HE edits my prayers

I PRAISE the LORD that the HOLY SPIRIT edits my prayers.

When I was 12 I came to JESUS and HE saved me.  A couple of years later at a summer camp I felt compelled to ask HIM to do whatever was necessary to make me all HE wanted me to be.  Just months later, though I was an A student, I began having trouble understanding in my classes.  It was discovered that I had a severe hearing loss and that is was getting worse. So, from age 15 on I was considered profoundly hearing impaired. Mockery and put downs that naturally resulted from my misunderstanding led me to isolate to a great degree other than church and women’s Bible study. 

I spent much time with GOD in HIS word through those years when my kids were at school. Meanwhile at 35 I got my 1^st hearing aids but I still missed a lot while conversing.  Yet, the LORD who loves to use foolish things (1 Corinthians 1:27) enabled me participate in women’s Bible studies and even teach hearing children and work as a counselor of kids at a Christian camp and go on prayer journeys to three countries overseas.

I praise the LORD for my hearing loss for I really believe my relationship with the LORD and understanding of HIS word that has taught me to trust HIM came from HIS taking away my hearing.  A couple years back I got a Cochlear implant so I hear so much more today.  But I would never trade those years alone with GOD.

After seeing GOD work in many situations in my life, in the lives of many in my family and friends, and throughout one Bible episode after another where what I would consider terrible situations the LORD used to do something REMARKABLY good. Just one example is the Crucifixion of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, without which we could not be saved.

Therefore, I have come to realize that the LORD with HIS great wisdom and foreknowledge of all things sees things vastly different than I do.

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

MY thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. And MY ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so MY ways are higher than your ways and MY thoughts higher than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Therefore, I have learned how limited I am in knowing what is best so consult the LORD even in how I should pray rather than go with my own ideas.  In this I obey HIS word.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek HIS will in (talk over with HIM) ALL you do (even prayer), and HE will show you which path to take.Do not be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. (Proverbs 3:5-7 NLT)

After talking with the LORD, sometimes I am given a go ahead, a word, direction or a verse that shows me how to pray. Other times there is a definite DO NOT pray that way, and still other times I get nothing, nothing at all even though I have asked.

It is at those times I most rejoice in the ONE who edits my prayers.

…the SPIRIT helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the SPIRIT HIMSELF intercedes for us with groanings that cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26).

We can make our own plans (according to what we think is right), but the Lord gives the right answer (Proverbs 16:1 NLT).

So

Commit your actions (including prayers) to the Lord, and your plans (prayers) will succeed (Proverbs 16:3 NLT).

And this is the confidence that we have in HIM, that, if we ask any thing according to HIS will, HE hears us: And IF we know that HE hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of HIM (1 John 5:14-15) 

Hugs

Sharon

Mesmerizes

Recently we were given 2 kittens, and their frolicking antics mesmerize us so that we just sit and watch them scamper about.

In our Friday study we have been doing a special 7-week study on GOD’s names and nature.  We’ve been focusing in on one thing true of GOD each day by answering questions from Bible verses about GOD doing that very quality.  It’s not that what I am seeing is in any way new, but like those kittens antics each quality is captivating, and it mesmerizes me getting me to think about GOD using that quality throughout my day.  

The 1^st thing we studied was that GOD is Triune in essence: GOD the FATHER, JESUS-GOD the SON and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT.

The LORD GOD ALMIGHTY Maker of heaven and earth called HIMSELF YHWH and said I AM WHO I AM, tell the children of Israel that I AM has sent me to you (Exodus 3:14). In Revelation HE says I AM the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8) I AM the ALPHA and the OMEGA the first and the last (Revelation 1:11), I AM ALPHA and OMEGA, the beginning and the end, the first and the last (Revelation 22:13)

Who was in the beginning?

John 1:¹ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD, and the Word was GOD. ² The same was in the beginning with GOD. ¹⁴ And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as of the Only begotten of the FATHER,) full of grace and truth.

We see both GOD the FATHER and JESUS were in the beginning, but it wasn’t just them.

Hebrews 9:14 tells us that the HOLY SPIRIT is eternal, so HE too was in the beginning. Genesis 1:2 verifies this when it shows the HOLY SPIRIT brooding (like a hen over her young) over the waters on the 1^st day of time.  

The GODHEAD is one GOD in 3 persons.  Each person was in the beginning and has the same nature.  But we see in scripture that at least in their connection and interaction with mankind on earth at the present time they have different roles while always working jointly and in complete unity in everything they do.  It was fun outlining from Bible verse how each of the three worked jointly together in Creation, the Bible, JESUS getting a body, JESUS baptism, a person getting to become a child of GOD, developing believers into godliness, in prayer, in the crucifixion, and in witnessing to the lost.

In Genesis 1:26 GOD says let us (Plural) make man in our image (a singular image).  This states that each person in the GODHEAD has the same exact image.  Then we are told that JESUS (the eternal Word who took on flesh) “In HIM (JESUS) all the fullness of Deity (the GODHEAD) dwells in bodily form [completely expressing the divine essence of GOD] (Colossians 2:9 AMP).

Speaking of the GODHEAD, JESUS alone has a physical body taken on so HE could be make like us and die for our sins (Philippians 2:5-8, Hebrews 2:17) and become our faithful High Priest. 

JESUS related to HIS disciples, “…he that has seen ME (JESUS) has seen the FATHER;” (John 14:9) and since the HOLY SPIRIT has the same image (essence) we know that by looking at JESUS we have also seen what GOD the HOLY SPIRIT is like.

Therefore, that which is true of the SPIRIT is true also of JESUS and of GOD the FATHER.  For instance, the fruit of the SPIRIT (Galatians 5:22-23) is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, kindness, goodness, faith, self-control and meekness are part of each of the GODHEAD.

GOD the FATHER sent JESUS to die for our sins that we might be forgiven and have eternal life (John 3:16).  GOD the FATHER sent forth the HOLY SPIRIT in JESUS name to convict all men and to teach and reveal truth to believers (John 14:26, 16:8, 13).

FATHER GOD speaks but the HOLY SPIRIT must explain to us what the FATHER is saying in order for us to understand what GOD means (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).  JESUS taught only that which FATHER GOD wanted the disciples to know (John 12:49) but it is the HOLY SPIRIT who enabled the disciples to understand what JESUS meant (Acts 1:2).

The HOLY SPIRIT lives within each believer, but only as we listen and yield to HIM can HE lead us.  What I mean by that is since we have been given the ability to choose, we sometimes choose not to do what we know we should do.  Part of the work of the HOLY SPIRIT is to write what GOD wants in our minds so we know what GOD wants (Hebrews 10: 16) and HE places within our hearts what GOD wants us to do so we will want it too (Philippians 2:13).

The Bible tells us that we are living in the last days and that these days are days of deception.  Therefore, we need to be able to hear the HOLY SPIRIT to know what to do and then obey without question.  If we have grieved HIM by sin or quenched HIM by refusing HIS guidance we have our backs to HIM and our fingers in our ears.

In order to hear and obey we must prepare our hearts beforehand, determining to listen and obey no matter how silly it may seem.  Then although the HOLY SPIRIT was given to us when we believed in JESUS and we are sealed until the day of Redemption (Ephesians 1:13, 4:39) since we are sinners we need to ask GOD our FATHER for a fresh anointing of the HOLY SPIRIT’s power (Luke 11:13) in all things acknowledging that we are not sufficient of ourselves to think we can do it on our own (2 Corinthians 3:5, Proverbs 3:5-7). As we Mind (think about) the things of the SPIRIT, HE will lead and empower us to do what we should. 

Then it is just a matter to do what we know we should do and to abstain from whatever HE says NO! to.

Like I said, it is nothing new but I for one need to be reminded (John 14:26) from time to time. It refreshes me and my amazement and appreciation of our AWESOME GOD grows.

Hugs

Sharon

Learning

Whether a baby is learning to swallow food, sit up or walk, or a preschooler is learning to identify different colors and letters, learning is a process that takes time. Each skill has to be practiced. The progression goes forward when one skill has been mastered. Rushing it only leads to frustration and the wise parent/ teacher takes into consideration where the little one is and when they are ready to move forward. A preschooler just learning her numbers would never be expected to do algebra.

For new and old believers in JESUS the same principle is true.  Every morning as I read the Bible I ask GOD to highlight something me that HE wants me to see. Sometimes it’s something I had never seen before- although I have read through the Bible multiple times.  Whatever HE highlights it is HIM talking to me explaining to me what I need to see. Either HE teaches me something new, convicts me of something, expands my understanding, points out a verse to use in a lesson, or shows me something HE wants me to do.

I love it that JESUS was made like us in all ways (Hebrews 2:17), even to being tempted in all points like us (but without sin) so we know that HE understands us thoroughly and can sympathize with our weaknesses and know exactly what help we need to get through (Hebrews 4:15-16, 7:25).

Since that is true, the LORD knows where we are at in knowing HIM and what HE wants of us (our spiritual growth in becoming like JESUS Romans 8:29).  HE never expects more than we can handle with HIM! (Philippians 2:13, 4:13).  That being true we cannot compare ourselves with others for each of us are different in gifting, jobs, and our level of maturity.

The ALMIGHTY gave us HIS word and teachers, so we can learn the whole counsel of GOD and partake of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:1-4).  By Bible study and prayer we get to understand what GOD wants us to do. But we need to read the whole Bible; both the Old and New testaments.

Things we find in the last book of the Bible will help us understand the 1st book of the Bible.  One example is that in Genesis, the 1st book of the Bible we read about a serpent but it is in the last book of the Bible- in Revelation 20:2 where we are told who that serpent is. 

You cannot just take one portion of the Bible by itself and claim that is all GOD is or wants.  The Word of GOD is like a zig saw puzzle with many, many pieces.  Each piece may tell a part of the story but the whole picture is only seen when the pieces of the puzzle are put together.

That is why Paul earnestly sought to teach all the counsel of GOD (Acts 20:27).  That is why I give references to what I share with you and why they come from all over the Bible.  But look up those verses and check if what I am saying is true for we live in a day when many false teachers and deceivers twist Scripture to get you to do or think what they want.

Praise the LORD, when we accepted JESUS as our Savior by believing that HE died for our sins, was raised to life again and called on HIM to save us (Romans 10:9-10, 13) we were born into GOD’s family (John 1:13-14) and GOD our heavenly FATHER gave us the HOLY SPIRIT to live within us to teach us, lead us in the way we should go and empower us to do what GOD wants us to do (John 7:38-39, 14:26, 16:13, Acts 1:8).  The HOLY SPIRIT helps us understand the Bible (1 Corinthians 2:10-13) and will let us know when something is not right.  In that way the HOLY SPIRIT warns us about false teaching, so it is important to pay attention to those little checks of uneasiness HE gives us and check out what is being said by searching the scriptures to see if what is being said is true (Acts 17:11).

Hugs

Sharon

Working together

I love the chorus of KING of KINGS by Hillsong:  Praise the FATHER, Praise the SON, Praise the SPIRIT, 3 in ONE.  GOD of glory, Majesty, Praise forever to the King of kings.

Today let’s look one specific thing true about GOD.  HE is one GOD, yet there are 3 persons in the GODHEAD. That is what we call the trinity.  Elsewhere it is called the GODHEAD.

The Shema (shema means hear) is the oldest and most important prayer in Judaism. It forms an important part of Jewish evening and morning prayer and is used as a Jewish confession of faith.

Deuteronomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord (YHWH) our God (Elohim -plural form- that means supreme over all) is one Lord (YHWH).

By looking at the word forms of this confession of faith shows that YAHWEH (the LORD) is plural in existence although one in character, attributes and purpose.  You and I in effect speak of the Shema when we talk about the trinity.

It is exciting to see the THREE in ONE in action working together for the THREE in ONE do all things together, working in conjunction/ unity with one another. We see glimpses of this in many places because the persons of the GODHEAD do not work independently but as a unity in joint effort.

Ever thought about who is being spoken of during Creation when GOD said, “Let US make man in OUR image” in Genesis 1:26. Who are the US and the OUR?   Looking at the details we notice the number of persons seen by the pronouns is plural, but the image is singular.  That is because each of the 3 persons of the GODHEAD possess the exact same divine nature (such as love, joy, peace, gentleness, kindness, goodness, patience and so on.)

Here are a few glimpses into how the 3 persons of the GODHEAD work in unity and are ONE.

ln Creation (Genesis 1)

1-GOD the FATHER designed creation for HE works all things after the counsel of HIS own will (Ephesians 1:11) All comes from GOD the FATHER (James 1:17)

2-JESUS the WORD-GOD created all things through JESUS the Word, nothing was made without JESUS (John 1:1-3, Hebrews 1:2, 10).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT moved over the waters (Hebrew: brooded as a bird over her young) (Genesis 1:2)

The Bible

1-GOD the FATHER-It is GOD the FATHER’s message to mankind (Revelation 1:1).  I have always found it amazing that GOD the SON, our LORD JESUS CHRIST never said or did anything on earth without first being told it by GOD the FATHER (John 12:49). When I learned that JESUS had to be made like HIS brethren/ those who would believe in HIM (Hebrews 2:17) it sure helped me understand that.  Also, the HOLY SPIRIT only tells people on earth that which HE hears from GOD the FATHER (John 16:13)

2-JESUS-The bible is about JESUS from Genesis where HE is called (the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15), HE is the spirit of Prophesy (Revelation 19:10) And the Bible ends saying Come LORD JESUS (Revelation 22:20).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The Bible was written as holy men of GOD were moved on by the HOLY SPIRIT to write down GOD’s words. (2 Peter 1:21)

JESUS the eternal Word takes on a body.

1-GOD the FATHER- It was FATHER’s plan (as they counseled together (Genesis 1:26) and GOD the FATHER sent HIS SON (John 3:16)

2-JESUS took on the form of man (Philippians 2:5-8)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT came on Mary and the power of the Most High overshadowed her and the HOLY ONE born of Mary was called the SON of GOD (Luke 1:35)

JESUS baptism (John 3:13-17)

1-GOD the FATHER spoke aloud (Luke 3:22)

2-JESUS was baptized because it was the right thing to do- (Matthew 3:14-15) in obedience of being made like HIS brethren in all ways (Hebrews 2:17).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT descended to and remained on JESUS (Luke 3:22)

When JESUS was tempted

1-GOD the FATHER works all things after the counsel of HIS own will. GOD the FATHER is always in control (Ephesians 1:11) though HE may not engineer a struggle, not one trouble can happen to us without HIS permission (see Job chapters 1 and 2). Although the FATHER may allow trouble to come from an outside source, it is never allowed without a cause (Proverbs 26:2), that is MOST HIGH always has a plan and HIS intent for allowing something difficult is always to achieve a necessary good (Genesis 50:20).

2-JESUS after obediently following the lead of the HOLY SPIRIT into the wilderness, was tempted for forty days by the devil. (Luke 4:2). For HE had to be made like HIS brethren (those who would believe in HIM) in every way in order to become their High Priest (Hebrews 2:17).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-JESUS was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil (Matthew 4:1).

When a person becomes a child of GOD

1-GOD the FATHER-One becomes a child of GOD the FATHER (Hebrews 12:6-7, 9)

2-JESUS-When one believes in /trusts in JESUS blood to cleanse her from her sins and calls on the name of the LORD she is saved from the wrath of GOD and JESUS gives them the right to become a child of GOD (John 3:36, John 1:12-13).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-one is born again by the work of the HOLY SPIRIT (John 1:12-13, 3:5-8), and the HOLY SPIRIT gives her new life (Ephesians 2:5) placing her into the body of CHRIST which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:13, 27).

Developing us into godliness

1-FATHER GOD’s role in our childrearing is to discipline those HE accepts and loves and also to Provide whatever is necessary (Hebrews 12:6-7, 10-11).

2-JESUS nature is what we are being made like (Romans 8:29), HE intercedes and saves us to the uttermost (Hebrews 7:25)

3-HOLY SPIRIT-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches us (John 14:26, 16:13) prays for our needs that we do not know how to pray for (Romans 8:26-27), HE also convicts us of sin (John 16:8) and explains GOD’s word to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-13).

In Prayer

1-GOD the FATHER-Prayer is to GOD the FATHER and HE bends down to hear us (John 16:23)

2-JESUS CHRIST-We are to pray in the name of JESUS CHRIST (John 16:23) and JESUS as our high priest understands what our specific needs are because HE was tempted in all ways like we are but without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16).

3-HOLY SPIRIT- the HOLY SPIRIT moves us to pray and edits our prayers for us (Romans 8:26-27).

In the crucifixion

1-GOD the FATHER-was by the definite plan and foreknowledge of GOD the FATHER (Acts 2:23)

2-JESUS bore our sins and sorrows on the cross (Isaiah 53:4-6) and disarmed the principalities and powers at the same time (Colossians 2:15).

3-HOLY SPIRIT-Through the HOLY SPIRIT JESUS offered HIMSELF (Hebrews 9:14)

Witnessing to the Lost (1 John 5:7).

1-GOD the FATHER-The message we are to give when witnessing is that GOD the FATHER loves us and sent HIS only SON to save us (John 3:16) and that GOD the FATHER raised JESUS from the dead (Romans 10:9)

2-JESUS –The message is that JESUS is GOD/ the LORD and HE willingly came to die for our sin (Philippians 2:5-8) so we could be reconciled to GOD the FATHER (Romans 5:10, 2 Corinthians 5:18) JESUS’ resurrection proved HE was the SON of GOD (Romans 1:4) a necessary part of believing (Romans 10:9)

3-The HOLY SPIRIT convicts the hearts of the men and shows them their need of a Savior (John 16:8).

There is no way we finite beings can fully understand the infinite YAHWAH/ the Great I AM- the Great 3 in 1 who is our GOD.  But have you caught a glimpse of the Trinity working together in unity?

1-GOD our Heavenly FATHER plans, provides and disciplines…

2-JESUS came,taught, did miracles, died, was resurrected, saves and ever lives to intercede for those who come to the FATHER through HIM (Hebrews 7:25).

3-The HOLY SPIRIT teaches, comforts, leads, equips (using the supplies given by GOD the FATHER) and empowers us who believe.

Praise the FATHER, Praise the SON, Praise the SPIRIT, 3 in ONE.  GOD of glory, Majesty, Praise forever to the King of kings.

Show us more of YOURSELF LORD, show us more of YOURSELF.

Hugs

Sharon

Come on

Do you ever wonder why the answer to one of your prayers is so slow in coming though GOD said HE would do it?

One day when teaching HIS disciples JESUS said to them, “the SPIRIT of truth, the world cannot accept HIM, because it neither sees HIM nor knows HIM. But you know HIM, for HE lives with you, and will be in you” (John 14:17).  Then in John 7:38-39 we are told that the HOLY SPIRIT would indwell (come in) believers but that would happen after JESUS was glorified.

On the day JESUS rose from the dead HE appeared to the disciples in a locked room when they saw HIM they believed in the resurrection of JESUS which proved that HE was GOD.

“And (JESUS was) declared to be the SON of GOD with power, according to the SPIRIT of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead” (Romans 1:4).  

Now that JESUS was glorified through the resurrection, and the disciples believed “And with that HE (JESUS) breathed on them and said, “Receive the HOLY SPIRIT” (John 20:22).  At that time the HOLY SPIRIT entered in them, sealing them until the day of redemption (of their bodies=rapture Ephesians 4:30).

Around 40 days later JESUS told the disciples (Luke 24:49 NIV) “I am going to send you what MY FATHER promised but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Acts 1:8 NIV (JESUS said) “But you will receive power when the HOLY SPIRIT comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

The HOLY SPIRIT had been with them for HE filled and led JESUS (Luke 4:1) and it is through the HOLY SPIRIT that JESUS taught (Acts1:2) and did miracles. After they believed and JESUS was glorified (John 7:38-39) JESUS imparted the HOLY SPIRIT to the disciples on the day HE rose from the grave, the HOLY SPIRIT took up residence in them to teach and lead and so much more. So, what is this coming on them all about and why did they have to wait for it?

The 1st question is what is this all about?  With the HOLY SPIRIT in them why did HE have to come on them?  Acts 1:8 says that it was to empower them (or give them power) when they witnessed.

We can proclaim the truth, but only the HOLY SPIRIT can interpret GOD’s message to an individual’s heart to convict or teach them (1 Corinthians 2:10-13, John 16:8).  HIS work empowers GOD’s message to do what needs to be done.  GOD has chosen the foolishness of preaching to bring salvation (1 Corinthians 1:21) so both our words and the HOLY SPIRIT’s interpretation are needed.

The 2^nd question is why did they have to wait? GOD has preset the times and places that men (and women) would reach out to HIM (Acts 17:26-27).

JESUS spoke the promise of being clothed with power 40 days after HIS resurrection and moments before HE ascended into heaven to sit on the right hand of GOD the FATHER.  It was now 10 days later.  The disciples were gathered together and praying. They didn’t know why there were having to wait. The disciples needed special power for the day of Pentecost (a Jewish feast day where Jews from all of the world would be in Jerusalem.) At the appointed time the HOLY SPIRIT came upon them enduing them with power and they spoke of the wonders of GOD and preached JESUS.  3,000 believed in JESUS and were added to the church that day.

Another day the disciples had been threatened and beaten and had prayed to GOD the FATHER for boldness to witness.  GOD was faithful to HIS word (Luke 11:13) “how much more shall your heavenly FATHER give the HOLY SPIRIT to them that ask him?”  The HOLY SPIRIT came upon the disciples filling them with boldness to witness (Acts 4:29-31). 

Some like to call it an anointing with power and that really does a good job describing it.  The clothing of power from on high is from the FATHER, through the HOLY SPIRIT to a person.  The anointing comes so a person may do what GOD has assigned for him/her to do. 

The wait part is walking in the SPIRIT, letting HIM lead us ahead (nudge us to speak or go here or there).  Only GOD knows what needs to be said and when, we really don’t. Throughout scripture you will read over and over at the appointed time, or the time had not yet come.  Timing is set and is important, but it is not for us to know (Acts 1:7).  We are called to walk in faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), to walk in the SPIRIT letting HIM lead us (Galatians 5:16, 18).

2 Corinthians 3:5 ESV “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from GOD.”

Hugs

Sharon

Greater (more) work

“What shall we do, that we might work the works of GOD?” JESUS answered and said unto them, “This is the work of GOD, that ye believe on HIM whom HE (GOD) hath sent” (John 6:28-29). 

“No man can come unto ME, except the FATHER draw him” (John 6:44).

GOD’s work is to draw people to JESUS.  Why? 

“GOD so loved the word that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM (JESUS) should not perish but have eternal life……. HE that believes on the Son (JESUS) has everlasting life; and he that believes not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abides on him” (John 3:16, 36).

(JESUS said) For I have not spoken of MYSELF; but the FATHER which sent ME, HE gave ME a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak (John 12:49).

On earth JESUS was the agent for GOD the FATHER to do the work assigned to HIM.

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, the one that believes on ME, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to the FATHER” (John 14:12).

“Nevertheless, I tell you that truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you: but If I depart, I will send HIM unto you.  And when HE is come, HE will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on ME;” (John 16:7-9).

“But you shall receive power when the HOLY SPIRIT is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses of ME both in Jerusalem, and in all Judah and Samaria, and unto the uttermost pasts of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

We get the HOLY SPIRIT when we believe (Ephesians 1:13-14), and when we get HIM we get power.  What is that power for? 

Power to witnesses of JESUS.

Just as GOD worked through JESUS while JESUS was on earth to do the work and draw men to HIM, so now the SPIRIT of GOD works through us to do the work and draw men to JESUS as we witness of HIM.

JESUS had around 3 to 3 ½ years of ministry and although crowds followed HIM around to hear and be healed and fed, there were only 120 true believers in JESUS in the upper room awaiting the giving of the HOLY SPIRIT (Acts 1:14-15).

But, after the SPIRIT of GOD was given and Peter, through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT preached one sermon about 3,000 souls were added to their number of true believers that day (Acts 2:41).

Now I call that greater (in number) works.  As believers everywhere lead people to JESUS one at a time more millions have come to know JESUS and that is a great work.

Question to answer in the comment section: What does the SPIRIT use to draw men to JESUS? (Ephesians 6:17, Romans 10:17).

Think this over and may the LORD give you understanding in all things.

Hugs Sharon

Awakened by a thought

Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night with a questionable thought? 

I was so awakened a little while ago. But I didn’t want to go there so I asked the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY to turn my thoughts where HE wanted them.  My thoughts began to swirl.  Because of the drastic change of the direction of my thoughts, I am now up writing.  I was just going to jot down the simple concept and handle it in the morning, but as I began to jot down the thoughts I knew, or I should say realized that was not what the LORD wanted of me.

Only through the HOLY SPIRIT can people understand what GOD means (1 Corinthians 2:10-12).

The HOLY SPIRIT only relays to us humans that which HE has heard the FATHER tell HIM to say (John 16:13).

It is Our Heavenly FATHER from whom all blessings flow who told the HOLY SPIRIT what to place in the hearts and minds of holy men moving them to write the scriptures according to their own personalities (2 Peter 1:20-21).  And all of the holy scripture that they wrote points to JESUS and tells about HIM (Revelation 19:10, John 5:39, 46).

The Gospel of JESUS states that JESUS is GOD the Son who was given a human body and came to earth as a baby born of a virgin, grew up, lived, taught, healed sicknesses, was crucified on a cross where all the sins of mankind was placed on HIM.  JESUS died and on the 3^rd day HIS body was resurrected guaranteeing that all who believe in HIM will be resurrected to new, eternal life.

Being JESUS had never sinned, although tempted in all ways as we humans are (Hebrews 4:14-15), JESUS was the perfect substitutional sacrifice without spot (a sin nature passed on by a human father) or blemish (sin) and all who believe on JESUS are cleansed from all sin and are born again into the family of GOD through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT (John 3:3-6, 1:12-13).

When one believes in JESUS, GOD the FATHER sends the HOLY SPIRIT to come live within that one (John 7:38-39).  JESUS said it was better that HE/ JESUS go away so that the HOLY SPIRIT might come to each individual believer to comfort, lead, teach, remind of all that JESUS said as well as help the believer witness of JESUS and strengthen the believer in all ways (John 14:26, Philippians 2:13, Acts 1:8). 

When the HOLY SPIRIT comes, HE places us in JESUS CHRIST (1 Corinthians 12:13, 27) for it is in JESUS CHRIST alone where GOD’s love is found (Romans 8:39). The HOLY SPIRIT seals each believer to GOD.  Like pickles are sealed from spoilage until opened.  The HOLY SPRIT gives the believer new life and becomes the down payment assuring the believer that JESUS will come for him/her and take the believer with HIM to heaven on the day of redemption (otherwise spoken of as the Rapture Ephesians 1:13-14, 2:1, 4:30, 1 Thessalonians 1:17).

Again, let me say that the HOLY SPIRIT only teaches us what GOD our Heavenly FATHER and JESUS tells HIM to say.  HE takes what belongs to JESUS (and all that belongs to GOD the FATHER belongs to JESUS) and shows it little by little to the believer (John 16:13-15, 2 Corinthians 3:18) and reminds the believer of verses to help the believer stand against temptation or direct the believer in what to say or do (John 14:26).

Now can’t you see just a glimpse of the trinity in our salvation?  GOD the FATHER is from whom all blessings flow.  HE along with JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT devised a plan (Genesis 1:26).  HE as our Heavenly FATHER provides for us and disciplines us that we might grow in the divine nature (Hebrews 12:11). GOD the FATHER sent JESUS (who came willingly) to save us from our sin so we could come to the FATHER.

JESUS came, lived, suffered, died, rose again and now is interceding for us (Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:34) and our growth in CHRIST-likeness (Romans 8:29) at the right hand of GOD the FATHER.  JESUS is awaiting the appointed time to come get HIS church (true believers in HIM).

Meanwhile the HOLY SPIRIT is on earth. The person of the HOLY SPIRIT convicts us showing us our sin and need of JESUS (John 16:8).  JESUS is the only way to GOD the FATHER (1 Timothy 2:5, John 14:6).  When we believe, the HOLY SPIRIT gives us new birth, indwells us, teaches us, reminds us, leads us, and strengthens us. Through believers in JESUS the HOLY SPIRIT is restraining complete wickedness that will be unleashed when believers are taken out of this world to be with JESUS at the Rapture (catching away).

Each member of the Trinity honors the other members.  Sometimes it may look like the HOLY SPIRIT is in service to the others of the Trinity.  But all of the Trinity, even the FATHER are humble.  The only unforgivable sin is to blaspheme the HOLY SPIRIT.  We grieve and quench the HOLY SPIRIT with sin and refusal to obey HIS nudges.  If we pray to the FATHER in JESUS name (John 16:23), we are forgiven (1 John 1:9) and GOD the FATHER tells the HOLY SPIRIT to speak again to us.  But to blaspheme the HOLY SPIRIT is to refuse HIS message: JESUS saves.  NOTE: the only reason a human is thrown into the everlasting lake of fire is because he has refused to believe in JESUS and thus get his name written in the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 20:15).

Now it’s time to post this and get back into bed for I’ve appointments in the morning.

Hugs

Sharon

Training sessions

Revealed truth from GOD comes like an explosion in our reality, for the Word of GOD is “dynamite” in the hands of the HOLY SPIRIT (1 Corinthians 2:10-12). When the HOLY SPIRIT brings to our mind a verse that fits our circumstance (John 14:26), the verse seems to explode in vivid colors and startling clarity like firecrackers on the 4th of July.  It gives insight and direction.

Once we see a truth, we get to choose.  We must decide whether or not we will accept that truth and the direction/ perhaps upheaval that it will produce in our lives or suppress it (Romans 1:18).

The SPIRIT of GOD works by nudging us, who believe in JESUS CHRIST.   HE does this by placing in our minds and writing in our hearts the way we should go (Philippians 2:13, Hebrews 10:16).

While the literal interpretation of a scripture may seem humdrum at first, when the SPIRIT of GOD gets involved and shines HIS light of revelation on our LORD’s words, revealing an application to our own affairs it is mind-blowing and challenges us.

GOD’s thoughts and ways are vastly different than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).  At times they even seem out of proportion when compared to our natural way of looking at things.  GOD issues astonishing directives which at times don’t make a whole lot of sense to us.

That is probably why the HOLY SPIRIT reveals how truth applies to us in our circumstances a step at a time (2 Corinthians 3:18) line upon line, here a little, there a little (Isaiah 28:9-10) as we are able to grasp it.  By doing this, HE gradually conforms our thinking and thus our actions and conversation to the very nature and characteristics of our LORD and Savior JESUS CHRIST just as GOD our Heavenly FATHER has decreed to happen (Romans 8:29) and JESUS our high priest intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25).

(See the Trinity at work?)

Heads up: The whole process of growing in the likeness of JESUS goes much smoother and quicker when we allow the HOLY SPIRIT to have HIS unhindered way with us by getting in GOD’s word for ourselves and following the HOLY SPIRIT’s insights, nudges and directions.  We can confidently know that an insight comes from the HOLY SPIRIT when it agrees with the written Word of GOD that HE moved on holy men to write (2 Peter 1:21).

It is written that as we grab hold on these truths and live by them, we actually take on an aspect of the divine nature although never become GOD (2 Peter 1:4).

However, our speedy growth is not a given.  We can hinder the HOLY SPIRIT’s work through disobedience. Disobedience will always bring discipline from GOD our Heavenly FATHER.  And no discipline at the present is joyous but grievous. But, Praise the LORD! GOD’s discipline of us will produce righteousness in us and right action by us as we are trained by it (Hebrews 12:11).

Some painful training sessions have taught me to listen more carefully, obey those nudges more closely and quickly when the HOLY SPIRIT explodes a truth in my thoughts that demands action.

Hugs

Sharon

HE was made like us

I’ve been thinking of our great GOD and Savior JESUS CHRIST, Who gave HIMSELF for us… (Titus 2:13-14) the ONE who made all things (Hebrews 1:2).  I’ve been looking back at some of what HE endured for me and you before HE even went to the cross to bear our sin (Isaiah 53:4-6).

Let’s start with Hebrews 2:17: “Wherefore in ALL things it behoved (it was necessary for) HIM (JESUS) to be made like unto HIS brethren (those who would be born into the family of GOD through faith in JESUS John 1:9, Romans 8:29), that HE (JESUS) might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to GOD, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”

JESUS was made like us so that we could be made like HIM (Romans 8:29).

I started a list of ways JESUS was made like us (it is not complete by a long shot) and want to share a few of those things.

We will notice in this list JESUS submits to GOD the FATHER and GOD the HOLY SPIRIT instead of doing HIS own thing (Isaiah 58:13-14) as we ought to submit to the eternal triune GODHEAD’s instructions and will for us.

1-JESUS, though equal with GOD the FATHER and being a SPIRIT by nature (John 4:24), didn’t grasp at HIS rights but took on a human body, a body like we have so HE could die for us since GOD cannot die (Hebrews 2:9, Philippians 2:7-8). It was a second birth: HE was a SPIRIT then born (took on a human body) by the working of the HOLY SPIRIT (Luke 1:35) as we are born again (2^nd birth) into GOD’s family and our spirit comes alive (we who were dead in spirit by our trespasses and sin are made alive through the work of the HOLY SPIRIT Ephesians 2:1, John 3:3, 5-6).

2-JESUS was led by the HOLY SPIRIT (Matthew 4:1, Luke 4:1) as we ought to allow the HOLY SPIRIT to lead us (Romans 8:1, Galatians 5:16-18).

3-JESUS was filled with and empowered to serve by the HOLY SPIRIT (John 3:34, Luke 4:1, 14) as we also are told to pray and ask to be filled with and empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT to serve GOD (Luke 11:13, Acts 1:8, 4:31, Ephesians 5:18).

4-GOD anointed JESUS of Nazareth with the HOLY SPIRIT and power (Acts 10:38), just as we the believers also are anointed with the HOLY SPIRIT (John 14:26, 1 John 2:20, 27).

5-JESUS was tempted in ALL ways just as we are, but HE was without sin (Hebrews 2:18, 4:15).

6-In order to bring us to glory (HIS assignment), JESUS was prepared through the things that HE suffered (Hebrews 2:10, 5:9).  We believers of JESUS are prepared for service (our assignments) through suffering (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, 7).

7-JESUS, the eternal Word (John 1:1-3, 14), could only teach HIS disciples through the work of the HOLY SPIRIT (Acts 1:2).  The inner witness of the HOLY SPIRIT was necessary for the disciples to understand even though it was JESUS do the teaching (1 Corinthians 2:10-12, Luke 4:18).  How much more do we need the power and witness of the HOLY SPIRIT when we teach and preach the Word of GOD? (Acts 1:8).

As it is written, “that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” (Deuteronomy 19:15, Matthew 18:16).

Amazing, isn’t it that our Creator (Hebrews 1:2) would choose to be made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death… that HE by the grace of GOD should taste death for every man (Hebrews 2:9)?

Hugs

Sharon

Reveals and explains

The HOLY SPIRIT both reveals GOD’s message and explains it.

Some of the gals were a bit dismayed and the emphasis of our 1^st of 3 lessons on the HOLY SPIRIT.  We all recognize the HOLY SPIRIT has power and moves people and things, but something came out over and over as we see HIM come to John the Baptist, Elizabeth HIS mother and more and more.

Let us note that no one can understand anything about GOD unless the HOLY SPIRIT shows it to them.  The unbeliever in JESUS must be convicted by the HOLY SPIRIT (John 16:8) and the HOLY SPIRIT explains GOD’s words and ways to the believer in JESUS (1 Corinthians 2:10-12).

Let us take a peek at what is seen of this aspect of the HOLY SPIRIT’s assignment in regard to people both in the Old Testament and the New Testament.

Genesis 6:3 And the LORD said, MY SPIRIT shall not always STRIVE with man, The HOLY SPIRIT is speaking to man truth…HE is witnessing of the truth to them.

In John 16:8 we are told the HOLY SPIRIT convicts the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment.  HE takes the truth one preaches or shares to an unbelieving person and shows the hearer that it is a message from GOD.

Numbers 24:2, 13 we see the SPIRIT of GOD came on Balaam, a pagan prophet who had been hired to curse Israel, and the HOLY SPIRIT gave the prophet words of blessing for Israel. When the prophet’s employer confronted him for not curing Israel, Balaam said, “I cannot go beyond the commandment of the LORD, to do either good or bad of mine own mind; but what the LORD says, that will I speak.” Here the HOLY SPIRIT told Balaam what to say and the words glorified GOD.

Judges 3:34 and the SPIRIT of the LORD came upon Gideon and he knew the  exact battle plan GOD had for the battle,  because the HOLY SPIRIT had given Gideon the details.

1 Samuel 10:6 And the SPIRIT of the LORD will come upon YOU, and you will prophesy. The HOLY SPIRIT gives people words to say straight from GOD the FATHER.

It is written that John the Baptist was filled with the HOLY SPRIIT from the womb (Luke 1:15).  When Mary, barely pregnant with JESUS, came to Elizabeth, 6 months pregnant with John the Baptist, the baby leaped in Elizabeth’s womb (the HOLY SPIRIT within the unborn prophet showed John that the Son of GOD was present and John leaped for joy).  But that is not the only thing, When the baby leaped in her womb Elizabeth became filled with the HOLY SPIRIT and prophesied.  In other words, the HOLY SPIRIT gave Elizabeth a message to say (see Luke 1:31-34).

JESUS said in Acts 1:8 that when the HOLY SPIRIT came upon the disciples they would have power to witness of JESUS.

It took the HOLY SPIRIT’s work of explaining JESUS words for the disciples to understand JESUS’s instructions before JESUS ascended into heaven Acts 1:2.

We see in Acts 1 on the day of Pentacost, which was celebrated last Sunday, the HOLY SPIRIT came and gave the disciples the ability to speak in the languages of the hearers. What did the hearers hear?  The wonderful works of GOD.  You see the HOLY SPIRIT had the disciples witness to GOD’s glory.  Through it HE also gave the disciples an opportunity to preach (witness) about JESUS and 3,000 got saved. So truly Acts 1:8 was fulfilled.  When the HOLY SPIRIT came upon them they had power to witness.

In Acts 4 we are told that after being told not to speak in the name of JESUS (Acts 4:18) the disciples began to pray for boldness to witness.  The HOLY SPIRIT who already lived within them, (filled them) came upon them with power and they spoke with boldness (Acts 4:24-31).  The HOLY SPIRIT enabled them to witness.

John 16:13 “Howbeit when HE, the SPIRIT of truth, is come, HE will guide you into all truth: for HE shall not speak of HIMSELF (telling HIS own ideas); but whatsoever HE shall hear, that shall HE speak: and HE will show you things to come.”

In the Bible both in the Hebrew and Greek the Word angel is literally dispatch as a messenger and can refer to angels or others,  In Revelation 1 the word angels are explained to be the pastors or teachers of the 7 churches.  Due to context (and context is so important), we know that when the direct article (the) is used with the word angel in the Old Testament it refers to JESUS. Why am I telling you this?  Because we see that the HOLY SPIRIT among other things, is sent to us from GOD as a messenger, a witness of what GOD wants us to know.

The HOLY SPIRIT witnesses to the truth of JESUS and convicts the unsaved and to us who are sealed through faith in JESUS the HOLY SPIRIT witnesses of the things GOD wants us to know.

Hugs,

Sharon