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SANCTIFIED VESSELS

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SANCTIFIED VESSELS

There are many inroads to ungodliness, darkness, lawlessness, immorality and demonic influences and oppression. If you give Satan an opening, he will pry that opening wider and wider.

Matthew 12:43–45 (NKJV)

43 “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. 44 Then he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. 45 Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”

We must cast down vain imaginations and temptations which we know are contrary to the knowledge and way of Christ Jesus.

2 Corinthians 10:3–6 (NKJV)

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.

What most people don’t see, choose not to see, underestimate or disbelieve is that the greatest spiritual battle was fought in heaven and that same battle continues here on earth even within the church assemblies and leadership.  Look across the world today at how exterior influences of Covid19 and other mandates have restricted the assembling of the saints not to mention the attacks from within the church assembly.

Sadly, much of this battle is fought within the church assembly and within leadership as demonic influences constantly attack even from within the church assembly. To deny that Satan puts people or demonic spirits/influences within the church buildings and assemblies to destroy the works of Christ is to deny the battle fought in heaven ever happened and the battle here and now, not to mention the battle which is to come when Christ Jesus returns.

In addition, it was the works of Satan which crucified Christ but even through that, Jesus was in control because Jesus controlled the time that the crucifixion would take place. It was at an appointed time.  Jesus freely gave His life, we need to do the same and lay down our lives to Christ for the salvation of others. 

John 15:13 (NKJV)

13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

I am saddened when I look at profiles that have lustful images and “likes”. There should be modesty in our appearances as this applies to both men and women.  As the Lord leads I private message people to help them work through their struggles and many do comply by repentance and removing those things that are ungodly or invite demonic influences into their lives.  The struggles are real, and we need to rightly deal with these struggles. 

When I see Pastors or church leaders with these things it is even more disheartening yet not surprising. (No condemnation) If Satan can attack leadership then everything under that leadership is subjected to those same demonic influences. Satan will always try to attack “the head” leadership and if that doesn’t work Satan will attack those close to the “head leadership”.  This includes the family structure and why there are so many separations, adulteries and divorces.

We must not sit under false prophets or ministers believing the words of these false prophets. Substituting lies for truth. Then there are those who “like” “false prophets” or a mixture of true prophets and false prophets. I am not being judgmental here I am stating facts.   The truth is every time we receive revelation of the Truth of God we are under judgment.  What are we going to do now that we truly have a revelation of Truth?  We must conform to Truth! 

John 14:6 (NKJV)

6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

(Read 2 Peter 2)

As we truly grow in Christ and walk the narrow path so will the people we follow or associate with.  Things we once enjoyed we longer enjoy, things we once did we no longer do. The time is accelerating and of urgency. The bride must prepare for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb.

See my article:

http://abidingbread.com/2018/01/28/marriage-supper-of-the-lamb/

As the world increases in ungodliness, immorality, perversion and lawlessness the influences and forces of these demonic attacks increase against us. Let us not lose hope or faith in this battle because a born-again follower of Christ knows this earth is not their home.

I believe however hard these times are for the body of Christ, all of this is a preparation for what is about to come. Many go without food and shelter. Others are abandoned by loved ones because of the spiritual division of beliefs. Whatever the hardship let us rejoice in the finished work of Calvary. Do not grow weary as our redemption draws near.

Galatians 6:9 (NKJV)

9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

 

See my article on Consequences: 

http://abidingbread.com/2020/07/12/consequences/

Meanwhile let us humble ourselves as individuals with truthful personal reflection of our pursuit of holiness and righteousness to Christ Jesus. Our salvation is not dependent upon others it is only dependent upon our personal true and godly devotion to Christ.

 

We need to restore one another in the Spirit of the Lord Jesus in the Fruit of the Spirit. Restoration only happens through true humility, honest reflection, repentance and our true desire towards being the bride of Christ Jesus. NONE OF US IS EXEMPT FROM THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE WE EACH MUST HOLD OURSELVES ACCOUNTABLE.

 

Galatians 6:1 (NKJV)

Bear and Share the Burdens

6 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.

 

1 Corinthians 11:27–34 (NKJV)

Examine Yourself

27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 30 For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world.

33 Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 34 But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come.

 

We know that judgment starts in the house of the Lord, the Lord desires His pulpits to be holy, undefiled, sanctified, consecrated just as the Lord wants our bodies to be sanctified and consecrated.

 

1 Corinthians 6:19 (NKJV)

19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?

 

True discernment within the church is not only knowing truth from error but also knowing those who are under demonic influences that truly seek deliverance and restoration verses those who come to undermine, kill, steal and destroy on behalf of Satan. As long as we falsely believe the “partial truth” that only the Lord knows the hearts of people we will deny that the heart is wicked and deceitful. To be a preacher of righteousness sin must be addressed and the wages of sin spoken and addressed.

 

Jeremiah 17:9 (NKJV)

9  “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?

 

 

Ezekiel 36:26 (NKJV)

26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 

The Lord always exposed the hearts of people to His true servants. These servants are humble enough yet strong enough in the Spirit of God to approach people for repentance and restoration. Many of these servants are mocked, slandered, demised, persecuted, cast away, ridiculed and were martyred.

(Read 2 Samuel 12)

King David is a prime example and David was a man after God’s heart. The Lord sent Nathan to speak to David and there are times the Lord will send people to us for restoration.  It is also worth noting that if ANYONE merely points out your sin but DOES NOT bring you to the cross of Calvary AND the resurrection of Christ so that we can become new creations in Christ they are NOT of the LORD JESUS!  (The exclude the gospel of Christ and the propitiation of sin through Christ.)

 

1 John 1:9 (NKJV)

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The time is long overdue that we seek the holiness and righteousness of Christ wearing the full armor of God not only in our personal temple but in the House of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:10–13 (NKJV)

The Whole Armor of God

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Luke 22:31–32 (NKJV)

Christ Predicts Peter’s Denial

Matt. 26:31–35; Mark 14:27–31; John 13:36–38

31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”

 None of us are exempt from the attempts or sifting of Satan.

 

The grace of God and the blood of Jesus is all sufficient and blessed are those who are cleansed, forgiven, redeemed and reconciled to Christ Jesus.  May the Lord receive the fullness of His inheritance, the hearts and souls of all His children. 

 

Numbers 6:24–26 (NKJV)

    24      “The LORD bless you and keep you;

    25      The LORD make His face shine upon you,

    And be gracious to you;

    26      The LORD lift up His countenance upon you,

    And give you peace.” ’

 

Titus 2 (NKJV)

Qualities of a Sound Church

2 But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2 that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

6 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, 7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.

9 Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, 10 not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

 

Trained by Saving Grace

11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

15 Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.

 

 

WITCHCRAFT

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Witchcraft

When the Lord says we will be held accountable for every spoken word and He truly means it!  We must remember that words either render life or death and this includes written words also.  Everything is inspired by something and it’s either good or evil in God’s standards and virtues. 

 The Lord had me assisting a person through a season which the Lord revealed to me was a season of repentance for this person as the Lord desired this person to come to Christ.  This person followed people that were false prophets and utilized witchcraft, divination, etc. 

 This person told me that they “loved” this certain minister and wanted me to read the books from this false minister.  I said I would not allow those books in my home and I didn’t want to read them as they were ungodly and not from the Lord.  Without my knowledge this person brought one of those books and left it in my house and placed it in my bookshelf. Similar as in Revelation 2 the Lord was giving this person a “season” to repent but this person chose not to surrender to the Lord.  

 It was about that time that the Lord told me break free from this person and stop mentoring them.   The Lord had revealed to me much about this person so I wasn’t surprised and knew that this person was involved in witchcraft but I also knew that the Lord desired this person to repent and was giving this person an opportunity to do just that as in Revelation 2.  So I broke off the mentoring and communication with this person.  I began to feel ill at times and the intensity of my spiritual battles seemed to escalate which is nothing alarming as it’s part of the journey and normal to the Christian life.  After a few days my spirit was “restless” for lack of better definition, so I got in my chair and got still before the Lord seeking revelation of what I was battling.  The Lord spoke to me and said to pick up one of my books on my bookshelf and when I did the book I refused to have in my house and read was under the book I picked up.

I immediately took this book outside, got some gasoline and offered it as a burnt offering to the Lord and prayed against the demonic spirits attached to this book.  For some reason I felt compelled to take pictures of this book as it burned. 

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(You might have to zoom in on picture)

I am thankful to the Lord Jesus for revealing this attack and breaking the curses which were assigned against me.  There are times I have used this picture to teach others and now the Lord has me posting this online.  Look at the picture and notice the many manifestations in this picture.  Just as the Holy Spirit inspired the written Word of God demonic spirits inspired the book that was left in my house. 

 People need to take notice of gifts and other items that are given to them which may have evil spirits attached or inspired those writings or gifts.  Many “trinkets” might well be idols to false gods……

 Acts 16:16 (NKJV)

16 Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling.

 

Acts 19:19 (NKJV)

19 Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver.

 

I urge all of you to use caution in what you read, listen to and watch.  Too many people seeking other spirits for insight and revelation which is NOT of the Lord Jesus.

SPIRITUAL SICKNESS

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SPIRITUAL SICKNESS

 

One of the greatest sicknesses isn’t a disease it’s a spirit which embraces other destructive spirits rendering sound decision making impaired, health restoration inhibited and attempts to destroy the same attributes in those we love and care about!

 

This spirit perverts, twists, manipulates, enforces tactics, methods, and protocols contrary to what is needed for restoration of true health. It can leave a person with feelings of hopelessness, destruction, abandonment, isolation, lack of self-worth, loss of strength, loss of motive and render complete paranoia and even the embracement of death.

 

Ultimately, its goal is to bring death to the soul and eventually to the life of the person and all those people exposed to this spirit. If this spirit were classified in human military terminology perhaps it would be called “friendly fire” because spirits work through people and affect other people. Its true spiritual purpose is to kill, steal and destroy every life possible!

 

There is no human antidote or medical cure because it is a spirit and not a disease! A disease can’t kill the soul only the flesh! Does this resemble what is transpiring across the globe now? 

 

SPIRIT OF FEAR

2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

 

There is a very simple reality about the fear of death and I in no way in stating this attempting to undervalue a person’s life.  Many fear death because the wages of sin is death.  They are not in right standing with God and/or truly not “born again”.  I am astonished at the number of professing Christians who fear death while openly proclaiming that the “Resurrection” dwells within them.  How can you fear a disease when the “Resurrection” dwells within you?  How can you embrace John 3:16 in faith and embrace death simultaneously?  How can you truly preach Christ fearing death, were not the Apostles martyred? 

I’d like to expound on what I have never heard preached, but the Lord revealed to me.  When Jesus was in the garden of Gethsemane, He sweat drops of blood as the crucifixion drew near.  Jesus then spoke not my will, but your will be done Father.  Was that the son of man or the Son of God speaking?  If flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of Heaven what was displayed and truly happening was the separation of the son of Man and the Son of God.  The flesh (human soul) needed to die/surrender to fulfill the will of God!  The last thing any person desires is to die so the conversion, sanctification and human will of the human soul is only overcome by the Spirit of God!  The Son of God is eternal and cannot die so it was the Son of Man totally surrendered to the Son of God in the garden of Gethsemane. 

 

Matthew 16:25 (NKJV)

25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

 

Revelation 12:11 (NKJV)

11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.

 

John 11:25 (NKJV)

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.

 

If we reflect on Psalm 23 which is often quoted at funerals this Psalm is for those who live in Christ not for those who are not.  The good news is the Gospel of Christ where redemption is available, and atonement has been in Christ Jesus!

 

John 3:16 (NKJV)

16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

 

Where is the “valley of the shadow of death”?   I am not referring to a city, country or specific location but generally speaking it is the earth.  We are surrounded by death, spiritual death.  There are people dying spiritually and they don’t even know it because the enemy has them captive.  Only through Christ are the captives set free!

 

Even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death “I will fear no evil for thou are with me!” 

 

The table that is prepared is symbolic of the last supper and we are able no matter how much darkness and death tries to consume us partake of the “BREAD OF LIFE”!  Praise the Lord!  Glory to God! 

 

In these last days or as I see it last HOURS the professing body of Christ must overcome the fear of death!  Why are so many Christians afraid of death, let each of us search our hearts humbly before the Lord on this.  How will you be able to refuse the mark of the beast if you fear death? 

 

Satan is likely laughing as humanity fights whether to wear a mask or not to wear a mask when in reality the mask is NOT the problem it is a diversion and smoke screen to what is really happening.  A mask cannot save your life!  There is an evil agenda at work and who is anyone to Lord over us saying we can’t buy food without a mask?  How did they get to decide who lives and dies?  Satan wants to make himself God, what spirits are at work?  To simply say it is a mandate does not make it godly!  Is abortion godly?  It may be legal, but it is NOT GODLY! 

 

Has the mask become an idol, is your faith in your mask?  To be told you don’t love because you won’t wear a mask is absolute hypocrisy.  Are we bowing to a mask?  Do you believe in the Resurrection, have you encountered the Resurrection, or have you been conquered by the grave?  If you choose to wear a mask that is a PERSONAL decision and should remain a PERSONAL decision. 

 

Personally, I can’t imagine believing in the healing power of God and praying for someone’s health while wearing a mask.  I am either delivered from death or I am not.  Is sickness real, sure it is.  Does sickness define me, definitely NOT!  There is a separation of the flesh and the spirit!

 

Hebrews 4:12–13 (NKJV)

12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.

 

For example, I NEVER force prayer on anyone, and I respect their personal decisions and boundaries.  While in a store recently the Lord prompted me to pray for an elderly woman with difficulty walking.  I sought the Lord then approached the woman telling her the Lord wanted me to pray for her and asked if she would like prayer.  She said yes, I stated I am not wearing a mask does this make you uncomfortable and she said no.  Both her and her husband were wearing masks.  I laid hands on her and prayed.  I then looked at her husband and the Lord gave me words of knowledge and through those words of knowledge came prophetic utterance.  I said The Lord says you are a strong man and you do not wish to burden your loved ones with your troubles the Lord says that you need to cast those burdens upon Him as only the Lord can deliver you from your burdens.  There were other words from the Lord, but I am merely giving this as an example.

 

Psalm 55:22 (NKJV)

22 Cast your burden on the Lord,

And He shall sustain you;

He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

 

Matthew 11:28–30 (NKJV)

28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

 

His wife then spoke and said he was just diagnosed with dementia.  I asked if he would like prayer.  He said yes, The Lord had me break the curses of his diagnosis as lead by the Lord and spoke the mind of Christ over him and proclaimed that the Spirit of God is not ruled or subjected to the flesh but the flesh is subjected to the Spirit of God.  I continued to pray as the Holy Spirit guided me.  We continued to pray and fellowship for a while. 

 

My point is that I respect your personal liberties and I merely ask the same in return.  I believe in the resurrection and I believe my destiny is in Christ and in NOTHING else.

 

Psalm 23 (NKJV)

Psalm 23

The Lord The Shepherd of His People

A Psalm of David.

1  The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2   He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

3   He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

4   Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil;

For You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5  You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

6   Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

All the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

Forever.

 

It would be good to remember that a house divided will not stand and that the foundation of TRUE faith is ONLY in Christ Jesus.  My life is not my own but the life I live know is in the faith of Christ.

 

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

 

Daniel 3:16–18 (NKJV)

16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17 If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18 But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”

 

We know the story of Shadrach, Meshack and Abed-Nego and through meditation and perhaps the way the Lord has me process things I try to examine not only the truths of God’s word but also the consequences of God’s word.  For example, why something happened following God and what happens or could happen not following God.  There are consequences and I meditate on both sides for clarity.

 

An example would be who, what, when, why, how and why not.  The why not has me question why didn’t the rest of the Israelites go into the fiery furnace after Jesus was in there with the three Jews?  If you truly are seeking the Lord, HIS glory and to be one with the Lord why wouldn’t you go into the fire?  Jesus is an “All Consuming Fire” and everything will be tested by fire.  This question would also include the book of Exodus when they would not go up the mountain with Moses, but they made idols.  When I say Israelites, I am not being specific regarding Israel or Jewish people but followers of Christ.  If you are truly seeking and following Christ wouldn’t you want to dwell and abide in His presence?

 

I encourage all of us me included to continuously embrace these thoughts humbly in prayer.  Will the Lord be glorified in my life and death (human death) for His glory and will I be a living witness unto death for His name sake?

 

John 14:27 (NKJV)

27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

 

 

Fear is often used for manipulation, control, dominance and submission of a person’s personal liberties to life that is dictated by others.  The forces behind fear is evil and demonic in nature.

Everlasting Arms Of Jesus

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“Underneath are the everlasting arms.” 

— Deuteronomy 33:27

 

God—the eternal God—is himself our support at all times, and especially when we are sinking in deep trouble. There are seasons when the Christian sinks very low in humiliation. Under a deep sense of his great sinfulness, he is humbled before God till he scarcely knows how to pray, because he appears, in his own sight, so worthless. Well, child of God, remember that when thou art at thy worst and lowest, yet “underneath” thee “are everlasting arms.” Sin may drag thee ever so low, but Christ’s great atonement is still under all. You may have descended into the deeps, but you cannot have fallen so low as “the uttermost”; and to the uttermost he saves. Again, the Christian sometimes sinks very deeply in sore trial from without. Every earthly prop is cut away. What then? Still underneath him are “the everlasting arms.” He cannot fall so deep in distress and affliction but what the covenant grace of an ever-faithful God will still encircle him. The Christian may be sinking under trouble from within through fierce conflict, but even then he cannot be brought so low as to be beyond the reach of the “everlasting arms”—they are underneath him; and, while thus sustained, all Satan’s efforts to harm him avail nothing. 

 

This assurance of support is a comfort to any weary but earnest worker in the service of God. It implies a promise of strength for each day, grace for each need, and power for each duty. And, further, when death comes, the promise shall still hold good. When we stand in the midst of Jordan, we shall be able to say with David, “I will fear no evil, for thou art with me.” We shall descend into the grave, but we shall go no lower, for the eternal arms prevent our further fall. All through life, and at its close, we shall be upheld by the “everlasting arms”—arms that neither flag nor lose their strength, for “the everlasting God fainteth not, neither is weary.” 

 

 Spurgeon, C. H. (2006). Morning and evening: Daily readings (Complete and unabridged; New modern edition.). Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers.

Vindication Is The Lord’s

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Vindication is Mine Says The Lord

Romans 12:19 (AMP)

 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for [God’s] wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay (requite), says the Lord. [Deut. 32:35.]

 

The snare of self-vindication/self-righteousness can be a deadly spiritual snare.  It “binds” a person internally by external influences.  We mustn’t confuse being free in the spirit of the Lord with being freed from this fallen world and the opinions and persecutions of this world. 

When a person knows the truth they are defined by the truth not the accusations, lies, opinions, thoughts, interpretations or deceptions of others.  The need to be right can and often will allow compromising being right with the Lord Jesus. 

I am not inferring that we shouldn’t speak truth but truth without love is not palatable and definitely not in the fruit of the spirit of the Lord Jesus.  People wrongfully accused should be at an inner/spiritual peace still walking in the Spirit and Fruits of The Spirit of the Lord.  Gas doesn’t put out a fire only “living water” puts out the fire!

The Truth of Christ is absolute; but absolutely many won’t come to the truth!  When a person seeks self-validation they are not free in the spirit/heart/mind as they are bound by the impressions and influences of others or perhaps their own lack of knowledge, deceit or revelation of Truth.  Self-vindication is based on proving one’s self/character to be right verses living accordingly to what is right.  This is when the temptations of self vindication become works of the flesh and we often respond in the spirits and demeanor of our accusers, cussing, cursing, gossip, slander, accusing and bringing up past relational/personal problems which we have claimed to have forgiven!

Whenever we walk in “works of the flesh” we are not walking in the Spirit of the Lord or the fruits of the Spirit! We are consumed by the needs, opinions, impressions and worthiness in the sight/opinions of others; which is outside of Christ Jesus. 

Jesus didn’t come merely to tell us the Truth, HE REVEALED THE TRUTH!  Truth is a revelation as a revelation has application and implication; which brings light to darkness and deception.  Without revelation truth becomes factual!  This is why the Cross of Christ is foolishness to people because they need a revelation not just words that are true and when we walk in the flesh and not the spirit we block the spiritual revelation from being revealed because we are seeking “self” instead of revealing Christ!  Fallen nature doesn’t redeem fallen nature!  You have responded in the flesh and there is not spiritual truth being revealed.  You likely, raised your voice, gave ultimatums, accused and accursed the very person you want to come to the revelation of truth!  Who would want to come to Christ with that representation of Christ? 

1 Corinthians 1:18 (AMP)

For the story and message of the cross is sheer absurdity and folly to those who are perishing and on their way to perdition, but to us who are being saved it is the [manifestation of] the power of God.

When Jesus asked His disciples who people said that He was they named everything that others claimed Him to be verses seeking the truth of who He was.  When the opinions of men/women were all brought forth Jesus said but who do you say that I am?  Then Peter said you’re the Messiah the Christ!  Jesus said flesh and blood has not revealed this to you but my Father in Heaven has revealed this to you! 

Jesus wasn’t/isn’t influenced by opinions He walked/walks in Truth!  If we walk in the Truth of Christ why should opinions define us?  The unsaved/un-regenerated person is a friend of this world (knowingly or unknowingly) and not of the Kingdom of God, do you really expect them to know the truth of the gospel in truthful revelation?  Are you revealing and demonstrating Christ in the fruit of the Spirit to them?  When you seek vindication all you are likely demonstrating/revealing is the fallen nature that the Lord came to deliver us from!  We are not righteous on our own we are only righteous in Christ.  If we walk in the Truth of Christ we should also walk in the Spirit of The Lord as they are not separate!  It is possible to speak what is true and not be “born again” or walk/have the spirit of the Lord.  Jesus did not say you will know them by the words they speak.  He said you will know them by their fruit! Even a lie can be partial truth!  It is possible to be educated in the Word of God and not be “born again” or walking in the Spirit of the Lord.  Even Satan is a master of scripture that is why he manipulates the Word of God out of context and distorts the Truth.  The Word of God is true but is the SPIRIT OF THE LORD THAT REVEALS THE TRUTH.  Legalism uses the Word of God to bind us and restrict us while the Spirit of the Lord uses the Word to redeem, reconcile and give us liberty!  Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty/freedom! 

2 Timothy 3:16 (AMP)

16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action),

2 Peter 1:21 (AMP)

21 For no prophecy ever originated because some man willed it [to do so—it never came by human impulse], but men spoke from God who were borne along (moved and impelled) by the Holy Spirit.

 2 Corinthians 5:16 (AMP)

16 Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh].

 John 16:13 (AMP)

13 But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future].

When you hold an “offense” (people offend you) you can become offensive!  If “iron sharpens iron” then HUMILITY is the honing oil that allows both people to be sharpened!  Humble people seek the Truth which is pleasing to the Lord in the fruit of the Spirit. They put Christ first and the ways of Christ first seeking the Lord’s revelatory truth!  To truly know Christ is to have peace within us!  The love of Christ casts out all fear!

I’ve heard it said that the Lord doesn’t bring any new revelations!  This is false!  The Lord is always bringing new revelations but NOT CONTRADICTIVE TO HIS WORD, VIRTUES OR ATTRIBUTES!  If the Lord doesn’t bring new revelations then why do we pray?  Don’t we pray for His guidance, wisdom and will to be done!  Do we not pray for revelations through our adversities, tribulations and afflictions? When Moses was told to deliver the Lord’s people He wasn’t given a manual of all the events that would happen in this process?  Moses had no instruction manual however He had a promise as God told Moses bring the Israelites back to the mountain.  Moses now had God’s purpose, promise and destiny without a manual or directions only a directive!  To Trust the Word of God would be to trust the Person of Christ and the Spirit of God!   Jesus is the Word that became flesh, if we abide in Jesus don’t we have the Word written upon our heart?  (John 15)  Imagine the Patriarch of Faith Abraham trying to intellectualize being asked to sacrifice his son?  Imagine getting second, third or forth opinions from others?  Is not faith without works dead!  Is not “works” without faith fleshly, religious or a tradition. 

To win a heart you don’t speak to the mind you speak to the heart in the fruit of the Spirit.  I see post after post and hear sermon after sermon “who knows the heart of a person but only God”…  Well according to Hebrews 4:12 and John 15:5-7 we should know the hearts of people!  If Christ abides in you and the flesh is crucified shouldn’t we have the mind of Christ?  Are we ministering to the minds or the hearts?  Are we walking intellectually or spiritually?  In Romans 10 do we not confess with our mouth and believe in our heart that Jesus is Lord?  Do we love with our mind or our heart!  Lord help us if we love from our mind as that is the battlefield of spiritual warfare and we are told/instructed to renew our minds through the washing of the Word of God!

Hebrews 4:12 (AMP)

12 For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.

John 15:5–7 (AMP)

5 I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.

6 If a person does not dwell in Me, he is thrown out like a [broken-off] branch, and withers; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and they are burned.

7 If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.

Jesus didn’t come to play intellectual games he came to redeem the broken hearted, proclaim the “good news”, set the captives free and to reveal the Father!  (Isaiah 61)

John 14:7–9 (AMP)

7 If you had known Me [had learned to recognize Me], you would also have known My Father. From now on, you know Him and have seen Him.

8 Philip said to Him, Lord, show us the Father [cause us to see the Father—that is all we ask]; then we shall be satisfied.

9 Jesus replied, Have I been with all of you for so long a time, and do you not recognize and know Me yet, Philip? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say then, Show us the Father?

John 17:21 (AMP)

21 That they all may be one, [just] as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be one in Us, so that the world may believe and be convinced that You have sent Me.

Self-vindication is the rollercoaster of emotions and emotions that rule and reign within us is not Christ ruling and reigning within us.  There are many storms in life but only One that can calm the storms of life, Christ Jesus.  Let us deny ourselves and pick up our cross so that Christ may rule and reign in us, through us and to those around us! May the peace of the Lord be with you always for that is the desire of our Lord Christ Jesus.

John 14:27 (AMP)

Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]