Dream of the Pilgrim

 

 

Dream of the Pilgrim

 

On August 2, the Lord gave me a dream similar to John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress. Although the dream was not as long or as detailed, as Bunyan’s dream, it was at least two hours in length. I will give a condensed version of the dream. As the dream began, I was looking down upon a ship that appeared to be from the Colonial era. Then I was standing within the ship talking to my wife, I explained to her that we were in Plymouth, Massachusetts and the ship was a reproduction of the Mayflower. We then discussed how America was founded as a Christian nation, as well as how most Americans have removed God from sight and sound in order to pursue their own pleasures. I also understood that Christians are pilgrims passing through this world, with the responsibility of sharing the Gospel with the unsaved.

Then I noticed a large staircase ascending into the air with many rooms attached at different levels. I began to ascend the staircase, and I entered a room that resembled a ballroom filled with people dressed in formal attire. I was told by the Lord that these people were lovers of pleasure more than of God, and most of them never read a single verse from the Bible in their life. I then noticed that many of the people were carrying glasses of wine in their hands, and most were drunk.
 
Then I entered a room filled with men drunk from the wine of sin, and there was broken glass everywhere. Many of the men were passed out, and some were dead. Then the Lord said to me that the wages of sin is death.
Then I entered another room filled with men that had lost all hope and they were very depressed. I could feel their despair and it was quite overwhelming, it gave me a strong sense of compassion for these men. The Lord said that this was the place of despair, and true peace was found only in a relationship with him.
 Then I noticed a room at the very top of the staircase, and it was very high in the air. I entered the room, and I noticed a pulpit with three crosses engraved on it, as well as altars for kneeling all around the room.  Above the room there was no ceiling, only a beautiful sky filled with the golden light of God’s glory. The Lord said to me that this was the place of repentance and new birth. I understood that if a person would repent of their sins, as well as put their faith in Christ, that they would experience true peace, as well as joy, and would discover the true meaning of life. Then I departed the room and began to descend the staircase.

I then noticed a man climbing the staircase toward the upper room, he was covered with leprosy, and he stank with a pungent body odor from sin. I felt unconditional love for this man and I would do anything I could to help him, I didn’t care what he looked like or the smell that came from his body.  I reached out my arm to him and asked if I could give him a hand.  I helped pull him up, and I gave him a hug, and told him that I loved him. I told him that I knew what was in the upper room, and he replied, “Don’t tell me, I must find out for myself.” Then before the man ascended the staircase to this upper room, I told him that things were going to get a whole lot better! Then the Lord told me that after this man repented of his sins and experienced the new birth, he would be healed from sin, as well as given a white garment.  This was the end of dream.

 I awoke from this dream in tears, because I could feel the
love that God has for his creation. I understood that God loved mankind so much that he was willing to leave his throne in Glory and become a man and die on the cross for us. The Lord is willing to forgive us of all of our sins, no matter how big they are if we will repent of them, repentance means to turn away from them. The Lord is very patient, as well as merciful with each of us, he gives us time to grow in our Christian walk. We enter the Kingdom of God as a baby, we learn to walk by taking baby steps at first, we also start off on milk, then eventually we mature to strong meat. The Lord does not expect perfection, but he does expect us to grow spiritually, as well as to produce good fruit (Galatians 5). We are also called to be set apart from the sinful world, if a person is truly born again it will show in their lifestyle. Also consider these Scriptures.

 1 John 1: 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 Timothy 6: 11 But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.  12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

2 Cor 7:10  For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.

Luke 15:7  I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.

  1 Cor 6: 9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites,  10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.  11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.                 

The Finish Line

The Finish Line

 

Most churches today are not teaching their people the truth in regard to salvation. They are taught that by simply reciting the sinner’s prayer that they are saved and the angels are singing in Heaven. The sinner’s prayer is a great prayer when done in sincerity, but this alone does not save a person’s soul, it is just the beginning. Most churches today are not teaching their people to repent of their sins and to be born again. To be born again, a person must become a new creation in Christ, and this means to be set apart from the world and unto God. The Apostle Paul addressed his letters to the saints in Christ, the word saint means, set apart ones, so Paul’s letters were to the set apart ones. In Romans chapter six Paul teaches that we are not to continue in sin but we must live for Christ. If Jesus Christ is truly the Lord of your life then his attributes will be apparent in your life. Christ said that any tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. Also note, that in the following verse Paul said that we are being saved, therefore we must never become complacent in our spiritual walk .  2 Cor 2:15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

 

This life of probation, may be compared to running a race. We run this race of life hoping to obtain the prize, which is eternal life with God, but if we do not complete the race and cross the finish line, then all is lost. Even Paul said that if he didn’t discipline his body to bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. Paul was saying that like a runner in a race keeps his body in good physical condition, we must also keep our spiritual body in good condition so that we might be able to cross the finish line and win our crown.  1 Cor 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.  26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.  27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. Christ said that those who endure unto the end shall be saved, if we fail to cross the finish line in victory, then all is lost. Matt 10:22 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. Matt 24: 12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.  13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.  14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. The lukewarm church of the end time is preaching a greasy grace message that makes people feel good, instead of  teaching them the truth. When there is no distinction between the sinful world and the saints, then the salt has lost it’s savor and the truth has been turned into a lie. If we live, dress, talk, as well as act like sinners, then we are lost as well. Christ made atonement upon the cross for sins committed in ignorance, as well as for sins that are repented of. If we do not repent of willful sins, then there is no forgiveness. Atonement is not automatic, it follows repentance. No one is perfect of course, but we are called to righteousness, and this means to live right.

 

Many people profess to know God but deny him by their actions. If we know Christ then we should have the mind of Christ, as well as bear good fruit. Christ said that if you love him then you will obey his commandments.   Titus 1: 14 not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth.  15 To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled.  16 They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.

 

  Also, consider the parable of the sower of seed.   Matt 13: 18 “Therefore hear the parable of the sower:  19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside.  20 But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy;  21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.  22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.  23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.” In this parable Christ illustrates how many people fall away from the faith because they have no strong root. The seed is the Word of God and many people don’t understand what they read and the wicked one (Satan) will deceive them and steal what was sown in their heart, these have fallen by the wayside. Others who have no root, endure for awhile, then fall away from Christ because of hard times, or persecution, or tribulation, these people may hold prominent positions within the church, or may have been professing Christians for years, but they usually blame God for some tragedy or circumstance in their life and fall away. I have known many people who have fallen away from Christ due to hardship. Others, the deceitfulness of riches or the cares of the world, choke the word and they become unfruitful. God’s Word teaches that the love of money is the root of all evil, but many of the television evangelists, as well as mega church leaders are into money worship and are leading the masses astray, the prosperity gospel is the polar opposite of the teachings of Christ. Christ said, that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of an needle, than for a rich man to enter Heaven. But he who received the seed on good ground, produced fruit, thirty, sixty or one hundred fold. Not every Christian will produce the same degree of good fruit, some may produce only 30 fold fruit, but they are still doing their best to pursue Christ. If we produce zero fruit then we are in serious trouble. The parable of the sower of seed, very clearly shows us that it is possible to fall away from Christ.

 

The Book of Revelation was given to the Apostle John by the angel of Jesus Christ. Within Revelation, Christ gave warnings to the various churches that they must keep the commandments of God or they would be cast away. In Rev 2:4 Christ told them that they had left their first love, he told them to repent, and do their first works over or he would remove their lampstand from it’s place. He also told the church of Sardis to repent, because their works, were not found to be perfect before God. Christ told the church of Laodicea that because they are lukewarm that he would vomit them out of his mouth. As you can see, the Word of God teaches us that it is very possible to fall from grace, due to sin, or lack of faith. It is time for the lukewarm churches to wake up and stop leading people astray. James states the truth very clearly, when he said that faith without works is dead.

 

Rev 2: 4 Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.  5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.

 

Rev 3:1  “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.  2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God.  3 Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.

 

Rev 3: 14 “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God:  15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot.  16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.  17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—  18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.  20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.  21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

        

Christian Marriage Principles

Christian Marriage Principles

 

Satan’s desire is to destroy the Christian family in order to ruin our testimony, as well as render us useless for God’s work. That is why it is important for our marriages to be grounded in Christ, for if Christ is the foundation, then when the storms of life come, our marriages will remain strong and unshakable. It is also important to remain clothed with the armor of Christ to be able to stand against the evil one in these dark times. Our society is trying to redefine marriage by legalizing gay marriage, but God is the author of the marriage covenant and he has determined that it is between a man and a woman. It is sad that in our public schools today, gay marriage is being endorsed, as well as encouraged, I believe that this is a sure sign of the end of the age.

Choosing the spouse that we will spend our life with is the most important decision that we will ever make, only our relationship with the Lord is of more importance. That is why we should seek the Lord with fasting and prayer concerning whom we choose. It is also very important to thoroughly get to know the person before making that lifetime commitment. I have known young people who were in such a hurry to get married that they hardly knew their spouse and then suffered the consequences. It is a good idea for most people to get pre-marriage counseling from their Pastor or another Christian counselor before walking down that aisle. Spiritual, as well as emotional maturity is very important to a stable marriage. Women want a man to be confident, strong, as well as be a spiritual and physical leader, and men want a woman to be nurturing, loving, supportive, and Christ centered.

A Christian should be loyal to their spouse in every way and should never flirt with the opposite sex. I have witnessed many married people flirt with others in the workplace and it is very disturbing. Many of these people were professing Christians and one was even a pastor in his fifties. We live in a very promiscuous society where people are bound by lust, and believe that there is grace for everything. Many believe that it is okay for a married person to have friends of the opposite sex but this is seldom innocent. I have witnessed these friendships between professing Christians of the opposite sex and it always led to an emotional bonding, and the men always developed feelings for the woman. Your spouse is the person that you should be emotionally bonded to, not Joe or Sally in the workplace. Fraternization is the first step toward adultery.

Our so-called progressive society has blurred the roles of men and women. A man is called by God to be the leader of the family and his wife is called to be submissive to him, but our society calls these old fashioned values archaic. I don’t believe that a husband should be abusive or a dictator to his wife, but should love her as his own body and be willing to give his life for her, Ephesians 5:22-25.  A spouse should put the needs of their mate before their own, as well as be tender hearted towards them. If biblical principles are applied to a marriage there will be harmony. Wives should honor their husbands and allow them to be the leader of the household and never be condescending or controlling. And children should respect their parents and not try to rule over them. A big reason for the dysfunctionality of the family today is due to what people view on television, as well as the internet. The liberal culture is shaping the lives of our children, and many men are addicted to pornography because of this technology.

Another big problem today is that families don’t spend quality time together. Our lives are busy and quite often both parents work and our children are being raised by babysitters, as well as television. Most jobs today require a person to be married to them instead of their spouse. If possible, a mother should stay home and raise her own children and the father should take a job where he has the time to spend with his family. Most kids today seldom see their fathers and this is not God’s plan for the family. Work is honorable but a paycheck cannot replace a parent. Sometimes it is better to live in a smaller house and drive a cheaper car in order to have more time with your family. Below is a list of scriptures on marriage.

 1 Cor 7: 1 Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. 4 The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. 5 Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. 6 But I say this as a concession, not as a commandment. 7 For I wish that all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that.

1 Cor 7: 10 Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. 11 But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife.12 But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. 13 And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. 15 But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. 16 For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?

Ephesians 5:22  Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. 25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 30 For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

The Afterlife

 

 

The Afterlife

 

There are two prevailing views of the afterlife. One is called soul sleep, it teaches that the soul/spirit of a person goes into temporary extinction after the death of the body until the resurrection, the other teaches that the soul/spirit goes immediately to Paradise or Hell. Both views, are considered to be orthodox within Christianity. I believe that the Bible clearly teaches that the soul/spirit of a person survives the death of the body and we will examine what the Bible teaches. 

First, I would like to share two visions that I have had of Paradise. After spending some time in prayer, I fell asleep and I found myself standing in the most beautiful garden I have ever seen. The grass was very lush green and full of all types of flowers, and everything glowed with a white celestial light. There were also many trees, of all varieties and I saw butterflies, as well as heard birds singing. The colors were more vivid than anything that I have ever seen on earth. There was a bright blue sky overhead and I heard angels singing above me, but could not see them. I could hear the gentle, soft, strumming of harps, and the angels were singing, “holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come”. I then woke up from this experience wishing that I could remain in this place forever. I understood in the vision that this was the abode of the departed spirits, awaiting their resurrection. 

The second vision that I have had of Paradise occurred around a year later. Both visions, were given me due to the death of family members. The second vision also occurred while I was asleep. I dreamed that I was standing on a cliff overlooking a beautiful sea that was smooth as glass in appearance. There was a very comforting warm breeze blowing on me from this sea. The sky was glowing with many colors similar to a sunset, but without a sun, because God gives the light upon his celestial kingdom. I saw people dressed in white robes conversing with one another, in what appeared to be an amphitheater next to the sea. I recognized some of the people to be departed family members. Everyone appeared to be in their twenties, as well as perfect in appearance. These night visions confirmed to me what many others have shared with me over the years. I have had six co- workers share with me their near death experiences at varies different jobs that I have worked, also my late mother had many visions of the afterlife. 

I do not believe in eternal torment, because God is not a monster, he will not torture a person for all eternity. I believe that Hell (Sheol, Hades), is the prison where unsaved souls are kept until judgment day. I believe that this prison may have different sections or levels of punishment. I have talked to different people who experienced Hell during a near death experience, and they all described Hell as a very cold, dark pit. Although the apocryphal books are not canon, they show us that the Old Testament Jews very much believed that the soul of a person went to Sheol at death, to either Paradise or prison to await their resurrection. 

  The Bible teaches that after the thousand year reign of Christ on earth, Hell will give up it’s dead for the great white throne judgment. Every man will be judged according to his works, and everyone who’s name is not written in the Lamb’s book of life will be cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death. It says that both Hell, as well as the unsaved will experience this second death. I believe that this destruction of Hell, as well as the unsaved souls is extinction, not eternal torment. The words forever or eternal in the original Greek language of the New Testament, is better translated as a final decree or an irrevocable judgment. In other words, when you read eternal fire or being tormented forever, it is referring to a judge lowering his gavel and decreeing his final judgment, not literally burning forever. The Bible mentions smoke ascending forever and ever in the description of the destruction of Babylon, but we know that Babylon is not still burning, this is indicating a final judgment or eternal decree. In Jude, we read of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, as described as suffering the vengeance of eternal fire, but we know that these cities are not still burning today. Jude 1:7 as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Once again, eternal fire means an irrevocable decree. The Bible mentions the destruction of the unsaved souls many times within both the old, as well as the new testament, and this will occur at the great white throne judgment.  Ezekiel 18: 4 “Behold, all souls are Mine; The soul of the father As well as the soul of the son is Mine; The soul who sins shall die. Matt 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. 

 

I would now like to give scriptural evidence against the soul sleep doctrine. The Apostle Paul said that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.  2 Cor 5:6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord.  7 For we walk by faith, not by sight.  8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. 9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.  10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Paul also said that he was hard pressed whether to remain in the flesh, or to depart and be with Christ. Philippians 1:22 But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell.  23 For  I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.  24 Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. These scriptures prove that Paul believed that the soul of the Christian went immediately to Christ at death. Paul also mentions a man who was caught up into Paradise in the third heaven. 2 Cor 12: 2 I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven.  3 And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows—  4 how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. 

Our Lord Jesus Christ said to the thief on his right hand, “Today, you will be with me in Paradise”. Luke 23: 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation?  41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.”  42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.”43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” The Lord also gave us the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. Lazarus died, and was carried by the Angels to Abraham’s bosom (Paradise). The rich man also died, and was tormented in a flame in Hell. Abraham and the rich man carried on a conversation and Abraham said to him, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent. But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’” This passage is clearly speaking of conscious souls having dialogue in Sheol. Abraham even mentions that some will not be persuaded even though one rise from the dead. Yet some Christians claim this passage is speaking of after the resurrection, but anyone who reads this literally knows otherwise.   

Luke 16: 19 “There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day.  20 But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate,  21 desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.  22 So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried.  23 And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

24 “Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’  25 But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented.  26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’

27 “Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house,  28 for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’  29 Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’  30 And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’  31 But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’”  

When Christ died, he descended into Sheol and preached the gospel to the souls in prison who were disobedient during the time of Noah. These unsaved souls died during the flood of Noah but were given the chance of salvation after death.  1 Peter 3: 18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: 19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; 20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.

1 Peter 4: 6 For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.

These scriptures prove that the soul/spirit survives the death of the body and goes directly to Paradise or prison to await the resurrection of the body. God Bless!

The Judgment Upon Gay Marriage

Although I have compassion for the families of the shooting victims in Orlando, I feel that I must repost this teaching. The news media is using the situation in Orlando to advance the homosexual agenda, and Christians must speak out against this before it is too late.

A major sign of the end of the age is the legalization of same-gender marriage. Every great empire in history that has accepted the homosexual lifestyle as being normal has fallen within a generation. Marriage is a holy union between a man and a woman that is sanctioned by God and should not be perverted. Around five years ago, the Lord spoke to me that gay marriage was a slap to his face and that the Supreme Court would make gay marriage the law of the land, and judgment would soon come thereafter. Today, we have seen this word come to pass, Barrack Obama asked the Supreme Court to legalize gay marriage nationwide, and now gay marriage has become a reality. We have witnessed the federal government override the will of the people and prove that our votes are meaningless. It is unconstitutional for a federal or a state judge to override an issue that the citizens of a state have voted against; this is tyranny. The states are gradually losing their autonomy to a federal government that has no regard for the constitution or the will of the people.

The Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, as well as the surrounding cities because of their wickedness, Genesis 19:1-29. The Bible tells us that the men of Sodom lusted after the angels of God who were sent to deliver Lot and his family out of Sodom; they demanded that the angels be brought to them so that they might have sexual relations with them. In response to their wickedness, the angels smote them with blindness, then led Lot and his family out of Sodom prior to God raining fire and brimstone upon the city. The New Testament book of Jude tells us that God destroyed these cities specifically because of the sin of homosexuality (strange flesh), to make them an example for all time.  Jude 1:7 as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.

 God does not consider homosexuality to be a small issue, but rather a grave sin. God’s Word teaches us that homosexuality is an abomination to God, this means that it is detestable or an insult to God. Many people today say that God made people homosexual and that God does not make mistakes. God does not make anyone homosexual, homosexuality is a perversion like pedophilia, or bestiality. This is like saying that God made people adulterers or sex addicts. We live in a fallen world where people allow themselves to be corrupted by entertaining sin. Homosexuality is a spiritual bondage from which people can be delivered. I have met people that were delivered from homosexuality and are now straight, as well as married. Christ died upon the cross to set the captive free and through sincere repentance, the bondage of homosexuality can be broken. A person can be saved, delivered, and made clean through faith, repentance, and perseverance.

Homosexuality is not a civil rights issue, as some believe. Many liken it to the racial inequality issues of the sixties, but it is an issue of sexual perversion, not race. Christians however, should show the love of Christ to homosexual people in order to win them over to the truth, which can set them free. Hate, name-calling, or violence should be condemned, as well as abhorred. Below, is a list of scriptures that address homosexuality.

Romans 1:24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;

Lev 20:13 If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.

Deut 22:5 “A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the Lord your God.

1 Cor 6:9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals,p nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.

1 Timothy 1:8 Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, 9 understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, 10 the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine,

Jude 1:7 as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.

War, Famine, and Endtime preparation

War, Famine, and Endtime preparation

 

Many Christians are asleep, in regard to the apocalyptic events that will soon unfold. It is crucial that we fast and pray for God’s direction in how to prepare for the hard times ahead. The Lord showed me in a series of dreams, as well as visions and words, that our economy will soon tank and this will cause panic in the streets. During this time of fiscal unrest, there will be terrorist attacks against this nation from Islamic groups and some of the attacks will eclipse 911. And when there is chaos everywhere, the Russians will take advantage of the situation and they will strike America with small yield nuclear weapons that will initiate world war three, and later China will also join Russia in this war. And eventually China will occupy this land.

 The great war to come, will also cause a famine greater than this world has ever known.  The Lord told me that people will eat their pets, as well as each other. The Lord also showed me that it is crucial that Christians relocate to very remote areas in order to protect their families, as well as their food supply. During this time of war and famine people will be desperate to feed their families and they will kill you for your food, as well as supplies. Out of necessity, people will eventually consume all of the natural resources, including all the wildlife. In Revelation chapter six we read about the four horseman of the apocalypse. The white horse is symbolic of Christ who executes his righteous judgments, then we read of the red horse which is war, followed by the black horse of famine with scales in his hand, then the pale horse of death and Hades follows. As you can see from God’s Word, war is followed by worldwide famine. Also, the time will come when money will be worthless and no one will be able to buy or sell without the mark, number, or name of the beast. It is crucial that Christians prepare asap, for sudden destruction will come and most people will be unprepared.

As I stated previously, we need to be in prayer, as well as fasting for direction from the Lord as to where to relocate to ride out the storm. The Lord has instructed me to relocate to a place of true wilderness, away from all towns and human population. The time will soon come when Christians will need to band together and share their resources in order to survive. In the book of Acts, we read where the early church did exactly this. Those who had an abundance shared with those who lacked, so that everyone’s needs were met, and the Apostles distributed the food accordingly. I believe that this type of community will be necessary once again.

 Mountains can serve as a barrier between populated areas and wilderness, as well as slow down human traffic. I believe that remote mountainous areas are ideal for survival. I would recommend very tall mountains, like the Rockies, or the Coastal Mountains of British Columbia Canada. It is also necessary to live near a good water source, such as a lake, river, or year round creek. It is also a good idea to live near plenty of trees, for firewood, as well as building materials. I would also recommend stockpiling as much food as you can. The dehydrated foods with a shelf life of thirty or forty years are ideal. I believe that it is a good idea to hide your food underground  if possible. It is also a good idea to learn as much as possible about farming, gardening, hunting and fishing. The time will come when there will be no more electricity, gasoline or grocery stores to depend on. When the war comes, society will be set back to primitive conditions.

 According to government sources, if one nuclear bomb were to be set off in the stratosphere above the central United States, it would create an electromagnetic pulse that would knock out the national power grid, as well as all electronic devices and most cars. It would take over a century to get it up and running again. Also according to government sources, if this occurs, ninety percent of the American population will die within one year. Most people are dependent upon Wal-Mart for food and supplies. We all drive cars to work, and trucks, trains, and planes are necessary for transport of food etc. All of our modern conveniences that we take for granted, will come to an end. That is why it is important to learn how to survive.

 I personally believe that the Lord will take care of his children in wilderness locations in the same way that he cared for the Israelites in their wilderness. I believe that nuclear radiation will not affect God’s elect. I also believe that we will once again, see the same type of miracles that we read about in Exodus, as well as Acts. That is why we must learn to live by faith, and not fear, but like Noah did, we need to prepare our ark of safety according to God’s direction.         

 

The truth about the Rapture

 

There is much controversy as to the timing of the rapture, but God’s Word is very clear on this subject and we will explore what it really teaches. This is not a subject that should divide us, but it is critical that we be informed of the truth. The pre-tribulation rapture viewpoint is very dangerous because it teaches people that there is no need to prepare for the tribulation, or hard times ahead, because God is going to rapture you up to Heaven for seven years, then return again to establish his kingdom. This man made doctrine is contrary to God’s Word, and was created by taking scripture out of context, as well as making scriptures jump through many hoops in order to bring about a man pleasing belief.

The Lord Jesus Christ himself told us exactly when he will return, as well as when he will send forth his angels to gather the elect. Christ said that immediately after the tribulation of those days he would return and gather his elect unto himself. NKJV Matt 24:29  “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. ³⁰ Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. ³¹ And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.  Christ said what he meant and was not speaking metaphorically. The pre-trib doctrine teaches that this passage is in reference to the second coming of Christ, seven years after the ingathering of the saints, but Christ said that at this time, he would send out his angels to harvest the elect. This passage alone is enough to establish that the rapture and the second coming of Christ are the same event and that this will occur immediately after the tribulation.

 The Apostle Paul taught that we will not be caught up to meet the Lord in the air until the the dead are raised first, then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them. Paul did not say that we will be caught up to Heaven, but that we will meet the Lord in the air as he returns, this is our transformation into immortality. 1 Thess 4:13  But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. ¹⁴ For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.¹⁵ For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. ¹⁶ For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. ¹⁷ Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ Therefore comfort one another with these words.

1 Cor 15:51  Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— ⁵² in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. ⁵³ For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.   If we establish when the dead are raised, then we will know when the remnant who are alive, will be caught up and transformed. Christ said that he will raise the dead on the last day. John 6:39  This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. ⁴⁰ And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”  Paul said that the dead are raised, and that we are caught up with them at the last trump. The last trump is a reference to the sounding of the seventh angel in the book of Revelation.  Rev 10:7  but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets. Rev 11:15  Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!” When the trump is sounded then it is said, “ The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ”. As you can see, God’s Word clearly teaches that the dead are raised on the last day, at the last trump.

Another interesting fact is that all those martyred within the Great Tribulation will have part in the first resurrection (resurrection of the righteous). If the rapture/resurrection occurred before the tribulation then they would have no resurrection. Rev 20:4  And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. ⁵ But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. ⁶ Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

God’s Word teaches us that he will protect many of his children in the wilderness during this time of tribulation, these will be the remnant that overcome and that will never see death.  Rev 12:13  Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. ¹⁴ But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. ¹⁵ So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. ¹⁶ But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth. ¹⁷ And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

  God did not rapture Noah out of the earth, nor did he build the ark for him, rather he instructed him how to build the ark.  Noah was obedient to God and although it took him 120 years to build the ark, he did not give up. Because of Noah’s obedience to the Lord, we are here today. Like Noah, we need to be making preparations for the soon coming tribulation. I believe that the Lord is instructing people to prepare communities in remote wilderness areas for the time of trouble ahead. We all need to be seeking the Lord with much fasting and prayer concerning where to relocate. The cities, as well as populated areas are destined for judgment. This is not a time for fear but action. If we trust God as Noah did, then we will be obedient to him and follow his voice. God Bless!

War with Russia is Imminent

Four years ago, the Lord spoke to me in an audible voice and said, “War with Russia is coming”! Since then, the Lord has shown me more concerning this. I don’t know when or how this will begin but I do know that it is imminent. I believe that the current tensions with Russia over the annexation of Crimea is creating a hostile environment. This may not be the spark that triggers WW3, but it may help inflame Russia over another event in the near future. Yesterday, Vice President Joe Biden said that if Russia aggresses upon another European nation it will result in military action. Most of the European nations are members of NATO (North American Treaty Organization). All NATO member nations are under treaty to defend the soil of other NATO members as if it were their own soil.

Another concern of mine is Iran. Both Russia, as well as China, are under treaty to defend their ally Iran if they are attacked or invaded. There has been a lot of talk over the years about a military strike on Iran by either the USA or Israel. Israel made that threat again yesterday. The Lord also spoke to me that war with Iran is coming. This may be the catalyst that triggers the war with Russia/China, I don’t know.

I encourage you to read my post entitled, “Visions of the fall of America”, if you have not. I will now clarify what I believe will occur. I believe that war with Russia will begin WW3. There will be limited nuclear strikes. I believe they will originally use small yield nukes, such as backpack or suitcase nukes planted by terrorists. My vision of the nuclear destruction of Kansas City indicates this. At some point China will join Russia in war against America and they will defeat America. China will occupy America for a period of time. I believe that China will turn on Russia and destroy her by nuclear weapons. The book of Revelation indicates that two thirds of the earth will be destroyed by fire, I believe this to be nuclear fire. Joel also mentions pillars of smoke, as well as the sun being darkened and the moon turning the color of blood, this may all result from nuclear warfare.

There is hope for survival through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I believe that the Bible indicates that God will protect many of his children in wilderness areas during this time of Great Tribulation that is coming.

Visions of America's War Campaigns

Nothing escapes the eyes of the Lord, he sees all of the wickedness of man, as well as the suffering of his creation. The Lord is very displeased with America over the unjust brutal wars it has waged under the false banner of freedom. The Lord has given me a number of dreams, as well as visions concerning the American military machine and the abominations it has committed against innocent nations. Many people are under the false impression that George W. Bush was a Christian man who was following God’s direction when he led America to war against Iraq and Afghanistan, the truth is quite the opposite.

Bush admitted that he had an vendetta against Saddam Hussein, because Hussein threatened the life of his father. The USA also had oil interests in Iraq that proved too irresistible to the Bush administration. This was all confirmed by members of Bush's staff who reported that Bush told them to find a way to sell an Iraq invasion to the American public. Secretary of State Collin Powell even resigned after his first term in office because of the illegal invasion of Iraq. Bush's advisor recommended that he use the word freedom to justify the invasion and the American public blindly for the most part accepted the lie.

I would also like to point out that horrible weapons were used against the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan that are very inhumane, and some of them have now been banned by the Geneva convention. The American military used armor piercing munitions made from depleted uranium. These radioactive munitions set off Geiger counters, as well as caused cancers, and birth defects among the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as our troops. To this day, many areas of these two nations still set off Geiger counters. White phosphorous gas was used to light up the skies for night warfare, this gas was known to burn the skin off of people. The MOAB bomb (mother of all bombs) was also used to cause severe damage. In all of it's arrogance, America used Iraq, as well as Afghanistan to show off it’s weapons of mass destruction to the world.

God will judge this nation for it’s brutality, because America has ceased to be a good nation. Since America has removed all mention of God from sight and sound, so God will remove this nation from his sight. Abominations such as gay marriage, abortion of the innocent etc. will not go unpunished. I will now share dreams, as well as visions that the Lord has given me.

Back in 2003, shortly after the invasion of Iraq, God gave me this dream. I saw a semi truck trailer that was about half filled with canned food. The food was dispersed throughout the truck to make it appear that the truck was full of food. There were hundreds of Iraqi people lined up for this insufficient amount of food. One lady was crying and grabbing for the food and people were fighting her, as well as others for this food. Then the scene changed to that of a conservative Christian dinner being hosted by John Hagee. The good Christians were seated at round tables with white table cloths on them. They were all fat and eating thick steaks. John Hagee then spoke and said that Bush was God’s anointed President and that God used him to free the peoples of  Iraq, as well as Afghanistan, then the people all applauded. Then I stood up and pointed my finger at John Hagee and began to prophesy, I said something like, woe to you who support this war, for the blood of the innocent is upon your hands. I then also pointed my finger at those seated at the tables and prophesied something similar. God saw the starvation that resulted from this war and his justice will prevail. Water treatment plants were also destroyed in the war and were not repaired for up to three years. Typhoid, as well as cholera were the result. Shortly after I had this dream, it was reported on the news that many food trucks had an insufficient amount of food in them.

In another vision, God showed me the world, and the American flag was above it, and the flag became huge and enveloped the whole world. In another vision, God showed me America taking the rod to the nations that would not submit to it’s will. This was done in darkness according to the Lord. The Lord also showed me that he was not pleased that people were worshipping the American flag. I was given dozens of dreams, as well as visions about our nation but will not share them now. I will however share one more dream that the Lord gave me.

In a dream I was handed two scrolls. I unrolled the first and it contained God’s military offensive, which I believe to be evangelism. The second scroll contained a picture of a black mountain, as well as military plans and then I heard the radio go off, the voice sounded like an old radio broadcast from the 1940′s. It said, “Alert, Operation Stargazer, America’s military offensive continues”. I believe that this dream was indicating that America would continue it's offensive wars into future presidential administrations. The Lord is very displeased with the new Nazi like America that was birthed in 2001. Russia and China are not innocent by any means, they have been very brutal with their own people, as well as have persecuted Christians, and God will judge them also. But America is provoking both Russia and China militarily. America is having war games in very close proximity to their territories, as well as doing flyovers near their military bases. Our government uses the excuse that Russia is aggressive because of it's annexation of Crimea a couple of years ago. But the truth is that Crimea voted to leave the Ukraine and join the Russian Federation. Also, the missile defense system that the US is building in Romania and Poland is adding much fuel to the fire. Both Russia, as well as China are now buzzing our military aircraft and ships, and this could very easily lead to war. After conducting aggressive war campaigns in Serbia, Iraq, Afghanistan, as well as Libya, the USA is in no position to point the finger at other nations. 

I would like to clarify that I love this nation and I pray for it consistently. This great nation was founded as a Judeo-Christian nation dedicated to liberty. This nation was a light to the entire world at one time and our constitution reflects God’s intention for mankind, as well as what I base my political beliefs from. But our nation has now turned it’s back on God and has gone the way of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Dreams of the History of the Lukewarm Church

The Lord is very displeased with the unfaithfulness of many within the church today. Our immoral culture is well ingrained within the church and most who profess to know Christ, deny him by their lifestyle. It is hard to see the difference between the world and the church today. Around four years ago the Lord gave me two dreams of the moral condition of the church today.

The first dream I was standing next to an angel outside of a church building. I noticed the stone church building looked very Gothic in appearance and we proceeded to walk inside. The angel showed me various different rooms or sanctuaries within this building. Each room was a different Christian denomination or fellowship. I understood that the church building that we were in was a Roman Catholic Church and the Protestant denominations and fellowships were her offspring. The RCC is the mother of all harlots and the other churches (her offspring) are harlots, as well. In other words they are adulteress due to sin in their lives. Rev 17:1-15

Next the Angel led me into one of the rooms and he pointed to a glass display case that had wax figures in them that represented the persecution of true Christians by the church throughout the ages. It displayed true Christians being burned at the stake, as well as killed in other ways by the Protestant reformers, Martin Luther, John Calvin and others. It also displayed the drowning of the Ana-Baptists in barrels. The angel said that this was the history of the apostate church.

Then I noticed that I was standing within an Assembly Of God church, very similar to ones that I have attended in the past. The angel walked me down the aisles and pointed to the people sitting in the pews. I noticed that everyone was dressed in wedding garments, the men in tuxes and the women in white wedding dresses with veils. But many were dead rotting corpses still wearing wedding garments, seated next to living people throughout the congregation. I noticed that around sixty percent were dead corpses and around forty percent of the congregation were alive. Since the dead corpses were still wearing wedding garments, this is an indication that they were once born again, but now they were dead in their sins. Those who believe the once saved, always saved doctrine have been deceived by a lie from Satan. End of first dream.

The second dream that I had, I was looking into a prison. I witnessed Christians all dressed in orange prison jumpsuits. I knew many of them from Bible study groups that I formerly attended but they were all prisoners of sin, including one of the leaders. The Lord told me to reach into the prison and pull them out. I understood that the only way to free them was by teaching them the truth about repentance and sanctification (being set apart from the world), in order to be saved we must be born again. No one is perfect but we must press forward and pursue righteousness and not shrink back.
A big reason for this apostasy is the modern day grace message which is way out of balance. It is very true that we are saved by grace and that we can never be good enough to save ourselves and that is the reason why our Lord made atonement upon the cross. But God’s Word is also clear that faith without works is dead. We are called to be a set apart people that bears good fruit. We are to grow in the Lord, as well as to pursue righteousness.

 Within most churches the words righteous, holy, holiness, sanctification, etc are equated to legalism. The reason for this is because most will not endure sound doctrine because they want a feel good gospel instead of the truth of God’s Word. (NKJV) 2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, [because] they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn [their] ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. God’s Word also tells us that before the coming of the Lord that there will be a great falling away. (NKJV) 2 Thessalonians 2: 3 Let no one deceive you by any means; for [that Day will not come] unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,.

No one is perfect but we are called to grow in the truth of God’s Word and the more knowledge we have of the Word, the more responsibility we have to obey it. Christ said that if you love me you will keep my commandments. God’s Word also teaches us that we are to live holy lives. (NKJV) Ephesians 5:27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. (NKJV) 1 Peter 1:15 but as He who called you [is] holy, you also be holy in all [your] conduct, 16 because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” By the power of God’s Holy Spirit we can live a separated lifestyle from the world. We are called to repent of our sins and turn from them. The very word “born again” means to die to our old carnal ways and to be reborn as a new creation in Christ. (NKJV) 2 Corinthians 6:17 Therefore “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” 18 “I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the LORD Almighty”.

Also ponder these Scriptures. (NKJV) James 2:14 What [does it] profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what [does it] profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe — and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?

The modern day church is comparable to the church of Laodicea in that many are lukewarm within it. (NKJV) Revelation 3:15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 “So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — 18 “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, [that] the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. The bottom line is that many churches today are feeding their members a junk food gospel instead of the meat of God’s Word.

Fasting and Prayer

Introduction: Basically, fasting is not a command, but a very strong suggestion when you need a breakthrough in your life and just to show love and reverence to Your God on a regular basis.
Mel’s parents used to fast three days in a row every single month and they experienced real breakthroughs and miracles on a regular basis. Paul & Marie were true warriors of their faith and they had a marriage that was rock solid.

Do not announce you are fasting as this is between you and God. The only person that needs to know is your spouse. We would highly recommend fasting as a couple as this will strengthen your marriage. You can ask friends and family for basic prayer with or without being specific on why you need prayer and not mentioning that you are fasting.

We all face situations in life that may seem hopeless or unavoidable and God may seem very far away. But the truth is, that God is our ever present help in the times of trouble and He desires to intervene if we will just ask, as well as learn to trust him. God desires for us to have faith in him, as well as his ability to deliver his children out of the midst of the storm. It is not always God’s desire to answer our prayers or even heal our bodies, but we need to learn to trust that he knows what is best for us.

We have been in many crises situations, including now, and the Lord has always made a way out or brought peace through the storm. When we really need a breakthrough or guidance from the Lord, we go on a fast. Fasting is a time honored Biblical principle that many holy men underwent to see the birth of ministries, as well as miracles. The Prophet Daniel fasted 21 days and the result was that God sent the Angel Gabriel to him to give him visions of the last days. After Christ was baptized, he fasted forty days and was tempted by the Devil in the wilderness, after this, his ministry was birthed. Fasting shows sincerity to God, it shows God that you are willing to give up something you love, or need for him. Fasting is making a sacrifice for the Lord. It brings results and is never done in vain because it is also an act of faith.

Fasting is normally the act of giving up food for a period, while praying and seeking the Lord for a need. However, many people cannot fast off food for medical reasons. Yet, there are many ways a person can fast. You may fast, by giving up an activity that you enjoy, such as a sport, television, or music. The Lord will honor anything you give up for him. When fasting, wisdom should be used. A person should never give up water while fasting because this can cause serious medical issues. A person can only go four days without water, the result of dehydration may cause mental breakdowns, kidney failure, as well as death. If a person goes more than a week without food, it may cause seizures, strokes, heart attacks, allergic reactions etc. in some people, others may be able to go much longer. The more you give up for God, the more he will bless your fast.

Tips for fasting: If you have decided to fast, no matter what the length, you already have a reason for this. Do you need a breakthrough in your life, or do you desire to hear God’s Voice better? First, pray about it several days before you decide to dive in. If you get a real check in your spirit that seems as if this is a bad idea, then maybe you should postpone it. It could be that your motives for fasting are not pure, or that you have an underline health issue that would make skipping food a bad idea. Also, ask God for direction on how long you should fast and ask Him to use this time before, during, and after to really speak to your heart.

I am not going to say how often we fast or even mention the lengths of our fasting as this is between us and God, but I will say that neither of us has ever sought medical advice beforehand. That is entirely up to you, as you know your health issues better than anyone does. No matter the length, it is never a good idea to deprive your body of water. Even if only a 24 hour fast, staying hydrated is essential. Some people may say it is not a “true” fast if you include liquid, so I will leave that up to your conscience. Please consider the fact that people have been known to have seizures and other serious medical issues when going without water for longer than a day or two. If you choose to extend your fast beyond one day, we really recommend still ensuring you get protein. “Slim Fast” shakes and “Carnation” breakfast drinks are a great way to get protein without eating. Drinking good quality juices such as “V-8 Fusion” throughout the day is another way to ward off headaches, dizziness, and shakiness. Avoid juices high in acid, such as tomato and orange juices, as this will aggravate your empty stomach. Avoid sugary drinks as the last thing you need is a sugar crash. Some people advise drinking broth, which we have not tried, but if you do, make sure it is low sodium. Some also recommend avoiding caffeine, but we still have coffee once a day.

What to expect while fasting (if you are fasting longer than a day): the second day you will feel worse. Your body is detoxing and you will most likely experience headaches, shakiness, fatigue, dizziness, and moodiness. This is perfectly normal. Again, we highly recommend staying hydrated and drinking protein shakes once or twice a day and juice in between. Get as much sleep as your body needs. It is not a good idea to do a longer fast if working, and it is not really a good idea to drive if going longer than a day. If you feel super terrible, do not feel guilty if you need a few tablespoons of peanut butter or something else high in protein. However, try to avoid all solid food if you can as this shows true dedication to the reason(s) behind your fast. If you go into more than 2 days, you may feel better as your body begins to adjust and it is purging itself from sugar and sodium, but some people feel worse than day 2. Follow the same tips as mentioned. Pray to God to help you endure, but be cautious as well and seek medical attention if you cannot stand or experience other extreme conditions. You very well may experience liquid diarrhea. This is normal as your body is purging itself of toxins and this is another excellent reason to stay hydrated.
   
Your emotions will not be on an even keel. You are not only experiencing uncomfortable physical conditions as your body is deprived of food, but if your heart is truly open, God will want to communicate with you. Your emotions will go from high to low. You will feel joy and peace, and maybe some humility and contrition, but also frustration and anger, especially if you feel like you are not getting the breakthrough you were expecting. God understands, so just be honest with Him during your prayer time.

If your motives for fasting are pure, God will be pleased with you. He may or may not choose to let you know in dreams and/or visions, but be open to His Holy Spirit before, during, and after you fast. If you do not feel as if your prayers are answered, do not be discouraged, for God’s timing is usually not as our own. There is nothing wrong with fasting for 1-3 days then taking a few hours or even days to eat, then returning to fasting again. Fast as often as you feel God is calling you to do.
 
Most people will tell you to go into a fast slowly, but we have always just gone “cold turkey” and started the fast. However, it is a good idea to work up to an extended fast. We will not discourage you from fasting longer than a day, but do not recommend it the first time. Your body will be confused and you will feel sick, but doing 1 day the first time is pretty easy; beyond that may be too difficult and may be too discouraging if you have to break your fast early. Therefore, work up to it, one day the first 1-2 times, then 2 days, then when you really feel you can handle 2 days, then advance to 3. We do not recommend going longer than three days as this often leads to medical issues, but as I just wrote, if you feel the need to go longer than 3 days, take a break in between to eat, then start again.
Conclusion: All in all, the advice here is to pray before, during, and after your fast. Use this time to seek God and not just to sleep all day because you feel weak. Spend extra time in worship and getting into God’s Word as well. Be ready, willing, and able to hear what God may want to communicate to you during this time. If you watch television, this may be an excellent time to turn off or seriously limit the TV as well as the Internet. Do not use this as a time to feel sorry for yourself because your body feels uncomfortable, but each time you feel hungry or weak, meditate on God’s words. Look up in advance scriptures on God’s strength and guidance. Stay focused on why you are fasting and let that issue, as well as God, carry you through. No matter what results you achieve, fasting is never a waste of time and God will be pleased with your decision.

Scriptures on Fasting

Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. – Matt 6:16-18

And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” – Matt 17:18-21

Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. – Luke 2:36-37

As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away. – Acts 13:2-3