dennis j adams

During each day there are many choices that we can make in our lives. Each choice can be looked at individually or as a unit that should bring positive results at the end of the day. Some of the choices we make have longer lasting results that can influence the days ahead of us.

I am always amazed at the amount of choices that the Word testifies of and the results that they bring to the individuals. Since the very beginning of time, as we know it and since the history of man written in the Word influence has been part of the results. During the most powerful time in early human relations choices have been an enormous part of God’s response to man. Adams and Eve made a choice to disobey God and obey the enemy of their life. The result brought an influence to billions of lives. Moses made of choice to turn and look at the burning bush (Exodus 3:3) and the miraculous experience he encountered influenced millions of lives. As Israel travelled around the desert they made choices that brought them in and out of good graces with the Lord. They were never satisfied with what He could and would do for them.  God’s people today in the world are still acting the same way! Never stopping to praise Him for what He has done but complaining about what they want to do! It seems to always be on the basis of what seems right to the heart of man not the Heart of God.

David made choices that would influence his kingdom and then would impact a world even up to now because of his resistance to simply embrace God’s goodness. HE looked he wrong way one evening at a women bathing on the porch next door (2 Samuel 11:2). That choice led him into more decisions that caused Him to loose his kingdom and not retain it again as it once was.  From the moment of the decision to look his process of discernment and abilities were blurred by the lust of the flesh! That is what making decisions that are not bathed in prayer can do: Blur your heart, which in turn will affect your judgment. The ability to grasp the truth and maintain the course that God has given you.

Certainly that is not the end of the story! When Jesus made the choice to enter the womb of Mary and be born on this earth as the Counselor, Savior and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) life would change for many in a positive way. His decision to present Himself on Calvary’s Cross as the Lamb of God opened up the pathway to revisit our choices and obtain grace. Pertaining to the influence of a choice, no personality has ever made a choice, which has influenced more people! The numbers cannot be counted!

The person of prayer that makes decisions is truly and dynamically exemplifying the life of Christ. Taking prayer seriously and waiting on the Lord patiently, not lazily, will definitely facilitate the decision making process throughout each day. Prayer master difficulties and relives the burdens immensely. Jesus life went from a praying meeting to a prayer meeting with a stop of at Calvary. He is now forever interceding for us in heaven (Hebrews 7:25). He, being the Master, left us with a example of prayer and just how to accomplish communication with God. (John 14:13-14; John 16:23, 25-27). The matter is to go to the Lord daily in prayer and you will be able to discern and judge what would be the proper choice for your life. The people that you influence daily can either have a positive faith from your influence or a negative reaction to your inspiration of their lives. The choice is yours… Just pray about it!

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Taking a long stroll through the annals of ministerial concepts and approaches has brought me to consider a thought. The pastors and ministers, (yes, I believe we are all minsters in the Church), where are they and what have they become? Seemingly one would think with the maturity of the Church since its birth in Acts that “Ministry” would be honed to a razors edge! That is the farthest thing from the truth. Studying the Word and reading the stories of great ministers on those pages of truth I find that from Abraham, to David there is a length of days that brought a uniqueness to mankind’s relationship with God. Seeking even deeper into the Word I notice that incredible commitment of the “Ministry” to humility and service to the hurting and suffering world. I have studied thousands of page of Church History and remarkably I have found that there has been a real remnant of dynamic servants of the Lord that have kept the momentum going. Moving ahead to break up the ground of the hard hearts and establish a “planting” field for God’s Word. As the turn of the 19th Century came about there was a real surge in Europe and America for true ministerial etiquette and maturity. The response was overwhelming to the “call” of God and the commitment to prayer. When the 20th Century was in its infancy so much ministry was being accomplished in spots across this great nation and throughout the world. Actually this was a very exciting time for humanity and the Church as a whole.

Somewhere in the late 30′s and on into the 70′s there were some radical changes being embraced that made no sense to what had been growing as the “Church”.  More and more men and women began to become self-indulged in their own gain and began to manipulate the core reality and purpose of being a pastor/leader/shepherd. This morphing, as to say, has continued into the 21st Century with results that I believe has caused the Church to suffer loss instead of rejoicing in a abundant harvest. Television Evangelists and hosts that portray a wealth that most people cannot even relate to. Manipulation of the Gifts of the Spirit along with the combativeness (competitiveness) of ministries throughout the world. Who has the biggest church or who is the greatest speaker.  Think of it this way for a moment: Who is on the rise now in “spiritual stardom”  and who is not heard of anymore. Jesus put it this when when He verbally smashed the debate of who is the greatest!

A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves. (Luke 22:24-27 ESV)

Today’s minsters in general have lost the awesome relation building gifts that exemplifies the Word through “love” and “service” to the community. Building great buildings and having great conferences may be part of a entitlement to success but the real truth is what the heart is doing for Him. Serving the community in love and cherishing the very chance to real a harvest of souls for the cause of Christ. So much could be said on this subject but I will bring it into the perspective that will close out this thought: People attend churches today because of the “name brand” pastor/teacher that stands up every Sunday morning and shows his or her oratory skills. Now I certainly do not think of these who speak with such grace are actually the cause of this “why” we go to this church or that church, but it is the lack of impression of the nurturing of a soul. My heart is to see the egos broken and up out of the crushing of such egos will rise hearts of true servants of the Lord our God. More to come….

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Keeping in vogue is not the pattern of the Holy Spirit. Being in tune with what the Father is is doing is exactly what the Holy Spirit is about.  When Jesus brought the promise to the disciple about the coming Holy Spirit it made no sense to them at the time (John 20:22). But after the initial reception of the Him they realized the importance of His presence.  During the birthing of the Church and the incredible numeric multiplication that came about after the Peter’s sermon (Acts 2:14-36) in Jerusalem there came to the interest of all on How they could receive Him. Certainly there was a outpouring of His power then as there is now formally and radically in the world today. Just what is the Holy Spirit to do with this generation of people? I believe that question should be reversed! Just what is this generation to do with the Holy Spirit. when Jesus described the position of the Holy Spirit on this earth it again made no sense to the listeners. His release of power on the earth throughout the generations has proven just what Jesus had spoken.

Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. (John 16:7-11 ESV)

Remarkably during the prayer meeting in the upper room (Acts 2:1-4) the empowerment of the Holy Spirit came and delivered an anointing for the Church. This anointing brought about a new depth of prayer and travail. The dimension of prayer moved into a radical level. It was not going to be the same ever again….

In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. (John 16:23-24 ESV)

The boldness in prayer and the uniqueness of Jesus’ response to the requester. The promise to be heard and the joy that will be instilled through this new anointing. The Church began to grow by people meeting in homes and praying. I truly and most aggressively state that we are in the generation right now that these type of prayer meeting should occur daily. Not just on television but in the living room live with the Holy Spirit. When Cornelius was praying caught a vision from the Lord and his life would be changed forever (Acts 10). Praying with radical faith and in the Spirit will bring the change needed in your life and the lives of others. Many people want to pray to be “in fashion”. To be heard of men but men cannot do what God can and will do! There is a lack of power in words that want the attention of men. When one prays with an anointing and with the Spirit of God through intercession miracles are created and infused in the heart of believers.

Never forsake the call to pray or the directive to pray anywhere at anytime…. “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.(Ephesians 6:18 ESV) Prayer will touch the the impossible and make it possible. When you pray with confidence and with an accuracy of expression heaven will respond with an answer. Take hold of prayer like you would a cup of water when you are thirsty. Embrace the Holy Spirit as He embraces you through intercession and travail. Take no notice of the “fashionable” prayers that go forth to impress a group or the one praying. The urgency of the Word states: If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:25 ESV) This makes perfect sense to the mind that has been renewed and regenerated by the washing of the Word (Ephesians 5:26). Always keep praying with a fervency and bring your prayers and supplications to Him… And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.(Philippians 4:7 ESV)

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God

There are just times, that is right, just times. When you stop and think why am I seeing things in this manner. How I think I should be looking at this situation, nominally, is to have an attitude which I deserve to support. However, as logical as it may seem, it is not the way my eyes are inspecting the situation. Jesus when He looked out across the crowd saw them differently than anyone else. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36 ESV) He saw through “shepherds eyes”. The Creator looked at His creation and had compassion of them. Each of us that walk in the Spirit and live in the Spirit also, should have the “eyes” of a shepherd. When the Good Samaritan was walking down the road and he “saw” the man left for dead, beaten and robbed he stopped and helped. Not like the others that had already passed by. They were looking through the eyes of there own self interest. There are many things that these eyes have seen that I could have really judged poorly, negative or self-centered, with reservations about the truth. I could not though because of the submission to the Great Shepherd and years of praying and fasting. What your eyes see and expect should always be filtered through the Word of God. Referring back to how and why Jesus saw the crowd is such a enormous teaching about care and compassion. Also, it expresses the comparative between being spiritual and being carnal. Looking from a heart of stone and your evaluation of humanity can only bring the results that are not needed in learning to live or embrace life. Along with looking out from your eyes there is the aspect of receiving in from your eyes and making snap decisions that weigh against the spiritual side of your life. In the “self” part of are nature there is a battle to be the conqueror and to be positively right at all times.

Paul when he was going around and imprisoning and murdering Christians in the early days of the Church, he was looking through eyes of the Law of Man. Seeing only what was threatening and not what could become a miracle. His eyes were blinded by the Lord and then reopened by the Lord three days later (Acts 9). When his eyes were reopened they were now viewed people and circumstances through the eyes of the shepherd. Caring, compassionate, concerned and confident in every instant of sight. When we have an experience with the Lord Jesus Christ, are view of life changes drastically. For the better not for the worst. Wisdom infiltrates our thoughts and not the wisdom of men but the wisdom of God.

I do not for a moment, try to conceive nor do I believe that anyone that may read this will understand what I am writing… the important subject of this matter is that you can look and know that your eyes are clear like a shepherds or blurred by the self interest of your own life. I ponder often about Jesus’ confrontation with Peter when He asked him the question: Do you love me?

When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. (John 21:15-17 ESV)

I am deeply interested in the concept that is being born here with this trading of words between Jesus and Peter. Do you love me? Then look through my eyes and see the creation, see humanity as I see them. Be moved with compassion and concern and feed my sheep! Look and listen as you live your life and know that what you see will be seen through eyes of a shepherd. Your understanding will be spiritual and the discernment will be sharp like the edge of sword which has been recently sharpened. When Peter came out of he upper room in Acts 2 he saw the crowds and spoke the heart of a shepherd. Seeing them as lost and hurting he was quickly able to bring them to the place of repentance and humility. A social station where they could make a decision and follow Christ Jesus. Now that is seeing through the “Shepherds eyes”.

Begin each day by asking for  your eyes to be opened to what the Lord desires to show you and rejoice in the honor of looking through His eyes at the generation placed before you. Do you love Him? Then feed His sheep!

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Throughout history there has been plenty of superfluous discussions about the reasoning power of men.  The scripture has stated some interesting words about man and his reasoning. Such scriptures have always made consistent sense to the spiritual man but not the carnal man. When the Lord stated to Isaiah about reasoning He was inviting Isaiah to think differently. “Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD:though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. (Isaiah 1:18 ESV) Man in his own reason would never consider being free from sin.  He is conceived in iniquity and born also to the same. Reasoning in the carnal mind works against the “logic” of God and His ways. Actually, His ways are past finding out and they are much higher that mans. (Isaiah 55:8-9; Romans 11:33) the grace that God offers us through an invitation to reason with Him can be described as the Lord leaning down into our lives and eliminating doubt and instilling truth and faith. The importance of this “reasoning” together is that it is on God’s terms even though men cannot reason why God would offer such revelation to a hindered and cursed mind. The knowledge of knowing that we think with our heart and not our mind is a concept that should be embraced by all. Man has consistently “reasoned” thier way into trouble and situations where the only way out is to reason with God. The effect of the statement: Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand. (Proverbs 19:21 ESV) has an indelible imprint on men’s thoughts and plans. The purpose of the existence of life is to serve the Lord and to cherish life as He has given it. Often, though, men use thier own plans to try and bring a greater purpose to life. there is no quality of life that is better than what God has planned. The counsel of men can be destroyed by the Lord along with the plans of men. (Psalm 33:10)

The reasoning of the Lord is to bring man to a commitment to embrace life through His mercy and grace. The application of truth in the heart of men brings freedom that can be found nowhere else. Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. (Proverbs 16:3 ESV) Learning to listen to reason can be an excellent experience in anyones life. Finding truth in life will also bring depth of wisdom and understand ing in issues that many have debated through history. Truth, spoken by the Author of Truth is, brings the depth of freedom that man’s heart desires both emotionally and emphatically. …and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32 ESV) the process of reasoning can be dramatic and wearing on a man’s soul. The challenge is not to apply arguments and scenarios to everyday experiences but to live a life that is full of purpose and counsel of the Lord. Ask the Lord what He desires for your life daily and lean no upon your own understanding. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding… making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; (Proverbs 3:5; Proverbs 2:2 ESV)

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Scripture:  John 12:20-36

John 12:20-36 (NLT)

Jesus Predicts His Death

20 Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration 21 paid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, “Sir, we want to meet Jesus.” 22 Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus.

23 Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man* to enter into his glory. 24 I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels-a plentiful harvest of new lives. 25 Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. 26 Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.

27 “Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came! 28 Father, bring glory to your name.”

Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.” 29 When the crowd heard the voice, some thought it was thunder, while others declared an angel had spoken to him.

30 Then Jesus told them, “The voice was for your benefit, not mine. 31 The time for judging this world has come, when Satan, the ruler of this world, will be cast out. 32 And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” 33 He said this to indicate how he was going to die.

34 The crowd responded, “We understood from Scripture* that the Messiah would live forever. How can you say the Son of Man will die? Just who is this Son of Man, anyway?”

35 Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. 36 Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.”

After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

I.         The World Desires To See Jesus

A.   They came to interview Him

1.    They heard of His presence and power.

2.    They may have heard the latest miracle – Lazarus has come forth alive!

3.    They may have even witnessed the triumphant entry into Jerusalem!

4.    They were there in Jerusalem for the Passover Celebration (Share about the Passover from the OT.) They are from the West at the end of His life/ like those teat cam from the East at the beginning of His life.  Those to the manger and those to the Cross.

a)    They came to worship (that is what people come to do when they visit or enter into a church.

b)   Not like the church “jumpers” or “hoppers” or even “care-takers” who are looking for a sign and not just wanting to see Jesus.

c)     People are attracted to church if it stays with its mission and image

d)    Some come out of curiosity and a mere wonder to know Jesus more.

e)    Some just want to be comfortable and not conformable (into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29) so they can be planted and do a work for Christ.

f)      Which is the high moral standards and integrity! Compared to the world and its downward spiraling morals!

5.    These Greeks actually represented the world!

a)    That which was outside the scope of the Pharisees.

6.    They were Greeks, Gentiles, the middle Wall of Separation had not been broken yet by the Cross of Christ

Ephesians 2:14 (NKJV)

14 For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation,

B.   Just like the Syro-Phoenician.

” From there He arose and went to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And He entered a house and wanted no one to know it, but He could not be hidden. For a woman whose young daughter had an unclean spirit heard about Him, and she came and fell at His feet. The woman was a Greek, a Syro-Phoenician by birth, and she kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. But Jesus said to her, “Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.” And she answered and said to Him, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs under the table eat from the children’s crumbs.” Then He said to her, “For this saying go your way; the demon has gone out of your daughter.”" (Mark 7:24-29, NKJV)

A.   Just like the Samaritan women at the well!

1.    But He had an answer for them, a challenge, a truth that would set them free from the bandages of sin and despair.

B.    Philip and Andrew had not solution for these men

C.    They brought the problem to Jesus.

II.       Jesus Responds To Them

A.   This request stirs that heart of Jesus to its depths.

B.   The Cross must come before these Greeks (the world) can fully grasp the “why” He came to this earth.

1.    Life must come through death

2.    The wheat kernel must fall to the ground and be planted to bear life and that life will produce other life!

a)    Kernels of wheat have been found in Egyptian tombs that are three to four thousand years old and they have not produced life.

3.    A harvest of many new lives.

John 4:35 (NKJV)

35 Do you not say, ‘There are still four months and then comes athe harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, bfor they are already white for harvest!

C.   The way to guard your life is to give it and to loose it!

1.    To be true to Christ.

a)    This is what we might see!

2.    To see Christ we must follow Him to our own personal cross.

D.   Jesus shares His purpose and that is to Glorify the Father.

1.    Casting down the powers and principalities, dominions and wicked hosts in high places!

2.    Keeping with the supernatural communication that is offered to all that follow Him

III.      Putting Your Life Into His Life

A.   Take in the light

B.   Be partakers of the light

C.   Become children of the light

D.   Not those of darkness stumbling through life not knowing what life is all about and not knowing where it is headed.

E.    This is an hour of crisis and yet an hour of great opportunity!

F.    Love like Jesus loved and so keep in “step” with the Word!

1.    The world wants to see Jesus.

2.    The earth groans for His return

3.    Heaven is waiting for His entrance to receive His bride

G.   He is hidden now in the essence of His physical form and distinct visual application of His Spirit.

1.    But He is not hidden in us!

2.    We are to show just who He is in our actions and our worship!

3.    We all need Jesus!

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23, NKJV)

“As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one;” (Romans 3:10, NKJV)

“For God has committed them all to disobedience, that He might have mercy on all.” (Romans 11:32, NKJV)

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Scripture:

“Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;” (Ephesians 5:15-20, NASB95)

“Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people), Making the very most of the time [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil. Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit. Speak out to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, offering praise with voices [and instruments] and making melody with all your heart to the Lord, At all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father. ” (Ephesians 5:15-20, AMP)

I.         Opportunity Comes By

Making the most out of your opportunities is really a Biblical concept.  Each one on this earth has a purpose and a reason to be full of confidence.  The Lord has made a way for us to be able to be successful in and on this earth.  He has given us His “Love”, His “Grace”, His “Wisdom” and also His “Understanding”.  There is so much opportunity in this world to do good for each other and for us.

“So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” (Galatians 6:10, NASB95)

A.   Everyday we are introduced to opportunities!

1.    Opportunities to bless, help, gain, maintain, build, love and to have purpose

B.   We need to buy up all that we can.

1.    We need to know that God bring His presence with every opportunity.

2.    We need to pray about every opportunity

3.    We need to wait on every opportunity

4.    We need to make the best of every opportunity that walks by

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, NASB95)

• Do not be sleepwalkers
• Wake up
• Open your eyes
• Make the most of your day
• With the brevity of life we should make most out of every opportunity that God gives us.
• We should follow the blueprint, like an architect so to build as planned

II.   What to do about it?

“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,” (James 1:2, NASB95)

A.   Do your best with the abilities that He has given you and He will do the rest.

B.  We must understand not just the fact of the opportunity but the knowing with understanding!

III.  Who Is Watching?

A.  The world (outsiders) have there eyes and ears open to the heartbeat of the church and her constituency!

B.  Everyone that you come in contact with is an opportunity for salvation, healing, help, purpose

“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” (Colossians 4:5-6, NASB95)

C. Paul and Silas were in prison bound in chains but praising

“But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them;” (Acts 16:25, NASB95)

D. When trouble invades your country (family)

“Though the fig tree should not blossom And there be no fruit on the vines, Though the yield of the olive should fail And the fields produce no food, Though the flock should be cut off from the fold And there be no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:17-18, NASB95)

1.  You need to watch where you walk!

2.  Have you ever noticed how some people, yes, even in the Church take the wrong stance:

• Pout – Praise
• Despondent – Dedicated
• Worry – Worship
• Fear – Faith
• Complain – Compliment
• Criticize – Comfort
• Performance – Power
• Coward – Courage
• Timid – Take charge
• Adverse – Active
• Reprehensible – Righteous
• Religion – Relation

IV. Who Shares The Opportunity?

A.  The Lord does!

1.  His Love

2.  His Grace

3.  His Understanding

4.  His Wisdom

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Scripture: 1 Kings 17:9; Nehemiah 9:21; Psalm 55:22; Psalm 3:1-8

“”Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and stay there; behold, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you.”" (1 Kings 17:9, NASB95)

Subject: The sustaining of the our substance is from the Lord.

Action: Our faith activates the sustaining power of the Lord in our lives.

I.         Elijah Testimony Begins With A Miracle

A.  He predicts a drought in 1 Kings 17

B.  The Lord supplies for him at the Brook Cherith for 3 years

C. He then is commanded to go to a widow (poor) and to be provided for

1.  No description is given just the command

2.  He is sustained by a widow who was preparing for her last meal and then death

3.  He begins to request from her a miracle

4.  She responds and the family is sustained with spiritual substance during the famine. for two years.

II.  The Sustaining Grace of God to his People

“”Indeed, forty years You provided for them in the wilderness and they were not in want; Their clothes did not wear out, nor did their feet swell.” (Nehemiah 9:21, NASB95)

A.  The testimony of sustaining the substance of His people

B.  In a place called the wilderness (desert experience)

1.  Even in the place that many will find themselves the Lord will sustain you with His sustaining power of provision and grace

2.  Continuing to provide even in the most difficult of times!

3.  Here in the 21st Century when provision is at the finger tips of prayer there are cries unto the Lord as found:

“Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22, NASB95)

A.  This is an admonition of the Lord to cast our burdens on the Lord

B.  That is, our cares and burdens are to be thrown away, abandon into His care, so that we have nothing more to do with them.

C. The sins that are carried by so many should be cast unto the Lord as it is put graphically in Micah 7:19

D.  The knowledge of this sustaining grace places an exceptional inference in our relationship with the Lord and the depth of trust that we must have for Him.

1.  Knowing the through all that may seem to be a wilderness experience of desert place: He is the protector and sustainer of life.

“But You, O Lord, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head. I was crying to the Lord with my voice, And He answered me from His holy mountain. Selah. I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustains me.” (Psalm 3:3-5, NASB95)

III.  The Testimony of Knowledge of Sustaining Grace From Experience

A.  The Prodigal son spent all his substance on unrighteous living (Luke 15:11-32)

B.  But he was reminded of the goodness of the Father

C. He was assured that he at least could have a place in the house as a servant

D.  But what he found was the the absolute restoration of the sustaining power of the Father, not just awkward moment in an embrace that was longed prayed for!

1.  The Father was waiting daily for the return of the son

2.  Desiring to sustain Him again

3.  Knowing the grace and the substance had not been spent from His heart to His child!

Prayer and Praise:

“Sustain me according to Your word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope.” (Psalm 119:116, NASB95)

Prayer and Promise:

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” (Isaiah 46:4, NIV)

Prayer and Power:

“Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.” (Psalm 51:12, NKJV)

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (Psalm 51:12, NIV)

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

The obvious and almost worn out statement is: We are living in the most crucial time since the 1930′s! Yes, times are certainly rocky and each day brings new surprises. The vast opportunities that were once at our fingertips now seem to be fading into the sunset. Night is upon us and the concern of what the next will bring has already raised the anxiety bar higher than ever before. The certainty of the hour is at a critical stage. Which brings us to a place where critical decisions are being made. In many states the monies have plummeted to below records breaking historical marks. People are just wondering what is coming over the next horizon. The promises of a new day and a fix to the dysfunctional economy seems to be growing further away, not any closer. There is always an answer to every critical situation and there is always hope to every dark moment that may shut out the light.

The decisions that should be made must involve the prayer and the Word of God. Looking into the heat of God through the eyes of prayer can instill hope and a deep confidence that will help you in tour decisions. Seeking the wisdom of the Lord by reading His Word will definitely help make proper decisions during this historical time we live in. Each of us have amble time to pray and study to so we would have a genuine resolution reached after the consideration of our circumstances.

Coming out of the place called “The Valley of Decision” is a remarkable sense of accomplishment and freedom. Knowing that what has been decided will now be appropriated and set into action. Often when in that “valley” the times become so critical that you sense isolation and even separation from God Himself. Of course this is as far the truth as one could be! He never leaves us nor forsakes us and He is with us wherever we go. During such times your mind may wonder and even ramble with thoughts of discouragement and disillusionment but ‘fear not for He is with you’!

Jesus made a statement that has been a real “pillar” and a place of refuge for many in times like these. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34 ESV) What the Lord is stressing to tell each generation is that we should not be anxious about life. That He has it in control, each and every day! Worry and fear can destroy confidence and take from what the Lord desires to do for you! From the Lord’s point of view life is full and abundant with blessings and hope! From the point of view that people allow themselves to get, life is turmoil and full of let downs and broken promises. Trying to make functional decisions from that stance will only bring more difficulties into your situation. The reason is quite simple the faith that is needed to bring the results is bruised and weak when it needs to be prime and strong. The Lord takes care of the birds in the air, the flowers in the field, and being anxious will not add a single day or length to your life (Matthew 6:27). The approach and attitude to have in these critical times is a focused faith and an attitude of expectancy. The Lord knows what is needed and He can take care of it all! Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, (Ephesians 3:20 ESV). The formula for faith during these times is the same formula that has ben used since the beginning of time. It is this:But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6:33). Times may change but He does not! His promise of provision is eternal and full of grace. Hie mercy endures forever and He sees the next moment before it happens. Learn to trust Him and realize that during the roughest of storms and the calmest of seas He is there, Always guiding and always providing. There is hope and there is surety in Him! God is the Author of making critical decisions in critical times. He saw this earth and its devastation and the end result of sin. He made the decision to send His Son, Jesus Christ to come and save mankind from a horrific future with out hope. Jesus made the decision to do what His Father wanted and was nailed to the Cross of Calvary so we could have a life that is full and abundant. Not one that is lacking and empty! Seek Him and trust in promises of the Word. Everywhere that you look in the Word you will find Him bringing the right and tried results for mankind during critical times.

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.

Recently I noticed inventory going on in stores. It made me stop and think for a moment of a subject that is less spoken about in the hour we live in. The subject is “Spiritual Inventory.” Taking an inventory on yourself and seeing what is still part of your Christian walk. Whether it is something that you may have held on to since you gave your heart to the Lord. Also, something that you have not held on to that came into your life when you repented unto Him. There are quite a number of items that could be mentioned on the “should have not restocked these items since salvation” such as:

1. Bitterness
2. Envy
3. Strife
4. Unforgiveness
5. Mercilessness
6. Doubt
7. Lust
8. Pride
9. Hate

The there are the items that should be continuously “in stock” and plenty of them such as:

1. Faith
2. Hope
3. Love
4. Forgiveness
5. Patience
6. Mercy
7. Understanding
8. Wisdom
9. Integrity

Taking a personal “spiritual inventory” is not always easy! It takes courage and prayer to look into the mirror of your heart and find what is in there. David in his praying went to the Lord and stated this:

Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind. For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in your faithfulness. (Psalm 26:1-3 ESV)

David is speaking unto the Lord and asking for a spiritual inventory! You inventory is necessary for your relationship with God and with humanity as a whole. Just to drill down on this subject, what you are really doing is going deeper into the database of your heart and mind to see just what is in there. There needs to be cleansing of such, one that will give you a sense of spiritual freedom and joy. David also prayed this segment of a prayer that really brings it home on a spiritual inventory:

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice. Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, O God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness. (Psalm 51:7-14)

An inventory of your heart will bring humility and repentance which in turn will cause praise to proceed from your lips. The gratitude that you will feel can never be compared to earthly wealth or some sort of a humanistic soul cleansing. You are being recreated in the image of a Holy God! The Lord is willing and more than able to inventory your whole being so that you can serve Him without want. The process is to be able to enter in to His presence, draw close to His Mercy and abide the shadow of His wing. Let me point out one other conclusive part of this spiritual inventory and that is the list of a heart that has been cleansed. Yes, I have drawn and clear picture with this text of the importance of the necessity to inventory your heart. There is this one area which brings it all into a clarity and given ability to continue till the next time a “spiritual” inventory is needed.  It has to do with a Psalm the David also penned and sung unto the Lord….

O LORD, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart; who does not slander with his tongue and does no evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his friend; in whose eyes a vile person is despised, but who honors those who fear the LORD; who swears to his own hurt and does not change; who does not put out his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be moved. (Psalm 15:1-5)

Living in the presence of God is the most awesome gift that we have on this earth. As you can truly understand through this Psalm there is a some depth and criteria that should be maintained to exist and relate to this wonderful gift. That is just the simple reason for a spiritual inventory to take place daily in your life. Ridding yourself of those things that keep you from living in His fullness. Do not try to exist with these weaknesses! Also, do not allow yourself to fall short of the promises for God for your life because of certain items that you find hidden in the deep crevasses of your heart. The Lord our God can and will cleanse you of all this stuff and you will abide in Him Forever. It is not moving day it is “spiritual inventory day”!

Dennis

Remember prayer moves the Hand of God.