SHE WAS POSSESSED

Greetings -

This is fiction with some true realities:

Misty traveled down the dusty road from the tombs.  She was dry and thirsty as she dragged her chains behind her.  Misty was possessed.  Yes, she WAS possessed by evil.  Horrific thoughts engulfed her, and  robbed her of rest.  She sought here and there until one joyous day she found the CENTER.  It is from that place that Misty began her journey to abide securely in CHRIST.  She pressed toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of GOD in CHRIST JESUS.  Now she gleefully shouts -

I AM POSSESSED

I am possessed by the best - our Lord CHRIST, who consumes me.

North, south, east and west - everywhere I go JESUS surrounds me.

I am the beneficiary of a fail-proof plan produced by the MASTER MAN.  He is my super hero - no tights for Him.  His garment is a robe - a robe of righteousness, and Oh! He wears it so well.

I don't need a fall-out shelter.  Where I fall is into His everlasting arms, and JESUS holds me in His warm secure embrace.  He loves me and I love Him.  There is freedom in His presence when we are surrendered to Him.  Such freedom is not available in any other space.    

The gospel ain't no gamble, people.  It is a sure thing.  

Words to Satan:

You can possess me no more because now I am forever possessed by the best.

Scriptures from the King James Bible:

Philippians 3:14

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Proverbs 8:22

The Lord possessed me...

Prayer:

Lord, though this is written in the form of a story, it is truth that there are many people who are indeed possessed by evil.  Please, loving Father, rescue them from all that holds them captive.  Possess them with Your righteousness.   Deliver them, Lord, from the lies that they believe and prove to them that You love them just as they are.  Go and get Your people from dark places and bring them into the fullness of Your glorious light.

There is nothing too hard for you, Lord.

I believe that You will free more people in loving powerful ways.  Please, Lord, use us Your people as vessels to plant and to water so that You can graciously give increases that will set captives free. 

Thank you, Lord - Amen

Sandra

Written Sunday January 30, 2011

Copyright 2011

Note: Please read the post directly below this one titled, "KIDNAPPED."

Thank you for your indulgence.

KIDNAPPED

Greetings -

This is fiction with some true realities:

Patrick was kidnapped by a ghastly being, Otis, who deceived and abused him.  Otis is a devil who was assigned to torment Patrick.  He fed Patrick and gave him shelter but the food was meager, and lacked nutritional value.  Patrick's shelter was a shed that had leaks in the roof.  He got no sunshine as he wasted away in the shoddy shed.

Poor Patrick existed in darkness on scraps.  Otis enjoyed the hold that he had on the man he had "caged."  Then, after many years of captivity, Patrick developed Stockholm syndrome which added to the delight of Otis, the mean cruel ghastly being.

Otis celebrated his triumph over the soul of Patrick.

UNTIL - SONSHINE appeared...

In walked a holy interruption that put a stop to the Otis party.  JESUS appeared to Patrick with a basket of fruit, and bread and fish for a divine healthy feast.  Patrick ate heartily with the MASTER KING.

Our Lord loved on Patrick, and explained to him the gospel of the kingdom of GOD, and what it represents.  JESUS convinced Patrick that Otis and Stockholm syndrome were now part of his past.

The holy revelations from JESUS caused Patrick to gain strength in his inner man.

JESUS de-programmed Patrick, and freed his heart, mind, and soul. 

Patrick became a new creature who was done with Otis, the shed, and the scrappy meal service.

Out he walked with JESUS - past a broken Otis whose celebration was brought to a halt - by SONSHINE!

Scriptures from the King James Bible:

Matthew 20:28
Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

1 Timothy 2:6
Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Revelation 11:12
And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither, And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.

Prayer:

Holy Father, in the name of JESUS, please deliver people from "kidnapped" positions and free them from Stockholm syndrome.  Inform more people that they belong to You, Lord.  Teach them how to cleave to You and Your infallible truths.  Change their hearts to embrace what is love, peace and joy in abundance.

Prove to people who are deceived that You are pure truth and that You love them hugely.  You are a forgiving GOD and we all need Your forgiveness, love and mercy.  Convince more people that they are valuable and precious to You.  Urge more to come to You just as they are because You can forgive all sins because that is Your divine sovereign specialty.  Work Your expertise, please Father, on the many weary souls who have lived lives of despair and shame long enough.

Our Lord says, "Come to JESUS - He is waiting on you!"   

Sandra

Written Sunday January 30, 2011

Copyright 2011

PRAYER FOR SATURDAY JANUARY 29, 2011

Greetings -

Holy Father, in the righteous name of JESUS, I come before You in repentance for any ways in which I do not meet Your expectations.  Please forgive me, Lord, for any confidence that I have in the flesh.  My heart cries out to You, Almighty Father, for only You can save me through Your beloved Son, JESUS.  You alone are GOD.

JESUS, Thou art the Christ, and the Son of the living GOD.  Wash me anew with Your blood and cleanse me, please, from all unrighteousness.

Glorious Father, I come to You with the words from Your servant, Daniel:

Daniel 9:3-6 – KJV

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, …

And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that keep his commandments.

We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments:

Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.

And you tell us in Proverbs 28:13 - KJV, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”

We, your sheep, owe our total lives to You, dear Shepherd.  Your Word says in Luke 12:32 - KJV, "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom."  Let us cherish You, the KING of Your kingdom, and let us keep kingdom-driven hearts that beat fervently as we champion Your awesome causes!

Thank You, Lord, for Your kingdom everlasting, and for Your eternal glory.  Lead us, please Father, into dimensions that result in holy changes in ways that bring You joy, pleasure and delight.  Thank You for Your abundance of peace and for dealing bountifully with us.  Let our lights be burning so that You can shine through our humble willing hearts.

Thank you, Lord – Amen

Philippians 3:3

The Acts 4:12

2 Kings 19:15

Matthew 16:16

2 Timothy 2:10

Psalm 72:7

Psalm 13:6

Luke 12:35

Sandra

Written Thursday January 13, 2011.

Note: Please read the post immediately below this one titled, "GAMES OF LIFE." 

Thank you for your indulgence.

GAMES OF LIFE

Greetings –

(Note: Some readers here are old enough to remember ALL of the game shows and programs mentioned here.)

THE GAMES OF LIFE:

This Is Your Life, and the Password is “saved” so Let’s Make a Deal to worship only God.  The Price Is Right – the shed blood of JESUS for us on Calvary.  Forsake the Family Feud(s) for- to feud – To Tell the Truth – is sure Jeopardy.  God holds in His hands the Candid Camera, and He calls us to Truth or Consequences.  This is no Hollywood Squares but a Wheel of Fortune where the prize is the high calling of GOD in Christ JESUS.

Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?  I don’t know about that but I sure strive to be rich in GOD.

Some say, “It’s Academic.”

Say on –

Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?

What I know for sure is that GOD is way way smarter than us all!

Sandra

Written Thursday December 30, 2010

FINE DINING WITH JESUS

Greetings -

Scriptures from the King James Bible

Recently I heard a pastor speak about our Lord not being fast food and that some people treat our Lord as a drive through "meal."

This post expands on that message.

Who desires to engage in fine dining with our Lord with exquisite linen accompanied by candles and the soothing sounds of worship music?  What about to indulge in delicious appetizers seasoned with the right amount of organic herbs? 

Our Lord delights in communion with us as we thirstily drink from His rivers of living water.  At the table, we fellowship as we wait for the main course.  Our Lord regales us with great stories and testimonies.  We laugh with Him.  We weep with Him for the glory that He so awesomely provides. 

The main course arrives.  Our Lord, the Bread of Life, blesses our meal.  We slice into the meat that is of prime tenderness with succulent juices that surface.  

John 4:34
Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

Psalm 34:8
O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

We enjoy every word that proceeds from the mouth of our Lord.

Deuteronomy 8:3
And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live.

There is much joy at the table as we sup with the KING.  All are on one accord with the MASTER MAN.  We get our fill.

Matthew 5:6
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

As we prepare to go forth into all the world, and preach the gospel, we clasp hands as our Lord prays to the Father for His will to be done.  

Jesus summons the waitress and blesses her with a bountiful monetary tip - but the best tips that he gives her are His love assurances with this scripture from Romans 10:9, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."     

The waitress is visibly affected.  It is impossible to be in the pure presence of JESUS and not be affected.  Tears well in her eyes as she thanks the Lord and says, "I believe." 

JESUS replies, "I know you do.  He motions to us his dinner "dates."  He tells the waitress, "My children here will help you further."  JESUS then smiles, waves and walks out the shut door.

John 20:26
...then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.

FAST FOOD

Fast food certainly has its place.  It can be good in a pinch or when the funds aren't in thrive motion.  There are seasons when we need to go the quickie route.  Then there are the moments in life when we may only have time to say the name "JESUS."  Once I was driving and had an accident.  In the moment, the most that I had time to say was "JESUS."  I yelled His name.  Yes I did!  Hallelujah!  Immediately, I was comforted and felt assurances from on high.  JESUS was present indeed and knew how to provide me that fast food.  No one else delivers on His levels!  Thank you, Lord.

Overall, though, we know that a steady diet of fast food is not healthy.  Medical studies have proven that it clogs arteries, among other unhealthy things that it does.  We cannot expect to sufficiently grow spiritually if we regularly drive through on our Lord.  He is not a No. 2 or No. 3 from the fast food menu.  He is No. 1 and we need to indulge with Him in "slo mo" to give Him our best and to receive the best that He has to offer.   

Let us habitually have sit down meals with our Lord in fine dining mode.  He shares nothing but the best quality cuisine.  Oh glory! how marvelously He feeds His sheep.  Truly, to indulge in regular profitable holy digestion does our hearts good.

Got milk?

Samples from the scriptural menu:

John 6:48
I am that bread of life.

Psalm 90:17
And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.

Mark 16:15
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Sandra

Written Monday January 24, 2011

NOTE 1 - This topic is available for copying/printing/distribution. It has been posted on blog, "FREELY RECEIVED FREELY GIVEN" at http://www.giftsfromglory.blogspot.com/. Conditions for usage are posted there, as well.

NOTE 2 - Please read here under the separate tab titled, "TO EVERY THING THERE IS A SEASON" topic
 [1] "WAR ON COPS HEADLINE" - at least 11 shot in 24 hours.  Please pray for those in law enforcement.  Thank you.

ESTIMATION MATTERS

Greetings -

Scriptures from the King James Bible

This post is inspired by Timothy who made this statement (used here by permission) about Satan in the comment area on this blog under the topic, "FEAR FACTOR - YOKE DESTROYED - ISAIAH 10:27..." dated Monday January 17, 2011:

"While we should not fear the devil, we should respect him and his diabolical wisdom. That wisdom is powerful. He could sell a used car salesman a refrigerator in Alaska!”

Our Lord quickened my spirit when I read Timothy's comment.  Later He told me to write a post to expand on the matter.

My belief is that next in line after GOD, JESUS and THE HOLY SPIRIT, and the holy angels - is Satan - relative to intelligence and power. 

We, the people of GOD can be in danger, spiritually and otherwise if we underestimate Satan as we can be if we overestimate him.

Satan is a warrior, albeit on the wrong side - but a warrior he is.  By no means is he a lightweight.  While he cannot, of course, defeat the most High GOD, who is FATHER, SON AND HOLY SPIRIT, or GOD's purposes, Satan is a formidable opponent against the forces of purity.  Those with pure hearts and clean hands are prime targets for Satan's opposition.  

When Satan "shoots" at us, he is NOT shooting blanks.  His ammo has the potential to kill in more ways than one.  He operates with cold-blooded skilled calculations.  He is a strategic and highly intelligent operative.   He has a kingdom - the kingdom of darkness, and he is the god of this world - 2 Corinthians 4:4.  Remember it tells us in Ephesians 6:12, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."  

The Devil lurks, ensnares, beguiles, deceives, and knows precisely what "buttons" of ours to push and when - often when we are at our most vulnerable.  He is adept at ambushes and he uses "high-tech" surveillance methods.  His job title includes cunning manipulator.   He takes people captive - 2 Timothy 2:26.  Genesis 3:1 says, "Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made."  "Yea, hath God said,...?" - Genesis 3:1.  "...If thou be the Son of God,..." - Matthew 4:6.  Now we need to remember that Satan had/has "the nerve" to challenge JESUS!

Satan has doctrines - the "doctrines of devils," it says in 1 Timothy 4:1, and "seducing spirits."  Also, we are warned in Matthew 16:6, "Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees."

No, people, Satan cannot be underestimated.  An excellent example is how he was able to use the disciple Peter in chapter 16 in the gospel of Matthew.  In verse 17, it says, "And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven."  Very shortly thereafter in verse 23, we read where Jesus rebuked Peter.  It says, "But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan:..."  Peter had just got "a word" from GOD (verse 17)!  And in the same chapter Jesus needed to rebuke him.  None of us is above such lapses.  May our GOD help us all.

Matthew 8:28 tells us, "...there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way."  We cannot afford to lose the awareness that Satan is fierce.  Also, it is imperative to remain mindful that he often turns on "charm" and transforms into an angel of light, as do his ministers, so says 2 Corinthians 11:14,15.    

Satan is on the prowl.  Here is an excellent example from our Lord's Word in Luke 11:24, 25, 26:

"When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.

"And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished.

"Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first."

The above clearly reveals that it is dangerous for us NOT to be filled with the Spirit of GOD with his Word in our hearts to DO it steadfastly!  James 1:22 says, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."

As Timothy said, "While we should not fear the devil, we should respect him and his diabolical wisdom. That wisdom is powerful." 

Certainly, Satan's wisdom is "earthly, sensual, devilish" - James 1:22 - but it is wisdom, nonetheless.

Jude 9 states, "Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee."  Zechariah 3:2, "And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan:.."  And Daniel 10:12, 13 says, "Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard and I am come for thy words.

"But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me;..."    

No, people, Satan ain't no joke!  It is critical that we strive, in earnest, NOT to be ignorant of his devices.  The Word of GOD states in 2 Timothy 3:13, "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."  With that being the truth, we of GOD's kingdom need to increasingly wax holy!  Job 17:9, "The righteous also shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger."  And Job 16:17, 19, "...my prayer is pure."  Also, now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high."

We need to faithfully abide under the shadow of the Almighty - Psalm 91.  There is no way that we can be victorious without obedience to the Word of GOD.  We do NOT have, within us, anything near powerful enough to conquer Satan, except through GOD.  Further, we do not want to be in positions where this happens to us as shown in The Acts 19:15,16, "And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?"  And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled..." 

When we walk with GOD, we have no need to fear Satan but we do need to respect that our Lord has allowed him to have a temporal kingdom - dark though it is. 

Praise GOD that His kingdom is the only kingdom that cannot be destroyed.  Daniel 7:27 says, "And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him."

Here are some scriptures to encourage us in our righteous journeys:

2 Peter 2:9
The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations,...

John 14:17
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

Proverbs 16:4
The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

John 14:30       
...for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.

The Acts 28:5
And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm. 

Sandra

Written Sunday January 23, 2011    

Copyright 2012

Note: This piece is available in my $4.99 e-book titled, Warfare Solutions Loaded with the Lion of Judah. You don't need e-readers to read e-books they can be read online, as well.

Here is the link to my e-books available on Smashwords.com
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/lioneagle

Titles:

- Warfare Solutions Loaded with the Lion of Judah

- Zest and Gusto in Christian Short Stories

- Championship Conduct - Excel in Care, Courtesy and Customer Service

Free samples of my e-books can be read on the subject site.

SPINACH IS ON THE MENU



Photo compliments of Sandra

Baltimore Harbor in Baltimore, MD 

Greetings -

Scriptures from the King James Bible

Joshua 1:8
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou  shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

This post is inspired by a Charisma magazine article that I received, via e-mail, this week.  The article by Pastor Dennis Cramer is titled, "It's Time to Dust Off Your Bible."  He mentioned that "Biblical ignorance is on the increase in the church, even to epidemic levels!"  Pastor Cramer went on to elaborate about the spiritual dangers of biblical ignorance.   

Here is what our Lord further shared with me about the matter:

Knowledge of His Word is vital to DO what it commands.  Regular engagement with the Holy Bible is essential nourishment for our spirits.  In Psalm 119, "thy word" is mentioned at least 35 times.  That, among other Bible indications, clearly shows that regular communion with our Lord, through His Word, is mandatory for spiritual potency and profitability.  Psalm 119:11 says, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

Some readers here are old enough to remember the Popeye the sailor man cartoon.  Popeye was small in stature with muscular forearms.  He would eat spinach and gain enormous strength from its digestion.  Spinach was the source of his courageous character.  Without spinach, Popeye was a mere mortal man.  

Our Lord emphasized to me that Popeye was a military man - a sailor.  A sailor man with a penchant for a spinach diet.  He knew what gave him his edge and he regularly went for it.  Spinach was a mainstay on soldier Popeye's menu.  The anchor for the sailor man was iron-contained spinach.

I looked up spinach and found that it is high in nutritional value and extremely rich in antioxidants.  Spinach is also considered a rich source of iron.  Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."

We are soldiers in the army of GOD.  His Word is our spinach.  When the Holy Bible is a mainstay on our menus, as we steadfastly purpose to search through and to do it, we are NOT mere mortals, but supernatural vessels in the hands of our Lord fit for our Master's use.  GOD'S Word is extremely rich and spiritually high in nutritional value.  It is our anchor as we sail the stormy seas of life.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  

Hebrews 6:19
Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast,... 

Irregular or no engagement with GOD and His Word is akin to beached whales.  Such disengagement renders us spiritually unprofitable and weak. 

Continued existence "out of the water" results in death.  Romans 8:6 says, "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."  

Let us sail the high seas with an abundance of spinach on the menu from which we faithfully select and digest with keen awareness of its rich properties.
                                                 ____

A shout out to Popeye. 

Sandra

Written Thursday January 20, 2011

Copyright 2011

Note: This topic is available for copying/printing/distribution.  It has been posted on blog, "FREELY RECEIVED FREELY GIVEN" at http://www.giftsfromglory.blogspot.com/.  Conditions for usage are posted there, as well. 

Note:
Please go to the separate tab here titled, RICK'S PLACE
and read his prayer.  Thank you

FREED FROM DEATH ROW

Greetings -

Scriptures from the King James Bible

A Visit From JESUS On "Death Row"

Here I sit on “Death Row” - my life down the tubes.  My head in my hands, I wail with grief at the “deadly” choices that I have made.  A broken soul am I.

All of a sudden, I hear the jangling of keys, and footsteps - as the Man approaches me on “Death Row.”

Brilliant light surrounds the space of my hopelessness.  I see the Man - His voice “as the sound of many waters.”

He speaks, “My name is JESUS and I have the keys of “hell and of death.”  “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven:…”

I listened with rapt attention to the Man, JESUS, who radiated with pure love and power.

Jesus speaks, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” – Romans 10:9

I do as JESUS says.  Peace washes over me as I am cleansed by His precious blood.

He gently commands, “Follow Me.”

I follow JESUS where He leads - as I pass from “Death Row” unto LIFE – with the everlasting KING!

Revelation 1:18
I am he that liveth, and was dead, and behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

Matthew 16:19
And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Revelation 1:15
…and his voice as the sound of many waters.

Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him,…

Sandra

Written January 16, 2011

©Copyright 2011

BONUS IN PINK

Greetings -

Job 11:15-19

 For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be stedfast, and shalt not fear:

Because thou shalt forget thy misery, and remember it as waters that pass away:

And thine age shall be clearer than the noonday; thou shalt shine forth, thou shalt be as the morning.

And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt take thy rest in safety.

Also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid;…

PREFACE TO BONUS IN PINK:

Some years ago, I was given a "pink slip bonus" - translation: I was out of a job.  To say that it traumatized me is an understatement.

Today, though, what I can truly say is that it was one of the best things that happened to me because, through it all, our Lord repeatedly proved to me that He was/is at the helm.  I cannot find adequate words to describe how hugely GOD proved Himself to me through the pain of that trauma.  Tears of gratitude well in my eyes now as I write this because I remember how low I was, and now how high, in Him, I have become.  In sum, our Lord made the pink slip a bonus for me.  Only GOD can do such transformations.  Glory to His awesome name.

On Wednesday December 22, 2010, our Lord led me to write the piece below for others who have endured job losses.  I used "I" and "me" in the piece below because it makes it more personal for those who personally relate.

BONUS IN PINK:

GOD is our SOURCE, and PROVIDER.  I am the recipient of a "pink slip bonus."  Truly, it is a GOD-sent promotion.  He needs me to move on to deeper levels and higher heights in Him.  Blessed assurances are what our Lord provides so bountifully.  He takes such great care of us, his sheep.  How wondrous GOD is.  He knew about my "pink slip bonus" before the words reached me.  Indeed, He is our advance coverage.  In so many ways, our Lord covers us under the shadow of His wings.

By faith, I am fully persuaded that GOD has specific and precise plans for me.  My present place allows me a "season" to reflect, to re-evaluate, and to sit at the Master's feet to drink more of the living waters that He has so plentifully provided for me.

Yes, GOD knows that I have some pain and regret, but in Psalm 23:6 it says, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me..."  My feet are on the ROCK, and healing is guaranteed by the Highest promise keeper.  GOD'S Word assures in Isaiah 40:31, "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles;..."

My Lord beckoned, "Come away, My beloved.  Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away.  For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone;"

I'm out - - pink no more - rather:

RED DRENCHED - in the precious blood of my beloved SAVIOR, JESUS, who certainly will make me free, content, secure, and full of His Spirit - prepared to advance His glorious kingdom.

Daniel 7:27 - KJV

And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.

Below are other scriptures relative to this piece.

From the King James Bible:

Psalm 91
Psalm 23
2 Samuel 23:3
Isaiah 40
Romans 4:21
Song of Solomon 2:10, 11

Sandra
Written December 22, 2010

Copyright 2011

Note 1. - This topic is available for copying/printing/distribution.  It has been posted on blog, "FREELY RECEIVED FREELY GIVEN" at http://www.giftsfromglory.blogspot.com/.  Conditions for usage are posted there, as well.

Note 2. - Please read the ANNOUNCEMENT directly below this post.  It has information about Rick L. King.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Greetings -

Today it is my pleasure to formally introduce you to Rick L. King who has graciously agreed to be a guest on LIONS SHARE MAJESTY.

Rick's content can be found under the separate tab here titled, "RICK'S PLACE."  

I "met" Rick on http://www.faithwriters.com/ and was deeply affected by his writing.  Please visit RICK'S PLACE here.  Also, he just created his own blog yesterday.  Please visit him there at MINISTRY IN POEM at http://www.ministryinpoem.blogspot.com/.

Thank you for your indulgence.

If you haven't already read, BLOOD WORK AND FEAR FACTOR - YOKE DESTROYED..., you may be inclined to scroll down below to read those two pieces.   

BLOOD WORK

Greetings -

Scriptures from the King James Bible

Hebrews 10:19
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus.

There is a well-known pastor who is doing a series on the blood of JESUS.  I believe that he started the series last week and it continues on.  It has been of deep value to me.  One thing that was stressed is that we don't hear much anymore, through teaching and preaching, about the blood of JESUS.

These are three things that the pastor said about the blood of JESUS:

1. We have to know about the blood.
2. We have to believe in the blood.
3. We have to appropriate the blood. 

The Lord revealed to me that we need to remember the importance of the precious blood of His Son - our Lord and Saviour.  

I began this piece this week on Sunday January 16, 2011, but the Lord told me not to post it then.  Today I have some understanding as to why He desired that I put a hold on it. 

This morning, Tuesday January 18, 2011, a Christian came on a Christian radio program and stated the following:

1. The Lord gave her a vision about the blood of Jesus.
2. The Lord told her that we need to be washed in the blood daily.
3. He further told her that there is NOT anything that can set us free but the blood.
4. She stated that a lot of Christians are in bondage because they don't understand the blood of JESUS. 

The Lord put a hold on this post because He desired that the above two stated accounts be placed here together.  Two different Christians, in the same week, on two different programs shared what the Lord has revealed to them about the blood of JESUS.       

Here I share what our Lord further revealed to me:

We, the people of GOD, need more blood work to "pump up" our internal bleeding.  Let us line up for the blood bank at the red cross.  Oh! to be "baptized" anew in the blood of JESUS. 

We have much that the Devil does NOT possess.  Satan does NOT have access to the blood of JESUS.

We preach Christ crucified - 1 Corinthians 1:13.  And we are justified by the blood.  Further - thanks be unto GOD and JESUS that we enter into the holiest by the precious blood of the Lamb - King JESUS!!!

----------

Many have heard the song with these words, "There is power in the blood - wonder working power in the blood."  And the song with the lyrics, "What can wash my sins away, nothing but the blood of JESUS.  What can make me whole again, nothing but the blood of JESUS."

I need to add here that many of us have heard Christians say, "I plead the blood of JESUS."  I have said it because I have heard other Christians say it.  But this week, as our Lord led me to copy "blood" scriptures, He noted to me that "plead the blood of JESUS" is NOT in the Bible (I use the King James Bible.)  (I know that we do state truths that are NOT in the Bible...)  In this instance, the Lord specifically spoke to me and emphasized that that statement is NOT in the Bible.  He instructed me, about the blood of JESUS, to think and say what IS in the Bible about it.  So that is what I have been doing.  I say something like:

"Thank You, Lord, that we enter into the holiest by the blood of JESUS." (Hebrews 10:19), "Thank You, JESUS, that we are justified by your blood." (Romans 5:9), "Praise You, JESUS, that we overcame by the blood of the Lamb." (Revelation 12:11), and "Thank you, JESUS, that we are washed from our sins in Your blood." (Revelation 1:5)    

Please join me on this blood journey -

The Acts 20:28
...to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

Romans 3:25
...through faith in his blood,...

Romans 5:9
...justified by his blood...

Ephesians 1:7
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;  

Ephesians 2:13
But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

Colossians 1:14
In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.

Colossians 1:20
And having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Hebrews 9:12
...but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

Hebrews 9:14
How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Hebrews 11:28
Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.

Hebrews 13:12
Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the camp.

Hebrews 13:20
Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant.  

1 Peter 1:2
Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace be multiplied.

1 Peter 1:19
But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

1 John 1:7
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

1 John 5:6
This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood.  And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.

1 John 5:8
And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.

Revelation 1:5
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth.  Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,  

Revelation 5:9
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Revelation 7:14
...These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

Revelation 12:11
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

Revelation 19:2
...and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand.

Revelation 19:13
And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.

Sandra

Began on Sunday January 16, 2011
Completed on Tuesday January 18, 2011

Note: This topic is available for copying/printing/distribution.  It is re-posted on blog, "FREELY RECEIVED FREELY GIVEN" at http://www.giftsfromglory.blogspot.com/.  Specifically, it is located under the separate TAB titled, “SPIRITUAL WARFARE.”  Also, on that blog, in the MAIN section area, at the top of the HOME page, are listed "Conditions" for such usage.

FEAR FACTOR - YOKE DESTROYED - ISAIAH 10:27...

Isaiah 10:27
...and the yoke is destroyed because of the anointing.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Greetings -

One of the most effective weapons that Satan uses against Christians is fear.  I speak as one who knows from experience.

There was a season when I was a Christian who had more faith in the Devil than in our Lord.  Satan had me scared on the regular.  The Holy Bible was a great help, as was prayer, church, and fellowshipping with other Christians.  But fear continued to grip me about various issues.  The best way to describe it is that the Word of GOD was in my head but had NOT yet penetrated my heart in sufficient manner where I could regularly and effectively believe GOD over Satan.  As a result, my faith was more in Satan's words, threats, and actions.  I'm keeping it real here, people.  There were times when I allowed Satan to deceive me into believing that he had more power than GOD - UNTIL - thanks be unto GOD, I learned through process channels designed by our Lord, how to regularly and effectively fight the Devil from a place of victory. 

I learned to triumph over Satan by refusing to unduly discuss what he is doing to oppose GOD's purposes.  There are seasons when we need to vent about our challenges as there are seasons when it is justified to complain but, too often, some of GOD'S people invest overtime in venting and complaining about how Satan fights against us.  To do such, glorifies Satan rather than GOD. 

We are commanded to love our enemies.  That is one of the most effective ways to fight the Devil.  Love the sinner - hate the sin.

Our Lord taught that we can fight Satan by quoting scripture as JESUS did in Matthew 4.  We can be transformed by renewing our minds in GOD'S Word daily - Romans 12:2.  We can speak and sing in tongues, and praise our Lord in song, dance, and prayer regularly with fervency.  Most importantly, we are commanded to be doers of the Word of GOD.  Those are GOD'S ways to fight and to resist the Devil.   

Yes, our Lord can root and ground us so powerfully that our mind sets and heart sets become one with Him.  It is certainly possible that our automatic responses become increasingly GOD-minded.  GOD can get us to places in Him where we are fully persuaded that greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world.  There was a season in my life when I would quote that, and other scriptures but my heart was not rooted in those scriptural truths.  My head believed but my heart just didn't get it.

I had to be processed by our Lord to obtain a rock solid belief system.  After various tests and trials, the Lord has worked in me such certainty about His power over all, that it is rare that Satan frightens me.  I say rare, rather than not at all because we know that our flesh makes appearances and we are charged to bring it under subjection.

I don't know if this is the case for anyone else this fresh new year but Satan has already come on strong against me.  My spiritual sense indicates that his fury is fiercer.  Does anyone else get that spiritual sense?

Well, this is a warning for us all.  We are commanded NOT to fear the Devil but we must be vigilant because his fury is on the increase because he knows that his time is shorter.

We Christians must fight against fear because the Word of GOD tells us in Matthew 25:25, 26, "And I was afraid, and went and hid..."  "His Lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant,..."

Of course, baby Christians need to mature and it is understandable that they have more fear issues.  But for some more experienced Christians who have been saved for lengthy periods of time yet still are regularly seized by fear, it is time to grow up.  Otherwise, Satan will continue to wreak havoc on such minds and hearts.

Seek GOD, in earnest, for how to fight the Devil and to win on the regular!  Satan aims to devour and what often happens is that too many Christians give Satan ground and he seizes those opportunities to shake to the core.  Truth be told - some Christians are terrified of Satan and have been for longer than the extent of our Lord's longsuffering.  I was afraid a lot until our Lord taught me how to regularly overcome.  After sufficient processes, the Lord told me - enough!  He emphatically told me to stop whining and surrendering to the wiles of Satan, and to execute with GOD'S full armour - Ephesians 6.  Our Lord made it clear that He had sufficiently prepared me - now it was up to me to go to it and do it - habitually.  GOD will NOT do it all.  

1 Samuel 17:45 says, "Then said David to the Philistine, thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied."  And 1 Samuel 17:48, "...David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine."  

Satan is NOT going to lay down his weapons.  More Christians need to pick up theirs and FIGHT.  Now is the time to fight and to know that, through JESUS, we have the victories.  We are charged to fight the forces of darkness.  If we refuse, Satan celebrates.  

Demons and devils are here.  Principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness, and spiritual wickedness in high places - they are all here.  Failure to deal with such will NOT make them disappear.  In the Word of GOD, we read where JESUS rebuked, and cast out devils.  He was NOT afraid of them.  He had and has authority over all the power of the enemy.  We have been given power and authority over all devils.  It says so in GOD'S Word.  Luke 9:1, "...and gave them power and authority over all devils,..."  And Luke 10:19, "Behold, I give unto you power...over all the power of the enemy:..."  WE need to stay in position - ready - aim - fire - at Satan, devils, and wicked devices.

We cannot afford to be spiritual punks, or wimps.  Satan can consume only if we cease to yield to our Lord and resist the Devil. 

Nehemiah 4:14, "...Be not afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible, and fight..."  Nehemiah 4:17, "...every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon."  Jeremiah 51:20, "Thou art my battle ax and weapons of war:..."  Joel 2:7, "They shall run like mighty men; they shall climb the wall like men of war; and they shall march every one on his ways, and they shall not break their ranks."

We can do this, people.  We are built to last - not to faint.  

The Word of GOD is quick and powerful and sharper than any twoedged sword - Hebrews 4:12.  We are not our own - we are  bought with a price - 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.  JESUS did not shed his blood to purchase us to have his sheep as prey for the Devil.  He died and rose again for us to have Satan as our prey.  We are NOT expected to be tormented by the Devil.  We are charged to torment him. 

Let us live up to our Lord's purchase.  Let us reign - in this life - so that we can hear Him say in the next life, "Well done, good and faithful servant...enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." - Matthew 25:23.  

1 Corinthians 6:20
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

Revelation 5:10
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.   

Sandra

Written Monday January 17, 2011

Note 1. -  Interesting that today, the day after I posted this, a Christian pastor on the radio preached on "fear not"!  And just as the Lord had me to post here, the subject pastor used the story of David and Goliath, AND the pastor cited the same scripture, 1 Samuel 17:45, as is placed here!  Praise our Lord...!

Note 2. - Added Tuesday January 18, 2011: I modified this about 20 minutes ago to add the scripture Psalm 34:4 to the top of this post.    A few minutes ago, I received, via e-mail, from Rick, comments relative to this which I just posted in the comment area.  I was pleasantly surprised when I read Rick's comment and noted that he cited Psalm 34:4 in his comments!   

This piece is available in my $4.99 e-book titled, Warfare Solutions Loaded with the Lion of Judah.

Here is the link to my e-books available on Smashwords.com
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/lioneagle

Titles:

- Warfare Solutions Loaded with the Lion of Judah

- Zest and Gusto in Christian Short Stories

- Championship Conduct - Excel in Care, Courtesy and Customer Service

You don't  need e-readers to read e-books.  They can be read online, as well.

ANNOUNCEMENT

Greetings -

Directly below this "ANNOUNCEMENT" post is PART 2 OF GOD'S ADVENTURE FOR ME IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, included with a response from Rick.  If you are inclined to read PART 1 first, please scroll down on this MAIN page to read it.   

Also, please go, on this blog, to the separate tab titled, TO EVERY THING THERE IS A SEASON and read the excerpts from The Washington Post, and also the excerpts from two previous postings on this blog. The excerpts from The Washington Post have evidence/confirmation of what our Lord revealed...

Thank you for your indulgence.

GOD'S ADVENTURE FOR ME IN CHARLESTON - PART 2 WITH A RESPONSE FROM RICK

Greetings -

Last paragraph from CHARLESTON – PART 1:

When Jesse and I walked into the diner, there was a man, who appeared to be Hispanic or Native American, seated on a stool near the front door. He nodded at Jesse (I believe they had some sort of previous acquaintance).  As I observed that simple nod from the man, I hesitated because I felt a strong desire to engage him.  But the Lord told me to move on. Jesse and I sat at a booth and ate.  When we got to the front to leave, the man was gone.

CHARLESTON – PART 2:

Jesse and I walked to the Greyhound bus station and the “man on the stool” (I’ll call him Stealth Lion) was there standing outside the station.  We often don’t know, but Stealth Lion had the “look” of a homeless person.  He began to prophesy.  I don’t recall all of what he said but I do remember him boldly declaring that God was going into the crack houses, and also that God was going to bring whores to salvation.

The anointing of GOD on Stealth Lion was deeply obvious to me.  It was obvious from his countenance, and his voice.  In tone and inflection, he spoke with holy authority.  At one point, as he prophesied, Stealth Lion pointed his finger in a holy authoritative manner.  I was in the place where he pointed.  I didn’t get the sense that Stealth Lion’s intent was to point at me, but that he was making holy emphasis.  Such power came from him that, when he pointed my way, my body involuntarily moved, by the Spirit, in response to the power of GOD that came forth from him.  I was in high charge spiritual delight mode from this GOD display!

While Stealth Lion was prophesying, he had this “posture” that there was no one there but him and GOD.  He appeared oblivious to natural surroundings.  His prophesying was for a few minutes but the impact that it had on me was enormous.  Four years later when I think about it, my heart is stirred.

I didn’t get the sense that Stealth Lion was a baby Christian or a carnal Christian.  The sense that I got was that He KNEW GOD on a very familiar level.  My sense was that GOD and he were knit.

I cannot remember whether Jesse was inside or outside the station while Stealth Lion was prophesying.  I do remember that there were a few people outside who also witnessed the prophesying but I cannot remember their reactions.

At some point, Jesse was out there when I was about ready to go back to the motel.  As I walked away, the Lord told me to go back to give $5.00 to Stealth Lion.  I obeyed, and felt led to ask him to come to my motel room.

A few minutes after I got to the room, Stealth Lion knocked on the door.  He came in and picked up the Bible and started reading.  At some juncture, he was quoting scriptures.  I got the sense that he truly knew GOD as a Friend.  Stealth Lion had this presence that he was comfortable wherever he was.  When he came in and picked up the Bible he did it in a way that was void of any hesitation that he didn’t know me.  It was like he knew GOD and that was more than enough for him.  I didn’t feel concerned that Stealth Lion picked up the Bible without asking.  I just moved fluidly into his flow because my spirit knew that he was with GOD.

At one point, Stealth Lion got close enough to me where I smelled alcohol on his breath.  I was quite surprised.  I asked him in a loving tone something like, “I’m not judging you but how can you have such holy authority and anointing from GOD, and drink alcohol?”  (Yes, I know that some Christians drink alcohol…)

Stealth Lion told me that he had been diagnosed as schizophrenic and that he couldn’t afford medication.  He said that he uses alcohol as medication, and to help him to cope with living on the streets.

I was spiritually confused because I have met many Christians who DON’T consume alcohol who DON’T have such holy power in flow as I had witnessed from Stealth Lion.  How could this be, I wondered?!

To this day, Stealth Lion is the only person in such a state (alcohol habit) that I have met with such a powerful anointing from GOD.  Numerous other Christians that I have met and/or encountered who have habitual sin in their lives have little or no holy anointed power.  I can use myself.  When I was in “sin” mode, I didn’t have holy anointing in powerful flow.  Samson lost his holy power when he disobeyed GOD.  How does Stealth Lion have it with an obvious alcohol habit?  To date, I have not received an answer.

Anyhow, Stealth Lion told me that he is Native American and that he was adopted by a Jewish man.  There was some indication that he was in relationship, to some extent, with his adoptive father.  As for his birth parents, adoptive mother, and why he became homeless, I cannot remember what he stated.  He told me that he gets food from the trash.  He stated that GOD has never allowed him to go hungry.  He indicated that he got some pretty good meals from trash, I believe, he said outside of stores, etc.  When he told me this, he didn’t share as if he desired pity.  It was as if he was sharing that GOD provides.  He also shared with me that, relative to churches, his experience was that smaller churches were more generous than the larger ones.

Later in the motel lobby, the manager was at the front desk.  Stealth Lion gave me a warning about her.  When he warned me, I didn’t get the sense that he knew her or about her but that, in his spirit, he discerned something unpleasant about her.  Later two of the motel employees shared with me about unpleasant aspects of said manager.  And on another day, my personal experience with her confirmed what had been shared with me.  No matter…love is to be shown, regardless.

The Lord led me to invite Stealth Lion to church with me on the following Sunday morning.  He accepted, and came to the motel to meet me.  The church van picked us up.  We arrived at the church and engaged in praise and worship.  Stealth Lion stepped away.  The pastor preached on precisely where I was spiritually.  I cannot recall the sermon but I do remember that it was precisely on point.  It further convinced me that I was exactly where the Lord desired me to be – spiritually and physically.

By the end of service, Stealth Lion hadn’t returned.  When we got ready to leave in the van, he was nowhere to be found.  We had to go.  I never saw Stealth Lion again.

Question: Can someone please help me to understand how Stealth Lion can possess such a powerful holy anointing with an alcohol habit?

This adventure will be continued soon….

Sandra

Written Thursday January 13, 2011

Note: I did a "test" run of this piece, via e-mail, before I posted it here.  Several people commented.  Rick is the one whose permission I requested and was granted to post his response here.  Thank you, Rick.  Here is his response:

Sandra

Thanks again for sharing this with me.  Awesome adventure.  I think of this scripture in response to your question.

Ec 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

When we are religious we tend to always put people in a box and think that they must be a certain way for God to use them.  This scripture says that we all sin.  The problem we all face at times is that we tend to mistakenly make one sin worse than another.  If sin, in God’s eyes sin is sin.  No matter what it is no worse to God than any other sin.  Often what we as Christians consider a sin, is only a fault.  Though a person has yet to be set free does not mean that they are not crying out to be so.  If God had to find a perfect person with no sin, He would have no one to work through.  Paul died daily.  He dies to his flesh and it’s desires.  We all have died much but I have yet to meet anyone that is fully dead so to speak.  I think back years ago when the Holy Spirit asked me to lead a Bible study for the kids of a church.  We met in my home.  I was confronted one day by a kid saying, “how can you lead a Bible study and still smoke?”  This had always been a struggle for me as I had always cried out to the Lord to deliver me.  The church seemed to have the idea that if you smoked you couldn’t be a Christian.  That I have since learned is a religious spirit.  My response to this young man was this.  The Holy Spirit just put the words in my mouth.  He said that you can see what Rick struggles with but he can’t see what you struggle with.  How is one different than the other?  I also think of the scripture saying he that is without sin, let him cast the first stone.  The Lord gave me a article and teaching on that one with the emphasis as why is the stone in your hand in the first place?

I have come to the conclusion as the word says.  None of us are perfect.  It is only when the anointing hits do we become totally like him.  The scripture that says :

Ga 5:24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

The word Christ means anointed. When we are anointed our flesh is crucified...

Some people struggle with things that can be seen and others struggle with things only they and God know about.  God is the deliverer.  He delivers in His time and way.  It is really just like the Lord to use someone that is an alcoholic and to prophesy through.  He can use anyone at any time and can deliver anyone at any time.  His plans are far above ours.  He uses me and anoints me powerfully at times.  I am far from perfect.

I pray that this will shed some light on your question.

Blessings

Rick

January 14, 2011

Sandra’s Comments:

After I read Rick’s comments, via e-mail, and at least one other comment from someone else, via e-mail, I prayed and asked the Lord for help understanding this matter.  He gave me this from 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 – KJV:

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

I tend to believe, based on what Rick stated and what is contained in the scriptures above, that it is a matter of the hearts.  Paul had a thorn in the flesh that he sought GOD for deliverance from.  And as Rick stated, "Though a person has yet to be set free does not mean that they are not crying out to be so."

I believe that there is a difference if we are NOT inclined for deliverance...

Certainly, there is more that I need to understand about this matter, but presently, the above scripture passages with what the Lord gave Rick to share – gives me relief, assurances, and comfort.

Note: I looked up Charleston, South Carolina and found this:

It was  named "Holy City."  Charleston is known as the Holy City due to the prominence of churches on the low rise city scape, particularly the numerous steeples which dot the city's skyline.

Charleston has the fourth oldest Jewish congregation in the continental US - Kahal Kodosh Beth Elohim, found in 1749.

Charleston was also one of the first colonial cities to allow Jews to practice their faith without restriction and for the fact that it was one of the few cities in the original thirteen colonies to provide religious tolerance, albeit restricted to non-Catholics.

On June 9, 1861, Citadel cadets fired the first shots of the American Civil War when they opened fire on a Union ship entering Charleston's Harbor.

Sources: WordiQ.com and Wikipedia.com