Jun 6
The Finale of the Dark Night of the Soul
THE JOURNEY
For those of you who were not here in the beginning stages of this blog, you might not know that we are on a journey through three phases of life that will lead us to true, pure Spirituality in God. Those three phases, the Dark Night of the Wilderness, the Dark Night of the Soul and the coming Dark Night of the Spirit, parallel the three rooms of the Tabernacle.
In the Wilderness, God rids us of overt sinful tendencies. In the Dark Night of the Soul, God rids us of our ambition to achieve. Later, we shall see what the Dark Night of the Spirit achieves. The term “Dark Night” is descriptive of the directionless feelings we experience as we traverse from one station or piece of furniture to the next.
The Outer Court of the Tabernacle parallels the Wilderness, the Holy Place parallels the Soul, and the Holy of Holies Parallels the Spirit, the place of true, pure Spirituality – the parallel will be better seen after the initial shock of the moment dissipates . The Holy of Holies is the Secret Place of the Most High – and few experience it. Not because it is not available to them, but due to the fact they will not stay the course long enough to get there. But that is a topic yet to be covered.
THE SOUL’S LAST STAND
The Altar of Incense is the last stand of the Dark Night of the Soul. It is a place of transition. Here you will fight the last vestiges of the rule of your Soul over you, and prayer is the transition piece God uses. Just to remind you, the Soul is made of three parts – mind or intellect, will and emotion. Here, in the place of prayer, your will is trying to tell you that you have other things to do. Your intellect is telling you that prayer does not do that much good and to top it all off, your emotions are bored with it all and looking for some excitement. Yes, your Soul is fighting its end, which it senses is rapidly approaching.
THE TRANSITION OF PRAYER
It may surprise you that prayer is the transition piece for humanity to touch God, who is Spirit. You physically take your breath in and when you speak the prayer God places within you, out comes spiritual vapors that rise and winds its way into the very heart of God. This is truly an interchange of Divine proportions! This is the smoke that arises from the Golden Altar right there before you. The smoke/vapor filled prayer from this place will take you into the presence of God. He is waiting there for you – He has waited, He is waiting, He will always be waiting there for the sweet fragrance of the five types or ingredients of prayer, I will soon discuss, to touch Him – yes I did mean touch Him.
SUBMISSION OF THE SOUL
The prayer of Jesus in the Garden – “Not my will,” is all about Jesus submitting His soul to God the Father. You will have to do the same. The prayer there in the secret place of the garden and here, where you are kneeling in the hiddeness of the Holy Place, is the prayer of Jesus that qualified Him to intercede for us in Heaven. It qualifies you too.
The final subordination of the Soul is a massive undertaking and it does not submit easily. That is why it is called the Dark Night of the Soul. The struggle to complete this transition will ebb and flow. You will be successful one day and fail the next. But if you do not quit, you always win and in the process you will learn to abide under the shadow of the Almighty!
The practice of your soul submitting to your spirit is practice and preparation for your submission to the Spirit of God. Soul must not die, but it must submit to Spirit for you to live a truly spiritual life. When soul eventually submits, you will be able to love the things God loves, hate the things God hates, persevere with all diligence, have a renewed spiritual mind, and hear from God in the midst of the chaos and turmoil that assails your life.
Blessings,
John Paul
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My desire and longing for years has been to qualify to become a bud and then bloom as a “first fruit” as a daughter in the Kingdom of God. I want to be picked off the vine and used for Him.
Many are called, but few are chosen…
This is the hour that the first fruits are soon to be seen. My constant prayer—do in me what You need to do to make myself an acceptable vessel that You can tabernacle with.
It is going to be an exciting time–an explosive time–when He releases the Kingdom and Himself in a group of people to take to the hurting world.
Romans 8 be birthed…Holy Spirit may our delivery be swift like the Hebrew women birthed.
Get us out of the birth canal into Your loving hands and breathe the Holiness of God into us.
Keep slapping us until we come alive into this hour of the kingdom!!!
…”For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs, together and now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly awaiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body…”
Abiding in the Vine,
Linda
Thank-you for the blessings you pour out with these articles of wisdom. Glory to God for the inspiration
I have to say that I have been led to pray more and more within the last month. It has to do with seeing God release what he has shown me. I have not seen the release, but I also understand that there is a contending for the promise to come. So, I will continue to pray and believe for God to release his promise. Lord, let your kingdom come, your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven.
Blessings
I find it interesting to see that prayer is the topic when I have been fighting so hard to pray. I try to ask for little things in prayer these days because I am am so tired of asking for the big things and never seeing them. I’m trying to gain faith and momentum but it seems even the little things are unanswered.
My faith weakens as I, in my own dark night, pray for my daughter as she lays there unmoving and staring into nothing. Her seizures eat away her life and our house is devoid of a child’s laughter and the pitter-patter of feet. She has no presents or cake for her birthday. She has no Santa Clause at Christmas. For years of daily prayers nothing has changed that I can tell. His name is healing and I do not see it. His name is peace and I rarely find it. He speaks but I do not hear.
I wonder if continuing to ask for things from God in my ever weakening faith even does any good. If I do not believe He will answer why should I continue in my vain repetitions? Yet, I run in this direction only because I am but a shell of what I used to be spiritually and I know no other direction to run. All I can imagine is that this is the part or the dark night where only sheer discipline and the small mustard seed of faith are my only companions. I keep taking steps forward in this direction because you say it is worth it not to give up and because as long as I keep walking I will find out if there is a finish line. If I give up here I’ll never know. I feel blisters and burning muscles screaming to stop a race that has no purpose. The battle in my mind is to keep going when everything looks contrary to God’s names and promises.
I hope these prayers mean something. I hope there is a finish line and a prize. I hope He is who He says He is. Right now that is all I have.
One of Those
One of Those, I had to write & tell you how precious you are to God, how you, yes even you, move His heart greatly. I do not claim to know the depths of your pain & sorrow, but I know that He does. I know that He sees You, and that You move Him greatly. I know even saying that may raise questions or responses in your heart and mind, some you think that might be “contrary” to Him, but those to are so precious to Him & move Him because they are from you to Him. Just as a child’s father’s love is overwhelmed with his child no matter what the child says, so God YOUR Father is overwhelmed with you. Just one glance - an instant glance - makes His heart beat faster. I don’t know your answer and the end, but you are greatly, greatly, greatly loved. Blessings to you, you are true royalty in heaven’s court. Will be praying for you.
Dennis
One of Those
I cannot begin to think i have any answer but only one. Jesus does.. I have to have faith in just knowing that.. We will know everything when we see Him face to face… and there is only One way to get there…you already know the answer to that..
Love from another “One of Those”
Thank you all for the wonderful support. It means a great deal to me. I can feel the prayers.
This is just a thought to throw out there but ever notice the human tendency to try to figure out the reasons for all the suffering in the world? People are trying to absorb the horror of terrible things going on or that have gone on and understand how God fits into it all.
I have all sorts of comments and questions concerning my daughter. Some say God only gives the best parents His angels because they are so special. I know they are trying to comfort themselves. God doesn’t make angels with broken wings. I’ve had concerned people with furrowed brow ask all the things wrong with her. I’ve even had some ask for her life expectancy. I know they are trying to deal with the discomfort, shock, and horror of the situation. You don’t ask those questions to a parent to comfort them.
Here is my thought or theory: The dark night of the soul ferrets out the human longing to understand the actions of a good God in a suffering world. His ways are not our ways and we may never understand this side of heaven. Perhaps the dark night of the soul is a point in which the ‘whys’ must be overcome. Just as laziness must be pushed aside to pray, so must the overwhelming questions. We must trust Him and I believe part of the dark night may be to push that limit to the extreme.
My situation is mild compared to the suffering encountered by others. Look at the news. Look at this video (only if you are prepared for a tear jerker) and be prepared to face these questions.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3v7ZQUzr0yo
This is the BEST post of the last six months! I cannot help but laugh when I read your description of the souls final struggle.
I can hear the countdown of the referee in the boxing ring. 10…9…8…7…6…5…4…3…
Psalm 63:7 for you have been my help,
and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.
8 My soul clings to you;
your right hand upholds me.
Psalm 91 beloveds as we continue this journey together, blessings
To one of those and all whom souls are in anguish I pray that you continue to stand and quit looking at the circumstances. I know it’s hard but don’t be moved by what you see it’s only to make you doubt God and that is what happened in the Garden doubt came in. I am not preaching I am sharing I too look at my circumstances but I have to speak out loud what God say and I ask Jehovah Rapha-God that heals to heal and as I sit in his presence with the right Worship music that fills the atmosphere with his presence. Now go into the secret place and stay in there till you are touched and that means a while talk, confess do what you feel prompted but once it’s all over sit quietly( I know you may fall asleep) but get in that place and don’t leave till you are touch and you walk out changed. It can be done I know I have been here and it blessed my soul and I received healing and faith and he wants you whole so you need strengthened and as Isaiah 26:3 SPEAK OUT LOUD this scripture and yes it gives you peace I have stood on it. Remember the Word of God is LIFE it is SPIRITUAL it superceds the Natural. This is a fight and yes you are tired but he is your strength so play your worship Music and go and worship Daddy he is waiting for you so he can exchange your fears, doubts, worries for Joy so you can continue the good fight of FAITH. Always run to him and SING YOUR HEART OUT TO HIM act like it is a AUDIENCE OF ONE. I too have these issue but which soldier of God doesn’t it’s just we need a reminder of where to go and what to do sometimes. Love you always and take care may Daddy strengthen you and may you see his face he is who he is but don’t let go of what you are believing him for be like a bulldog on a bone DON’T LET GO OF IT AT ALL FIGHT WITH ALL YOUR MIGHT no matter what doesn’t change in the NATURAL the spirit overrides the natural. Remember we change natural circumstances with the Word of God so don’t quit hammering with the Word of God You can do this and that spirit of Infirmity bind it and loose Good health and declare and decree. I know it works because my cousin was having seizures after she just had a baby and I am in another state and I went into agreement and we spoke to those circumstances and that spirit of infirmity and she didn’t have them anymore and then her Blood Pressure wouldn’t go down so I spoke and I declared and decreed that it would be 120/80 and she would be going home on Saturday and I called her on Saturday from out of state and she didn’t know I was praying so when I spoke to her she told me she was on her way home and that her blood pressure is stable. You too can have this same victory in Jesus I am no better than you. But that is my testimony and me sharing with you and You too will have one in Jesus Name. Love you Your sister in Christ.
One of those,
I have been praying for you. May you know that the Lord is near & much nearer than you think He is…..
I just watched the You Tube video that you mentioned. It brought tears to my eyes & prayers to my lips…
As I watched & thought about what you had written, I realised how many “Why’s” & trying to figure things out in my head had taken over the desire for me to take action.
I felt the Holy Spirit remind me of Jesus’ words & His ways. He never invited us to ask why, He never asked why, He said ‘I do what I see my Father in Heaven doing’. Jesus saw suffering all around Him, yet it never stopped Him from continuing to bring the Kingdom of God (healing, deliverance, feeding the poor) whereever He went.
His heart was moved….and He took action.
There are times when I have seen suffering or injustice & I have wondered ‘Will this ever change?’, ‘Will prayer make a difference?’…..
Through the dark night, I am beginning to learn not to ask too many question, to not let my intellect & ‘figuring it out’ get in the way. But, to learn to just pray & lift it all to God, to speak the Kingdom of God into every situation;
‘Let your Kingdom come, Let your will be done, here on Earth, as it is in Heaven’
The Arena was packed – the crowd went wild at the spectacular knock-out! The commentator could not believe his eyes – Soul was down for the count! But wait… Soul pushed itself up from the mat; dizzy & disoriented it shakes off the blow and clears its thoughts. All the while, not realizing it has lost its edge!?!?
The bell rings for one final round. Soul refuses to quit! Oh No, Soul is stung by a left and then a right and then a hit to the solar plexus. Soul hits the mat hard once again; the crowd is in a frenzy now – they cannot believe it, as they hear the referee make the final countdown …3…2…1 – KNOCK-OUT.
Spirit - is declared the winner!
One of Those,
I agree with the others, that God loves you and your little daughter.
Have you ever played and released the Word in her bedroom 24/7? There is power in the spoken word. The word can pierce the darkness, the word can divide the soul and spirit,etc.
I was in the hospital a few days ago, and I kept healing scriptures flowing on my walkman and also praise and worship music. After surgery I did not have to have any pain medicine–and I had major surgery.
Doing something simple like letting His healing words flow—puts God to the test—and we already know He wants to heal us.
Daddy God, embrace your precious little daughter. Move with your compassion and have mercy on this dear little one. Bring renewed strength to her mother, and we under gird her with our prayers!!! Thank you Jesus!!!
Love,
Linda
Because I went through the dark night of the soul, through depression and panic attacks, I can tell you this word is real. There is a road and only a few will find the gate to get to His presence. I did. I found the secret place. I learned how to get there…Today is easier. Prayer, meditation, quieteness…God use different ways with different people. He is the secret place. After, only after, you go through the dark night, you can say it was worth it. Only after. Not before, when you read about. Not during, when you are fighting the process…It was at 8 years ago for me.I learn my song in the night. And I wouldn’t change those days for nothing, absolute nothing in this world. No riches, no gold, no fame. I found the secret place ,under His wings… and there…I am safe. I pray for my brothers and sisters that they will learn they songs too. And they will sing back to him. He is worthy…Where is God? Who teach us songs in the dark night of our souls…? I tasted and learned that He is good.
With much love.
I have read a lot of posts here, but never written myself. Thank you all so much for your prayers for my wife and my family (One of Those if my wife). This blog has made a huge difference in her life, and in our lives as a couple. John Paul, God has been using you to reel us in even when our older girl was a baby; she heard the 365 Names streaming over the internet and perked up and seemed like she was worshiping. It was awesome, so we got the CDs. We have gotten more of your teachings and now go to a Bridge church too. Your blog especially has been like water in the desert for my wife. She has been challenged and inspired, and has challenged and inspired me too. Events with our 2nd daughter’s disability have been pretty hard to deal with at times and she still has a lot of struggles; even just breathing without choking and hacking while she eats is hard for her. Anyway, this blog has really truly helped us both. I just wanted to say thank you to you John Paul, and all of you who have shared your concern and your prayers.
Bless you John Paul in the name of Jesus.
Bless all you others in the name of Jesus too.
For me it seems a bit corny for me to say that, but thats the best thing I can think of, and for helping my wife and daughters, I want the best for you.
Thank you again very much John Paul.
Much sense, much, much sense!
Ummm…One of the things that I have been learning in the middle of all of this, is the dimension of Gods provision. When we put all the peices together and see all that He has put in the earth, both naturally and spiritually, it is truly massive!
What He has at His disposal, is exponentially greater, to the power of infinity…
All the rest that happens in between is the work of man and the enemy. I am learning to rest my life in His hands in the face of ANY outcome…because in the end, it is ALWAYS good, because He is God!
One of those, if you could hear me say one thing, I would say, check these guys out:
http://www.ibethel.org/churchlife/?page=153
They have had several doctor confirmed healings of cancer, several healings of polio and these are just the major ones that I can remember, from so many more that sometimes even happen over a skype call! Check it out, I’m just saying check it out and see for yourself!
http://www.ibethel.org/features/testimonies/index.php?f=testimonies.php&page=24
Can God heal your child?
Wow!! what a post … all this is revelation to realize what’s been happening to us… and wisdom to understand God’s plan to prepare His Bride for His soon return!!
Blessings!
One of Those,
Thank you for sharing your deep thoughts/pain/sorrow.
I feel sometimes we live in this superficial realm of not being open and honest of how we are doing/feeling inside, which only keeps us imprisoned/tormented. The fact that you continue to hold on to God even in the midst of a long standing difficult situation says a whole lot about your integrity, character, spiritual growth. Anyone can serve when it is easy but when the road is rough, real character shows through.
Sometimes I feel like a shell of what I once was also. I knew something was wrong but could not put my finger on it until the Lord opened it up to me in a dream. I had a dream about a red veil being around a large group of people at a wedding. I was standing on the outside. The Lord showed me that the veil represented separation I had from Him. I was close to Him in a relationship at one time, but over the years I gradually pulled away from Him moving into a legalistic relationship with Him. Since I kept coming up short, I started feeling guilt and condemnation which only pulled me further away from Him.
It is a no win situation -which is why Jesus came.
I have a son who has been on the streets for years on drugs. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a woman with a ministry to homeless people gets him into a christian group home for drug addicts this week. God is working behind the scenes in ways we can not begin to comprehend.
Don’t be so hard on yourself. Blessings. Barb
Lyle,
Great comments on the soul/spirit fight. What a reality.
I just had to beat down my flesh today when I went to exercise because “my body didn’t feel like it.” I guess I need the practice. Fortunately, just like forcing yourself to exercise when you do not feel like it gets easier over time. The more the spirit rules, the stronger it gets and the soul becomes under it’s control. At least until a stronger battle comes along then it cam be back to the 1-2-3, knockout of soul.
Barb
WOW, YOU MEAN REALLY TOUCH GOD? OH WE ARE SO BLESSED .I LOVE MY LORD . TAKE ME HIGHER LORD YOU ARE MY ALL.HOW CAN I EVER THANK YOU THOUGH IT HAS BEEN TOUGH, I HAVE FOUND SO MANY TREASURES IN MY DARK NIGHT OF THE SOUL, WORDS CAN NOT SAY WHAT I FEEL I CAN ALMOST TASTE SUCH SWEETNESS IN MY MOUTH NO ONE WILL KNOW BUT YOU FATHER I KNOW SOMETHING WONDERFULL IS ABOUT TO HAPPEN , I CAN TASTE THE SWEETNESS IN MY MOUTH THAT IS THE ONLY WAY I CAN DESCRIBE WHTA YOU ARE SAYING TO ME , STRANGE I KNOW BUT THEN I AM A LITTLE STRANGE BUT OH SO LOVED BY YOU , YOUR LOVING DAUGHTER, LET ME GO A LITTLE HIGHER JUST A LITTLE HIGHER CAN I GO A LITTLE HIGHER CAN I, A LITTLE CLOSER TO THE FIRE,WOW.
It started in the garden and ended in the garden! Jesus was the last Adam.Ever wonder what that naked man in the garden was doing there, when he left his linen cloth and fled naked? He was an angel who appeared to Jesus to strengthen him. The mere sight of a naked man was to remind Jesus he was doing his fathers will to reverse what the first naked man,Adam did.Bless the Lord who only does wonderous things!
“Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors, they are established. A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is.” Pro. 15:22, 23
I have been participating on this blog. site for about a month and it has been a real blessing to me. Every time some one shares, we each gain from what you bring to this table.
I am not into computers–I do well if I can send a simple e-mail out. In the rural area that I live in there is no fast service—-only sloooooooow dial up service. Sometimes I have to wait 20 to 30 minutes for this blog. to load up on my screen—but it is worth the wait.
I have gone through an ink cartridge and package of computer paper—copying what I have missed during the past months. I want to be on the same page as y’all.
I have been challenged reading these teachings and everyone’s insights. I thought I was going to be bored going through a healing process stuck in my home, but God surprised me. He gifted me with this opportunity to take part in this ministry blog. My spirit takes wings, even when my flesh is weak. Hallelujah!!!
John Paul, we know you have a lot on your plate ministering in several areas–but I speak for all of us that we are eagerly awaiting the next course of this heavenly meal you are serving us. May I have sweet tea—I have never acquired a taste for coffee…
(Ha! Ha!)
Experience His joy today!!!
Linda
Greetings,
I so enjoy reading this blog which I have only recently discovered. When I breathe in deeply before prayer, the Holy Spirit moves my hands around slowly and steadily to various positions, such as palms upward to praise and also in a circular motion. He always ends with my hands dangling downward in front of me. It is incredible. Does anyone experience this or have knowledge that might enlighten me more re this - particularly, why does He end with my hands dangling downward instead of upward? Sincerely, J.
In boxing, the one who has the longer reach usually has the ‘edge’ or ‘advantage’ over his opponent. Pleonekteo – is a Greek word that was used in I Thess. 2:18 describing how the Apostle Paul was “thwarted” by Satan. Ever feel like you have been taken advantage of? Well, this is where we get the English word “advantage.” This Greek word has several shades of meaning but one in particular is “overreach.” It also means: “to have or hold the bigger portion”
So many things are beginning to make sense/gel for me – many disconnected pieces have all been connected – all for the first time. It’s when this ‘connection’ was made for me that – Soul, lost its ‘edge!’ Somehow through this process I began to connect all of the separate pieces of information and when that happened I began to see things in a way that I have never seen before.
One of the primary ways that the enemy has gained the advantage in my life - is through anger. During the course of my life anger has flared up – any number of things would trigger it – and when that happened it became an open door for the enemy to wreak havoc in my life. In this way I was so easily taken ‘advantage’ of.
“The devil is like a roaring lion – seeking for an opportunity to devour,” (Ephesians 4:27; 1Peter 5:8) and through the un-confessed sin of anger the door was open and he could easily gain the advantage over me. No longer will he have the access to my life that was given to him, through the open door of my un-confessed, un-repented of anger!
At the beginning of May I spent a week at a mountain retreat. During my time there I had an unusual experience with anger – it almost ruined my time away. Ironically, it turned out to be THE missing piece of the puzzle, I had been searching for.
As this anger flared up I was immediately taken back to five specific times in my life. It was as if God rewound the video of my life and showed me five specific instances when I was 8, 13, 17, 19 &23. Each time, anger was there, and after each ‘event’ - my life my life took a turn in a negative direction. Seeing things in this way has released me from all of the pain of the past that in one way or another was caused by anger.
So, for me, when I reached this ‘connection-point’ I began to “gain the upper hand” another meaning of pleonekteo. The irony in all of this, is the fact that I NEVER thought that I had a problem with anger, or that it was even an issue in my life.
Soul is finally ‘willing’ to submit to Spirit not because I’m forcing it to, but because of this fresh revelation/understanding that I have received during the last several months. My Souls desire to submit to Spirit is no longer being “thwarted” by the enemy because of the advantage that he has had in my life, in the way that he so easily exploited me through the open door of un-confessed anger.
The writer of Proverbs says that: “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32
Yes, Soul has lost its ‘edge!’ I have identified the source of this conflict - Spirit is beginning to rule! “…and the dragon was enraged!” – Rev.12:17
I am a spontaneous worshiper, singing what is in my heart at the moment before God. Recently, I began to sing about touching Him, and this really upset the apple cart of those in the band so much so that they abruptly changed the chord progression to make me stop! “New Age,” they claim! I didn’t sing anything deeper than what you just said in your posting.
John Paul, will you please address this at some point. Why is pressing in to God and longing to experience Him considered to be New Age by some? I really don’t understand! I’ve been experiencing this battle where there are believers (ones I love) who are ‘charismatic’ who will use the ‘New Age’ accusation to contain the fire. I don’t tend or kindle any strange fires. The fire I tend is one of passion for Him. Please Help!
John Wrote:
Dark Night of the Spirit -
The term “Dark Night” is descriptive of the directionless feelings we experience as we traverse from one station or piece of furniture to the next.
I write:
Well, hello John and friends. Its good to be alive in this “Dark Night of the Spirit” that we are facing in these trying times both on a global level and on an individual level, especially for those who have been following this blog since its conception. Well anyway, I didn’t think that I had anything worth sharing this week in this particular blog however,after reading the blog for the third time, and applying the wisdom and insight, I couldn’t help but respond as it related to events that were happening in my personal life within the last three weeks. I couldn’t help but notice that as I allowed the Lord to open my eyes what I thought was new to me was there all along.
My awareness or perceptions were tweaked by the Lord’s Holy Spirit within me only after I surrendered everything in my ordinary life circumstances and events over to Him. It was at this point of surrender, that He, the Lord proceeded to remove the stuff or furniture of my life that served as a deterrent to my spiritual growth, regarding a certain matter that I had to face as it related to my oldest daughter.
What did it take for me to surrender? Me placing my complete trust in something that was beyond my understanding. Furthermore, embracing the cross of whatever the event was in my life, offering it back to the Lord, for intervention and direction regarding my daughter and then standing back and watching Him work on her behalf. Often times admitting to the fact that there were times that I felt completely helpless and directionless, and then coming to a place of growth and spirit renewal and resurrection from what I originally perceived was a dry a barren place. Thanks John Paul Jackson for all you do for to advance the Kingdom of God on the inside of us!
Blessings Always
and Forever,
Shirley C.
This is the first time that i am participation out of Namibia Africa inthe coffee talk in i can just thank the Lord for the operations of the body of Christ in the profetic and can just thank the Lord for the deep that are talking to the deep in this ministry thank you so much for the streams ministry
This is my second attempt to respond to Maryann. In the first attempt, I hit the wrong key and came out with (I have a….lol) oh well, here it is in a nutshell:
For Maryann:
I have a word of encouragement for you Maryann regarding spontaneous worship and your response to you fellow brothers and sisters who are worshipers. Forgive them and your response to them in your heart and pray for them to enter into the heavenly worship for they do not know what they are doing. This has worked for me in many circumstances regarding worship. Most of the time, the Lord will tap one or two people on the shoulder in the spontaneous flow of worship and the rest will follow, if they are paying attention to the way the Holy Spirit is moving in the worship. But this takes practice regarding understanding the presence of God in the heavenly worship.
The thing that the enemy wants to do to God’s people in spontaneous worship is to discourage the flow and then to kill it before it grows. He causes heart issues that eventually causes the flow of worship to cease and eventually dry up. When the heart gets hardened its almost impossible to enter in….I will pray for you to weather this storm in the worship and that the Lord will give you eyes to see what He see’s concerning this issue, and ears to hear what the spirit is saying to you and the group through this experience. May God Bless you with His Peace in all that you do for Him!
In His Love,
Shirley C.
Thanks to everyone who has written with such honesty and sincerity. My husband and I are relating to the anguish, and directionless submission process. It doesn’t really matter how hard the fight seems to be or the circumstances but it is still very scary. We would covet your prayers earnestly as the battle has intensified. We ask prayer warriors to pray for us in our little valley stream. We know that this is only the movie version of what has already taken place, but we are finding out that Jesus likes special effects a real lot. It is astounding! We are becoming an incredible war machine. Who can teach like God? I humbly ask you to not forget us for we feel alone at this time. Thank you to all who are joined to us in crowning our King Jesus. All praise and glory to him who is true love and true light. Peace and Love, Holly
It is so easy to be blinded to our own faults.
Which is why we have to continually ask God search our hearts/souls to reveal these “masked strangers.” Even then, He seems to wait until we are ready to receive it. My husband had a strong religious/critical spirit for years and served in the church faithfully. I could not figure out how the church could not see it but it was so clear to the family. Finally one of the pastors was praying for him for something else and suddenly started praying against this religious spirit. Afterward the pastor apolgized to him and they both agreed they did not know where that came from. God has such a scense of humor! That was the beginning of opening his eyes to the truth. Yea God, another one.
I said many times that even though I got caught up in the Babylon, materialistic culture for awhile (years)I did not have a critical/religious spirit. Even though I had become critical of my husband. It was only recently that God showed me (through a dream of a red veil) that I did leave the relationship with Him and had moved into a more performance based relationship. Forgetting my first love. No one could have convinced me of this. My husband saw it (being familiar with the same spirit) but no one else in my family/friends.
I believe when we start getting critical/judgmental of other people, even in the inside, when we are moving ourselves from grace to under the law/judgment and condemnation. I have found that the closer I get to God, the more grace I have for His children and this world, even when they do mess up. The further I move from him, the more intolerant I become of others.
It is pretty predictable. I don’t get obnoxious with others, I just “agree with the enemy in my mind about them” and pull myself away, bad decisions. I have had to get back to the basics again about where our warfare is at, not in this world.
Unchecked thoughts from the enemy have a lot of power over us when we agree with it. We are moved in a direction contrary to God’s will/Word. The enemy was defeated at the cross by Jesus, we are spiritually a new man, so the old man is dead unless we resurrect him. That leaves the strongholds/spiritual warfare in our minds/thoughts. Words we speak are even more powerful since we are proclaiming out loud what we are believe (takes the guess work out for the devil).
It is said we speak 1200 words to ourselves about ourselves but 1100 are negative. For depression/anxiety, just change your thoughts.
To defeat the enemy and gain power/recover lost land given to the enemy, speak out the written and spoken Word of God against the enemy. Use your sword !
Most of this stuff - I learned years ago but unless you walk in it, it does not help you have the victory.
It all seems too easy, too simple but so was salvation. Somewhere along the line, I tried to “complicate things.” Praise the Lord for His faithfulness, He never gives up, He never quits.
It is far more then my mind can comprehend.
I think that when the enemy starts reminding us of our past/failures, we need to remind him of his future.
He may also want to hear the story of Jesus again or about the power of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps he should be reminded of the blood, of who you are when he attacks you. When he is attacking others, perhaps he needs to hear you proclaim good things over that person. It doesn’t take very long for the enemy to run off with his tail between his legs. I think God probably sets him up a lot making him “think” he can takes us so God can watch us beat him down and build character in us.
Sorry to be such a word hog here. I have been enjoying all of the conversations here. I tend to be a talker when I get started. God is dealing with me in a lot of areas. I have been off work for about 7 months now as a NP (enjoying very minute of it). God has been helping me to clean out a lot of closets in my mind that have accumulated over many years of “business.”
It sure is easier if you just stay close to Him rather then moving back and forth like a girlfriend rather then a wife. Then having to find and clean out all these closets. But I know that as I do, I get even stronger. Some people learn the easy way, some the hard way but whatever it takes, God is patient/kind.
take care.
Barb
Lyle,
I have enjoyed your blogs. under Dark Night of the Soul.
Do you remember the song, “The Champion”, that Carman had out several years ago? In the song the devil gets upset because God’s countdown is not the devil’s countdown. Satan is trying to defeat Jesus through his evil ways. God is counting to release and raise up Jesus to total victory……..
Now, that you are identifying your problem with anger,
God, through the finished work of Jesus Christ, will help you overcome your anger.
There is a scripture in Eph.4:26: “Be angry, and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your wrath.”
Moses disobeyed God’s direction and in anger smote the rock and he suffered the consequences of his action…
Later in the scriptures Jesus was angered with the corrupt religious system and overturned tables—but it was not sin.
Lyle, I pray that God will bring “balance” to your temperament. May the Holy Spirit “check” your anger when it will lead to sin. May the Holy Spirit “arise boldly: in you when He channels your anger for His plans and purposes.
You are a champion in Jesus ad He is molding you into an end time warrior.
Let God arise and His enemies be scattered!!!
Linda
I spoke with a WAR VET today and asked him if there was an overwhelming feeling of fear when fighting in a war? He said “no you must resign yourself that you may die, that someone is looking to kill you at all times and so you must look to destroy him first!” ” If you seek to hide to protect your life, you will not fight but you will hide, and you most likely will get killed if you won’t fight!”Then he said,” you must have faith in your superiors, that they know intelligence about the enemy!”
Also in worship and praise, remember David in the psalms, I WILL PRAISE THE LORD! There may not be a feeling to praise, so need to use the WILL! And his praise shall be continually in my mouth!
———
Its strange,but as I listen to what people are going through, my situation does not seem so bad! Shirley,JESUS BLESS YOU WITH WORD OF WISDOM AND WORD OF KNOWLEDGE.
Linda – Thanks for the encouragement. And yes, I remember the song by Carman. There is one song that is a favorite of mine, it’s called “One Drop” by Ray Boltz.
All I know is that I am thankful that John Paul started this blog. Everyone has their own story – a story of redemption, that is uniquely their own. I see the tapestry of their story - here, on this blog.
Lately, It seems as though the Spirit of God has been emphasizing to me that there is “one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all”- I have seen this reflected in the lives of those who have shared their story – their own journey – here on this blog.
For me, it goes back to the insight that God gave me on that passage in Ephesians 2:10 “We are God’s ‘workmanship’”- His ‘poiema.’ My own paraphrased translation: “We are God’s work of art, His poem, His song, His masterpiece”- that is in process, during our three score and ten years, here on earth.
It’s a process of preparation, where in time, through the work of the Holy Spirit we will become a reflection of His Son – God is looking for His Son… in us. When I look at people, I try and see them in this way.
God has a vested interest in His beloved children – the price that Jesus paid on the cross – His body that was beaten and disfigured beyond recognition and His precious blood that was poured out so that we could “overcome, by THE BLOOD of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.” -Rev 12:11
“Having cancelled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; He took it away, nailing it to THE CROSS. Having disarmed the principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them, in it.” - Colossians 2:14-15
Even now, I am still amazed 18 years later, at how God reached into my stony heart and opened my blind eyes, so that I could see. Truly – His GRACE is AMAZING!
….AND THIS IS THE OFFENSIVE; MISSIONARY END OF TIME
CALL FOR ACTIVE; ENGAGED CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY LIVING
AND FORMING IN JESUS NAME AND FULL BIBLICAL ORDER
IN TOWNS ON EARTH GLOBAL NOW UP TO THE DAY OF THE
LORD — ASKING FOR YOUR PRAYER AND YOU TAKING PART
JOSEPH - PO BOX 24 02 15 - WUPPERTAL 42289 GERMANY
“Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His “wife” has made herself ready.” Rev. 19:7
There is a difference between a new bride and a tried wife.
Jesus is not coming for an untrained, naive bride. He wants her to be full of His oil (anointed). He wants His bride/wife to have undergone the pruning and maturation process as the Song of Solomon shows us.
The young bride is very selfish and self-centered in the beginning chapters of the book….When her “self” has been crucified through many dark nights of the soul, she leans on her beloved. That has become her identity. She no longer acts from her strength. He now acts through her. They are one.
She captures His vision and desires to be a true help meet to him. She wants to come alongside Him in the fields, villages, vineyards, etc. because she is ready to reign as His queen–she is ready to share His throne–she is ready to see His Kingdom come and be established.
Awaken brides of His bridal company. There is much more depth to gain from your intimate relationship with Him. Let Him waltz you more and more into Himself.
Lost in His music and arms today,
Linda
Amen to everything going on here! We agree with you Holy Spirit. We join ourselves to You, in one mind, with one heart to see and do all that is in Your Divine Will. Jesus is Lord!
Amen and Amen….Let’s launch out into the deep leaning on our beloved! Much love to ya’ll.
Me
Check this video out on Forgiveness, it is very powerful:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iv50xrsFNdU
Shirley C.
Please check out this radio show on Blog Talk Radio regarding the inner healing of a friend of ours who was healed of suicidal thoughts this past Friday! God is so good in His ministry of restoration in the healing of depression that leads to suicidal thoughts in the dark night;
Inner Healing Show:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/WSCIRO/2009/06/14/Faith-Talks-Live-Prayer-with-Dr-Shirl-Surrender
Be Blessed,
Shirley C.
To Cynthea of Namibia: many years ago one of my friends had a dream of John Paul teaching and working in the depths of the ocean; indeed, deep speaks to deep! Those depths of the Spirit are so nourishing and satisfying! I was breathing in a beautiful spicy fragrance as I was reading the blog tonight. I am keenly aware that this time of the year is the time of graduation: everywhere I look another group of some type is celebrating its graduates. Transitions do end; we do indeed grow to another level and graduate. Some of us (smile) do feel as if we are dying on the way. I hear that’s the point!
Hi John Paul,
I just found your blog last night and have read through it all. My name is also John Paul and I am a missionary to Thailand who is in major transition. I have only been in the country with my family for 3 months, but we have spent over a full year in the process of uprooting, training, and moving. Before this time I was in a major time of the “dark night of the soul until I began feeling the nest become unsettled and the Lord Jesus calling me on. I thought that once I arrived here that I would have arrived! ha ha…This is just the beginning I now see.
A new process has begun in my life and it seems that the “heat” of this time is allowing new things to surface so that I might be cleansed and become that vessel fit for the Master’s good use. So, thanks for writing these great entries. They have been an encouragement to me. I look forward to reading more. Thanks for your prayers and the prayers of my fellow readers.
BTW: I follow you on Twitter now as well.
To nameless,
Thanks for sharing the word the vet gave you about physical war, it applies so well to the spiritual battle we are in.
Barb
Neh. 8: 9,10
…This day is holy unto the Lord your God; mourn not, nor weep. for all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law. Then he said unto them, go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
POW! RIGHT IN THE PUSS: A KO! SOUL IS DOWN AND SPIRIT IS DECLARED THE WINNER!!! YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ARISE, SHINE, FOR YOUR LIGHT HAS COME, AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD IS RISEN UPON YOU!
2 corinth. 6:4-10
Can anyone relate to this passage?
Tumult: The commotion, disturbance, agitation of a multitude, usually accompanied by a great noise or confusion of voices.
Lonnnnnnnggggggggggg Suffffeeeeerrrrrriiiiiinnnggggg!!!!!!!
STAY STILL AND LET ME DO THIS! IT NEEDDS TO BE DONE! LOVE, DAD
Thanks Jon Paul for the teaching on the tabernacle. With this insight and carrying the glory in us ” We are the temple” why would we still be bound to worship in a building - like the Jews did in the synagogues? I am called out to walk in the wilderness as God is doing new things in me now after 30 yrs of serving in “church”- what a challenge to lose all that baggage in the desert place! Are there any fellow wanderers whom God has called out there?
One of those, though the pain is terrible, hear, your daughter is for you, she feels your anguish. you must not let her. She feels more helpless then you do!. Your love is what she needs and she will be satisfied. As she feels dads love only. only dont burden her with helplessness, it crushes her. as a defensive linemen in football is only set to get the quarter back, so set all your might to let her know as your spirit attacks her spirit with love. this will overwhem her spirit and she will be comforted. She senses the anguish.Not fair to her. Love only! spirit to spirt, Jesus Bless You!
Thank you Shirley C.
These are people I love, so forgiveness is very easy. I want to know why there is a fear in the people of God regarding the New Age. I really don’t get it. It reminds me of someone who uses the argument, ‘Well God told me to do….’ and it’s apparant that what they are doing is destructive and not in line with scripture. One cannot argue the ‘New Age’ accusation. The argument stops there once the red flag is raised. I really don’t want to study the New Age (neither am I tempted to) to find out a good answer to this.
Another facet of this dilemma is that these are people who speak in tongues and believe God can do miracles in people’s lives. They draw the line, however, at seeking God in what we might call the prophetic. I think this blog could possibly be offensive to my friends citing the ‘New Age’ argument. I would like to understand how seeing and hearing God (and touching Him) is frightening or offensive to believers. I would like to know what to say to that argument, not just hear, ‘New Age!’ and have all conversation shut down. My heart motivation is to have passion for Him and create that hunger in others.
Thanks again ShirleyC -Maryann
To Maryann:
Its only through the power (dunamis) of God’s Love acting through the worship corporately can one get inspired and finally hear what the Father’s saying and see what the doing from heaven through the move of the Holy Spirit. Then on an individual level, a revelation of the Father’s love for them and mankind. This can only come about through prayer. So pray for them that may truly see and hear what the spirit is saying specifically to that group and beyond. You are in a very good position because of your heart of deep compassion and concern.
Much Love and Blessings!
Shirley C.
I remember in one of JPJ’s posts he said that with each room of Mystery there is a test or trial.
This week I had a fiery trial, for me most of the rooms of mystery have been a test, but in this latest room it has been a trial and I learned something about me. I found a deep peace, “an anchor feeling”, like nothing I have ever felt, and I feel I handled this trial better then I ever could have before, I ran to Yahweh.
I also recall in one of JPJ’s teachings he said “You think you are going there for this, but it is really for this.”
Example: When I first went to 101 - The Art of Hearing God Conference I thought I was going to learn how to hear God’s voice, but the Lord sent me to learn for the first time about the Prophetic, AWESOME!
Well, it happened again, I thought I was going to hear a man teach about the Ark of the Covenant (found in the last room of mystery), because he brought a replica of the Ark with him to this particular meeting, but it was not the case. Instead, the Lord gave me confirmation on some things that deal with my future and taught me more on discerning spirits. This is not what I thought I was going there for, but it was God’s agenda (a good thing).
During this week of chaotic events I have felt the presence of God, I can feel Him breathe on me, this is the best way to describe it.
The man who brought the Ark replica with him said that there were many priests that went into the tabernacle, but only one could enter the Holy of Hollies.
I understand what you mean JPJ when you say, “If you don’t give up.” When a Navy soldier trains to become a Navy SEAL he can ring the bell anytime and quit.
Well, I don’t want to ring the bell, I want to become a Spiritual Navy SEAL.
Blessings,
cm
Take a look at Jesus. Take a look at the church today. Though we behave like Jesus, yet inwardly our hearts are not like Jesus. I believe I am right to say that most elite believers are not willing to be celebrities on earth today, yet in the heaven hereafter they clamor for all kinds of glories and heavenly rewards. Some have made heavenly exaltation and rewards their god and they constantly wear ‘materialistic and glory hounding glasses’ even when they see the kingdom and when they read the scriptures. They do not know they have erred. Tell me is the kingdom a kingdom of celebrities like the world?
But let me introduce a higher way, that you may know Jesus’ heart.
In a simplified sense… the hope of Glory…it is a reflection of God because it is HIS glory, HIS brightness, its speaks of Him. The hope of greatness…it is for the purpose of being a greater BLESSER to all with more authority. Mansion…what good is it if its not for you to enjoy when you freely visit, it is build for you to enjoy? Since in heaven we neither sleep or behave like the earth. Rewards…may it become blessings to all as was the case with Jesus sharing His inheritance or you may think with one sharing one’s money today. Story…it is for the benefit of the creation who will read it which is by God’s workmanship in my life and to HIS glory. Exaltation…do rejoice yes, yet also its okay thanks but no thanks, God is also glorified through my exaltation.
You have fallen from love, the bond of perfection in your quest for exaltation which will work to your great humiliation in that Day. Jesus’ motivation was love. Think about it. Next time when God promises a reward, may you have the heart of Jesus. The same God who rejoiced in His exaltation was also willing to give up all His glory. Our hearts need HIS balance.
To nameless and others,
This thread is more about theology and who God is than it is about my daughter. I am one of those who hears what you are supposed to do to have a relationship with God, tries it, and continuously fails to see that ‘formula’ work. Just do this…just do that…just meditate on His word…just be still in His presence… just just just. Have you ever tried to witness to those people? They don’t get responses back from God. They don’t feel, hear, or see things. After a while they give up and look at you like your mentally ill. There is no other explanation when they’ve tried everything and there is a loving God up there who will not interact with them.
The question is how to continue to relate to God in these circumstances. I’ve also witnessed to people who look at all the suffering in the world or lose someone close to them for reasons other than natural death and they say, ‘loving God?’ I have heard out of one mouth ‘if he is that way I don’t want to have anything to do with a God like that.’
People have been trying to resolve the incongruities in the Bible and in God’s actions for as long as the issue has been open. These days it seems we focus on a God of love, or healing, or relationship, or whatever the topic of the day is. Then, things fall apart theologically if anything happens outside that framework. Thing is, God did some really hard to understand things in the Bible. When the framework we’ve created in our mind falls apart what will we do? How do we rebuild that structure? I believe I can say with some surety that not all people rebuild a theological grid work. They build a completely new grid to view the world on.
So yes, my grid work is torn down and I am left with the decision to try to have a blind faith…or… It is like believing the world is round having never seen a picture from space, never having traveled around the globe, or understanding the math to prove it. Can you believe purely on the words of others? Many of you who read and write here are blessed with many spiritual experiences…blessed.
Yes, I know there are a million and one testimonies of miracles and healings out there but I still hold a completely limp, struggling to breath child , who may only give a faint smile once a day or every few days…who seizures from 5-20 times an hour awake and asleep even while on multiple anticonvulsants and a somewhat dangerous anticonvulsant diet of almost all fat…who tries to sleep and can rarely if ever get to REM sleep…who takes hours a day to feed and often throws it back up. There are only so many times one can call out to God before…
If he is not a healing God now, what if he is not a God of provision tomorrow (I don’t know if I will have work in a couple of months)? What if he is not a God of protection a week from now? The grid is messed up and we are left with the decision for blind trust or to give up. I am just one of those… How will you answer your neighbors when they become ‘one of those?’
my wife and I are homeless,but not without our King who also does not have a place to lay his head. At time its hard, very hard because every ounce of us is calling out for comfort. Yet we bring back our mind to the truth ,Lo, I am with you always! I feel it is a glorious design, because I am sick of me and my ways! We who are long time soldiers as Shirley C mentioned, over 30 years in our LORD encourage all of our young brothers and sisters to keep keeping on. sometime it feels like you are being ripped out of yourself and you are, but you are being filled also. Remember its not trial to trial, but Glory To Glory! All of you, none of God, less of you, more of God, none of you, All of God! He will not leave you comfortless,He will come to you. We are entering perilous times so put on strength and fear none of those things in you path. For all things are for your sakes.Bye my brothers and my sisters!
Dear Sherie,
My husband and I are now wandering with no certain dwelling place. The first couple of days I was identifying with the Lord. I did not realize that he had dirt in his hair until I experienced it. Now we are in the 19th day of no home and almost constant rain. We have to believe in miracles every moment. We realize that without adversity, we could not grow. And we are being trained to deal with the problems coming upon this planet. Having to live without necessities means living constantly in the supernatural. The angelic host are present and provide well for us. But I had to learn not to go around in fear seeking to provide for myself. But to go in the power of the Holy Spirit, and the love and mercy of Jesus, and still care for others even share the little bits of morsels that I have. And I see how far I need to grow. It is difficult to give away one dollar when all we have is three dollars. But the Lord has not only provided, but he knows all my favorite things and provides very, very well. Even indulges us! He is Awesome! Look at the birds of the air, they neither sow nor reap and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more precious than they? Dying to self, bearing your crosses, accepting thorns in the flesh, all come with walking in the miraculous and not for the feint of heart. My whole life has been training for this moment in time. It is soo awesome to be in this close connection to my creator! He has designed a whole little town for us in this last day ministry. I encourage all of you that the Lord is speaking to, to let go of the “church” scene and walk with the Lord out into the wilderness that you will not be neglected about one single thing. Underneath you are the Everlasting Arms! It is both marvelous and has its moments of dread! But if we learn to suffer with him and we know his presence is with us it is a great comfort. Bless all of you. Be brave dear souls. Times will be very difficult for us all. But Jesus has not forgotten us. His love and devotion to us will sustain us. And we will rejoice with him for eternity. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. Fixed! Amen! Love, Holly
John 5:1 After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Aramaic called Bethesda, which has five roofed colonnades. 3 In these lay a multitude of invalids—blind, lame, and paralyzed. 5 One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” 7 The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” 8 Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” 9 And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked.
Luke 8:43 And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and though she had spent all her living on physicians, she could not be healed by anyone. 44 She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, and immediately her discharge of blood ceased. 45 And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the crowds surround you and are pressing in on you!” 46 But Jesus said, “Someone touched me, for I perceive that power has gone out from me.” 47 And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed.
Luke 7:18 The disciples of John reported all these things to him. And John, 19 calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 20 And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?’” 21 In that hour he healed many people of diseases and plagues and evil spirits, and on many who were blind he bestowed sight. 22 And he answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. 23 And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.”
Jeremiah 1:4 Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying,5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”
Beloveds, let us consider HIM who is WORTHY of all blessings, honor, glory,power,and praise; whose Kingdom reigns forevermore…Revelation 21
One of those,
Don’t you dare give up!
You are a breath away from your miracle! Stand, Stand, Stand! I once was waiting on the Lord and had nothing to eat or drink for three days, and I knew the verse that God would supply my needs. But there I was being stretched like a rubber band. Then suddenly I freaked out and began to scream at God. “Thank you God, thank you very much. And your going to supply all my needs, right? Well, I’m hungry!” As I said the words, “I’m hungry”, I looked to my right, and there was a woman walking towards me with a glass of milk, and a brown paper bag. She said, “I’ve been watching you for three days. Your probably hungry.” Ohhhh, I felt like a jerk screaming at God. But he was ahead of me.
One of those, hang on! Your concern about witnessing to people, is going to be filled with power. Shortly!
To All!
This morning we attended mass. It is difficult to go there because we walked out of that church when we were kids. In fact, my husband was raised in a convent with five hundred kids and five hundred catholic girls becoming nuns whether they liked it or not. And much abuse was endured by many including my husband. He endured severe childhood trauma from which the Lord is now healing him. But there is a young priest there who just celebrated one year as a priest. And he really loves Jesus. And we have found that they are preaching a true gospel. I feel Jesus would have us overlook any incorrect doctrine. We don’t throw the baby out with the bath water. And plus, once a guy told me that in Vietnam when your being shot at, “There are no Atheists in foxholes.” And we are kind of in that position. We are constantly looking for what is of the Lord. And we have found that a little bit of truth is in everyone who is of faith. Even the witches have respect for the creation and the herbs that God has made to heal us. So we are learning to be tolerant of others.
One thing to keep in perspective is that we are eternal beings having a physical experience. Our lives here are merely a twinkling of the eye in light of eternity. And what appears to be aweful suffering in the physical is meant for eternal glory. We must trust in the One who made everything. He is pure Light, pure Love, and pure Sanctity. We are encapsulated in his Love in the Spirit. Our flesh is just that, flesh! We are not to put any faith in our flesh, but are called to deny, and die to our flesh. All the suffering we see in the world is only the soul in exile waiting till the fulfillment of all things is in place. All is Well Oh my Soul, All is safe in the precious, loving arms of our Heavenly Father and his most precious Son, Jesus! Rest in this knowledge! Let his most precious Peace heal you of the stress that you are enduring. He is the Prince of Peace! Enter in through the narrow gate. Only you and Jesus. Even if it hurts your flesh, know that your suffering has an eternal weight of glory. Blessed by his Holy Name, Lord Jesus. King Eternal, Immortal, Invinsible. Blessings, Holly
Hey everybody,
Its hard to predict how the church is going to fair this storm that is coming if they don’t get the proper lessons. Jesus said to look at the birds of the air, look at the flowers, to take no thought for our lives. And to follow him. Even Solomon said to go to the ant, you sluggard. How are you going to learn these important lessons unless you actually lay your head upon the ground and watch the birds, the flowers, and the ants? I am learning all day, every day how to turn on a dime when I have to. It is called endurance, stamina, patience. Are you prepared for the days that are coming upon the church? By the sound of these blogs I have my doubts. Traveling all over the country to hear a man is not going to get you ready. You need to hear God! And you can only be alone with him and his creation to hear him. This is important for the church. Don’t be finding out about your corns, and your bunions and that your ankle was probably broken all those times you twisted it after the tribulation starts. You won’t make it. Start the training now. Go hiking or camping or doing anything but staying in four walls trying to hide from this storm that is about to hit us. Find out your weaknesses and gain as much strength as you can. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Doing morning stretch exercises. But concentrate on what will elevate the Spirit, not the flesh. All these protein shakes and running programs are good to strengthen the flesh, but not the Spirit. Try going out for a week-end with out any of the green stuff. MONEY! And see what you are going to do. This is for real what is going on in the economy. What do you think? Its going to get better? Prophets and pastors reading this, you need to be honest with your flocks and tell them that its time. Some good role models for you to learn from are the past heroes who survived Slavery in America. I’m learning a lot from Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth. Two ex-slaves who God used mightily one hundred fifty years ago. They got through it. It will take every ounce of imagination, ingenuity, innovativeness, and everything else you got to get through this. So start practicing. I’m saying this in love. Not to scare you. Our Heavenly Father feeds us and takes care of us. Not the Almighty Dollar! Please listen to that still small voice inside of you. Pray and ask God for the strength to work through your fears and then start facing them. God’s strength be with you all good people. Love, Holly
I am homeless, I am writing from a library, at this time I am last,and yet I am walking ,talking, waiting, sleeping with Jesus, growth by diminish, not all are grown in this way, but think of what would happen to someone who must look without ceasing to the hand of the Lord by faith in this fashion. Faith being excercized like this is being developed into a fierce warrior! Looking to our King, I saw Caleb, Joshua, and David standing in front of me at one of my breaking points, with the look in their eyes saying, what are you going to do? Immediately my heart said, I am standing with you! The last shall be first! Oh, that I may know what is the fellowship of his sufferings! At the library I sought out what I could, about the Holocaust. What I saw was suffering, real suffering, and how could I possibly think that I was suffering in comparessing! Even the verse, Go to the ant thou sluggard is alive because I sleep on the ground and have them walk all over me. What I am saying is, put on strenght oh Jerusalem, Come up higher by going lower. Rend your hearts. So what, you have been given some knowledge. Do you have love? Can you Identify in an instant with someone who is mourning and not with putting forth Gods knowledge? Knowedge puffet up, love edifies! Let as many as be thus minded, do. don’t sings songs to a heavy heart. Weep with them that weep, because if I am hungry and thirsty I don’t care a bit how much of Gods word you know!
“A Special Father’s Day Broadcast on Community Living”
In this special Father’s Day Broadcast, the host and cohost talk about the need to establish live in communities of faith as a way to raise up strong christian families as it relates to the ministry of Fatherhood in this world of darkness. Enjoy & Happy Father’s Day, John Paul and all the other Dads on this blog!
Shirley C.
Hello everyone,
I want to encourage you to read about Soujourner Truth, and Harriet Tubman, strong women of faith. True heroes in the history of our nation. Hold their banners high and let the whole world know of these two true heroes. Who in spite of all obstacles, held on to faith. We are moving on as the town brass has ordered. But not without learning much in the way of true military genius. Its amazing these human bodies, they can endure a whole lot, way more than I ever imagined or thought. Could this be what God had in mind with that verse? Maybe he’s going to make us superheroes? Well, we’ll just have to wait till the next stop on the journey to see. The angels are coming for us and we will be traveling so not sure when we will get back to you guys, take care. Trust! Love, Holly
To deny ones self is to deny your understanding, your reasoning, your ingenuity. All of our self. While some think that deny self means candy and cake, not so. It is a faith but it is not blind it sees the promices of God. If Jesus said I will never leave you or forsake you its either the truth or its a lie. Its only our lack, not the Word being a lie. Consider it all joy brethren, when you fall into divers temptations. Knowing this that the trial of you faith worketh patiance. Ask the LORD for a vision to help you hold on to his promises
“Therefore, brethren having boldness to enter the Holiestby the blood of Jesus by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is His flesh.
And having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the DAY approaching.” Heb. 10:19-25
In the OT we read about the law on servants. If a servant loved his master and did not wish to be set free—his master could pierce his ear with an awl. He would then be identified as a “love” slave to serve his master forever.
As we grow in God’s wisdom and gain more understanding, we please God when we become His “love” slaves.
It is easy and sometimes carnal to want to become independent. We see examples throughout the Bible and see many results of independent natures going astray.
When we are lost inside His love nature (spirit) then we are looking for places to serve. We want to fulfill the greatest commandments of love.
God is not doing away with the church. In this hour He is wanting the church to mature and overcome in all areas that we fall short in. He wants His church to mature–Be His bride–His body.
He wants the church (people) to be His candlestick. He wants us to go past being gifted to becoming His dwelling place. He wants His seven Spirits to take up residence inside us: The Spirit of the Lord—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding—the Spirit of counsel and might—the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. (Isa. 11:1-3)
Let us allow Him to overcome us as we overcome. We need the friction from each other to polish us so we glisten…
When He tries us, we will come forth as gold….
His loving servant and friend,
Linda
Some tips…
1. Sharing your faith is not by mere words alone, but more so by your good conduct. The lost are turned off from the faith because the believers fail in their conduct. Just be real.
2. There is an ease to intercede when you are riding in a car; use the chance to pray. Otherwise you may not find yourself interceding at all even all day long.
3. Jesus could do no mighty work because of unbelief, why not believe for the world that everyday thousands are healed all over the world, hundreds of thousands are getting saved, millions of miracles etc…
4. Everyday the devil comes for you, why do you not bind him down? You should do so every morning and everyday.
Get back to writing, John
We live in extraordinary times please check this video out. It seems that John Paul Jackson and some of the nameless prophets of the catholic church have similar messages but from different perspectives, Ummmmm can the Lord do that? I think so, cause He’s God
http://media.embracinghope.tv/secure/PlayerMP4.jsp?meetingName=Episode1&type=3
He knows every hair on our head He knows every word before we speak it He is familiar with it all we are poured out wine and hot bread from the oven of adversity He is the forth man in the fire fire fall down fire fall down fire fall down feed my lambs feed my sheep feed my sheep when ever you have given a drink of water to one of these you have given it to me drink the new wine now is the day of healing now is the day of freedom from…receive my joy now peace now be filled and give it away now Shalom
“You will be successful one day and fail the next. But if you do not quit, you always win and in the process you will learn to abide under the shadow of the Almighty!”
You have no idea how much this encourages me. I am so here. I’m glad to know I’m right where I should be in the process, but I am really looking forward to moving on to the next phase.
Early this morning, writing in my journal, I pulled out the thick pile of papers that I had stuffed in the back of my journal. Lo and behold what did I find among them, but a copy of “The Shepherds Rod” from 2007.
When I began reading, point number eleven, I couldn’t help but notice that it was highlighted and underlined with brackets on the edge of the paragraph and five stars – hello!?
Here is what it says: “In this season God’s people must learn to deal with UNRESOLVED ANGER, over past failures and disappointments …if we are harboring ANGER for any reason, we must take that to THE CROSS and ask for the GRACE, to be RELEASED FROM IT’S GRIP – so that our discernment will be clear and unimpeded.”
I never claimed to be the sharpest tack in the box or the brightest bulb in the pack, and I know that I have been a little slow to grasp some things… but I think I’m finally getting it!
Do I get it now??? I must kill and push aside the soul’s cry to get its way. I must bury the soul’s desire to know why. I must lay to rest the struggle against His ways. Push aside all. Be still and only trust?
On the tomb stone of the soul the epitaph must read “Here lies one of those who trusts.”
It was only a test
If anything has happened on this journey, my senses have become sharpened and I have become much more aware of things that cannot be seen – for instance.
Recently I started listening to a teaching series on CD. As I was walking down the street holding my CD player – it was knocked out of my hand by some invisible force! It hit the ground so hard that it broke. I could not get it to work again.
A few days later the same thing happened with my MP3 player. I was walking down the street listening to some worship music and it was hit out of my hand by an invisible force and went flying! The ear bud jack just pulled right out.
In both instances I could feel myself getting angry. In this “moment of choice” I decided to call for help – In Jesus’ Name – Immediately the intense feeling of anger subsided. It was only a test, but I passed it this time.
Some tips
Praise destroys the plans of darkness. Why do you not take responsibility over your neighborhood? Once some pastors organize a conference with worship, the Satanists were put into jeopardy, their plans were totally ruined. The tabernacle of David (praise and intercession) pushes back the influences of darkness in the land. Perhaps someone wanted to murder his neighbor and you destroyed the plans of darkness with praise. But remember the main focus is still the Lord in praise.
Diligently obeying the Lord’s voice and commandments bring rain on the land. Deut 28. Don’t your land needs refreshment, revival, moves of the Spirit? Obey God and the heavens above and the earth beneath will be blessed for your sake. This translates into great blessings for all.
Your obedience to God’s voice and commandments makes Him turn His ear to the house of God, in times of adversity, you sure need His listening ear on your church when the storms come or whenever as usual with whatever prayer in the church. 2 Chr 6,7 Do you have His ear in your church? If He hears you, you have your petitions answered.
“There is a river whose streams, shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of God.”
Psalm 46:4
I spent the afternoon meditating and worshiping the Lord swinging in the shade at the river as I watched two of my grandchildren swimming.
I gazed out over the water and watched the continual movement of the current. Isn’t God creative!?!—He has so many diverse prophetic streams.
Some of us put our feet in one ripple–others dive deep into the depths to discover treasure that is not seen by the average person.
We need to discover the current that God wants us to flow in during the season that we find ourselves in that will carry us into another realm of glory.
Catch your wave!!!
Linda
12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand,
Measured heaven with a span
And calculated the dust of the earth in a measure?
Weighed the mountains in scales
And the hills in a balance?
13 Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD,
Or as His counselor has taught Him?
14 With whom did He take counsel, and who instructed Him,
And taught Him in the path of justice?
Who taught Him knowledge,
And showed Him the way of understanding?
15 Behold, the nations are as a drop in a bucket,
And are counted as the small dust on the scales;
Look, He lifts up the isles as a very little thing.
16 And Lebanon is not sufficient to burn,
Nor its beasts sufficient for a burnt offering.
17 All nations before Him are as nothing,
And they are counted by Him less than nothing and worthless.
Is 40:12-17
Diamonds, gold, silver and precious gems are generally useless and worthless stones. But because they are highly esteemed, they became expensive. I don’t want to go into the material characteristics of these stones. But generally they are just mere stones.
Similarly mankind is worthless and counted as nothing in the context of God’s eye view, we are only valued by God because of Christ. Apart from the vine, we are nothing. Christ gave us value, purpose and a future. By right who are we, this planet of inhabitants, that God should be mindful of us, think of us, or even visit us?
Our righteousness and worship cannot please Him, it is Christ that pleases the Father Yahweh. Our days are like vapor that disappears in a split moment, and we are grasshoppers in His sight. He bounds the waters in His garments, even heaven and the highest heavens cannot contain Him, what more the house we build Him. We are too foolish in our greatest wisdom and too weak in our greatest strength, in truth humbly He came and became the Son of Man.
Is it any pleasure to the Almighty that you are righteous? Or is it gain to Him that you make your ways blameless? Job 22:3
This all sounds so unachievable……somehow when you get into day to day reality, life really hurts…you cry out to God and He keeps silent…
you keep saying praying but what do you do when your prayers are not answered? in Proverbs it says hope deferred makes the heart sick….why does God want us to grovel?
Father,
More of you and less of me, forgive us when we fail to see the treasures that you have invested in us to see your Kingdom come and your will done on earth as it is in heaven. Help us to persevere in all diligence even when we fail, to get up through Christ which strengthens us.
If the result of dealing with “unresolved anger” means having “clear and unimpeded discernment” I could not help but ask myself the question. What does it mean to have “clear discernment?” So, I did some word studies and here is what I discovered. (Quotes from: “The Shepherd’s Rod” 2007 – Bob Jones)
When God appeared to Solomon in a dream at Gibeon, telling him to ask for whatever he wanted, Solomon asked for “a discerning heart”, so that he could have wisdom to rule God’s people.
In Deuteronomy 6:4 we find the words “Hear O Israel.” It’s interesting that we find this same Hebrew word, “Shema” used here, in I Kings 3:9. Where Solomon asked God to give him - literally “a ‘hearing’ heart” – one that “could discern both good and evil”
Most of the cross references that I found in regards to “discernment” all referred to Hebrews 5:14. Indicating that greater discernment is an issue of maturity in understanding - that gives us the ability to “discern between good and evil.” I can hear the echo of the voice of Wisdom from the book of Proverbs; “In all your getting, get understanding” – Prov. 4:7
Two other important references that seemed to stand out to me: one is found in Hebrews 4:12 referring to the Word itself and how it “’discerns’ the thoughts and intents of our heart” and the other reference was in regards to Communion, found in I Corinthians 11:29. This is a reference to partaking of the bread and the cup of the Lord’s Supper unworthily, by not “discerning, “ what they represent; it also means “to evaluate carefully.”
To sum up what I have learned, everything seems to indicate that if we are to have “clear discernment.” It is simply suggesting, that when we deal with any “unresolved issues of the heart” (anger, bitterness, unforgiveness etc.) we would then be able to “hear” much more clearly what God is trying to communicate to us. In the process we will be able to “discern between what is good and evil”- and what is God!”
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“Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Command the children of Israel that they bring pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to make the lamps burn continually.” Lev. 24:1
John Paul, I speak for all the “priests” who blog with you…Have you mixed up all the specific ingredients for that fresh batch of anointing oil? We would like to know the results of your findings! Can you share your knowledge with all of us any time in the near future???
No excuses! (ha!ha!)
Linda
I am just coming on board to “coffee talk.” I was searching for some of your teachings John Paul…on dream interpretation but I also love teachings on the tabernacle so I have printed off your entire blog writings and plan to use them for my bedside reading…where I put the things I am excited to read!
Finding you and what the Lord has given to you to share is timely for me. It was confirmed to me to seek out your teachings so here I am…starving and thirsting for whatever the Lord plans to feed and fill me up with…thanks for your obediance dear saint!
By the way…I’m a coffee girl! Make mine with vanilla caramel creamer…LOL.
Honor the blibical fathers and mothers, honor the church fathers and mothers, honor then the Lord will send you outpourings.
Hello John Paul, whoo whee! I am just about caught up and I think it took almost 7 months to do so. I wanted to tell you that I have wept over reading many parts of this blog because they resonate within me this great tenderness of our great God! You are one great father and I hope you are encouraged today.
Argh….How I love to drink from the ancient wells. I also love when i have encounters with fire people!!!
John Paul when i feast on the word of God and eat and drink at the table of coffee talk there is a fire in my bones.
I love.. God’s play on words. A few years ago while in the word doing a study on the altar a rain drop of revelation was released.
Not only is the altar a place of sacrifice and prayer but also a place where we come to be “altered”. I could go on more but I wont.
Just a very big thank you all the ways from NEW ZEALAND.
We are have a prophetic name”NEW ZEALAND”a land of fire people filled with HIS ZEAL.
We are also called AOTEAROA which in maori means “LAND OF THE LONG WHITE CLOUD”.Where does God abide? I believe we live under HIS cloud anointing.
From one heart on fire to another “THANK YOU”!
It seems like God is separating the soul and the spirit. God is teaching me that we can’t go on feelings or emotions, the word is truth and it doesn’t always have emotions behind it. It just is. Just like God is, I AM.