My Dream of Societal Break Down

Image taken from calvarycentral.org

I had been having dreams lately that would leave me in a state of dread, yet waking up thinking “that was strange”. No matter how hard I tried, I could never remember the dreams. I had another this morning and this time I remembered it. I don’t usually share my dreams that are like these. By "these", I mean ones that have spiritual implications. But I feel I should share this one.

My family and I were on a farm trip for bible study. We were to meet in a big covered shelter. It looked like a picnic shelter with barn type décor. Outside of the shelter there was a big pond. Inside there was a small warming kitchen. There was a rafter just above where our son was sitting. Our daughter was still out walking toward the shelter with some other girls. 

As I was coming from the area of the kitchen I heard a hissing sound then a rattling sound. I saw a burgundy type snake slithering down toward our son’s head. He saw it but didn't move out of its way. Instead, he was trying to grab it. So I yelled at him to stop and move. I ran to him and covered his head and the snake went back into the rafters. 

A bunch of people were there in the shelter by this point but I couldn't find my husband. So I kept our kids away from the shelter and away from the other people. I went back to the kitchen and a female minister I knew was there. We talked a bit. Then I heard kids screaming. They were on the rafter and the snake was striking at them. I kept saying, “Get down, where are your parents?!” I looked around and all the adults had gone out of the shelter to watch a presentation on the other side of the field. The kids kept screaming and some were jumping off the rafters to get away. When I tried to help, they cursed me because I was “in their way”. 

The last girl up there tried to jump but she was afraid of heights. I ran to get her a chair thinking that maybe it wouldn't seem so far down. As soon as she was about to get down, the snake bit her foot - twice. She fell out the rafter and I saw it was a young girl I had known from a church we went to. Her leg swelled around her sock really bad. So I carried her over to sit on a chair by the pond. I ran to get ice and the minister was said very nonchalantly, that there was no more. So I told her to call 911 and she said, “It will do no good no one can help her now.” So I kept asking the girl where her mom was and she kept getting smart, having an attitude, and refused to answer. I told her I couldn’t help her without her mom, but she didn’t care. 

The next thing I knew she ended up in the pond. The minister and I watched her float for a while. Then the head of an alligator popped up near the edge of the pond by the shelter where we were. I called for her to get out. She refused. I tried to throw food to the alligator but it had already saw her. There were no rocks or anything to throw so a few ladies appeared and we started clanging pots and pans, thinking it would distract the alligator. The noise made a few adults look over and someone asked what was wrong. So we pointed to the alligator and the girl. The person ran back to the group and a mob of people with guns came running. But by that time, the gator had his head on the girl’s lap. She wouldn't fight. So it grabbed her leg, death rolled, and pulled her under. We could see the alligator thrashing, and I kept telling people to shoot. But, some didn't want to kill the animal and some were trying to read a book to see if it was legal to do so. No one would shoot. Then it got dark.

There are so many meanings to this dream that I see:

• Parents aren't there to cover and keep their kids from danger - I found it significant that the snake/serpent was going for my son's head. And at the moment that I covered it, the snake/serpent receded back to the rafters. As parents, it is our responsibility to cover our children - spiritually and physically.
• Children are in danger and have to save themselves, often getting hurt in the process - In the dream, because the adults were distracted by entertainment and are not watching them, or raising them the children were in imminent danger. They had no one to help them so they had to do what they could to save themselves. No one was there to even reprimand them for climbing ON the rafters, which could have prevented the danger in the first place.
• Society has become more concerned with animal rights and laws than people - A child was dying right before the groups eyes. The group was equipped to stop the problem, but chose the animal and laws instead of common sense to save the child. 
• Even with the efforts of others trying to "save the children",  if a child is apathetic about their life, danger is no threat - The child in the dream that was bitten had no concern for her life. She didn't care that she would die - either by the bite or by the alligator. She was apathetic to her situation. Which could have been because she had nothing to live for. So for her, danger and death was no threat but was welcomed.
• The "present-day church" is not paying attention and easily distracted - This was supposed to be a "bible study" time, a "gathering of God's people" if you will, and people left the covering of the shelter because they were more interested in being entertained. No one knew the snake or alligator was even there among them.
• There will be a select few to sound the alarm and there will be a select few to heed the call - In the dream, out of no where, a few women joined me clanging pots and pans. Because of that, a few men came out of the group and went back to warn the others. 

One thing I did find strange about the dream was that I couldn't find my husband. If anyone knows us we are joined at the hip at least 15-24 hours of the day (the other hours he's at work and in work traffic lol). I don't quite know what to make of it. I speculate because the dream seemed to be about today's society it represented the absence of fathers. I speculate that it may also just be that the Father saw fit to let me focus on what I would do and not what we would do. I don't know.

And here is another thing I don't understand. Why I would have this dream with this meaning when I already know these things. I'm guessing the Father wants me to write it down for someone who will one day see it and it rings true for them? If you are reading this, and you are that person, I pray the Father uses this to help you in some way. Outside of that, I'm not sure.

What I am sure about is that those of us as the Father's people, and as a society as a whole have to wake up and look around. I know things have to happen a certain way as prophesied, but there is still time to wake up and not be a part of it. Parents, protect your children. Church folk, pay attention. Society, let's start to value human life. These things won't cure the ills of this world as it grows colder and darker, but it is a starting point. Let's use our time wisely before time is no more.

WAKE UP

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....