Have you ever wondered why Jesus said, when told about a boy with a demon, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and bear with you?" Luke 9:41 I used to think that He was rebuking His disciples for not being able to cast the unclean spirit out. But He was addressing a whole generation of the nation of Israel, not just a few guys. What do you think was bothering Him? I got an insight on that today from our Old Testament passage in the OYB.
When I was pondering what to write today, the Holy Spirit said "Start with Jesus and go back." So I did. This is a good principle - I highly recommend it!
I'm quite certain that Jesus was disturbed because this was God's chosen people and they had become completely victimized by Satan. If they had obeyed God's directions back when they were given the Promised Land, the ones we read today and have been reading, they would not have been in this predicament. They were as bad off as the rest of the world, at least in the demonic oppression arena, when they should have been free from the evil one's torment. But they did exactly what God had told them not to do: imitate the nations around them, especially when it came to spiritual practices.
“When you come into the land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the LORD, and because of these abominations the LORD your God drives them out from before you. You shall be blameless before the LORD your God. For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the LORD your God has not appointed such for you." Deuteronomy 18: 9-14
When I was in college (long, long ago "in a faraway land"), I got caught up in the occult. I promise you, when you do this stuff, or even dabble in it, you open up doors to demonic influence. My salvation included a lot of necessary deliverance from evil spirits. Some people go way too far in condemning every little thing, and they become as tormenting as the demons they're afraid of! I'm not talking about witch-hunting or "finding a demon under every rock". I'm serious, though, about not grieving the Spirit and not giving place to the abominations that God clearly hates.
Unfortunately, our culture is full of evil practices, idol worship, and occult fascination and involvement. "Pagan" is big these days. I run into it a lot in the artistic circles I associate in (this is my mission field). The Lord reminds me often not to let it influence me. We are so surrounded by it that I think we (the Church in general) are becoming callous to it. Be open to the correction of the Holy Spirit, and also of those who watch over you spiritually, such as your pastor, when they warn you of these things. I'm not one of these, I am just a messenger (but if you hear His voice through me, listen). As such, I'll name a couple of things as examples of what I feel are infiltrating influences that I know for a fact that some Christians are allowing in: vampire stuff and Harry Potter. Sorry to meddle, but these images and ideas are from the devil; they should not be fun to a believer because they grieve the Holy Spirit. This stuff is contamination; I think at best it is lowering your spiritual immune system, but probably much worse. Please consider dealing with it!
When our spirit is no longer grieved by what grieves the Holy Spirit (or we continue to ignore the grief) we are in great spiritual danger. This troubles me because we are to be overcomers, and this means "conquerors". Should we be conquered by the evil that Jesus died and rose again to conquer? He delivered us from evil; we even pray "deliver us from evil". Why do we play with it then? We call it "entertainment"! Wouldn't Jesus call it "faithless and perverse?" This hurts, I know, but it needs to be said. Believe me, I've heard it from Him more than once myself.
It is prophetic types, like me, who are most attracted (when not yielding to the Holy Spirit) to darkness, evil practices and occult spiritual power. Even though they are called to be especially tuned-in to God's communications and purposes and to help train others this way, it is this type of person that is most likely to be influenced by satanic and occult things. [This is why God gave instructions as to how to know a prophetic word was from Him or not. Deut. 18: 21-22, and many others] This may seem strange and unbelievable to many, but if you are this type of person, or you are near someone who is, you will easily be able to observe what I am talking about. Sadly, I have known people who are amazingly gifted prophetically who have gotten far too interested in what the devil is doing, so much so that they ended up following him instead of Christ Jesus. Don't you be one of these! And if you are a parent, and you have a child who is generally drawn to these things, pay attention, because you probably have a prophetically motivated/gifted child, and you will need to understand these things and learn how to raise them up in the Lord according to their gifts.
I praise God because Jesus conquered! He completely trampled down the devil. Jesus is Lord!! It is up to each of us individually to allow Jesus to be Lord in our own life. When He is, He will increase His kingdom in us, and through us where He gives us authority. These are dark and perilous times, and deceptions are rampant. Since we are the Children of Light, let us all live in the Light and shine His Light into the world.
Showing posts with label culture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label culture. Show all posts
Friday, April 1, 2011
Monday, August 9, 2010
August 9, 2010 God's Clear Guidelines For Social Networking
Today the Lord reminded me of some things I'd learned, and clarified them for me. I thought they might be relevant to you as they are to me. They have to do with our interactions with people in the world, and with fellow Christians.
First, it is most important that we do what we say. The issue of living what we preach came up first; often that's going to take crying out to God for help in order to do so. Without that kind of integrity, we lose our good witness and end up ashamed. God comes through with aid when we're committed to actually doing the Word, not just reading it and talking about it.
The issues of "intermarrying with pagans" and "sexual immorality" got a lot of attention: these are obviously really important to the Lord. With the Old and New Testament passages juxtaposed like this, I got a clearer understanding of what the Lord is trying to say, at least to me right now. I think as Christians, we mostly know we're not to marry outside of Christ, or have sex outside of marriage. But I think we can apply this to ourselves in a deeper understanding of intimacy and partnership. We shouldn't be birthing anything of mixed spiritual seed (children of the devil birthing something together with children of God; birthing something that's partly of the devil and partly of God). We shouldn't even take the risk of that kind of illegitimate relationship -- it creates all sorts of trouble.
On the other hand, the Apostle Paul made it clear that the Lord wasn't telling us to go around judging the world for its idolatrous and sexually immoral behavior, or for all the rest of the things he listed (and there is so much more)! God's got it covered. He said he wasn't even telling us to avoid contact with the people in the world, "since then you would need to go out of the world." How could we be a witness in the world if we're not allowed to hang around with people in the world?
If you'll think about it for a minute, Jesus came down out of a holy heaven and entered into a very sinful world, in human form, to hang out with us sinful people. It wasn't because He loved the sin! Obviously He doesn't! He came because He loves people, and He wanted to share God's good news with them. He wanted to give them a way out of the sin, and a way to escape the corruption in the world and the judgement of the world that is to come. He is the Way, and He made it possible for us to see that.
Now it's up to us to do the same. He never engaged in the sinful behavior, however. He was always Himself, yet He made Himself accessible. He was engaging without compromise. Jesus is the best example of how to do godly social networking. Not only that, He's given us His Spirit to help us do it right.
Paul brought up a major issue about how to deal with people who call themselves Christians and don't live like it (and it seems to me that he is talking about habitual lifestyle, not just mistakes, since he called them "evil people"!). As I said before, we should not be one of those. But here we see that we shouldn't even hang around with one of those! Does this seem contradictory? Hang out with the sinners in the world, but don't hang out with the sinners in the Church.
Well, think about it. First, there's the possibility that it might be an imposter (poser, infiltrator), possibly a wolf. Or it could be a person under the influence of a Jezebel spirit. Any of these types are stalking around looking to lead people astray and devour them. Someone doing immoral things within the body of Christ ends up leading others to do the same, usually the lambs. It despoils the testimony of the Church, and it grieves the Spirit of God. The Church is about oneness with God and each other. God will not be one with evil! There may be other reasons besides these. Whatever the reasons for God saying it's a big deal, Paul makes it clear that it's dangerous and that we are to take action. Yes, we are to judge it. We are to disengage from fellowship with them, and we are not to associate. [If you have read further in the letters of Paul, you will see that this choice is to be redemptive always].
As you can see, the things we read in Scripture are very relevant and applicable to our daily lives. I received some clear instruction today, and some things on which to seek God further. I hope you did too.
Questions to ponder:
How committed are you to obeying what the Word of God teaches?
What do you do when you are up against a compromising situation?
Have you ever gotten too involved with an unbeliever? How did that turn out?
How much say does God have in your own social networking practices?
How does God's Word affect how you relate to people in the world? people in the church? Is He calling for any change in these areas?
Have you ever had to give up a Christian friend because they were living a sinful lifestyle? What would tell someone facing that type of choice?
First, it is most important that we do what we say. The issue of living what we preach came up first; often that's going to take crying out to God for help in order to do so. Without that kind of integrity, we lose our good witness and end up ashamed. God comes through with aid when we're committed to actually doing the Word, not just reading it and talking about it.
The issues of "intermarrying with pagans" and "sexual immorality" got a lot of attention: these are obviously really important to the Lord. With the Old and New Testament passages juxtaposed like this, I got a clearer understanding of what the Lord is trying to say, at least to me right now. I think as Christians, we mostly know we're not to marry outside of Christ, or have sex outside of marriage. But I think we can apply this to ourselves in a deeper understanding of intimacy and partnership. We shouldn't be birthing anything of mixed spiritual seed (children of the devil birthing something together with children of God; birthing something that's partly of the devil and partly of God). We shouldn't even take the risk of that kind of illegitimate relationship -- it creates all sorts of trouble.
On the other hand, the Apostle Paul made it clear that the Lord wasn't telling us to go around judging the world for its idolatrous and sexually immoral behavior, or for all the rest of the things he listed (and there is so much more)! God's got it covered. He said he wasn't even telling us to avoid contact with the people in the world, "since then you would need to go out of the world." How could we be a witness in the world if we're not allowed to hang around with people in the world?
If you'll think about it for a minute, Jesus came down out of a holy heaven and entered into a very sinful world, in human form, to hang out with us sinful people. It wasn't because He loved the sin! Obviously He doesn't! He came because He loves people, and He wanted to share God's good news with them. He wanted to give them a way out of the sin, and a way to escape the corruption in the world and the judgement of the world that is to come. He is the Way, and He made it possible for us to see that.
Now it's up to us to do the same. He never engaged in the sinful behavior, however. He was always Himself, yet He made Himself accessible. He was engaging without compromise. Jesus is the best example of how to do godly social networking. Not only that, He's given us His Spirit to help us do it right.
Paul brought up a major issue about how to deal with people who call themselves Christians and don't live like it (and it seems to me that he is talking about habitual lifestyle, not just mistakes, since he called them "evil people"!). As I said before, we should not be one of those. But here we see that we shouldn't even hang around with one of those! Does this seem contradictory? Hang out with the sinners in the world, but don't hang out with the sinners in the Church.
Well, think about it. First, there's the possibility that it might be an imposter (poser, infiltrator), possibly a wolf. Or it could be a person under the influence of a Jezebel spirit. Any of these types are stalking around looking to lead people astray and devour them. Someone doing immoral things within the body of Christ ends up leading others to do the same, usually the lambs. It despoils the testimony of the Church, and it grieves the Spirit of God. The Church is about oneness with God and each other. God will not be one with evil! There may be other reasons besides these. Whatever the reasons for God saying it's a big deal, Paul makes it clear that it's dangerous and that we are to take action. Yes, we are to judge it. We are to disengage from fellowship with them, and we are not to associate. [If you have read further in the letters of Paul, you will see that this choice is to be redemptive always].
As you can see, the things we read in Scripture are very relevant and applicable to our daily lives. I received some clear instruction today, and some things on which to seek God further. I hope you did too.
Questions to ponder:
How committed are you to obeying what the Word of God teaches?
What do you do when you are up against a compromising situation?
Have you ever gotten too involved with an unbeliever? How did that turn out?
How much say does God have in your own social networking practices?
How does God's Word affect how you relate to people in the world? people in the church? Is He calling for any change in these areas?
Have you ever had to give up a Christian friend because they were living a sinful lifestyle? What would tell someone facing that type of choice?
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
June 29, 2010 The Mighty, Prevailing Word of God
Sometimes it feels like we're in the middle of the riot in Ephesus, with everybody chanting "Great is Diana of the Ephesians!" When large numbers of people get together, all worshipping the same god, a lot of shouting happens if you say anything about Jesus Christ being Lord. Confusion and mindlessness are a symption of mass deception. It's hard to get it to listen.
In order to save our nation, we need revival-- meaning: we need a majority of people who are free from mind-control and who believe and follow the truth of the gospel. We need to pray for the Spirit of Truth to break through and open people's minds that have been captivated by lies, so that they can receive the truth. This prayer has already had great effect. However, just because we pray doesn't mean there isn't more to do. Everyone who is free has work to do to get others set free. The word of God still needs to be shared: taught, preached, written about, discussed, illustrated, etc. Now is not the time to be lazy or intimidated. We need to work harder than the devil is!
There are two strategies I see that would be useful in dealing with the problem of mass deception as we get the word of God out: 1) publicly demonstrate the power of God and His word in a way that is undeniable. 2) relate to individuals in a way that doesn't trigger the programmed response (in other words, have wisdom in how you approach people about the gospel, and other subjects--included is a discussion on what to do if you if you end up triggering people).
If you'll think about it, you'll see that Jesus, in His earthly ministry, did both these things. He was dealing with a nation of people who were captivated in a religious "stronghold." Even some of the Pharisees, who were controlled by it but were also using it to control the masses, were won by the prevailing Word of God. Jesus demonstrated God's power by healing the sick, raising the dead and casting out demons, as well as other miracles. Jesus also spoke in parables to the people, getting the truth into them, in part, by by-passing their mental triggers. He didn't talk to the people in the same religious way that the Pharisees did, and they listened. I think that Jesus may have deliberately triggered the Pharisees to show what spirit they were really of!
These strategies are going to take a lot of prayer, submission to God, and obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We know, without a doubt, that it is God's will to get people set free. Why else would Paul the Apostle have been casting demons out in the name of Christ? (possession by a prevailing mindset of lies is just as bad as demon possession, isn't it?) This was true demonstration of the power of God, and it couldn't be duplicated by those who were not obedient to Christ. (It wasn't the only way Paul showed God's power, however; he did many other miracles.)
When the power of God is demonstrated along with the preaching of the word, the fear of the Lord rises up in people. The result is that 1) people come to Christ (by their own choice), 2) people confess their sins, and 3) people lay down their idols and their idolotrous practices because of the conviction of the Holy Spirit. (you can see this is verses 17-19)
I am fascinated by this verse: "So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed." Acts 19:20 We need not be intimidated by the seeming power of a crowd of deceived people. When the word of God is spoken, it gets planted in people. I think when people see God's word in action, it sort of pokes a hole in them, and the seed of the word goes down deeper-- has a chance to take root. God's word grows in people, then bears fruit. This takes time. (Some of the hard times we've been going through are perhaps digging the "rocks" out of people-- softening the hardness of people's hearts and making them better "soil"). All the Christian mass media in the world won't suddenly change society by suddenly changing the crowds' mind. But the word of God spread en mass will touch many individuals. And God's word always prevails.
There is nothing mightier than the word of God. In the Psalm today, we are reminded how the word of God controls nature. He created nature in the first place-- with His word. He created mankind. He upholds the universe with His word. If He can do this, then He could control a crowd, easily, with His word. But I don't see that He has ever done this, even with His own people. He doesn't violate His own policies, and the individual's free will is one of the things He has set up. It is a key to His kingdom.
Satan, however, has no qualms about violating God's laws. Controlling a group is something he tries to do as much as possible. (In the incident in Ephesus, Demetrius was used by Satan to stir up a crowd against the gospel, using a group deception that was already in place and a strong economic incentive: and the devil always uses "fear, shame and the need to belong".) Even so, God sets people free individually. Otherwise, we would just be pawns in a duel between God and Satan, and we are not. God is not controlled by Satan's tactics. We don't have to be either.
God's people, when we become full of His Word and Spirit, will eventually act as one-- not because God is controlling us against our will, but because each of our wills are freely submitted to the Head, who is Christ. We will choose to do His will because we want to. It is pure worship. If we are submitted to the Head, we will be free of any other type of control. We will not fear or worship anything else. We will move as one-- His Body.
In the words of John, "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." 1John 5:21 In order to free others, we must be free ourselves. Watch for how the enemy promotes controlling mindsets through the media. He does it by saturation, seduction and peer pressure (and other forms of intimidation). Don't become a cult-victim of the prevailing culture. Let God's culture and His powerful word prevail in your life. The choice is yours.
*******
The following is specific instructions about dealing with triggered behavior. I just wanted to let you know in advance, so you don't get mad at me for taking up so much of your time. It might be very useful for you, either now or in the future, especially if you are in ministry. It just seems that, since this is a very common problem, and the Scripture readings brought it up, it would be wrong of me to not share what I know, at least briefly (and this is very brief, really).
Satan believes that if he can get people, either in a mass or individually, so programmed that they will not be able to think or listen (or even get angry and attack) if they are triggered, that we will stop preaching the gospel to them. Since this is a widespread phenomenon, we either have to avoid the triggers (and they are often common and avoidable), or learn to deal with people when they are triggered, either by ourselves or others. What we must not do is become afraid of people and stop speaking the truth in love. I will share with you a little of what I have learned so far; some of it was revealed to me as I read the Scriptures today.
Sometimes God will lead us to do or say something that will trigger the programmed response, either in a crowd or in an individual. This is to show us what is controlling the crowd or person. It is possible to calm a crowd, as we saw by the speech the clerk gave in the theater. But all he did was cater to their belief system. It didn't set them free. I'm not saying we should do this. Sometimes Paul was barely able to talk sense into a frenzied crowd (such as when they tried to worship him as Zeus). In my limited experience, it is possible to speak (whatever the Holy Spirit tells you to) into the volitile situation. This can change a hostile atmosphere by the work of the Spirit, who speaks to individual hearts and allows His peace to overwhelm enemy activity. This is temporary, but it gives you the chance to share the word of God to the group of people. I believe angel ministers also help in this situation when we speak the word given us. You also can speak directly to an evil spirit who has tried to invade a meeting, and you can directly cast it out (if you've been given authority over the meeting). I can't share experience on what to do in situations like Paul was in, since I've never preached in venues like he did. Thankfully, if I ever have to, I know that God's grace is sufficient for all things.
In ministering to an individual who you see is being controlled by something, we have to have discernment and guidance of the Holy Spirit, moment by moment. I have had lots of experience with this in the counseling room, as well as everyday life, but there is no formula. Sometimes you can cast a demon out, but lots of times there is more to it, and you just have to calm the person down and go at the problem from a different angle. You may have to wait for another time. When I was counseling one time, a lady client was triggered into a tizzy because I wore the color pink! It seemed bad at the moment, but it led us to a place that needed healing. No, I didn't cast a demon out! Yes, I have cast demons out before. Just try casting a wound or a thought-process out though! Discipleship, and often deliverance, is a process.
If you trigger a controlled throught-process, evoking a programmed response (and then you're dealing with an unreasonable, and even dangerous, person at that moment), most likely your conversation is over for the time being. Make a note of what you learned. You will have to go around the "back door" and, in a different way, begin to share the word of God that will refute the lies that the person is believing. Once the person believes the truth, they will overthrow the demon themselves, if there is one. This is best and most permanent. (There isn't always an actual demon present, because the human psyche is capable of all sorts of strange defensive behaviors, which often look demonic to us, but aren't necessarily. The number of demons in the world is finite, and Satan won't use them if he doesn't have to. He has had thousands of years to study human psychology, and he knows more than you do. He is a master mind-twister. Good thing we have access to the infinite mind of Christ! God's wisdom and knowledge always trump the devil!) If there is a demonic guard everywhere you go in talking with a person, then you are going to have to get them delivered. Prayer over the situation is advised before you act. I'm sure Paul was praying over the girl with the spirit of divination, and he knew exactly what he was getting into. I have been led, in some instances, to immediately command a demon to leave, and it has left. But if you don't help the person close the door that let it in, it will be back, guaranteed. This is worse, and to be avoided. Jesus taught about that.
Christian deliverance is not exorcism! Never forget that the word of God is His will; it is powerful and it will prevail. If Christ lives in you, then His authority will speak through you when He gives you the word. You never have to exert human power; if fact, in dealing with demons, you are only giving them something to feed on when you do things in the flesh. It makes them stronger. The fruit of the Spirit is poisonous to them however, so make sure you're in the Vine and bearing lots of fruit! Doing something "in the name of Jesus" requires doing it in His nature. You can't use the name of Jesus as a magic potion.
When you are walking in the Spirit, then He will lead you only to places in which He will either work through you, or teach you with what you are experiencing.
In order to save our nation, we need revival-- meaning: we need a majority of people who are free from mind-control and who believe and follow the truth of the gospel. We need to pray for the Spirit of Truth to break through and open people's minds that have been captivated by lies, so that they can receive the truth. This prayer has already had great effect. However, just because we pray doesn't mean there isn't more to do. Everyone who is free has work to do to get others set free. The word of God still needs to be shared: taught, preached, written about, discussed, illustrated, etc. Now is not the time to be lazy or intimidated. We need to work harder than the devil is!
There are two strategies I see that would be useful in dealing with the problem of mass deception as we get the word of God out: 1) publicly demonstrate the power of God and His word in a way that is undeniable. 2) relate to individuals in a way that doesn't trigger the programmed response (in other words, have wisdom in how you approach people about the gospel, and other subjects--included is a discussion on what to do if you if you end up triggering people).
If you'll think about it, you'll see that Jesus, in His earthly ministry, did both these things. He was dealing with a nation of people who were captivated in a religious "stronghold." Even some of the Pharisees, who were controlled by it but were also using it to control the masses, were won by the prevailing Word of God. Jesus demonstrated God's power by healing the sick, raising the dead and casting out demons, as well as other miracles. Jesus also spoke in parables to the people, getting the truth into them, in part, by by-passing their mental triggers. He didn't talk to the people in the same religious way that the Pharisees did, and they listened. I think that Jesus may have deliberately triggered the Pharisees to show what spirit they were really of!
These strategies are going to take a lot of prayer, submission to God, and obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We know, without a doubt, that it is God's will to get people set free. Why else would Paul the Apostle have been casting demons out in the name of Christ? (possession by a prevailing mindset of lies is just as bad as demon possession, isn't it?) This was true demonstration of the power of God, and it couldn't be duplicated by those who were not obedient to Christ. (It wasn't the only way Paul showed God's power, however; he did many other miracles.)
When the power of God is demonstrated along with the preaching of the word, the fear of the Lord rises up in people. The result is that 1) people come to Christ (by their own choice), 2) people confess their sins, and 3) people lay down their idols and their idolotrous practices because of the conviction of the Holy Spirit. (you can see this is verses 17-19)
I am fascinated by this verse: "So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed." Acts 19:20 We need not be intimidated by the seeming power of a crowd of deceived people. When the word of God is spoken, it gets planted in people. I think when people see God's word in action, it sort of pokes a hole in them, and the seed of the word goes down deeper-- has a chance to take root. God's word grows in people, then bears fruit. This takes time. (Some of the hard times we've been going through are perhaps digging the "rocks" out of people-- softening the hardness of people's hearts and making them better "soil"). All the Christian mass media in the world won't suddenly change society by suddenly changing the crowds' mind. But the word of God spread en mass will touch many individuals. And God's word always prevails.
There is nothing mightier than the word of God. In the Psalm today, we are reminded how the word of God controls nature. He created nature in the first place-- with His word. He created mankind. He upholds the universe with His word. If He can do this, then He could control a crowd, easily, with His word. But I don't see that He has ever done this, even with His own people. He doesn't violate His own policies, and the individual's free will is one of the things He has set up. It is a key to His kingdom.
Satan, however, has no qualms about violating God's laws. Controlling a group is something he tries to do as much as possible. (In the incident in Ephesus, Demetrius was used by Satan to stir up a crowd against the gospel, using a group deception that was already in place and a strong economic incentive: and the devil always uses "fear, shame and the need to belong".) Even so, God sets people free individually. Otherwise, we would just be pawns in a duel between God and Satan, and we are not. God is not controlled by Satan's tactics. We don't have to be either.
God's people, when we become full of His Word and Spirit, will eventually act as one-- not because God is controlling us against our will, but because each of our wills are freely submitted to the Head, who is Christ. We will choose to do His will because we want to. It is pure worship. If we are submitted to the Head, we will be free of any other type of control. We will not fear or worship anything else. We will move as one-- His Body.
In the words of John, "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." 1John 5:21 In order to free others, we must be free ourselves. Watch for how the enemy promotes controlling mindsets through the media. He does it by saturation, seduction and peer pressure (and other forms of intimidation). Don't become a cult-victim of the prevailing culture. Let God's culture and His powerful word prevail in your life. The choice is yours.
*******
The following is specific instructions about dealing with triggered behavior. I just wanted to let you know in advance, so you don't get mad at me for taking up so much of your time. It might be very useful for you, either now or in the future, especially if you are in ministry. It just seems that, since this is a very common problem, and the Scripture readings brought it up, it would be wrong of me to not share what I know, at least briefly (and this is very brief, really).
Satan believes that if he can get people, either in a mass or individually, so programmed that they will not be able to think or listen (or even get angry and attack) if they are triggered, that we will stop preaching the gospel to them. Since this is a widespread phenomenon, we either have to avoid the triggers (and they are often common and avoidable), or learn to deal with people when they are triggered, either by ourselves or others. What we must not do is become afraid of people and stop speaking the truth in love. I will share with you a little of what I have learned so far; some of it was revealed to me as I read the Scriptures today.
Sometimes God will lead us to do or say something that will trigger the programmed response, either in a crowd or in an individual. This is to show us what is controlling the crowd or person. It is possible to calm a crowd, as we saw by the speech the clerk gave in the theater. But all he did was cater to their belief system. It didn't set them free. I'm not saying we should do this. Sometimes Paul was barely able to talk sense into a frenzied crowd (such as when they tried to worship him as Zeus). In my limited experience, it is possible to speak (whatever the Holy Spirit tells you to) into the volitile situation. This can change a hostile atmosphere by the work of the Spirit, who speaks to individual hearts and allows His peace to overwhelm enemy activity. This is temporary, but it gives you the chance to share the word of God to the group of people. I believe angel ministers also help in this situation when we speak the word given us. You also can speak directly to an evil spirit who has tried to invade a meeting, and you can directly cast it out (if you've been given authority over the meeting). I can't share experience on what to do in situations like Paul was in, since I've never preached in venues like he did. Thankfully, if I ever have to, I know that God's grace is sufficient for all things.
In ministering to an individual who you see is being controlled by something, we have to have discernment and guidance of the Holy Spirit, moment by moment. I have had lots of experience with this in the counseling room, as well as everyday life, but there is no formula. Sometimes you can cast a demon out, but lots of times there is more to it, and you just have to calm the person down and go at the problem from a different angle. You may have to wait for another time. When I was counseling one time, a lady client was triggered into a tizzy because I wore the color pink! It seemed bad at the moment, but it led us to a place that needed healing. No, I didn't cast a demon out! Yes, I have cast demons out before. Just try casting a wound or a thought-process out though! Discipleship, and often deliverance, is a process.
If you trigger a controlled throught-process, evoking a programmed response (and then you're dealing with an unreasonable, and even dangerous, person at that moment), most likely your conversation is over for the time being. Make a note of what you learned. You will have to go around the "back door" and, in a different way, begin to share the word of God that will refute the lies that the person is believing. Once the person believes the truth, they will overthrow the demon themselves, if there is one. This is best and most permanent. (There isn't always an actual demon present, because the human psyche is capable of all sorts of strange defensive behaviors, which often look demonic to us, but aren't necessarily. The number of demons in the world is finite, and Satan won't use them if he doesn't have to. He has had thousands of years to study human psychology, and he knows more than you do. He is a master mind-twister. Good thing we have access to the infinite mind of Christ! God's wisdom and knowledge always trump the devil!) If there is a demonic guard everywhere you go in talking with a person, then you are going to have to get them delivered. Prayer over the situation is advised before you act. I'm sure Paul was praying over the girl with the spirit of divination, and he knew exactly what he was getting into. I have been led, in some instances, to immediately command a demon to leave, and it has left. But if you don't help the person close the door that let it in, it will be back, guaranteed. This is worse, and to be avoided. Jesus taught about that.
Christian deliverance is not exorcism! Never forget that the word of God is His will; it is powerful and it will prevail. If Christ lives in you, then His authority will speak through you when He gives you the word. You never have to exert human power; if fact, in dealing with demons, you are only giving them something to feed on when you do things in the flesh. It makes them stronger. The fruit of the Spirit is poisonous to them however, so make sure you're in the Vine and bearing lots of fruit! Doing something "in the name of Jesus" requires doing it in His nature. You can't use the name of Jesus as a magic potion.
When you are walking in the Spirit, then He will lead you only to places in which He will either work through you, or teach you with what you are experiencing.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
June 16, 2010 Politics, Prophets and Provision
It's troubling to me to read about the dreadful split between Judah and Israel, and of the horrendous works of the evil kings. It makes me sad to realize it was all due to Solomon's wandering heart and idolatry later in his life. With all his wisdom, he should have known better. It just goes to show that "you can fall from any level," as Rick Joyner said in The Final Quest. How serious we need to be in maintaining the fear of the Lord, and a pure love for Him and His Word!
All the turmoil of those Old Testament days reminds me of modern times, even of American politics. If you look just under the surface of current events, you will see the seeds of civil war. The trouble is, so many of the issues are spiritual, just as they were back in Ahab's day. God's people today seem to have just as much trouble in dealing with ungodliness in society and government as they did in Bible times. Why is that, I wonder? Do you think, perhaps, that most of us are just too concerned with trying to survive to do anything to confront the evils that are trying to gain power over us, individually and as a nation? [and I'm not talking about "rebellion," I'm talking about submitting to God and following Him.]
In order to be free from evil domination, we will have to be willing to see what is really happening around us and to us. We will have to be willing to see evil, not close our eyes to it. Seeing it and liking it, or just going along with it (as well as simply closing our eyes to it), is what leads us into slavery. Seeing it and hating it is the beginning of getting free.
God expects us to love what He loves and hate what He hates. This, of course, must be established in our own personal life, but after that, what? I would say, no matter what, start with prayer. Prayer is the launch pad. None of us will know what He is doing, or what we ourselves are to do, without seeking the Lord in prayer. If you don't really trust God, now's the time to dig down into the Word and get your roots planted into Him. Every time you obey Him, you get a little more rooted. You're going to have to trust Him in order to stand godly in the evil day.
The truth is, while Christ's Kingdom is being established on earth, the worldly kingdoms are crumbling. Can you feel the foundations being shaken? Do you see the chaos beginning to take hold of the world's systems? Of course, all those with worldly power, not to mention the evil spiritual entities that hold sway over the nations, are trying to tighten their grip. Controls will strengthen, and when people rebel against control, flattery will try to win them-- but only so that even greater control can be exercised. There's no getting away from this. It's the times we're in! That's why it's so important to see the Kingdom of God and go for it. It's time to see what kingdoms are what, and choose.
Whatever you're called to do in the Kingdom of God, God has provision for you. It takes a lot of courage to take a stand for God in evil times, or even to support one who openly does. But as Jesus said, Be not afraid! We saw how the Lord provided for Elijah-- He sent ravens to feed him! Then He asked a poor widow to care for him, and miraculously provided for her too. Not only was there enough food for them, but there was also provision for healing (her son was raised). Even if the Lord were to call for judgments (such as famine) against an idolatrous nation, His people will be provided for if they will trust Him and obey Him.
As we read in the story of Peter and Cornelius, the Lord even has communications covered: prayer, the leading of the Holy Spirit, visions, and angelic visitations will keep God's people "in the know" and the Kingdom of God running according to His plan. And remember how Stephen got transported by the Spirit, and he just found himself somewhere? Who needs cars, planes, cell phones and the internet when you have such efficient modes of communication and travel? We might as well get used to it-- we're called to live in a supernatural Kingdom! It's not science fiction, it's real! We'll see more and more of it as the return of the King draws nearer.
I know it's normal to say, "Well, I'm not Elijah! Maybe that guy over there is!" but each of us has been given a place of authority in our life, whether large or small; and in this place of rule, we are each called to declare the Word of the Lord and to resist evil, no matter what the apparent cost. We must trust the Lord to provide all that is needed, even when the world from which we have been gaining our support is falling down around our ears.
"And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead." Acts 10:42
All the turmoil of those Old Testament days reminds me of modern times, even of American politics. If you look just under the surface of current events, you will see the seeds of civil war. The trouble is, so many of the issues are spiritual, just as they were back in Ahab's day. God's people today seem to have just as much trouble in dealing with ungodliness in society and government as they did in Bible times. Why is that, I wonder? Do you think, perhaps, that most of us are just too concerned with trying to survive to do anything to confront the evils that are trying to gain power over us, individually and as a nation? [and I'm not talking about "rebellion," I'm talking about submitting to God and following Him.]
In order to be free from evil domination, we will have to be willing to see what is really happening around us and to us. We will have to be willing to see evil, not close our eyes to it. Seeing it and liking it, or just going along with it (as well as simply closing our eyes to it), is what leads us into slavery. Seeing it and hating it is the beginning of getting free.
God expects us to love what He loves and hate what He hates. This, of course, must be established in our own personal life, but after that, what? I would say, no matter what, start with prayer. Prayer is the launch pad. None of us will know what He is doing, or what we ourselves are to do, without seeking the Lord in prayer. If you don't really trust God, now's the time to dig down into the Word and get your roots planted into Him. Every time you obey Him, you get a little more rooted. You're going to have to trust Him in order to stand godly in the evil day.
The truth is, while Christ's Kingdom is being established on earth, the worldly kingdoms are crumbling. Can you feel the foundations being shaken? Do you see the chaos beginning to take hold of the world's systems? Of course, all those with worldly power, not to mention the evil spiritual entities that hold sway over the nations, are trying to tighten their grip. Controls will strengthen, and when people rebel against control, flattery will try to win them-- but only so that even greater control can be exercised. There's no getting away from this. It's the times we're in! That's why it's so important to see the Kingdom of God and go for it. It's time to see what kingdoms are what, and choose.
Whatever you're called to do in the Kingdom of God, God has provision for you. It takes a lot of courage to take a stand for God in evil times, or even to support one who openly does. But as Jesus said, Be not afraid! We saw how the Lord provided for Elijah-- He sent ravens to feed him! Then He asked a poor widow to care for him, and miraculously provided for her too. Not only was there enough food for them, but there was also provision for healing (her son was raised). Even if the Lord were to call for judgments (such as famine) against an idolatrous nation, His people will be provided for if they will trust Him and obey Him.
As we read in the story of Peter and Cornelius, the Lord even has communications covered: prayer, the leading of the Holy Spirit, visions, and angelic visitations will keep God's people "in the know" and the Kingdom of God running according to His plan. And remember how Stephen got transported by the Spirit, and he just found himself somewhere? Who needs cars, planes, cell phones and the internet when you have such efficient modes of communication and travel? We might as well get used to it-- we're called to live in a supernatural Kingdom! It's not science fiction, it's real! We'll see more and more of it as the return of the King draws nearer.
I know it's normal to say, "Well, I'm not Elijah! Maybe that guy over there is!" but each of us has been given a place of authority in our life, whether large or small; and in this place of rule, we are each called to declare the Word of the Lord and to resist evil, no matter what the apparent cost. We must trust the Lord to provide all that is needed, even when the world from which we have been gaining our support is falling down around our ears.
"And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead." Acts 10:42
Thursday, June 10, 2010
June 10, 2010 Why Does Beauty Exist?
Stephen's mention of Solomon's temple in his sermon (we're still in that!), and his quote from Isaiah, are nicely juxtaposed in our One Year Bible reading today. "But Solomon built Him a house. However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says: ‘ Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. What house will you build for Me? says the LORD, Or what is the place of My rest? Has My hand not made all these things?' " Acts 7:47-50 NKJV (Isaiah 66:1,2).
As I contemplate the beauty of the temple and furnishings that Solomon designed, I am quite certain that he created them as an act of worship. I remembered that Solomon himself mentioned that God doesn't live in a physical building, so I decided to look it up (we're coming up to it in just a few days): "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain You. How much less this temple which I have built!" I Kings 8:27 There is so much more to be said about the dwelling-place of God, and I'm sure that topic will unfold as we continue reading throughout the year.
We read in previous chapters that Solomon was quite a naturalist (botanist/biologist). He appreciated how God expressed Himself through the intricacies of nature, and responded to that by echoing the beauty and excellence in his own creations. He wanted the temple surroundings to remind people that God was the creator of the world, and that He should be called upon and worshipped. Solomon knew the language of beauty.
As Stephen also pointed out, the creation itself is not to be worshipped-- when the people made idols and worshipped them, the end result was captivity. There is an obvious difference in decorating things beautifully with images from nature and making a golden calf and worshipping it. It's what's behind the image-making-- the purpose and spirit of it-- that makes artistic expression what it is. I may be stepping into a spiritual hornet's nest here, but the Muslim aesthetic is all about trying to avoid such idolatry (geometric adornment only; hide women's faces and bodies), but it does nothing to change the idolatrous heart of humankind. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Western culture of idolizing beauty in general, and beautiful people particularly. This is where all of our hearts go when we are not letting the Spirit of Truth give our sinful hearts an overhaul.
God is beautiful, but beauty is not god! Beauty is an intrinsic quality of God-- you can't have God without getting extravagant beauty in the bargain! It springs forth from Him. Just look around! And God created human beings with an appreciation of, and an ability to create, astounding beauty. I am very thankful for that! I am a great fan of God's beauty, His artistic ability, and His awe-inspiring creations.
I believe that beauty on this earth exists to testify of God's Beauty, of Him. Getting religious about our attitudes about beauty just doesn't help anything-- it only spoils what God has given. But if we can see beauty as a interface of communion-- back and forth, giving and receiving-- we will enter into a greater realm of Heavenly worship and glory than we have ever been in before.
As I contemplate the beauty of the temple and furnishings that Solomon designed, I am quite certain that he created them as an act of worship. I remembered that Solomon himself mentioned that God doesn't live in a physical building, so I decided to look it up (we're coming up to it in just a few days): "But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain You. How much less this temple which I have built!" I Kings 8:27 There is so much more to be said about the dwelling-place of God, and I'm sure that topic will unfold as we continue reading throughout the year.
We read in previous chapters that Solomon was quite a naturalist (botanist/biologist). He appreciated how God expressed Himself through the intricacies of nature, and responded to that by echoing the beauty and excellence in his own creations. He wanted the temple surroundings to remind people that God was the creator of the world, and that He should be called upon and worshipped. Solomon knew the language of beauty.
As Stephen also pointed out, the creation itself is not to be worshipped-- when the people made idols and worshipped them, the end result was captivity. There is an obvious difference in decorating things beautifully with images from nature and making a golden calf and worshipping it. It's what's behind the image-making-- the purpose and spirit of it-- that makes artistic expression what it is. I may be stepping into a spiritual hornet's nest here, but the Muslim aesthetic is all about trying to avoid such idolatry (geometric adornment only; hide women's faces and bodies), but it does nothing to change the idolatrous heart of humankind. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the Western culture of idolizing beauty in general, and beautiful people particularly. This is where all of our hearts go when we are not letting the Spirit of Truth give our sinful hearts an overhaul.
God is beautiful, but beauty is not god! Beauty is an intrinsic quality of God-- you can't have God without getting extravagant beauty in the bargain! It springs forth from Him. Just look around! And God created human beings with an appreciation of, and an ability to create, astounding beauty. I am very thankful for that! I am a great fan of God's beauty, His artistic ability, and His awe-inspiring creations.
I believe that beauty on this earth exists to testify of God's Beauty, of Him. Getting religious about our attitudes about beauty just doesn't help anything-- it only spoils what God has given. But if we can see beauty as a interface of communion-- back and forth, giving and receiving-- we will enter into a greater realm of Heavenly worship and glory than we have ever been in before.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
March 31, 2010
The word "compassion" came to me today as I read about how Jesus responded to the people who came to Him. He preached the truth to them, healed them and fed them, even though He had gone aside to be alone. This was His habitual lifestyle.
Meditating on this, I began to think of how seldom I am in the place to feel compassion, or be moved by it. I work at home, where I am comfortable, have clothes to wear and food to eat. When I go on errands, I rarely see anyone in need. I am sheltered from the difficulties of life. I see photos, almost daily, and read of the disasters and other horrors in the world on the internet, and it is easy to become overwhelmed by all of it. But do I really feel compassion? My response to Haiti was to give money through Samaritan's Purse, for I truly hurt for them. But, in general, I find I can offer up prayer but little else. I think the shear magnitude of all of it causes it to feel unreal. If it all truly touched me, I think I would be crushed.
How different our Christian life would be if we walked about as Jesus did and really talked to people! Is it possible that true compassion takes eye contact? The sound of a voice? A touch? If we could again encounter the world's need on a daily basis, in our own sphere first, then I think we would find ourselves again moved with compassion as Jesus was. He still is! If we could find ways to put ourselves in the presence of others who have need, then we would find Him again moving as He did before, and we would see the miracles it often takes to meet those needs. It's just going to take deliberate action on the part of a modern-day person, on my part.
Meditating on this, I began to think of how seldom I am in the place to feel compassion, or be moved by it. I work at home, where I am comfortable, have clothes to wear and food to eat. When I go on errands, I rarely see anyone in need. I am sheltered from the difficulties of life. I see photos, almost daily, and read of the disasters and other horrors in the world on the internet, and it is easy to become overwhelmed by all of it. But do I really feel compassion? My response to Haiti was to give money through Samaritan's Purse, for I truly hurt for them. But, in general, I find I can offer up prayer but little else. I think the shear magnitude of all of it causes it to feel unreal. If it all truly touched me, I think I would be crushed.
How different our Christian life would be if we walked about as Jesus did and really talked to people! Is it possible that true compassion takes eye contact? The sound of a voice? A touch? If we could again encounter the world's need on a daily basis, in our own sphere first, then I think we would find ourselves again moved with compassion as Jesus was. He still is! If we could find ways to put ourselves in the presence of others who have need, then we would find Him again moving as He did before, and we would see the miracles it often takes to meet those needs. It's just going to take deliberate action on the part of a modern-day person, on my part.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
January 10, 2010
OYB: As I was reading, I was struck by how Abraham was respected by the people among whom he resided. They considered him "a mighty prince among us" Genesis 23:6. Abraham treated the Hittites with respect-- related to them and did business with them according to their current customs. He lived "in the world and not of it." And he had favor.
When Jesus healed the leper, He told him to "show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them". He was demonstrating New Covenant truth while maintaining a respectful attitude to those of the Old Covenant who did not yet believe. Matthew 8:4
If we want to have a good witness in the world and favor with the people, we have to behave in a manner that is respectful, understandable, and unoffensive. Culture and customs are a language, and it is possible to communicate effectively with them without compromising truth and uprightness.
I was extra pleased, then, when I got to the Proverbs selection: "Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you. . . so you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and of people." Proverbs 3:3,4
Respectful manners go a long way to bring you favor.
When Jesus healed the leper, He told him to "show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them". He was demonstrating New Covenant truth while maintaining a respectful attitude to those of the Old Covenant who did not yet believe. Matthew 8:4
If we want to have a good witness in the world and favor with the people, we have to behave in a manner that is respectful, understandable, and unoffensive. Culture and customs are a language, and it is possible to communicate effectively with them without compromising truth and uprightness.
I was extra pleased, then, when I got to the Proverbs selection: "Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you. . . so you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and of people." Proverbs 3:3,4
Respectful manners go a long way to bring you favor.
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