Jesus, the Completer of Law, Prophets, and All
By Robert Ricciardelli www.vision2advance.com
Matthew 5:17-19 17 “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. 18 I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. 19 So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.
King Jesus came with the policy of completion and not destruction of the old policies and procedures…
And yet, how do we reckon with the fact that He did in a sense destroy the “shadow” of what He was coming to fulfill. The Pharisees looked at Him as a heretic to the Mosaic standards. Stephen was stoned as a rebel against the current system, and Paul was a huge menace to the old patterns of expression, even amongst Christian brothers.
If we look at the seasons of God and especially the old covenant, we can see His Spirit driving the contents of the letter towards His Promise for all humanity, His Son Jesus. When the Completer comes, (the consummation of the law and the prophets), the letter is now replaced by the Life in the new and final covenant between God and all mankind. And yet while the letter is replaced, the Spirit of the letter remains in a perpetual continuum, represented in the fullness of Christ.
So Jesus did not abolish, but transfigured the law into His life and furthering the conceptual into His indwelling Spirit for every believer. Jesus engages us forever by being our Law and Guide for everyday life in the heart of every Christian.
A great example of the New Covenant overwhelmingly completing the old, is this scipture.
Matthew 11:11 - Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Any believer in Christ Jesus is greater than John the Baptist and any of the Prophets of old, because of the Promise, and the fullness that the old covenant pointed to. Having the Holy Spirit of God indwelt with us through Jesus Christ absolutely fulfills and exceeds the shadow of the law and the prophets. This is both amazing, and should further our desire to die to anything else that comes against living in the realm of His glory. Oh beloved, that we may all die to self and live for Him in ways that will give Him all honor and all glory.
Matthew 5:20 - Unless you do far better than the Pharisees in the matters of right living, you won't know the first thing about entering the kingdom.
Father has a standard of life beyond rules, regulations, and the Law.
Jesus is the law, the prophets, and the Eternal Word of God transfigured into the Spirit of life, and for all of life. Individual and Corporate Systems and Expressions, bow to the King and the Completer of our faith.
So much of the Body of Christ is still fragmented over the “letter” of what they believe. There are factions that resemble Judaism in expression, there are charismatic expressions, Baptist, and about 30,000 other expressions that just do it a little different, and often in their opinion, better, or more pleasing to God than the others.
When we make it about "our interpretation of the letter of the law", mostly we are missing the point, missing the Life, and certainly missing the unity Jesus prayed for in John 17 about being one as He and the Father are one. Can you imagine if we realized that it was all about Him, and being supernatural citizens of a supernatural Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven?
Are we willing to give up our way for His way? Are we willing to be wrong to be right? Lord may your Kingdom come to overwhelm us. Override our ways and our religion that gets in the way of your glory being expressed through us individually, as well as your body of light to the world.
Visionary Advancement Strategies is our Ministry along with Converging Zone. You will see Roberts Quotes and other's here.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Lacking Wisdom? Just Ask! by Robert Ricciardelli
James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
There was a young man once long ago, who grew up in a wealthy household. He had all the luxuries of wealth. He also grew up in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. He was not ensnared by many of the trappings of wealth as he was taught from a very young age, the virtues of God.
As the young man grew, he finally replaced his father David on the throne of the family kingdom. Because he was taught well, and knew the God of His father David, he began to talk to God often as a new king. The Lord loved his heart and his communication and wanted to bless him with any desire of his choosing.
This new king could have asked for endless wealth, or long life, but instead asked for wisdom. He asked the Lord for help in ruling the people with godly wisdom and understanding. As I look at myself and other leaders around the globe who are stewarding resources and our very lives for Father God, the great question is;
Are we asking the Father for the right and most proper thing a leader can lead with, His wisdom?
The reality is, how can we not ask of this if we truly want to be ambassadors and lead well for the glory of God? Leading without His wisdom, His understanding is absolutely fruitless.
We face many choices daily. When we choose with His leading, His wisdom and understanding, it goes well with us. When we are lacking in His wisdom and discernment, it often is disastrous. Disastrous because lives are being led in a wrongful focus or direction; Disastrous because Fathers provision and resources that are meant to build His Kingdom church, are being squandered in self-glorifying ways; Disastrous because those who do not know the Father are watching the foolish lead in ways that do not promote the King or His Kingdom justly.
Here are some directives we must WILLINGLY Pursue if we want His Wisdom activated in our lives…
• Value Wisdom beyond perceived needs and wants
• Allow His ways and wisdom to overwhelm our ways and mans wisdom
• Learn from our mistakes, stop it, just stop it, from making the same mistakes.
• Learn ways to impart wisdom to others
• Check your own heart first for wisdom before the hearts of others
• Build relationships with those who operate in wisdom
• Meditate on the word of guard regarding wisdom He has for you through His Spirit, and ask the Father to remove barriers to operating in His wisdom for your life.
Some Things to Remember
• Surely you desire truth in the inner parts ; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. ----Psalm 51:6
• God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. ----1Kings 4:29
• Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.----Proverbs 3:13-18
• The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of [Wisdom and skill], [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]; a good understanding, wisdom, and meaning have all those who do [the will of their Lord]. Their praise of Him endures forever. ----Psalm 111:10
• Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. ----Psalm 90:12
• The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over him, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, The Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God. Fear-of-God will be all his joy and delight. He won't judge by appearances, won't decide on the basis of hearsay. He'll judge the needy by what is right, render decisions on earth's poor with justice. His words will bring everyone to awed attention. A mere breath from his lips will topple the wicked. Each morning he'll pull on sturdy work clothes and boots, and build righteousness and faithfulness in the land. ----Isaiah 11:2-5
There was a young man once long ago, who grew up in a wealthy household. He had all the luxuries of wealth. He also grew up in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. He was not ensnared by many of the trappings of wealth as he was taught from a very young age, the virtues of God.
As the young man grew, he finally replaced his father David on the throne of the family kingdom. Because he was taught well, and knew the God of His father David, he began to talk to God often as a new king. The Lord loved his heart and his communication and wanted to bless him with any desire of his choosing.
This new king could have asked for endless wealth, or long life, but instead asked for wisdom. He asked the Lord for help in ruling the people with godly wisdom and understanding. As I look at myself and other leaders around the globe who are stewarding resources and our very lives for Father God, the great question is;
Are we asking the Father for the right and most proper thing a leader can lead with, His wisdom?
The reality is, how can we not ask of this if we truly want to be ambassadors and lead well for the glory of God? Leading without His wisdom, His understanding is absolutely fruitless.
We face many choices daily. When we choose with His leading, His wisdom and understanding, it goes well with us. When we are lacking in His wisdom and discernment, it often is disastrous. Disastrous because lives are being led in a wrongful focus or direction; Disastrous because Fathers provision and resources that are meant to build His Kingdom church, are being squandered in self-glorifying ways; Disastrous because those who do not know the Father are watching the foolish lead in ways that do not promote the King or His Kingdom justly.
Here are some directives we must WILLINGLY Pursue if we want His Wisdom activated in our lives…
• Value Wisdom beyond perceived needs and wants
• Allow His ways and wisdom to overwhelm our ways and mans wisdom
• Learn from our mistakes, stop it, just stop it, from making the same mistakes.
• Learn ways to impart wisdom to others
• Check your own heart first for wisdom before the hearts of others
• Build relationships with those who operate in wisdom
• Meditate on the word of guard regarding wisdom He has for you through His Spirit, and ask the Father to remove barriers to operating in His wisdom for your life.
Some Things to Remember
• Surely you desire truth in the inner parts ; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. ----Psalm 51:6
• God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. ----1Kings 4:29
• Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.----Proverbs 3:13-18
• The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of [Wisdom and skill], [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]; a good understanding, wisdom, and meaning have all those who do [the will of their Lord]. Their praise of Him endures forever. ----Psalm 111:10
• Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. ----Psalm 90:12
• The life-giving Spirit of God will hover over him, the Spirit that brings wisdom and understanding, The Spirit that gives direction and builds strength, the Spirit that instills knowledge and Fear-of-God. Fear-of-God will be all his joy and delight. He won't judge by appearances, won't decide on the basis of hearsay. He'll judge the needy by what is right, render decisions on earth's poor with justice. His words will bring everyone to awed attention. A mere breath from his lips will topple the wicked. Each morning he'll pull on sturdy work clothes and boots, and build righteousness and faithfulness in the land. ----Isaiah 11:2-5
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Chills, Frills, and Daffodils by Robert Ricciardelli
Those of you who know me, know my love for the Body of Christ. I look for Christ in people of every system, organization, expression, and through the various ways and doings of God’s people. I do my best to keep my eyes on Father, Son, and, Holy Spirit, and obedient to His Word and ways. I continue to encourage the Kingdom and will of God being expressed through every part of our being.
The Body of Christ does not agree on everything, but if you are a Christ follower, then you must agree on the major points Jesus expressed through His Word and His life… Here are a few of the truths we all should be in agreement on as Christ followers…
Romans 14:17 For the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Mark 12:28-31 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
"The most important one," Jesus answered, "is this: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.
Matthew 6:7-14 And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. 8 “So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.
9 “Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.10 ‘Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.11 ‘Give us this day our daily bread. 12 ‘And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 ‘And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.’] 14 “For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 “But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.
And finally Jesus famous prayer in John 17, and the key passage of all of us being one as He and the Father are one, so the world may know Him
John 17:21 that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.
I am all over that stuff and by His grace and through His Spirit, I seek to live in those ways. It is much easier when we are led by Him, to love as He does, and have grace as He does, but also live in His truth, as we should…
Now we come to the point of the title of this weeks pondering… And this is not easy, and I pray you will hear my heart on this.
One concern I have today is for the seemingly abundant pursuit of experience over content. Many in their hunger for God are being seduced into trends that do not breed sound doctrine or a sound mind. Many subjective teachings from charismatic leaders especially, are becoming doctrinal to some, and it seems in some situations it has become a completely wrongful focus. Now that does not take away from the real supernatural and unexplainable ways of God, but it calls to question the hype, manipulation, and deception that comes in the guise of something more, something different, fun, frenzied, and with a “wow” factor kick.
It seems like the more “extreme” the experience the more audiences it is capturing. So we now have a segment of people getting addicted to these experiences, waiting for the next “extreme” opportunity. I have seen several people, families, and churches drawn into this and though it has brought forth some numbers, in most cases it has been counter productive in bringing forth fruit that remains.
Father has deposited everything we need in each one of us to live in His supernatural presence and engage with Him in miraculous ways as He leads us and gives us grace to do so. In everyday life, most of the time He operates in powerfully practical ways, as He is motivated to flow through our lives as relevant witnesses of Himself to the earth.
Jesus was practical, supernaturally practical… What is it you need? And then He would answer the need in miraculous ways… We are now going around as the needy. A part of the Body of Christ is hungry and thirsty for self-pleasing excitement, manifestations, “glory realm” experiences, and often missing the real opportunities of relevant service and love to those who need it the most.. I am all for experiences and supernatural transformation when God’s glory brings them, but it should not be our pursuit, and shame on those that lead others to chasing frenzied experiences rather than the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness.
One woman was so thrilled as she had traveled to 3 conferences in a row that had gems seemingly appear on the floors of the church, (the leader is known for having gems in their meetings). I asked her what it meant to her when she saw gemstones in meetings, and she said that it meant that God loved her. I do not pretend to think I have a lot of answers, but I am always good with the questions, so I asked her. “Can you feel God’s abiding love when you do not see gemstones?” Could it not be severely compromising to seek after a sign for proof of God’s love? Later it was found out that an assistant to this speaker had planted the fake gemstones in the church before the meeting began.
Matthew 16:4 Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah 6 “Watch out!” Jesus warned them. “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
Now keep in mind, I have experienced as well as many others the unexplainable miraculous power of God, but we were not seeking after the signs, but the signs follow believers as they follow after Him. I do not doubt that God can do whatever He wills, but they it will be real, and not staged. And because it happens, we hope people do not sensationalize and market that this is what happens when this person shows up at your conference. I had heard of another church that found dozens of these gems. This is a poor church in another country. I asked if they were able to sell the gems and feed the poor, and the answers was no, because they could not identify the stone. They said experts claimed it was from another planet, so they had no value on earth. I asked if it were possible for me to get a sample to do my own test and they declined.
I have a lot of questions. I don’t have all the answers and only the Father can show you His way for you. I am not sharing this out of experience, and I am also not sharing this for any other motive than to encourage the very best for the Body of Christ. If it is not His best or His intent, will we embrace change. Will we go after His best in character, integrity, love, mercy, and all the good God stuff? Can we begin to embrace the “BE ATTITUDES” of His word, and allow Him to bring the experiences of His glory that we need as we worship Him in every day life?
If you are pursuing Him and your experiences are a part of that flow, who am I to anyone really to question that? I am simply asking all of us to consider what we are engaging with. What are our motives? What is Father doing? What does He desire for us through our relationships, communities, and experiences? Is there more that He desires from us in our pursuit of Him?
Lord, help us pursue you alone, and not chase after signs or wonders? May we allow You to bring your signs and wonders as You see fit to follow our obedience to You. Lead us towards your agape love and pursue those who need your love. Help us to not get caught up in feel good phenomena’s in order to serve You and others more. Help us to think less of self as we are busy about your business in doing more good to others. When your presence overwhelms us, many awesome and wondrous things begin to happen. We desire to pursue You, Your presence, Your will, Your love, and expect the supernatural to occur in everyday life. We know that as we allow You to lead us into Christ-likeness, the gates of hell will not prevail against us and Your beloved church.
The Body of Christ does not agree on everything, but if you are a Christ follower, then you must agree on the major points Jesus expressed through His Word and His life… Here are a few of the truths we all should be in agreement on as Christ followers…
Romans 14:17 For the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Mark 12:28-31 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
"The most important one," Jesus answered, "is this: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.
Matthew 6:7-14 And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. 8 “So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.
9 “Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.10 ‘Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.11 ‘Give us this day our daily bread. 12 ‘And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 ‘And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.’] 14 “For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 “But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.
And finally Jesus famous prayer in John 17, and the key passage of all of us being one as He and the Father are one, so the world may know Him
John 17:21 that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.
I am all over that stuff and by His grace and through His Spirit, I seek to live in those ways. It is much easier when we are led by Him, to love as He does, and have grace as He does, but also live in His truth, as we should…
Now we come to the point of the title of this weeks pondering… And this is not easy, and I pray you will hear my heart on this.
One concern I have today is for the seemingly abundant pursuit of experience over content. Many in their hunger for God are being seduced into trends that do not breed sound doctrine or a sound mind. Many subjective teachings from charismatic leaders especially, are becoming doctrinal to some, and it seems in some situations it has become a completely wrongful focus. Now that does not take away from the real supernatural and unexplainable ways of God, but it calls to question the hype, manipulation, and deception that comes in the guise of something more, something different, fun, frenzied, and with a “wow” factor kick.
It seems like the more “extreme” the experience the more audiences it is capturing. So we now have a segment of people getting addicted to these experiences, waiting for the next “extreme” opportunity. I have seen several people, families, and churches drawn into this and though it has brought forth some numbers, in most cases it has been counter productive in bringing forth fruit that remains.
Father has deposited everything we need in each one of us to live in His supernatural presence and engage with Him in miraculous ways as He leads us and gives us grace to do so. In everyday life, most of the time He operates in powerfully practical ways, as He is motivated to flow through our lives as relevant witnesses of Himself to the earth.
Jesus was practical, supernaturally practical… What is it you need? And then He would answer the need in miraculous ways… We are now going around as the needy. A part of the Body of Christ is hungry and thirsty for self-pleasing excitement, manifestations, “glory realm” experiences, and often missing the real opportunities of relevant service and love to those who need it the most.. I am all for experiences and supernatural transformation when God’s glory brings them, but it should not be our pursuit, and shame on those that lead others to chasing frenzied experiences rather than the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness.
One woman was so thrilled as she had traveled to 3 conferences in a row that had gems seemingly appear on the floors of the church, (the leader is known for having gems in their meetings). I asked her what it meant to her when she saw gemstones in meetings, and she said that it meant that God loved her. I do not pretend to think I have a lot of answers, but I am always good with the questions, so I asked her. “Can you feel God’s abiding love when you do not see gemstones?” Could it not be severely compromising to seek after a sign for proof of God’s love? Later it was found out that an assistant to this speaker had planted the fake gemstones in the church before the meeting began.
Matthew 16:4 Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah 6 “Watch out!” Jesus warned them. “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
Now keep in mind, I have experienced as well as many others the unexplainable miraculous power of God, but we were not seeking after the signs, but the signs follow believers as they follow after Him. I do not doubt that God can do whatever He wills, but they it will be real, and not staged. And because it happens, we hope people do not sensationalize and market that this is what happens when this person shows up at your conference. I had heard of another church that found dozens of these gems. This is a poor church in another country. I asked if they were able to sell the gems and feed the poor, and the answers was no, because they could not identify the stone. They said experts claimed it was from another planet, so they had no value on earth. I asked if it were possible for me to get a sample to do my own test and they declined.
I have a lot of questions. I don’t have all the answers and only the Father can show you His way for you. I am not sharing this out of experience, and I am also not sharing this for any other motive than to encourage the very best for the Body of Christ. If it is not His best or His intent, will we embrace change. Will we go after His best in character, integrity, love, mercy, and all the good God stuff? Can we begin to embrace the “BE ATTITUDES” of His word, and allow Him to bring the experiences of His glory that we need as we worship Him in every day life?
If you are pursuing Him and your experiences are a part of that flow, who am I to anyone really to question that? I am simply asking all of us to consider what we are engaging with. What are our motives? What is Father doing? What does He desire for us through our relationships, communities, and experiences? Is there more that He desires from us in our pursuit of Him?
Lord, help us pursue you alone, and not chase after signs or wonders? May we allow You to bring your signs and wonders as You see fit to follow our obedience to You. Lead us towards your agape love and pursue those who need your love. Help us to not get caught up in feel good phenomena’s in order to serve You and others more. Help us to think less of self as we are busy about your business in doing more good to others. When your presence overwhelms us, many awesome and wondrous things begin to happen. We desire to pursue You, Your presence, Your will, Your love, and expect the supernatural to occur in everyday life. We know that as we allow You to lead us into Christ-likeness, the gates of hell will not prevail against us and Your beloved church.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Beauty & the Beast by Robert Ricciardelli
We have often heard the truth, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder”. As I looked at the world around us, creation, people, it is amazing how beautiful it all is. God calls it good. And when we look at His most prized creation, people, He has many wonderful things to say. He knew us before He formed us, He formed us in His image, we are fearfully and wonderfully made, the apple of His eye, and all kinds of wonderful things.
So we know that God places value on each one of us. Dirty, clean, saved, unsaved, Christian, Muslim, Jew, or Atheist, God sees value. That value will never diminish from his eyes or His hope for each one. The value may never reach the promise God had planned, which is culminated in the Lordship of Christ, but yet the value seed remains in every human being. Whether we see the beauty and value or not, there is no doubt in how Father God sees it.
Ultimate Beauty – God perspectives
When I consider ultimate beauty it must accompany parts that are not visible at a glance. These parts however will reveal themselves over time in people. Wholeness is godly integration of body, soul, and spirit. In becoming a “whole” person, a person of ultimate beauty, there are foundational features that exhibit His nature while revealing God’s hope for all humanity.
Love - This is foundational because God is love. Everything He has done or will ever do is motivated by His Agape love. Love has many adjectives attached to it, as we see in 1Corinthians 13 and all through the Word of God. And it is a word that encompasses motivation and deed, “doing good to others”, “Preferring others before ourselves”. It is a word that demands acts and expressions of His nature. Loving as He loves is a beautiful thing.
Justice - God is a God of Justice; you cannot separate godly justice from love as they are fully integrated. Many times when justice comes, many may cry out, “but where is the love?” and the answer is, God’s justice encompasses love. Walking justly before God and man is a beautiful way to walk.
Worship – What is it that motivates the person? What is the “apple of man’s eye”? We know that there is only One worthy to be praised and worshipped. Almighty God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! When we live our lives, every aspect of it, as worship to our Father, His presence is pleased and manifests powerfully through us.
A person who lives as worship to God is a beholder of beauty.
Wholeness would seem to be an integration of all these in a persons life that would reveal ultimate beauty and not the “skin deep” variety that the world’s eyes promote and worship. It is the ultimate beauty that the world needs, and Father through His Spirit has allowed us access. If we remain in Him and obedient to walking in His Beauty. we must walk in Love, Justice, and Worship. As we do, we will become the soul catching ambassadors of promise that Father desires us to be.
The Beast
Oh but what about the beast? Oh yes He is lurking in the shadows waiting to strike and bring his ugliness out. We know there are principalities at work all around us and yet there is still ourselves that often choose to exhibit the beast. It is called flesh and it is ugly, and comes directly against the beautiful nature of God.
It comes out in all kinds of ways, jealousy, murder, envy, selfishness, greed, lust, and exchanging lies for truth. The sadness comes when His people of light to the world are living in this manner. You can see it across the board from pulpit to pew, from prince to pauper, and many times in Jesus name. We have all fallen short, so none of us have been exempt. But there is a remedy; there is a better way.
Taming the beast
1. Repent - The greatest way to begin to tame the beast and live a life of ultimate beauty for God is to acknowledge our sin, and repent and turn from it. He says He is faithful to forgive, but are we faithful to turn, and stay turned from self seeking lifestyles?
2. Humility - When we walk humbly before our God, and realize that He is our only sustenance of life, the beast begins to lose some steam.
3. Intimacy – Father wants our hearts and not anything more. The more will come when the heart is in loving relationship with Him. He wants time with us. Are you giving Him time? Are you talking with Him, listening to Him, and giving Him something to work with?
4. Obedience – He desires this above any sacrifice. He loves “Father pleasers”, so be a “Father pleaser” rather than one who pleases self or any man.
5. “Ultimate Beauties” the beast cannot come out if we live in His ultimate pleasure and beauty. Love much, Love truth and justice, while walking in it, and live your life, your “whole” life, as worship to your Father.
So we know that God places value on each one of us. Dirty, clean, saved, unsaved, Christian, Muslim, Jew, or Atheist, God sees value. That value will never diminish from his eyes or His hope for each one. The value may never reach the promise God had planned, which is culminated in the Lordship of Christ, but yet the value seed remains in every human being. Whether we see the beauty and value or not, there is no doubt in how Father God sees it.
Ultimate Beauty – God perspectives
When I consider ultimate beauty it must accompany parts that are not visible at a glance. These parts however will reveal themselves over time in people. Wholeness is godly integration of body, soul, and spirit. In becoming a “whole” person, a person of ultimate beauty, there are foundational features that exhibit His nature while revealing God’s hope for all humanity.
Love - This is foundational because God is love. Everything He has done or will ever do is motivated by His Agape love. Love has many adjectives attached to it, as we see in 1Corinthians 13 and all through the Word of God. And it is a word that encompasses motivation and deed, “doing good to others”, “Preferring others before ourselves”. It is a word that demands acts and expressions of His nature. Loving as He loves is a beautiful thing.
Justice - God is a God of Justice; you cannot separate godly justice from love as they are fully integrated. Many times when justice comes, many may cry out, “but where is the love?” and the answer is, God’s justice encompasses love. Walking justly before God and man is a beautiful way to walk.
Worship – What is it that motivates the person? What is the “apple of man’s eye”? We know that there is only One worthy to be praised and worshipped. Almighty God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! When we live our lives, every aspect of it, as worship to our Father, His presence is pleased and manifests powerfully through us.
A person who lives as worship to God is a beholder of beauty.
Wholeness would seem to be an integration of all these in a persons life that would reveal ultimate beauty and not the “skin deep” variety that the world’s eyes promote and worship. It is the ultimate beauty that the world needs, and Father through His Spirit has allowed us access. If we remain in Him and obedient to walking in His Beauty. we must walk in Love, Justice, and Worship. As we do, we will become the soul catching ambassadors of promise that Father desires us to be.
The Beast
Oh but what about the beast? Oh yes He is lurking in the shadows waiting to strike and bring his ugliness out. We know there are principalities at work all around us and yet there is still ourselves that often choose to exhibit the beast. It is called flesh and it is ugly, and comes directly against the beautiful nature of God.
It comes out in all kinds of ways, jealousy, murder, envy, selfishness, greed, lust, and exchanging lies for truth. The sadness comes when His people of light to the world are living in this manner. You can see it across the board from pulpit to pew, from prince to pauper, and many times in Jesus name. We have all fallen short, so none of us have been exempt. But there is a remedy; there is a better way.
Taming the beast
1. Repent - The greatest way to begin to tame the beast and live a life of ultimate beauty for God is to acknowledge our sin, and repent and turn from it. He says He is faithful to forgive, but are we faithful to turn, and stay turned from self seeking lifestyles?
2. Humility - When we walk humbly before our God, and realize that He is our only sustenance of life, the beast begins to lose some steam.
3. Intimacy – Father wants our hearts and not anything more. The more will come when the heart is in loving relationship with Him. He wants time with us. Are you giving Him time? Are you talking with Him, listening to Him, and giving Him something to work with?
4. Obedience – He desires this above any sacrifice. He loves “Father pleasers”, so be a “Father pleaser” rather than one who pleases self or any man.
5. “Ultimate Beauties” the beast cannot come out if we live in His ultimate pleasure and beauty. Love much, Love truth and justice, while walking in it, and live your life, your “whole” life, as worship to your Father.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Unsettled, Resettled, Then Mettle! by Robert Ricciardelli
The pathway toward the Kingdom of God is interesting, isn't it? We think we have made it to the summit only to see another pinnacle to climb. When we think we can relax, plant roots, and get comfortable, all of a sudden - a mighty wind blows, once solid foundations begin to crumble, and we stand there bewildered, asking God, "WHAT NOW?"
Please let me share a bit of our story with you…
UNSETTLED
Several years ago the Lord began to allow a stirring within Joyce and me. Our life within Corporate America became very uncomfortable. Our ministry was fully funded through my business to business sales and marketing career. God's continued favor over our business life allowed us to endure tough economic times and competition, yet all the while, an unrest seemed to settle over all that we called normal life. We sensed that God was requiring us to look beyond the security of our present circumstances, and acknowledge that life as we knew it was about to change. We spent the next 5 years knowing we were in transition, but when it finally came, it came suddenly. God told us to go - leave jobs, our beautiful home, all our family, and head to Waco, Texas. Though it came swiftly, the Father had prepared us with a resolve to serve Him wherever His Spirit led us to go, and to fulfill all that He had for us to do. (I am so blessed to have a wife who is a pioneer and sojourner with me on His journey.) In my mind, I had it all figured out. God was going to take us to the Promised Land - the land of milk and honey, and prosper us financially in the course of helping with a friend’s business start-up; all for His purposes.
RESETTLED
So we went to Texas with the hopes of success and funding for the journey the Lord would send us on. We began to settle in. Our house in Washington was up for sale, and we had a buyer within weeks, the business concept (children's academy of movement, sports, and character training) was unique, viable, and in great demand. We had a dear godly friend and NFL veteran coach as a partner, along with a famous football player, and it was going to impact communities for Jesus and the Kingdom of God.
The Promised Land began to quickly become the backside of the desert for us. The house did not sell (it fell through 2 days before closing), the finances that went into the business was depleted, along with our life's savings and retirement, all within a matter of 9 months. Our friends also put everything they had into this adventure. What happened to the promise? Did we hear wrong? Being human, we admit we all made some mistakes, but where was the Lord in all of this? A friend said to me, "God is unsettling you to resettle you." The Lord was removing everything that stood between us and Him, so that He would be our only source.
METTLE
By this time we were desperate to hear from the Lord for direction. Did the Lord want us to go back, stay, or move elsewhere? Many were praying for us and the Lord responded through His messengers. Many times through those that were not even aware of the petitions we had before the Lord, and many times through those who knew nothing about us. One passage given to Joyce was confirmed over and over in unique ways. Hebrews 11: 8, “It was by faith that Abraham…went out without knowing where he was going.” We felt we were to continue forward even if we did not have answers to all our questions. It was confirmed over and over again that we were not to go back by the way in which we came, and if we stayed on this faith journey with Him, the Lord would show us His best for our life. In the end, we felt God telling us to go east. This was not an easy decision - by any means; because many good things (but now in hindsight - not God things) seemed to open up that would allow us to return to our comfort zone. But in the end, after turning down job offers in San Diego and Seattle, with our house still empty and waiting for our return, family beckoning, and finances depleted, all the indicators still pointed East. And, in God-like fashion, as we were stretched, we became stronger in our faith like never before, (Mettle).
Many things that have come up unexpectedly have kept us on this narrow path from month to month, but the Lord has been so faithful. Had many of the things happened along the way that we “expected” to happen, we would have missed seeing the Lord intervene on our behalf, again and again. From two people who had been taught “to make it happen”, we are learning to be content in the place we find ourselves and not lean on our own understanding. We have become accustomed to, and even comfortable with “going without knowing”.
We believe God has more for us, and we are not pretending to think that we have done all the right things, or, that we have not missed His voice from time to time. We are thankful for those dear friends who have loved us, believed in us, and listened to the Father on our behalf, helping us to go and do His bidding. We are thankful for a roof over our heads, a vehicle, and our health. We are still standing. We have had divine opportunities to coach and consult, along with obedient givers to get us through each month. Our journey would send the financial prosperity message in a tailspin, but the prosperity of faith and favor has soared tremendously over us.
LESSONS LEARNED
• Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all things will be added to you for the journey ahead, to the glory of God.
• There is no cookie cutter way or method to the things God may have specifically planned for you.
• Be ready to be unsettled, resettled, and go through some repeat cycles.
• Be ready to be tested severely, but the pay off in obedience more than makes up for the pain you had to endure.
• Nothing is permanent; Christ is the only rock we can be assured of now and for all time.
• Your pain and suffering will end. There is an end and for us it is a very good end. The end of the matter is always greater than the beginning in Christ.
• All things work together for good.
• Many are the plans of man, but the Lord's purposes prevail.
• Going without knowing, is the only way to go.
• God is our only source.
Many of you have been receiving these articles for the past 8 years. Thank you for your prayers and for your love. We know the Father has heard those prayers, and each have lent strength to help us endure the path He has us on. We love you...
Please let me share a bit of our story with you…
UNSETTLED
Several years ago the Lord began to allow a stirring within Joyce and me. Our life within Corporate America became very uncomfortable. Our ministry was fully funded through my business to business sales and marketing career. God's continued favor over our business life allowed us to endure tough economic times and competition, yet all the while, an unrest seemed to settle over all that we called normal life. We sensed that God was requiring us to look beyond the security of our present circumstances, and acknowledge that life as we knew it was about to change. We spent the next 5 years knowing we were in transition, but when it finally came, it came suddenly. God told us to go - leave jobs, our beautiful home, all our family, and head to Waco, Texas. Though it came swiftly, the Father had prepared us with a resolve to serve Him wherever His Spirit led us to go, and to fulfill all that He had for us to do. (I am so blessed to have a wife who is a pioneer and sojourner with me on His journey.) In my mind, I had it all figured out. God was going to take us to the Promised Land - the land of milk and honey, and prosper us financially in the course of helping with a friend’s business start-up; all for His purposes.
RESETTLED
So we went to Texas with the hopes of success and funding for the journey the Lord would send us on. We began to settle in. Our house in Washington was up for sale, and we had a buyer within weeks, the business concept (children's academy of movement, sports, and character training) was unique, viable, and in great demand. We had a dear godly friend and NFL veteran coach as a partner, along with a famous football player, and it was going to impact communities for Jesus and the Kingdom of God.
The Promised Land began to quickly become the backside of the desert for us. The house did not sell (it fell through 2 days before closing), the finances that went into the business was depleted, along with our life's savings and retirement, all within a matter of 9 months. Our friends also put everything they had into this adventure. What happened to the promise? Did we hear wrong? Being human, we admit we all made some mistakes, but where was the Lord in all of this? A friend said to me, "God is unsettling you to resettle you." The Lord was removing everything that stood between us and Him, so that He would be our only source.
METTLE
By this time we were desperate to hear from the Lord for direction. Did the Lord want us to go back, stay, or move elsewhere? Many were praying for us and the Lord responded through His messengers. Many times through those that were not even aware of the petitions we had before the Lord, and many times through those who knew nothing about us. One passage given to Joyce was confirmed over and over in unique ways. Hebrews 11: 8, “It was by faith that Abraham…went out without knowing where he was going.” We felt we were to continue forward even if we did not have answers to all our questions. It was confirmed over and over again that we were not to go back by the way in which we came, and if we stayed on this faith journey with Him, the Lord would show us His best for our life. In the end, we felt God telling us to go east. This was not an easy decision - by any means; because many good things (but now in hindsight - not God things) seemed to open up that would allow us to return to our comfort zone. But in the end, after turning down job offers in San Diego and Seattle, with our house still empty and waiting for our return, family beckoning, and finances depleted, all the indicators still pointed East. And, in God-like fashion, as we were stretched, we became stronger in our faith like never before, (Mettle).
Many things that have come up unexpectedly have kept us on this narrow path from month to month, but the Lord has been so faithful. Had many of the things happened along the way that we “expected” to happen, we would have missed seeing the Lord intervene on our behalf, again and again. From two people who had been taught “to make it happen”, we are learning to be content in the place we find ourselves and not lean on our own understanding. We have become accustomed to, and even comfortable with “going without knowing”.
We believe God has more for us, and we are not pretending to think that we have done all the right things, or, that we have not missed His voice from time to time. We are thankful for those dear friends who have loved us, believed in us, and listened to the Father on our behalf, helping us to go and do His bidding. We are thankful for a roof over our heads, a vehicle, and our health. We are still standing. We have had divine opportunities to coach and consult, along with obedient givers to get us through each month. Our journey would send the financial prosperity message in a tailspin, but the prosperity of faith and favor has soared tremendously over us.
LESSONS LEARNED
• Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all things will be added to you for the journey ahead, to the glory of God.
• There is no cookie cutter way or method to the things God may have specifically planned for you.
• Be ready to be unsettled, resettled, and go through some repeat cycles.
• Be ready to be tested severely, but the pay off in obedience more than makes up for the pain you had to endure.
• Nothing is permanent; Christ is the only rock we can be assured of now and for all time.
• Your pain and suffering will end. There is an end and for us it is a very good end. The end of the matter is always greater than the beginning in Christ.
• All things work together for good.
• Many are the plans of man, but the Lord's purposes prevail.
• Going without knowing, is the only way to go.
• God is our only source.
Many of you have been receiving these articles for the past 8 years. Thank you for your prayers and for your love. We know the Father has heard those prayers, and each have lent strength to help us endure the path He has us on. We love you...
Saturday, January 24, 2009
"Gappers" For the Kingdom by Robert Ricciardelli
"Gappers" For the Kingdom
By Robert Ricciardelli www.vision2advance.com
Hebrews 12:26-29
26At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." 27The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.
28Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29for our "God is a consuming fire."
If you have a pulse you should be noticing that we are in a shake, rattle, and roll season of life. It is vital that we remain confident in our Lord regardless of the turbulent atmosphere swirling all around us. Jesus was not moved by elements, and He is encouraging us all to not me moved by our present circumstances. He wants us to live, move, and have our being, totally in Him. He desires for us to move boldly into every storm knowing that He is with us, He is for us, and He will never leave us. We do not have to abandon ship, because He is the Ship, He is the Captain, and He is with us to the depths of every dark and murky sea.
So as we move boldly in Him we can now approach His throne of grace on behalf of those we love, and those we are called to intercede and stand in the gap for. Yes that is right, we are the "gappers" that the Father has chosen to come before Him on behalf of others. The current shaking has caused many to be operating out of fear instead of faith, and we must lift them up. We need His effectual empowerment daily, and we need our brothers and sisters to rise up in His overcoming strength.
The Body of Christ must realize how much we need each other. We all have gaps and we all need them to be filled and the Father has called us to fill each others gaps not only in prayer but in supernatural "one anothering" I am reminded of the first "Rocky" movie when Rocky says to Adrian, "I got gaps you got gaps, and together we fill each others gaps". It is a great way to serve, and a great way to show His Apape love.
We must become Kingdom personalities that operate in our true identities of Christ in us, the Hope of glory! With Christ in us, who can stand against us? Can the economy? What can mere man do to eternity and the Eternal One in each of us? What can the devil or any opposition really do?
If we are operating in religious protocols versus Kingdom resurrection power in Him, we can be moved, stopped, hindered, and overwhelmed by the opposition. When we are not knowing who we truly are, we do a lot of unfruitful things operating out of that false identity. The enemy has no fear of a Kingdom-less church, and does not fret over Kingdom-less believers. What must we do?
First of all, we must engage intimately with Him, stay on His track for us, His will, His purposes. And go about it without fear. Fear is a myth in our mind. If we continue to die to self and live in Him, fear decreases, and eventually becomes powerless... I wish I could say that I have attained that every moment of every day, but as I pursue Him, I am seeing greater episodes of His glory. Here is a thought we can all stand on......
Philippians 3:12-16
12-14 I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.
15-16 So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it.
Who has God called you to be a "gapper" for? Are you praying for them boldly, or mired in the muck of self-pity and self-focus? Has Father assigned you to meet the practical needs that someone may have? Have you asked Him whose gaps you need to be filling? As you become "gappers" in obedience to the Father, you will begin to see Him fill yours supernaturally, and through those quickened by Him to be "gappers" for you.
26At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." 27The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.
28Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29for our "God is a consuming fire."
If you have a pulse you should be noticing that we are in a shake, rattle, and roll season of life. It is vital that we remain confident in our Lord regardless of the turbulent atmosphere swirling all around us. Jesus was not moved by elements, and He is encouraging us all to not me moved by our present circumstances. He wants us to live, move, and have our being, totally in Him. He desires for us to move boldly into every storm knowing that He is with us, He is for us, and He will never leave us. We do not have to abandon ship, because He is the Ship, He is the Captain, and He is with us to the depths of every dark and murky sea.
So as we move boldly in Him we can now approach His throne of grace on behalf of those we love, and those we are called to intercede and stand in the gap for. Yes that is right, we are the "gappers" that the Father has chosen to come before Him on behalf of others. The current shaking has caused many to be operating out of fear instead of faith, and we must lift them up. We need His effectual empowerment daily, and we need our brothers and sisters to rise up in His overcoming strength.
The Body of Christ must realize how much we need each other. We all have gaps and we all need them to be filled and the Father has called us to fill each others gaps not only in prayer but in supernatural "one anothering" I am reminded of the first "Rocky" movie when Rocky says to Adrian, "I got gaps you got gaps, and together we fill each others gaps". It is a great way to serve, and a great way to show His Apape love.
We must become Kingdom personalities that operate in our true identities of Christ in us, the Hope of glory! With Christ in us, who can stand against us? Can the economy? What can mere man do to eternity and the Eternal One in each of us? What can the devil or any opposition really do?
If we are operating in religious protocols versus Kingdom resurrection power in Him, we can be moved, stopped, hindered, and overwhelmed by the opposition. When we are not knowing who we truly are, we do a lot of unfruitful things operating out of that false identity. The enemy has no fear of a Kingdom-less church, and does not fret over Kingdom-less believers. What must we do?
First of all, we must engage intimately with Him, stay on His track for us, His will, His purposes. And go about it without fear. Fear is a myth in our mind. If we continue to die to self and live in Him, fear decreases, and eventually becomes powerless... I wish I could say that I have attained that every moment of every day, but as I pursue Him, I am seeing greater episodes of His glory. Here is a thought we can all stand on......
Philippians 3:12-16
12-14 I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.
15-16 So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it.
Who has God called you to be a "gapper" for? Are you praying for them boldly, or mired in the muck of self-pity and self-focus? Has Father assigned you to meet the practical needs that someone may have? Have you asked Him whose gaps you need to be filling? As you become "gappers" in obedience to the Father, you will begin to see Him fill yours supernaturally, and through those quickened by Him to be "gappers" for you.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Great Shaking and Awakening by Robert Ricciardelli
The shaking and dismantling continues around the world’s systems, within the church systems, and within each of us. False foundations exposed brings opportunity for godly foundations to be established. I just got back from the annual Charismatic Round Table held at the offices of Strang Communications in Orlando. This continues to be a valuable dialogue, and I am thankful for Steve Strang, Lee Grady, and Strang Communications for their obedience in hosting this venue each year. 75 church and ministry leaders gathered to understand more fully where we are, what we are doing, and especially what must we do going forward, to improve and give God glory in this segment of His church in America. There were various discussions surrounding several topics, and hopefully all of us came away with some possible solutions as we go forward.
This pondering came forth as I reflected, as well as looked ahead to the opportunities before us. This year culminated similar to the trend of recent years, yet with more shock and awe to those not discerning the times. It was another year of God exposing us to us. Exposing the weaknesses in our systems and methods of trying to touch Him, and trying to touch the world around us. We seem to continue to lower our standards in valuing character and integrity, especially in those who lead. Many have fallen into experiential leading of self-agenda’s, comical methods, and frenzied impressions of His presence. Nobody is laughing any longer, these are serious times, and it demands a people who know the wealth we carry in us, and the God who designed us for so much more.
There is no question that much of this has come through hunger for the real thing, so I thank God for that hunger in those seeking His presence. For those who worship Him in Spirit and in Truth, He is a loving God that answers them regardless of the chaotic environment in which they may find themselves. We saw some of that again this year as well. The good news is that many are hungry. The bad news is that some are hungry enough to manufacture a filling for their desires. We are created in His image, and so we do have the ability to create. When we create outside of His heart, His leading, and His character, we can sure make a mess of things.
Thank God for grace, but we are living in the days of toleration for leaders regardless of their personal character or integrity. In pursuing what seems to be His glory, many may drop their guard and engage, rather than having full disclosure as to who is leading, what are they doing, and where is this all going? Many have neither matured towards rightfully discerning God’s truth, or they have chosen to shut down discernment for their own agenda’s or desires. When the mess comes the leaders may try and present a silver lining in the chaos, or utilize spin-filled reasoning for the lack of sound judgment. Finally, it sometimes sadly comes down to the fact that they just don’t care what happens as long as somebody got touched for good. There are those in the world, and even among us that may be more likely to trust a bartender than a Christian leader, and that is truly sad. I apologize to the bartenders in advance for comparing them to these types of leaders.
Many are questioning the established church because of its failures, and inability to impact the people and communities we live in. They are wondering why it just is not working. There are so many expressions of Christianity, and so many that are missing plumb-line truth, that it leaves one confused as to what Christianity really is. I am often compelled to give a more complete answer now when I am asked if I am a Christian. Here is my current response, “I am a follower of Jesus Christ, and the ways of His eternal Kingdom”.
Expressions and labels are inadequate of themselves in communicating and bringing forth the power of who we really are. We are Christ to the world and our identity must be in Him, and through Him. Our identity must be in the person of Jesus and not in a label—whether it is what others have given us, or one we have given ourselves. Denominations and church gatherings of all types are vehicles of directing us towards Him, but we will come to a powerless halt when we look to them, rather then the Father and His Eternal Son. It is not about the structure, but He will shape the environment and the community as we seek Him first.
“The shaking we are experiencing today is a move of God, who wants to live and move and have His being through His people. He wants to change the world through us!”
God is bearing down upon established systems of men, whether it is government institutions, or institutional churches. I must include organic gatherings too, because humanity often has it’s grip in those gatherings as well. He is truly shaking all things so that all that we can look to for security is Him. He is making it clear that He is a jealous God, jealous for our love, our affection, and our very lives. During this season, He is giving us a tremendous opportunity to go a better way, to walk in His eternal ways, and to love in His supernatural and transforming love.
Because we have continued to make the wrong things the main things, He is bringing us towards simplification of the one and only truth, It’s ALL ABOUT HIM. We have relied on systems and it was never about the systems. We have relied on Government systems and Jesus paid very little attention to Caesar and made it clear that Caesar was only to be given that which was his. Certainly we were not to entrust ourselves to these systems and governments, nor relying on them for sustenance that can only come from Him.
He did not want us to look too intently on our church structures, because at best they were inadequate in light of whom He is. This is not to diminish our need for gathering with one another, or making sure we engage with those that God has ordained as teachers and nurturers of our soul. He wants our identity and focused attention on Him and not on the peripherals of this world. His original intent was not for religion, though He has used it, but His original design was for a people freely willing to be called unto Himself.
We are seeing so many looking here and there, for “this” and “that”, while expecting the deceptive “this” and “that” to be the keys in finding Him. Father is desires for us come to Him so He can show us this, that, and the next thing He has for us. If you are spiritually unsatisfied, don’t remove yourself from your faith community to search after a better one, seek Him first and He will point you to all the right places and all the right faces. We do not want to continue to be looking for love in all the wrong places. Don’t expect that by moving from one system to the next, you are going to find what you are looking for. Father knows best, ask Him what you must do.
The Lord is bringing a mighty shaking to man-made religious, government, and various other structures in this hour. He is beckoning us to be free. He does not want anyone or anything to interfere with His personal guidance for each one of His children.
In other words, He desires for us to be in the world, but not of it. Our divine priority is not to so much in establishing organizations that grow, but to establish people who grow in relationship with Him, and each other, while pursuing Christ-likeness.
I like the way The Message describes the shaking we are experiencing: “‘One last shaking, from top to bottom, stem to stern.’ The phrase ‘one last shaking’ means ‘a thorough housecleaning, getting rid of all the historical and religious junk so that the unshakable essentials stand clear and uncluttered’” (Heb. 12:26-27).
We have seen various movements and church systems come and go through the years, and many have been ineffective in producing lasting spiritual fruit that releases people into God’s directive destiny. We have institutions that have done little to impart to, empower, or release God’s people so that we can have genuine impact for the kingdom of God.
None of these organizations are necessarily wrong, but often they point to men or methods rather than releasing them to hear from the Father themselves. Scripture led controls under the descriptions of protection, covering, and obedience; often enslave those whom Christ has set free.
These organizations often become destiny stealers rather than destiny enablers. They captivate people within the four walls of a building instead of empowering them for service in the harvest fields of everyday life. Deception, fear and unhealthy authority structures often pull people into man-centered movements that fulfill the leader’s agenda.
When we become free from systematic controls and false “coverings,” Jesus can rule and reign within us and guide us into all truth. We will continue to chase experience, chills, and frills, in substitution of the real thing, until we decide to use our brains, common sense, and at least an ounce of discernment. A friend of mine recently made a profound comment to what we are seeing, “We have taken a quart of His Spirit, and three quarts of humanity, and called it a gallon of God.”
In the last 25 years in every county in America, the growth of Christianity has decreased per capita. That does not sound like the overcoming church in which the gates of hell cannot prevail against. Thus the shaking and awakening from a loving Father who sees His potential in us that we have yet to realize.
CLARIFICATION: Please do not misunderstand me; this is not a call to leave a system or institution to another form, but a calling forth of a revolutionary people that will not settle for what was, or even what is, but to engage in more of what the Father wants. His desire is for more relating with Him personally, outside of our larger gatherings, while going to another level in relating and loving one another within them. As we live as His disciples, we can then take His love and presence into the marketplace and into every fabric of society the Lord has released us into. Let’s kick our unfruitful habits to the curb, while allowing His presence and His nature to abound.
The shaking we are experiencing today is a move of God, who wants to live and move and have His being through His people. He wants to disciple and transform nations through us! He is working a divine exchange by demanding His plans to prevail over ours.
Proverbs 19:21 “Many are the plans in a man's heart... but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."
Jesus said, “‘My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me’”.
If we listen to His voice, it doesn’t matter what denomination or structure of community we belong to. It is not about a system; it is about Him.
The rumbling we hear will continue until revelation of Him increases in order for us to walk powerfully in the reality of His purposes for each of us. As we yield our will for His, He will empower us to present His supernatural Kingdom to the world. His power and love will pour out of us as we allow Him to use us to bring about His purposes. Let us now choose to embrace the shaking, examine ourselves, and shake more of the flesh away to reveal His Spirit.
Father, may we bring you glory in the freedom we have in you, and in your ways. Shake us and wake us towards your Kingdom and your truth. Help us to live in moment-to-moment reality of your presence, and your better way, in Jesus name.
This pondering came forth as I reflected, as well as looked ahead to the opportunities before us. This year culminated similar to the trend of recent years, yet with more shock and awe to those not discerning the times. It was another year of God exposing us to us. Exposing the weaknesses in our systems and methods of trying to touch Him, and trying to touch the world around us. We seem to continue to lower our standards in valuing character and integrity, especially in those who lead. Many have fallen into experiential leading of self-agenda’s, comical methods, and frenzied impressions of His presence. Nobody is laughing any longer, these are serious times, and it demands a people who know the wealth we carry in us, and the God who designed us for so much more.
There is no question that much of this has come through hunger for the real thing, so I thank God for that hunger in those seeking His presence. For those who worship Him in Spirit and in Truth, He is a loving God that answers them regardless of the chaotic environment in which they may find themselves. We saw some of that again this year as well. The good news is that many are hungry. The bad news is that some are hungry enough to manufacture a filling for their desires. We are created in His image, and so we do have the ability to create. When we create outside of His heart, His leading, and His character, we can sure make a mess of things.
Thank God for grace, but we are living in the days of toleration for leaders regardless of their personal character or integrity. In pursuing what seems to be His glory, many may drop their guard and engage, rather than having full disclosure as to who is leading, what are they doing, and where is this all going? Many have neither matured towards rightfully discerning God’s truth, or they have chosen to shut down discernment for their own agenda’s or desires. When the mess comes the leaders may try and present a silver lining in the chaos, or utilize spin-filled reasoning for the lack of sound judgment. Finally, it sometimes sadly comes down to the fact that they just don’t care what happens as long as somebody got touched for good. There are those in the world, and even among us that may be more likely to trust a bartender than a Christian leader, and that is truly sad. I apologize to the bartenders in advance for comparing them to these types of leaders.
Many are questioning the established church because of its failures, and inability to impact the people and communities we live in. They are wondering why it just is not working. There are so many expressions of Christianity, and so many that are missing plumb-line truth, that it leaves one confused as to what Christianity really is. I am often compelled to give a more complete answer now when I am asked if I am a Christian. Here is my current response, “I am a follower of Jesus Christ, and the ways of His eternal Kingdom”.
Expressions and labels are inadequate of themselves in communicating and bringing forth the power of who we really are. We are Christ to the world and our identity must be in Him, and through Him. Our identity must be in the person of Jesus and not in a label—whether it is what others have given us, or one we have given ourselves. Denominations and church gatherings of all types are vehicles of directing us towards Him, but we will come to a powerless halt when we look to them, rather then the Father and His Eternal Son. It is not about the structure, but He will shape the environment and the community as we seek Him first.
“The shaking we are experiencing today is a move of God, who wants to live and move and have His being through His people. He wants to change the world through us!”
God is bearing down upon established systems of men, whether it is government institutions, or institutional churches. I must include organic gatherings too, because humanity often has it’s grip in those gatherings as well. He is truly shaking all things so that all that we can look to for security is Him. He is making it clear that He is a jealous God, jealous for our love, our affection, and our very lives. During this season, He is giving us a tremendous opportunity to go a better way, to walk in His eternal ways, and to love in His supernatural and transforming love.
Because we have continued to make the wrong things the main things, He is bringing us towards simplification of the one and only truth, It’s ALL ABOUT HIM. We have relied on systems and it was never about the systems. We have relied on Government systems and Jesus paid very little attention to Caesar and made it clear that Caesar was only to be given that which was his. Certainly we were not to entrust ourselves to these systems and governments, nor relying on them for sustenance that can only come from Him.
He did not want us to look too intently on our church structures, because at best they were inadequate in light of whom He is. This is not to diminish our need for gathering with one another, or making sure we engage with those that God has ordained as teachers and nurturers of our soul. He wants our identity and focused attention on Him and not on the peripherals of this world. His original intent was not for religion, though He has used it, but His original design was for a people freely willing to be called unto Himself.
We are seeing so many looking here and there, for “this” and “that”, while expecting the deceptive “this” and “that” to be the keys in finding Him. Father is desires for us come to Him so He can show us this, that, and the next thing He has for us. If you are spiritually unsatisfied, don’t remove yourself from your faith community to search after a better one, seek Him first and He will point you to all the right places and all the right faces. We do not want to continue to be looking for love in all the wrong places. Don’t expect that by moving from one system to the next, you are going to find what you are looking for. Father knows best, ask Him what you must do.
The Lord is bringing a mighty shaking to man-made religious, government, and various other structures in this hour. He is beckoning us to be free. He does not want anyone or anything to interfere with His personal guidance for each one of His children.
In other words, He desires for us to be in the world, but not of it. Our divine priority is not to so much in establishing organizations that grow, but to establish people who grow in relationship with Him, and each other, while pursuing Christ-likeness.
I like the way The Message describes the shaking we are experiencing: “‘One last shaking, from top to bottom, stem to stern.’ The phrase ‘one last shaking’ means ‘a thorough housecleaning, getting rid of all the historical and religious junk so that the unshakable essentials stand clear and uncluttered’” (Heb. 12:26-27).
We have seen various movements and church systems come and go through the years, and many have been ineffective in producing lasting spiritual fruit that releases people into God’s directive destiny. We have institutions that have done little to impart to, empower, or release God’s people so that we can have genuine impact for the kingdom of God.
None of these organizations are necessarily wrong, but often they point to men or methods rather than releasing them to hear from the Father themselves. Scripture led controls under the descriptions of protection, covering, and obedience; often enslave those whom Christ has set free.
These organizations often become destiny stealers rather than destiny enablers. They captivate people within the four walls of a building instead of empowering them for service in the harvest fields of everyday life. Deception, fear and unhealthy authority structures often pull people into man-centered movements that fulfill the leader’s agenda.
When we become free from systematic controls and false “coverings,” Jesus can rule and reign within us and guide us into all truth. We will continue to chase experience, chills, and frills, in substitution of the real thing, until we decide to use our brains, common sense, and at least an ounce of discernment. A friend of mine recently made a profound comment to what we are seeing, “We have taken a quart of His Spirit, and three quarts of humanity, and called it a gallon of God.”
In the last 25 years in every county in America, the growth of Christianity has decreased per capita. That does not sound like the overcoming church in which the gates of hell cannot prevail against. Thus the shaking and awakening from a loving Father who sees His potential in us that we have yet to realize.
CLARIFICATION: Please do not misunderstand me; this is not a call to leave a system or institution to another form, but a calling forth of a revolutionary people that will not settle for what was, or even what is, but to engage in more of what the Father wants. His desire is for more relating with Him personally, outside of our larger gatherings, while going to another level in relating and loving one another within them. As we live as His disciples, we can then take His love and presence into the marketplace and into every fabric of society the Lord has released us into. Let’s kick our unfruitful habits to the curb, while allowing His presence and His nature to abound.
The shaking we are experiencing today is a move of God, who wants to live and move and have His being through His people. He wants to disciple and transform nations through us! He is working a divine exchange by demanding His plans to prevail over ours.
Proverbs 19:21 “Many are the plans in a man's heart... but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."
Jesus said, “‘My sheep hear My voice and I know them, and they follow Me’”.
If we listen to His voice, it doesn’t matter what denomination or structure of community we belong to. It is not about a system; it is about Him.
The rumbling we hear will continue until revelation of Him increases in order for us to walk powerfully in the reality of His purposes for each of us. As we yield our will for His, He will empower us to present His supernatural Kingdom to the world. His power and love will pour out of us as we allow Him to use us to bring about His purposes. Let us now choose to embrace the shaking, examine ourselves, and shake more of the flesh away to reveal His Spirit.
Father, may we bring you glory in the freedom we have in you, and in your ways. Shake us and wake us towards your Kingdom and your truth. Help us to live in moment-to-moment reality of your presence, and your better way, in Jesus name.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
You Can't Handle the Truth by Robert Ricciardelli
A friend sent some pondering thoughts the other day. I have copied it at the end of this, so you can see how the Lord stirred my own pondering for this week. Most of us remember the movie “A Few Good Men”, and the famous line by Jack Nicholson, “You want the Truth? Well you can’t handle the truth”. I thought about this in light of my own life, the lives of God’s people, and how the same question and statement could be made to us.
Do we really want the truth?
Jesus says you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. It seems that many believers simply desire to live out of compromised paradigms, traditions, and religion, rather than seeking after the truth that will set them free. They say truth hurts, but it “hurt is so good”, when it can set someone free. If we are serious followers of the King and His Kingdom, it would seem to be a high priority for all of us to passionately go after truth. We must constantly declare, bring on the truth Lord, set me free to know you more and bring you glory through my life.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Hearing the Truth
I was speaking to the leadership team of a church recently about relationships. Do we know how to relate? Can we trust one another? What can we do to move towards greater trust filled relationships? As a coach and consultant, one of the biggest challenges I often witness is the fact that God’s people are so easily offended. Jesus promised we would be, and yet we will end a God ordained relationship over some of the smallest offenses.
One of the smallest offenses that often happen in people’s lives is when someone exposes them to truth. Let’s consider truth that is given through relationship and love with godly delivery and timing. Why then would the truth not be received? And even if timing was off, and the delivery was awkward, would not the truth still be The Truth?
Get Over It
One of the people I was coaching was painfully offended by a close friend. The friend had revealed some tendencies that this person may want to consider changing. This Relationship that had been forged for many years came to a screeching halt because of this. The client admitted that all that the friend had said was true. Instead of being offended, my client should have thanked this friend for loving them enough to speak the truth. It turns out that even family members and other friends were aware of these unhealthy relational habits, and said nothing.
A deceptive reality often presents the one with truth as the bad or unloving person. Kingdom of God reality presents those willing to bring truthful enlightenment, as ones willing to risk for the sake of His love and His freedom. Therefore the one that becomes obediently willing to bring truth to set the captives free, loves much. The one’s that hold back truth to a friend because of fear, must now question their agendas, bondages, or the ability to operate in Fathers agape love.
Spirit Led
Keep in mind, that Jesus, being led by the Spirit, only spoke what the Father intended. So even in our humanity, we must be Spirit led in His ways. A word of truth fitly spoken should be intended to be divinely timed, delivered, and in the Spirit of love as we are led by Him.
Timing and language is critical. We can get in God’s way when we do not operate in high level discernment. Are we praying for this person? Are we coming with the heart of the Father, or the desire to be right? What is our motive? Many have brought forth truth maliciously and this is not God’s will.
Can You Handle the Truth?
So can we handle the truth? Can we live in His presence, hear His voice, and deliver His truth to those we love? Can we receive the truth? Can we receive it from those who desire the Fathers best for us? Can we appreciate truth from someone who can see truth for us, and yet lacking truth in their own life. Can we receive it even if the person’s timing, delivery, and agenda seem to be off? Can we have grace and appreciation for those who may miss the mark in their willingness to risk for the sake of truth?
Embrace the Truth, bring it on!
Truth is truth, can we receive it without rejecting the messenger. Let’s begin a fresh new journey of safe authentic relationships in which we begin to not only give permission, but insist on genuine, relational truth exchanges. These are serious days, and we must be serious about our relationship with the Father and with one another. This is a great season to be the overcoming church that Jesus lived and died for. Lord bring forth your transformational truth and we receive it in whatever form you bring it. Bring it on Lord!
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A Few Good Men, by Vincent Sucec
Movie - "A Few Good Men" with Jack Nicholson and Tom Cruise. Famous court room scene, "YOU CANT HANDLE THE TRUTH !!!" If the nature of Truth is revealing the nature of things then wouldn’t He have to slowly do this ? If we couldn’t handle the truth wouldn’t the issue be US? So by nature then the Light is the Truth - illuminating areas that are closed or hidden.
The question to then should be Lord show ME where I am missing it ! This position in the Lords Light is not topical, it is not a matter of proving anything, it is entirely relational at that point - it is a matter of alignment to theTruth that already IS. A photograph is developed in darkness. A copy.
An original is appreciated, adored, honored. It is priceless. The Master Artist is just trying to teach us How to paint a true Original.
An original relates to an ultimate origin – to identity. The enemy is the father of lies. A lie is a mutation of the Truth - it is a copy - a re-production. We are all originals and plagiarism is akin to usury and envy ...
Do we really want the truth?
Jesus says you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. It seems that many believers simply desire to live out of compromised paradigms, traditions, and religion, rather than seeking after the truth that will set them free. They say truth hurts, but it “hurt is so good”, when it can set someone free. If we are serious followers of the King and His Kingdom, it would seem to be a high priority for all of us to passionately go after truth. We must constantly declare, bring on the truth Lord, set me free to know you more and bring you glory through my life.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Hearing the Truth
I was speaking to the leadership team of a church recently about relationships. Do we know how to relate? Can we trust one another? What can we do to move towards greater trust filled relationships? As a coach and consultant, one of the biggest challenges I often witness is the fact that God’s people are so easily offended. Jesus promised we would be, and yet we will end a God ordained relationship over some of the smallest offenses.
One of the smallest offenses that often happen in people’s lives is when someone exposes them to truth. Let’s consider truth that is given through relationship and love with godly delivery and timing. Why then would the truth not be received? And even if timing was off, and the delivery was awkward, would not the truth still be The Truth?
Get Over It
One of the people I was coaching was painfully offended by a close friend. The friend had revealed some tendencies that this person may want to consider changing. This Relationship that had been forged for many years came to a screeching halt because of this. The client admitted that all that the friend had said was true. Instead of being offended, my client should have thanked this friend for loving them enough to speak the truth. It turns out that even family members and other friends were aware of these unhealthy relational habits, and said nothing.
A deceptive reality often presents the one with truth as the bad or unloving person. Kingdom of God reality presents those willing to bring truthful enlightenment, as ones willing to risk for the sake of His love and His freedom. Therefore the one that becomes obediently willing to bring truth to set the captives free, loves much. The one’s that hold back truth to a friend because of fear, must now question their agendas, bondages, or the ability to operate in Fathers agape love.
Spirit Led
Keep in mind, that Jesus, being led by the Spirit, only spoke what the Father intended. So even in our humanity, we must be Spirit led in His ways. A word of truth fitly spoken should be intended to be divinely timed, delivered, and in the Spirit of love as we are led by Him.
Timing and language is critical. We can get in God’s way when we do not operate in high level discernment. Are we praying for this person? Are we coming with the heart of the Father, or the desire to be right? What is our motive? Many have brought forth truth maliciously and this is not God’s will.
Can You Handle the Truth?
So can we handle the truth? Can we live in His presence, hear His voice, and deliver His truth to those we love? Can we receive the truth? Can we receive it from those who desire the Fathers best for us? Can we appreciate truth from someone who can see truth for us, and yet lacking truth in their own life. Can we receive it even if the person’s timing, delivery, and agenda seem to be off? Can we have grace and appreciation for those who may miss the mark in their willingness to risk for the sake of truth?
Embrace the Truth, bring it on!
Truth is truth, can we receive it without rejecting the messenger. Let’s begin a fresh new journey of safe authentic relationships in which we begin to not only give permission, but insist on genuine, relational truth exchanges. These are serious days, and we must be serious about our relationship with the Father and with one another. This is a great season to be the overcoming church that Jesus lived and died for. Lord bring forth your transformational truth and we receive it in whatever form you bring it. Bring it on Lord!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Few Good Men, by Vincent Sucec
Movie - "A Few Good Men" with Jack Nicholson and Tom Cruise. Famous court room scene, "YOU CANT HANDLE THE TRUTH !!!" If the nature of Truth is revealing the nature of things then wouldn’t He have to slowly do this ? If we couldn’t handle the truth wouldn’t the issue be US? So by nature then the Light is the Truth - illuminating areas that are closed or hidden.
The question to then should be Lord show ME where I am missing it ! This position in the Lords Light is not topical, it is not a matter of proving anything, it is entirely relational at that point - it is a matter of alignment to theTruth that already IS. A photograph is developed in darkness. A copy.
An original is appreciated, adored, honored. It is priceless. The Master Artist is just trying to teach us How to paint a true Original.
An original relates to an ultimate origin – to identity. The enemy is the father of lies. A lie is a mutation of the Truth - it is a copy - a re-production. We are all originals and plagiarism is akin to usury and envy ...
Friday, January 2, 2009
You Have Hope, You ARE a Hope by Robert Ricciardelli
Joyce and I want to thank God for each of you and pray that this year becomes increasingly significant because of His overcoming presence in your life. We pray that despite the challenges you face, the Lord would show Himself mightily in every aspect of your lives.
Recently I met with someone who knows the Lord, but has been bruised by the things of this world, and especially the current challenges many of us now face. Mostly there was discouragement on a pathway to despair. There is despair, there is sorrow, and many times there is just a flatline,….No hope. Without hope or purpose, insignificance, discouragement, and ultimately despair can become a stronghold.
The Bible teaches us in Proverbs 29:18 that without vision or purpose, people perish. It triggered me to consider a response for this person that is similar to what I am about to share. YOU ARE CREATED FOR A PURPOSE THAT EFFECTS MULTITUDES AS IT IS FULFILLED IN HIM AND THROUGH HIM. Everyone born into this world has a purpose. There is not one who has been born or will ever be born without a purpose.
Jeremiah 1:5 "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my spokesman to the world." Psalm 22 10When I left the womb you cradled me; since the moment of birth you've been my God.
Thankfully this person I met knows the Father and is on their way towards His purposes and plans. Whether those that are born into this world ever realize their purpose, or ever know their God, does not take away the fact that the Lord is LORD of all things, and He has an intention for good for every living soul. You have hope if you know Jesus, You have hope if you know you have a purpose to live out. You ARE hope and a light to potentially everyone you will ever meet. You are not of this world, so may times your battle is what you feel or see, rather than who you truly are in Christ. The kingdom of God is beyond matter, it is beyond what we can see or even imagine.
Isaiah 55 8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD . 9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Life with the Lord on this earth is a process of understanding and fulfilling the reason you were born. To the measure we allow ourselves to draw near to our Savior and renew our minds to His Word, is the measure by which we will hear His voice, and follow the destiny He had purposed for us before the foundations of the World. Hearing His voice, responding in obedience, and living in His presence is the reality we need to engage with every moment of every day.
1 Samuel 2 "For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world. 9 He will guard the feet of his saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness. "It is not by strength that one prevails;
Even those that were born out of a rape or perceived accident were created for a purpose. It is a powerful revelation. As you walk through this life and trust God with everything, He will open up doors for you and in time, you will know your purpose. Consider this…… After you go through your whole life here on earth, you will be amazed when the Lord brings up your life’s video on how much impact you made in this world, even if you think, or the devil tells you that you were insignificant. You will also see the opportunities missed, but He will remove every tear. Obedience now leads to less tears for missed oppoertunities, and the joy we can live in as willing and obedient children of our Almighty Father.
The Lord will replay for you in His home theater the times that love, grace, or prayer, set in motion the eternal destinies of others. He will show you times that you heard His voice, which sparked a discussion, which triggered an answer for someone, which changed their thoughts, which changed their direction, which saved their life, and the life of many others they were ever to meet. There is this eternal stuff going around us everyday that we have no clue about. In your work day, you may react with love in a situation that most people would not and guess what, you could be changing the outcome or direction of another life.
Everything is eternal and has eternal consequences for good as well as for not so good….. We choose doing good as faithful servants to store up heavenly treasures and please our heavenly Father. You do make a difference even when you may not feel like you do. We are a witness everyday whether we want to be or not. The type of witness depends on how much we die to ourselves and let the Lord live through us in His intended plans and purposes. The world without you fulfilling your destiny effects not just your life, but multitudes. Your life as an ambassador to the King will effect multitudes even if you are not fully aware.
Philippians 3 13 -Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.
Let us press on together my brothers and sisters…. We have a life in God to fulfill. Do not let this world stop you. Do not let the devil or self thoughts hold you back. You have a hope, but now knowing this, you must live and BE the Ambassadors of Hope in Him to the World. We are soldiers of the King, we have the victory in Him. It is already won .. It is finished… and all we have to do is march in His purposes and plans in this life, and march on into our eternal destiny with Him. My love, His love, abounds for all of you in Jesus name!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
"What Ifs" for 2009 by Robert Ricciardelli
Every Year I share my evolving "What If" list. There are many what ifs in many situations in life. What ifs can be good, especially reflecting about the way things are and “what if” we changed them, or aligned ourselves toward them to the glory of God. We only know in part, so it is always good to check what we think we know often.
Please remember that these are only what ifs, purposed to shake up paradigms, while firming up Kingdom foundations. Many "What Ifs” are happening all around us, but what if they were not just the exception? What if they became realities? My prayers are to continually stimulate possibility thoughts towards ways that bring forth His Kingdom through our lives.
Here are my What Ifs as we move into 2009:
What if we prayed for our leaders rather than complain about who we have or didn’t have in office?
What if we realize that God is on the throne and will have His way regardless of who is in office and that we are called to pray His will and purposes for the nation?
What if we gave to Caesar (government) what is Caesar’s, and gave to God what is His, which is our very lives?
Jesus was consumed with His Father’s Kingdom being brought to the earth, what if we focused on that rather than our political processes and gave that burden to Him?
What if we were using what we do have, and quit wasting time worrying about what we don’t have?
What if we did not fear any longer, no fear of life or death, because we are in His hands?
What if we heard the words “Stop it, just stop it” and began to truly stop the negative thought patterns? Stop it, just Stop it, thinking that way, in Jesus name!
What if we could really understand and activate true repentance in every area of our lives, instead of just feeling sorry for our patterns of sin?
What if we could forgive every wrong ever committed against us in the past and swiftly in the days ahead?
What if we allowed His presence to eradicate bitterness from the depths of our souls?
What if we realized and applied His freedom from every deliberate and unintentional wounds of our childhood?
What if we were never a victim again, because the revelation of Christ and His grace sufficed daily for us?
What if we could forgive ourselves and move on past the shame simply because Jesus has forgiven us?
What if we accepted and believed with all of our heart, soul, and mind that Jesus loves us, accepts us, and is for us every moment of every day? And just the way we are!
What if we accepted the fact that HE ACCEPTS US AS WE ARE to the point that it overwhelms the fact that we do not accept ourselves?
What if we could live the way of the cross, persecution, and dying to self, because it is the narrow way He asked us to follow?
What if we died to self more so that Christ lived through us more, and every single need met as our joy was made complete in Him?
What if we could just rest in who we are in Christ, rather than running around doing activities He never called us to do? Being rather than doing!
What if we really believed God loved us and it had nothing to do with our past, or our future performances? Resting in Him!
What if pastors and leadership teams around the world would train and release every member of their church into the ministry that the Lord has called them to, and especially beyond the four walls of organized church?
What if we actually picked up our mats and walked in obedience when we were delivered, rather than come back for prayer and healing for the same things week after week?
What if leaders would seek to always serve beyond ever having to be being served?
What if leaders would seek to train and lead others in the vision God has for them as individual ministers and trust the Holy Spirit to move on them to support the community or corporate vision.
What if leaders did not respond to fear of rejection and failure but trust the Lord for any perceived numbers they expect to see. Or, not look at numbers at all!
What if city wide transformation begins to take place because each individual realized their purpose and calling and was released to fulfill it beyond the four walls?
What if every church pastor sought relationship with the other pastors of the community to fulfill a city wide vision beyond their own ministries? That they realized their vision for the city could not be realized without partnering with others.
What if we realized the Lord owned everything we have and asked us to steward everything, and that we would ask Him how much to give and to where, always willing to give 100% if He were to ask that of us?
What if all the children of God understood and operated in the full authority that Jesus Christ sacrificed for us to have?
What if Kingdomized people began to bring the Kingdom authority to all the gates of the city. That Kingdom people would lead the way in government, business, healthcare, media, law, and educational jurisdictions of our cities?
What if every believer never settled for how they view themselves while seeking the Father to know the full potential of what He sees in them?
What if we would accept others and the blessing they are, rather than be offended by them in their differences?
What if we chose to see the good in people, pray for the rest, and love them regardless if they changed as we think they should?
What if more souls for the kingdom and the releasing of every saint into ministry far outweighed any focus on mammon or control?
What if we all were willing to serve in every phase of our lives rather than being served?
What would happen if every believer realized the lifetime process we are in and could walk without judgment, beside those not as far along in the process?
What if what we thought was reality was revealed as not, so as to get us to living a life that is filled with reality and purpose for the kingdom?
What if we choose to not be offended when offenses came, or at least choose to let go of all offenses immediately?
What if we chose to forgive in every situation and not only because the Father said He would not forgive us unless we did, but because it was in our hearts to love in that way?
What if we really were blinded to culture, creed and credentials as the family of God?
And what if we were excited about the uniqueness of each difference, and the value of each expression of God's people?
What if spiritual Fathers would be motivated with a heart of giving to their spiritual sons that far outweighed any thoughts of what they would receive in return?
What if we had abundantly more Shepherds, (pastors), willing to run after the few of the flock that have been hurt, isolated and in need of life giving expressions of our Saviors love?
What would happen if God's people really prayed and communicated intimately with the Father on a daily basis?
What if we had every Christian home open and available for the faith community every week? And how about daily?
What if every believer was more concerned about being Father's change agents for people, families and communities, rather than holding on, and waiting for Jesus to mystically remove them from the very earth He desires them to change.
What if the perceived rapture were a long ways off, or to not to come at all, would we still be about our Father's business in establishing His kingdom upon the earth?
What if we really did not fear dying for Him and in fact chose to die to self daily in order to truly live in and through Him?
What if we lived and moved and had our being in the Holy Spirit 24 hours a day and 7 days a week?
What if every word or deed was received with the Father's heart and mind and every response that came forth from us in word and deed was likewise from the heart of the Father?
What if we would rather have a towel (servant), than a title in leadership?
What if we realized that we must seek to trash every idol in our life to really be free to serve in the army of our Lord?
What if we realized that the greatest idol that you and I have is "self", then began to become selfless in our pursuit of Christ and His Kingdom?
What if every believer realized that their obedience to all that they do each day was ministry unto Him and His kingdom?
What if every housewife and mother understood that she was in full time ministry in her role?
What if the people of God saw the ministry the Lord is doing through His daughters, while becoming free from limited mindsets regarding the Father’s potential and ministry in women.
What if we saw that the Kingdom of God as beyond race, gender, or age, but diversity of expression in His glorious Kingdom.
What if every businessman or blue collar worker realized that in Christ, they were full time ministers in their calling?
What if every business owner understood that people are their greatest resource and began to pastor their businesses?
What if every business owner looked at their employees, vendors, and customers, as part of their household or sphere of godly influence?
What if every Christian business owner looked as their lives and businesses as an impact for the community?
What if there was no difference in the perceived spirituality of a organized church pastor and one who pastors their home, business, and community.
What if we actually believe God speaks in relevance for today beyond the written word in alignment of the written word?
What if we actually could actually hear a relevant word for today that was in line with the heart and written word of God?
What if there was greater prophetic accountability?
What if there were more prophetic people apologizing when they spoke amiss, as often as they publicly acknowledged when they got one right?
What if we worshipped the foundation of all order, (Christ), beyond the order or perceived order of things?
What if the living Word, (Christ Himself) replaced any dead theoretical, theological, Christological religion?
What if we had fellowship or connections with others during the week instead of relying on one Sunday Service, which was never designed to meet our ”one anothering” needs.
What if the earth really was filled with the glory of the Lord and He is just waiting for us to get involved?
What if true wealth is measured in what you give away?
What if the family became the primary context of the Church?
What if we loved as He loved?
What if we spoke as He spoke?
What if we did what He did?
What if we really believed we could lay hands on the sick and watch them recover?
What if my opinions were okay, because they were my opinions and people would love me even if my opinions were different from theirs?
What if we all could appreciate the different cultures and expressions in God’s Kingdom, regardless if we understood them, or fancied them.
What if people understood the commanded to love, and would love by choice rather than out of having to feel "the love"?
What if even a few of these "what ifs" became realities in people's lives, enabling them go out and make a bigger kingdom difference?
What if …………………………………. You fill in the blank, as with God, All things are possible. The What if’s stated can be realities because of the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives in us.… May the "now" questions become future solutions to the glory of our God.
Allow Him to Refine, Define, and Align in 2009
Please remember that these are only what ifs, purposed to shake up paradigms, while firming up Kingdom foundations. Many "What Ifs” are happening all around us, but what if they were not just the exception? What if they became realities? My prayers are to continually stimulate possibility thoughts towards ways that bring forth His Kingdom through our lives.
Here are my What Ifs as we move into 2009:
What if we prayed for our leaders rather than complain about who we have or didn’t have in office?
What if we realize that God is on the throne and will have His way regardless of who is in office and that we are called to pray His will and purposes for the nation?
What if we gave to Caesar (government) what is Caesar’s, and gave to God what is His, which is our very lives?
Jesus was consumed with His Father’s Kingdom being brought to the earth, what if we focused on that rather than our political processes and gave that burden to Him?
What if we were using what we do have, and quit wasting time worrying about what we don’t have?
What if we did not fear any longer, no fear of life or death, because we are in His hands?
What if we heard the words “Stop it, just stop it” and began to truly stop the negative thought patterns? Stop it, just Stop it, thinking that way, in Jesus name!
What if we could really understand and activate true repentance in every area of our lives, instead of just feeling sorry for our patterns of sin?
What if we could forgive every wrong ever committed against us in the past and swiftly in the days ahead?
What if we allowed His presence to eradicate bitterness from the depths of our souls?
What if we realized and applied His freedom from every deliberate and unintentional wounds of our childhood?
What if we were never a victim again, because the revelation of Christ and His grace sufficed daily for us?
What if we could forgive ourselves and move on past the shame simply because Jesus has forgiven us?
What if we accepted and believed with all of our heart, soul, and mind that Jesus loves us, accepts us, and is for us every moment of every day? And just the way we are!
What if we accepted the fact that HE ACCEPTS US AS WE ARE to the point that it overwhelms the fact that we do not accept ourselves?
What if we could live the way of the cross, persecution, and dying to self, because it is the narrow way He asked us to follow?
What if we died to self more so that Christ lived through us more, and every single need met as our joy was made complete in Him?
What if we could just rest in who we are in Christ, rather than running around doing activities He never called us to do? Being rather than doing!
What if we really believed God loved us and it had nothing to do with our past, or our future performances? Resting in Him!
What if pastors and leadership teams around the world would train and release every member of their church into the ministry that the Lord has called them to, and especially beyond the four walls of organized church?
What if we actually picked up our mats and walked in obedience when we were delivered, rather than come back for prayer and healing for the same things week after week?
What if leaders would seek to always serve beyond ever having to be being served?
What if leaders would seek to train and lead others in the vision God has for them as individual ministers and trust the Holy Spirit to move on them to support the community or corporate vision.
What if leaders did not respond to fear of rejection and failure but trust the Lord for any perceived numbers they expect to see. Or, not look at numbers at all!
What if city wide transformation begins to take place because each individual realized their purpose and calling and was released to fulfill it beyond the four walls?
What if every church pastor sought relationship with the other pastors of the community to fulfill a city wide vision beyond their own ministries? That they realized their vision for the city could not be realized without partnering with others.
What if we realized the Lord owned everything we have and asked us to steward everything, and that we would ask Him how much to give and to where, always willing to give 100% if He were to ask that of us?
What if all the children of God understood and operated in the full authority that Jesus Christ sacrificed for us to have?
What if Kingdomized people began to bring the Kingdom authority to all the gates of the city. That Kingdom people would lead the way in government, business, healthcare, media, law, and educational jurisdictions of our cities?
What if every believer never settled for how they view themselves while seeking the Father to know the full potential of what He sees in them?
What if we would accept others and the blessing they are, rather than be offended by them in their differences?
What if we chose to see the good in people, pray for the rest, and love them regardless if they changed as we think they should?
What if more souls for the kingdom and the releasing of every saint into ministry far outweighed any focus on mammon or control?
What if we all were willing to serve in every phase of our lives rather than being served?
What would happen if every believer realized the lifetime process we are in and could walk without judgment, beside those not as far along in the process?
What if what we thought was reality was revealed as not, so as to get us to living a life that is filled with reality and purpose for the kingdom?
What if we choose to not be offended when offenses came, or at least choose to let go of all offenses immediately?
What if we chose to forgive in every situation and not only because the Father said He would not forgive us unless we did, but because it was in our hearts to love in that way?
What if we really were blinded to culture, creed and credentials as the family of God?
And what if we were excited about the uniqueness of each difference, and the value of each expression of God's people?
What if spiritual Fathers would be motivated with a heart of giving to their spiritual sons that far outweighed any thoughts of what they would receive in return?
What if we had abundantly more Shepherds, (pastors), willing to run after the few of the flock that have been hurt, isolated and in need of life giving expressions of our Saviors love?
What would happen if God's people really prayed and communicated intimately with the Father on a daily basis?
What if we had every Christian home open and available for the faith community every week? And how about daily?
What if every believer was more concerned about being Father's change agents for people, families and communities, rather than holding on, and waiting for Jesus to mystically remove them from the very earth He desires them to change.
What if the perceived rapture were a long ways off, or to not to come at all, would we still be about our Father's business in establishing His kingdom upon the earth?
What if we really did not fear dying for Him and in fact chose to die to self daily in order to truly live in and through Him?
What if we lived and moved and had our being in the Holy Spirit 24 hours a day and 7 days a week?
What if every word or deed was received with the Father's heart and mind and every response that came forth from us in word and deed was likewise from the heart of the Father?
What if we would rather have a towel (servant), than a title in leadership?
What if we realized that we must seek to trash every idol in our life to really be free to serve in the army of our Lord?
What if we realized that the greatest idol that you and I have is "self", then began to become selfless in our pursuit of Christ and His Kingdom?
What if every believer realized that their obedience to all that they do each day was ministry unto Him and His kingdom?
What if every housewife and mother understood that she was in full time ministry in her role?
What if the people of God saw the ministry the Lord is doing through His daughters, while becoming free from limited mindsets regarding the Father’s potential and ministry in women.
What if we saw that the Kingdom of God as beyond race, gender, or age, but diversity of expression in His glorious Kingdom.
What if every businessman or blue collar worker realized that in Christ, they were full time ministers in their calling?
What if every business owner understood that people are their greatest resource and began to pastor their businesses?
What if every business owner looked at their employees, vendors, and customers, as part of their household or sphere of godly influence?
What if every Christian business owner looked as their lives and businesses as an impact for the community?
What if there was no difference in the perceived spirituality of a organized church pastor and one who pastors their home, business, and community.
What if we actually believe God speaks in relevance for today beyond the written word in alignment of the written word?
What if we actually could actually hear a relevant word for today that was in line with the heart and written word of God?
What if there was greater prophetic accountability?
What if there were more prophetic people apologizing when they spoke amiss, as often as they publicly acknowledged when they got one right?
What if we worshipped the foundation of all order, (Christ), beyond the order or perceived order of things?
What if the living Word, (Christ Himself) replaced any dead theoretical, theological, Christological religion?
What if we had fellowship or connections with others during the week instead of relying on one Sunday Service, which was never designed to meet our ”one anothering” needs.
What if the earth really was filled with the glory of the Lord and He is just waiting for us to get involved?
What if true wealth is measured in what you give away?
What if the family became the primary context of the Church?
What if we loved as He loved?
What if we spoke as He spoke?
What if we did what He did?
What if we really believed we could lay hands on the sick and watch them recover?
What if my opinions were okay, because they were my opinions and people would love me even if my opinions were different from theirs?
What if we all could appreciate the different cultures and expressions in God’s Kingdom, regardless if we understood them, or fancied them.
What if people understood the commanded to love, and would love by choice rather than out of having to feel "the love"?
What if even a few of these "what ifs" became realities in people's lives, enabling them go out and make a bigger kingdom difference?
What if …………………………………. You fill in the blank, as with God, All things are possible. The What if’s stated can be realities because of the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives in us.… May the "now" questions become future solutions to the glory of our God.
Allow Him to Refine, Define, and Align in 2009
Saturday, December 20, 2008
You Do Not Labor in Vain by Robert Ricciardelli
1 Corinthians 15:58
With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don't hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.
Have you been noticing lately how we as Christians can get caught up on the peripherals of our faith? We get so absorbed in non essentials that we miss essential foundations like love, forgiveness, and even how practically the Holy Spirit desires to be in everyday life with us and through us. We can all miss the basics sometimes. You have heard the term, “Being so heavenly minded, but doing no earthly good”. We have been taught mostly through religion, that we are saved for the afterlife, when in fact, Jesus made the way to save us now, and for NOW. We are saved completely and wholly now by Him to engage in His life, and labor for His Kingdom.
Throughout Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, the message is very clear. “This present bodily life is not valueless because it will die. God will raise it to new life one day, it is of great value to Him and the world around us. What you do in your body today matters, because God has a great future in store for you. I would say that probably ninety percent of His church is coasting and trying to just get by this earthly realm in waiting for the life beyond. It probably is one of the biggest deceptions that have impacted the church. Being saved is for the now and not just for the later! When the Body of Christ is immersed in His life everyday and in His ministry in every sphere of society, nothing will hold back the multiplication of transformed lives and societies to the glory of God.
What you do in the present --- by painting, preaching, singing, sewing, praying, teaching, building hospitals, digging wells, advocating justice, writing poems, caring for the needy, loving your neighbor as yourself, will last into God’s future. They are not just good things to pass through this life with, but they are all part of building God’s eternal Kingdom. We are now at a time when the church needs to rise up and know their identity and mission. It is time that each member knows that everything they are and do is ministry, and has eternal impact. Evangelism that has been focused for what will come after this life, must now be focused on what we have been born into RIGHT NOW!
We have slowly been enslaved into the idea of bliss, enlightenment, and streets of gold when we leave this earth, versus the truth of working presently for His Eternal Kingdom. Many have been paralyzed with thoughts of the end times and the afterlife, leaving little room for TODAY life. Father has always desired for us to begin living in His eternal promises now, and bringing His Kingdom of heaven to the earth. His Kingdom come and His will be done, now and into eternity. He saved us out of our past lives and into His glorious Kingdom now, as well as into the next life. We must realize that we can engage in His life, His power, His eternal presence, the moment we accept Christ, His Lordship, and His precious Holy Spirit into our lives.
It is time we rethink the very meaning of salvation itself। When you mention salvation, most people will immediately think that you mean, “going to heaven when you die”. Let’s presuppose that the bible teaches us that God’s creation is good, including the world, life as we know it, our bodies, brains, cells, etc. The bible does teach this by the way, while at the same time God reconfirms this with us in the promise of our bodily resurrection at His appointed time. If this true, then limiting God’s salvation for a later time actually is a far departure from foundational Christian Jewish beliefs.
Have you been noticing lately how we as Christians can get caught up on the peripherals of our faith? We get so absorbed in non essentials that we miss essential foundations like love, forgiveness, and even how practically the Holy Spirit desires to be in everyday life with us and through us. We can all miss the basics sometimes. You have heard the term, “Being so heavenly minded, but doing no earthly good”. We have been taught mostly through religion, that we are saved for the afterlife, when in fact, Jesus made the way to save us now, and for NOW. We are saved completely and wholly now by Him to engage in His life, and labor for His Kingdom.
Throughout Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, the message is very clear. “This present bodily life is not valueless because it will die. God will raise it to new life one day, it is of great value to Him and the world around us. What you do in your body today matters, because God has a great future in store for you. I would say that probably ninety percent of His church is coasting and trying to just get by this earthly realm in waiting for the life beyond. It probably is one of the biggest deceptions that have impacted the church. Being saved is for the now and not just for the later! When the Body of Christ is immersed in His life everyday and in His ministry in every sphere of society, nothing will hold back the multiplication of transformed lives and societies to the glory of God.
What you do in the present --- by painting, preaching, singing, sewing, praying, teaching, building hospitals, digging wells, advocating justice, writing poems, caring for the needy, loving your neighbor as yourself, will last into God’s future. They are not just good things to pass through this life with, but they are all part of building God’s eternal Kingdom. We are now at a time when the church needs to rise up and know their identity and mission. It is time that each member knows that everything they are and do is ministry, and has eternal impact. Evangelism that has been focused for what will come after this life, must now be focused on what we have been born into RIGHT NOW!
We have slowly been enslaved into the idea of bliss, enlightenment, and streets of gold when we leave this earth, versus the truth of working presently for His Eternal Kingdom. Many have been paralyzed with thoughts of the end times and the afterlife, leaving little room for TODAY life. Father has always desired for us to begin living in His eternal promises now, and bringing His Kingdom of heaven to the earth. His Kingdom come and His will be done, now and into eternity. He saved us out of our past lives and into His glorious Kingdom now, as well as into the next life. We must realize that we can engage in His life, His power, His eternal presence, the moment we accept Christ, His Lordship, and His precious Holy Spirit into our lives.
It is time we rethink the very meaning of salvation itself। When you mention salvation, most people will immediately think that you mean, “going to heaven when you die”. Let’s presuppose that the bible teaches us that God’s creation is good, including the world, life as we know it, our bodies, brains, cells, etc. The bible does teach this by the way, while at the same time God reconfirms this with us in the promise of our bodily resurrection at His appointed time. If this true, then limiting God’s salvation for a later time actually is a far departure from foundational Christian Jewish beliefs.
Christian Aid has a slogan, “We believe in life before death”, now that is a great slogan. Life before death is what is threatened, and called into question, by the idea that salvation is merely life after death. If we live like we are waiting for a timeless, bodiless eternity, why would we put any effort in putting things right in this present world? But if what matters is God’s people as new creations with life before death, then we must see salvation as not “going to heaven” but “being raised to life now” and continuing in life after death in the new heaven and new earth… So remember, Jesus did not just save our soul, but our whole.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Pause, Reflect, What Are We Doing? by Robert Ricciardelli
We are all living in a fast paced, hard driven, make it happen world. I know this world well, and have operated in it for most my life by the worlds standards and measures. By the grace of God, the Lord took us out of the Matrix several years ago. Through continued trials and tests, Father has forged in us a resolve, and a faith in Him, that otherwise had been and would have continued to be minimized. As we travel, we see common patterns that limit our effectiveness and ability to be Kingdom ambassadors to the world. If we do not pause, reflect, and hear correctly, we will often look back and say, wow, so much time has passed and very little of what we had intended to do, ever got in motion.
PAUSE… Be Still and know I am God
“Pause”, “Be Still”, can that really happen in our lives on a regular basis? We all know it should, and should know that it is vital if we want to be “Father Pleasers”, and hear from Him on what He has to say, and how He sees things going. This does not have to be in the form of a ritual, but just time with Him. He will take every moment you give to Him and make something good out of it. As we pause long enough to hear His voice, we can now then move on and reflect based on His divine plans.
REFLECT… Navigational fine tuning
His ways are not our ways should always be part of our reflection. As we look into the spiritual mirror of our existence, how much of our lives are spent reacting to the world and its systems. How much worry or focus is given to these very same systems? Even Jesus reminded us to give to Caesar and His systems, what is his, and to give to God what was due Him, which are our very lives. Jesus was not concerned with politics, He operated beyond the worldly systems, while still within them. He was in them but not OF them. We must begin, or continue our conversations with the Father to hear His plan, engage with it, and seek His voice for the next steps. Then we can seriously begin to objectively ask the real question, what are we doing?
WHAT ARE WE DOING?... Good question, but do we have the answer?
God never intended for religion. He intended to have a people; called by His name to steward, be productive, and carry His presence to those around us and to the nations. Does sitting in a church service each week hearing a good message and worshipping together give us all of what we need? Are we living our experience of being the church through two hours on Sunday and maybe a home cell on Thursday? Are we active in our thoughts and communications with the Father in everyday life? Are we being transformed by His presence? Is the transformation manifesting selectively depending on the people we engage with or the environment we are in?
I love corporate worship and the time you can have when you come together, whether it is Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday, but what are we doing in between those corporate gatherings? It is great to have a corporate vision, but do we have an identifiable vision and revelation from God for ourselves. Are we living our lives thinking we are okay because we sit and listen to great preaching and have a wonderful church expression each week, or are we allowing the Holy Spirit to mobilize us every single day into His purposes and plans?
His Kingdom wants to encompass everything. The King and His righteousness desires to influence everything we are and everything we do. We must pause, reflect, and examine all that we are and all that we do. How is our heart towards those who have rejected us? Do we forgive, do we love, or do we just move on?
How do we treat co-workers that are different than us in their beliefs and lifestyles? Are we praying for them, loving them, or do we sit back in judgment of them?
Those who run businesses, have you examined how you are treating employees, customers, vendors in light of His love and His Word? Are we living in the revelation that the Father is your Senior Partner in business and in life, and have you been making important decisions without Him? Are you living in the reality that people are God’s greatest asset, Always?
These are the types of questions we ask in our coaching and consulting of others. Here a few beginning steps..
Some Steps towards Kingdom reality
PAUSE… Be Still and know I am God
“Pause”, “Be Still”, can that really happen in our lives on a regular basis? We all know it should, and should know that it is vital if we want to be “Father Pleasers”, and hear from Him on what He has to say, and how He sees things going. This does not have to be in the form of a ritual, but just time with Him. He will take every moment you give to Him and make something good out of it. As we pause long enough to hear His voice, we can now then move on and reflect based on His divine plans.
REFLECT… Navigational fine tuning
His ways are not our ways should always be part of our reflection. As we look into the spiritual mirror of our existence, how much of our lives are spent reacting to the world and its systems. How much worry or focus is given to these very same systems? Even Jesus reminded us to give to Caesar and His systems, what is his, and to give to God what was due Him, which are our very lives. Jesus was not concerned with politics, He operated beyond the worldly systems, while still within them. He was in them but not OF them. We must begin, or continue our conversations with the Father to hear His plan, engage with it, and seek His voice for the next steps. Then we can seriously begin to objectively ask the real question, what are we doing?
WHAT ARE WE DOING?... Good question, but do we have the answer?
God never intended for religion. He intended to have a people; called by His name to steward, be productive, and carry His presence to those around us and to the nations. Does sitting in a church service each week hearing a good message and worshipping together give us all of what we need? Are we living our experience of being the church through two hours on Sunday and maybe a home cell on Thursday? Are we active in our thoughts and communications with the Father in everyday life? Are we being transformed by His presence? Is the transformation manifesting selectively depending on the people we engage with or the environment we are in?
I love corporate worship and the time you can have when you come together, whether it is Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday, but what are we doing in between those corporate gatherings? It is great to have a corporate vision, but do we have an identifiable vision and revelation from God for ourselves. Are we living our lives thinking we are okay because we sit and listen to great preaching and have a wonderful church expression each week, or are we allowing the Holy Spirit to mobilize us every single day into His purposes and plans?
His Kingdom wants to encompass everything. The King and His righteousness desires to influence everything we are and everything we do. We must pause, reflect, and examine all that we are and all that we do. How is our heart towards those who have rejected us? Do we forgive, do we love, or do we just move on?
How do we treat co-workers that are different than us in their beliefs and lifestyles? Are we praying for them, loving them, or do we sit back in judgment of them?
Those who run businesses, have you examined how you are treating employees, customers, vendors in light of His love and His Word? Are we living in the revelation that the Father is your Senior Partner in business and in life, and have you been making important decisions without Him? Are you living in the reality that people are God’s greatest asset, Always?
These are the types of questions we ask in our coaching and consulting of others. Here a few beginning steps..
Some Steps towards Kingdom reality
- We must all continue to migrate towards relationship with Him first, which is the only hope of real and lasting transformational change.
- We must examine our hearts and ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate and reflect back to us the things that we may not be aware of. Once revealed, our love for Him should motivate us to take the steps He shows us to get healed, get whole, and forgive or release others to Him.
- We must look at our daily activities and check and see if the actions please the Father or grieve the Father. We should decide today to be “Father Pleasers”. We also must recognize that religious activities do not cut it in pleasing the Father in everyday life. How we treat our spouses, how we love our children, how we give without having to receive, how we become absorbed with Him and others, rather than self.
- Talk to Him continuously. Jesus only did and said what the Father gave Him to do and say. Jesus is always our model. Sometimes Jesus would turn away the crowd, the noise, the ministry stuff, to get away with the Father. So must we. He loves to hear from you and He is big enough to listen to the gripes and complaints. He is also big enough to show you that the gripes and complaints are insignificant in light of His eternal plans for you.
- Just love. God is love. Everything about Him oozes love. Love does not mean we ignore justice. His perfect Love always includes truth and justice. But how our hearts move towards truth and justice often reveals where we are in His love. Love seems to gravitate towards healing and restoration, rather than judgment. You will find that your life does not matter and will pursue loving those who have hated and rejected you. You will pray for your enemies and you will begin relationships with those who are different than you.
- Walk humbly before your God and others. When I write, I am writing these things to myself. I thank God for my development, but boy I have a long way to go, just ask my wife. The more I know, the more I don’t know and the more it keeps me pressed into Him. If you think you are nearing completion, think again. You’ve come a long way baby, but He has eternity waiting and changes are going to happen. I have found it much easier to be a willing partner with the Lord. He loves us enough to make our path straight, but it is so much better to get on the right path first, rather than being extracted from the ways we thought were the right ones…
Monday, December 8, 2008
Zimbabwe Freedom is Near by Robert & Joyce Ricciardelli
This is some of what the Lord gave Joyce and I on behalf of Zimbabwe in prayer today. The context came from 2nd Chronicles 20. After spending time in Zimbabwe the past few weeks, revelation continues to unfold. This is what we sense the Lord is saying:
Zimbabwe - A destructive force has enslaved you, and decimated the land and its people . This is not a time to lay down, a time to quit, nor a time to despair. There's no time to waste—destruction is at hand from all sides.
Shaken, the Zimbabwean faithful have continued to pray to the One and only hope. Many nations united in seeking God's help—they are united from all over, praying to God.
"O God, God of our ancestors, are you not God in heaven above and ruler of all kingdoms below? You hold all power and might in your fist—no one stands a chance against you! And didn't you cause some of the natives of this land to leave, while many remained? They have lived here and abroad as Holy Temples of honour and worship for you, saying, 'When the worst happens—whether war or flood or disease or famine—we can take our place before You Lord. We know you are personally present in this place and in our hearts each day. We pray out our pain and trouble, we know that you will listen and give victory.'
"And now it's happening, as many are called back to the land and foreigners are coming to help rebuild the walls as the Lord prepares the way for that day! The enemy had come to kick us out of the country you gave us. O dear God, won't you take care of them that remain, and us that will go? We have been helpless before this vandal horde ready to attack us. We relied on men and mans devises and found it empty and fruitless. We don't know what to do; we're looking to you, our hope, and our only salvation."
The prophets of God are declaring by the Spirit of God from the midst of the congregation. "Attention everyone—all of you from out of town, all you who remain, and those of you who will lead, Listen to the Word of the Lord: Don't be afraid; don't pay any mind to this vandal horde. This is God's war, not yours. You won't have to lift a hand in this battle; just stand firm, stand in Him, my fellow Zimbabweans, and watch God's saving work for you take shape. Don't be afraid, don't waver. March out boldly Just Now—God is with you."
Then the leaders both near and far, along with all of the people knelt down, bowing with their face to the ground, worshiping God. Then they arose knowing the victory is near, they stood to their feet to praise God, the God of Israel; they praised at the top of their lungs!
The prophetic cry arises.. "Listen Zimbabwe, Listen to what I have to say! Believe firmly in God, your God, and your lives will be firm! Believe in the prophetic and relevant words of the prophets and you'll come out on top!" Give thanks to God, His love never quits.
As soon they continued shouting and praising, God set ambushes against the enemies of God in Zimbabwe and they all ended up dead, or vanished in fear. God set up confusion and in-fighting among them, and the destruction began from within. Confusion and implosion of their evil ways shall over take them says the Lord. In their confusion, they will go at each other, and the end of their ways will be swift and sure.
As the Zimbabwe faithful come up over the rise, looking for their attackers, they will see them no more—not a forceful enemy in sight.
When the leaders and the people sort out through the victory of the Lord, they begin to see justice and goodness overtake them. Lands restored to the proper stewards, crops grow, and the disease and famine begin to melt away from the presence and goodness of their God. They came together and blessed God as it became a blessed land once more as God set things to His order.
God had given them joyful relief from their enemies! They entered the city gates worshipping God. They paraded around the city along with all the instruments of the band playing. What God we have. We could do nothing, and yet He did all things and it is wondrous in our sight.
"'For here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to take you out of these countries, gather you from all over, and bring you back to your own land. I'll pour pure water over you and scrub you clean. I'll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I'll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that's God-willed, not self-willed. I'll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. You'll once again live in the land I gave your ancestors. You'll be my people, and I'll be your God!
The towns will be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt. I will increase the number of men and animals upon you, and they will be fruitful and become numerous. I will settle people on you as in the past and will make you prosper more than before. Then you will know that I am the LORD.
When surrounding kingdoms and the whole world got word that God had fought Zimbabwe's enemies, the fear of God descended on them. As long as God's people reigned, peace reigned, and the enemies of God would not touch His people nor move against His presence on the land. When the righteous rule the people rejoice, and the enemies are scattered by the hand of the Almighty.
Zimbabwe - A destructive force has enslaved you, and decimated the land and its people . This is not a time to lay down, a time to quit, nor a time to despair. There's no time to waste—destruction is at hand from all sides.
Shaken, the Zimbabwean faithful have continued to pray to the One and only hope. Many nations united in seeking God's help—they are united from all over, praying to God.
"O God, God of our ancestors, are you not God in heaven above and ruler of all kingdoms below? You hold all power and might in your fist—no one stands a chance against you! And didn't you cause some of the natives of this land to leave, while many remained? They have lived here and abroad as Holy Temples of honour and worship for you, saying, 'When the worst happens—whether war or flood or disease or famine—we can take our place before You Lord. We know you are personally present in this place and in our hearts each day. We pray out our pain and trouble, we know that you will listen and give victory.'
"And now it's happening, as many are called back to the land and foreigners are coming to help rebuild the walls as the Lord prepares the way for that day! The enemy had come to kick us out of the country you gave us. O dear God, won't you take care of them that remain, and us that will go? We have been helpless before this vandal horde ready to attack us. We relied on men and mans devises and found it empty and fruitless. We don't know what to do; we're looking to you, our hope, and our only salvation."
The prophets of God are declaring by the Spirit of God from the midst of the congregation. "Attention everyone—all of you from out of town, all you who remain, and those of you who will lead, Listen to the Word of the Lord: Don't be afraid; don't pay any mind to this vandal horde. This is God's war, not yours. You won't have to lift a hand in this battle; just stand firm, stand in Him, my fellow Zimbabweans, and watch God's saving work for you take shape. Don't be afraid, don't waver. March out boldly Just Now—God is with you."
Then the leaders both near and far, along with all of the people knelt down, bowing with their face to the ground, worshiping God. Then they arose knowing the victory is near, they stood to their feet to praise God, the God of Israel; they praised at the top of their lungs!
The prophetic cry arises.. "Listen Zimbabwe, Listen to what I have to say! Believe firmly in God, your God, and your lives will be firm! Believe in the prophetic and relevant words of the prophets and you'll come out on top!" Give thanks to God, His love never quits.
As soon they continued shouting and praising, God set ambushes against the enemies of God in Zimbabwe and they all ended up dead, or vanished in fear. God set up confusion and in-fighting among them, and the destruction began from within. Confusion and implosion of their evil ways shall over take them says the Lord. In their confusion, they will go at each other, and the end of their ways will be swift and sure.
As the Zimbabwe faithful come up over the rise, looking for their attackers, they will see them no more—not a forceful enemy in sight.
When the leaders and the people sort out through the victory of the Lord, they begin to see justice and goodness overtake them. Lands restored to the proper stewards, crops grow, and the disease and famine begin to melt away from the presence and goodness of their God. They came together and blessed God as it became a blessed land once more as God set things to His order.
God had given them joyful relief from their enemies! They entered the city gates worshipping God. They paraded around the city along with all the instruments of the band playing. What God we have. We could do nothing, and yet He did all things and it is wondrous in our sight.
"'For here's what I'm going to do: I'm going to take you out of these countries, gather you from all over, and bring you back to your own land. I'll pour pure water over you and scrub you clean. I'll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I'll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that's God-willed, not self-willed. I'll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. You'll once again live in the land I gave your ancestors. You'll be my people, and I'll be your God!
The towns will be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt. I will increase the number of men and animals upon you, and they will be fruitful and become numerous. I will settle people on you as in the past and will make you prosper more than before. Then you will know that I am the LORD.
When surrounding kingdoms and the whole world got word that God had fought Zimbabwe's enemies, the fear of God descended on them. As long as God's people reigned, peace reigned, and the enemies of God would not touch His people nor move against His presence on the land. When the righteous rule the people rejoice, and the enemies are scattered by the hand of the Almighty.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Pray For Government Leaders, Trust Only God for All Things.
Joyce and I have been grieved by the response of God's people regarding the current President elect, Barack Obama. We have heard everything from Barack being judgment for America, to Barack being the anti-Christ. In a time when we should be praying and speaking life into the people God sovereignly has placed to help govern the nation.
A great barrier was broken when Barack was elected that has brought healing and hope to many, not only in the USA, but in fact to many nations. We should be rejoicing with them in what it means for them, and for all of us together as a nation. We know that it is not about an individual or even system, as God can work His ways through all of it. Mr. Obama is coming in to his first term at a time in history that gives him a challenge no president has faced, especially in the past 50 years.
We also must remember that Jesus was never concerned with politics and even said, give to Caesar what is Caesars and to God, what is God's. God wants us to cry out to Him, look to Him, and not to man, or mans devices. But we do have a responsibility to pray for those in authority.
We also must remember how the Lord has used many through the centuries that may seem in appearance, impossible.
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin, and I will heal their land.
Our thoughts and words carry power. We can bring forth blessing and cursing, life or death by how we are driven and what we choose. May we choose life. People of God, May His Kingdom come, and His will be done on earth through our thoughts, through our words, through our prayers, and through our actions motivated by faith and His abundant love, in Jesus name, Amen
A great barrier was broken when Barack was elected that has brought healing and hope to many, not only in the USA, but in fact to many nations. We should be rejoicing with them in what it means for them, and for all of us together as a nation. We know that it is not about an individual or even system, as God can work His ways through all of it. Mr. Obama is coming in to his first term at a time in history that gives him a challenge no president has faced, especially in the past 50 years.
We also must remember that Jesus was never concerned with politics and even said, give to Caesar what is Caesars and to God, what is God's. God wants us to cry out to Him, look to Him, and not to man, or mans devices. But we do have a responsibility to pray for those in authority.
We also must remember how the Lord has used many through the centuries that may seem in appearance, impossible.
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin, and I will heal their land.
Our thoughts and words carry power. We can bring forth blessing and cursing, life or death by how we are driven and what we choose. May we choose life. People of God, May His Kingdom come, and His will be done on earth through our thoughts, through our words, through our prayers, and through our actions motivated by faith and His abundant love, in Jesus name, Amen
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