Confidence, Pride, and Humility

There have been a lot of sons and daughters of Yah speaking out lately. It seems that the Spirit is giving them boldness to speak the truth. Now, we also know, this will draw many who will challenge and even scoff  at the words spoken. And that's expected from those who the bible says don't understand spiritual matters because they are trying to understand with a natural mind. But what I have been shocked by are the many professing believers that will roll their eyes and scoff as well.

One thing I have noticed is what the truth will do among believers is separate those who are the "chaff" from the "wheat". There will be a difference in those who are, for whatever reason, lukewarm or not entirely confident in their faith. They may even be hypocritical (putting on the air of religion but living a different life). Sometimes jealousy will creep in and hardened hearts will develop against their own brother or sister in Christ. All the while the other believer is growing spiritually in Christ, gaining more knowledge, insight, boldness, and confidence.

Those are really disheartening actions from a people that should be encouraging Yah's truth - no matter who is speaking it. If Yah said it and it is the truth, so be it. And let all who have ears to hear, hear what the Spirit is saying, right? Unfortunately, it doesn't always work that way. And I believe one reason why is because we have a distorted view of what confidence, pride, and spiritual pride is. And that is what I want to explore in this blog.

Every born again believer will have some confidence and every Spirit filled believer will exhibit some type of boldness. These qualities are not apart from the power of Yah and His Son, but because of the power of Yah and His Son.

Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. 5 Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, 6 who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. - 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him. - 1 John 5:14-15

In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. - Proverbs 14:26

This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. - Ephesians 3:11-12

Indeed, in this case, what once had glory has come to have no glory at all, because of the glory that surpasses it. 11 For if what was being brought to an end came with glory, much more will what is permanent have glory. 12 Since we have such a hope, we are very bold... - 2 Corinthians 3:10-12

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. - 2 Timothy 1:6-7

Confidence in Christ is something that continues to build in the believer. The more they study, pray, go through different trials and temptations, and hear the voice of the Father, the more confident they become. That confidence leads to a boldness and a willingness to do the will of the Father no matter what.

Stephen, the apostle, stood before those who were picking up stones to kill him, looked into heaven and saw Christ at the right hand of the Father. He continued to preach with boldness and fervor even the more until he, with his last breath asked for forgiveness for those stoning him. Those who stoned him more than likely thought he was prideful for speaking the gospel and not conforming to their demands, but it wasn't pride. Stephen knew what he knew and wasn't afraid to share it (Read about Stephen's death in 6 and 7) even unto death.

And that is the confidence that every believer should have. Yah did not give us the spirit of fear! So many times He tells us to be bold, courageous, and to fear and fret not. There is work to do, we are storming the gates of hell, and a soldier in Christ should not be faint of heart.

Now, there will be some that will not understand this confidence. Instead, they will wrongly label this confidence as "spiritual pride" or "pride". However, in studying, I have discovered, there is the overarching "pride" - but within it, two subsets. Pride against Yah and pride against your fellow man. Let's see what the word says about the two types of pride. Yah gives a GREAT definition when He reminds His people in Deuteronomy not to fall into such foolishness.

Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ 18 You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day. - Deuteronomy 8:17-18

Also, great descriptions of pride against fellow men here:

Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished. - Proverbs 16:5

For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. - Galatians 6:3

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. - Romans 12:16

...do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. - Romans 11:18-21 

The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’... - Luke 18:11-12 

 Now, let's explore some verses that show pride against Yah....

“How you are fallen from heaven,O Day Star, (S)son of Dawn! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! 13 You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north; 14 I will ascend above the  heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ - Isaiah 14:12-14

Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?”...4 But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. 5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” - Genesis 3:1,4-5

But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and with his wife's knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? 4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.” 5 When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. - Acts 5:1-5

Do you notice a key difference here? What I have discovered is that there is a vast difference between "fleshly pride"  and "Spiritual pride". Fleshly pride is to esteem or think of yourself more highly than another fellow human being. The bible calls it "puffing yourself up". Today's vernacular may call it "looking down on someone". It is to think you have attained such a high status on your own, under your own "hard work" and power. Fleshly pride is to forget Yah and to believe you have done it all on your own. I have noticed, in my experience, many people who have a lot of "things" whether tangible or intangible, or have (or have begun) to attain status often fall into pride. They forget that at the move of His hand, everything can be taken away, down to their very breath.

But Spiritual pride is something completely different. Spiritual pride is what made Lucifer fall and become satan. Spiritual pride is not to think of yourself more highly than another person, but to think of yourself more highly than Yahweh-God. Spiritual pride is satan inspired. Spiritual pride will keep you from being corrected because - "you know more than Yah" - therefore, you know more than the corrective word someone is trying to bring to you. Spiritual pride will make you make others question the truth of Yah's word - "But, did God really say that?". Spiritual pride will make you think you can get over, pull a fast one, and can outsmart the One that knows and sees all - Yah.

These things are vastly and completely different than confidence and boldness. With confidence and boldness you will:

• Speak the word of Yah
• Correct in the love and Spirit of Yah
• Judge in the righteousness of Yah 
• Stand against sin with the word and guidance of Yah
• Use His gifts for the glory of Yah 

And these things are not prideful or in the least bit Spiritually prideful.

Ok, so what about being humble? Humbleness doesn't mean being "mousy", being a "door mat" to others, debasing ourselves, or "loving someone in their sin".  Our humbleness makes us aware of those who still need salvation and more importantly, it keeps us realizing that we need HIM.

If we are not careful, we will also fall into what is also known as "false humility". False humility is akin to hypocrisy as described in the bible. It has much to do with appearance and image control, rather than substance. Often times, the two (appearance and substance) will contradict each other. We see it often when someone talks down on themselves, or thinks down on themselves as to seem more humble. We hear it with Christians who say things like:

"I'm just a sinner, no better than you"

 "Oh I'm just tryin to make it in..."

"I'm just a worm..."

To that I call HOGWASH! That is not being humble, that is pride clothed as humility. Yah does not call those who belong to Him those things. He calls us things like "ROYAL PRIESTS", "JUDGES OF ANGELS", "RIGHTEOUS", "HEIRS TO THE THRONE OF CHRIST", "SONS AND DAUGHTERS". Yes, He warns us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought - apart from HIM. We can not claim these things on our own, but only through being grafted in by the gift of the sacrifice of Christ. The command to be humble was never meant to be used as a tool to berate ourselves for "humbleness sake". The Father tells us to come boldly to His throne asking for the things of Him. How can we go to a mighty God as "just a worm" or "just a sinner"? How do we fight and overcome a formidable enemy as "just a...."? REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST!

So, these are things that where shown to me as I have been doing some serious reflection. I hope I was able to give you some encouragement. Being born again, you have confidence in Him and the gospel. Speak boldly. Those opposed, both unbelievers and professing believers, will be dealt with by Him. Their opinions don't matter so don't let that shake your faith. The Father says the one who obeys Him and does His will loves Him.

Correcting, judging, teaching, and guiding as long as it is done in truth of Yah and guided by His Spirit, is not being prideful. Remember, the word tells us to correct each other. This means, we will always know more and be able to teach another person in certain areas, just as another will always know more and be able to teach and guide us. Don't reject that. But, be careful lest your knowledge makes you start to think that you know more than Him, committing spiritual pride. Remember, we are nothing apart from Him, but we are everything, and can DO everything with Him...

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." - Philippians 4:13

Things Christians Say...(That Are Demonically Inspired) Part 5 of 5

At last, we come to the 5th and final thing, in this series, that Christians say that are demonically inspired. I had no intention on having five parts to this series. I was going to stop at four. But as I was writing the first blog, I got into a conversation with a professing believer about an opinion she was trying to pass off as truth and in turn using that opinion to dictate how the Spirit should have used a person in a particular way. This opinion lead me to try and help her see the truth to her error, but the correction wasn't accepted. In fact, she actually blocked me from her Facebook page and deleted all of my comments. I am not telling you all this to "whine" - but to warn you all to be very careful of three things the Father showed me that came out of this situation.

1. Opinions are just that, opinions. And opinions are fine until you decide to make that opinion (your own thoughts, feelings, and wishes) truth (facts, and God's word) while trying to make others abide by your opinion.
2. Don't let your need to be "right" and your emotions get in the way of true, godly, and loving correction. Many people say "it's not what you say, but how you say it". But the truth of the matter is as the word says "truth offends". One can give truth in the gentlest way possible, and for those who have an issue either with the messenger or with their own ego, it will still make them mad. It is one who seeks truth and wants to be righteous that will accept the truth (not opinion) with gratefulness and seek the Father to change.
3. It is ok to disagree. But don't suppress truth. There is a verse in Romans 1 that says: "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth."   It also says in 1 Corinthians 2:12-13 "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, 13 which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words." In this case, deleting the truth so that all that stood was opinion passed off as truth showed a lack of maturity and wisdom. But also is deceiving those who will eventually read that stat with no biblical basis. The secular world would call this "Information Control" - only showing what you want shown as to have a favorable outcome. But, the Father calls suppressing truth wicked, unrighteous, and ungodly. She, as well as others, who read our conversation, and chose to not speak truth but chose to stay quiet or unify and applaud over something false will have to answer.

So, what happened that spurned me to write this blog? This one thing may seem so benign, but in actuality, it has major spiritual implications. This demonically inspired thought is "Stop giving the devil glory." Or, it is said by taking scripture out of context (which is what happened in this case) "Stop giving the devil place". 

In my experience, this thought process usually comes about from well meaning Christians that only want to think and speak about the "good things of God". They usually get upset when sin or the enemy schemes are pointed out - or done in a way that makes them upset. And I get that, but it is faulty thinking based on scripture taken out of context that will lead many astray.

Before I get into the faulty thinking and the scripture out of context, I want to point out one thing. In the bible, we are compared to soldiers in Ephesians 6:11-18 and 2 Timothy 2:3-4. You will also find a reference that Yah makes comparing Ezekiel to a "Watchman on the Wall" in Ezekiel 33.

Now, anyone who has served in the U.S. military knows these truths - know your rank, know your superior, and know your enemy. In times of war, they do not just focus solely on their General or

other superiors. The time that they have spent with them training has passed. The time they spent with them getting their orders have passed. In war, they are now focused on their enemy. They may have spent time studying the enemy - their tricks, schemes, tactics, stations so that they can be prepared for and warn their fellow soldiers of seen or unseen threats. It would be negligent for a soldier to go into war and say "I don't want to focus on the enemy...let's just think about our General!". Would you agree?

The concept of not focusing on the devil and giving him "place" is derived from this verse taken out of context:

Neither give place to the devil. - Ephesians 4:27 (KJV)

What is done here is called eisegesis, or "twisting scripture". Twisting scripture is done when someone chooses a scripture, usually out of context and partially quoted, to support an opinion they have or to try and justify their actions. The person pretty much makes up their own interpretation of what the verse means. We see that with the "don't judge" movement, or a very popular "touch not my anointed" that some use to protect their pastors or leaders who are being called out on sin. Well, in our conversation, this scripture was twisted because the true context is something different:

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. - Ephesians 4:22-32

The verse in context is strictly talking about a born again believer's conduct. Verse 27 specifically is giving warning to not become so angry that you sin - thereby "giving the devil place". Cross referenced, it is the same warning that Yah gave Cain in the garden before he murdered his brother. It is not talking about giving the devil "glory" or "place" in your or other's lives for exposing him and his schemes. In fact, if we continue seeking scripture, we see several places that contradict this frame of thinking:

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. -Ephesians 5:11-12

Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. - John 7:24

For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party. They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach. One of the Cretans, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons. This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith. - Titus 1:10-13

If I say to the wicked, ‘You shall surely die,’ and you give him no warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way, in order to save his life, that wicked person shall die for his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand. But if you warn the wicked, and he does not turn from his wickedness, or from his wicked way, he shall die for his iniquity, but you will have delivered your soul. - Ezekiel 3:18-19 (also see Ezekiel 33)

Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. - Isaiah 58:1

Now, we have clearly seen that the word gives us instruction to expose evil. So, let's tackle why this line of thinking of not exposing for fear of giving the devil glory is demonically inspired. To say that exposing him and evil isn't something we should do is to call Yah and His word a liar:

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Also, to make this claim that we would be glorifying satan is to say that we are giving him the place that Yah only holds in His people. That is nothing more than what the enemy would want. But, we know Yah will not share His glory or throne with anyone or anything else:

I am the LORD, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another, Nor My praise to graven images. - Isaiah 42:8

You shall have no other gods before me. - Exodus 20:3

Now, let's use some quick and simple logic. Why would Yah tell us to expose satan, stand against his schemes and warn others if He knew in turn it would cause us to give satan glory, honor, and "a place"? I'll let you think on that one a little bit.

Be careful of what you learn from people and their opinions. I pray the Father speaks to your heart and you either start or continue to expose evil and tell the truth how the Holy Spirit leads you.

...so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. - Ephesians 4:14-16

Things Christians Say...(That Are Demonically Inspired) Part 4 of 5

Be tolerant because I am tolerant said the Lord
 -Things God Never Said

Here we are in part four talking about things Christians say that are demonically inspired. "Be Tolerant...and loving!!" has been zooming around "Christian circles" at enormous speed lately.

I began doing my biblical research for this blog earlier today. I started gathering, researching, and rechecking contexts of scriptures that were coming to mind. As I was researching scripture, a link came up. Out of curiosity, I clicked to see what this person's thoughts were about this subject. I began to read and found myself nodding in agreement. Please keep in mind, I do NOT endorse the site from which this writing is found, nor do I fully endorse the author as I have not properly and completely vetted either of them. However, I can say that I agree with what is written in this particular paper.

This write up is all that I would have said and maybe even a little bit more. It is very concise and if you read it through the eyes of the Spirit, easy to understand. So, instead of recreating the wheel, I'd like to share this write up with you - on "Tolerance" as the enemy of our souls would love to do nothing more than inspire us to overlook truth and sin in order to "keep the peace".

What then has become of your blessedness? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have gouged out your eyes and given them to me. 16 Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? - Galatians 4:15-16

A Biblical Perspective On Tolerance by Rebecca S. May

Part 1  Part 2  Part 3

Things Christians Say...(That Are Demonically Inspired) Part 3 of 5

Onward to part 3! If you'd like to catch up, you can find part 1 here and part 2 here.

You know what else well meaning Christians say that is demonically inspired? "QUIT JUDGING!!" and if you really want to get down right demonic, add "We ALL have fallen short of God's glory and are sinners!"...and if you seriously want to feel the fire add "Only God can judge me. He knows my heart."

As this tolerance movement goes forward full steam ahead, these cries get louder and louder. It is very unfortunate that many in "the church" have allowed the world to influence how they view judging. Yah, His Son, and His Spirit should always be our influence. This judging/tolerance movement has been very well crafted by satan. For He knows that those in the first resurrection will have the honor to judge angels and the world. We'll talk more about that later. But first, let's get to the root of the problem. Why do many Christians carry the demonic thought that we aren't suppose to judge? I think it starts with the false humbleness that has been taught over time that says "we all are sinners". I did a full write up called "Why I Am Not A Sinner" as a guest on my husband's blog, you can find that here.

The cliff notes of this blog write up is this - many people use this claim to avoid being "cleansed from unrighteousness" as described in 1 John 1:9. Using this claim of "everyone is a sinner" is something used to pacify the mind and make people - both Christians and unbelievers alike - feel ok in their sin. It creates an attitude of expectancy of sinning.  We take on the mind set that if we do sin, it's no big deal - we all do it. But the truth of the matter is, it IS a big deal. Those who sin DON'T know Him and are going to be cast to Hell.

For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. - Hebrews 10:26

No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. - 1 John 3:6

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. - Galatians 5:19-21

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ - Matthew 7:21-23

Do you see what the enemy of our souls is tricking many into doing? He is tricking them into giving up their right to eternal life. By making people believe there is no chance for righteousness because we are all sinners, he keeps them in perpetual sin. Now follow me here - those who are in perpetual sin are also in perpetual guilt....and therefore don't feel fit to judge another. I honestly don't know one person who understands they are no longer a sinner that feels guilt about judging righteously or skirts around judging a matter. Many of those who will not judge righteously on a matter and make excuses/avoids judging, in my experience either still live by the Law of Moses that condemns (read a great book on that here), or believes the lie that they are sinners.

Now, let's look at scripture about judging, The first one we need to investigate is the one that is often thrown around by both Christians and unbelievers alike. Just putting those two groups together should alert you that the claim is a lie. Unbelievers can not spiritually discern spiritual things - therefore as the word says - can not understand the Word of God....but I

“Judge not, that you be not judged..." Matthew 7:1

Twisted scripture. This is the first thing that many shout when someone points out sin. But, did you know there was more to this verse, and this is not what Yahshua was teaching us in this verse?

“Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. 3 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. - Matthew 7:1-5

Do you understand now? Christ was not telling us not to judge, but not to judge and be a hypocrite about it. We can not judge someone in a sin that we ourselves are committing. For in the same way we are judging them, that same treatment should be given to us because we are doing the same thing. Christ is urging us to come out of that sin before we start pointing at others doing the sin we are in.

Let's look at another response thrown as a result of judging. "Only God can judge me!"

Now, I really love the meme posted to the right. Many make this claim, but really don't understand the ramifications of what they are saying. However, before I go on, I do want to share this truth with you - it will not be God Yahweh who judges us, but His Son.

The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, 31 because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” - Acts 17:30-31

The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, 23 that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. 24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. - John 5:22-24

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. - 2 Corinthians 5:10

 Many would wonder - "why should that scare me?" Because of this verse right here:

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. - Hebrews 4:15

Yahweh-God is holy. He has NEVER sinned, nor knew sin. He has never been tempted or had to overcome temptation. So to be fair in His judgement, He is sending His Son to judge. His only Son that for a very short while on the cross took on the sin of the world, and because while He was fully God, He was also fully human experienced temptations of this world. This will make all judgement fair and just. Several times over, the word talks about us "overcoming" sin and temptation. Why? Because Christ as human set an example and left us a blueprint for how to do so. And because He was successful, He expects all who follow Him to be successful. This should scare us at judgement time. To stand before one that overcame what you went through - there will be NO excuses you can use.

Last, let's talk about "He knows my heart". You are correct. He does, and in its sinful and rebellious condition, it disgusts Him. Which is Yah offers in His word to change it:

The heart is deceitful above all things,and desperately sick; who can understand it? 10“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind,to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” - Jeremiah 17:9-10

And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, 20 that they may walk in my statutes and keep my rules and obey them. And they shall be my people, and I will be their God. - Ezekiel 11:19-20

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. - 2 Corinthians 5:17

Many of these sound bites used are directly opposed to Yah's word. The enemy uses them to make us ok with sin. But as we see, these things are not ok. His plan is to draw you further and further away from Yah into hell...with him. He can not stand to bear the thought of you being an heir to the throne that HE wants. What better way to get back at the One who kicked him out than to destroy the creation that is the only one "in His likeness". Don't fall for it...it's a trap.

So what shall we say about this judging thing? I talked about it once before in a blog. But here are a few pointers:

1. Yes the righteous are to judge with righteous judgement
2. We can not be a hypocrite (doing the same sin) when judging
3. This is an honor given to the righteous as we will also judge angels

Stop letting the enemy of your soul teach you that "not judging" is godly and that we are not suppose to do it. The Father gave His children this privilege along with His wisdom and discernment to do so. Practice now, for we will one day, with our King judge with Him - even the angels....

2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? 3 Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life! - 1 Corinthians 6:2-3

Part 1  Part 2

Hypocrites and Unrighteous Judgement

In a world where so much evil is being called good, and so much good is being called evil, there has to be at least one who will stand up and tell the truth. The truth is not relative, it is absolutely absolute. There can only be one truth - not many, otherwise, it's not the truth. What it is, is  just an opinion.

However, in our telling the truth, we must be careful. Telling the truth comes with huge responsibilities. For in telling the truth, we must rightly be able to understand and judge a situation. The word calls it "righteous judgement". Yes, all of the Father's children are called to judge and do it righteously.

If we are going to judge righteously, then we must also not be hypocritical. This blog is meant to help us understand the difference between judging unrighteously and being a hypocrite. Just like in another blog on the proper context of an apology, we got the understanding that being "offended" is not the same as having "hurt feelings". Here, let us understand that unrighteous judgement is not the same as being hypocriitcal, but they both must be avoided.

The definition for hypocracy can be found to state:

hy·poc·ri·sy

həˈpäkrəsē/

noun, plural hypocrisies.

1.a pretense of having a virtuous character, moral or religious beliefs or principles, etc., that one does not really possess.

2.a pretense of having some desirable or publicly approved attitude.

3.an act or instance of hypocrisy.

In scripture hypocrisy is defined as Strong's Concordance:

H2610; moral filth, i.e. wickedness:—hypocrisy.

G5271; acting under a feigned part, i.e. (figuratively) deceit ("hypocrisy"):—condemnation, dissimulation, hypocrisy.

It is no coincidence that underlying meaning of hypocrisy is defined both in the secular and in the bible as something that is fake. Let's take a closer look at the examples of what Christ gives as hypocrisy:

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. - Matt 7:15 

You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’” - Matt 15:7-9 

Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. - Matt 6:1 

Early the next morning, Jesus was going back to the city. He was very hungry. He saw a fig tree beside the road and went to get a fig from it. But there were no figs on the tree. There were only leaves. So Jesus said to the tree, “You will never again produce fruit!” The tree immediately dried up and died. - Matthew 21:18-19

These few examples gives us a deeper meaning into what hypocrisy is. It is an outward appearance that doesn't match the inner. It is the "clean on the outside, but dirty on the inside" cup that Christ spoke of once before. To be a hypocrite is to put on a show. To have a religious spirit. One that looks squeaky clean and operable in the kingdom, but in reality is bearing no fruit, is dirty, and isn't redeemed.

Hypocrites will be quick to point out faults and sins while still in those same faults and sins. Hypocrites will want to be seen doing righteous things, but not want to be actually cleansed from their unrighteousness. Hypocrites will try to shed light while living in darkness. Hypocrites will believe they have the keys to the kingdom, but ultimately be told in the end "Away from Me worker of iniquity, I never knew you!"

Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God? - Romans 2:3

Because hypocrites are more concerned with their appearance than true salvation, repentance is foreign to them. Repentance will require them to leave the life they want hidden, behind. Repentance will require them to face the reality that the comfort of life they live in is riddled with sin and unrighteousness. They subconsciously push repentance out of mind by allowing themselves to think they have "checked all the boxes" and are "good" with the Lord.

Now, let us take a look at what unrighteous judgement entails. To do so, we need to first look at two definitions:

Unrighteous

1. not righteous :  sinful, wicked

2. unjust, unmerited

Judgment

1. an act or instance of judging.

2. the ability to judge, make a decision, or form an opinion objectively, authoritatively, and wisely, especially in matters affecting action; good sense; discretion:

From these definitions, we see that unrighteous judgement is to make a decision or form an opinion wickedly and in an unjust manner. So, the question becomes, how does one do it the right way? A glimpse into Deuteronomy chapter 1 will give us some historical hints. The criteria set long ago for someone to be able to judge righteously was that they be:

"...wise, understanding, and experienced men..." - v. 13

And then they must:

16"Hear the cases between your brothers, and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the alien who is with him. 17 You shall not be partial in judgment. You shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not be intimidated by anyone, for the judgment is God's. And the case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.

Now, let's look to some New Testament words of wisdom:

The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. - 1 Cor 2:15

Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment. - John 7:24

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1John 4:1

For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? - 1 Cor 5:12 

So, let's put it all together. If one is to judge righteously, they must first have the Spirit dwelling in them. The Spirit of Yah is what gives us wisdom, discernment, understanding and knowledge (Proverbs 2:6). This Spirit knows the mind of Yahweh, and He is able to give us the mind of Christ. A mind clothed in righteousness, therefore, we will be able to understand matters and think clearly when judging them.

We also have to be willing to hear matters. When we are trying to decide on a matter in front of us we can not have our ears closed. In other words, we have to take the time for the matters to be heard and not rush to judgement right away. Many already go in with a preconceived notion of what an outcome should be for a situation. Or they already have a preconceived idea because of who is involved whether or not something is true. So, when the situation comes along, they don't even want to hear what needs to be said or done. The decision is already made and there is no need to seek the truth of the matter. That is not good judgement.

From there, we are not to be impressed with outter appearances or make a "partial" judgement (based on favoritism) and let them influence our decision. This one trips up a lot of people. Many times, we let our past experiences, both good and bad, with a person/people, situation effect our decision making. The outter appearance is taken into consideration instead of seeking the truth of the matter. We see it happen often. A person would rather believe someone they consider "knowledgeable", "upstanding", "well mannered", "well dressed", "well spoken", "sympathetic", and give them the benefit of the doubt. This is one trick often used in the courtroom with a defendant - they make them "look" presentable and humble. Their defenders know that if that same person looked like a "thug" and was "loud" those who are in charge of judging would quickly dismiss what they had to say.

I am going to talk about this one a little more in-depth because it is a huge failure point for many - especially in Christ. It is this that keeps many from being able to use discernment and seek truth about false teachers/pastors. It is this that keeps many from hearing the pleas of other brothers and sisters in Christ warning them that something isn't right and to pay attention. Many wolves have entered into the assemblies of those who profess Christ because they LOOK like a sheep. Yet no one has decided to check what exactly is under the wool (Matthew 7:15).

That is just one example. Let's give a "worldly" example that fueled this particular blog. Just about everyone is aware of the Planned Parenthood debacle that went down this week. They were discovered to have sold aborted baby parts to those who would pay for them. All of a sudden, everyone is in an uproar. However, there were several warnings from those who were able to see past the "good" this organization was supposedly doing. Many only chose to look at the fact that they were touted for "helping women" pushing aside that they also performed abortions. Now, that they found out that these same aborted babies are being sold for profit, now this organization is evil and needs to be boycotted and defunded. Perfect example of judging based on appearances. This organization put on the face of one that "helps" and people chose to turn their heads to the warnings... until now.

Listen, we can not continue to judge this way. Many will be judged falsely (good or bad) as deception grows. Many will be able to put on the good "public" face while having a wicked heart. Just as many will be deemed wicked that have a good and godly heart. We must learn to go deeper than what we think we see, which leads me to...

Testing the spirit of a person. This is also called in the bible "checking the fruit" or, knowing people by their fruit. Yahshua (Jesus) tells us this is how we will be able to know false teachers and also how we will know those who belong to Him. The Spirit in us should be able to bear witness of those who follow Him. Many people will profess Him with their mouth, but their hearts will be far from them. All we have to do is watch, pray, listen and let people speak. It will become evident which spirit they follow. By understanding which spirit is operating, you will definitely be able to judge in a right manner.

We must be willing to judge without being intimidated. The world has done a great job at stifling those who stand for truth of what is "good and bad". Many yell "don't judge!!" But who is better to judge situations and call out evil than one who is connected to the One who tells us what good and evil is? We can not be intimidated by those who can push their weight around and keep us silent, or worse yet try to "make" us rule/judge in their favor.

Last, we must understand our limitations. There will be times where we can not, and should not judge. We may not have all the information, we may not have the experience, we may not be able to hear both sides or may even be partial to one side verses another, and to be honest, there may be situations that just may be over our heads and too hard for us to judge. Moses told the men in that case take the problem to him and he will judge the matter. Moses is dead now. But there is One who is alive, and I encourage us to take all things to Him. Let Him judge the matter and we stay quiet in these cases.

As believers, we have the duty to judge matters. But we also must be careful to judge within the body of Christ and not be hypocritical while doing so.  For us, it is our duty to seek the truth of a matter and if possible, shield and warn our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ from danger. We also are to try and correct them and get them back on the right path. As far as judging the world, scripture tells us that we let Yah do that. We warn and point out the sin, but we are not to judge their fruit for we already know that without Christ, they can not bear "good fruit", even though they can have the appearance of a fruit bearing tree.

So, there we have it. The difference between hypocrisy and unrighteous judgement. It is a lot of it going on now days. Let us be careful, that as believers, if we are going to judge, we must do it in a righteous manner making sure that we don't also share the same sins we are judging. Let us make sure to seek truth in matters - no matter where that truth leads. And let us make sure, that we seek the Spirit so that He will lead our spirit to make correct decisions.

Take care!

Things Christians Say...(That Are Demonically Inspired) Part 2 of 5

Here we are at "part two". In part one we discussed that there are many things well intentioned Christians say that are actually demonically inspired. This will be a continuation of that blog.

Social media has become a huge part of our lives. We "like" this, "share" that, have "tweets" and "grams". Need a job? Get on "LinkedIn". Want to show the world what you can do? Get an account at Pinterest! Always wanted to be a star? Get your very own channel and become popular on Youtube. Social media effects us all and it's no wonder. With social media, it opens up doors to worlds you probably never have the money to travel to. It lets you meet people that you never would have seen before.

So, if this is the case, then why do many Christians say "Stop preaching on social media" or "Stop being a Facebook preacher!"? I even witnessed a conversation where someone compared what they were doing in ministry, deeming it better than someone else because at least he was out preaching instead of preaching on Facebook. Talk about pride!

Let's look at scripture....

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." - Matthew 28:18-20

Christ gave the mandate to go and make disciples...of all the nations. I do not want to take liberty with scripture, but really - how awesome is social media? We can literally make disciples of ALL nations. If you are connected in such a way, you have the ability to touch someone with the gospel all the way in Zimbabwe right from the comfort of North Dakota. There is the ability to meet people and have bible studies, prayer, ask questions all through social media - you can teach people to observe the commands and follow the Spirit of Yah all through social media!

Next, let us not forget, Paul didn't go everywhere when he taught, rebuked, or encouraged. Much of our New Testament is written by Paul, and many of those are letters to the churches. Now, Paul didn't have social media in his day, but, a letter to preach the gospel is the same thing. He was not "face to face" with people, on the street corners, or in the synagogue and he still was effective in his ministry in the Lord.

Imagine Paul scribblin away

To look down on someone for sharing through a tool what they have learned from the Spirit of Yah is prideful. It is to say "your way isn't better than mine". Who are we to try and control/move the hand of the Spirit leading that person? If that person is teaching under the influence of the Spirit, who are we to scoff? If that is the platform He has given, who are we to trample on it? Our mandate is to make disciples, teach people about Christ and His redemptive power. Who cares how it's done so long that it is done?

Now granted, many people try to stifle the truth on social media because they are in sin, and sin hates the light. But if you are a believer, you are to love the truth/light no matter where it is found or who gives it - less you fall into darkness.

...that is, the one whose coming is in accord with the activity of Satan, with all power and signs and false wonders, 10 and with all the deception of wickedness for those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved. - 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10

So, the next time you see a brother or sister in Christ "preaching" and sharing Truth on social media and you find yourself scoffing or comparing - stop - and check yourself. They are hopefully following the Spirit and it would do good to listen.. For only the devil and his children would scoff and want to hinder the truth from going forward...

40 but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. 41 You are doing the works your father did.”..44"You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45"But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me.… - John 8:40-41,44-45

Think about it....

Things Christians Say...(That Are Demonically Inspired) Part 1 of 5

The road to hell is paved with good intentions - Proverb

There has been an insurgency of demonic thoughts flowing out of the hearts and mouths of "well meaning" Christians lately. But, as the saying goes - the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

Why do I call the thoughts demonic? "I thought Christians couldn't be possessed", you may be thinking. And I would agree, those with the Spirit of Yah dwelling in them can't be possessed, but they certainly can be influenced.  And if what we say doesn't match up with the "mind of Christ" that is given to us, it is of a demonic spiritual nature. Much of the influence comes from not totally surrendering to the Father. Parts of our hearts and thinking haven't been renewed so we speak something contradictory to the word of Yah. Often times, the main cause of this is pride as well as control - or lack of it. These two things are the hallmark of the enemy of our souls, Satan. One who has not completely given over themselves to Yah will no doubt have traces of this left.

So, lets get to it, what are some of the things said that many Christians have good intentions behind but are really satanic in thought?

1. Stop praying and do something
2. Stop "preaching" on social media
3. Quit judging
4. Be tolerant and stop being hypocritical
5. When you talk about evil, you give the devil glory

Each one of these statements does four things that the bible speaks against:

1. Leans to our own understanding and might
2. For those who are not strong in mind yet, it creates condemnation, confusion and guilt 
3. Takes the focus off of Yah and puts it onto self (comparison)
4. It suppresses discernment and allows those seeking control to dictate how the Spirit "should move"

So, now lets take time to examine these four thoughts in depth and seek the words of the Father. Because there is so much to talk about, I will without a doubt have to make this a five part writing.

1. "Stop praying and do something" 

This quip usually comes at the onset of some publicized social injustice. This thought in turn makes us run either to the might of man or the government instead of the Father. Many Christians use the scripture to support their stance:

Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. - Isaiah 1:17

But, we have to remember who was being talked to by Whom. This verse is given as correction from Yahweh to the Israelites. They were a very rebellious people. Even after all that Yah had done for them, they still refused to do what was right in His eyes. They did what they wanted and were not pleasing to the Father. This admonishment was for them to get back on track and do what He had given them to do. These are a people that did not have the opportunity to know Christ or live by His Spirit either. But now, let's look at the admonishment for those who do have this opportunity....us:

And He told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart....7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” - Luke 18:1,7-8

...pray without ceasing... - 1 Thessalonians 5:17

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. - 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Let's really take a look at that last verse 1 Timothy 2:4 "who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."

I often say, that we will never change culture. It is and has been prophesied that this world will grow colder and more evil and ultimately be destroyed. There is nothing to "save" or "change" except people's hearts and souls. I don't care how many marches you do, how many sit-ins someone convinces you to participate in, how much money you give - this is a train that is not going to stop. The enemy has done a GREAT job at getting our minds off of our assigned task:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you."- Matthew 28:19-20

Our task is to go and make disciples. The only way to do that is to get people "saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."  When we start getting involved in the "cares of this world" we lose our focus. And slowly we get sucked into seeing the "flesh" instead of the demonic spirits in high places. We get sucked into "injustice" and wanting "justice" which is really revenge - something Yah tells us not to seek. The Father tells us not to seek to use our own might to change things. In fact, in Jeremiah 17:5, He calls that person cursed!

Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord." - Jeremiah 17:5

So the question becomes - have prayers of the righteous ever changed any circumstance? The bible says "yes" in fact, they "availeth much". But let's take another example of how just prayers - no marches, no sit-ins, no "volunteer in the neighborhood days", changed a situation that seemed impossible.

 Acts 12 (Shortened for brevity sake. But please read Acts 12:1-19 for full and miraculous context)

12 About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. 2 He killed James the brother of John with the sword, 3 and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also...delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him...but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church...Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison. 7 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. 8 And the angel said to him, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” 9 And he went out and followed him...and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel left him...When he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying...13 And when he knocked at the door of the gateway, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer.

Prayer....that is doing something. Only the inspiration of the enemy would claim that it's "not enough". Let us be mindful to not discount the value of prayer and the effects it can have on a situation.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ. If the Spirit of Yah has lead you to pray, be obedient. It is better to serve Yah than man - for they have no heaven or hell to put you in. Pray on family....pray on....

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. - Romans 8:14

Who's Planting In Your Garden?

False Teachers Part two. There's more? Oh yes, absolutely there's more. You bet your bottom dollar there's more. There's so much more, that the bible from the beginning warns us about false prophets and teachers. But, I was studying today and ran across the parable that I wanted to share. And now that I think about it, this blog is really a good combo of the first "false teachers" blog and my other one about the need to "stay awake".

A Story About Wheat and Weeds

Matthew 13:24-30 (Easy-to-Read Version) 

24 Then Jesus used another story to teach them. Jesus said, “God’s kingdom is like a man who planted good seed in his field. 25 That night, while everyone was asleep, the man’s enemy came and planted weeds among the wheat and then left. 26 Later, the wheat grew, and heads of grain grew on the plants. But at the same time the weeds also grew. 27 Then the man’s servants came to him and said, ‘You planted good seed in your field. Where did the weeds come from?’

28 “The man answered, ‘An enemy planted weeds.’

“The servants asked, ‘Do you want us to go and pull up the weeds?’

29 “He answered, ‘No, because when you pull up the weeds, you might also pull up the wheat. 30 Let the weeds and the wheat grow together until the harvest time. At the harvest time I will tell the workers this: First, gather the weeds and tie them together to be burned. Then gather the wheat and bring it to my barn.’”

Let's pay special attention to verse 25. It says that "while everyone was asleep...". That is a very important part of this parable. I did a blog entry entitled "Sweet Dreams, Horrible Lies". In it, I spoke about how it was time to wake up and pay attention to the things going on around us. In this parable above, people were sleeping - unaware, at ease, comfortable. At that point, the enemy was able to come in and sow weeds among the plants to later be harvested.

What does that have to do with false teachers? It is the modus operandi - or "M.O." for short. It is their method of how they operate. Let's look at what the parable warns us about concerning them:

• They strike when people are least expecting it under the cover of darkness so their actions can't be seen. "That night..."
• They strike while people are comfortable and unaware. "...while everyone was asleep..."
• They seek a garden to defile. " ...the man’s enemy came..." 
• They "plant" what will later result in separation of what is "growing together". "... Let the weeds and the wheat grow together until the harvest time..."

Let's look at weeds for a second. A weed by definition is any wild plant growing where it is not wanted and in competition with cultivated plants. So, if the plant is wanted, it is not a weed.  A weed is wild, untameable, uncontainable, and is something that will suck the life and nutrients out of a particular already existing form of vegetation. 

The man knew his crop and what didn't belong. But, the crop had no idea it was contending with weeds that were planted and had taken root. The crop may have known that getting what it needed was a little harder and its surroundings were not what it was used to. In fact, it by nature may have even later adapted to get some kind of normalcy so it can survive (note surviving and thriving are two different states of being), but it didn't know that in time it could be overtaken and killed. Surely not all the crop will make it out unscathed by the weeds. Some of the crop will succumb to the changing environment the weeds that were planted will bring, while some will be able to be harvested.

Now let's put faces to these characters.

The man is the Father. He sees and assesses the situation. He knows what is good and bad and exacts judgement on the "bad seed".

The enemy is just that, the enemy of our souls. BUT, sometimes we also know that the enemy will use people to carry out his plan i.e. false teachers. They plant weeds - thoughts, ideas, false teaching, even other people into the midst of good seed with the intention of dividing and choking the life out of the good seed.

The wheat are Yah's people. The Word often talks about people as some sort of vegetation. It refers to the righteous as like a tree planted by the water, it speaks of man being like grass, and flowers of the field. In this particular instance, the word is referring to the people of Yah are the good seed. 

The weeds (in this particular story) are those who the Father considers unrighteous. Those who are unrighteous also have unrighteous thoughts, do things that are contrary to Yah's will, and will be removed from the field and burned in the lake of fire.

Please listen to what I am saying here. The bible warns us that in these times, there WILL BE false teachers among us. To ignore that warning is to be asleep. To think it can't happen to you and your assembly is to deny the words of Yah. There will be some crop/wheat that will grow among the weeds that are slyly planted and SOME CROP WILL NOT MAKE IT. Some will be choked out - their strength taken because of the enemy that crept in with weeds (thoughts, deeds, people etc). Some will "survive" just barely making it by the grace of Yah.

So, please, stay awake and beware of who comes into your garden and what they are planting.....

Sweet Dreams, Horrible Lies

Awaken, My children...

"Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed."- Romans 13:11





I like sleep. There is nothing more relaxing than knowing that as soon as my head hits the pillow, I will get rest. I like sleep. The feeling of drifting off away from consciousness and being in a world that's not like the one I just consciously left. I like sleep. But more than I like sleep, I like being awake. Being awake means I'm alive and aware. I like being awake. Being awake means that I can take advantages of new opportunities that come my way. I like being awake. Being awake means I can see, hear, smell, touch, walk, think, act....

One thing that I have been told (not yet proven, thank you very much to those of you, you know who you are!) is that I sleep with my eyes wide open. They tell me it's creepy. My mother often recounts of times I've been in the hospital, and the doctors come and start talking to me and I don't respond. She has to tell them that "She's sleep...she can't hear you". My husband says the same thing. At night he has to stare to see if I blink and that's how he knows if I'm up or not. Do you know how creepy it is for your husband to just stare at you and you stare back not knowing why he's staring? LOL

Another thing about me is that I'm easily scared out of my sleep. I'm not exactly a light sleeper as in, I hear every noise. I hear "expected" noise - my kids, my dog, snoring, cars and sirens, and I'm fine. But the unexpected noises - gun shots, screaming, alarms, someone shaking me or saying my name etc and I'm a nervous wreck for about a good hour after.

Well, now that you know my sleeping history, I want to focus more on the last part. The being-awaken-out-of-my-sleep, part.

Have you ever been asleep, having a good and vivid dream and someone or something awakens you? How do you feel? Or, have you ever fallen asleep in a new place - maybe your new home, hotel, someone's house only to wake up and not know where you are? How do you feel?

It's hard to be waken out of your sleep. For most, sleep represents comfort, peace, safety. It's what you look forward to at the end of a long and hard day. For that to be taken away can cause great angst. We are in that time now where the body of Christ has been put to sleep. I have been studying with the help of a fellow believer that I hold his counsel that he has given me over time very dear. And studying with him I have come to understand something he taught that I want to share. In his book "The Remnant Bride", brother Joseph discusses in depth what I am going to attempt to do in a few short sentences. While many people believe the body has been put to sleep because of the enemy, I don't believe that is what it is.

They body has been lulled to sleep yes, by those of the world and the promises it brings. But I believe the Father has purposely let it happen. We can look at two types in the bible to show us what I mean:

Genesis 2:21-22

21 So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. 22 And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. 

Here we see the example of the Father putting the BODY of Adam to sleep to extract a piece of him that would soon be his bride. Now, let's look at a New Testament to this fact:

 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12

9 The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, 10 and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. 11 Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, 12 in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 

These two verses also leads us to another revealing truth - not everyone who says Lord Lord will see the kingdom of Yah and also, one can be saved (in the body) but not be the bride (the awaken and extracted part of the body). Like I said, there is a lot to all of this that is further clearly explained and biblically supported in that book above. I'm always the proponent of "knowing those 66 books" before reading another written by man. Mainly because many books will lead you away from Yah instead of to Him. So, you must be careful. But I will have to say, this one is pretty spot on and will CAUSE you to go back and have to study deeper the things that Yah is telling us.

Now, back on topic. Why do we like sleep so much? Because we love the false sense of peace and the false reality and delusion (dreams) they bring. We don't want to wake up because the sleep feels good. But now is not the time to sleep and believe the lies we believe are true. Now is the time for the body to WAKE UP and seek truth. Love the truth NOW. Seek the truth NOW, while it may be found.

6 Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

"Well, what do you mean, Deidra? That Thessalonians verse is talking about unbelievers!" I contend that you are wrong. Let's look at another supporting verse:

Matthew 24:9-13

“Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations on account of My name. And at that time many will fall away and will deliver up one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise, and will mislead many. And because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved.”

Notice - who will be the ones falling away? Unbelievers can not fall away. It will be believers that fall away. And why do they fall away? Because they did not love the truth. They would not wake up. And because of that, they fell into a deep sleep - the delusion that the Father will send and is currently sending.

I urge you. If you say you are a believer, it is time to put away the things of this world. In our sleeping, we refuse to see the light. Our eyes are closed and we are enveloped in darkness. The same is true spiritually. 

We sleep being entertained by the "church services" and the world. We sleep when we believe in "our country". We sleep when we perpetuate racism and racist thoughts. We sleep when we cheer violence. We sleep when we find ways to look for strength in ourselves and puff ourselves up with pride thinking we can. We sleep embracing a false peace and love that the Father has not given. The sleep causes us so much delusion - so many lies and false dreams. And so, children of Yah, it is time to wake up.

As with all things, have balance......

On the opposite side of sleep is that if you stay awake for too long, you can miss things. Proof of that angst (as a side note) is that if you ever want to mind control someone - deprive them of sleep. Keeping someone awake will alter them in considerable ways. I urge you to look up MK-Ultra project for more information. 

So, don't stay awake SO much that you are distracted and can't focus. Don't allow the enemy to take advantage of you being awake. Waking up out of a deep sleep has the potential to cause fear. Don't allow the enemy to abuse you and take advantage of you being awake. Don't allow your being awake drive you to fear. We, as the children of Yah, don't have that spirit. It's easy to follow every rabbit hole the enemy digs, but stay focused....keep your opened eyes on Him.

Sleep time is over. There is a terrible time on the horizon that will proceed the coming of our Lord -Yahshua's the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. For those with ears to hear and eyes to see.....wake up.

How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? - Proverbs 6:9

Why We Love False Teachers

They live and breathe among us. They are our neighbors, "friends", relatives, church "leaders". They are great orators, sometimes charismatic, grandiose, authoritative. They are calculating, manipulative, self-seeking, wrong. They are false teachers.

Being involved with social media, coming out of bastardized and institutionalized church, and being involved with several friendships, I have run into my fair share of false teachers. Yes, a small handful didn't know any better and have been able to see error and correct themselves. But for every one or two, there seems to be about one hundred more that continue on with "business" as usual.

One thing I have begun to notice is that the world is starting to take notice of the false teachers and the shenanigry they bring. And when Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (or as his momma called him Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor, Jr) spoke out, I knew I had to finally write about it. I had been sitting and stewing on this blog for a long time. I felt a prompting to write, but I just wasn't sure. Then this article came out. I mean, here is a man who has forsaken the Father in Heaven for another god, but can still see the blatant error in false teaching. And while I don't completely agree with all he said (he misquoted scripture in that article), the things he did say has merit. Yet, there are thousands (and I was one of them) of people who week after week, sit under a false teacher's tutelage and can't discern if it is raining or someone is spiting on them from above. Something is wrong. So, I prayed.

"Why Father? Why are so many people accepting false teachers in their lives?? What is it??"

From that question, He lead me to think on all of my experiences with false teachers. And the Father showed me two common themes.

1. People are drawn to them because of their carnality and fleshly desires. Those teachers provide their "need" or false hope of attaining that "need".
2. People say they know My Words, but ignore Me when I give My warnings to leave them alone. They feel they are the ones that can change them.

Those two answers, as plain as they are, are really profound. I have said once before, when we start "needing" things outside of Christ alone, that is a great time for the enemy, through his means or someone, to exploit us. Let's look at a couple of contrasts in the bible in regards to needs being met.

1 Kings 22:1-8 English Standard Version (ESV)

Ahab and the False Prophets

1 For three years Syria and Israel continued without war. 2 But in the third year Jehoshaphat the king of Judah came down to the king of Israel. 3 And the king of Israel said to his servants, “Do you know that Ramoth-gilead belongs to us, and we keep quiet and do not take it out of the hand of the king of Syria?” 4 And he said to Jehoshaphat, “Will you go with me to battle at Ramoth-gilead?” And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, “I am as you are, my people as your people, my horses as your horses.”

5 And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, “Inquire first for the word of the Lord.” 6 Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said to them, “Shall I go to battle against Ramoth-gilead, or shall I refrain?” And they said, “Go up, for the Lord will give it into the hand of the king.” 7 But Jehoshaphat said, “Is there not here another prophet of the Lord of whom we may inquire?” 8 And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “There is yet one man by whom we may inquire of the Lord, Micaiah the son of Imlah, but I hate him, for he never prophesies good concerning me, but evil.” 

Can you spot the need and how King Ahab searched for it outside of Yahweh? His need is found in verse 3 - greed, power, and control. Carnal needs that he wanted to fill. Because of those things, he wanted to overtake Syria. In doing so, he found people who would placate his need. Now, here is something interesting to note. This king surrounded himself with false prophets. These false prophets were not "new" to him. They were around him, they studied him, they new his likes and dislikes, they knew his inner desires, and knew what to say and do to fulfill his need. This time was no different. They saw his need, and took advantage of it for their own gain and pleasure. For what could be more pleasurable than saying that you "work for the king" and all the pardons/benefits/prestige and money that come with it?

The same goes for those in false teaching positions. They will study a people, discover their "need", and offer them what they want. What benefit comes to them? For some it would be money, some prestige and the need to feel important, some adoration, some control, some power, some the need to feel wanted, some a false notion of success and finally some all of these. None of which is something that the Father calls His teachers to. They are suppose to be the conduits of Christ, not wanting the benefits and the "Bride" for himself. And this is the seduction that is a false teacher - a seller of dreams, hopes, and aspirations, not the gospel of Christ that often tells you to deny yourself and that you will face persecution and death. Because, if that true message is preached to the carnally-minded masses (who are their targets) they get none of the benefits.

Now, let's look at this contrasted situation between Christ and satan.

Matthew 4:1-11 English Standard Version (ESV)

The Temptation of Jesus

1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” 4 But he answered, “It is written,

 “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

5  Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple 6 and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written,

 “‘He will command his angels concerning you,’

and

“‘On their hands they will bear you up,lest you strike your foot against a stone.’”

7 Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. 9 And he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” 10 Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone,  Satan! For it is written,

 “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’”

11 Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him.

If we look carefully at this encounter we should notice something. The enemy satan knew Christ. He studied Him and have known Him since he (satan) was created. Satan was given authority over this world - yet, there was NOTHING that he could give Christ. Christ had no earthly need, no reason to have His ears tickled, no personal agenda to fulfill, therefore no reason for someone to use twisted scripture and thoughts to lead Him into carnality.

False teachers prey on your "needs". They take time to study their audience. You may not even realize it, but they do. Once your need is discovered, they also find a way to fulfill that need - which is why their doctrine can ebb and flow with the changing of the tide keeping the ability to keep your ears tickled. Which leads me to my next point, point number two.

False teachers can not be saved from themselves through human efforts. There are many people who feel it is there "job" to help false teachers see the truth. But those were not, nor ever were our instructions from our Father. We were never meant to "rehab" them and there are several instructions and warnings for us not to do so:

1 Timothy 6:3-5, 11 ESV
If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain....11 But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. 

Romans 16:17-18 ESV
I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

Ephesians 5:6-13 ESV
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. ... 

Colossians 2:8 ESV
See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. 

Matthew 7:15 ESV
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 

2 John 1:10-11 ESV
If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works. 

2 Peter 2 English Standard Version (ESV)
False Prophets and Teachers
2 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.
4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment; 5 if he did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when he brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly; 6 if by turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them to extinction, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly;7 and if he rescued righteous Lot, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked 8 (for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds that he saw and heard); 9 then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, 10 and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority.
Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, 11 whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord. 12 But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction, 13 suffering wrong as the wage for their wrongdoing. They count it pleasure to revel in the daytime. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their deceptions, while they feast with you. 14 They have eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin. They entice unsteady souls. They have hearts trained in greed. Accursed children! 15 Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray. They have followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, 16 but was rebuked for his own transgression; a speechless donkey spoke with human voice and restrained the prophet's madness.
17 These are waterless springs and mists driven by a storm. For them the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved. 18 For, speaking loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved. 20 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. 21 For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. 22 What the true proverb says has happened to them: “The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.”

Throughout all of those verses, no where does it say that we bear with them in trying to get them to see truth or come to Christ. We are not to rehab them. That is not our work. The bible does instruct us to:

1. Test them by their spirit and not their appearances or show they put on - 1 John 4:1 and John 7:24
2. Not receive them but expose them and avoid them - 2 John 1:10-11, Ephesians 5:11, and Romans 16:17, Matthew 15:13-20
3. Pray for our enemies and those who despitefully use us - Matthew 5:43-45

That's it. Nothing more to do. We don't have to "tarry with them a little longer", "help them see the light", "stay because if I leave then everything else will be ruined". It is not our call to in any way entertain them lest you partake in their evil and be lead astray with them.

But why? Why can't we stay and help those who are perceived to know Christ and seem to be brothers and sisters through His blood? The bible again gives us insight and instruction if we are willing to listen:

• they will secretly bring in destructive heresies
• they will teach doctrines of demons - using deductive reasonings this will be so that people will be "devoted" to those teachings as described in 1 Tim 4
• they will teach every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes as decribed in Ephesians 4:14-15
• they will lead you astray as described in Proverbs 10:17

How can one who is supposedly of Yah do this? The simple answer is, they aren't of Him. Christ said:

You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. - John 8:44

Between what Christ says without stuttering and other scripture, these things tell us they are children of the devil. Trying to "teach" them won't help. If it does, then we can effectively draw satan to Christ for salvation. No one with the Spirit of Yah can lie about Him. The Spirit brings us into truth and teaches us all truth. He would not have us lie on or about Him. One who does not have Him and still teaches isn't teaching the truth and if they are getting "benefits" they probably don't want truth (or else they'd be seeking it and accepting correction instead of trying to find ways to skirt around correction and "make it fit" to continue to deceive and gain the Bride's benefits). And THIS is why we are not to try and "rehab" them. If their hearts are to change, that will be solely the work of the Father in them. If we continue to bear with them, the scripture is clear on what will happen to us.

This is a hard understanding. Many of us are friends with, family of, or are taught by false teachers. Step foot in a church on any given Sunday, and you are probably walking into a den of darkness. And "home churches" or fellowships are not immune. The enemy lurks in all people who seek any "need" outside of Christ and his agents have needs that he can provide no matter how big or small the "following".

I know we want to see them do better, we want to help, we want to believe what they have to sell. But it is in our best interest to follow the instructions of Yah. Leave them be and let Him deal with them the way only He can. With false teachers, we are dealing with a matter of the heart - for it is not what goes into a person that defiles them, but what comes out. And what comes out comes from the heart.

Stay vigilant in these last and coming days. Many are sent to decieve and draw you away from Yah. It is up to you to not fall victim and seek the truth in Him always.

Love,
Deidra