Jesus Christ, Who is, "The Lord our Righteousness." It is only the people absolutely surrendered to Jesus Christ who can recognize honesty, the truth, and escape the deception which is increasing and will over take the earth in, "the last days." History is truth and is not affected by those who try to rewrite it; it is done. And in its finality it is a witness of, "Truth." May God help us to learn from it.

I have heard a lot of people say over the years say that history bores them. If you are among them, I highly suggest a conversion. History is fundamental and, yes, foundational to every aspect of our lives. The Bible is history, and history, my friend, is not a bad word. What I just wrote is in the realm of history now and affects what I write next. Our heritage, our faith is history affecting our future. America is where it is today, and where it may yet go, because it has ignored its history. When that happens, any people group and/or person is headed for disaster. All testimonies are historic proofs of Christ's faithfulness. Okay, I guess by now you get the point. What you and I learn from the past will enable us to navigate the surging rapids of the river ahead. "Truth," and, "Righteousness," await the, "Pure in heart."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I embrace the past because it is a witness to Your Faithfulness. Maybe I can say, Help me to keep one eye on the past and one eye on the future. Amen.
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Interview with Daniel Pipes on the "invented people" remark of Gingrich and Daniel Pipes article at: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached Peoples of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

(if clicking on this does not work, just enter it in your search bar)

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

None Is Without the Need of Mercy

2011-12-12T12:21:00.000-05:00

"Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me; fighting all day he oppresses me." (Psalm 56:1)

This is not only "a Michtam of David when the Philistines captured him in Gath." It is a Psalm for all who have suffered oppression of any kind from any one or any government.

I went through Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem to the victims of the attempted German state sponsored genocide of the Jews. I saw a video testimony of a Jew who through it all, even in the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp, found joy and peace in the verses of the Torah. Somehow I think if God's mercy could extend in such hellishness, surely the mercy of our Lord can extend to you and me-------- in anything.

There are Followers of Jesus Christ whom I have known over the years who have been oppressed by family members, employers, people over them in the work place, even religious leaders. Whether an oppression seems small or great to others, to the oppressed it is no small thing. Oppression can lead to depression, health issues, and just an overall discouraging life. But David knew the source of deliverance, "Be merciful to me, O God..." History reveals that deliverance from, "man [who] would swallow me," does not always mean getting away from such. Millions of Followers of Jesus over the centuries have lived and died under oppression. Yet in the midst of it all, there was He Who alone is Mercy, Jesus Christ.

May you or someone you know is experiencing, "....Fighting all day he oppresses me." Call out, "Be merciful to me, O God...." Now to the super spiritual, this is just too simple a prayer. But I would rather be a part of David's lineage than theirs. Jesus Christ is merciful; He has always been merciful, and always will be to the end of days.

"Therefore, since we do hold and engage in this ministry by the mercy of God [granting us favor, benefits, opportunities, and especially salvation], we do not get discouraged (spiritless and despondent with fear) or become faint with weariness and exhaustion." (2 Corinthians 4:1, Amplified Bible)

Father, in Jesus' Name, Your, "mercies are new every morning." I ask for and thank you for today's needed mercy. Amen.

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Today's Unreached Peoples: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

Newyt Got It Right: www.apf327.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"The Redemption of Jerusalem"

2011-12-08T11:17:00.001-05:00

"At that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem." (Luke 2:28, NASB)

I was on bus 7 today, a transfer from the bus I used to visit the Knesset. Sitting next to me was a young Orthodox Jew, Luke 2 was playing on my ipod; I aimed the speaker at him.

When this passage came, I found it quite a start. I, probably like most, always thought it said, "redemption of Israel," but it does not. It says, "looking for the redemption of Jerusalem," the Capitol of Israel always, "the City of the Great King." Jesus came to redeem mankind, to save us from our sins, bring us into the Government of God, the family of God. The Prophetess, Anna, made this prophesy which was fulfilled in the Baby right before her, and whose coming we are in the season of celebrating. Because of Jesus, Jerusalem is my home too, "And all nations will flow to it."

I'm heading out to share in a Bible Study. If you receive this soon, please keep me and the group in prayer. Please see the article by Carolyn Click at: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Obama, Clinton, and Pannetta are revealing themselves to be the new "Axis of Evil." I am deeply concerned for the United States of America if fools elect this administration to another term. You cannot be blessed and curse Israel at the same time.

Father, in Jesus' Name, please give the United States of America a President who has surrendered his life to Jesus Christ and loves your Words. Amen.
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www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com ;

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"The Lord Merely Spoke"

2011-12-07T14:14:00.001-05:00

"The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born." (Psalm 33:6, NLT)

This has been a unique mission in the Land. I have played through the Bible once, the New Testament 3 times and the Gospels 4. Jesus is the, "stumbling block to the Jews," yet I have "felt" great power in His Words permeating the air here. I know to many I seem a little "out there" on this, but those who know my testimony know that it was the, "God-Breathed," Word Who saved my life over 41 years ago----- and still does today. If, "The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created," what is possible for you and me and nations when we receive what He, "merely spoke," and speaks? Nothing less that the same creative power is loosed. "He breathed the Word, and all the stars were born," and so was I. Peter tells us that we are, "born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible through the word of God which lives and abides forever, because 'All flesh is grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the Lord endures forever.'" The only One and the only "thing" Who endures is Jesus Christ and His Words, "and His Name is called, 'The Word of God.'"

Thank you so much to all who are praying; my health is good, and I believe I have been accomplishing what I have "followed" Jesus here to do (John 12:26). Thanks again to all who invested in this mission. There are always unexpected expenses and you have made sure that I can meet the "surprises." For those who have been praying daily for the "Unreached People Groups," I have been keeping up with posting them at: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

There is also a very prophetic article about what is going on in Europe, revealing the growing strength of Germany-- very interesting read @: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Also, if you have never watched the prophetic video, "The Rape of Europe," I highly recommend skipping that favorite sitcom and go to: www.antipasprayerforce2.blogspot.com

Father, in Jesus' Name, Your Word goes forth, and may You keep coming forth in my life and in this land, and the lands of those who receive this. Amen.

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Why Are The Nations So Angry?"

2011-11-30T12:09:00.000-05:00

Much of the world says:

The Living Triune God says, "The Lord is rebuilding Jerusalem and bringing the exiles back to Israel. He sends His orders to the world--- how swiftly His Word flies!" (Psalm 147:2, 15, NLT)

The world can flash all the signs it desires. Yet what Father said so long ago in Psalm 2 has never before seen such a prophetic moment as now. "Why are the nations so angry? Why do they waste their time with futile plans? The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against His anointed One....But the One Who rules in heaven laughs....Then in anger He rebukes them, terrifying them with his fierce fury. For the LORD declares, 'I have placed My chosen on the throne in Jerusalem, on My holy mountain.'"

Most people think that unless missionaries preach, teach, build hospitals and schools, etc., they are not valid missionaries. Yet the same people overlook the reality that prayer was central and foundational to all the work of the most well known leaders in Church History.

"I would rather teach one man to pray than ten men to preach." (Charles Spurgeon)

"The man who mobilizes the Christian church to pray will make the greatest contribution to world evangelization in history." (Andrew Murray)
"We give too much attention to method and machinery and resources, and too little to the source of power." (Hudson Taylor)

"To know the will of God, we need an open Bible and an open map." (William Carey)

Our text declares, "The LORD is rebuilding Jerusalem and bringing the exiles back to Israel." If I were offering some advice to world leaders, I would say, "He sends His orders to the world." Just watch, "How swiftly His Word flies!"!!

Father, in Jesus' Name, almost twelve years ago You gave me the word of Deuteronomy 5:31, "But as for you, stand here by Me." I pray that I walk in it. Amen.
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More Prophetic News at: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached People Group of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

There Are Just No Words Like His WORDS

2011-11-29T12:08:00.001-05:00

"Revive me, O LORD, for Your name's sake!" (Psalm 143:11a)

Who could not pray this every day? It is a great "cleansing" prayer.

I pray the Bible because, frankly, there are just no better prayers. Now some might say that we should make our, "requests known." That is exactly right, and no prayers make my, "requests known," no prayers offer greater praise, no prayers express the deepest longings and deepest needs than the prayers of the Bible. Psalm 143 is one of those prayers. For example, I just pray verses 1, 2, 6, 7-12 verbatim. By the way, when I pray about, "my enemies," I just pray the Words of God so that I do not pray personal vindictive prayers. I do the same when praying for our country, Israel, and the nations. When a person prays the Bible, they are praying the will of God. As an old commercial said, "no runs, no drips, no errors." I may not fully understand what I am praying, but I do know they are the very, "Words of God," Words issuing from Father, from Him Who Is, "The Word of God," Jesus Christ, to and through me in the Holy Spirit.

I shall never forget what happened to me once during our one year mission in Berlin. I was sitting in a coffee shop in the very center of Berlin, just a short distance from the famous "Check Point Charlie." I was praying Bible prayers which I had written out, no head bowed, no eyes closed, no audible expression, just giving expression to those prayers in my heart, spirit, mind. The words of Eric Liddell at one point came to me, "When I run, I feel His pleasure." What a great work!

Of course we do not read the Bible only for our prayers, but I do find that when I am reading or listening to the Bible, prayers for myself, my family, local church, friends, country, the nations just come. If you pray for me on the coming Israel Mission, I commend the prayer I mentioned the other day from Colossians 4 and Psalm 143. In your reading you will come across prayers the Spirit will give you.

Father, in Jesus' Name, there are just no words like Your Words. Amen.
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Read of UN's "Day...Against the Jews": www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached Peoples of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"He Is Coming"

2011-11-28T08:58:00.000-05:00

"He Who is coming will come and not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith...." (Hebrews 10:37, 38a)

You will remember our text from our Hebrews study; "He...is coming." The, "just," the righteous, the impartial person will so live and so govern his life. My Grandfather believed this; my Father believed this; I believe this. I repeat Billy Graham's statement, "History is headed toward a dramatic climax." It does not matter how many generations come and go. As Psalm 117 declares, "The truth of the Lord endures forever."

There is an article which I have posted to one of our Blogs. It is one of the most ominous revelations of the coming EU-Beast-False Prophet-Antichrist consortium.

As you know, I believe developments in the European Union, originally "The Common Market," are key to discerning the times. Watch global events; watch Israel. And, as Deuteronomy 2:4 says, "Therefore watch yourselves carefully." These are exciting times; these are terrifying times. Yet to the person who follows Jesus Christ, these are victorious times.

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus...."

Father, in Jesus' Name, convict me constantly of, "the sin which so easily ensnares us." And, "Jesus, keep me near the Cross." Amen.
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Prophetic Revelation: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached Peoples: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com ;

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Jerusalem: 'May [Only] They Prosper Who Love You.'"

2011-11-25T12:50:00.001-05:00

"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces.'" (Psalm 122:6,7)

The word translated, "peace," is, "shalom," which means, "completeness, soundness, welfare, peace." Most people just say, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem," and stop. But our text tells us what to pray, "May they prosper who love you," etc. I pray that only, "they...who love you...prosper." Arabs do not love Jerusalem. They only want Jerusalem so that they can drive the Jews out. They have absolutely no tie, emotional or otherwise, to Jerusalem. Furthermore, many politicians who vote favorably towards Jerusalem do it for the Jewish votes; they don't love Jerusalem. American Presidents too have been cowardly, both Democrat and Republican, in their refusal to move the American Embassy to Jerusalem. Moving the embassy would declare to the whole world that America, and any government which would so do, we too, "love you," Jerusalem.

Jesus wept over Jerusalem, "If you had known, even you, especially in this your day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden from you eyes." I leave for Jerusalem next Thursday, December 1, and arrive in, "The City of the Great King," in the morning of December 2. I am and will be praying in the city, that Jerusalem will come to know, now, "in this your day, the things that make for your peace!" I pray that, "the things...hidden from your eyes," will be manifest by obedience to, Messiah Jesus, "King of kings, and Lord of lords." I pray that the President of the United States of America and leaders of the nations will boldly proclaim to the world, not by talk and political rhetoric, but by the action of moving embassies to Jerusalem, "We love you, Jerusalem." And most importantly, that the nations, before it is too late, will surrender to King Jesus Christ as King of the Kingdom of God, and King of, "the City of the Great King."

Father, in Jesus' Name, May only those who love Jerusalem prosper; may the Jews have the veil lifted to see things which are, "now...hidden from [them]." Amen.

"Brethren, pray for us." Please pray for complete healing of chronic sinus infections. We love and appreciate you.
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"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Giving Thanks To His Name"

2011-11-24T12:47:00.000-05:00

"Therefore by Jesus let us continually offer sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." (Hebrews 13:15)

This is Thanksgiving Day in the United States of America. Other nations also observe a Thanksgiving Day, including Canada and The Netherlands. One source tells us that "many of the Pilgrims who migrated to the Plymouth Plantation had resided in the city of Leiden (The Netherlands, aka, Holland) from 1609-1620, many of whom had recorded their birth, marriages and deaths at the Pieterskerk (church building). To commemorate this, a non-denominational Thanksgiving Day service is held each year on the morning of the American Thanksgiving Day in the Pieterskerk, a Gothic church building in Leiden, to commemorate the hospitality the Pilgrims received in Leiden on their way to the New World."

You are probably receiving many Thanksgiving Day blessings today. The close of the Hebrew Letter, a fitting "end" to a great treatise. "Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen."

Father, in Jesus' Name, Thank You. Amen.
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New Article at: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com ;

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Therefore Let Us Go Forth To Him"

2011-11-23T13:03:00.000-05:00

"For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned outside the camp. Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp bearing His reproach."

Our text is a summation of the difference between the Old and the New Covenants. In the Old, it was, "the bodies of those animals." In the New, it is Jesus Christ. Both, however, were discarded, "outside the camp." Hebrews tells us that the blood of animals could do nothing to purify, cleanse the human conscience of sin. The Blood of Jesus Christ, however, does this, "once for all."

What seeming travesty this is. "Outside the camp," in the Old Covenant was nothing but a garbage heap: so too Golgotha. Also, located nearby was a cemetery--waste and death. It is fitting that Jesus should die in such a place, for He was taking the waste and death of humanity, "in His Own Body on the Tree."

Man does not want to, "bear[] (such) reproach." He wants happy stuff, acceptance, affirmation, told that he is special and have everyone accept him in all his self- centered sin. But to those of us who know Jesus, we take great delight (or do we?) to, "go forth to Jesus, outside the camp, bearing His reproach." To obey such an invitation is, "foolishness to those who are perishing." Ah, "but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." This is, "to the Jews a stumbling block and to the [Gentile Peoples] foolishness, but to those who are the called, bearing the reproach of Jesus in His Cross, "is the power of God and the wisdom of God."

There can be no other command, no other invitation to you and me today than, "Therefore let us go forth to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach." The reproach of Christ will be with us until we die or the Trumpet announces His return. Everywhere they go, whether they choose it or not, Followers of Jesus, "bear[] His reproach." But there is joy only in the willingly embrace of, "Therefore let us go forth to Him outside the camp...."

Father, in Jesus' Name, I, "go forth to Him outside the camp...." Amen.
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News, Commentary: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached People of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

17 Commands in Hebrews 13

2011-11-22T13:03:00.000-05:00

"Let brotherly love continue....Entertain strangers....Remember the prisoners.... Marriage is honorable...." (Hebrews 13)

There are at least 17 commands in chapter 13. Most people do not think of the New Testament when there is talk of "commands;" they think only of the Old Testament. Yet commands from God did not stop at Sinai. The Bible teaches that you and I are servants of the Living Triune God, and servants obey commands. Jesus said, "If any man serve me, let him follow me." People say, "I want to serve the Lord." Fine. Then obey the command to follow.

My calling in life is to serve and follow. These are two very difficult realities for rebellious humanity. Yet to the person who obeys, serves, and follows, the Bible speaks of indescribable blessings, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever." All He has said to us so long ago, He still does to and for us today. As Billy Graham once said, "He brought peace to the troubled sea, and to many a troubled hearts."

Our text speaks of just a few of the commands in Hebrews 13. "Be content with such things as you have," is another one, a command which gives peace and admonition to a literally bankrupt earth. And if anyone wonders about indescribable blessings for those who obey His commands, "I will never, no never leave you nor forsake you." This, my friend, is the blessing of the command-keeper, one who obeys, serves, follows.

Father, in Jesus' Name, "Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight." Amen.
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The West's Appeasement: www.apf327.blogspot.com

Unreached Peoples for Today: http://www.unreachedpeoples.blogspot.com
(If the site does not respond to clicking on the above, type it in your search bar)

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2

"Holy Caution"

2011-11-21T10:47:00.000-05:00

"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire." (Hebrews 12: 28, 29)

One of the meanings of the phrase translated, "godly fear," is, "Holy caution." I really, really like that. Is this how you and I, "serve God"? Do we pray, read the Scriptures, witness, work in our vocations, relate with our families, friends, neighbors, government, preach, do mission work, in short, all things with, "Holy caution?" This is how the "faith people" of Hebrews so lived.

There is great comfort and confidence today in knowing, "we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken," and, "we have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably," in, "the [unshakable] Kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ." I need to walk in that, "grace," however, availing myself of what Wesley called "The means of grace," e.g., abiding in Christ Jesus, His Words, praying in my spirit in the Holy Spirit, continually and consciously under the Blood of Jesus, manifesting the love of Jesus Christ to all mankind. I pray today that you and I learn more and more in the Holy Spirit what is true, "Holy Caution."

Father, in Jesus' Name, forgive me for any moments of [un]holy caution. Amen.
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Read of Obama Administration Warning to Israel: www.apf327.blogspot.com
Unreached People of the Day: www.apfunreachedpeoples.blogspot.com

"Looking unto Jesus"

Hebrews 12:2