Category Archives: Government of God

Praying for our President and His Family

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Obama Family_Team USA

He will have an intimate strong relationship with the Father that manifests to this nation

“ I will be to him a father , and he shall be to me a son” (2 Samuel 7:14) .

He will have a heart after God’s heart

“… he (God) raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, ‘I have

found in David the son of Jesse a man after my hear t , who will do al l my will. ’ Of

this man’s offspring God has brought to Israel a Saviour , Jesus, as he promised”

(Acts 13:22,23)

The Whitehouse will reflect the Lordship of Christ

He shall build a house for my name” (2 Samuel 7:13)

God did not mean a real building, but again a family. The house ( family) that the Lord Jesus is building is God’s family – the family of believers from all ages.

He will have visions and revelations:

2 Corinthians 12:1-21 – It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord

He will walk according to the Spirit

Romans 8:1-39 – [There is] therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

He will NOT listen to the counsel of the ungodly

Psalms 1:1 – Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

He would test and try the spirits and KNOW which ones are false prophets

1 John 4:1-6 – Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

He would always see and know and have an answer of the hope in God’s plan for our nation

1 Peter 3:15 – But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

He will be strong in the Lord and the power of HIS might

Ephesians 6:10-20 – Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Let the five-fold office Gift you have given him operate fully and give him access to ALL the gifts

Ephesians 4:11-13 – And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Everything you have delivered him from he will NOT be bound by again and he walks in liberty in the spirit

Galatians 5:1-68 – Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

His body will be a living sacrifice to you Lord and his flesh dead to sin

Romans 12:1-21 – I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service.

Romans 6:7 For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin

 

God will establish his leadership as he obeys all that the Lord commands

1 Kings 9:5 I will establish your royal throne over Israel (God will set up kings and establish their leadership over a nation) forever, as I promised David your father when I said, ‘You shall never fail to have a man on the throne of Israel.’

 THE OBAMA FAMILY!

They will have rest and God’s presence all day everyday

My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Ex33:14).

You brought them out of the world(Egypt) and they will no longer be in bondage to it, the seduction or the worlds system

“I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people. I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt so that you would no longer be slaves to the Egyptians; I broke the bars of your yoke and enabled you to walk with heads held high” (26:12-13).

 

The Lord Himself bless them  and keep them!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26).

 

They will not fear the enemies of our nation

Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you” (Numbers3:22).

Let them never ever be without an answer from the Lord

“If . . . you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul” (Numbers 4:29).

The Lord will do battle against their enemies

The Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory” (Numbers 20:4).

The Lord will be with them wherever they go

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

Praying for Our Government

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After a most intense, much anointed time of prayer for the inauguration of our President, I obeyed the Lord, I set up a standard for how I will answer the Lord for the iniquity in our land, I will pray.

I will pray for those in authority just as Paul taught to the church in Rome.

Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. (Romans 13:1-4)

I will pray for wisdom, revelation and understanding just as Paul taught to the church in Ephesus.

That the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may KNOW (experience) what is the hope of His calling (assurance/clarity of God’s call for our life) what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints (our destiny as Jesus’ inheritance), and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power… (Eph. 1:17-19)

I will pray for love to abound as Paul taught to the church in Philippi.

That your love may abound still more and more in knowledge (of God) and all discernment, 10 that you may approve (rejoice in) the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere (no compromise) and without offense till the day of Christ, 11 being filled with the fruits of righteousness… (Phil. 1:9-11)

I will serve this nation and its leaders by washing their feet as Jesus taught me at the last supper before His death, burial and resurrection.

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.(John 13:1-17)

I know our nation is in a crisis, I know that we are desperate for God’s intervention and I know that God will hold the body of Christ responsibility for our part in the iniquity in the land. The model I see is pray and serve, this is what Christ did and God intervened.

Whenever I pray God always speaks to me about my part first, whenever I look at something that is wrong God always speaks to me how I can be a part of the change, funny but the Christians who blame others never seem to be concerned about their part in the mess! I think that is unbalanced. We will always be called to point out evil and to remove it but we are unbalanced if we do not point to what is right and support and model righteousness. God judged the world not by condemning it but by modeling through Jesus Christ the right way to love Him. We make our words and works of none effect if we never witness the truth.

In the crisis of Abortion and Same Sex Marriage (Homosexuality) which have both resulted in laws being made that oppose God’s law we know God will then rise up and bring His rule of government. How does God’s Government rule? This is the pattern we must follow. God is very specific in His instructions and He follows a very clear set of principles that operate His Kingdom. We must be in agreement with His way in order to have His blessing and His authority operating in our lives. God is very clear that those who carry His government must adhere to certain standards and they must be willing to obey Him at all costs.

His word declares that judgment pointing out what is right and wrong and bring power to rule over what is wrong) would come to the House of God first. We have no authority over any other governing body until we are seated in God’s authority in our own house.

There are two powers that rule through Abortion and Homosexuality, they are Murder and Immorality. If we were to operate in a power and authority from the governing body of Christ than we must rid ourselves of these two evils. You can’t judge without being judged. And this is a good thing! We want to be judged so we can walk in that authority and governing power.

The prophet Malachi told us that the spirit of Elijah would come and it would be a refiner’s fire and a cleansing agent and turn the hearts of the Father to the children. It is more than just children; it is their future and our inheritance.

If the prayer movement which is the Spirit of Elijah is where it should be (right with God) than judgment should be coming to the house of the Lord this year.

For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? (1 Peter 4:17)

Women Who Minster in Prayer

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When the Lord told me there was a crisis in the land to drop everything and surround the House of Prayer to strengthen the leaders and strengthen the National prayer movement our nation is in crisis. He said it is just like Israel when she is under attack and in crisis we are to drop everything and surround her. So I left building the house of prayer in Columbus and returned to IHOPKC. I was thankful in all honesty because I never wanted to leave in the first place. Even though the Lord sent me from Columbus Ohio to be trained to raise up a house of prayer when I came to IHOPKC He invited me to pour into this ministry and He would do something greater in Ohio. My heart accepted and gave myself to that call wholeheartedly. The entire time I believed that all I did to serve here was in fact like sowing into Ohio. It again is like the principle of Israel when we bless that nation we receive the blessing here.

So I lived in both places in the spirit just like now I live in both this nation and Israel ever mindful that I am a watchman on the wall.

 

As a woman I am very careful of how I support leaders. I am even more careful because I am a single woman and many of the leaders are men. Because of this I don’t ever want to be in a compromising situation. In fact I am relentless in being sure that I don’t compromise either myself or leaders with even the appearance of evil. Thankful for the ministry I received in Bible College and the principal my pastor shared about how he dated his wife for seven years before marrying her but even though he knew she was the one he told her he would never compromise the anointing on his life for her. In that statement he proceeded to explain to us how he rides in the back of vehicle if a female is driving but that it is better if he was never in that situation, he would train us to minister women to women and men to men and continually we were reminded through instructors how not to even allow the compromise of the appearance of evil be among us. We were to go out in groups and never be alone with the opposite sex. This wisdom set a precedence in how men were to treat women that there was an honor established in our relationships that first we would honor God by not appearing evil even if our intent was not evil for the sake of the Lord, the ministry we would honor this restraint. Secondly it told me that what God has given us as ministers was far more valuable than a simple pleasure of the soul or a matter of convenience. I discovered this principal was VERY inconvenient and often cost us time and difficulties to accomplish the will of God and honor one another and it certainly affected our social life. But there comes a point in every believer when you want more than convenience and a social life…He is worth it!

 

From this marking of the Lord I have always looked for men’s wives in ministry. I have by the Holy Spirit been instructed to always connect with wives and even family members to never put a minister in compromise. This is as important for them as it is for me. Because prayer is such an intimate ministry often when you pray for someone the Lord can reveal things and how we steward that is very important to the Lord. He desires that we be above reproach in all we do before the people and behind closed doors. I don’t ever want to be different behind closed doors than I am in front of the people.

 

Coming to IHOPKC the Lord instructed me as He has done since I came to the Lord in 1986, to pray for the leaders. When I first got saved I began to go to the church to pray. Every morning at 6am I would enter into the most glorious world of intercession. My pastor was there, it was not a corporate prayer but we did have leadership on what to pray, it was an hour and the format was from Larry Lea. This session of prayer included praying for the church and the pastor. We were free to walk around the sanctuary and pray at leisure. It was this discipline at the beginning of my birth in Christ that I was not only marked for intercession but I was marked to pray for leaders.

 

I had a second encounter in 1998 where the Lord visited me in a profound three day encounter and during that time I believe an angel visited me to manifest the anointing the Lord was giving my by placing a sword on each of my shoulders. This encounter resulted in a greater anointing to pray for leaders and following the years of training in bible college I began to see into the souls of men’s hearts and motives. For the most part it was good things about the ministry and what God had placed in them to do for the Lord but it also revealed something that were not so good. The training I received was done in prayer and through prayer. I didn’t really talk to anyone about what I saw because I believed all that God revealed to me was for me to pray about and I took it very seriously. I believe when we pray for leaders we are called to pray for their entire family and I took that very seriously. I didn ‘t fellowship with these leaders, I never spent any time with them in the natural. My entire connection was in the place of prayer and today some 14 years later it is still there in the spirit and in prayer. I don’t ever desire anything more. Prayer is the highest calling to me because it is so near to the Lord who I love so much and I believe my ministry in prayer is my ministry to the Lord. It is His heart that He shares when I see what I see and it is always about Him and the ones He loves, I am just a partner in it all and consider it a privilege and honor not something I would  boast about or broadcast about but one I consider most important to the Lord. The reason I do is because the first few days I spent here at IHOPKC when I came for a conference the Lord spoke clearly to me that I could and did do many things in the ministry but this calling, to pray, was what He wanted and what mattered most to Him.

 

My caution is as intercessors and as single women that we would never take the place of a leader’s wife by praying without her any more than we would take the place of the body of Christ without praying with her, the mystery is the marriage is like Christ and the Bride we must never think we can do this without the fullness. I think God calls families and when we pray for the whole family we honor God and when we pray for the Lord we pray for the whole church, no matter their denomination and no matter their revelation they matter to Him so they matter to us. As a single woman I think this is protection to not only keep from appearances but to keep that place of protection around our leaders.

 

I believe this is an hour when we need to see women’s place in ministry and that she be properly aligned with men.  In all cases I think men need to manifest their wives. By this I mean we should know who she is and how she is by seeing her on a regular basis. This puts us at ease and we know we can trust a man who is good fellowship with his wife. It is also that a man who has children would manifest them also, as many leaders are seen as fathers, it helps us trust a man whose children are beside him, healthy and happy. No man should sacrifice his family for the ministry; a man who ministers without his family is a warning to us that he has something wrong at home. This is always the priority that home ministry be first before a corporate ministry.

 

It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. (1 Timothy 3:1)

An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, (1 Timothy 3:2)

not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. (1 Timothy 3:3)

He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (1 Timothy 3:4)

(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), (1 Timothy 3:5)

The fear of the Lord will guard and keep leadership from allowing a man to minister when his home is not ok. There is caution and I can testify to that, the fear of the Lord is a protection that we don’t open gifts before the people to minister if there is need for correction. At the same time this doesn’t mean they have to be perfect or even in order because the grace of God ministers at the heart level. A man or woman can be pursuing righteousness, make a heart commitment and the grace of God will cover them as they walk through the path to wholeness.

I do not believe that women “rule” over men. It is a difficult opportunity if a woman is given leadership over a man in ministry. This opportunity should be taken with much fear of the Lord. I believe that gifts can manifest an order but in all things she would be a servant in heart and leadership so that you don’t see her as a ruler but rather a partner. Jesus models this so well He doesn’t manifest His leadership as ruling over us but He invited us and never exercises His will over us but invites us. We can serve and still lead but we never have to “rule” over someone. The greatest leaders are servants. The more responsibility we have the lower we go in leadership to serve. I say lower because the fear of the Lord humbles us to a place of utter dependence on God, not arrogance or pride, it’s really the opposite. Strength in leadership can be seen in how you are behind closed doors, you may have a platform but true leadership is often done in the things no one sees.

A message to the Church who Voted for Obama

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 Message to Those Who Voted for Obama:

I must speak for the Lord as He has convicted my heart that to remain Silent would be a sin in and of itself. I have an obligation as one who has chosen a life of a Messenger. This means that I am committed to speak what God is speaking and be a light, a burning lamp in the midst of a people who have risen against God’s will.

The difference is we have a witness. There are four years of leadership that did not change and did not relent in the area of abortion or homosexuality. I have the utmost respect for the President and his administration. I took an active role of intercession this last year so I was able to support and pray for that very administration which had I not done that I would not have a place to speak on this issue.  Our first place is always to pray for God’s will before we can confront it. We must truly understand the office, the requirements and understand if there truly is another way.

Not only was there another way God clearly gave us that way, He put up a man who made clear that he would end abortion and stand for marriage as one women and one man. God sent a man who was willing to uphold God’s will and for this we had no excuse. God gave America a way out but more importantly He answered the prayers of the church.

I was careful to pray for both men knowing that God must ultimately direct me. As my dear leader Lou Engle pointed out Hitler’s agenda had all the right language in the beginning and multitudes were deceived. I waited patiently and prayed for both candidates and their families knowing God would give me clear direction. He did, God is just and He is longing for all men to come to repentance, His love for the President is very real, His compassion and loving kindness even for those choosing sin and evil is beyond my mental capacity to grasp but I want to love like God loves.

In the face of the most clearest choice we have ever been given I felt so charged that we walk even in such a clear choice with the fear of the Lord not aligning ourselves with men but with God and God alone. The agendas had such mixture so there were issues but God had no issue He spoke and He directed on the day of the election He was very clear in His will.

I address this to the church, to the bride of Christ who has committed her life to the Lordship of the Jesus Christ. To claim Jesus Christ as Lord and to vote for a man who clearly has no intention of ending the murder of babies nor honoring the sanctity of marriage we must take a stand. I have great confidence that God’s will shall be done with such beauty and glory in spite of man’s agenda but we must understand that the office of the Lord, the government of God was given to the church and as the numbers show the church didn’t represent God’s heart.

If we walk past this moment causally it is like the days of Joel, the days of Ezekiel …the blood God will require on our hands. We must warn the body of Christ that this action, it was more than believing but an acting on that iniquity, a choice a decision that has recompense. There is a window of repentance, there is an unveiling in the glory of His appearing, I believe the visitation that is coming is to reveal the hearts of men. The blindness will be removed for a moment and if our hearts are pure God will rend the hearts of His people.

If we take this outpouring as an opportunity to condemn or exalt ourselves we will be charged with the same sin and our priesthood removed but if we humble ourselves, seeking God’s mercy for the sake of a generation we will see a great revival. It is a most critical moment and our hearts must be to fall on our face before the Lord and cry out for mercy. He is longing to respond to hearts poured out.
Lou Engle’s message to the church regarding elections: http://www.charismanews.com/opinion/34408-lou-engle-ponders-prophetic-implications-of-romney-vote

Bible Study: The Beasts of Revelation 13 and Daniel 7

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And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. (Revelation 13:1)

And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. (Revelation 13:2)

 

 

THE SANDS OF THE SEA

And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. (Revelation 13:1)

Isaiah also cries out concerning Israel: “Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, The remnant will be saved. (Romans 9:27)

blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies. (Genesis 22:17)

 

The sands of the sea are the children of Israel. John who is having this vision is standing in the position that is upon the sands of the sea also known as the children of Israel which are in multitudes. We see elsewhere in scripture where this reference is made (Romans 9:27; Genesis 22:17)

The position John was in when seeing this is upon giving him a view of a power over Israel. The word upon is the Greek word epi (1909Greek) which means against, over, in position on or over and it translates before a rough breaking (like the calm before the storm)

Thayer translates this using another scripture in the same context

Who alone stretches out the heavens And tramples down (upon) the waves of the sea; (Job 9:8)

Thayer says it is like a motion standing still but headed in a direction using the servants in who went to the vineyard but they hadn’t been hired yet. They went to the vineyard with a motion to work but they were standing idle waiting to be hired. (Matthew 20:4) He also translates this word elsewhere that the reliance upon or position is because of a reliance of authority, even spiritual authority. In the case of John, his authority in Christ gave him apostolic authority which would be a position of power over while the children of Israel were coming into their own authority as revelation and understanding continued.

Perhaps the rising or motion of the children of Israel would be based on the revealing of this beast coming up out of the same sea the children of Israel were a part of…this could mean that the power that arises comes out of the same nations of the promised children of Israel. Almost as if the arise in power and turn on themselves.

The sea (2281Grk) means the restless condition of the nations. Thayer translates the  root word  of sea as salt (251 Grk)which can mean devotion to God or that which renders sterile found in the masses of mankind

James 3:7 refers to the taming of the wild beasts – perhaps this salt in the sea was meant to tame the restless condition of the nations but in fact it brought forth the beast instead. The very thing meant to bring a stronger devotion and put in motion the promise was in fact bringing forth the anti-christ by dividing and bringing against Christ.

 

DANIEL’S VISION OF THE FOUR BEASTS

In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters. (Daniel 7:1)

Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea. (Daniel 7:2)

Daniel seeking the Lord to understand His plan was taken through a vision with an angel to help him interpret what he saw. His vision came to him in the power of the night season with the accompaniment of an angelic being sent from heaven.

If you will give God your night season, tell Him He can visit you in the night, waken you to pray, share His heart with you, whatever He desires, however the Holy Spirit wants to come, if you give God this context of night and day He will come and visit because He longs for our communion.

You won’t regret it, you will find you don’t really miss the sleep when He comes there is so much revelation and understanding He gives you will find yourself satisfied as it meets your needs and fills you with hope and peace.

People who have a hard time with little sleep are actually having a hard time with unrest. The night season belongs to the Lord and He can and will have a remnant to pray with Him in the night.

Visions from the Lord come when we are awake. Dreams come when we sleep. The Lord visited Daniel and he was awake and he was seeing and was given understanding for what he saw. His communion was on the receiving end. It helps if we listen when He visits rather than talk, listen and open ourselves to see and then ask questions about what you perceive if you don’t have complete understanding. Angels will respond and so will the Holy Spirit.  If you are unsure if its an angel or not ask it “who is your Lord” if you don’t get the right response rebuke it and put everything you just heard under subjection

It is wise to take all dreams and visions and prophetic impressions before the Lord. Sit on them for a few days, pray about it ask the Lord to confirm it in the word. There should always be confirmation in the word. Often the message is partial and someone else has the rest.

The operation of team ministry allows there to be accountability for revelation. God desires the whole body to operate together. He will never give one body of believers all the revelation just as He will not give one person or gift in the body or church all the revelation. This team effort should reflect how a family operates. There are those in authority but any family knows that the children can give the most amazing revelations that can prosper and bless the whole family.

We don’t give children half a chance to release their gifts in the home. They have just as much gifting and Holy Spirit as anyone in the home, the same is true in the church. You probably wouldn’t let a 12 year old drive the car but you could ask them what they thought about the directions and the map, to see if they could see a better way. Train up a child so that when they are sixteen they can go farther than you went and take many with them.

In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters. (Daniel 7:1)

Daniel wrote down his dreams and visions. It is good to practice this as many times the language of God expressed in dreams and visions can be edifying and building to others.

The vision was of four beasts. Sometimes dreams come in symbolic theme and sometimes they are literal. This is why it is so important to keep these before the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to interpret them. They may be for someone else in which case they will have the interpretation. When the angel interprets Daniel’s vision we can see that this is symbolic.  The honor of partnering with God and being used to express His language in a dream or a vision is holy and we never want to think little of it. It is true sometimes we get dreams and visions that are for us personally and though they can edify someone they are also to help us through issues we can’t see or comprehend without more insight.

The prophetic does not puff us up or make us proud, in fact it is humbling and causes us to see that we need God and we need the working and operation of the Holy Spirit to fulfill the kingdom’s plans and purposes in the earth. The Father models for us how He works the Kingdom with His Son, His Spirit and the angelic realm. He partners with man because He loves us and wants us to be with Him building our new millennium.

We are not going to just “appear” into the future, we are going to walk into it every day as we gather together with other believers now and build it together. It is the most glorious day and calling – to partner with God in His government.

 

HEBREW WORD STUDY OF DANIEL 7:1-7

In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his bed: then he wrote the dream, and told the sum of the matters. (Daniel 7:1)

Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove upon the great sea. (Daniel 7:2)

The Hebrew word for four  is araba (703Heb) and the Hebrew word for  winds  isruwach (7308Heb) which means birthed out of the sea (promised land of Israel)

Four lands of promise=Syria, Jordan, Iraq, Israel

And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another. (Daniel 7:3)

The Hebrew word for beasts  (2423Heb)– which means beast/animal and the root word is chaya (2418heb) kept alive or spared alive  and the corresponding word chayah (2421heb) means revival bring from sickness to life – or sustain life – preserve live – restore to health – to quicken from death, discouragement

This interpretation tells me it could be good or it could be evil. So often we hear the word “beast” and interpret that as evil when they are God’s creation. There are beasts in heaven…the word “to live” chayah means living creatures. God created everything beautiful but the devil tries to pervert it.

The first was like a lion….(Daniel 7:4)

The Hebrew word for lion is aryeh (744Heb) which means lion but it comes from the root word airy (738Heb) which comes from arah (717Heb)which means violence and to gather, to pluck

 and had eagle’s wings…(Daniel 7:4)

….I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it. (Daniel 7:4)

The Hebrew word for eagle is Nashar (5403Heb)  which means eagle, vulture and the rood word is Nesher (5404Heb) which means to lacerate

and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man….(Daniel 7:4)

rose up to a high place setting itself apart but by reason of the people of the land or inhabitants of the territory it was made exposed and bare and eventually it became its own soldiers forming friends /scoffers/ scorners amongst themselves and 

and a man’s heart was given to it. (Daniel 7:4)

They became understanding of one another’s hearts – giving themselves wholehearted to this will /determination of will/ passionate way

And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear…..(Daniel 7:5)

The Hebrew word for bear is dob (1677Heb) and the root word is (1680Heb) which means Slow move – gliding along – self serving – focused on one side – believe the “good news” bringing and proclaiming the good news – even messengers – carrying the good news

And it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth…..(Daniel 7:5)

….of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh. (Daniel 7:5)

The word for three is the Hebrew word T@lath which corresponds to Shalowsh (7969Heb) also means three pronged temple structure – chambers/support system that when it comes together it sounds like they are all saying the same thing but they are 3 separate approaches yet seem uniform

The root word for mouth is Peh (6310Heb) which is an organ of speech or counsel and the root word for between is Beyn (996) which means in the midst of corresponding tothe word Biyn (995Heb) which means discern, have understanding, gives interpretation, perceive, taught gain, skilled.

and they maliciously accuse one another to the point of slander purposing to bring light to the error of the others ways and yet they are actually in the midst of the exact same thing- they may even be kindred to one another  – of their  own kind and yet different enough to accuse the others  yet at the same time looking uniform while lustful and wanting what the other has-

After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, (Daniel 7:6)

The Hebrew word for leopard is Namer (5246Heb) and the root words are nimrah (5247Heb) and  Namer (5246Heb) meaning  out of Jordan Great and and Hpuerperissos (5249Heb) and Huper (5228 Heb) and  perissos (4057Heb) (4053Heb) and peri (4012Heb) peran (4008Heb) meaning beyond measure extraordinary – with superiority, remarkable superfluous, abundant uncommon regarding the surroundings, condition, neighborhoods, 

East of Jordan north of the dead sea (Jerusalem)- government

To pierce the other side – the extraordinary

…which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; (Daniel 7:6)

The word root word for wings is gaph(1610Heb) which means body, self, elevation, highest places, himself and the Hebrew word for fowl  is owph (5776Heb) corresponding to owph (5774Heb) and uwph(5774Heb) meaning flying creatures, give cover, cause to fly upon giving the allusion of protection through worship of bodies, higher places, augmented and conveying a shield

The root word for back is gab (1353Heb) positioned one to mate (worship) the beast – caused one to lay down to be bred – lay down your gender- breeding together – mating genders – promising a covering –making you shine

the beast had also four heads; (Daniel 7:6)

The word for fouris interpreted: four divisions, four chiefs, four nations – four priests – four heads of cities – four companies

and dominion was given to it. (Daniel 7:6)

The Hebrew word for dominion is Sholtan (7985Heb)  and the root word sh@let (7981Hwb) and corresponds to shalat (7980Heb) giving you power to rule over and power to assault – have mastery while being overpowered – power to make rulers – dominate – lord it over, master  domineer, exercised authority because don’t really have authority

seems like a system/govt offering protection but setting you up for the anti-christ

After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful (Daniel 7:7)

The Hebrew word dreadful is D@chal(1763 Heb) and corresponds to Zachal (2119Heb)causing fear and to be feared – dreaded terrible – causing one shrink back

and terrible (Daniel 7:7)

The Hebrew word for terrible is  emtaniy (0574Heb) and the root corresponding word is Mothen (4975Heb) meaning strutting to over power and prevail over hearts ,loins, bodies, sides, backs, and waist

with extraordinary/extremely/ plenty/w/ excess/ more than enough/left over/remnant/leave plenty/prosper you abundantly

The strutting rooster, the male goat also, And a king when his army is with him. (Proverbs 30:31)

            …and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth it devoured and brake in pieces the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns. (Daniel 7:7)

The Hebrew root word for strong is rab (7227Heb) and Rabab (7231 Heb)  which means champion/chief/strong great/ multitude/greater/ abundant; to become a great many tens of thousands/ increase/multiplied increase/more in number;

The Hebrew word for exceedingly is Yattiyr (3493Heb) and corresponds to Yattiyr (3492Heb) and Yathar (3498Heb) which means a woman whose beauties are apparent– to sharpen – material/commerce – tine(tune in to hear)Maliciously accused/ slander; Make appear/bring to light/expose/appear in the mind/strike the sight/become evident; appeared in the midst and between

The Hebrew word for iron is barzel (1270Heb) which means oppress, and stamped, trampled/submitted thyself/trampled under footand Birzowth(1269Heb) which means wounds w/ a well of olives; in leanness -choice olive to teach diligently

The Hebrew word for break in pieces  is D@qaq (1855Heb) and Daqaq(1854Heb) and the root word Hadak (1915Heb) which means fall, break, shatter, crush, pulverize, thresh, ground to powder, tread down, oppress, and stamped, trampled, submitted thyself, trampled under foot

All God’s Children Need A Place To Express Their Extravagant Devotion to God

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Now Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son crippled in his feet. He was five years old when the report of Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel, and his nurse took him up and fled. And it happened that in her hurry to flee, he fell and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth. (2 Samuel 4:4)

Then David said, “Is there yet anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”  (2 Samuel 9:1-7)

 

 ALL CHILDREN NEED A PLACE TO EXPRESS THEIR EXTRAVAGANT DEVOTION TO GO

Jesus said, “Let the children alone, don’t hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to these.” (Matt 19:14)

 

Now Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a son crippled in his feet. He was five years old when the report of Saul and Jonathan came from Jezreel, and his nurse took him up and fled. And it happened that in her hurry to flee, he fell and became lame. And his name was Mephibosheth. (2 Samuel 4:4)

Saul had a grandson, Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth. When he was five years old his father Jonathan and grandfather Saul were killed. Fear struck his caregiver and she fled their home thinking they would come for Mephibosheth and kill him also. While she was running she fell and dropped the young boy. This fall resulted in crippling him.

So the king said to him, “Where is he (Mephibosheth)?” And Ziba said to the king, “Behold, he is in the house of Machir the son of Ammiel in Lo-debar.” (2 Samuel 9:4)

The nurse, fearing for his life had taken Mephibosheth to Lodebar and raised him there. The word Lo-debar   means without pasture, no word, no communication.

“If I am still alive, will you not show me the loving-kindness of the LORD, that I may not die? (1 Samuel 20:14)

“You shall not cut off your loving-kindness from my house forever, not even when the LORD cuts off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth.” (1 Samuel 20:15)

So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, “May the LORD require it at the hands of David’s enemies.” (1 Samuel 20:16)

Jonathan made David vow again because of his love for him, because he loved him as he loved his own life. (1 Samuel 20:17)

David had a covenant with Jonathan. That covenant was to bless the house of Jonathan. That covenant meant David must find the sons and daughters of Jonathan and be sure they were in the land of provision. To care for them as he would his own sons.

Mephibosheth was Jonathan’s son and was part of that covenant. His father and grandfather are gone and where he was now is without pasture, his place of abode is without word and without communication. It was not a place of provision. He had shelter from immediate danger but he was not in the place of prosperity for his family.

God knew Mephibosheth. He knew his condition; God was going to bring Mephibosheth to a place of provision, to a place of communication, to a table spread for him to feast and put him with family.

God’s Kingdom is established on families. He builds, rebuilds and restores families.

Covenant relationships go beyond the difficulties, challenges brought on by other family members, war, famine, destruction can’t destroy covenant. David knew that Jonathan though bound to serve his father, had a covenant with God and that relationship affected the way he treated Jonathan.It had a three-fold approach because David’s covenant with God.

Now it came about when he had finished speaking to Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as himself. (1 Samuel 18:1)

Jonathan remained faithful to his father, Saul and yet the covenant they had before the Lord was touching into eternity, it reached into the future and touched another generation.

Then David said, “Is there yet anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”(2 Samuel 9:1)

The blessing of the covenant went beyond Mephibosheth it touched his children also.

David said to him, “Do not fear, for I will surely show kindness to you for the sake of your father Jonathan, and will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul; and you shall eat at my table regularly.” (2 Samuel 9:7)

Mephibosheth had a young son whose name was Mica. And all who lived in the house of Ziba were servants to Mephibosheth. (2 Samuel 9:12)

So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, for he ate at the king’s table regularly. Now he was lame in both feet. (2 Samuel 9:13)

 

WEAKNESS IS STRENGTH IN GOD’S KINGDOM

Jesus said, “Let the children alone, don’t hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to these.” (Matt 19:14)

but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” I will all the more gladly boast of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

 

The power of God’s covenant with man can takes the weakest,  most unlikely and astounds the wisest and most wealthy. Someone so simple and innocent as a child could hold the very key to unlocking an entire nation.

Indeed, the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect for ever. (Hebrews 7:28)

 

David’s obedience to honor his covenant with God and with man ended the famine in the land. He took the lowly and sat them at the king’s table. He punished and released justice on the enemy who had brought destruction to Israel.

David made the wrong things right.

God makes available all provision but He requires we receive it on His terms. We can’t manipulate God or tell Him how to bring it and when to bring it. What we can do is partner with Him, believe Him at His word and follow through on all His commandments no matter how difficult they may be.

Sometimes doing the right thing means being humiliated. In that day to take in a crippled was demeaning much less have him sit at the King’s table as equal. Here was the “unlikely” and the socially “unacceptable” but David didn’t look on the physical appearance nor did he care what others thought of him, David did what was honorable.

Today our society is filled with a generation of young people who don’t “fit” into our standard of acceptable. (who made “that” standard anyway?)They may have a different look, they may have a different form, their appearance or the way they act may seem unacceptable but we must see as God sees, looking through His eyes who sees the “heart of man”. Our weaknesses become His strength.

But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature……for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

When God choose David he was the youngest of the sons of Jesse, perhaps his father thought he would be the least likely to be king but God knew David. He was communing with him in the shepherd’s pasture.

God knows this generation. Every single child whether they are completely whole and placed in a godly family or they are an orphan without a mother or father or they were born with a debilitating deformity in their body or brain. God knows the number of hairs on their head. He hears them, He watches over them and He has a plan for each and every one of them

If we are listening to Him, He will tell us His plan for these precious ones. He will share His heart with us and give us the most honorable pleasure of partnering with Him to bring them to their call and destiny in life.

Each child, formed in their mother’s womb has purpose, God has a plan for their life. Not one is less than any other, they each have value and are worth the price of His Son’s death. No matter the physical condition, the outward appearance, the inward struggle, the life choices or circumstances that put them in unlikely dispositions. Each and every one is of the utmost importance to God.

Mephibosheth had a place, it was at the kings palace, it was at His table, it was in His provision, it was to be cared for and to be heard, to listen to and to have a relationship with. Mephibosheth has covenant value. The power of that covenant can override every circumstance.

The power of the covenant Jesus sealed was the same covenant God made with Abraham; “You will be a father of a multitude of nations.”

“No longer shall your name be called Abram, But your name shall be Abraham; For I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. (Genesis 17:5)

Jesus sealed that covenant with His blood and made us family. As family we must take the place and care for our family, we must draw the family into the Promised Land. We must make a place of worship and communion for the family. This was why God set apart Abraham to bring him into a land where he could worship with his family all the days of his life. And each generation following would have a land where they could express their love to God.

Today we have shut the doors on our “sanctuaries” and only allow worship once or twice a week for a few hours. And yet the tabernacles in the bible was open 24/7 and the priests worked the altars night and day.

When God expressed His heart for a dwelling place it included musicians and singers. It was arrayed in the finest and it took much resource to build it and maintain it.

 In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom…saying, …All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD God of heaven has given me. And He has commanded me to build Him a house at Jerusalem…Who is among you of all His people? May his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem…and build the house of the LORD… Whoever is left…help him with gold…freewill offerings for the house of God… The heads of the fathers’ houses…with all whose spirits God had moved, arose to go up and build the house of the Lord… (Ezra 1:1-5)

Both the singers and the gatekeepers kept the charge of their God…according to the command of David… In the days of Zerubbabel and in the days of Nehemiah all Israel gave the portions for the singers and the gatekeepers, a portion for each day. (Neh. 12:45-47)

They had 200 men and women singers… (Ezra 2:65)

The Lord did not spare but He put it in the hearts of His people that this place of communion was to be a Holy Place and what transpired as the people came to communion with Him was to be provided for and protected.

It was the king’s command concerning them that a certain portion should be for the singers, a quota day by day. Pethahiah…was the king’s deputy in all matters… (Neh. 11:23-24)

It was a place of worship, it was a place of prayer and it was a place where His Presence dwelt among the people where He communed with them and gave His instruction.

I [Darius] issue a decree as to what you shall do…for the building of this house of God: Let the cost be paid at the king’s expense… that they may offer sacrifices of sweet aroma to the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king and his sons. (Ezra 6:8-10)

God directed the government to assure that this place be provided for and those who would give themselves to this service were to have provision.

When the adversaries of Judah…heard that the descendants of the captivity were building the temple of the LORD…The people of the land tried to discourage the people of Judah. They troubled them in building,  and hired counselors against them to frustrate their purpose … Thus the work of the house of God which is at Jerusalem ceased and it was discontinued until the second year of the reign of Darius (Ezra 4:1-5, 24)

Even the enemy knew this would be devastating to their camps so they attempted to stop the work of the Lord. But God sent word, He spoke through His Prophets to not neglect the work of building the House of Worship and Prayer.

Then the prophet Haggai and Zechariah…prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah…2 So Zerubbabel…and Jeshua…rose up and began to build the house of God which is in Jerusalem; and the prophets of God were with them, helping them. (Ezra 5:1-2)

Jesus came to seal the instructions for what His Father had intended for this temple, this place they were to gather.

And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer….. (Matthew 21:13)

 

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A GENERATION

As He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3)

 

It is important that we are seeking and asking the Lord what is to come. As the church we are to be prepared to give answer in that hour. To have leadership in our nation now and then, to lead society to wholeness and to peace.

The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD’s: but the earth has he given to the children of men.(Psalms 115:16)

`Then the sovereignty, the dominion and the greatness of all the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be given to the people of the saints of the Highest One; His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all the dominions will serve and obey Him.’(Daniel 7:27)

We have been given the government of God, the ruling power and dominion in the earth.

And he said to him, “Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.‘ (Luke 19:17)

 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”(Genesis 1:28)

And I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19)

This authority that the Father has given us through Christ is something we must give account for, we will be held accountable for how we steward our authority. We have to answer to the Lord just as the servants given the minas in the parable of the talents. If we are faithful we will rule with Him throughout eternity. If not we will face judgment.

And [said Jesus,] I tell you that to everyone who gets and has will more be given, but from the man who does not get and does not have, even what he has will be taken away. (Luke 19:26)

It is in our power to bless and be a blessing. We must bless, be faithful over what and where God has given us influence and authority. It begins at home and continues in our ministry, our workplace, our church, our city, state and nation.

you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:5)

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; (1 Peter 2:9)

The position we have as priests, a holy priesthood before the Lord ministering to Him we are also responsible to minister to the people what we have heard. God will have a people stand before Him and speak His word to the people so that truth is made known.

and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.” (Exodus 19:6)

LISTEN TO me, O isles and coastlands, and hearken, you peoples from afar. The Lord has called me from the womb; from the body of my mother He has named my name. (Isaiah 49:1)

And He has made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of His hand has He hid me and made me a polished arrow; in His quiver has He kept me close and concealed me. (Isaiah 49:2)

We will be held accountable to minister our gifts to equip the body of Christ for that day (the great and terrible day of the Lord) and every day.

I will also give you for a light to the nations, that My salvation may extend to the end of the earth. (Isaiah 49:6)

And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, (Ephesians 4:11)

to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, (Ephesians 4:12)

until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; (Ephesians 4:13)

so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the cunning of men, by their craftiness in deceitful wiles. (Ephesians 4:14)

This generation is the leadership of our nation. We must give them every resource to equip them. They will be the voice in the midst of kingdom coming against kingdom and nation against nation. They will be the one on the wall declaring to us what is coming and leading the multitudes to provision and safety. They must have the place of worship and the place before the Lord to hear and to speak.

And Jesus answered and said to them, See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, `I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many. “You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. (Matthew 24:4-6))

We really can spare no expense. God will require it of us to equip them, to resource them, to bless them, to make available a place to worship a place to pray a place to seek His face and hear His voice.

“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs. Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another. .(Matthew 24:7-10)

They will be the prophets, the teachers the evangelists that bring the revival, the last Great Awakening, they are the generation that will usher in the return of Christ.

Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. (Matthew 24:34)

 

Many of these signs are already taking place and we know His Return is near. We must be like the ten virgins who got oil, we must be preparing and be prepared for the hour and the day. Everyday communion, every day meditation in His Word, every day worshiping and preparing a habitation for the Lord to dwell. He has the mysteries of heaven to reveal to these His Children, we must give them a place, equip them in this hour, let none of them be hindered from coming to Him.

Jesus said, “Let the children alone, don’t hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to these.” (Matt 19:14)

 

Israel’s Global Leadership – Prophets and Priests

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and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.” (Exodus 19:6)

LISTEN TO me, O isles and coastlands, and hearken, you peoples from afar. The Lord has called me from the womb; from the body of my mother He has named my name. (Isaiah 49:1)

And He has made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of His hand has He hid me and made me a polished arrow; in His quiver has He kept me close and concealed me. (Isaiah 49:2)

And [the Lord] said to me, You are My servant, Israel [you who strive with God and with men and prevail], in whom I will be glorified. (Isaiah 49:3)

I will also give you for a light to the nations, that My salvation may extend to the end of the earth. (Isaiah 49:6)

 

ISRAEL’S LEADERSHIP TO THE NATIONS

“Now it shall be, if you diligently obey the LORD your God, being careful to do all His commandments which I command you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. (Deuteronomy 28:1)

“Nations will come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising. (Isaiah 60:3)

“Lift up your eyes round about and see; They all gather together, they come to you. Your sons will come from afar, And your daughters will be carried in the arms. (Isaiah 60:4)

“Then you will see and be radiant, And your heart will thrill and rejoice; Because the abundance of the sea will be turned to you, The wealth of the nations will come to you. (Isaiah 60:5)

 

Isaiah, the Lord’s prophet to Israel, declares that the nations will come to Israel gathering under her leadership. Israel will be radiant, full of the wealth of the nations; kings will come to the brightness of your leadership.

And kings to the brightness of your rising. (Isaiah 60:3)

The Hebrew word for rising  is the word Zerach (2225Heb) which means to arise, dawning: to become light in the morning, to appear, develop or emerge, to perceive and understand

And the Gentiles shall come to thy light (Isaiah 60:3)

The Hebrew word for light is the word Owr (216Heb) which means light of life, light of instruction, light of prosperity, light of day, Jehovah as Israel’s light. This is the same light Saul saw on the road to Damascus, the light brought revelation that changed his entire future. The light was enough to cause him to be willing to die for it. This light transformed him from the inside out. This is the creation light of Genesis 1:3.

And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: (Acts 9:3)

And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. (Genesis 1:3)

This would signify to us Israel has not yet come into her fullness, there is a creative power that transforms men still yet to be released to lead the nations. This is why we pray for Israel, we are in desperate need of the fulfillment of these promises; we are need of Israel to take her place.

The word come  is the Hebrew word Halak (1980Heb) which means to have access to, a manner of life, cause to walk  and from this we can surmise that God wants our partnership with Israel in order for that to then flow through us also. Our partnership with Israel brings that creative power and transforming light to come through us.

“Kings will be your guardians, And their princesses your nurses. They will bow down to you with their faces to the earth And lick the dust of your feet; And you will know that I am the LORD; Those who hopefully wait for Me will not be put to shame. (Isaiah 49:23)

“Foreigners will build up your walls, And their kings will minister to you; For in My wrath I struck you, And in My favor I have had compassion on you. (Isaiah 60:10)

If we try to lead Israel it won’t work, if we try to pass our agenda onto Israel it won’t work, our partnership is under their leadership meaning we serve Israel. This provokes those with arrogance to think they can replace Israel. God’s order is absolute truth.

And to make thee (Israel) high above all nations which he hath made, in praise, and in name, and in honor; and that you may be a holy people unto the LORD thy God, as He hath spoken.”(Deuteronomy 26:19)

Israel however takes the position Jesus did at the last supper. He girded Himself with a towel and washed the disciples’ feet. We need washing; we need to return to truth, we need the revelation, light, illumination Israel contains.

Interesting things happen when someone takes the position to serve, things rise to the top, the true nature arises. It can be good or it can be evil.

“For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.”(Zechariah 14:2)

“Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.”(Matthew 24:9)

 

And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.”(Luke 21:24)

“I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat, and will plead with them there for my people and for my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and parted my land.”(Joel3:2)

The bible testifies that the nations will serve Israel and if they refuse to stand with her in her greatest hour they will be devastated.

“For the nation and the kingdom which will not serve you will perish, And the nations will be utterly ruined. (Isaiah 60:12)

Jesus taught us about serving. It is more than lip service, it takes more than helping, it takes real humility. Humility comes from a love that releases purifying, cleansing and removes accusation. ….taking a towel, He girded Himself. (John 13:4)

Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. (John 13:5)

Jesus told the disciples they would be rejected but He demonstrated His love washes, His love cleanses, His love prepares us in rest and to witness the most devastating circumstances yet know He will always wash us from it.

For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you. (John 13:15)

“Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. (John 13:16)

“If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. (John 13:17)

Perhaps it was easy for Jesus to wash the feet of those disciples who loved Him but Jesus washed all their feet, even Judas who was to be the very one who would betray Him. He considered that equally important and necessary, saying “a slave (one in bondage) is not greater than his master” and the way to stay free from offense….wash their feet!

For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you. (John 13:15)

This powerful truth will be demonstrated in the end when all the nations rage against Jerusalem who has been serving and blessing the very same ones. Knowing this, reading the text and knowing this we must understand that is Israel’s deliverance. Their position to bless, to serve, to partner now will keep them free in the day they all turn against her.

men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. (Luke 21:26)

“But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)

Jesus follows up this teaching with the reality that their obedience to love and serve now will give them fruit in the day the trees are removed. The fig tree that has no fruit will be removed but Israel if you will take your place of leadership, if you will wash the gentile nations now I will preserve you in that Great and Terrible day.

Then He told them a parable: “Behold the fig tree and all the trees; (Luke 21:29)

as soon as they put forth leaves, you see it and know for yourselves that summer is now near. (Luke 21:30)

“So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near. (Luke 21:31)

“Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all things take place. (Luke 21:32)

True leadership is servant leadership. To serve, to wash, to love unconditionally, to stay in the humble position, to not exert or exercise dominion, not to be over powering, over bearing commanding and demanding but lead by example and find that serving is loving, giving is truly the way to receive.

“So you also, when you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near. (Luke 21:31)

 

Partnering With Government as Priests (Prayer Movement)

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and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.” (Exodus 19:6)

Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. (Romans 13:1-4)

 

ALL GOVERNMENT IS ESTABLISHED BY GOD

 

From the beginning of time God set up Governing Authority. The first governing authority was Adam and from there God continued to delegate His Authority to man. Once we understand that “the office” or “position” of authority comes from God then we can partner with Him. It matters not as much that the ruler is righteous as it does that we are and that we take our rightful place in partnership with Him.

But God is the Judge; He puts down one and exalts another. (Psalm 75:7)

We lose much time, opportunity and leadership struggling with the one who is in authority rather than focusing on God who put that person in position and can remove them just the same. Our faith is in God not in man. Men are weak, can make mistakes are prone to fall but God is faithful, everlasting, doesn’t ever lie and has ALL authority and power.

Daniel said, “Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, For wisdom and power belong to Him. (Daniel 2:20)

“It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men And knowledge to men of understanding. (Daniel 2:21)

“It is He who reveals the profound and hidden things; He knows what is in the darkness, And the light dwells with Him. (Daniel 2:22)

God doesn’t need us but He wants us. He can rule the earth Himself but that wasn’t the plan. He created man, gave him ruling power and equipped him to run the kingdom with His Son. When Adam gave that authority to Satan things got a little complicated but the plan never changed, man still had dominion authority he was just sharing it with Satan or God, his choice.

In the Covenant that God provided there was made provision for the ruling power of God in partnership with man but it was contingent on keeping the covenant and the law. This was possible but not without a continual communion with the Father. Not many were successful as we follow Israel’s continual rebellion.

Today through Jesus Christ that authority can be completely a sealed partnership with no authority of Satan if we choose rightly. That choice begins with our complete surrender to the

And I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19)

Once we establish God’s authority in our life we are ready to partner with Government in our city, state and nation. The gospel is the release of that authority in transformation. The gospel transforms the souls of men, the land, the church, the culture, society and nations.

“I have manifested Your name (living witness) to the men whom You gave Me out of the world; they were Yours and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. (John 17:6)

Jesus commissioned the disciples to bring the witness of this power and make disciples by teaching, demonstrating, and witnessing true authority, true government.

Effective teaching comes from a living witness. Jesus witnessed to the world the authority of God over death, hell and the grave and we have the same commission. This includes restoring authority to God’s original plan. Man partnered with God ruling the Kingdom.

Recognizing that rulers are subject to God and that all authority comes from Him than if they refuse to give God leadership, God will give it to a man who will submit. That means if we are not in our place of partnership than God will search for a man to put in that place. So often we are hung up on the “official title” when an unrighteous ruler actually has to submit to God’s authority in the earth or they will have no authority.

For you granted him (Jesus) authority over all people (John 17:2)

Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:20)

This doesn’t mean that we rule over every man because ruler-ship is actually servant based, Jesus who was Lord of all came humbly to serve man by laying down His life but He had all the authority to call all of heaven to obey. His model is what we follow. He girded Himself and washed the feet of those He had leadership over. He poured His life out to a city, a people and loved them and spoke the truth. He never compromised on His mission. He is the standard of government.

True leadership can be seen by the anointing and the demonstration of power that comes with that office. The High Priest was set by God in the land as His authority. Even if someone is given the office of authority it takes partnership with God to truly rule the land. The commission and partnership of the High Priest was with the governing authority in the land, a king. This ruler needed the leadership of the priest and the priest needed the protection and leadership of the King.

 Our master King David has just made Solomon king! And the king has surrounded him with Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet…and they’ve mounted Solomon on the royal mule. Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king … (1Kings45:43-48)

This government was delegated when Moses gathered seventy elders and released the same spiritual authority that was on him to these men. This pattern continues today through Israel, the Gentile church and the governments of the nations.

Then the LORD came down in the cloud and spoke to him; and He took of the Spirit who was upon him and placed Him upon the seventy elders. And when the Spirit rested upon them, they prophesied. But they did not do it again. (Numbers 11:25)

“I am no longer in the world; and yet they themselves are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We are. (John 17:11)

Jesus writing to the seven churches spoke to the leadership and held them responsible for the church. I believe God will hold us responsible for the leadership of our land not the sinners. Judgment comes to the house first because the house is responsible.

I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, (Revelation 1:10)

saying, “Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.” (Revelation 1:11)

Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands; (Revelation 1:12)

and in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. (Revelation 1:13)

As for the mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. (Revelation 1:20)

 

KINGDOM PRIESTS CARRY GOVERNMENT

 

`Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; (Exodus 19:5)

 

and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.” (Exodus 19:6)

 

The king was the only type of government or state known in this context. “kingdom” could well be translated today as a “government” or “state.”

The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.” (Psalm 110:4)

Melchizedek was a king and a priest. He had the power and authority to bless Abraham calling him the possessor of heaven and earth. The Father of nations received his blessing from the high priest but also the government.

The office of the priesthood had authority and was made of men who had the gift of wisdom, endowed with an anointing and ability to bring forth the reflection of God in every aspect of life.

“You shall speak to all the skillful persons whom I have endowed with the spirit of wisdom (Exodus 28:3)

One of the governmental duties was to make sure the priests temple was protected and provided for, there was to be a temple ministry carried forth by these priests.

The task at hand was to free up Aaron and consecrate him so he could minister to the Lord.

….that they make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him, that he may minister as priest to Me. (Exodus 28:3)

The Lord needed to manifest His divine authority in Aaron but He needed other priests to get Aaron to the place of consecration. The protection and authority to bring about the divine blessing to the Promised Land.

They were delegated authority working in tandem with the kings and priests and other workers to assist in the government of the nation. When you think of government it was different in that day compared to today. The Lord presented His desire and government was a part of administrating that plan.

It should be the same today. God presents His plan and if the current government can’t hear that is because the priesthood isn’t operating. If the priesthood is in place then the government can enter into the priesthood or hear from the priesthood according to the cleanness of the heart of the government.

. They didn’t enter into the holy of holies but they were filled with wisdom to solve the problems of the day. Some of them filled the role of judges.

 

WATCHMEN RELEASE THE SOUND OF GOVERNMENT

If a trumpet is blown in a city will not the people tremble? If a calamity occurs in a city has not the LORD done it? (Amos 3:6)

“And I set watchmen over you, saying, `Listen to the sound of the trumpet!’ (Jeremiah 6:17)

So it came about on the third day, when it was morning, that there were thunder and lightning flashes and a thick cloud upon the mountain and a very loud trumpet sound, so that all the people who were in the camp trembled. (Exodus 19:16)

When the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke and God answered him with thunder. (Exodus 19:19)

All the people perceived the thunder and the lightning flashes and the sound of the trumpet and the mountain smoking; and when the people saw it, they trembled and stood at a distance. (Exodus 20:18)

`But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet and the people are not warned, and a sword comes and takes a person from them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood I will require from the watchman’s hand.’ (Ezekiel 33:6)

the word of the LORD came expressly to Ezekiel the priest..(Ezekiel 1:3)

Ezekiel had blood on his hands because he was responsible. He was a priest. He had government. It was as if he committed the crime. The Lord said you are to sound a trumpet you are to release your government. The trumpet is what sounded when God surrounded the mountain: thunders, lightening’s and the sound of a trumpet.

“It shall be that when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when you hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city will fall down flat, and the people will go up every man straight ahead.” (Joshua 6:5)

So the people shouted, and priests blew the trumpets; and when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, the people shouted with a great shout and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight ahead, and they took the city. (Joshua 6:20)

 

It was the sound of a trumpet that released the government in Joshua 6 and that government went to the entire city.

So the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon; and he blew a trumpet, and the Abiezrites were called together to follow him. (Judges 6:34)

When I and all who are with me blow the trumpet, then you also blow the trumpets all around the camp and say, `For the LORD and for Gideon.’ (Judges 7:18)

 

Gideon sounded a trumpet that gave direction and government to the people.

“At whatever place you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.” (Nehemiah 4:20)

Lift up a signal in the land, Blow a trumpet among the nations! Consecrate the nations against her, (Jeremiah 51:27)

We need to bless our government, serve them with the anointing and calling God has given us. This partnership will release the promises we see in Cyrus’ life

“So now, in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God, observe and seek after all the commandments of the LORD your God so that you may possess the good land and bequeath it to your sons after you forever. (1 Chronicles 28:8)

 

GOVERNMENT ANOINTING AND BLESSING

 

 David being old and full of days, made Solomon his son king over Israel. And he gathered together all the princes of Israel, and the priests and Levites. And the Levites were numbered from the age of thirty years, and upwards: and there were found of them thirty-eight thousand men.  Of these twenty-four thousand were chosen, and distributed unto the ministry of the house of the Lord: and six thousand were the overseers and judges.(1Chronicles 23:1-4)

Cyrus was a king. He was the government representing God’s Government. The bible says God would subdue the nation through him, cause Kings to agree with him and open the city gates.

Thus says the LORD to Cyrus His anointed, (equipped, supernaturally and naturally – every spiritual blessing)Whom I have taken by the right hand, (have divine leadership)To subdue nations before him ( touch and influence nations, people groups, ethnic groups) And to loose the loins of kings; ( have favor from other leaders/peers/opening doors/ can influence, persuade them to make good/right decisions)To open doors before him ( have opportunities, have favor, go places others can’t go) so that gates will not be shut: (Isaiah 45:1)    (there is no end to the blessing and favor coming your way)

“I will go before you   ( the Lord prepares the way before you – angels go before you – keep you from stumbling – show you the future- illuminate the way) and make the rough places smooth;   (remove offenses towards you – settle disputes in your favor – remove contention and strife – remove the mountains) I will shatter the doors of bronze  ( those who block you or try to steal from you will be stopped in their track) and cut through their iron bars. (Isaiah 45:2)   (those who try to close doors/imprison you / shut down your anointing will be removed/ plans will not prosper against you)

“I will give you the treasures of darkness    ( you will know what is being done in darkness – the plans of the wicked before they come to fruition like Ezekiel go behind the wall and see their true heart)And hidden wealth of secret places,  ( you will find hidden savings, hidden financial blessings that the enemy can’t see, hidden ways to bring success)So that you may know that it is I, The LORD, the God of Israel, who calls you by your name. (Isaiah 45:3)

“For the sake of Jacob My servant, And Israel My chosen one, I have also called you by your name; I have given you a title of honor  (greater than any title or position man could give you – Gods honor!)Though you have not known Me. (Isaiah 45:4)  (you will get fresh revelation, wisdom, insight and understanding)

“I am the LORD, and there is no other; Besides Me there is no God. I will gird you, (He will strengthen you as one who has known God all your life =  all His ways and what He will do in every situation)though you have not known Me; (Isaiah 45:5)

That men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun That there is no one besides Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other, (Isaiah 45:6)

The One forming light and creating darkness, Causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the LORD who does all these. (Isaiah 45:7)

Cyrus represents what God intended in government. He wants to release the treasures of darkness, the hidden wealth and to destroy everything that hinders His Kingdom being established in the earth

God called Cyrus, God will keep Cyrus and God will rule and reign His authority through Cyrus. He girds, strengthens and protects. God gives Cyrus creative ability to rise above the storms and prosper.

There is a governmental anointing to release this blessing. As we search today for righteous government we need to know we have the ability to bless the office of Government with that anointing. We can take our priestly anointing and release the same blessings that Cyrus walked out into our lives by blessing and praying for those in office.

So often we think only if the government is righteous we will be blessed, if that were true than God’s anointing is ruled by man’s state of righteousness? This is ludicrous. The office is blessed because it is ordained by God and when we partner with God and the office He will bless. It may mean removal or it may mean encounter, either way God promises blessing and He will follow through on His word by whatever means are necessary.

so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. (Matthew 5:45)

Our faith is not in man it is in God and His Word. We aren’t moved by what man can do but we are moved by God’s heart and response to what man does. This is how we respond and we must make the commitment to not back down, not be silent and to honor our covenant with the Lord. Take our place in government, partner with the Lord all the way to the end.

 

 

Scriptures to Pray and Declare Over Our Military

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He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1)

I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” (Psalm 91:2)

For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper And from the deadly pestilence. (Psalm 91:3)

He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. (Psalm 91:4)

You will not be afraid of the terror by night, Or of the arrow that flies by day; (Psalm 91:5)

Of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. (Psalm 91:6)

A thousand may fall at your side And ten thousand at your right hand, But it shall not approach you. (Psalm 91:7)

You will only look on with your eyes And see the recompense of the wicked. (Psalm 91:8)

For you have made the LORD, my refuge, Even the Most High, your dwelling place. (Psalm 91:9)

No evil will befall you, Nor will any plague come near your tent. (Psalm 91:10)

For He will give His angels charge concerning you, To guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:11)

He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. (Psalm 121:3)

Even there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me. (Psalm 139:10)

This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. (Lamentations 3:21)

The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. (Lamentations 3:22)

They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:23)

For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God, (Psalm 18:31)

The God who girds me with strength And makes my way blameless? (Psalm 18:32)

He makes my feet like hinds’ feet, And sets me upon my high places. (Psalm 18:33)

He trains my hands for battle, So that my arms can bend a bow of bronze. (Psalm 18:34)

You have also given me the shield of Your salvation, And Your right hand upholds me; And Your gentleness makes me great. (Psalm 18:35)

You enlarge my steps under me, And my feet have not slipped. (Psalm 18:36)

Be strong and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD. (Psalm 31:24)

Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary. (Isaiah 40:31)

“No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD. (Isaiah 54:17)

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

Prepare plans by consultation, And make war by wise guidance. (Proverbs 20:18)

`Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’ (Jeremiah 33:3)

“Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10)

but we have renounced the things hidden because of shame, not walking in craftiness or adulterating the word of God, but by the manifestation of truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. (2 Corinthians 4:2)

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, (2 Corinthians 4:3)

in whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. (2 Corinthians 4:4)

For we do not preach ourselves but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bond-servants for Jesus’ sake. (2 Corinthians 4:5)

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; (Matthew 5:14)

nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. (Matthew 5:15)

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, (Ephesians 1:18)

and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might (Ephesians 1:19)

so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, (Ephesians 3:17)

may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, (Ephesians 3:18)

and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:19)

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, (Ephesians 3:20)

Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? (Psalm 139:7)

Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. (Psalm 139:16)

`For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, `plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; (Psalm 46:2)

The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold. Selah. (Psalm 46:7)

casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6)

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:9)

A father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is God in His holy habitation. (Psalm 68:5)

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)

Surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. (Isaiah 53:4)

But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way; But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all To fall on Him. (Isaiah 53:6)

He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3)

 

 

The House of Worship Touches the Nation

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HOW WE RESPOND MATTERS

The LORD said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which both ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. (1 Samuel 3:11)

Thus the word of Samuel came to all Israel. Now Israel went out to meet the Philistines in battle and camped beside Ebenezer while the Philistines camped in Aphek. (1 Samuel 4:1)

The Philistines drew up in battle array to meet Israel. When the battle spread, Israel was defeated before the Philistines who killed about four thousand men on the battlefield. (1 Samuel 4:2)

When the people came into the camp, the elders of Israel said, “Why has the LORD defeated us today before the Philistines?(1Samuel 4:3)

What Eli and his sons did in the House of Worship brought destruction to Israel. And even with the word of the Lord Israel had followed their way. The Lord said to Samuel the ears of Israel will tingle when they hear the judgment.

“For I have told him that I am about to judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knew, because his sons brought a curse on themselves and he did not rebuke them. (1 Samuel 3:13)

“Therefore I have sworn to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.” (1 Samuel 3:14)

Our response to judgment matters. Our response to the Word of the Lord matters.

Let us take to ourselves from Shiloh the ark of the covenant of the LORD, that it may come among us and deliver us from the power of our enemies.” (1 Samuel 4:3)


So the people sent to Shiloh, and from there they carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts who sits above the cherubim; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God. (1 Samuel 4:4)

 

The people were changed in their heart towards the “holy of holies”. Their regard for the place where the Lord of Hosts sits above the cherubim had become a weapon to use against the enemy. They took it into their hands and carried God’s glory like it was theirs to do with as they pleased.

There was no faith that the priests of the Lord could speak to God on their behalf so they just thought they could bring God out and place Him between them and the enemy. Their hearts were hardened, there was no fear of the Lord and there was no regard for God’s holy place of worship. It was all about their need and their deliverance.

The people had lost their ear to hear. They no longer were under God’s protection. Their plan failed. The strength of their shouting and the sound of their voice would not win them protection from the enemy, they needed God’s voice and presence.

So the Philistines fought and Israel was defeated, and every man fled to his tent; and the slaughter was very great, for there fell of Israel thirty thousand foot soldiers. (1 Samuel 4:10)

And the ark of God was taken; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, died. (1 Samuel 4:11)

Eli was back at the House of Worship. He knew the presence was gone. He knew the ark was gone and he was without excuse. He was trembling. He had gone blind. He had no influence, he had no ability to pray or offer a sacrifice to the Lord, he was now at the mercy of the nation.

When he came, behold, Eli was sitting on his seat by the road eagerly watching, because his heart was trembling for the ark of God. So the man came to tell it in the city, and all the city cried out. (1 Samuel 4:13)

The news was devastating. The judgment came to pass.

Then the one who brought the news replied, “Israel has fled before the Philistines and there has also been a great slaughter among the people, and your two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God has been taken.” (1 Samuel 4:17)

When he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell off the seat backward beside the gate, and his neck was broken and he died, for he was old and heavy. Thus he judged Israel forty years. (1 Samuel 4:18)

At that same time Eli’s grandson is born. His daughter-in-law calls him Icabod.

And she called the boy Ichabod, saying, “The glory has departed from Israel,” because the ark of God was taken and because of her father-in-law and her husband. (1 Samuel 4:21)

She said, “The glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God was taken.” (1 Samuel 4:22)