Saturday, March 21, 2009
Gunman Kills Pastor During Service
The Associated Press reported that a gunman opened fire March 8th, Sunday morning during a church service in Illinois killing the pastor. This is the third church shooting in the past 5 months. I urge everyone to please pray for the family of the pastor and those who were injured during the shooting. Also please pray for mercy for the gunman and his family. Pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort the church members, staff and the community during this hard time. Here is the link to the article from Aol.com: http://news.aol.com/article/illinois-church-shooting/374149
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Times Square Church, Strictly Young People Lock In
Last Friday, we had the opportunity to participate in our 1st all night prayer. As most of you all know we attend Times Square Church in NY and they held a strictly young people prayer lock-in. There were a little over 300 hundred young people participating! That is a phenomenal number of young people, giving up their Friday night to stand in prayer for their families, friends, schools and government. The praise and worship team as well members of Christ Tabernacle, also joined us in this awesome time of prayer and fellowship.
The night officially started at 11:00 with amazing praise and worship! The Spirit of the Lord was truly in our mist. We knew that we were in for a major blessing. The night was well structured; once praise and worship was completed Pastor Neil gave us a word on praying for our families and he used the story of Abraham petitioning God to save Lot and his family in Sodom and Gomorrah as an example. Pastor Neil stressed two very important points:
- Intercession – Just as Abraham prayed for Lot and his family, we are called to do the same for ours. Abraham prayed and tried to reason with God concerning Lot. We must learn that it is up to us to pray and petition God for our families and their salvation: Scripture reference, Genesis 18:16 – 33.
- Do not bargain with the devil – This to me was so incredibly poignant. Lot tried to reason with the sinful people of Sodom and Gomorrah. While his intentions were good, (because he wanted to protect the messengers of God), we must remember that we cannot help God! We have no power of our own unless the Lord gives us that power. If we think that by bargaining with the devil we are “helping” God, we are sadly mistaking. Ignore the devil at all times and tune your ears, heart and eyes to what God is doing and showing you. Scripture reference, Genesis 19 1 - 29
Here is a snippet from Pastor Neil’s message:
After Pastor Neil shared his message, we watched a short video regarding the young gay community at the piers in NYC. Next up was Lisa Camby, who shared her message from the book of Esther. Lisa focused on gaining favor in the sight of the Lord, boldness and being born for such a time as this. She spoke about being bold in front of the enemy. She encouraged us to not be afraid to show the devil what miraculous things that the Lord is and will be doing in our lives. We must also learn to answer our calling. It is no coincidence as to where we are in our lives. God has created us for a specific purpose and we must learn to not shy away from our calling in the Lord Jesus Christ. If Esther had not been bold and has not had favor with the king and God, she would have failed at her purpose and her people would have been slain. Scripture reference Esther Chapter 2, 5 & 7.
Here is a snippet from Lisa’s message:
It was a truly a blessing to be amongst God’s people. It was refreshing to see so many young people coming together to pray and worship the Lord. The event ended at about 5:00am on Saturday morning. We were physically tired yet spiritually refreshed! Our God is an awesome God and I know that there were many prayers that night that will be answered by the Lord! Here is a little video from our praise and worship that night.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Dr. Wilkerson's reponse to "An Urgent Warning"
I received this response e-mail from our pastor about the warning that he sent out last week. Again I ask you to pray for understanding and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you about the things to come.
A PASTOR’S RESPONSE TO “AN URGENT WARNING”
It is the task of a true prophet to warn. We have recently heard such a clear warning of perilous days just ahead of us. The prophet is like a man who comes to warn a shepherd that ravenous wolves are approaching. It then becomes the shepherd’s task to appropriately discern the warning and to guide those in his care to a place of wisdom and security. I am not a prophet. I am a local pastor. I must ask myself what I am to do in light of hearing the warning from God. What should I say to those under my pastoral care? First, I want my people to clearly hear the word. What is it saying and what is it not saying. Some have heard of fires and looting and their hearts are filled with fear. I am to assure my people that God is always completely in control. God is sovereign. Nothing takes place outside of his notice and counsel, and all things happen for his ultimate, highest glory. Even in the most troubling of times, our God knows exactly what he is doing.
Second, I want those I serve to know two things concerning God’s wrath. First, some leaders in the church have sadly fallen into the deception that there is no such thing as the wrath of God. Roman 1:18 says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.” Some act in ungodly ways, others are ungodly by their suppressing the truth of God’s wrath. Some leaders reduce, ignore and even ridicule anyone who reminds them of the certainty of God’s wrath. Romans 2:5 also tells us clearly that the wrath of God is toward those whose hearts are hard and impenitent. This leads to the second element of understanding God’s wrath. It is never, ever, ever poured out on the children of God. In I John 2:2 “He is the propitiation for our sins.” The word propitiation means “wrath quencher.” What marvelous grace, what redemption! God’s wrath at my rebellion and sin has been quenched on the Cross of Christ. Hard times come; rain falls even on the just but wrath does not.
Last, I am obligated to guide the flock given to me with loving-kindness and soberness. If a wolf or a storm is coming, I as a shepherd must know the conditions of my flock. Are any sitting on the fence? Warn them that this is no time for compromise or close affiliation with the world. Partying in the house of an Egyptian on the night of the Passover is definitely not a good idea. This is a time to stay close to the Chief Shepherd. This is also an opportunity for us to call out to those outside the gate. Jesus is the Door and has opened his heart. His cry it that all flee from wrath to come. More than shrinking behind a double-locked door or fleeing to a rural farm, this is a call from Jesus to move your life into the sheepfold. When a prophet comes with a message of warning, often people want the prophet to give them specific advice about what to do in response. At times, God gives the prophet a word, but more often it is up to the shepherd, and even more so, up to every man of God to take the word into account for his own family. Just as a pastor has stewardship of the church, a man of God is to give an account of his own family. When one comes to warn that wolves are coming, it is not always his responsibility to tell them what to do. We can hear from God. Joseph heard God say to store up food for the season to come (Genesis 41). Moses heard God say to receive gifts from the Egyptians for their journey (Exodus12). We as well can hear from God for our situation. Sheep do hear the Shepherd’s voice. Jesus—in this hour, in this storm—will not only guide his people and comfort his flock but will also give them boldness, confidence and a heart to serve those troubled by the afflictions.
A prophet once came to Paul and prophesied that if he went to Jerusalem he would be bound and put in prison. The prophet was faithful to give his word; it was up to Paul to hear from God how to deal with that warning. Paul, after hearing the prophecy, still decided to go to Jerusalem—willing to risk his life for the gospel (Acts 21). Some will hear and stay in a place of safety; others will hear and go to a place to serve. Some churches are positioned in cities that will need their spiritual strength and compassion. Perhaps the wisdom of Paul in Ephesians 5:15-18 speaks most to what we need, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
A PASTOR’S RESPONSE TO “AN URGENT WARNING”
It is the task of a true prophet to warn. We have recently heard such a clear warning of perilous days just ahead of us. The prophet is like a man who comes to warn a shepherd that ravenous wolves are approaching. It then becomes the shepherd’s task to appropriately discern the warning and to guide those in his care to a place of wisdom and security. I am not a prophet. I am a local pastor. I must ask myself what I am to do in light of hearing the warning from God. What should I say to those under my pastoral care? First, I want my people to clearly hear the word. What is it saying and what is it not saying. Some have heard of fires and looting and their hearts are filled with fear. I am to assure my people that God is always completely in control. God is sovereign. Nothing takes place outside of his notice and counsel, and all things happen for his ultimate, highest glory. Even in the most troubling of times, our God knows exactly what he is doing.
Second, I want those I serve to know two things concerning God’s wrath. First, some leaders in the church have sadly fallen into the deception that there is no such thing as the wrath of God. Roman 1:18 says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.” Some act in ungodly ways, others are ungodly by their suppressing the truth of God’s wrath. Some leaders reduce, ignore and even ridicule anyone who reminds them of the certainty of God’s wrath. Romans 2:5 also tells us clearly that the wrath of God is toward those whose hearts are hard and impenitent. This leads to the second element of understanding God’s wrath. It is never, ever, ever poured out on the children of God. In I John 2:2 “He is the propitiation for our sins.” The word propitiation means “wrath quencher.” What marvelous grace, what redemption! God’s wrath at my rebellion and sin has been quenched on the Cross of Christ. Hard times come; rain falls even on the just but wrath does not.
Last, I am obligated to guide the flock given to me with loving-kindness and soberness. If a wolf or a storm is coming, I as a shepherd must know the conditions of my flock. Are any sitting on the fence? Warn them that this is no time for compromise or close affiliation with the world. Partying in the house of an Egyptian on the night of the Passover is definitely not a good idea. This is a time to stay close to the Chief Shepherd. This is also an opportunity for us to call out to those outside the gate. Jesus is the Door and has opened his heart. His cry it that all flee from wrath to come. More than shrinking behind a double-locked door or fleeing to a rural farm, this is a call from Jesus to move your life into the sheepfold. When a prophet comes with a message of warning, often people want the prophet to give them specific advice about what to do in response. At times, God gives the prophet a word, but more often it is up to the shepherd, and even more so, up to every man of God to take the word into account for his own family. Just as a pastor has stewardship of the church, a man of God is to give an account of his own family. When one comes to warn that wolves are coming, it is not always his responsibility to tell them what to do. We can hear from God. Joseph heard God say to store up food for the season to come (Genesis 41). Moses heard God say to receive gifts from the Egyptians for their journey (Exodus12). We as well can hear from God for our situation. Sheep do hear the Shepherd’s voice. Jesus—in this hour, in this storm—will not only guide his people and comfort his flock but will also give them boldness, confidence and a heart to serve those troubled by the afflictions.
A prophet once came to Paul and prophesied that if he went to Jerusalem he would be bound and put in prison. The prophet was faithful to give his word; it was up to Paul to hear from God how to deal with that warning. Paul, after hearing the prophecy, still decided to go to Jerusalem—willing to risk his life for the gospel (Acts 21). Some will hear and stay in a place of safety; others will hear and go to a place to serve. Some churches are positioned in cities that will need their spiritual strength and compassion. Perhaps the wisdom of Paul in Ephesians 5:15-18 speaks most to what we need, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
Monday, March 9, 2009
Praying for the Out Pouring of the Holy Spirit for He Tells Us Things To Come
JOHN 16:13 NKJ: However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.As we focus on God’s mercy and praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit we should realize exactly what we are praying for. The Holy Spirit is many things to us; a Helper, Comforter, Teacher, Guide and so much more. Throughout this month, I hope to explore the many roles the Holy Spirit plays in our lives. For this particular blog, I want to explore the Holy Spirit’s role as a “Teacher of things to come”.
I am sure that there is no need to remind you that we are living in troubled times. Our God is so merciful that He will not lead us into these troubled times without knowledge. Hosea 4:6 says “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…”, and our Father in heaven does not want us to be destroyed by the impending fear and anti-Christ spirit. That is why Jesus told His church that He would send us a Helper, He will give us the knowledge to get us through the times to come.
The Holy Spirit will reveal to God’s people everything that is in His heart to share with us. I am not sure if God will reveal everything, but I am sure that He will reveal some things. The Holy Spirit moves and communicates to us in various ways.
1. Visions/Dreams: Often times the Holy Spirit will give us visions of what is to come. The Bible says in Acts 2:17, "And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams". This is a promise from God; I surely believe that this is one major way that the Lord will reveal many things to His people in these last days. This is going to happen. it is inevitable, so we must prepare ourselves to receive this gift from the Holy Spirit. We should not fear, but rejoice for the Lord will pour out His Spirit as He has promised and we should be humbled and honored that He has chosen to give us a glimpse of His plan and will. Remember, we were all born for such a time as this.
2. A Word: The Bible is filled with prophecies and mentions of the end times. The Holy Spirit speaks to us through the living Bible. The Holy Spirit will bring to your remembrance a scripture that has to do with the coming times. He will also speak to your heart the things to come. It is important to read and meditate on God’s Word. Take the time to read and spend time with the Lord and the Holy Spirit will reveal many things to you. Once it is revealed, you should not stop there, you should pray that the Holy Spirit will give you a deeper understanding, and make sure to share what has been revealed to you to the Body of Christ.
3. The Church: I find comfort in the unity of the church. I am strengthened and reassured when I find that multiple pastors around the world are sharing the same message. When the Holy Spirit imparts knowledge on the leaders of our churches and they begin to share the same knowledge and heart of God, it reinforces what God is communicating to His people. Therefore, it is important to spend time with members of the body of Christ. If you are in a church that seems dry, I implore you to seek for a church that is saturated in the Spirit of the All Mighty God! Do not sleep! Watch! Lest ye fall into temptation! Jesus said this many times to His disciples and I think it is more than worth repeating.
As we pray for the out pour of the Holy Spirit, let us remember that He will communicate to us in various ways. Let us be vigilant and watch and make sure that our hearts, eyes and ears are receptive to the Will of God and the knowledge He will impart to us. And in all things, remember that we are VICTORIOUS!!!! So do not fear, but rejoice that the Lord is going to fulfill His promises to us and that we are worthy to receive an outpouring of the Holy Spirit!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
A Urgent Message From Dr. Wilkerson of Times Square Church
We wanted to share this urgent message that our pastor sent out via e-mail. The Lord has revealed these events to many of His people including myself and my mother. Remember that God warns His people before He brings judgment. Please pray for understanding from the Holy Spirit and mercy upon our nation. We need the Lord's strength and power to keep us focus on Him and not be fearful of the things to come.
"I am compelled by the Holy Spirit to send out an urgent message to all on our mailing list, and to friends and to bishops we have met all over the world.
AN EARTH-SHATTERING CALAMITY IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN.IT IS GOING TO BE SO FRIGHTENING, WE ARE ALL GOING TO TREMBLE—EVEN THE GODLIEST AMONG US.
For ten years I have been warning about a thousand fires coming to New York City. It will engulf the whole megaplex, including areas of New Jersey and Connecticut. Major cities all across America will experience riots and blazing fires—such as we saw in Watts, Los Angeles, years ago.
There will be riots and fires in cities worldwide. There will be looting—including Times Square, New York City. What we are experiencing now is not a recession, not even a depression. We are under God’s wrath. In Psalm 11 it is written,
“If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (v. 3).
God is judging the raging sins of America and the nations. He is destroying the secular foundations.
The prophet Jeremiah pleaded with wicked Israel, “God is fashioning a calamity against you and devising a plan against you. Oh, turn back each of you from your evil way, and reform your ways and deeds. But they will say, It’s hopeless! For we are going to follow our own plans, and each of us will act according to the stubbornness of his evil heart” (Jeremiah 18:11-12).
In Psalm 11:6, David warns, “Upon the wicked he will rain snares (coals of fire)…fire…burning wind…will be the portion of their cup.” Why? David answered, “Because the Lord is righteous” (v. 7). This is a righteous judgment—just as in the judgments of Sodom and in Noah’s generation.
WHAT SHALL THE RIGHTEOUS DO? WHAT ABOUT GOD’S PEOPLE?
First, I give you a practical word I received for my own direction. Lay in store a thirty-day supply of food, toiletries and other essentials. In major cities, grocery stores are emptied in an hour at the sign of an impending disaster.
As for our spiritual reaction, we have but two options. This is outlined in Psalm 11. We “flee like a bird to a mountain.” Or, as David says, “He fixed his eyes on the Lord on his throne in heaven—his eyes beholding, his eyelids testing the sons of men” (v. 4). “In the Lord I take refuge” (v. 1).
I will say to my soul: No need to run…no need to hide. This is God’s righteous work. I will behold our Lord on his throne, with his eye of tender, loving kindness watching over every step I take—trusting that he will deliver his people even through floods, fires, calamities, tests, trials of all kinds.
Note: I do not know when these things will come to pass, but I know it is not far off. I have unburdened my soul to you. Do with the message as you choose."
God bless and keep you.
In Christ,
DAVID WILKERSONDW:bbm 3-05-09
"I am compelled by the Holy Spirit to send out an urgent message to all on our mailing list, and to friends and to bishops we have met all over the world.
AN EARTH-SHATTERING CALAMITY IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN.IT IS GOING TO BE SO FRIGHTENING, WE ARE ALL GOING TO TREMBLE—EVEN THE GODLIEST AMONG US.
For ten years I have been warning about a thousand fires coming to New York City. It will engulf the whole megaplex, including areas of New Jersey and Connecticut. Major cities all across America will experience riots and blazing fires—such as we saw in Watts, Los Angeles, years ago.
There will be riots and fires in cities worldwide. There will be looting—including Times Square, New York City. What we are experiencing now is not a recession, not even a depression. We are under God’s wrath. In Psalm 11 it is written,
“If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (v. 3).
God is judging the raging sins of America and the nations. He is destroying the secular foundations.
The prophet Jeremiah pleaded with wicked Israel, “God is fashioning a calamity against you and devising a plan against you. Oh, turn back each of you from your evil way, and reform your ways and deeds. But they will say, It’s hopeless! For we are going to follow our own plans, and each of us will act according to the stubbornness of his evil heart” (Jeremiah 18:11-12).
In Psalm 11:6, David warns, “Upon the wicked he will rain snares (coals of fire)…fire…burning wind…will be the portion of their cup.” Why? David answered, “Because the Lord is righteous” (v. 7). This is a righteous judgment—just as in the judgments of Sodom and in Noah’s generation.
WHAT SHALL THE RIGHTEOUS DO? WHAT ABOUT GOD’S PEOPLE?
First, I give you a practical word I received for my own direction. Lay in store a thirty-day supply of food, toiletries and other essentials. In major cities, grocery stores are emptied in an hour at the sign of an impending disaster.
As for our spiritual reaction, we have but two options. This is outlined in Psalm 11. We “flee like a bird to a mountain.” Or, as David says, “He fixed his eyes on the Lord on his throne in heaven—his eyes beholding, his eyelids testing the sons of men” (v. 4). “In the Lord I take refuge” (v. 1).
I will say to my soul: No need to run…no need to hide. This is God’s righteous work. I will behold our Lord on his throne, with his eye of tender, loving kindness watching over every step I take—trusting that he will deliver his people even through floods, fires, calamities, tests, trials of all kinds.
Note: I do not know when these things will come to pass, but I know it is not far off. I have unburdened my soul to you. Do with the message as you choose."
God bless and keep you.
In Christ,
DAVID WILKERSONDW:bbm 3-05-09
Sunday, March 1, 2009
The Revelations of Matthew 14: 22-33: Keeping your eyes on Christ
This is the third message that the Holy Spirit has led me to discover in this passage. Leading up to this post, I learned this week that I am not skilled to understand God’s will or plan. My flesh will not allow me to go beyond what my brain can comprehend. The Lord revealed this to me through daily words from my pastor and friends. I know that I have written about this before but the Lord has to continue to remind me that I do not dictate what He is going to do in my life.
Towards the end of this message Peter is now walking on water and heading towards Jesus. In verse 30, as he is walking towards his Savior, he started to pay attention to the wind that was gushing around him. “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink -”(KJV). Because of all the distractions and horrible conditions, Peter becomes afraid and started to sink. He cries out for the Lord to save him and Jesus immediately picks him back up. Jesus than says to Peter in verse 31 “Oh you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Speaking to my friends about our current situations and receiving a word from them really encouraged me. One of my friends received a word from the Lord that her family will receive salvation. Even though things look grim and are getting worse, she is still holding on to the promise. She is not going to question God why it has not happened yet or when. She is going to keep her eyes on Christ and continue to trust in His plan.
When she was talking to me, the Holy Spirit reminded me about Noah. Noah obeyed the word of God and built an ark to house his family and a pair of every land animal to protect them from the flood. He built this ark for over 100 years by faith. It had never rained on the earth before, people around him were calling him crazy but Noah trusted in God’s plan. He stayed focused and completed his task. This is the type of faith, I am praying for. It's that spiritual faith that is passed human understanding. It is the faith that doesn’t care what is going on around you. If God is faithful and continue to give us mercy and grace than why can’t we praise him through our problems?
I pray that we all keep our eyes on Jesus and continue to trust Him through the storm.
Towards the end of this message Peter is now walking on water and heading towards Jesus. In verse 30, as he is walking towards his Savior, he started to pay attention to the wind that was gushing around him. “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink -”(KJV). Because of all the distractions and horrible conditions, Peter becomes afraid and started to sink. He cries out for the Lord to save him and Jesus immediately picks him back up. Jesus than says to Peter in verse 31 “Oh you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
Speaking to my friends about our current situations and receiving a word from them really encouraged me. One of my friends received a word from the Lord that her family will receive salvation. Even though things look grim and are getting worse, she is still holding on to the promise. She is not going to question God why it has not happened yet or when. She is going to keep her eyes on Christ and continue to trust in His plan.
When she was talking to me, the Holy Spirit reminded me about Noah. Noah obeyed the word of God and built an ark to house his family and a pair of every land animal to protect them from the flood. He built this ark for over 100 years by faith. It had never rained on the earth before, people around him were calling him crazy but Noah trusted in God’s plan. He stayed focused and completed his task. This is the type of faith, I am praying for. It's that spiritual faith that is passed human understanding. It is the faith that doesn’t care what is going on around you. If God is faithful and continue to give us mercy and grace than why can’t we praise him through our problems?
I pray that we all keep our eyes on Jesus and continue to trust Him through the storm.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
God Honors Agreements Made in His Name
Almost 2 years ago my sister and I joined a discipleship class at your old church in Maryland. One of the attendees, Susana made a claim that my sister, her and myself were going to get married. We were the single women in the group and all wanted husbands. We said a prayer and made an agreement that we would attend each others weddings.
Last month I received an e-mail from Susana that she was getting married!!! I was so happy for her. God is good and He keeps all His promises. We had been praying for her and God answered our prayers. She mailed us an invite to her wedding but we were not sure if we could attend. The wedding us a week away when we received the invitation and we were not financially prepared to make a trip.
A couple of days before the wedding the Holy Spirit convicted me and ask me why we were not going to the wedding. I said "Lord, you know the situation we are going through right now. We can not afford to make a trip at this time." Than the Lord brought to my remembrance that we had made an agreement that we would attend each other's weddings. I spoke to my sister about it and we both agreed that we had to attend the wedding. The Lord would want us to honor our promise, just like he did with Susana's marriage.
So, we went to the wedding, knowing that the Lord would provide. It was such a blessing to see Susana in her beautiful wedding gown. She was stunning!! We started to cry as she was escorted by her mother down the isle. She and her husband make a beautiful couple.
Last month I received an e-mail from Susana that she was getting married!!! I was so happy for her. God is good and He keeps all His promises. We had been praying for her and God answered our prayers. She mailed us an invite to her wedding but we were not sure if we could attend. The wedding us a week away when we received the invitation and we were not financially prepared to make a trip.
A couple of days before the wedding the Holy Spirit convicted me and ask me why we were not going to the wedding. I said "Lord, you know the situation we are going through right now. We can not afford to make a trip at this time." Than the Lord brought to my remembrance that we had made an agreement that we would attend each other's weddings. I spoke to my sister about it and we both agreed that we had to attend the wedding. The Lord would want us to honor our promise, just like he did with Susana's marriage.
So, we went to the wedding, knowing that the Lord would provide. It was such a blessing to see Susana in her beautiful wedding gown. She was stunning!! We started to cry as she was escorted by her mother down the isle. She and her husband make a beautiful couple.
God is so good and he always gives you the best of the best.
It was also a blessing for us to see God being glorified throughout the ceremony. Susana was so happy to see us and she started to rub our arms so that we can get some of the blessing. It was a lot of fun and we had a great time. What I learned is that God loves when we claim blessings, promises, deliverance and circumstances in His name. He also enjoys it when we do it with members of the Body because we are in agreement and one accord. Jesus said "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."–Matt. 18:20
Praise the Lord!
It was also a blessing for us to see God being glorified throughout the ceremony. Susana was so happy to see us and she started to rub our arms so that we can get some of the blessing. It was a lot of fun and we had a great time. What I learned is that God loves when we claim blessings, promises, deliverance and circumstances in His name. He also enjoys it when we do it with members of the Body because we are in agreement and one accord. Jesus said "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."–Matt. 18:20
Praise the Lord!Valentine's Day: Unselfish Love
We had the honor to work side by side with members of the Young Adult Ministry at our home church, Times Square Church, and other volunteers to spread love to senior citizens on Valentine's Day. Love Carolers was started by Ye-Jee and Bianca from YAM. The Lord moved their hearts to visit people that were in need and bring them hope, love and compassion. We meet at a Christian community center and made over 700 Valentine's Day cards! It was the Holy Spirit working it out and helping over 12 of us to accomplish this amazing task.
We loved every minute of it, sharing Bible verses that moved us, stories about the 3 day fast we had just completed, eating pizza, cracking jokes and talking about the goodness of God. It was great to see people our age giving up there Saturday, let alone Valentine's Day, to brighten up some one's day.
Once we completed the cards we took pictures and headed out to the senior citizens center called Isabella.
We spilt up in two groups and headed to different floors to hand out the cards and talk to some of the patients. They were so happy to see us and really liked the V-day cards. Some of us ended up praying for a woman and her daugther that I had been in a coma for 9 years. You could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in the room. After we prayed the mother said that we were angels and that her daughter squeezed her hand while we were praying.
I am so happy we did it and I hope that we will continue to do more. This really showed me how a simple act of kindness can make a difference in some one's life and bring God glory.
We loved every minute of it, sharing Bible verses that moved us, stories about the 3 day fast we had just completed, eating pizza, cracking jokes and talking about the goodness of God. It was great to see people our age giving up there Saturday, let alone Valentine's Day, to brighten up some one's day.
Once we completed the cards we took pictures and headed out to the senior citizens center called Isabella.
We spilt up in two groups and headed to different floors to hand out the cards and talk to some of the patients. They were so happy to see us and really liked the V-day cards. Some of us ended up praying for a woman and her daugther that I had been in a coma for 9 years. You could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in the room. After we prayed the mother said that we were angels and that her daughter squeezed her hand while we were praying.
I am so happy we did it and I hope that we will continue to do more. This really showed me how a simple act of kindness can make a difference in some one's life and bring God glory.
Monday, February 9, 2009
No Worries!
In this time of economic crisis and rampant fear, God has given us many promises in His Word. God promises to take care of us through all things. So there is no need to worry or fear what is going on around you. You have a Mighty God! Your strength, your guide, your joy! He will always be there for you. There have been several suicides due to the economic downturn and many people who have placed their faith in money and belongings (mammon) and not God, find themselves lost, because what they once believed in, is now gone. You know something that they don't. You know the saving grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. Please pray for people you know and don't know that may be lost in this time of turmoil. Share with them these promises, and tell them the good news of Jesus Christ! Remember, there is no need to worry, He is mighty to save!Philippians 4: 6-7
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
2 Corinthians 4: 8-9
8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed
Matthew 6:25 - 34
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]? 28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Lord, I pray that You will bind the spirit of worrying in Your people. Let us remember that You are our portion, our ever present help! You are everything to us. You are our God and we are Your people. You provide all our needs and for that we are grateful to You and give you all the praise and all the glory! Lord we ask that You please use us to share Your grace with others. Let us remember to keep Your Words close to our hearts and share it with others in due season. Amen.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Revelations of Matthew 14:22-33: Becoming a Water Walker
Continuing with the revelations of Matt. 14:22-33, which I started with last month, I wanted to look at the passage when Peter walked on water. Verse 29 reads, And he (Jesus) said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. Right here Peter showed his faith, in his master, by doing the impossible, walking on water. He leaned not unto his own understanding but trusted in Jesus that he could do this incredible miracle. 
When my sister and I moved out here to New York, people could not understand why we would do such a thing without having a job or security. Family members were concerned and praying for us. Some friends had faith in us and were saying, “You guys are going to make it.” Some were like “Ok….so do you have money saved up?” Others were like “Why are you moving now? New York is so expensive and there is a recession going on?” But my sister and I knew that God had called for us to move even tough we did not know why.
One of my close friend’s father said, “Wow, you guys are operating by faith. Let me be the first one to get your book!” Another friend of mine said that my sister and I are water walkers. When she said that, it amazed me. I thought to myself, “We are really walking on water.” We were not doing the natural thing like making sure we had something up here before we left. We were operating in the supernatural and knowing that God had made provisions for us. We have been living here for 7 months without a stable job and God has been providing for us every step of the way. We have experience a revelation from the Holy Spirit of what God is doing in our lives that it is unbelievable! We have been blessed to find a church home that is nurturing our faith and meeting people that God has placed in our lives to bless and to be blessed by. This whole move was to prepare us for the plan that He has for our lives.
Many of us do not that have the foresight to see what God is going to do in our lives. We only look at what is happening around us. That is fine but then you just get use to your situation and surroundings. There was a storm going on when Jesus was on the water. The boat was tossing and turning and all hope was lost. People on the boat might have been screaming, “We are going to die and there is no one to save us.” But Peter, who Jesus had given the foresight to trust in Him and obey His word, came down out the boat and walked towards Him. Could you have done that? Could you have gotten off a boat, even though, you thought that you were going to die and walk on the very thing that could take you down?
You see Peter was operating in the supernatural, while the others on the boat were doing what was natural to them, being afraid and operating in fear. 2Timothy 1:7 it reads, for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) So when God tells you to step out by faith and walk on water (the impossible) towards him, know that there is power, love and a sound mind operating. Do not listen to the noise (the storm) or the confusion (the doubters) around you. Just start walking towards the Master and believe Him for a miracle. That is what true stormriders do!!!!
Let’s pray. Lord I pray that you will make us all water walkers. I pray that we continue to trust in you and not our own understanding. That we operate in supernatural faith and that you will give us the foresight of the plan you have for us, through the Holy Spirit. Lord I pray that we will be obedient to your will and trust that you will always deliver us from the storm. Heavenly Father please block out the noise and distractions that would cause us to operate in fear instead of operating in love, power and a sound mind. Remove confusion and give us understanding of what you are doing in our lives. We ask you for all of these things, in Jesus’ name Amen.
When my sister and I moved out here to New York, people could not understand why we would do such a thing without having a job or security. Family members were concerned and praying for us. Some friends had faith in us and were saying, “You guys are going to make it.” Some were like “Ok….so do you have money saved up?” Others were like “Why are you moving now? New York is so expensive and there is a recession going on?” But my sister and I knew that God had called for us to move even tough we did not know why.
One of my close friend’s father said, “Wow, you guys are operating by faith. Let me be the first one to get your book!” Another friend of mine said that my sister and I are water walkers. When she said that, it amazed me. I thought to myself, “We are really walking on water.” We were not doing the natural thing like making sure we had something up here before we left. We were operating in the supernatural and knowing that God had made provisions for us. We have been living here for 7 months without a stable job and God has been providing for us every step of the way. We have experience a revelation from the Holy Spirit of what God is doing in our lives that it is unbelievable! We have been blessed to find a church home that is nurturing our faith and meeting people that God has placed in our lives to bless and to be blessed by. This whole move was to prepare us for the plan that He has for our lives.
Many of us do not that have the foresight to see what God is going to do in our lives. We only look at what is happening around us. That is fine but then you just get use to your situation and surroundings. There was a storm going on when Jesus was on the water. The boat was tossing and turning and all hope was lost. People on the boat might have been screaming, “We are going to die and there is no one to save us.” But Peter, who Jesus had given the foresight to trust in Him and obey His word, came down out the boat and walked towards Him. Could you have done that? Could you have gotten off a boat, even though, you thought that you were going to die and walk on the very thing that could take you down?
You see Peter was operating in the supernatural, while the others on the boat were doing what was natural to them, being afraid and operating in fear. 2Timothy 1:7 it reads, for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) So when God tells you to step out by faith and walk on water (the impossible) towards him, know that there is power, love and a sound mind operating. Do not listen to the noise (the storm) or the confusion (the doubters) around you. Just start walking towards the Master and believe Him for a miracle. That is what true stormriders do!!!!
Let’s pray. Lord I pray that you will make us all water walkers. I pray that we continue to trust in you and not our own understanding. That we operate in supernatural faith and that you will give us the foresight of the plan you have for us, through the Holy Spirit. Lord I pray that we will be obedient to your will and trust that you will always deliver us from the storm. Heavenly Father please block out the noise and distractions that would cause us to operate in fear instead of operating in love, power and a sound mind. Remove confusion and give us understanding of what you are doing in our lives. We ask you for all of these things, in Jesus’ name Amen.
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