Sometimes He Calms the Storm ...

 

   

Sometimes He Calms His Children

Psalm 23 - Commentary (reference)

(A Psalm of David.) 
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

   [The shepherd lives with his flock and is everything to it: guide, physician and protector.” (Kidner)]

   [I shall not want has two meanings. 
            All my needs are supplied by the Lord, my shepherd and 
            I decide not to desire more than the Lord, my shepherd, gives] 

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

   [Sheep will not rest until four conditions are taken care of. Rest comes because the shepherd has dealt with fear, friction, flies, and famine.]

    [Green pastures and still waters: the images are rich with the sense of comfort, care, and rest.]

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

     [In Hebrew the words ‘restores my soul’ can mean ‘brings me to repentance’ (or conversion).(Boice)]

     [The Lord will guide us to what we need]

     [They are thenceforth led in ‘the path of righteousness’; in the way of holy obedience. Obstructions are removed; they are strengthened, to walk and run in the paths of God’s commandments. (Horne)]

     [To display the glory of his grace, and not on account of any merit in me. God’s motives of conduct towards the children of men are derived from the perfections and goodness of his own nature.” (Clarke)] 
 
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

     [David used this powerful phrase to speak of some kind of dark, fearful experience. It is an imprecise phrase, yet its poetry makes perfect sense]

     [It is a valley, not a mountaintop. It is the shadow of death - not the substance of death itself.]

     [Death in its substance has been removed, and only the shadow of it remains…. Nobody is afraid of a shadow, for a shadow cannot stop a man’s pathway even for a moment. The shadow of a dog cannot bite; the shadow of a sword cannot kill; the shadow of death cannot destroy us. (Spurgeon)]

      [It has an inexpressibly delightful application to the dying; but it is for the living, too…. The words are not in the future tense, and therefore are not reserved for a distant moment. (Spurgeon)]

     [Kidner notes: The rod (a cudgel worn at the belt) and staff (to walk with, and to round up the flock) were the shepherd’s weapon and implement: the former for defence (cf. 1 Samuel 17:35), and the latter for control – since discipline is security.]
 
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

     [Here the second allegory begins. A magnificent banquet is provided by a most liberal and benevolent host; who has not only the bounty to feed me, but power to protect me; and, though surrounded by enemies, I sit down to this table with confidence, knowing that I shall feast in perfect security. (Clarke)]

     [David gives a beautiful picture: table suggests bounty; prepare suggests foresight and care; before me suggests the personal connection.]

     [When a soldier is in the presence of his enemies, if he eats at all he snatches a hasty meal, and away he hastens to the fight. But observe: ‘Thou preparest a table,’ just as a servant does when she unfolds the damask cloth and displays the ornaments of the feast on an ordinary peaceful occasion. Nothing is hurried, there is no confusion, no disturbance, the enemy is at the door and yet God prepares a table, and the Christian sits down and eats as if everything were in perfect peace (Spurgeon)]

     [Beloved, I will ask you now a question. How would it be with you if God had filled your cup in proportion to your faith? How much would you have had in your cup? (Spurgeon)] 

     [Those that have this happiness must carry their cup upright, and see that it overflows into their poor brethren’s emptier vessels. (Trapp)] 
 
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

     [Mercy is the covenant-word rendered ‘steadfast love’ elsewhere…. Together with goodness it suggests the steady kindness and support that one can count on in the family or between firm friends.” (Kidner)]

     [These twin guardian angels (goodness and mercy) will always be with me at my back and my beck. Just as when great princes go abroad they must not go unattended, so it is with the believer. (Spurgeon)] 

     [In the Old Testament world, to eat and drink at someone’s table created a bond of mutual loyalty, and could be the culminated token of a covenant…. So to be God’s guest is to be more than an acquaintance, invited for a day. It is to live with Him. (Kidner)]

     [While I am here I will be a child at home with my God; the whole world shall be his house to me; and when I ascend into the upper chamber I shall not change my company, nor even change the house; I shall only go to dwell in the upper story of the house of the Lord for ever. (Spurgeon)] 

The 23rd Psalm, having been well used at funerals for my entire life, is so much MORE than that! Study it to see how rich it is for the LIVING!


Maranatha,
Anna

"Be Thou My Vision" by Eden's Bridge

This hymn has called to my Irish heart since the first I heard it! I am half Irish on my Mom's side and these words light a spiritual fire in my heart whenever I hear it and sing it in worship! 

I researched a little of its history and added a link if you want to know more. If you choose to listen, may you be blessed with God's majesty and presence with full knowledge in your heart that our High King of Heaven loves and protects us always!

The following is found in the video description:

Fire glowed against the visage of St. Patrick as he lit yet another candle in the dark Irish churchyard on Slane Hill. The fire reminded him of Christ, Redeemer and light of his life. Opposite the churchyard was Tara, where resided the pagan High King Lóe­gaire-- the man who outlawed candles in Ireland. But it was the eve of Easter, 433 A.D. and St. Patrick was determined to glorify God that night. And thus began the hymn. 

"Therefore, on that day when I was rebuked, as I have just mentioned, I saw in a vision of the night a document before my face, without honour, and meanwhile I heard a divine prophecy, saying to me: 'We have seen with displeasure the face of the chosen one divested of name.' And he did not say 'You have seen with displeasure', but 'We have seen with displeasure' (as if He included Himself) . He said then: 'He who touches you, touches the apple of my eye.'"-- Saint Patrick 

This is very true for me, especially with this hymn!

"Sometimes hymn singing invites us to connect with the saints who have gone before. Such is the case with the famous Irish hymn, "Be Thou my vision." The original poem, found in two Irish manuscripts in the library of the Royal Irish Academy, may be dated as early as the 8th century." Reference: https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-be-thou-my-vision

Maranatha,

Anna

Lock down! Loneliness and Anger ...

What have we read in scriptures about loneliness and anger? How do we handle our emotions during these challenging times?

If you believe for one second that we will return to life as we knew it, I hope you will rethink that. The timing of all that is going on is purposeful and has been planned. God knows the plan. He knows their playbook. Nothing can  happen except God allows it. That alone should take away any and all fear. We are His children and we are protected by Him. Does it mean we will have an easy walk? No, I don't know of any Faith walk that is easy. I do know we walk them successfully by leaning on Jesus and His strength! 

During these times of isolation:  whether you are elderly or one with a compromised immune system, or both, the hardest thing to endure is the loneliness. It seems others have jobs, families, friends, someone with whom they can converse and share to make the days easier to live through. Sadly, that is not the case for everyone. Those that find themselves shut in with no contact with the outside world can become very emotional. Sad, lonely, depressed, then perhaps anger will step in.

When you find yourself in this situation and your emotions seem to be getting the best of you, give it to God. All of it! Not just a piece of it ... every speck of it! If it tries to come back, give it all to Him again. Keep doing that until you are no longer influenced by these negative emotions and you will find that you have taken every thought captive and followed Jesus in your thinking and your ways. The transformation time depends on you! No one else! You are accountable for your thoughts and actions! 

What makes me so sure that this is sound advice? Because I am walking it as we speak. I am lonely and isolated. I find myself getting sad and depressed. I know this brings anger to my heart. I also know that as I ask Jesus for help, he is faithful to let me lean on his strength! The following prayers help me. I hope they will be a help to you, as well!

Loneliness
"Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:20

Lord, I thank You that You are my true companion -- that I am never alone. You have assigned angels to watch over and protect me. You have given me Your Holy Spirit and promised that You are with me always, even to the very end of the age. What a privilege that You call me Your friend. As we travel this road of life together, on city sidewalks, suburban roads, or country paths, I enjoy Your presence, Lord. Help me never to forget Your presence. 

Anger
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Ephesians 4:51

Lord, I am so mad! I am angry, and I need Your help. Why do things have to go so wrong? I need to do something with this heated emotion -- and I choose to give You my anger and bitterness, Lord. Help me be rid of it. Redeem the confusion and bring peace to what seems so out of control. Free me from resentment and blame. Show me my part in this conflict as You speak to the heart of my adversary. I need your healing and peace, Lord.

"From Power Prayers for Women, published by Barbour Publishing Inc., used by permission.

Maranatha,
Anna

Protect The Children...

fast and pray over them every day!

Whatever children God places on your heart, known or unknown to you, we can all do our part as His Children to protect the Innocents. Sometimes we want to do something but it is hard to get started. I am sharing scriptures to pray over children for protection. This is not an exhaustive list, God led me to these so I am sharing.

Click for more info: praying protection over our children

Fasting increases the power of our prayers. Here are some Scriptural references that will help you in covering your children in prayers of protection:

Genesis 28:15 Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.

Psalm 18: 2,3 The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 91: 1,2, 10 -12 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.

Psalm 138:7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,you preserve my life;
you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.

Isaiah 43:1-3 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God,  the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

I hope and pray this is a blessing to all who read these words and put them into practice as God puts a burden for children on their hearts.

Maranatha,
Anna

Noblesville West Middle School ...

are you asking WHERE was GOD?  

I have personal experience to share with you about what God was doing with myself and another of His children on the morning of Noblesville West Middle School shooting. The scene below started a few minutes previous to the shooting, 911 got the call at 9:06 AM and the situation, as we know, was resolved quickly.
God's 6 Minute Timing: 40 second shooter ID, shooter contained, victims transported

My day started out as it usually does. Get up. Take my meds & insulins. Put on the Whole Armor of God while in the shower. Calling out and lifting up in prayer those He puts on my heart. Praying a Hedge of Protection and asking for Travel Mercies for the day. Finish getting ready and then leave for work.

All of this starts through Messenger:

--AMW At 8:30 AM I sent out a beautiful picture of an owl taken the previous day at my place of employment by a coworker

++SYW 8:46 AM 'How beautiful'

--AMW 8:46 AM 'God makes BEAUTIFUL animals! Luv ur post this morning too'  

Click to read--> Change The Way You Think

++SYW 8:54 AM 'Thank you... working and praying on some stuff with CBW and some of her friends this summer... praying a lot this morning Mrs Anita... crying out to God for our kids nowadays... my heart is so heavy for what they know and accept now... 6th grade and drinking and drugs and sex... I’m starting a get together in July for girls in middle school to be in prayer, study together, and talk to them about these things. And how to handle them when brought to them. How to be strong in their faith... and so much more... it’s tearing me apart'

++SYW 8:54 AM Bout to go start our morning devotion.. I’ll talk to you later. Just be praying for us please. I love you so much! 😘

--AMW 8:55 AM You r in God's perfect timing luv u too. TTYL

Please notice how preparation for God to use us started before He called upon us. We both have a relationship with Jesus and both want to draw closer to Him. After reading SYW teaching post on Facebook, and then sharing the owl with her and others, when SYW shared the burden God had on her heart ... Holy Spirit made it my heart's burden at that moment as well and called me to start PRAYING IN THE SPIRIT IMMEDIATELY!!!

It was only later, when the unction to pray so intensely was lifted, that I heard about the school shooting. It was then I realized that God had me and other prayer warriors actively taking up prayer and shouting the spiritual battle cry to protect the children from evil. That lifted up the teacher who was willing and gave him strength and power to act quickly, in the face of the threat, to protect the children. 

Matthew 19:14 (KJV)

But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

When I am called to prayer this way, I do not ask God any details. It isn't my place to ask ... it does not matter Who? What? Why? When? Where? All that matters is God wants to use me for His Purposes Right NOW ... I trust him and I obey in that moment. It is important you understand that this does not make me in any way better than any other of His children. It is my walk with Him that I willing allow Him to direct. This relationship with Him is available to you, if you want it. Count the cost ... Jesus paid a price for us we couldn't pay ... I lay down my life for the one who died for me, willingly.

Everyone needs to hear what God can do when we seek His Will and the desires of His heart until we make them our will and our desires. When we walk with Him, we are instant in season and out of season. When Holy Spirit calls for heartfelt prayer, we do not hesitate but immediately obey.

Even though we have kicked Him out of our schools, our nation, and our lives ... God was right where He has always been ... Yahushua is waiting for us with His arms open wide in LOVE so please turn to Him so He can welcome us home. Be aware, time is running out ... soon it will be forever too late to choose Jesus,  and you will have chosen eternity and the eternal allegiance that was never meant for you. 

Maranatha,

Anna

Watchman ...

will you be faithful to sound the alarm?!!

I am sharing what the Lord has called me to walk in. As a watchman, He has charged me with a deeper walk than I ever knew before in July 2015, when He gave me a new name of Anna. He alone guides my steps: my feet would never have started or made this journey without Him calling and walking beside me. This journey was started in 1968, although I did not know it then. All of my days, past and future, are recorded in Heaven in the book of my life.

My heart is heavy for the lost and the lukewarm. We are so far away from where God intended us to be. We have bought into the lies of satan. We have made our material wealth and worldly reputation of more importance than our One True God. We are not following His Ten Commandments as our path to becoming more like Jesus.

What has happened to the watchmen that have been called? Have you sold your calling out for silver, gold, material things, accolades of man? Did you think you would be popular when you give the WARNING messages the Lord has given you to shout?! This is not negotiable ... it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the Living God! I stand apart from you who have walked away. Lord, please continue to hold me, strengthen me, love me and give me messages for these end times. It is a privilege to walk in these last days ... I need no approval of man. In fact, if man approves of me ... I know I will be on the wrong road! If they hated Jesus, surely they will hate His true followers.

Click the link to read: The Unveiling
Excerpts: 
"I am unveiling mysteries of My Kingdom and sharing more of My heart than ever before. Subtle moves of My Spirit you have experienced in the past will become much more powerful and a greater part of your reality here." 
"The yoke upon the world now is one offered by the prince of darkness and its burden no one can carry, nor was anyone meant to carry it. My yoke is easy and My burden is light, so let go My children of all of it. It is time. This world is not your home, so walk away from that last bit you have clung to. I have it all in hand."

Daniel 11:32 And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.

The enemy of your soul is continually roaring and seeking you out. There is no protection apart from Jesus!

Maranatha,
Anna

Yes, You CAN Hear from God ...

If you put God first and are still, quiet, and wait at His feet for His Word and Wisdom.

This is the song I was led to for this blog post. Click the link to listen --> Word of God Speak by Mercy Me 

As an example: this is the Word that I received from the Lord. Psalm 27, Psalm 90, Psalm 147. I accept His Will & His Way for my life. I lay it down for His use each day. Lord, help me to die to myself each moment of each day. I ask to be an Instrument in your hands, in whatever way you choose. I love you, Lord, with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength! Thank You, Abba, In Jesus name. Amen.

If you do not follow the Lord and hear His directions to you, the coming days of darkness will terrify you!

Maranatha,
Anna

********
Reference verses for the three Psalms given to me:

Psalm 27 (KJV)
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
4 One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in his temple.
5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.
7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
8 When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek.
9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.
11 Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
14 Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.

Psalm 90 (KJV)
1 Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.
2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
3 Thou turnest man to destruction; and sayest, Return, ye children of men.
4 For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.
5 Thou carriest them away as with a flood; they are as a sleep: in the morning they are like grass which groweth up.
6 In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.
7 For we are consumed by thine anger, and by thy wrath are we troubled.
8 Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, our secret sins in the light of thy countenance.
9 For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend our years as a tale that is told.
10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
11 Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath.
12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
13 Return, O Lord, how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants.
14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
15 Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil.
16 Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their children.
17 And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.

Psalm 147 (KJV)
1 Praise ye the Lord: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.
2 The Lord doth build up Jerusalem: he gathereth together the outcasts of Israel.
3 He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.
4 He telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by their names.
5 Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.
6 The Lord lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground.
7 Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:
8 Who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth, who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains.
9 He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry.
10 He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man.
11 The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.
12 Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise thy God, O Zion.
13 For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates; he hath blessed thy children within thee.
14 He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat.
15 He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly.
16 He giveth snow like wool: he scattereth the hoarfrost like ashes.
17 He casteth forth his ice like morsels: who can stand before his cold?
18 He sendeth out his word, and melteth them: he causeth his wind to blow, and the waters flow.
19 He sheweth his word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel.
20 He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the Lord.

Boldly Speaking What God Has Given

... I will follow my Master's leading. I will listen to no other, as I know HIS voice! I do not fear man or ridicule: I will continue to seek the Lord's counsel and strive to walk with Him, each step as He directs me, daily!

God has graciously supplied wisdom in what I am to share here: "our thoughts are not His thoughts, our ways are not His ways [Isaiah 55:8-9 KJV]" ... you should humbly ask Him for His wisdom and be prepared to 'put a hand over your mouth' when He replies [Job 40 KJV].

Can Salvation Be Lost (link)

 "We are not taking about salvation by works here, nor are we abusing the precious Grace of God. The devil has a plan to knock you and your salvation out. If you don’t watch yourself, you will fall into his trap. It is not by works you are saved, but you better be ready that you don’t go back to your old sinful ways. You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. (Matt 7) Well who can get in????? “And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible” Mark 10, Matthew 19
Why did Paul bother to keep returning to people to get them back on the right path?
Why did the Lord end the bible with these warnings: Wake up! Come back to you first Love! Turn from your indifference! You tolerate wrong teaching! Repent!"

If we are always saved, once saved, what’s the point of the bible’s warnings?

The following is a prayer from the link above. I will pray it as I am called as an intercessor/prayer warrior. You can pray it as well, God inhabits the Praises of His People. Our Prayers are a Sweet Fragrance in Heaven:

Dear Lord,
I pray for those suffering through this, may you restore them Lord. Break the binds that have held them down, release the captives and set them free. Protect them from all evil and give them wisdom and understanding. Give them a new heart and renew a right spirit within them. Give them a desire to seek you and love you above all things. Release the prisoners and those who are about to perish. Restore the lost and help us gather them back in. Save us, restore our sight so we can see. Make the path ahead plain for us and bring those who have fallen away -back into your everlasting arms. In Jesus name, we pray, Amen

The Lord has provided the information here. I strongly recommend that you click on the link and see what God tells you. Yes, He DOES still speak today! To those who sit and wait on Him ... He gives Wisdom liberally when we ask!

Maranatha,
Anna

Do Not Disrespect Others ...

To disrespect someone is to disrespect God. It does not please God when we disrespect his creation. We are created in God's image. We are in the wrong when we call people names or labels and use words that ultimately hurt them. 

2 Kings 2:23-24
He went up from there to Bethel, and while he was going up on the way, some small boys came out of the city and jeered at him, saying, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” And he turned around, and when he saw them, he cursed them in the name of the Lord. And two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys.
Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Ephesians 5:4
Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.

Sadly, many times 'humor' is a tool to malign someone. How can you know if you are disrespecting someone? Do your words build someone up or tear them down? 

Some Examples of tearing down:

Do your words encourage / highlight / support the 'You ain't from around here, are ya?" mentality?

Rather than calling attention to differences, God is pleased when we build up / edify others. Not tear them down by saying things that promote isolation / non-acceptance.

Have you heard someone joke about people who are 'bipolar' ...  that they should just let go of one pole? How disrespectful to make light of this condition!!!

Have you ever taken a serious medical condition, proceeded to trivialize it and (in a joking tone - so that makes it okay - right?), then proceeded to say you could call the person experiencing these medical symptoms a 'dizzy blonde'?

Humor has no place when dealing with medical issues. 

Instead of feeling valued, the person, who is the butt of the joke, instead feels isolated and disparaged.

Ministry in song to show us the importance of words and to lift our thoughts and inspire us to pure words lifting up others:

Click to listen-->    Speak Life - TobyMac        Words by Hawk Nelson

If your first reaction to this post is 'the person that was hurt has a problem, not me': Please meditate on your words and actions. Are they Positive? Prone to being Negative? What can you do to make a change for the good?

Maranatha,
Anna

Do you feel the urgency?!

So many watchmen are giving warnings so that others can hear and not be left behind. There is also an outpouring of His Spirit ...

Eden, 6 yrs old, interpreting a Word of Tongues

Mark 10:15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.

Matthew 18:2-4
2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

In these final moments, for truly Jesus could come for us at any second, are you saved, secure, doing the work of the Father, sharing His Love? Are you walking with Jesus, in The Spirit, totally sold out to God? Where are your treasures ... if they are in this world - you need to repent before God. For where your treasure is, there your heart is also!

I caution you not to make light of the Holy Spirit nor those on the front lines of this War for Souls. Truly, you do not know their walk with God, what He has called them to do, what they do in their prayer closets! Now is the time to lift up in prayer and stand in the gap - side by side - with those God has asked to love and obey Him. Not in man's ways .. but walking each step in the path Jesus shows to each of His Children.

Will You Pass

I do pray for hearts to be touched with the Saving Grace of God and acceptance of Jesus' sacrifice before the door is forever closed!
Anna

Stay Focused ...

and remain in the Father's will for you! Please remember, to live victoriously ... never give up!              

No matter how my life is going - some days good / some days bad - I find that if I stop a moment, think on positive things, my attitude will improve. Yesterday was one of those days - but I didn't stop - I don't think I even slowed down in my thought process. Instead, I just kept flowing and wallowing in the 'river of despondency' which, trust me on this, has a distinct odor! It isn't pleasing - to me, to others, and especially not to the Lord!

What am I doing differently today? I am looking for the positives and not focusing on the negatives. If a thought comes along that could bring me down - I refuse to dwell on it. Instead, I give it to God and ask for a replacement thought  - from Him! I want to walk the path He has for me and the JOY of the LORD is my strength! I ask Holy Spirit to bring scriptures to my mind that will firm up my foundation with The Word. So many come to mind at that point. You know, I don't have very many scriptures memorized, but I am glad Holy Spirit gives them to me. So here is a paraphrased list of what I have heard in my spirit today:

• I obediently put on the full armor of God - this morning and every morning
• I will stand therefore - in the Lord and the Power of His Might
• I prayed a hedge of protection - asking Father to protect
• No weapon formed against me will prosper
• I will DELIGHT in the Lord and TRUST in Him 
• I will not allow myself to grow weary - but ask God to renew my heart daily

This is an ongoing conversation, so yes there are others and there will be others as the day progresses. One of the things I have been taught - and am still learning - is to be consistent in my walk and in my prayer life. Am I successful in this every day? Sadly, no, but I won't stay there. I won't stay down. I raise my hand and ask God to take hold of me and please pull me up!
If you find yourself down today. Despondent. Fearful. Speaking Words of death more than Words of LIFE ... I encourage you to turn to the author and finisher of our Faith! His everlasting love will bring the sunshine into an otherwise gloomy day! He promised never to leave us or forsake us! God is not a liar!!!

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Trust in the Lord always,
Anna

Come, Lord Jesus

Quickly!!! There are many signs coming into play. 

A huge snake in the church! by faulk600

Not the least of these being the vote to divide the land of Israel - UN 12/23/2016! There is also energy -- high energy -- buffeting our planet. Look at the many earthquakes and the Aurora Borealis (when you see the PINK color, it is VERY deep into our atmosphere).

In case you have not heard, America ABSTAINED from the UN vote to divide the land of Israel: America has ALWAYS stood behind Israel and VETOED anything that was detrimental to them. Dangerous place that Obama put himself AND America in!
Joel 3:2 I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat, and will plead with them there for my people and for my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and parted my land.

Obama allowed the UN to Trample Israel by Israeli News Live

Joel 3

Prophecy Update: Obama's revenge on Israel, Dec. 23, 2016 by Behold Israel

Prophecy Update: Kerry's speech & Bible Prophecy, Dec. 28, 2016 by Behold Israel

Have you seen or heard of this executive order?
Executive Order: Coordinating Efforts to Prepare the Nation for Space Weather Events
Have you wondered why it is even necessary? You might want to do some research to find out what is really going on! There are other places to get up to date information and background. I am providing the following links as a good place to start.

Earth Entering High Energy HelioTail/7.6 Quake by BPEarthWatch

Incoming Proton Burst/Comet Honda Breaking Apart. by BPEarthWatch

5.7 Quakes Striking in Nevada/Shield Pressure by BPEarthWatch

There are so many things going on and change is taking place rapidly. Please take this to the Lord for discernment without delay! Time is of the essence!

Maranatha,
Anna

The Days are EVIL!

The greatest defense in our lives is the PRESENCE of God. Just a little bit of light drives out the darkness. 

Therefore, it is not just rebuking demons that drives them away. It is the manifest presence of Holy Spirit in our lives: showing Himself in holiness and obedience to God. The more we enter His presence, to stay and just minister to Him, He pours out His love in each of us so we can be more like Him.  When we spend time with Jesus in worship, prayer, reading and thinking on His Word, and listening for His voice in our spirit: that is when attacks the enemy has sent against us will be removed.

If you detect that a root of bitterness has formed, [if you feel anger: repent immediately and ask God to remove it right then] it is poison to you. 

Unforgiveness is Poison in Your Heart's Garden ... forgive as you have been forgiven!

Anything done in the darkness will be brought to the light:

Ephesians 5:13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.
John 3:20
Everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come into the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.
Ephesians 5:12
For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.

THE SHELTER OF GOD AGAINST WITCHCRAFT excerpt from book: The Divine Antidote by Francis Frangipane

Excerpt: When the enemy seeks to bring us to a place of strife with one or more people, we must discern this as a plot to keep us all from something good that God intended for us. Thus, when at odds with someone, we must turn quickly to intercession for that specific person. This prayer posture must expand beyond our immediate church relationships and grow into a citywide church concept. If we are to be effective in resisting the enemy, we must corporately become a house of prayer.
Lord, we ask You to grant us the gift of discernment. Forgive us for judging one another and for failing to see the work of the enemy, who seeks to divide us. Father, we submit to the mind of Christ, we ask for His perception, that we would have insight into what You are doing in the church. Lord, we also ask for boldness to defend one another from the voice of suspicion and accusation. Help us, Lord, to pray when we hear a rumor, to stand in the gap when we see a fault, to become a house of prayer for the church in this city. In Jesus name. Amen.

Be blessed and watching for His soon return!
Anna

Pray for His Soldiers ...

every day, as God places them on your heart and your minds.

Pray for His Soldiers this post as a podcast by Anna

Abba, Father, I give you praise for who you are: the Great I AM! Jehovah Nissi, Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah Tsidkenu, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, The Bright and Morning Star!  I am here at your feet, Abba, to stand in the gap and lift up your children to You. I pray for special protection by the Heavenly Host to be round about my sisters and brothers that are working to bring more souls into Your Kingdom. May there be a hedge of protection round about them all, in the shape of a sphere, that nothing from the enemy can get in to harm them in any way. Knowing time is short, the battle is intense but You alone are our strength and comfort. You give us wisdom and your Word directs our steps. Thank you beyond measure for Your Mercy, Love, and Grace! In Jesus Name. Amen!

     I encourage all of you to be obedient to God and take up prayer for each other, especially for His Soldier(s) on the front lines in this spiritual battle. You ARE in this battle, whether you realize it or not! 
     This world is not my home! Although my heart longs to be with my Bridegroom and my Father, Holy Spirit is with me and He leads and guides me each moment of the day to be of service 'His Will. His Way.' Please be encouraged! Do not grow weary and become lukewarm! We are going home, soon and very soon, so let us each finish the race that has been set before us!

Maranatha,
Anna

Who were the prayer warriors in the Bible? 

Prayer warriors are people who are known for regularly interceding on behalf of others before God. To intercede means to come between, so prayer warriors are, in effect, coming between God and the trouble in another person's life.

Prayer warriors are like defense attorneys, appealing to the Higher Court on behalf of their defendants. We're all guilty before God, but God is merciful. Prayer warriors recognize that quality of God's personality and call on Him for intervention.  

The Heart of A Prayer Warrior

The Time Has Come ...

to be faithful to fulfill our purpose!

I am sharing the following prayer, written by Becky Thomas, that it may be a blessing to many others as Holy Spirit leads them to it and touches their hearts.

Dear Heavenly Father, Praise Your Holy Name ... The time has come for Us to fulfill scripture Lord ... show us ... each one of us, what our role is in these last days ... So we can be used at the perfect time and in the best way ... We surrender all to You and want Your Will in our lives. We pray we can be counted worthy to escape what is about to happen but, if we can be used in any way, make us realize what Job is ours personally ... resurrect righteousness in us ... We open the door and invite you in to come and break bread with us ... to pitch your tent with us ... to empower us in knowledge and truth ... engulf us with Your Glory ... as You are The savior to our eyes and ears and heart and mind and souls ... Help us to hear Your instruction in what to do and where to go ... Help us to know the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven ... Because the kingdom of Heaven is at hand ... Help us to be Kingdom Based, Kingdom Focused and Kingdom Bound ... Help us to be Transformed ... Let each one of us Know what You plan for our lives ... So we can be prepared to go forth and do what it is You would have us do! We Trust You Lord that You will show us Your design and purpose for our lives and help us to keep our lives in a constant feeling of delight in You ... Thank You for everything that is a delight and what is true and noble and right and pure and Lovely and admirable because it is these things that are of You and from You and this is why We Love You so much and as always We Pray Let Thy Will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven..in Jesus Name Amen!! by Becky Thomas

Please, Abba, deliver us from evil and we pray your will be done on earth as it is in heaven! In Jesus Mighty Name. Amen!

Maranatha,
Anna

Photo credit: Jennifer Khordi Aug. 2016

In His Perfect Time, God gives messages ...

that, when fit together, form the bigger picture! 
Ezekiel 33:3

This is from Lyne' Rogers Brown 8/12/16:

"Hey Friends, I feel that God wants me to share some things that He has been bombarding me with over the past few days. That sounds more negative than I mean it to, but He has been so consistent in what He is saying that I believe that I am supposed to share. Please read this message prayerfully. I only want you to hear what God is saying, nothing from me. There is both warning and good news. We are NOT to be afraid!! If you read it, please read it to the end.
I have woken up with the same chorus in my head for the past week:
In the eye of the storm, You remain in control
In the middle of the war, You guard my soul
You alone are the anchor, when my sails are torn
Your love surrounds me, in the eye of the storm
I also have been given a multitude of other people's dream to interpret. God has just recently shown me that He has gifted me with the ability to interpret dreams...it used to be just dreams He gave me, but now He is speaking to me in other's dreams too. There are some very common threads that I want to share.
A storm of great proportions is coming...we are actually in the middle of it right now, but the winds are going to be blowing harder in the days ahead. The storm is here because God wants to wake up the church and use the remnant that is now awake to bring many to Himself.
We (His church) are going to have everything we need to make it through tough times ahead, but we are going to see some of this storm before He comes back to get us. He is coming back very soon and we must keep our eyes on Jesus. Do not be afraid when storms hit...we will not be here during the tribulation, but may wonder as we see the increasing winds of this storm.
We need to brace ourselves and be in prayer. I think something significant is going to happen this Fall. I do not know exactly what, but many are getting the same timing in warnings. Many that I respect as being faithful watchmen/women are getting consistent messages with increasing intensity.
Please hear this LOUD and CLEAR. Do not be afraid! We will have EVERYTHING we need if we keep our eyes on Jesus. In the eye of the storm, things are calm and peaceful. Our calm in the midst of the chaos will be what draws others to Christ. The only reason God is allowing the storm to hit while we are still here is to wake up His sleeping church and save many more before the tribulation. Put on your spiritual armor and get ready for battle, but have GREAT COURAGE! We are going home soon!!"

Ryan Stevenson - Eye of the Storm - (with lyrics) (2015)

Wake up! Be ready! Maranatha! Anna