I Corinthians 7:29-31 “But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;
and they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not;
And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.”
Perhaps that seems a strange passage to begin this post with; especially since it is primarily an update as to what has been transpiring in my proverbial “neck of the woods.” And yet, when sitting down to tell of the goings on here, this passage instantly came to mind. Anytime I’m faced with uncertainty or in need of direction, a passage of scripture is always brought to remembrance. For me, this has always been a prioritizing scripture. A placing of urgency on things eternal and setting temporal things in their proper perspective. Many seem to have this in reverse. Many seem to place more emphasis on careers, family, trappings, and even sports than the deep things of God. While they adamently profess to love Jesus, their conversation consistantly seems to gravitate toward temporal matters. The bulk of a persons dialogue will reveal what they spend the lions share of their time meditating on.
Lately, I’ve not not been spending much time in any of the social networking venues. It was not a planned thing; at least not on my part. January of 2012 arrived and suddenly we had a myriad of complexities to contend with. Vehicle complications, financial issues, Matthew (our autistic son) needing an ever-increasing amount of attention while the costs of taking care of him continue to rise, a looming foreclosure which, from the natural perspective seems unavoidable, and other issues which are far too complicated to convey here. The limited time that I once had to check out links, read through threads of dialogue, even a few seconds to wish a “happy birthday” to a friend whenever facebook alerted me to the event, seemed to vanish into a sea of neverending obligation and manuverings. And yet, these dark clouds of complexity have had a silver lining, and it is that silver lining which is in need of focusing.
As I write this, I honestly do not know where we will be living six months from now. I know that the Lord could supernaturally provide resolution to this situation. Yet I’m not compelled to ask this in prayer. I have done so a few times, but it seems like an empty request; as though my heart is simply not in it. Instead, the fervent prayer request has been “Lord Jesus, my affections are with you; and not on a physical location. I want to be in your perfect will and if you are moving us elsewhere, I’ll be content.” The possibility of physical loss and uncertainty in the days ahead has not been bothering me. Oh I think on it sometimes, but I prefer to meditate on eternal issues with everlasting ramifications. The peace is beyond description and it’s almost like an adventure; not knowing what will transpire, but knowing that God has already made provision. There is, however, one remaining concern. Is this profession of faith a legitimate reflexion of my heart, or just an idealistic euphoria that will vaporate in the event of a worst-case senario?
Jeremiah 17:9-10 “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.”
The recent event-induced internet drought has been quite an unexpected blessing. I seriously doubt (though I could be wrong) that I’ll ever again be as heavily engaged as I once was. It was getting to the point that I was reading so much input from so many sources that It was becomming a massive chorus of noise. I needed to step back and allow the Lord to put things back into perspective. In Ecclesiastes 12:9, we read how the preacher (Solomon) sought out and set in order many proverbs. In a way, I needed to have some things put back in order. There are wars, rumors, and multiple reportings on both; each report being slanted toward a particular world view. If we spend our time reading these reports and not enough time seeking the Lord, we can drive ourselves nutty. It’s very important to stay informed of events. It’s important and spiritually needful to be in fellowship with like-minded saints as much as possible. But it’s imperative to maintain and continuously build up our most holy faith. For me, the past few weeks have seen a level of sweetness in the presence of the Lord that had been lacking.
February 4, of 2012 was in interesting milestone. First of all, it was Matthews 17th birthday. Despite all of the complexities that he presents, he really is a fascinating guy. En eternal soul, created in the image of God. Last year, I began taking him into the streets while sharing the gospel. He now loves to go into the city, and walk around, which frees me up to tend to eternal issues. Matthews love for getting out in this manner has resulted in many souls being presented with the gospel. Also on Feb 4, Matthew and I embarked on the 17th such outing for the year of 2012. Many of these outings would not have transpired if Matthew was not autistic because these blocks of time would have been consumed by seemingly important obligations. In years past, every trip into the streets had been a real battle just to get away from the daily grind. Now Matthew “needs” to get out in this fashion, otherwise he becomes uncontrollable in the evening. (autistic people have a need for “routine” and, once something becomes a part of their routine, it has to be reckoned with.) He goes anywhere; from well-maintained parks, to busy downtown areas, to dangerous neighborhoods.
If I have peace about an area I go; if I don’t have peace, I don’t go. I also monitor Matthews behavior (which is always very easy-going in the streets) and can usually operate within his perimeters. And yet, even though I know how Matthew will respond to most situations, he does have the ability to occasionally do the unexpected. Last fall, we were in an alley approaching a group of people who were hanging out. They were not at all interested in hearing about Jesus and one of the guys informed me to “just keep walking.” I prepared to continue up the alley and motioned for Matthew to come. As I turned, I saw that he, with all of his happy-like mannerism, had quickly waded deep into the crowd and was about to have a seat. I casually went in to get his attention and we then proceeded on our way. This could have created an ugly confrontation, but ended without incident. The peace of God was present the entire time.
Well I need to be going for now. There is a lot of uncertainty in our lives at the moment, but this uncertainty is restricted to the theater of atoms. I know of a pastor who used to tell about the “hundred year test” which goes like this. Whenever we find ourselves getting apprehensive or agitated about a thing, step back and ask “will this be important a hundred years from now?” If the answer is “no; it will not be important a hundred years from now,” than it’s not really that important now. It seems simple, and yet I have often employed this when things were getting to me. It’s easy to become overcharged by issues that have no bearing on eternity and subsequently, remove ourselves from the battle. The temporal seems so real, and yet we know that heaven and earth shall pass away. Well; it’s after 3:00 am. Blessings always in Jesus name.
Colossians 3:1-4 “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”
John 8:44 “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.”
II Timothy 3:3 “Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good.
This post must begin with an uncomfortable visit to the past; to a period in time in which sinister practices were set in motion and then scattered into the four corners of the earth. In the six and a half decades since, these practices have been continuously refined and implemented to a level where the thing has, in the words of Russ Dizdar, “taken on a life of its own.”
It was early april of the year 1945. Allied forces were pushing deep into the heart of the Third Reich and the unspeakable was beginning to come to the surface. On April 4, elements of the 89th infantry and 4th armored division captured “Ohrdruf.” This was one of several “sub-camps” which sent prisoners on to the Buchenwald concentration camp. By the time General Eisenhower arrived on the scene, Buchenwald itself had been taken. After seeing the atrocities for himself, General Eisenhower stated in a letter to Mamie “I never dreamed that such cruelty, beastiality, and savagery could really exist in this world.” He requested that General Marshall come visit; bringing as many congressmen and journalists as possible. The following paragraph is from an article which I pulled up in preparation for this post. here’s a link to the article: IKE and the DEATH CAMPS
“General Eisenhower understood that many people would be unable to comprehend the full scope of this horror. He also understood that any human deeds that were so utterly evil might eventually be challenged or even denied as being unbelievable. For these reasons, he ordered that all civilian news media and military combat camera units be required to visit the camps and record their observations in print, pictures, and film. As he explained to General Marshall “I made the visit deliberately,in order to be in a position to give first-hand evidence of these things if ever, in the future, there develops a tendancy to charge these allegations merely to propaganda.”
It was, without a doubt, a horrific chapter in history. And this is how most people view it; as something that happened long ago. The grainy black and white images of Nazi parades and columns of Panzer tanks racing across the french countryside while Stuka dive bombers provide close-in air support, tell of a world that “used to be.” A tragic-to-be-sure; however, bygone era that somehow seems to have no relevance to our modern society and the complexities of life in 2011AD. Only a handful of survivors from that season remain in the valley of decisions while the images of mass graves, emaciated prisoners, and human ovens (writing this causes one to cringe) have been carefully preserved in the various museums that were established to keep us from forgetting (or repeating) what transpired.
Until recently, my thoughts concerning the Third Reich and its significance were more prophetic in nature. I believed it to be a “type and shadow” of the beast government that will encompass the globe and demand complete loyalty from all in a manner that; in order to comply, one will have to forsake eternal life with the Lord Jesus. And yet, even this line of consideration was erroneous. I was still placing it “in the past” and not something that had any bearing on the now. I knew that many engineers, rocket scientists, and doctors came out of Nazi Germany and that their services were sought after by Moscow and Washington. But I never imagined that the foundation of the atrocities had not only survived, but found a new settings from which to continue on with their sinister experiments. I’m referring, in particular, to the extensive experimentations involving occult practice and mind control. Methods which now play a pivotal role in the drive to create the super-antichrist army that will seek to prevent the physical return of Jesus.
Just a side note. Shortly before his departure, David Meyers issued a warning in his newsletter concerning the military. Behind-the-scenes planners are merging all militaries into the force that will oppose the return of our Savior. Imagine the USS Abraham Lincoln battle group, positioned in the eastern Mediterranian, preparing to launch sorties against the King of kings. (Revelation 16:13-16)
The basis of mind control is this. Victims are traumatized so severely that their personality “splits” and a sub-personality is formed. This is referred to as a “raw personality which can be programmed; that is, trained to do specific tasks without the core person ever being aware of it. Many of these victims have up to 50 or more sub-personalities; each one with a specific task and each one activated (called up) by a specific trigger. While a person will have some home-grown alters that they split off in order to deal with the trauma, most are developed by handlers. The victim is under the complete control of their handlers who are using them to advance a sinister agenda. The sense of hopelessness is overwhelming and oftentimes, when they seek help, certain coven-loyal sub-personalities will sabotage their efforts. The abuse and trauma that these victims are routinely subjected to is incomprehendible by those who are on the outside looking in.
Two presentations of data have expanded my understanding of how significant that season was. One is the testimony of Cathy O Brien, who is one of tens of thousands of MKULTRA victims. This was (is) a CIA program that continued the refining of mind control procedures which had been started by the Nazis, under the banner of national security. The “subjects” in this program were (are) at the receiving end of this government funded abuse. The trail of shattered lives seems endless. The stories of continuous sexual violation, satanic blood rituals, and at least one member of congress being privy to the sacrificing of a homeless man who was picked up at an abandoned station in Nashville, seem so extreme that one tends to shake their head in disbelief. These souls are violated in every way imaginable while most of the population is busy playing democrats versus republicans. (The link at the bottom of this post cantains Cathys testimony, along with commentary by Mark Phillips, the guy who removed her from the cycle of abuse.)
Additional verification has come from Russ Dizdars book, “The Black Awakening.” (at the time of this posting, I’m slightly over half way through its 664 pages) For years, he has been involved with the engagement and deliverance of thousands who have been victimized; both by the government and the tens of thousands of covens that are known to be engaged in this practice. The sad conclusion is this: Nazi Germany was not a type and shadow of things to come…..it was the launch pad. After the fall of Berlin, their methodologies made their way into foreign governments who recognized the incredible dark potential. And just as the Nazis were able to pull off unimaginable terror without the local villagers even being aware of it, certain factions of our government have been able to destroy lives under the banner of “national security.”
I think it was the evening of Nov 30. I have been reading “The Black Awakening primarily at work, because the lengthy cycle time on my machines enables one to do a lot of reading (I work really hard. lol) I was considering the manner in which the Nazi techniques had literally gone worldwide (there are victims and highly developed chosen ones in nearly every nation) when I was reminded of a particular parallel from scripture.
Acts 8:3-4 “As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women commited them to prison.
Therefore they that were scattered went every where preaching the word.”
Germanys fall actually advanced the satanic plan for global governence and ultimate gathering of forces at the battle of Armageddon. early in the book, Russ states that these victims of satanic ritual abuse and multiple personality disorder (disassociative identity disorder) began showing up in psychiatric wards during the early 1950s. Each decade has seen the numbers of cases double and even triple from the previous decade. We are now seeing third and fourth generation victims of SRA/MPD. Their numbers are now estimated to be between 4 and ten million. I know! It’s inconceivable; just as the atrocities at Buchenwald were. (after seeing what happened at Buchenwald, the mayor of the nearby town of Gotha, and his wife, commited suicide) Cathy O Brien grew up less than a hundred and twenty miles from me. She was seven years old when I was born. By that time, she had endured much sexual abuse and had split off sub-personalities in order to deal with the trauma. The actions of her family were sanctioned by a government that sought out victims such as Cathy for their MKULTRA program.
While I was playing little league baseball and eating ice cream, this girl was being subjected to satanic rituals where human sacrifice was commited…..sanctioned by the government. Some of the names that she names during her testimony are people that I voted for. (beginning in 1984) To the average citizen walking down the street, working in the cubicle to the right, or sitting next to us in the local church, such atrocities “could never happen here. after all” it is reasoned, “we have a consitution. We are the good guys who keep the world from plunging into global tryanny…..and waterboarding is necessary to protect us from terrorists” (Sorry; the temptation overwhelmed me) For one who subscribes to a status-quo nationalism mindset, what Cathy discusses will seem unbelievable. Even thoae who strive to see the bigger picture will be astonished. More than once, my mind was saying “no way! But subsequent evidence not only vallidates her story, it revreals a network of evil that stretches even the most fantastic of imaginations.
One more assault on the perceptions of many and I’ll close. Most of us have seen this picture. It was taken on August 14, 1945, following the official surrender of Japan. The atmosphere was one of jubilation and triumph. And yet, while Americans were waving flags and singing patriotic songs, Nazi practices, and the entities that inspired them, were finding a new home within the government of, what was then, the worlds only nuclear power. As this sailer was laying a wet one on an unsuspecting nurse, dark entities had been pouring into Washington for 4 months. In the years following, information leaked out, but was considered to horrific to possibly be true. I’m equally guilty. I used to believe that ‘The Manchurian Candidate” was the stuff of Hollywood and science fiction.
The following links present two places where one can begin looking into this dark practice. The first is Russ Dizdars site. There is so much information here that one could limit their search to a single site. Hundreds of hours of instruction are found here. The second site, is not written by one who professes faith in Jesus. Nonetheless, it covers, in real-time fashion, issues involving mind control, the connections to pop culture, and those with what the world terms Dissociative Identity Disorder. Sadly, as wide-spread as this is, I don’t know of anyone in my geographical location with whom I can discuss such issues.
I apolagize if this post sounds scatterbrained. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around what has been discussed here. As I’m about to post, I just finished the chapter where Russ reveals how SRA/MPD chosen ones are sent to infiltrate the church. While reading, a horrible realization occurred. “Most churches; even Spirit filled churches, have absolutely no idea of what they are up against.” Thanks again to the saint who sent me a copy of “The Black awakening.” Well time to post. (I’ll edit later; sorry for any typos) Blessings always in Jesus name.
The following passage gives us a glimpse into the life of the apostle Paul and his final days on earth.
II timothy 4:5-7 “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
II Timothy 4:8 “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown or righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them that love his appearing.”
If a single phrase could be used to describe the mindset of the apostle Paul as his departure from the physical world was fast approaching, it would have to be “it is well with my soul.” For years affliction and hardship had been relentless companions. The II Corinthians 11:26 perils continuously manifested in his life and each day carried with it a profound element of uncertainty. In Miletus, he told the Ephesian elders who had travelled to meet with him “And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.” From a natural standpoint, it would have seemed a most chaotic existance that no rational person would embrace. But Paul knew that the Lord Jesus had called him to this office. He had not conferred with flesh and blood before travelling far hence into the Gentiles and he did not approach spiritual issues from a platform of natural reasoning.
And now, this man, who had suffered the loss of all things and whose sole desire for being in this world was to be about the Fathers business, was nearing the end of his journey. Soon he would make his last confession; that Jesus Christ is Messiah. The only begotten Son of God, who paid for our sins with his own blood, and has gone to prepare a place for those who receive him by faith. There is a level of grace; a level of fellowship with the Lord, that is only present at the time of ones departure at the hands of those who know not God. History is filled with stories of those whose faces shone like the sun as they were living out their final seconds. From the midst of the flames, in the arena overrun by lions, and kneeled before the business end of the gillotine, they testified of a Savior whose presence is so real that everything else was merely a formality. These truly understood the words of Steven; “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God.“
This level of departing grace will not be found by one who is lukewarm or half-hearted. Those who retain any love for their lives in this world or have neglected to build up their most holy faith will not be prepared to endure the final chapter of their testimony and many will seek our a compromise. These will justify their actions in various ways; from “I have to take care of my family because we know what I Timothy 5:8 says” to “God is loving and he understands my situation.” At the critical moment, millions will discover how powerless and deadly a form of godliness can be. It is important that none of us take this issue lighty; especially those of us who came to repentance and faith in Jesus without having to face any real consequences for doing so. But even though we have yet to be tried at the ultimate level, if we let go of all things frivillous now and draw close to the Lord Jesus; ensuring that he is our first love above all else, he will sustain us. Our God is able to keep us from failing in the hour of temptation, if we are abiding fully in him.
A while back, a missionary with a very unique story visited our area. After spending years in the corporate world, he is now working as a missionary inside China. He sold everything here and moved overseas in obediance to the heavenly vision. Naturally, there are limitations to what can be done due to the political situation, but the Lord has been opening doors unexpectedly. It is reported that, nationwide, 20,000 souls are coming to Jesus every day and the need for discipleship is incredible. It takes Matthew 9:37-38 to an entirely new level. As he was telling his story, he mentioned five primary things that are being emphasized to the saints in China. These five things are equally important for us as we may well have to face similar circumstances in the future.
1 – “Intentional. Always be ready to testify about Jesus.” We never know when a divine appointment will be present and when someones heart will be recieptive. The missionary then issued a challenge. “Do we awaken each morning prepared, and looking for, opportunities to share Jesus? Or do we just go about our day and give it little thought?” I have to admit that many times I just want to be alone and that I don’t seek opportunities as I should. This has caused me to re-evaluate the way that I approach the various venues of my life. It’s easy to say “I’m so busy” while souls are perishing. We have to let go of the excuses and be about our Fathers business. Eternal souls in the U.S. are perishing; just as eternal souls in China are perishing.
2 – “Always be ready to memorize more scripture.” Many don’t place a priority on this here. In a land where the average professing christian has a bible in every room, one in their vehicle, and one in their workplace. It’s always been there; along with a strongs concordance and a myriad of study materials, and we take it for granted. If we were to suddenly be deprived of such convenience, many would be ill-prepared to endure. Hiding the word of God in our heart is a must.
3 – “Always be ready to suffer for the sake of the gospel We never think about it here. In the west; particularly the U.S. the cost of following Jesus is little more than being called a name or two and perhaps not getting a promotion at work. We need to be close to, and love the Lord Jesus on such a deep level that we’ll stand up to any form of persecutiopn; regardless of its intensity or length of continuance. The missionary told of a pastor in China who spent 50 years in prison. At any time, he could have been set free by simply renouncing his faith in Jesus. But he held fast his testimony.
4 – “Always be ready to flee the authorities.” We know that, prior to his conversion, Saul was making havoc of the church in Jerusalem and commiting any that he found to prison. Acts 8:4 tells us “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” The time may well come when we have to flee, and this flight may result in the furtherance of the gospel.
Matthew 10:23 ” But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man is come.“
5 – “Always be ready to die for the testimony of Jesus.” This is a very real possibility; not only in China, but in any country where there is institutionalized hostility to the gospel. It’s not so evident in the west right now. We know, however, that as the return of Jesus draws closer, the world is going to become increasingly hostile toward anyone who maintains the testimony of Jesus Chirst. He told us in Matthew 24:9 “Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all (not most) nations for my names sake.” We really need to take seriously; and prepare spiritually, for this possibility.
This post could end here, however, one thing more needs to be added. It’s a segment from a recent Voice of the Martyrs mailing in which a letter is shared. Below is the introduction by Voice of the Martyrs, followed by a letter from Lizzie Atwater – August 15, 1900:
During Chinas Boxer Rebellion at the turn of the twentieth century, no foreigner was safe. The Boxers opposed all foreign influences, including Christian missionaries. Diplomats fled to a compound in Beijing, but missionaries in the outer provinces had few choices.
Local officials in Fenzhou, Shanxi province, were relatively accepting of missionaries, so a number of missionaries fled there in hope that they would be safe until the uprising ended. After they arrived, the governor of Shanxi, a noted Boxer sympathizer, assigned a new magistrate to Fenzhou. The magistrate promptly posted an armed guard over the foreigners. One of the missionaries, Lizzie Atwater, was pregnant at the time. She wrote a final letter to her parents on Aug. 3, 1900:
“Dear ones, I long for a sight of your dear faces, but I fear we shall not meet on earth…..The Lord is wonderfully near, and he will not fail me. I was very restless and excited while there seemed a chance of life, but God has taken away that feeling, and now I just pray for grace to meet the terrible end bravely. The pain will soon be over, and oh the sweetness of the welcome above!
My little baby will go with me. I think God will give it to me in heaven, and my dear mother will be so glad to see us. I cannot imagine the Saviors welcome. Oh that will compensate for all of these days of suspense. Dear ones, live near to God and cling less closely to earth. There is no other way by which we can receive that peace from God which passeth understanding.
My married life, two precious years, have been so very full of happiness. We will die together, my dear husband and I. I used to dread separation. If we escape now it will be a miracle. I send my love to all of you, and the dear friends who remember me.”
Twelve days later, Lizzie, her husband, their unborn baby, and six other missionaries, were hacked to death by their guards.
In her final letter, Lizzie Atwater writes about the peace that we have when the end is upon us. For it is not the end. All who are born of the Spirit, will be forever in the presence of the Lord Jesus following their final breath. We move instantly “To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.” We need to lay aside every sin, every weight, every distraction, and every agenda that ties one to this worlds system. We must determine in our hearts to maintain the testimony of Jesus Christ regardless; even if it costs us everything in this life. “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
“Dear ones, live near to God and cling less closely to earth.”
Hebrews 11:36-37 “and others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, they were tempted, were slain of the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
Hebrews 11:38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.”
It’s possible that there are multitudes of professing saints, have never considered the implication of these passages. They portray a life of continuous tribulation and uncertainty in the physical realm. A life lived largely in the outskirts and greatly misunderstood by the status-quo loving contemoraries. To some, these overcomers little more than a curiosity. Others will choose to mock them; “Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you.” On the other hand, to those who are fully given to wickedness, it’s not a joke. They understand the threat that these saints pose to their dark agenda, and will relentlessly seek to silence them. For those who walk close to Jesus and have abandoned the former conversations, trouble awaits around every corner. For them, survival isn’t secured by the arm of flesh or a carefully plotted out course of action. They may spend many of their days in anguish and uncertainty; not knowing where they will at days end or who will become the next person to rise in opposition to the truth. Yet they streadfastly maintain their testimony as they look for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
Acts 20:24 “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
It’s a familiar passage, and yet many struggle to understand it full meaning. Psalm 116:15 reads “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” It reveals that God, whose ways are not ours, does not view departing this world the way that we tend to view it. While we know that he takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked (Ezekiel 18:23, Ezekiel 18:32, II Peter 3:9) the passing of the righteous is “precious.” In fact, there is profound benefit; both in persecution and in martyrdom. There are several positives to persecution and/or ultimate martyrdom that carry over into eternity. The following is a partial listing (I’m sure that there are more) of the positives that accompany the trial of our faith.
1 – It validates our profession. A person will not lay down their life for an uncertainty. Choosing death over compromise states to the curious and serves warning to the implementers that everyone has a moment of departure from this place. Richard Wurmbrand once told about a house gathering in romania during the days of the Ceseacau regime. Soldiers broke down the door and announced that everyine was to be executed at that moment; unless they renounced their faith in Jesus. Most remained, but some elected to leave. After the compromised ones were cleared out, one of the soldiers told those who remained, words to the effect of “We wanted to know if your Jesus is real and would like to learn more of your faith.” Their method of approach had cleared the air of half-hearted ones and diminished the potential for betrayal. Sadly, those of us who have never looked down the barrel of a gun are unable to say how we will react. We want to believe that we will stand firm. We MUST stand for Jesus regardless of circumstances, however, when the prospect of a tomorrow is removed, ones true character instantly becomes manifest.
This is why we must continuouslty examine ourselves and ensure that our hearts are on things above. All who have died for Jesus, did so after relinquishing their hold on all that was temporary.
Mark 8:35-36 “For whosoever shall will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the goslep’s, the same shall save it,
For what shall if profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
2 – The name of Jesus is glorified. When a saint chooses physical demise over abandoning their profession, it relays a myriad of truths to the observers. It testifies that the person loves Jesus more than all of the worlds offerings of comfort and prestige. (Philippians 3:7-8) It reveals a power that’s greater than all of the worlds methods of persuasion. (John 16:33) It says to the wicked, you have lost. I did not turn and today I am delivered from your hand.” (Daniel 3:16-18) But most importantly, the name of Jesus is lifted up and warning of a moment when each person must stand before him.
John 21_18-19 “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdest thyself, and walkest whither thou wouldest: but when tho shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. and when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.“
3 – An exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Suffering for the sake of the gospel is grievous to the flesh, but the reward for enduring such will remain. Long after the present creation; with all of its monuments, and treasures, has been dissolved, those of us who know Jesus will be in his presence forever. Oue works in his name will remain forever and our affliction will turn to everlasting reward. In the myriad of passages that reveal this truth, the following is a favorite:
II Corinthians 4:17 “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.”
“The words “for us” show who benefits from this and how how long the benefit will remain. Jesus told us ” For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” When we from our heart, begin to live continually in heavenly places; being in the world but not of it, the threatenings of this world lose their power over us. The apostle Paul openly confessed “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” In his letter to the Philipians, he expressed this desire to be absent from here and present with the Lord. His only attachment to this world was the overwhelming needs of the early churches.
4 – Blessed of the Father. “Precious in the site of the LORD is the death of the saints.” When a person forfeits the lure of sin for a season and lays down their life for the cause of Christ, it does not go unnoticed in heaven. This is actually an expansion of the previous point. While we are called to love not our lives in this world, there is a special blessing to those who actually fulfil this. Laying down our lives for Jesus is a testimony of our relationship with the Father and exposes those who may profess to know him but do not.
John 16:2-3 “They shall pit you out of the synagogues: yea the time cometh, when whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not kown the Father, nor me.”
I Peter 4:19 “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
That final verse in I Peter chapter 4 touches on the final aspect that I’m wanting to touch on. However, it will require a third installment in this series of posts in order to proprly address it. There are also some highlights from a message that I heard on Nov 6 which are in need of visiting as they touch on the topic of enduring until the end. I did not expect this subject to become so drawn out. As for now, I’ll post this and begin work on what (I think) will be the final installment.
Revelation 14:13 “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”
If there was ever a topic that I am 100% unqualified to address, it would be this one. I have never awakened in the morning; wondering if this would be the day when my testimony of Jesus would mean an end to my days under the sun. Millions “have,” and even now, “do” live in places where this is a constant possibility. I do not have a Richard Wurmbrand type story. I have never been imprissoned for my testimony of Jesus and I have never been ordered to renounce my faith of perish. And yet the topic must be addressed; even in this land where most of the citizens enjoy carefree living without fear of interruption. The time will arrive when persecution for the cause of Christ will no longer be restriced to distant lands with hard to pronounce names. Before proceeding further, it’s necessary to make available the following video presentation:
Revelation 2:10 “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”
Martyrdom is ones final testimony wherein they proclaim to all that their beliefs are more important to them than watching the sun rise the next morning. It’s their final act of resistance in a venue where, for a season, evil is carrying the day. Martyrdom is a topic that many like to discuss in terms of other people chosing its path over compromise. Rarely, however, does a person seriously consider that they may one day face such a moment. (at least in the westernized nations) I once heard the statement “people love to talk about those who have given their lives for Jesus, but nobody wants to follow in their footsteps.” Without a doubt, it runs contrary to the fleshly instincts of self-preservation. It’s a reckless abandoning of all that one has collected and a decided farewell to those whom they have come to cherish. It’s a submitting to something far bigger than ones self and it forces those who remain to consider their own standing.
Ecclesiastes 7:1-2 “A good name is better than precious ointment: and the day of death than the day of ones birth.
It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.”
It’s important to address some dangerous misconceptions concerning this topic. The first is the “a loving God would never do that” mindset. (This is a cousin to the “we’re not going to be here during the tribulation” theology) We tend to gravitate toward the warm fuzzy attributes of God and breeze over the areas that challenge our flesh. One can venture into almost any church in the land and hear a seeker-sensitive message about how wonderful our Creator is (he is indeed wonderful beyond description) and how he loves everyone. (he does indeed love everyone, but he hates sin and cannot allow it in his presence) But focusing completely upon the warm and fuzzy elements creates a lopsided view of the bigger picture and fails to prepare one for the eventuality of persecution for Jesus our Savior “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall (not might) suffer persecution.” For most of us in the west, persecution isn’t even on our radar creen; let alone thoughts of preparing for a time when our profession will cost us our place in the theater of atoms.
John 16:1-3 “These things have I spoken unto you that ye should not be offended.
They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think he doeth God service.
And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.”
The second misconception may be even more dangerous. This is the tendancy to paint for ourselves a romantic/idealistic view of martyrdom thats void of comprehending what it means to stand, alone, when the consequences are irreversible. I believe that this is what Peter unwittingly did when he proclaimed “though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee.” (According to Matthew 26:35, this mindset affected all of the disciples at the time.) This is a dangerous tendancy for those of us (such as me) who have never had to make such a choice. Those of us in this camp face a very serious challenge because, up until now, our profession really hasn’t cost us anything significant. When a person in a muslim or communist country believes on the Lord Jesus, they do so knowing full well that it’s not going to be a walk in the park. They can fully “expect” to be betrayed by friends, family, coworkers, and what have you. There is no “easy believism, name-it-and-claim-it” in Saudi Arabia or North Korea. In these lands, a person being presented with the gospel of Jesus Christ, makes their decision with the cost already in the forefront.
This is the reason for writing this post. This is the reason for the epiphany that transpired in the wee hours of November 1. We are soon to face a reality where compromise in the name of physical continuance will mean eternal damnation. and yet the vast majority of us (in the west) have never EVER been confronted with such a choice. Very few of us have ever heard a single message preached on the issue. Until such a moment occurs, we are reduced to discussing this issue from a theoretical perspective. Suppose that tomorrow, it’s suddenly no longer an ideological exercise. Imagine that, around 3:00am, the black van rolls into the driveway and the agents knock on the door. They give you five minutes to gather some personal effects and then they haul you into the uncertainty. It seems crazy! Conventional wisdom tells us “such a thing can “never” happen here! We have a constitution….and besides; the rapture will take place before any of the bad things happen…..remember; we are not appointed unto wrath” This is a tactic that the enemy of our souls employs to keep the slumberers slumbering. It’s a painfully effective tactic.
Luke 21:14-15 “Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:
For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
Luke 21:16-19 “And ye shall be betrayed by both parents, and brethren, and kinfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.
And ye shall be hated of all men for my names sake.
But there shall not an hair of your head perish.
In your patience, possess ye your souls.”
The words “all men” refers to anyone who is not born of the Spirit and walking close to Jesus. Anyone who has not prepared for such a reality will “hate us” when this season comes to fruition. Right now, we all have acquaintances who may not agree with us on theological issues, but like us as a person. As the end of the age approaches, however, this coexisting (for lack of a better word) will come to an abrupt end. Those who do not know Jesus will believe a lie. A lie so “warm and fuzzy;” so filled with divine oneness and love, that they will wonder after it with intensity. These folks will then look at us with a supernatural hatred as we dare to challenge this brave new reality. Let me bring this uncomfortably close to home. I have a really good relationship with my younger daughter. Sadly, however, whenever I bring up the gospel, she quickly changes the subject. She is a very nice and a very smart person from a natural standpoint, but she has no interest in Jesus. If this continues unaltered, there will come a time when she will embrace a lie, begin to hate me because of who I represent, and…..turn me into the authorities.
Again; it sounds crazy! But Jesus said that this would happen. We cannot fathom how complete the strong delusion of antichrist will be. With the system of antichrist already in place (for all practical purposes) it’s only a matter of time before this senario unfolds.
Colossians 3:1-2 “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth.”
I Peter 4:19 “Wherefore, let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.”
This isn’t even half way completed, but this part must be brought to a conclusion. There are aspects of persecution and laying down our lives for Jesus that need deeper focusing. The most incredible aspect is the uninhibited fellowship with the Lord. There is a measure of grace; a level of experiencing the presence of the Lord, that can only be experienced during persecution and/or martyrdom. On two brief occasions, I have had a glimpse of this and it’s incredible beyond description. This needs to be addressed in greater detail; along with other aspects. Until then, blessings always in Jesus name.
Acts 7:55-56 “But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,
And said, behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.”
Luke 6:12 “And it came to pass in those days, that he (Jesus) went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”
The ponderings which have fostered this post are complex. They involve distant memories of a time when I knew not the Lord Jesus and was driven by forces that I didn’t understand. The reason for telling this is twofold. First, it’s a memorial of the Lords preservation during my season of chaos, of his introducing people into my life in the proper season, and his bringing me to godly repentance. second, it’s a call to reach out to the spiritually empty inquirers in our midst; lest they commit to a path that seals their destruction. This is going to touch on aspects of my personal testimony that I’ve never shared with anyone and will probably foster a playing of “The Twilight Zone” theme song in ones head. (I may lose fb friends over this)
It began with a somewhat unusual (Christian) song that I heard a few days ago. It told a story about a girl whose relentless curiosity and desire for understanding made it impossible to function within the perimeters of that which is considered normal. This restless soul spent her nights beneath the stars, considering the unfathomable vastness of creation. As she beheld the handiwork of an incredible Creator whom she did not yet know, she was certain that he is very loving and wise. It’s likely that most people who come across this song, give it a quick “that was nice” and then move on to the next attraction. For me, however, it stirred up memories from the days of my youth. Everyone who is not born of the Spirit has an inner void that only God can fill. For some, however, this emptiness is profound. They somehow see past the shallowness that most of their contemporaries are content to settle for. Their environment, with all of its dramas and sideshows, seems pointless and they long for connection with something that’s real.
For the most part, my upbringing was average. We lived in an average house on an average midwestern farm in an average community. There were no traumatic circumstances or mistreatment at the hands of others that would cause one to develop behavioral abnormailites. Many aspects of my life were average as well. I played little league baseball, was involved with 4H, and up until high school, performed at an average academic level. I strove to be a normal midwestern 1970s (and early 1980s) kid. Some of my interests seemed excessive for someone my age. I was very interested in geo-politics and current events. I was also fascinated by astronomy and space exploration as, from an unsaved natural standpoint, it seemed to be a doorway to a fascinating future. I was also fascinated by works of science fiction. None of these things would cause alarm, however, this was only part of my story.
From the earliest memories, I’ve had a very active imagination which seemed to reside beyond the boundaries of the physical realm. Despite my efforts to blend in, the world was actually kind of boring and many of the normal interests of my contemporaries failed to move me. I longed for more; something substantial, something to invade the monotony of it all. I became fascinated by anything paranormal or unexplainable. Bigfoot, UFOs the Bermuda triangle, hauntings, anything that offered a more dynamic world view. Amazingly, despite these inquiries, I never questioned the existance of God. Not only did I believe that he was, I believed the bible to be his word. I even read from the bible upon occasion. (Praise God for this roadblock on my downward spiral. had I embraced an agnostic view of the Creator, my situation would have been far more complicated) Yet despite this belief, I never seriously considered matters exclusively from from that angle. On those occasions that biblical questions did arise, I would go to the only person in my life that I considered to be a christian. And she wasn’t a christian; she was a mormon. YES; it was a RECIPE FOR DISASTER!
I Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”
In high school, I became withdrawn in many respects. after my freshman year, I pulled out of all remaining extra-curricular activities. I spent a lot of time alone; pondering what it all means. My sarchastic form of humor enabled me to maintain friends and function on the surface. But inside, I was profoundly empty. This is when I began going out late at night and just looking up at the sky. The stars were almost trance-inducing. I didn’t empty my mind like many teach as being a way to enlightenment. (Another roadblock! Praise God!) Instead, I just…..wondered. What does it all mean? This universe is so incredibly huge and we are stuck on a single planet thats overrun by evil. How many worlds are out there? Who inhabits those worlds? What are they doing at this very moment while I observe the photons emmitted by their star 50 years ago?” It was a never-ending train of ponderings and longings. Asking what is out there and wishing that I could this place to join them. I would go out at night and watch the sky; hoping; even asking, to see something from another world. At that point, I would have raced toward anything that manifested, while frantically calling out “TAKE ME WITH YOU! YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE TRAPPED HERE!”
Jeremiah 9:2 “Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they be all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men.”
Something needs to be pointed out here. I’ve heard of people who can “summon” ufos and they will appear. This tells the true nature of these things. They are not benevolent beings from a star system 50 light years away. They are demonic entities who will play a starring role in the end times deception. In his incredible mercy, God never allowed my callings out to be answered. This was extremely dangerous because, for all practical purposes, this amounted to “summoning.” I think it was Steve Quayle who once stated “when you call into the darkness, the darkness will answer.” Joseph Smith got into trouble when he was out in the woods praying. He received an answer in the form of an entity called Moroni. The first thing this being told his non-discerning inquirer was “all of the churches are wrong; I want to give you the restored gospel to share.” (or words to that efffect)
Deuteronomy 4:19 “And lest thou lift up thine eyes to heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.”
In addition to the ufo aspect, I was simply fascinated by the creation itself. As my senior year progressed, my life took on additional anomalies. I would roam late at night; across the fields and down dark country roads. Mine was a restless spirit; driven by questions and riddles to which the answers seemed way out of reach. My dad occasionally expressed concern, (son; you live in an imaginary fog) however, not to the point of seeking professional help. There was no “charted graph of despondancy” or pharmaceutically enhanced “path of self-recovery.” This was another roadblock from God for which I am grateful. But the biggest protective roadblock had to be the shielding me from deep involvement with the occult. As I was being noticeably “lured” by entities, something seemed to literally hold me back. I also played Dungeons and Dragons with friends (I had a few) and, despite the almost hypnotic attraction to the game and the accompanying entity, (there was a very enticing entity involved) I was unable to become “very heavily” involved. (One of my friends from that group began dabbling in witchcraft and another one is now dead. The latter reached a point where he would go into these “trances” and, one day in 1989, he never came back.)
Just a side note……PRAISE GOD THAT THERE WAS NO INTERNET BACK IN THOSE DAYS! The way that I was wired at the time, having so much information at my disposal (especially information on the occult) would have been the final nail in my spiritual coffin. One can say “well there are a lot of christian sites” but in those days, I wouldn’t have sought them out.
Acts 10:38 “How God annointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.”
This story could have ended in a number of ways. I could have been commited to the care of psychologists, placed on a neverending program of medications, given over to ungodly therapists, and been lost forever. I could have plunged headlong into witchcraft; a venture that I believe was curtailed by a prevailing fear of God. The fear of God was like being inside a big protective bubble in those days. It restricted how far I was willing to venture. I could have ended up passing through increasingly destablizing stages of demonic possession. I could have become depressed to the point of cutting short my days under the sun. But none of this happened. In June of 1983, the girl next door, went to live with relatives down near Elkhart. These folks were Christians; real Christians who loved Jesus. As I became a regular visitor (Teresa and I had been friends for years.) something began to happen. The Holy Spirit began revealing to me my sinful state. I found myself “wanting what this family had.” In September of 1983, that I believed on Jesus and was born of the Spirit.
I don’t know if this can speak to anyone or even if it’s good to enter this into a public forum. These things are long since under the blood of Jesus. I don’t know if the above song is a real testimony or just cleverly assembled lyrics which cause one to consider that “Maybe there’s a loving God.” Either way, the story involves a behavioral anomalie which, until hearing this, I was certain that “nobody else in the entire history of the world had ever engaged in.” (lol) Today, I still love to spend time under the stars; especially after work, (I’m on second shift which makes this very easy) however, I no longer entertain vain imaginations. Now it’s time of incredible prayer and fellowship with the Lord Jesus. The distractions of the day are on hold and it’s just me and the Lord. This actually began right after I was saved. I continued to go outside, however, that was where the similarities with the past ended. Now it was a hurrying to be with my Savior, who had pulled me out of darkness and into his marvellous light.
Jeremiah 33:3 “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.”
Many of us memorized Psalm 118:24 long ago. It reads “This is a day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” It’s a call to be grateful and rejoice in our Creator, who holds in his hand the breath of life and appointed for this day to be; even before the foundation of the world. As we approach the end of the age, a more ominous dimension is added. We don’t know how many days remain until peace and safety is swallowed up by unfathomable upheaval. In many parts of the world, this has already transpired. And while mystery Babylon sits precariously upon a foundation of illusion, devices have been forecast that will bring her down in a moment. (Revelation 18:8-10) It’s not only judgment against a nation that has gone astray, it is the fulfilling of scripture. We should be thankful for every day of continuance that the Lord allows. Each one carries opportunities for folks to believe on Jesus and each one presents opportunities for us to lay up treasure in heaven. Very soon, however, this temporal season that will give way to what Jesus described as great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.”
Giving thought to the end of everything familiar is by no means pleasant; nor should it be. It will mean billions going into eternity; with no warning, and without having a relationship with Jesus. It will be the undoing of millions of professing Christians, who, in the day of trying, discovered that their roots never grew beyond the superficial. It will be a time of shaking like the world has never seen and the hearts of all will be revealed. It will be season in which we will be hated, betrayed, and even killed by those closest to us. I once read the statement that, as the time draws near, a person will either completely love the Lord Jesus or they will completely hate him; along with those who maintain his testimony. In addition to this, we may well face situations where those in our own household may say to us “we’re starving dad; please can’t we just go along with the system (receive a mark) to get something to eat. God is love; he will understand.”
The question remains; do any of us have even a clue as to the treacherous nature of these times? Even while writing about it, I don’t grasp the whole of what is being discussed here.
During the August 17, 2011 Omegaman broadcast, (there,s a link at the bottom of this post) Steve Quayle mentioned the number seventeen as representing Gods protection of his own during times of judgment. Out of curiosity, I looked up the words “seventeen” and “seventeenth.” In Genesis 7:11 we find that “in the second month, on the seventeenth day of of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened.” A perfect picture of Gods protection when everything is being swept away. In Genesis 8:4, we find that “the ark rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, upon the mountains of Ararat.” In Genesis chapter 37, we find that Joseph was seventeen when he had his dream; a dream that would set in motion the chain of events that led to surviving a famine of epic proportions. In 2011, as the finishing touches of the antichrist system are being set in place, we can place our complete confidence in the Lord Jesus who has promised to be with us even until the end of the world.
II Corinthians 5:1 “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”
This post is primarily a revisiting of passages that many know well, however the urgency of the topic makes a revisiting of them a needful endeavor; beginning with:
II Chronicles 20:12 (2012?) “O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee.”
In Jehoshaphats day, the Lord wrought a mighty deliverance from the invading armies of the Ammonites, the Moabites and the children of Mt Seir. In our day we will be facing overwhelming circumstances; even to the point of being overcome in the physical (Revelation 13:7) in like manner, we will have to keep our eyes fixed firmly upon Jesus. “But our eyes are upon thee.” Any compromise of this steadfastness will sow the seeds of compromise and shipwreck. Oftentimes I revisit the example of my own household being in severe want (aka “starving”) because I refuse to accept a mark. In our own strength, we cannot possibly endure such a situation, where even natural affection is pleading with us to “stop grandstanding; your children are starving…..and you know what I Timothy 5:8 says about that.” We must prepare spiritually for the time when such a decision will be demanded of us. We must maintain our testimony of Jesus and not be swayed by any temptation to compromise. (We should remember that temptation will often present itself as “the morally right thing to do”) This isn’t easy to write about as I have unsaved loved ones in my own household.
Luke 21:16-19 “And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, (people turning over their own children) and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends, and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.
And ye shall be hated of all men for my names sake.
But there shall not an hair of your head perish
In your patience possess ye your souls.”
Psalm 91:1 reads “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” To “dwell in the presence of the Lord. Some of the definitions of “dwell” that Websters offers are “to live as a resident, to keep the attention directed,” and “to speak or write insistantly.” It’s the place where our affections are maintained. With the shaking that is soon to remove everything build upon a sandy lot, we must determine to dwell in the presence of the Lord Jesus. During our recent (and still ongoing) financial crisis, I often said in prayer, “Lord; regardless of what transpires here, my eyes are upon thee. My affections are in heavenly places; even if we have to live in a van down by the river.” It was, and is, a determination to look at the eternal and not be sidetracked by the temporal. To dwell with the Lord Jesus continually; regardless of goings on in the neighborhood. This will be the level of commitment required to survive the comming upheaval. As one proceeds through psalm 91, they see that the Lord can sustain us in the most inhospitable of senarios.
Psalm 91:5-8 “Thou shall not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.”
Colossians 3:1-2 “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God
Set your affections on things above, not on things of the earth..”
Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Well I have to be going for now. The following links are to four broadcasts which transpired from August 16 to August 18, 2011. They discuss the times in which we live and offer encouragement to those who love the Lord Jesus.
The following passages will be very familiar to any who gives thought to the time of the end, along with the accompanying deception.
Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”
II Thessalonians 2:8-10 “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming. Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs, and lying wonders, And in all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.”
Both of these passages offer us some critical insights concerning the time of the end. In Matthew 24:24, we learn that the deceptions will be accompanied by supernatural manifestation that mimics the authentic. If a person does not walk close to Jesus; if they lack discernment and are not grounded in the scriptures, they “will” be led astray. II Thessalonians 2:10 identifies a primary reason that folks are led astray. They don’t possess “the love of the truth.” If a person doesn’t have enough love for the truth to diligently seek out a matter, they will believe a lie which requires no footwork (sincere, prayerful, investivating) to embrace. Such a one will be easily influenced by emotional ploys, the direction of a crowd, promises for material abundance, and what have you. Subsequently, they make themselves easy prey for the agents of falsehood, who skillfully employ the three lusts (flesh, eyes, pride of life) to lure the lukewarm and undiscerning away from the Lord Jesus and into the domain of what Jesus referred to as “false Christs and false prophets.” Once they step into the camp of another, they are quickly indoctrinated and they become fierce defenders of the lie.
II Peter 2:19 “While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.”
This post is a consideration of some controversies associated with the third wave movement. Manifestations which, on the surface, may appear to resemble the authentic. And yet, if employs scriptural guidelines, compares the manifestations with the true workings of the Holy Spirit, and observes the fruit being produced, they will see that the false has nothing in common with the authentic. (Acts 2:14, Acts 2:39, Acts 4:8, Acts 4:31, Acts 10:46, I Corinthians 14:18-19 – speaking in tongues, speaking Gods word boldly, and magnifying the Lord Jesus. “No drunkenness.”) Before proceeding further, however, a piece of my own story must be shared. It was October of 1983 and I had been saved for about three weeks. The family was gathered one evening and, in a moment of goofing off, I made joking comment that, upon later reflection, I feared may have been the unpardonable sin. A single untimely remark resulted in a depression like I had never known. For years afterewards, even after receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost in August of 1984, the incident fostered a fear that I had “gone too far” only three weeks into my new relationship with Jesus. This incident is as fresh in my mind today as though it happened last week. (Interestingly; if I had made the same comment prior to being saved, it wouldn’t have bothered me at all. It was actually more evidence that my conversion was authentic)
That unforgettable incident taught me two critical things. To diligently watch what I say and to search out a matter diligently before offering a report. In other words, if I’m not certain about something, it’s better to say “I don’t know” as opposed to making a potentially treacherous guess. I literally “cringe” when I hear folks begin to enter careless territory while discussing the deep things of God; especially when a spirit of sarchasm is present. This is also why I tend to be so gun shy when it comes to identifying controversial issues which others have no hesitation in reporting their conclusions. We must stay within the confines of “what saith the scriptures; especially in light of Matthew 24:24. How will the enemy seek to deceive the “very elect?” With a counterfeit which mimics the real close enough that the undiscerning will buy into it. Over the weekend of July 30 and 31, I watched a lot of footage featuring various manifestations of this third wave movement. This topic is relatively new to me as I strive to steer clear of anything that casues a check in my spirit. in fact, I had not really considered any of this until hearing Pat Holiday discuss the Kundalini deception with Shannon Davis back in January and how some goings on today are almost identical to the manifestations in that practice.
Scripture offers a lot of insight whereby we can discern whether something is of God or is not. But when folks pursue an emotional experience to the point that they ditch the scriptural guidelines, discernment, and love for truth in order to obtain it, they set themselves on a path topward treachery….and possibly even blasphemy. (This is not an attempt to be dramatic; I’m simply striving to amplify the seriousness of this) Emotions can be easily manipulated. Following them is like placing a collar around your neck and giving Satan the leash. In fact, I saw people doing that in some of the video clips. One person would be wearing a dog collar and crawling around while another person held the leash. HOW DID THIS EVER GET INTO THE CHURCH?) Last January, Pat Holiday made a statement to the effect of “I never imagined that the great falling away would be on this kind of a scale.” Hebrews 5:14 tells of those who “by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” Never has the need for discernment been greater than it is in these final moments of the age. The following list is far from exhaustive, but it offers some guidelines to watch for as the enemy continues to muddy the waters with confusion.
( 1 ) DOES IT LOUDLY PROCLAIM THE NAME OF JESUS? Is Jesus at the forefront of consideration? In a lot of false ways, it seems as though there’s “the movement” and Jesus is attached to the side in order to give it a christian-esque facade. In one of the presentations that I watched, a prominent leader in the third wave movement stated words to the effect of “don’t just focus on Jesus. We want the supernatural; we want to see angels, we want to get whacked and stay whacked.” I’m serious. This guy looked at the notion of “let’s just focus on Jesus” with disdain. That statement alone revealed volumes about his spiritual state and it leads into the second point.
( 2 ) IS THERE REVERANCE FOR THE HOLY? Some of the things that I witnessed were so blasphemous that I cannot repeat them. In short, however, there is a rampant disregard for holiness, coupled with a lack of reverance for God. They call themselves the servants of God, but show no sincere love for him. The focus is on experiences and they seem to consitantly use carnal descriptives in referring to him. If one calls attention to this, they are instantly placed into the “stuffy religious crowd” catagory. (That’s another trait: rebellion at reproof as opposed to prayerfully considering whether or not the reproof has any merit.) A persons conversation; the mannerism by which they discuss the Lord Jesus will always offer insight as to the state of their relationship with him. Most will be subtle; some will be blatant. In the third You Tube presentation at the bottom of this post, there is one that’s “blatant.” Hebrews 10:28-29 came to mind as I was writing this.
( 3 ) WHAT KIND OF FRUIT IS BEING PRODUCED? An apple tree simply cannot produce grapefruit. Regardless of what a person proclaims, the fruit in their life will always reveal the true nature that’s dominating. We all have a residual sinful nature abiding in the flesh, (that’s not a license to sin…I John 2:3-5, I john 3:3 and I John 5:3) but Jesus came to destroy the works of satan and to give us victory over sin. The Holy spirit will always convict us when we are straying into dangerous territory.
( 4 ) IS THERE A LOVE FOR THE TRUTH? When one listens to another, they quickly pick up on what drives them. In much of what I listened to this weekend, the focus was on experience; even when the experience had no scriptural basis. The precious name of Jesus is “attached” as it were, to the outside so that the package will pass inspection, but the content is noticably suspect. We cannot claim to love Jesus and not love his truth. Earlier this week, I read a statement that floored me. A person was defending some of these practices and answering the suggestion that some of it was kundalini induced. The persons words were “if this is kundalini, give me more kundalini.” It showed, not only a lack of concern for truth, but also an element of sarchasm; the same form of sarchasm that I’ve witnessed in other teachings. (third you tube…but brace yourself; it’s ugly) There’s something profound about this “spirit of sarchasm. The kundalini spirit is at odds with its Creator. (It kept not its first estate.) By nature, it hates God and seems unable to contain itself whenever it has an opportunity to take verbal shots. It doesn’t care whether or not its host acknowleges its presence. It’s target is the Lord Jesus; to bring dishonor and cause confusion amongst those in the ambience.
( 5 ) STRANGE MUSIC: WHAT DOES IT CATER TO? Some of it will seem to be little more than the old (and erroneous) “be like the world to reach the world” mindset. Other offerings will have a profound paganesque character. A few months ago, I saw a presentation from a church wherein Native American music had been brought in to “enhance the experience.” These seek to manipulate people through music, as opposed to yielding oneself to God and allowing the music to reflect accordingly. About two years ago, I went through something profound. It was at our old church. The worship was causing a “check” and I couldn’t figure out why. For three days afterward, it bothered me. “Why was I being bothered by something that seemed to have nothing amiss?” On Thursday evening, at around 10:30 I received an answer. I was at work when suddenly, a number of old hymns began flooding through my mind. “Songs like “There’s Power in the Blood,” “Victory in Jesus,” and ‘There’s Room at the Cross for You.” I had my answer. These songs focused on Jesus. No fleshly pandering and no emotional manipulation; just sincere lifting up of the name that is above all names.
This is not to suggest that only the old songs are authentic, or to criticize any particular form of music. Every generation has songs that are inspired by God. We can identify them by whether or not they bring us closer to Jesus. Anyone familiar with my facebook page will know that I like a lot of the songs performed by the group “Selah.”
( 6 ) DOES IT CLAIM EXTRA BIBLICAL REVELATION? This is a primary indicator of a cult. The Mormons claim to have extra-biblical revelation. They view the bible to be only partially accurate and place more confidence in a man (Joseph Smith) than the inerrant word of God. It almost carries a sense of superiority. This attitude can easlily make its way into main stream churches as well and the third wave seems to thrive on such a mindset.They will loudly claim that it’s 100% scriptural. Yet in what I have observed, the third wave seems to give little or no regard to the guidelines laid out in scripture as they seek to “get whacked and stay whacked.” Where in scripture are we called to get into a drunken stupor and stay there? I cannot imagine sharing the gospel in the most dangerous parts of a city while in a stupor.
( 7 ) DOES IT EMPLOY TACTICS TO PLACE ANOTHER ON DEFENCE?. This may, or may not have any conection to the third wave, but I’ve seen it play out in my own life. In early 1985 I was involved with a church that had suspect issues for a very short period of time. When I would discuss doctrinal issues with others, I would intentionally go to topics or scriptures that I knew they were unfamiliar with and channel (interesting word to use here) the discussion along these lines. (Strangely, I didn’t even realize that I was doing it at the time.) It carries a person into territory where they could not really dispute or respond. Every christian-esque cult does this. JWs will frame a conversation within certain confines and “force” another to stay wiothin that framework. As a result, they run circles around the average saint who doesn’t diligently study to show themselves approved. (But they still don’t have an answer for John 1:1, other than the addition of the letter “a” in their new world translation. “This bible is brought to you by the letter “a”)
There are many more, but this has become far longer than expected. I may go into more later, however, there are more pressing issues on my heart; namely being ready for the return of Jesus and being in a place spiritually to endure whatever we may face in the days ahead. In other words, be sober and watching; NOT “get whacked and stay whacked.” The first three links below, are to a documentary produced by Andrew Stromm. The fourth features David Wilkerson in the year 2000 wherein he addresses the issue of this third wave movement. Near the conclusion of David Wilkersons presentation, one will see the clear-cut distinction between the feigned and the real.
I Peter 5:8-9 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he might devour:
Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.”
I Peter 5:10 “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen you.”
We have a absolutely relentless foe. We rightfully identify this enemy as “that old serpent, which is the devil, and Satan” along with the entire cast of fallen entities. We have no idea as to how many there are, but we do know that they have a common mission; that is to operate contrary to the perfect ways of their own infinate Creator. To substitute truth with a lie, to present a countless array of paths which seem right to those who lack understanding, but only lead away from Jesus, and to promote destruction with every aspect of their being. They long ago forsook the privilage of being in fellowship with God, “with whom is no variance, neither shadow of turning.” Now they are completely given over to hatred and chaos. They are incapable of love or compassion, they are unrepentant in having departed their first estate, and their mouths are filled with blasphemies against God. Their mission is to lure as many as they can into an eternity apart from Jesus.
This is what we face every moment of every day. They do not take vacations. they don’t relax while we are parked in front of a television and they don’t go on holiday while we are slumbering. As if this isn’t daunting enough, we can be assured that, the more of a threat we become, the more intense the attacks against us will be. this is not something to be feared as we are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus. It is, however, something that we must identify and be ready to respond to. For me, a ramping up of the enemy seemed to coincide with a may 5, 2011 broadcast featuring Russ Dizdar and Omegaman. The discussion was spiritual warfare and it left me determined to begin engaging the enemy in aspects which, prior to the may 5 broadcast, had been greatly misunderstood. I began listening to the messages on Russ’ site and employing them.
Very few seem willing to engage at this level, and I’m beginning to understand why. It’s not a pretty place. Spiritual warfare is dirty business. It’s exhausting, it’s widely misunderstood, it’s rarely appreciated, and it doesn’t allow one to go on holiday. After listening to Russ on May 5, I was all fired up. A romantic-esque image of casting out devils and pulling down strongholds dominated my thoughts. This quickly dissipated as the chaos in my life seemed to take on a life of its own. Everything was going wrong, from financial problems to increased complications with our son Matthew (he has autism and is becoming increasingly difficult to work with) Increasingly, my days were becoming consumed by one overwhelming distraction after another. (A look at this blog will reveal a noticable lack of activity in previous weeks. This is why) Even though I knew what was happening, the intensity of the assault was such that I felt powerless to continue; even to the point of wanting to depart the land of the living. Even though I continuously reminded myself that “this is very temporal” (which it is) despair seemed to be winning the battle in short order.
Actually, assaults from the devil are a good sign. He will put the greatest amount of effort into thwarting what he considers to be the greatest threat to his kingdom. This came to light quite a while back while in the streets. I wondered why those who carry the truth have so much trouble getting out. The Jehovahs Witnesses are out every day, like a well oiled machine, telling everyone about another Jesus. (Galatians 1:6-9) That’s because they don’t have fallen entities attempting to thwart them at every turn. The devil would love for everyone in Elkhart to believe in a Jesus who is “not” God manifest in the flesh, and start trying to “work” their way into a desirable eternal situation. But if one, born of the Spirit, is presenting the true Jesus, who paid for our sins with his own blood and rose from the dead; a gospel which is not in word only, but power, that is a real threat to the kingdom of darkness. The devil will employ everything at his disposal in an attempt to prevent it from going forth. In my case, getting into the streets has come to a near halt due to a myriad of circumstances, the greatest of which is the increasing complications associated with Matthew. Every day; oftentimes every hour, I have to step back and ask the Lord for clarity as to what’s really playing out.
Discouragement can cloud ones discernment almost as effectively as arrogance.
Praise God for the increase in both understanding and resolution. I’m more determined than ever to not go backwards. I’m striving to assault the kingdom of darkness whenever and wherever I’m at. If I cannot get into the streets, I can take matthew with me to Purgatory and “thunder down prayers” over the strongholds of darkness. Either way the devil loses. “Purgartory” is the unofficial name of the “Three Rivers State Game Area.” It’s a large wooded area that begins about a mile north of our house and occupies several square miles. Matthew loves to go into the woods and it’s become a place to focus on intercessory prayer. There are a lot of urban-legend-type stories associated with this woods. Most are just stories; the type that any seemingly out of the way location may foster. Yet there are documented “anomalies” and yesterday morning, something came up. While praying about normal issues, I found myself breaking any ancient curses or hexes associated with this land. It was not a planned thing; it was just dropped in my spirit to do so. We have no idea of what may have taken place there five hunderd years ago, or what is taking place now. As Russ has pointed out, we only hear of about ten percent of the goings on in the dark realm. Here’s a web site with information on Purgatory.
The picture that one sees when going to this site is a building where satanic ritual activity was reported to be going on. The building was brought down about three years ago, but the area is still unnerving.
Well I need to be going shortly. Overnight blogging may be an effective way to stay current here, but it can be exhausting. Another thing that has been placed on my heart concerns Matthew. I’m fervently praying for his deliverance. In acts 10:38, Peter tells how Jesus went about “healing all that were oppressed of the devil.” The worlds prognosis is “continual medication adjustments and eventual placement in a group home. I can no longer subscribe to this, and I was wrong for doing so in the first place. Matthews deliverance will be beyond astonishing, and all who are familiar with the situation will “know” that there is power in the blood of Jesus. The devil wants to keep Matthew bound in a maze of confusion. Jesus can make him completely free. This I’m determined to see through; regardless of those who would believe it to be impossible. This will deprive the enemy of a platform from which he has been able to orchestrate a lot of chaos.”THEN MATTHEW AND I CAN BOTH HIT THE STREETS! (without my having to explain Matthews situation to the sincerely curious) Here’s a link that contains a very encouraging autism recovery testimony.
The questions linger. Do we truly understand deliverance? Do we truly understand the enemy that we are warring against? When we see brethren express more interest in sports or career building than the pulling down of strongholds, how can we proclaim to have understanding of these issues? Each of us who are striving to understand, will have to be the spark in our respective venues. I currently can’t imagine gathering up a group of saints to go up to Purgatory at night and pray against strongholds. Many of the brethren; their eyes glaze over when one mentions “the end times.” How can such possibly be prepared to engage the enemy; both now, and in the days ahead? How can they possibly confront a supernatural demonic swarm; all of whom know that their time is short and that they are soon to be cast into their eternal situation? It’s become a continually inquiry for me; “Lord Jesus, do I even have a clue as to the full scope of this?” We need more than a clue and must abide close to the Lord at all times.
Well I have to go. Blessings always in Jesus name.
James 4:7-10 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
Be afflicted and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
Luke 21:15 “For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.”
Wisdom from the everlasting Creator of all that is. “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hipocrisy.” When one ventures into the book of Daniel, they see this truth playing out in full. Up until recently, my understanding of this was similar to a black and white photograph. You can make out many of the details, but the fullness is lacking. Since going through some of the teaching at Shatter The darkness this precept has been transformed into a full color 3D image. I didn’t realize the extent of this, until my daily bible reading brought me to the book of Daniel. (Lately I’ve been reading through the books of the bible in alphabetical order, starting with Acts, then Amos, I Chronicles, and so on) Admittedly, previous focusings of this book have always gravitated toward chapters 7-12. But as one reads these first two chapters, they see playing out, a pattern that has persisted ever since the fall, when a finite created being, became full of himself, and sought to overpower the infinate God who inhabits eternity. All of the chaos, woes, and heartache in the world today, are fallout from the moment when Lucifer said in his heart “hey; check me out.”
It’s astonishing to witness arrogance in play. It clouds the thinking of one given to it; even to the point wherein they will attempt the impossible, as Lucifer did when he sought to exalt his throne above the stars of God. As we visit the book of Daniel, the striking difference between finite and infinate is put on full display, beginning with:
Daniel 1:9 “Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunichs.”
Satan cannot do this. He can manipulate, deceive and make empty promises. He can utilize the three lusts (I John 2:16) and he is very proficient at doing so. But he cannot bring one info favour and tender love with another, in a way that’s void of advantage. But this is just the beginning of the account. As we continue, we find that God granted wisdom from on high to Daniel, Hananiah, (Shadrach) Mishael, (Meshach) and Azariah. (Abednigo) This wisdom was pure and not subject to distortions. The same cannot be said for the non-human enhancements (a Russ dizdar term) that folks receive from fallen entities. Regardless of what the enties feign themselves as, (ascended masters, extra-terrestrials, goddesses, or what have you) they are very limited and the information that they offer is finite-at-its-best. The enhancement that they offer is not dependable because it has but one purpose. To lead souls away from God and into eternal damnation. These beings have a complete hatred for their Creator, a hatred for those whon are made in the image of God, and they are unremorseful in their decision to follow the fallen cherub.
Daniel 1:17 “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all dreams and visions.”
Daniel 1:20 “And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.”
These men had wisdom and understanding for which the enemy had no remedy and this was about to play out before Nebudchanezzar. We know the story well, but it bears repeating. Nebudchanezzar had a dream…a very disturbing dream….but he could not remember the details. Neverhteless, his sleep departed and he quickly turned to his trusty magicians; asking them to reveal the hidden things and resolve the perplexity.
Daniel 2:4-6 “Then spake the Chaldeans to the king in Syriack, O king, live for ever: tell thy servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation.
The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, the thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill.
But if ye shew the dream, and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honour: therefore shew me the dream, and the interpretation thereof.”
Suddenly, the Chaldeans were in a bind. Despite the promise of either reward or destruction, they knew that the entities with whom they interracted, could not reveal this. The Chaldeans couldn’t even “guess;” that is, give an interpretation that seemed to line up with the details of the dream, in an attempt to appease the king. Nebudchadnezzar quickly recognized this tactic and called them out.
Daniel 2:9 “But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed: therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can shew me the interpretation thereof.”
Again the Chaldeans pleaded their case with “there is none other that can shew it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.” In his anger, king Nebudchadnezzar commands that all the wise men should be slain; supposing that this limitation is present with all who are called as such. I wonder if, in addition to this, Satan saw an avenue by which he clould eliminate Daniel and his three friends. Without a doubt, he knew the danger of their presence. And so, he undoubtedly fueled the anger of Nebudchadnezzar to the point that he determined to do away with all who were viewed as having understanding of such matters. However, as is always the case, God is several steps ahead of the created fallen cherub.
Daniel 2:14-15 “Then Daniel answered with councel and wisdom to Arioch the captain of the kings guard, which was gone forth to slay the wise men of Babylon.
He answered and said to Arioch the kings captain, Why is the decree so hasty from the king? Then Arioch made the thing known to Daniel.”
Daniel makes this known to his friends and asks of the king for time. Daniel knows that nothing is hidden from God and that he can make known such a thing. We don’t know how much time passed after the request for more time was granted, however we do know that the seemingly impossible took place. “Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision.” We know that Daniel went to the king, revealed this matter. The result was the sparing of life (for all the wise men) coupled with promotion for Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Imagine what could have transpired, but didn’t. If Nebudchadnezzar had remembered the dream, the Chaldeans would have offered up a fitting interpretation and this dream (which has significance for our time) would have never been known to any others. If Daniel had perished during the kings rage against his advisors, the prophetic portions of the book of Daniel would not have been forthcoming. (at lest not in the manner that we know them.) Every attempt that Satan makes in thwarting the truth ends up returning back on his own head. Yet his arrogance will continue to drive him, along with those who kept not their first estate.
Isaiah 14:16-17 “They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, and did shake kingdoms;
That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?
Russ Dizdar has explained this in many of his series. Satan is no longer what he was created to be. There’s not a shread of truth in him, nor is their a single element of the previous nature. I remember something that Bill Wiese discussed in his book “23 Minutes in Hell”In describing the demons that he encountered, he stated words to the effect of “they had no capacity for compassion. They were incapable of feelings for another and knew only hatred.” They thrived on tormenting another, just as Satan thrives on sorrow, destruction, and lying. This is the nature that he willfully adopted when he derailed himself. Now his time is nearing its conclusion and he will soon indwell a man, whom the world will wonder after. The individual commonly referred to as “the antichrist” is most likely walking amonmgst us now (though we cannot say decisively. This has not been revealed) and is awaiting the moment when he will fulfil his destiny. A short and violent road toward perdition and everlasting torment.
Revelation 19:20 “And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he ceceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.”
Well it’s time to be going. I’ve missed greatly the interraction here. Circumstances have not been condusive to blogging, however, this appears to be changing. The past few weeks have been chaotic, but also a time of incredible enlightenment as to the battle that’s before us and just how perilous the times are. The biggest challenge is striving to awaken the slumbering brethren in my venue. Most of them get a strange look on their face whenever one even mentions “the end times” let alone issues involving spiritual warfare and deception. May we all be alert and watching; lest Satan get an advantage of us. Lest we become tangled up in endless debatings and wrangling over issues which have no eternal significance. Thanks to all who stop by here. Below are some links wherein one can find an abundance of information and insight.
MORE STRANDS IN THE WEB OF DECEPTION This is the site of DBF and this post discusses the myriad of dangerous teachings which have made their way into the church.
BOOK OF ENOCH with preceeding commentary This will be controversial. I really don’t know how to classify the book of Enoch. I’ve read part of it and must admit….it’s fascinating. Nonetheless, the bible continues to be the gauge by which we mesure anything. According to II Timothy 3:16-17, we have been thoroughly furnished.
HARBINGERS 