Jumat, 31 Juli 2015

Transformational Truth


Transformational Truth

“Pilate said to Him, ‘What is truth?’”
JOHN 18:38

We are often unprepared for Truth, which is why Truth is revealed to us progressively. We must “grow up into Him” – we could not handle it otherwise. Even the little bit of Truth which is revealed to us often upsets us at our deepest foundations. We must be willing to live with the uncertainty and pain which Truth brings. But if we accept the Truth, and totally give ourselves to it, it will begin to change us. We will begin to be conformed to it, and it will become less painful.
I am convinced that if we refuse to accept the Truth we have been given then we will eventually lose it. This is why some grow spiritually and some do not. Even though they may acknowledge the same Truth, they may not be willing to accept the consequences of being transformed by that Truth, thus what little they have soon becomes dead manna.
Source: The Irresistible Kingdom by Chip Brogden

My Road for you - A Waterslide

My Road for you - A Waterslide

Even as it is when you get onto a waterslide, so is it when you follow me, says the Lord. When you get on a waterslide, once you push off, you have no choice but to go with the flow. As you just lean in and go with that flow, you will get to your destination and will even have fun. 
So as you have decided to take my hand and walk this walk with me, says the Lord, just lean in, trust me and have fun. I am with you and I have a clear road planned out for you. Just trust in my ways and as you do, you will get to your destination.
Rely on my joy as your strength and just allow me to do what I do best. I love you so much my child. Come, slide down this slide with me. This journey you are on may seem so hard sometime. However, as you trust me, it will indeed be induced with fun and you will reach your destination in no time, says the Lord.

Christ, Not Theology


Christ, Not Theology

“Put on the new man which was created according to God,
in true righteousness and holiness.”
EPHESIANS 4:24

The old man (self) is put off, and the New Man (Christ) is put on – this is Christianity. Christ then becomes my Righteousness and my Holiness. But too many of us take a natural, intellectual approach to Christianity. We think if only we can instruct people concerning the tenets of our faith, or persuade them with a logical argument, or woo them with some emotional plea, then we will have disciples. This is a falsehood. That is not Spirit and Life.
Christianity is not memorizing certain doctrines or disseminating a systematic theology or having people repeat a so-called “Sinner’s Prayer.” Christianity is becoming one with a God-Man! You can have all the other in its proper place, but for too long that “other” has been offered as Christianity. And so people touch our beliefs, our doctrines, our religion, our theology, our zeal, but they do not touch a Living Christ.
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden

Be the Light

Be the Light

My child, when darkness is all around you and all seems lost, stand firm in who you are. You carry the light of the world, the power of the living Christ inside of you. No matter what the enemy tries to do to discourage you, have faith in what is in you.
Continue to pour out the love that I have given you to nurture, save, and encourage in this broken world. When the darkness seems at its greatest, the Jesus that is within you will shine it's brightest. Remember that you never stand alone. You can always run to Me. You can come to Me for strength and wisdom, and whatever you need. So don't run from the wiles of the enemy out there. Come and get filled with Me, and then go out there to be the light to dispel the darkness!

The Deeper Christian Life


The Deeper Christian Life

“He who does not take his cross and
follow after Me is not worthy of Me.”
MATTHEW 10:38

Are you worthy of the Lord Jesus Christ? Hear what the Lord is saying here. “If you do not take up your Cross and follow Me, you do not deserve Me.”
It is not merely a question of are we following Christ. The crux of the matter is: have we taken up the Cross? There is an order to this call to become disciples of Jesus Christ: first, we must take up our Cross; only then may we follow after Him. It is not, “first follow Me, and later take your Cross.” The Cross is step one. Our taking up the Cross is basic to our following Christ, not something we are called to do after many years. The so-called “deeper Christian life” is but the normal Christian life. Anything less is abnormal. There is no greater depth to the Christian life but what God expects of all of us from the beginning. If we are getting any “deeper” it is only because we have hitherto been shallow. We must take our Cross and follow Jesus.
Source: Embrace the Cross by Chip Brogden

A World of Adventure

A World of Adventure

If you look up at the horizon, you will see how far and vast the land is. You will see that there is so much to discover in this world. There are lands that you have not stepped foot on and seas that you do not know about. My child, this world is vast and full of adventure and possibilities. In the same way, this life I have given you is a world of adventure.
There are many things to see and many experiences that I want you to have. Do not be afraid to step out. Remember to enjoy every experience that life has to offer. Do not let doubt and worry keep you bound, but know that as you step out and as you stretch your wings, I am here with you with every step that you take.
All things are possible through me, my child. Do not be afraid to dream, do not be afraid to run and discover what all is inside of you. For indeed, when you step out and follow Me, you will find that all the power and courage and wisdom that you need, is inside of you. Amen.

Radical Repentance


Radical Repentance

“If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe,
how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?”
JOHN 3:12

The path of progress, of spiritual maturity, hinges upon our willingness to let go of the old ways and embrace the new ways; to rise above the lower order of things and walk in a higher order – a heavenly way, a spiritual way, as opposed to the earthly, natural, carnal way that we are so used to walking. Repentance is a continual process of agreeing with what God shows us about ourselves and then making the necessary adjustments.
The Holy Spirit is intent upon making radical adjustments – to create in us a willingness to look at things differently; an eagerness to begin seeing things as God sees them, regardless of how uncomfortable that may be; to value the things that He values and let go of lesser things; to align ourselves with His Mind and Will for all things; to leave our ground altogether and come onto His ground – regardless of the consequences.
Source: The Irresistible Kingdom by Chip Brogden

I Want to Meet Your Need

I Want to Meet Your Need

My child, let go of any stress and any striving today. I am here for you. Even as a mother cradles her little baby tightly in her arms and takes care of its every need, so do I cradle you in my arms and take care of each and every one of your needs.
Do not try to do the right thing or run around, to meet your needs. Rather fall into my arms and let me fill you up. Then when you have received from me, you will have the strength to run and you will then also run with the right perspective and the right approach.
So trust in me my child. I am here for you. I want to carry you and see you through. I know the needs in your heart and I can fill them. So come and jump into my arms and let me fill you up, says the Lord.

Minggu, 26 Juli 2015

The Return of the King


The Return of the King

“This Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in all the world
as a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.”
MATTHEW 24:14

Why does the Lord delay His return? Not for any lack of desire on His part to consummate His Kingdom, but because of His great love, and His compassion for all. Peter says He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. We have noted how the Gospel of the Kingdom is rarely preached today. Perhaps God is revealing this to His people yet again, re-emphasizing it to the Ekklesia so it can be proclaimed to all nations as His last invitation before the end of this age.
The fact that we do not know when He will return, the fact that we are to be ready at all times, means there is nothing to prevent Him from coming today. The next great event in the recovery of the Heavenly Order is the return of the King.
Source: The Irresistible Kingdom by Chip Brogden

A Predictable Path


A Predictable Path

“Indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of
the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss
of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”
PHILIPPIANS 3:8

For the Christian, Christ is increasing, Christ is becoming larger and larger, Christ is becoming the focus. It is quite simple to see who is, and who is not, living up to this standard.
The more spiritually mature a person is the more Christ-centered they cannot help but become. This is the unavoidable and inevitable consequence of becoming a Christian, a disciple of Jesus. This is how the Holy Spirit leads each and every true believer, and there are no exceptions to the rule. It is as predictable and certain as the sunrise following after the darkness of night.
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden

Grow Over Night

Grow Over Night

Have you ever watched a blade of grass, or any other plant go through a growing process? The most growth takes place when the ground is in the shade and fully wet. When it's night time, it's cool and there is enough water in the ground, then the seed just sprouts so quickly.
My child, it's in the shade that you grow. It's when you soak in my anointing that you take leaps forward. So today, come and be as a seed at night. Let me take you and shield you from the harshness of the sun, and let me water you with my love.
As you come to me, you will soak up the goodness and the life, and you will grow so much. When you leave my presence, and people look at you, they will see the difference. A little blade of grass would have sprouted up just like that - over night.
So come to me. Set aside the cares of life for a moment and let me nurture and refresh you, says the Lord.

Jumat, 24 Juli 2015

Christ My Righteousness


Christ My Righteousness

“But of Him you are in Christ Jesus,
who became for us wisdom from God — and righteousness
and sanctification and redemption.”
1 CORINTHIANS 1:30

This is a very rich verse. We have already seen how the Lord Jesus is given to be our Life. Upon that basis we can lay claim to everything else. Here we see that to those of us who are in Christ, He is made to be our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. It does not say that He gives these things to us, but that He is these things in us.
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden

Smile Your Way to Victory

Smile Your Way to Victory

I have come to give you life and life abundantly. It's my joy that truly is your strength my child. Today, as you face the challenges of your life, smile at each difficulty. Come to me and give thanks. Come to me and praise me. As you do, your focus will shift, you will be able to allow me to put a smile on your face, and the problems will melt away.
There is nothing that is too hard for me to do, my child. My hand is not too short to reach. I am your heavenly father and I am here to bring about a miracle in your life. I am here to give you joy so that every single area in your life that is currently being challenged, would come into focus and would come right, says the Lord.
I am here for you and I am taking you to where you need to be. Just put your focus on me, let me give you my joy and you will overcome the wiles of the enemy! Amen.

Kamis, 23 Juli 2015

Spiritual Arrogance


Spiritual Arrogance

“A dispute arose among them as
to which of them would be greatest.”
LUKE 9:46

Peter made a splendid beginning by frankly acknowledging himself as a sinner, and so the Lord took him just as he was and began to disciple him.
After making some progress, however, Peter started to lose touch with himself. He had followed Jesus for three years and enjoyed close fellowship with Him. He had both seen and performed miracles in Jesus’ Name. To all outward appearances he was no longer a “sinful man,” he was a “spiritual man.” Before, Peter considered himself unworthy to be in the presence of Jesus. In just a short period of time you find this “sinful man” arguing along with the other disciples about which one of them will be the greatest!
This ought to show us that there is a deeper death for us to die, and the more “spiritual” we become, the more easily we are deceived by our own spirituality.
Source: Embrace the Cross by Chip Brogden

Prince of Peace

Prince of Peace

I am the Prince of Peace, my child, so when everything around is shaking, know that you do not need to be shaken as well. Inside of you resides a peace that surpasses all understanding.
Simply be still and see me there holding you in the palm of my hands. See me there with your head pressed against my bosom. I am able to keep you calm and give you peace through every situation.
Know that this peace is a gift that the world does not have. I am your portion in this world, so eat of Me and you will discover that there is nothing that can overcome you.
Indeed, your present is secure, your future is secure, and every circumstance in your life can be brought in order, in your favor. Peace and satisfaction is your inheritance. Take hold of it today, my child and you will feel my arms that have always been wrapped around you. I have gone nowhere, and indeed, I will never leave your side. Be still and know that I am in control. Amen.

What Does God Want?


What Does God Want?

“I am the Way.”
JOHN 14:6

What is God after? What does He seek from us? What does He want? First and foremost, He desires a people who will be conformed to the image of His Son, that they may demonstrate the preeminence of Christ in all things. But how does He gain such a people for Himself? The first step is to reveal His Son to us. This is the narrow gate. We cannot begin to walk the narrow path until we have entered the narrow gate.
Upon entering the narrow gate He begins to change us from the inside out so that it is Christ expressing Himself through us. “Not I, but Christ.” This is the narrow path. This narrow path we call discipleship. It leads us somewhere. A path is not for standing still. It has a destination. Where does the path lead? What is the End? Christ as All in All. That is the End. All things work together according to this supreme purpose, His Purpose.
Source: Embrace the Cross by Chip Brogden

You are a Victor

You are a Victor

My child, you do not have to fear the winds and the waves that may be coming against you. For I have given you the power to still the waves and to silence the storms. Do not let them boss you around, but speak to them and bring peace.

For this life that I have given you is one where you can rest in my abundance and exceeding joy. You do not have to just lie down and be pushed around by the enemy, or any of his tactics. You are more than a conqueror.

I have given you the power to no longer be the victim, but to be the victor. So stand up, my child, and put the enemy beneath your feet and stand on the promises that I have given you, says the Lord.

Stir Up the Life


Stir Up the Life

“Our sufficiency is from God.”
2 CORINTHIANS 3:5

How will He do it? How will He demonstrate the sufficiency of His Life to do everything in your stead? Why, the next time you feel your temper getting out of control, or the person you resent is bothering you, or things are not going right, or you are tempted to quit, decide that instead of reacting the way you always do, you will trust in His Life, then stand back and just see what happens.
If you are a Christian the Life is there, it just has to be stirred up into activity. The things we call temptations, testings, and trials are the very means through which God desires to activate the Life He has placed within you! How else would we be able to rejoice in our afflictions? How else would we be able to count it all joy when we fall into many temptations and trials of faith? Humanly speaking this is impossible! But what is impossible with man is possible with God, and easily achievable when we trust in His Life to do what we cannot do.
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden

Guard Your Heart

Guard Your Heart

My child, when you are fearful and suddenly doubt what is good, notice that these are not blessings from me. Do not allow the enemy to speak into your ear, but cast down every thought that does not align with my nature.
I have given you good promises and words of life that will push you forward. However, the enemy does not want you to succeed. Remember that he comes to kill and destroy and so stand guard against his attacks. Do not be overcome with fear or doubt, but know that I have not given this spirit to you.
I have given you power and peace and love. I have come to give you life. So as you press on and expect a good future, remember to hold on to my words and shake off the lies of the enemy that will come.
Always incline your ears to my voice, and also recognize the voice of the thief. When you shake off the lies of the enemy, he will flee from you. Then you will feel my peace all around you. Faith and hope and love will surround you and bubble up from within you. That is what my word produces, my child. So stick close to my voice and guard your heart against any other, and indeed, you will always walk in freedom.

I AM


I AM

“When He said to them, ‘I am He,’ they
drew back and fell to the ground.”
JOHN 18:6

When they came to arrest the Lord Jesus in the garden, He asked, “Who are you looking for?” And they answered, “Jesus of Nazareth.” He simply said, “I AM.” When they heard this they fell over backwards to the ground. No one can stand before I AM and retain any of their strength. To the ground we will all go, for that ground is holy. Every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
This revealing of Christ is sufficient to bring saint and sinner alike into absolute surrender and submission. Friends and foes alike find themselves at His feet, quite unable to stand before Him. He does not have to raise His voice or call down fire from Heaven or do anything other than simply reveal Himself for Who He is. Every doubting Thomas eventually cries out, “My Lord and My God!” when they finally behold Him.
Source: The Irresistible Kingdom by Chip Brogden

My Love is Unconditional

My Love is Unconditional

My child, I love you not because of all that you have done for me, but simply because you are my child. If you do not do another thing, my love, you are mine and I am yours and I will not love you any less.

This love that I have for you is a love that is unconditional and there is nothing that can separate you from it.

So, come and run into my arms and let me pour this love upon you so that you may come to know me as you are known, and so that you may come to pour out to others, just as I have done and will do for you, says the Lord.

The Heart of a Warrior

The Heart of a Warrior

What makes a warrior strong is not necessarily the strength in His body. What makes him strong is the wisdom in which he approaches a situation. Also, it is his heart that makes him strong. In the same way, my child, it's not your ability that I see or that I even desire to refine. It's your heart and the way in which you approach each situation. 
That is what I care about my child! So run to me afresh today and just lay down your striving. Let go of trying so hard and of just building all your muscles all the time. Sure, in time that will come, but when that time comes it will be the wisdom in your spirit and the commitment in your heart that will influence and change those things in your life.
So come to me today, with your simple heart of a warrior. Then let me make you strong. Let me give you the wisdom you lack and let me show you what you can't see. I love you so much and I am right here by your side, says the Lord.

Preeminent Victory


Preeminent Victory

“Whatever is born of God overcomes the world.”
1 JOHN 5:4

The Overcomer demonstrates the preeminence of Christ over sin, self, and satan. How is preeminence demonstrated if we are still trying to fight our way to victory? We must stand in victory, not battle for it. If we do fight, we fight FROM victory, not FOR victory. It must be to us an accomplished fact, not a future hope, and just there lies the difference between those who are still waging warfare and those who are quietly resting in Christ and steadily praying His Will into the earth.
Source: The Irresistible Kingdom by Chip Brogden

Radical Repentance


Radical Repentance

“‘The stone which the builders rejected has become
the chief cornerstone,’ and ‘A stone of stumbling
and a rock of offense.’”
1 PETER 2:7,8

The people to whom Jesus preached already had their own ideas about what the Messiah would do, and what His Kingdom would look like. Unfortunately those ideas were utterly wrong. So Jesus said they needed to repent: to change their heart, to change their mind, to change their behavior, and to get ready to experience something that went totally against their preconceived ideas and notions.
To enter the Kingdom of God and to know the King around which this Kingdom is organized requires a radical change on many levels. The way you perceive things, the way you relate to things, the way you understand things – all of it has to be changed. At the very least it must be challenged.
Source: The Irresistible Kingdom by Chip Brogden

Do not Regret the Journey

Do not Regret the Journey

Not every step that you take in this life, shows you the journey that is ahead. Many roads you travel reveal the journey just a step at a time. So my child, do not be discouraged if you do not see everything that you will face or understand everything that you will experience. For this journey is one where I shall reveal the future, just one step at a time.
Yet with each step you take, you will gain ground and the more you progress, the more you will understand. The more you will become established and the more you will understand the bigger plan. For if I had to show you the complete plan ahead of time, you would not be able to take in every aspect of it. However, as I lead you just one step at a time, I am burning into your spirit the pattern that I have for you. I am teaching you and showing you each aspect of my pattern.
This way, you will never forget. You will never regret any step you take and you will then have gained something that you can pass on to others. So do not regret the journey my child. Do not regret the steps you have taken, for they will not only lead to a wonderful destination, but they are equipping you with tools that will indeed remain, says the Lord. Amen.

We Have Forgotten How to Blush

We Have Forgotten How to Blush

7.23.CC.ForgottenHowBlush
“They did not know how to blush. They were not ashamed of their belittling of God’s glory, rebellion against God’s authority and dismissing of God’s word.”
If there is one thing we can be certain of when we read the news today it is that we should not be surprised. The staggering rate of the moral revolution has conditioned us this way. Each day’s headlines bring with it a sense of moral ascent (or descent, depending upon your perspective). And here I am not simply talking about so-called same-sex marriage and the erosion of religious liberty. Like dropping a line in the water, you often catch more than just a fish. We are pulling a lot into the boat that shapes our experience.
If one were inclined to be objective, they might open their eyes and ears and try to pinpoint a root. Walk through the malls, the public square, flip through the TV, read the paper, listen to the chatter and talk to strangers.
This is what I’ve been doing for quite some time. My conclusion: We have forgotten how to blush.

Why Would We Blush?

We blush because we are ashamed or embarrassed. In the Scriptures, we see this happen in Genesis chapter 3. After Adam and Eve sinned, they attempted to hide from God because they were ashamed. They felt accountable to God. There was an awareness of internal shortcomings, corruption or imperfection, as well as an awareness of an external standard. What’s more, they were aware that they were accountable to God and that he would hold them accountable.
Today we are largely ignorant of the first and indifferent to the second. We believe in a self that is not flawed and a God that is not holy. This is why the Apostle Paul’s words ring true: “There was no fear of God before their eyes” (Rom. 3:18).
But this is not a virtue. It is actually a deceptive vice that substantiates the divine arrest warrant. When God was indicting the nation of Israel, he listed out their sins and how they were expressed in society. He promised destruction and judgment. It was not pretty. And then in time, it happened—just as God said it would. When you read through this indictment you will be struck with this verse:
“The wise men shall be put to shame; they shall be dismayed and taken; behold, they have rejected the word of the Lord, so what wisdom is in them?” (Jeremiah 8:9)
and ..
“Were they ashamed when they committed abomination? No, they were not at all ashamed; they did not know how to blush. Therefore they shall fall among the fallen; when I punish them, they shall be overthrown, says the Lord.” (Jeremiah 8:12)
They did not know how to blush. They were not ashamed of their belittling of God’s glory, rebellion against God’s authority and dismissing of God’s word.
This is not a good place to be. The Bible and history demonstrate that this intoxication with self-autonomy only leads to disaster. Regrettably, each generation seems to have to learn or refuses to learn this lesson for themselves.

Toward a Healthy Self-Awareness

The only way to really know how to blush is to truly see the cross. Upon the cross, Jesus was shamed for us. The eternal Son of God, the Prince of heaven, the utterly perfect and righteous One, he suffered and died for sinners. The cross was an ampitheather of shame. Christ hung naked and was tortured in front of everyone. He was so full of shame that people would turn their face away from him (Isa. 53:3). They were ashamed of how shamed he was! And there upon that cross, Jesus took upon himself the guilt, shame and wrath due to those who spurned God’s holy and perfect Law. He bore the wrath in full so that rebels like me and you could receive the blessing of forgiveness, cleansing and acceptance.
The only way to be truly taught how to blush is to become aware of our sin and convinced of God’s holiness. The best place to see this is the cross of Jesus Christ. Grab a front row seat and become ashamed, only to realize that you’re truly loved and accepted.  

Erik Raymond Erik is a pastor at Emmaus Bible Church (EmmausBibleChurch.org), a church plant south of Omaha. Converse with Erik on Twitter at @erikraymond. More from Erik Raymond or visit Erik at http://www.ordinarypastor.com/

Hindered by False Humility


Hindered by False Humility

“Stir up the gift of God which is in you
through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us
a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.”
2 TIMOTHY 1:6-8

Paul does not tell Timothy to pray for a better opportunity, or passively wait for God to rise up within him and overwhelm him. Timothy needed to exercise the gift. He needed to stir it up. He had something to offer, something to contribute.
Paul’s exhortation was not to persist in false humility or passive waiting, but to be proactive, to stir it up, and serve the Body of Christ as a faithful steward. According to Paul’s assessment, it was not a spirit of humility that held Timothy back, it was a spirit of fear.
Source: The Church in the Wilderness by Chip Brogden

When the Enemy Comes in Like a Flood

When the Enemy Comes in Like a Flood

The waves of the ocean have the potential to crush you or the potential to lift you higher than ever before. It is how you approach the wave that will determine the outcome. So when the enemy comes in as a flood, do not fear or expect to be crushed, but rather see it as an opportunity to gain a new perspective on your , says the Lord.
For when you can learn to take what the enemy throws at you and turn it around for my good, then there is nothing more that he can do that will bring you down! Instead you will take on wave after wave and you will grow and see things you never saw before. Yet so many, when they see the first wave, they try to run away from it and in the end, the wave overcomes them and they are discouraged.
Do not be like this my child. Rather face the wave in my name and in my blood and embrace it! Believe that all things work together for good. For even the work that the enemy tries to use to discourage you, can be turned around for a greater victory in your life. When you take on this outlook, there is nothing that will trip you up any longer. There is nothing the enemy can throw at you that will discourage you.
Not only will he stop attacking you in this way, but you will also become stronger! You will be firmer in your faith and have a clear mind to love and to hope! So ride those waves right now and see that you can do all things in my name, says the Lord.

Rabu, 15 Juli 2015

Armageddon – painting a picture of hope for the future

Armageddon – painting a picture of hope for the future
The amazing story of the colonel’s wife who held the bullets for a machine-gun in a battle won without a shot fired
By Charles Gardner, Special to ASSIST News Service
DONCASTER, UK (ANS -- July 15, 2015) -- Armageddon, biblical scene of the world’s last great battle that will usher in the return of Jesus Christ, is no fictional location. It is a real place at Megiddo in northern Israel that has witnessed conflicts going back several millennia, but which has also inspired a series of priceless paintings.
Armageddon BaptismThe works are the legacy of Lady Barbara Brassey, who died in her 99th year in 2010, and have been left in the custody of Wrexham-based TV and radio executive, Gareth Littler1.
Lady Brassey actually played a part in the little remembered 1939 Battle of Armageddon (the Greek name for Megiddo, which overlooks the Plain of Jezreel) that was won without a shot being fired and which paved the way for the birth of modern Israel.
Yet if the Islamic jihadists who fled from the British forces at Megiddo had been successful, it could all have been so different. However, they have now re-emerged as perhaps the biggest threat, not only to Israel, but to world peace.
For though Armageddon itself has since been quiet, wars and revolutions have broken out all over the Middle East, prompting fears of something much bigger and more brutal to come.
Of great strategic importance, Megiddo guards a narrow pass on the ancient Egypt-Assyria trade route and is perhaps the most fought over place on earth. It was also where General Allenby’s British Allied troops defeated the Turks in 1918 after taking Jerusalem without a shot fired.
But the paintings speak of hope, not war. The hands of the artist actually held the bullets with which to feed the machine gun aimed at the invading jihadists. Lady Brassey2 was married to Col Campbell Westmoreland, who marched his battalion from Caesarea on the coast to face a hostile army at Megiddo. He lined his men up with their rifles and stationed his best ‘Tommy’ on the flat roof of a nearby building with a machine gun.
Outnumbered and short of men, he asked his wife to feed the gun with the bullets. But miraculously, no shots were fired as, suddenly and inexplicably, the entire jihadist army turned and marched away. The war developed along different lines, and in other theatres.
But, as Gareth Littler put it: “If that part of Palestine had fallen to a cohesive, organized jihadist army in 1939, no Jewish refugees could have passed through Haifa or Tel Aviv sea ports in the 1940s. The extraordinary battle helped pave the way for modern Israel. And in thanks to God for such a miracle, we have these marvelous paintings as a lasting legacy.”
Barbara became a committed Christian in later life and the ‘Armageddon Paintings’ – depicting ten scenes from the Bible including Jesus’ baptism, crucifixion, resurrection and return to earth at the end of the age – are seen as a prophetic sign that when Christ intervenes, peace is secured.
Lady Brassey was a silver medal winner at the Royal Academy with works exhibited in London, Paris, America and South Africa, and this unique collection has been described as “priceless” by fine art valuer Peter Ashburner.
Armageddon AscensionThe collection is expected to attract particular interest at a time when the sort of apocalypse envisaged by biblical prophets like Ezekiel and Daniel, and Jesus himself in the Book of Revelation, is becoming an ever-greater present reality.
Gareth says the message, both of the experience of Barbara at Armageddon that inspired the paintings and of the Scriptures themselves, is that it will not be Russia, as many Christians believe, that launches an all-out attack on Israel in the last days, but an alliance of Islamic jihadists.
Muslim countries, he explains, have a history of recurring jihad (holy war) in common – Islamic State arose 100 years after the massacre of millions of Armenians and others in a Turkish jihad.
An apocalyptic scenario is rapidly developing before our eyes, but the solution lies with the Lord Jesus Christ, the prophet Isaiah’s ‘Prince of Peace’, who will bring an end to warmongering as he turns swords into ploughshares and spears into pruning hooks (Isaiah 2.4).
Gareth wonders, too, whether the 1939 battle could also be a prophetic picture of God intervening there again with massive power at the end of time, with victory again won without men firing a shot!
Zechariah wrote: “A day of the Lord is coming when… I will gather all nations to Jerusalem to fight against it… Then the Lord will go out and fight against those nations...” (Zech 14.1-3)
“World leaders recognize a cataclysmic world war is now possible, but those who love God are reassured over Armageddon,” says Gareth.
“As things get worse, the world will struggle to find answers. But the good news of the Armageddon Paintings is that the Christian gospel holds the answer because Jesus rose from the dead and is coming back soon!”
The custodians wish to sell the entire collection, also including ten plaques, with the intention that they will be displayed in an internationally prominent venue where the public can see and experience for themselves the story that lies behind them.
The paintings combine history and hope for the future, says Peter Ashburner, adding: “As a qualified valuer of many years’ experience, I have never seen such a fascinating and powerful collection of art; and for this reason, in my opinion and in the right hands, they are likely to be priceless.”
1 Gareth Littler is a farmer, scientist and broadcaster who, as director of United Christian Broadcasters, spent 14 years building up the UCB television, radio and media company from humble beginnings.
2 Her second marriage was to Lord Bernard Thomas Brassey, 2nd Baron of Apethorpe, Northamptonshire
Photo captions: 1) Behold, the Lamb of God! Cousin John baptizes Jesus in the Jordan. 2) Behold, he is coming in the clouds! When Jesus ascended to heaven, the disciples were told that he would return in the same way they had seen him go. 3) Charles Gardner with his wife, Linda.
Charles Gardner with his wife LindaAbout the writer: Charles Gardner is a veteran Cape Town-born British journalist working on plans to launch a new UK national newspaper reporting and interpreting the news from a biblical perspective. With his South African forebears having had close links with the legendary devotional writer Andrew Murray, Charles is similarly determined to make an impact for Christ with his pen and has worked in the newspaper industry for more than 41 years. Part-Jewish, he is married to Linda, who takes the Christian message around many schools in the Yorkshire town of Doncaster. Charles has four children and eight grandchildren. Charles can be reached by phone on +44 (0) 1302 832987, or by e-mail at chazgardner@btinternet.com
Note: If you would like to help support the ASSIST News Service, please go to www.assistnews.net  and click on the DONATE button to make you tax-deductible gift (in the US), which will help us continue to bring you these important stories. If you prefer, you can make a check out to ASSIST and mail it to PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609, USA.
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GODSPEED

GODSPEED, an Epic Biblical Rock Opera, will hit the stage of the historic El Portal Theatre, North Hollywood, August 21-23
By Dan Wooding, Founder of ASSIST Ministries and the ASSIST News Service
IMG 0468NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA (ANS – July 12, 2015) – GODSPEED, an original rock opera written and produced by talented Christian rock musician, Sammy Oriti, will get its LA area premier at The El Portal Theatre in the Noho Arts District, North Hollywood, CA, from August 21st through 23rd.
The much-awaited show is being presented by Galpin Ford (www.galpin.com) , the number one volume dealer in the world and a major part of the Los Angeles economy, along with the historic El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood.
GODSPEED is a theatrical stage production in the style of a rock opera, complete with singers and dancers portraying in song the gospel of Jesus Christ through Biblical characters including: Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, John the Baptist, Mary Magdalene, and more.
“The rock musical is composed lyrically from scripture without deviating from the holy text,” Sammy Oriti told the ASSIST News Service. “It is appropriate for all walks of life, and Christian denominations, with a running time of 90 minutes.”
He added: “The production is presented live on stage complete with a six-piece progressive band, cast of 22 actors, digital projections bringing to life key characters of the New Testament to the stage in song and dance, and a powerful combination of visual and musical performances.”
The performances will take place at The El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood’s Noho Arts District. For tickets, go to: www.elportaltheatre.com.
The Story:
IMG 1118Written and produced by Sammy Oriti, GODSPEED is an original work that began to form in Oriti’s mind many years ago after retiring from his 1980’s career as a Bruce Springsteen impersonator. After three years of touring the East Coast and, after only 90 days of settling in Los Angeles to pursue the Hollywood dream, Oriti found God and turned his talents toward heaven.
With just one phone call to Brad Boeckmann, of the Boekmann family who owns Galpin Ford, Oriti met with and presented his vision to Boeckmann who personally funded the recordings currently available free on the GODSPEED website.
Oriti said that the next 20 years were spent knocking on doors, seeking concert promoters and Broadway-knowledgeable supporters who knew how to set up a great show.
“With the advent of the faith-based entertainment movement, as we have seen in Film and TV, GODSPEED - A Rock Opera, became attractive to investors and producers,” he said.
Forming a partnership called 70x7 Films with entrepreneur and philanthropist Richard G. Stewart, GODSPEED took on administrative personnel and a production team and brought Oriti’s 25-year vision to concert promoters and church leaderships to tour GODSPEED in the Faith Based arena.
Visit www.godspeedrockopera.com for your free soundtrack download available for a limited time.
About Richard G. Stewart:
When Entrepreneur Richard G. Stewart, business expert and founder of Help Worldwide first met wih Oriti, they were discussing, with a group of executives, a potential venture at Oriti’s TV Studio. When Oriti heard Stewart mention that “he only wanted to do what God wants him to do,” he knew they had similar goals.
The next morning, the two met for breakfast in Burbank where Stewart explained how abundantly God had blessed him in business and how he desired to spread his blessings by helping others worldwide to glorify of God. Wide-eyed, Oriti explained his 20-year journey with GODSPEED and his vision of its fruition. Stewart agreed it was something he believed God was calling him to be part of, and the two formed 70x7 Films, LLC to produce GODSPEED and venture faith-based projects. (www.richardgstewart.com).
About Tim Storey, Life Coach & Motivational Speaker:
Tim Storey (www.timstorey.com),  who USA Today calls the “Pastor to the Stars”, will be speaking and hosting GODSPEED on the opening night, Friday August 21 at 8PM, at The El Portal. Storey is a life advisor to entertainers and the world’s leading entrepreneurs. Quincy Jones has called him “The world’s voice of inspiration”, while Oprah Winfrey shared her fondness for his work when she interviewed him on her award-winning show, “Super Soul Sunday.”
Back in 1992, a group of individuals believing in the power of possibilities, gathered together with Tim Storey and eventually started what has become known as “The Hollywood Bible Study”. Over the years, thousands of industry professionals and friends gathered monthly to be inspired and encouraged. The program has been successful in small, intimate gatherings in homes across the world from Beverly Hills to Miami, and from New York to Stockholm, and Johannesburg. He has spoken in large arenas and at crowded sessions in the Mondrian Hotel, Wyndham Bel Age, and the Hyatt-Andaz West Hollywood. It was at the Bel Age in Beverly Hills in 1994 when Oriti attended Storey’s meetings and was encouraged to “pull down a miracle” and follow the vision God gave him – thus began the progression of GODSPEED.
“It is an ongoing and amazing journey,” says Oriti. “God sets divine appointments. Twenty years ago, I was praying at Tim’s gatherings for favor from above, and now with Tim hosting our opening night, my cup runneth over!”
Storey’s industry Bible Study meets at East West Studios in Hollywood, and Oriti and Storey are now discussing an opportunity that has arisen to bring GODSPEED to a 10,000 seat area in Manila, Philippines.
Tim Storey will be speaking and hosting GODSPEED on its opening night, Friday August 21, at 8PM at The El Portal.
Oriti told ANS that proceeds of proceeds of ticket sales will benefit ministries, and one is Saving Innocent Ministries, and Amber Davies, who heads it up, will be speaking on Saturday, August 22, at both 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Saving Innocence is an advocate for youth ranging in ages from 11-17 who are rescued within Los Angeles County. Advocacy for each child begins with crisis intervention and includes support through full restoration. For youth who had nowhere to turn for help, Saving Innocence has coordinated services to meet each child’s mental health and medical needs, assist with aftercare placement, provide support to the child and family. (www.savinginnocence.org).
Another group to benefit will be the 168 Film Project, and is founder, John David Ware, will speak on Sunday, August 23, at 3:00 PM.
Founded in 2003, the 168 Film Project started as a ministry to local Southern California filmmakers has expanded to a worldwide movement and is now incubator for writers and filmmakers to explore scripture and to practice their craft. The 168 Film Project challenge to filmmakers to draw a random scripture and in just 168 hours (7 days) shoot and edit a short film. But most importantly, filmmakers are encouraged to honestly portray the tale that God inspires through the foundational scripture. (www.168film.com).
Also on display will be Michelangelo’s Pietà. The Vatican-approved recreation of Michelangelo’s Pietà, made from the original mold cast in 1934, will be on display throughout GODSPEED’s premiere at The El Portal Theatre. Photo opportunities with the historic masterpiece will be available to patrons. Arte Divine, founded by David Newren, has cast Michelangelo’s St. Peter’s Pietà using a Vatican-authorized mold of the original Carrara marble sculpture housed in The Basilica of St. Peter, Vatican City, Rome. – The Pietà is truly a masterwork that demands to be witnessed in all its monumental glory. (www.artedivine.com).
Prince Lorenzo De Medici Presents at Godspeed Premiere
Prince Lorenzo de Medici resides in Rome, Italy and is a direct descendant and heir to Italy’s famous Medici Dynasty who were patrons of Michelangelo Bounarroti. He is the son of Alessandro de Medici and his wife, Krystyna, who live in Calabria, Italy. Prince Lorenzo has interest in the arts, charity work, and family causes and is pursuing a political career. Together with Arte Divine, Prince Lorenzo will be presenting Michelangelo’s “La Pietà” recreated from the Vatican-housed original mold and his own original Renaissance inspired artworks.
“Don’t miss your photo opportunity with the Prince and the Pietà at the GODSPEED premiere August 21st – 23rd, 2015,” says Sammy Oriti.
The GODSPEED El Portal Sound Upgrade
Designed and installed specifically for the GODSPEED premiere, Oriti consulted Jeff Coombs, a high-end audio expert, to demo a top of the line Ambisonic Sound System able to support the amount of singers and musicians featured in the rock opera.
“Clarity is most important when there are 16 singers in a show,” says Oriti, “and Ambisonic’s proven superiority in this area won us over when we tested the Line Arrays in the El Portal. There was maybe a 2db volume difference from the first three rows to the last three3 rows of the theatre.”
Above all, Coombs says, “It’s about delivering the ultimate audio experience to the audience”.
Coombs, Founder of Ambisonic Systems, with more than 40 years’ experience, specializing in high-end loudspeaker design, is renowned in the industry for his innovative concepts and products. He will be on site at The El Portal during Godspeed to answer questions specifically from Church Leadership on configuring systems affordably provide heavenly sound. (http://ambisonicst.com).
For tickets for GODSPEED, A Rock Opera, go to www.elportaltheatre.com.
For Media Inquiries and interviews, please contact Christie Locke, (661) 286-4334 or clocke@helpww.com.
Photo captions: 1) A performance of GODSPEED. 2) Sammy Oriti with a couple of friends. 3) Dan and Norma Wooding with rock keyboard legend, Rick Wakeman, about whom Dan has released his authorized biography and is seen holding it here.
Dan and Norma with Rick Wakeman bookAbout the writer: Dan Wooding, 74, is an award-winning author, broadcaster and journalist who was born in Nigeria of British missionary parents, and is now living in Southern California with his wife Norma, to whom he has been married for nearly 52 years. They have two sons, Andrew and Peter, and six grandchildren who all live in the UK. He is the author of some 45 books, and was a rock critic when he worked in the national press in the UK.
Note: We offer you our stories for free, but if you would like to help support the ASSIST News Service, please go to www.assistnews.net  and click on the DONATE button to make you tax-deductible gift (in the US), which will help us continue to bring you these important stories. If you prefer, you can make a check out to ASSIST and mail it to PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609, USA.
** You may republish this or any of our ANS stories with attribution to the ASSIST News Service (www.assistnews.net).
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Are You Living Life as Usual?

Are You Living Life as Usual? (Writer's Opinion)
By Carol Round, Special to ASSIST News Service
CLAREMORE, OK (ANS – July 10, 2015) --  “Always be joyful. Always keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus”—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (TLB).
In a recent discussion of 1 Thessalonians in our Sunday school class, one of our members, referencing chapter 5, verses 16-18 made the following statement: “Until our family was faced with cancer, we did life as usual. I’m actually grateful, not for the cancer, but that it changed our lives.”
Pain, disappointment, heartache and other challenges in our lives are sometimes the motivating factor in seeking salvation or in our spiritual growth. Jesus reminds us in John 16:33 that “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Storm damage Carol RoundUnexpected crises are a part of life. They are like storms blowing through, destroying property and lives and leaving in its aftermath a mess. I’ve read or heard more than one pastor say, “At this moment you are in one of three storm categories; either you just came out of one, or you are in one right now, or you are headed into one.”
In an article titled “God Really Does Have a Purpose Behind your Problems,” Dr. Richard J. Krejcir, wrote, “God does not look upon trouble as we do. Where we see stress he sees opportunities. Where we see crisis, He sees growth and betterment. God's purpose in times of crisis and trouble is to teach His children precious lessons. They are intended to educate, and build us up. And when we learn from them and ride out these storms of life, we will see the great promise fulfilled. His glorious recompense will come to us throughout eternity.
"We need to see the joy and opportunities through times of problems. Because we will learn that there is a sweet and wonderful joy we can have here too. We do not have to wait until Heaven. We can learn to make our life joy-filled by seizing the crisis and growing from it—to become the person we are capable of being for our benefit and His glory.”
We can’t hide nor escape from life’s pain, disappointment and heartache, but we can be better prepared for anything that comes our way in the future. Just like we prepare for the storms of nature, we must make a conscious decision to grow spiritually.
First, we must want to grow. It’s not enough to show up for church each Sunday morning. It’s not about doing more for God. It’s about seeking a personal relationship with Him.
Attending worship services is important, but committing to reading and studying scripture—both individually and in small group studies—is key. Sometimes, however, we lose our zeal, reaching a level of maturity and then stagnate, satisfied with our level of growth.
Living life as usual doesn’t prepare us for the storms—and they will come—it’s just a matter of when. Are you living life as usual or do you seek to grow and prepare before the next storm blows through?
Photo captions:  1) Storm damage. 2) Carol Round.
Carol Round portrait useI always love hearing from my readers. Please feel free to email me at carol@carolaround.com. For more inspiration, check out my blog at www.carolaround.com.
Note: We at ANS offer you our stories for free, but if you would like to help support the ASSIST News Service, please go to www.assistnews.net and click on the DONATE button to make you tax-deductible gift (in the US), which will help us continue to bring you these important stories. If you prefer, you can make a check out to ASSIST and mail it to PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609, USA.
** You may republish this or any of our ANS stories with attribution to the ASSIST News Service (www.assistnews.net).
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How to Get Blessings to Flow


How to Get Blessings to Flow

“Noah… did all that God commanded him.”
GENESIS 6:22 ESV

I spent many years creating and executing my own plans, asking the Lord to bless them. One day I understood that instead of always trying to get the Lord to bless what I wanted to do, it was much simpler to find out what the Lord wanted to bless, and simply do THAT. Instead of trying to get God to come down to my level and do what I wanted, it was far better to come onto the Lord’s ground and do what He wanted.
Great synergy and blessing is released when we simply cooperate with what God has already purposed to do. Heaven backs us up with tremendous power and authority. Instead of trying to make something happen, I simply flow in a current that already exists. The Lord will deny no request that is in agreement with what He Himself has originated.
Source: The Church in the Wilderness by Chip Brogden

See as I See


See as I See

It's time for you to change your view my child. You have been looking at everything that is happening in your life from a close perspective. It's time for you to get into my presence and allow me to lift you up high above your circumstances. Come, and climb on my wings so I can carry you far above the clouds.
Once you are there, you will see everything from my point of view and you will be able to make the right decisions. For when you are too close, you can sometimes not see clearly. Trust in me my child and just allow me to show you what I have for you.
Take a step back, fall into my arms and let me carry you. Trust in me and then draw from my wisdom. As you do, you will see everything fall into place, says the Lord.

All Things are Possible for You


All Things are Possible for You

You have power inside of you. There is nothing that you cannot do or overcome, my child. I have given you the sword and the spirit of a warrior and an overcomer.
So stand strong and know that the land before you is yours to take. It does not matter if you feel capable or not, it does not matter if you have all the answers, my child.
If I have promised it to you, it is yours for the taking.
So stand strong and keep moving forward. Do not give up what you have set your eyes on. As you take a step forward in faith, so I will back you up every time. With every move that you make in faith, so I will be there to fill in the gaps for you. What you lack, I will cover. What weakness you have, I will fill it with my strength.
Do not deter from the goal that I have set before you, but know that you are not on this journey alone. Indeed, I have placed you on this road and therefore, I will see you through. Pick up your sword and stand strong and know that all things are possible.
Together, my child, we will conquer many battles and gain much land. Together with me, you will see many promises come to pass. So take my hand and know that you are not on this journey by yourself. Indeed, you have yet to see the best things that I have in store for you. Amen.

His Beliefs Sent Him to Prison

His beliefs sent him to prison. His faith set him free.
Share the International Best-Seller Tortured for Christ with Your Christian Friends and Family
It's Free.
Pastor Richard Wurmbrand spent years in a Romanian prison cell because he would not deny Christ.
His testimonial book, Tortured for Christ, was refused by publishers for being too condemning of communist governments and too graphic in its descriptions of the horrible atrocities suffered by Christians and others. But as soon as it gained distribution, it became an instant best-seller.
We invite you to prayerfully consider giving this book to anyone who might be encouraged by reading Pastor Wurmbrand's inspirational story. If you do not have a copy of Tortured for Christ, you may also request one for yourself.
 
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Through the Fire


Through the Fire

“I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches,
in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for
Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
2 CORINTHIANS 12:10

Now it does not say that Paul made himself weak on purpose. We do not have to seek weaknesses, infirmities, tribulations, temptations, or trials. We already have them. The key is how do we respond to them? We can fight them, or we can embrace them. Paul clearly shows us that it is not always God’s will for us to be saved FROM the fire. Often we are called to walk THROUGH the fire, with no assurance except that His Grace is sufficient. In the fire we learn that “Grace” is a Man, just like Victory is a Man.
To be delivered from weakness is one thing, but to meet Grace in my weakness is something else entirely.
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden

Finding Grace


Finding Grace

“Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.”
GENESIS 6:8

It took five hundred years of walking with God, but Noah found grace, and that made it all worthwhile. Let us learn to do nothing apart from this amazing grace. It is better to wait five hundred years for grace than to work for five minutes without it.
What is grace? I teach people that Grace is a Man. Amazing Grace is simply Jesus living in me, doing what I cannot do. It does not matter if “what I cannot do” is save myself, overcome sin, love my neighbor, or build an ark. “For by Grace (Jesus) you have been saved through faith (trusting Jesus to do what you cannot do); and that not of yourselves; it (He) is the Gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). I am insufficient; but His Grace (Jesus) is sufficient. His Grace (Jesus) is more than enough. His Grace (Jesus) is Infinite Supply! But “without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden

Knowing Yourself


Knowing Yourself

“I know that in me (that is,
in my flesh) nothing good dwells.”
ROMANS 7:18

Paul knew this because he knew the Cross. Do we know it? Those who embrace the Cross have acknowledged this in themselves and have surrendered their way over to His Way.
In what areas must we acknowledge this inability to do anything apart from Christ? It must not only be acknowledged: it must be truly seen, deeply felt, and painfully experienced in every area of our life, one step at a time. This is the work of the Cross. In our daily life we come up against situations that we cannot overcome in our own strength, or with our own wisdom. We need a strength and a wisdom that comes from Above, that comes from Beyond, that comes from Another outside of us and yet rises up from within us.
Source: Embrace the Cross by Chip Brogden

Victorously Positioned


Victorously Positioned

“He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power.”
EPHESIANS 1:20,21

You will find that the whole strategy of the adversary is to bring you down from your heavenly position in Christ and engage you on a fleshly, carnal, earthly level. To overcome, you need only maintain the ascended position with Christ. We are not trying to get the victory. Instead, we have been made one with Victory. If I enter into a room and sit down in a chair I do not have to wonder how I will enter the room. God has already seated us together with Christ; therefore, we do not have to try to enter in, rise up, or “get” the victory. Having already obtained this triumph through the Cross, we no longer have to attain it in our own strength. The Cross of Christ! What a marvelous provision it is!
Source: Embrace the Cross by Chip Brogden

What Would Jesus Do?


What Would Jesus Do?

“We know that when He is revealed, we shall
be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.”
1 JOHN 3:2

If we are abiding in Him then we will be as He is. If we have put on the Lord Jesus then we are being changed into His likeness, we are being made into His image, and we are in the process of being transfigured.
After some time following the Lord we should not have to stop and ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” If we are being transfigured then that Light and that Life will respond spontaneously and effortlessly to any demand placed upon it.
Source: Lord of All by Chip Brogden