FROM YOUR LIPS TO GOD'S EARS

HE HEARS THE HUMBLE 

Psalms 10: 11-12
He hath said in his heart, God hath forgotten: he hideth his face; he will never see it.
Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up thine hand: forget not the humble.

Are you in a place where you feel like God has forgotten you? Perhaps you feel like He doesn't want you to have what you have asked for or remove what is affecting or hurting you.  

Maybe it's time to do a humility check - 
Take some time and reflect on your behavior, attitude and motive. 
How's your heart?
Do you think you may need a lesson in humility?  Hmm?  

Question: "What does the Bible say about humility?"

Answer:The Bible describes humility as meekness, lowliness and absence of self. The Greek word translated “humility” inColossians 3:12 and elsewhere literally means “lowliness of mind,” so we see that humility is a heart attitude, not merely an outward demeanor. One may put on an outward show of humility but still have a heart full of pride and arrogance. Jesus said that those who are “poor in spirit” would have the kingdom of heaven. Being poor in spirit means that only those who admit to an absolute bankruptcy of spiritual worth will inherit eternal life. Therefore, humility is a prerequisite for the Christian.
Read more:http://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-humility.html#ixzz3bWlMcDXf

TODAY'S FOCUS:  GOD HAS NOT FORGOTTEN THE HUMBLE

God resists the proud, but He will never forget the humble.  Their humility causes God to tune His ears to the desires of their heart.

Psalms 10: 16-17
The Lord is King for ever and ever: the heathen are perished out of his land.
Lord, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear:

He guides and leads the humble - Psalms 25:9
He gives wisdom to the humble - Proverbs 11:2
He gives salvation to the humble - Psalms 149:4
God saves the humble - Job 22:29
Gives more grace to the humble - 1 Peter 5:5

Remember he humble are positioned for blessings, healing and deliverance.
2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV) -  If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.  Even if it may seems so, God will not close His ears to your cries for help if you humble yourself. Humility is a requirement and prerequisite for mercy and favor.  He giveth more grace to the humble and beautifies them with salvation- peace joy love...  Remain humble. Your cries are automatically uploaded from your lips to His ears!   

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel  

CITIZENSHIP

FELLOW CITIZENS

Ephesians 2: 19 (KJV)

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

Today many people migrate from their home country to another country in search of work or a better life for themselves and their family.  While some people maintain dual citizenship, in some cases they give up their right to their country of birth to become a citizen of another land.  After they have received citizenship, they also make a way for their other family members.  

Today's scripture speaks to us who were alienated from the citizenship of heaven. The Jews were the elect and had the only rights to the benefits, but then Jesus came on the scene and through His death and resurrection, created a doorway for us to become one with Him.  We now have all rights, privileges and benefits as they do.  

The question remains, Have you accepted that right? 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  I AM A KINGDOM CITIZEN

Are you still a stranger and a foreigner of the Kingdom?
What prevents you?
What are you afraid to lose or give up?
Who's hindering you?

This citizenship only requires your acceptance to the call of Whosoever Will.  It will require your willingness to give up your rights and attachment to the citizenship of this world.  It's not race or gender based.   There's no questions and answers to memorize, no filling of an application, you don't need to show a bank account, possessions or even have a job.  Here are some of my Benefits as a citizen of the kingdom:

I have all rights and privileges 
I have a royal status and co-heir
24 Hour access to all services
I am known by my name and not a number
My wealth is burglar proof
Full Health insurance and assurance benefits
I have great security coverage - personally and over my home property/family
Great life coverage policy that continues even when I die - I am the beneficiary 
So much more........
__________________ (Add some of yours)

It will cost you NOTHING, Yes, nothing - It's FREE!!!
There's no catch - JESUS PAID IT ALL!!

Remember, For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  Jn 3:16. There no waiting period, but there's a redemption period.  Hurry before it's too late.  
Don't miss out on the opportunity to become one today and help others enjoy the blessings and benefits with you! 

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

BUILT TO LAST

ESTABLISHING THE FOUNDATION

A house ability to stand depends on the foundation it's built upon. If the foundation is strong the house itself will be strong.  If the foundation is weak, the house though it is built with strong and durable materials will fall when adversity strikes.

Ephesians 2:20 (KJV)
And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

To understand today's discussion, let's define the word cornerstone:

By definition the word means -a stone that forms the base of a corner of a building, joining two walls; an important quality or feature on which a particular thing depends or is based.

Take a look at this definition from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


The cornerstone (or foundation stone) concept is derived from the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.

In line with the scripture and meanings above, let's lay the foundation:

We are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets- We must first understand their foundation.  How and by whom they were laid,or built.  

The foundation of the Apostles and Prophets were built with Jesus Christ as the Chief Cornerstone.  

Using the Wikipedia encyclopedia's meaning of a cornerstone being the first stone set in a masonry foundation you can now understand why they were so effective and powerful.  Their foundation was laid on Jesus' teachings, principles and examples. Jesus taught with authority.  He healed the sick, lame and demon possessed. Therefore, the apostles followed because they were joined to the cornerstone as the definition depicts.  This is the important feature that allowed and cause the continuation of the flow of Christ anointing.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  CHECK YOUR FOUNDATION

As you reflect over the discussion above and taking into consideration the meanings let's do a foundation check:

• Are you built on the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets?
• What is the base of your belief, action or characteristics?

• Are you connected or disconnected to the Cornerstone?
• What is the position or condition of your structure?
• Is there enough evidence that indicates that you are?
• What signs indicate that you are not?
• What improvements, maintenance or changes need to be made?

• How do you respond when adversity strikes?
• Does your action show that you are built to last?
• What areas do you need strengthening?
• Do you perhaps need to revisit or re-evaluate your foundation?

• DO YOU HAVE FAITH IN YOUR FOUNDATION
• Do you trust that it will hold you up?
• Can you defend it against the forces?
• Are you ashamed or proud to be a part of it's structure? 
• How can you contribute to it's growth?
•  Are you positioned for others to built upon you?

Know that God has called you to be built upon the already established structure of the Apostles and Prophets where Jesus Christ is the Chief Cornerstone.  No other foundation has He laid that is as solid, proven, tried and powerful as this blueprint. The Master Architect designed and built the structure of His church in such a way that no devil in hell can mess with its design.  No wind of adversity can destroy the structure because it's tied in with the sacrifice He made through Jesus Christ.  That Chief Cornerstone is set so all can be laid upon.  It is a perfect Stone, a Stone that endured suffering, hardship and even death.  Thus we can and are able to last through the trials, temptations and anguish of our construction, building and existing processes.  

Remember, you are built to last because  you are built on a solid foundation.  You are unshakable,  unstoppable, unmovable always abounding in the work of the Lord. You are built to last because your foundation is based on the most important feature of a strong structure- You are tied to the setting of the Cornerstone!

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

BRING TO LIFE

HOW TO REVIVE DEAD THINGS

As the Widow's Fast concludes we are commanded to revive dead things.  

1 Kings 17: 21-23 (KJV)
And he stretched himself upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord, and said, O Lord my God, I pray thee, let this child's soul come into him again.
And the Lord heard the voice of Elijah; and the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived.
And Elijah took the child, and brought him down out of the chamber into the house, and delivered him unto his mother: and Elijah said, See, thy son liveth.

Like the widow woman you can call a thing back to life using the 5 steps below:

Pray About It

Seek God's will and cry out to Him in prayer using the scriptures and reminding Him of what He says for you circumstances or for someone else.  If you are weak and unable to do so for yourself seek out a God fearing man or woman to pray with or over you.  

Revive It 

After you have prayed, revive it and bring it back to life by removing the things that stifle it, restore it, stimulate it and allow it to gain back it's strength.  Drink water and or seek spiritual help from people of strong faith and a prayerful lifestyle. Stay in connection with them until you have gain strength to stay on your own.  Have someone to cover you in prayer.  

Bring it Down 

Don't leave the thing where you carried it or stay in the same position of complacency or remain in the place that reminds you of the past condition. Remove yourself from negativity and or influences that may hurt or bring harm to you. Escape from the coldness of death and areas that cause you to experience famine, drought, thirst and hunger- physically or spiritually.  Go to the place where life flows.  Bring yourself back to the place where God wants to meet with you.  Go take a worship to His house.  Meet with Him in the secret place- Bring it down!

Deliver It

Give it back to God or to its rightful owner.  Maybe it's forgiving someone, or asking for forgiveness.  Maybe it's going back home to your family or perhaps returning a favor that you promised.  It could be that you ran away from purpose or a God given assignment, vision or dream. Deliver on your promise.

Let it Live

Find ways to keep it alive.  Constantly and consistently performing the other steps. Nourishing it and giving it the right dosage.  If it's physical you would exercise, eat healthy, follow your doctor's orders, take supplements/medication, get adequate rest and sleep and do whatever is necessary to allow you to not die but live to declare the glory of God.  If it's spiritual you would keep yourself active in prayer, fasting, meditating and reading of the word, do worship and fellowship with other believers by attending church services. You would also stay active and do something meaningful and or  humanitarian. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  STRETCH YOURSELF

As you reflect on the scripture and discussion above you will see how Elijah responded to the widow's cry for help for her dead son.   He took the child from where he laid and brought him to his own room and laid him on his bed and stretched himself upon him praying and calling out to God on the behalf of the widow and her son.  

As you reflect, is there someone you know that needs to be brought back to life?

Is there a situation that needs to be revived?

How can you stretch yourself to respond to the cry of someone today?

Perhaps you have an extra room that you can open the doors to someone who needs a shelter, stop by and lend a helping hand to a friend who is overwhelmed, take time out from your busy schedule and say a prayer or drop by the hospital and or visit the sick.....

Go ahead stretch yourself in whatever way you can and make a dead thing come to life today.

Remember, to revive a dead thing you must realize that it is dead. Pray for and about it.  Make a conscious effort to stretch yourself to help revive it, and do whatever it takes to remove it from its dead or dry place.  Help restore and deliver it to its original state or owner.  Keep the focus, and concentrate on the things that will cause it to live.  Be vigilant and avoid the things that can cause it to die again. Stretch yourself a little above your limits and as you bless and revive another watch out for God's favor and blessings.

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

REMIND GOD

CALL TO REMEMBRANCE

1 Kings 17:18 (KJV)

And she said unto Elijah, What have I to do with thee, O thou man of God? art thou come unto me to call my sin to remembrance, and to slay my son?

The widow woman called out to the man of God and ask what has she done.  She was wondering if he came to bring back her sins to her remembrance and thus the cause of her son's death.  

It is so easy when you are going through to think that your affliction, struggle or tragedy is a result of your sins.  But today, if you are going through a difficulty or need - call to remembrance what the word says about your circumstances and declare it over your life.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  CONFESS THE WRITTEN WORD

Don't allow your past to block your healing, breakthrough or deliverance, but put God in remembrance of His word.  

Hebrews 10 (KJV)

But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;

THINK BACK - Think about the time when you experienced something that tried your faith or even your first encounter with Christ when He saved you.  You spent a lot of time reading the word finding and confessing scriptures about your situation.  You allowed nothing or anyone to come between your relationship with him or your church attendance, worship and fellowship time until you got your breakthrough.  

Let's discuss...

What are you experiencing today that you need to call God's word to remembrance?

What scripture speaks to your situation?

Do you need to confess any known or hidden sins?

Can you think of a time when you had a breakdown how God delivered you?

Can you use that as a reminder of God's faithfulness?

What are you holding against you?

What are you blaming God or someone -like the widow woman for?

Do you think that your present situation is hopeless?  (why/why not)

Make scripture confession a daily part of your life in every area.  Write cue cards, place notes in prominent places at home, work or in your car to remind yourself of God's promises to you and when you are faced with any difficulties remind God of His word and promise to you.  

Remember, God's word is medicine and an antidote for all maladies. 

Hebrews 10:32 TLB versions states... you should not "

ever forget those wonderful days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you kept right on with the Lord even though it meant terrible suffering."  Nothing or no one stopped you. What God has done in the past, He is capable of doing it again.  Be equipped for  the times and journey ahead.  Confess the word daily even when you don't have a need- prevention is better than cure.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

CODE BLUE

SORE SICKNESS 

"Code Blue" is generally used to indicate a patient requiring resuscitation or in need of immediate medical attention, most often as the result of a respiratory arrest or cardiac arrest.

The widow of Zarephath experienced a code blue with her son after her miraculous encounter with the prophet of God. 

1 Kings 17:17 (KJV)
And it came to pass after these things, that the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, fell sick; and his sickness was so sore, that there was no breath left in him.

Reflecting back on the previous verses we saw the widow giving from her need and as a result of her obedience she experienced and abundant flow of her daily need. However, immediately thereafter she was faced with the sickness of her son.  He was sore sick until there was no breath in him.  

Have you ever experience a breakthrough only to be faced with another dilemma? Imagine she was concerned before of having no more meal to feed herself and her son. Then Elijah shows up, and through taking care of the need of the man of God she and her son were nourished and sustained.  Then the very thing that she was spared from happened when they were in their state of contentment.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  REQUIRING RESUSCITATION

Are you experiencing a code blue?

What has taken the wind out of you?

Like the widow of Zarephath son you may be sore sick after your recent experience of God's blessing.  You may feel like God wants to rob you of the very thing that He has given or promised to you.  It may seem like there is no strength left to fight- the wind is gone out of you.  

If you are, you may require resuscitation- In an emergency whether it is physical or spiritual it would require immediate attention.  

In the natural you would call 911 or get help if you experienced a respiratory or cardiac arrest- This must be done also spiritually.  

Too often Christians allow themselves to go into respiratory arrest spiritually and remain there not allowing themselves to be resuscitated.  Let's discuss:

How can you identify a spiritual code blue?

What are some of the reasons why people experience spiritual code blue?

How can you resuscitate some one who has a spiritual code blue?

What must be done to avoid further arrest?

Remember, it is important to know when the wind is about to go out.  If you are spiritually sore sick whether it is as a result of your actions or as a direct attack of the enemy, being conscious of the sickness will allow you to know that you would require resuscitation and or immediate spiritual attention just as you would be in the natural.  Know that you don't have to be in a desert or in a place of lack for the attack to come.  It can be like the widow when there was plenty- Be sober be vigilant!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

ARISE AND DWELL

NOURISHMENT/SUSTENANCE

After the brook dried up Elijah was given a command that would save His life and the life of the widow and her son.

1 Kings 17: 8-9
And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying,
Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.

Too often  people remain in a place that no longer provides nourishment for their souls and cannot sustain them even when they are given specific instructions to move or extend themselves by God or His messenger.   

Today's Question: Where are you nourished and who sustains you? 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  FOLLOW THE COMMAND

Had Elijah not obeyed the command it could have been very costly. Perhaps with much destruction not just to him but to two other lives.  

Note the following:
It was the word of the Lord 
He had to arise and get to Zarephath
Locate the widow woman
He had to dwell there

It is important to follow specific instructions for the word to be fulfilled.  Elijah could not have gone any other place and chose anyone else.  It had to be the specific widow woman in Zarephath.  

God knew exactly what He was doing, and why He was sending Elijah there.  If you know or read the story it shows that it was not just for the now but for the future.  Elijah had to go there and dwell there as he was nourished and sustain to perform a powerful miracle at a latter time.

Consider this...
Are you nourished and sustained where you are?
Where has God called you to go?
To whom has He sent you?
Are there specific instructions given?

WHAT ARE YOU STILL DOING THERE? - ARISE AND DWELL

Remember, God wants you powered up for what He has for you in the future.  However you must follow the command and instructions He gives. It could mean the saving of your very life or one dear to you. ARISE AND GET THEE TO... Say like Isaiah, Here I am Lord, send me!  

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DRYNESS AND BARRENNESS

DRY SEASON

We are experiencing the heat and dryness of the hot summer months, and because there is no rain, the place is dry and parched from the scorching heat.  The grass withers and becomes brittle, the flowers are drooping and the fruit trees are dropping their fruits.  Life has a way of letting us experience such dryness and barrenness.  

We are embarking on The Widow's Fast this month and the purpose is to meet the humanitarian needs of others.  If you have ever experienced a dry season you will understand what it's like to be be hungry physically or spiritually.  That should also give you a good feel of the reality of life of those who are less fortunate within your church, community and territory. You will know that it brings on a feeling of hopelessness and in some cases you may not even be aware of your surroundings. 

In his book, Fasting For Spiritual Breakthrough, Elmer Towns states, “Wherever we look, we find people in need. The hungry and homeless are under our bridges, on our streets and beyond our borders. It seems there are always more people in need than resources to meet that need.” 

Jesus has asked that we consider the poor among us, and be considerate of others. It's that sense of identity that causes us to corporately come together to fulfill - Isaiah 58:7

Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Isaiah 58:7 KJV)

How about joining us on our journey for Ten Times More?  

Ask yourself....

"What significant humanitarian needs are felt by people in your church and community?"  (Make a list of those individuals and their needs so you can pray and perform humanitarian acts to) 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SPIRITUAL DROUGHT 

"And it came to pass after a while, that the brook dried up, because there had been no rain in the land."  1 Kings 17:7

While there are many homeless and others who are in physical need, there are so many who are experiencing spiritual drought.  They go through the motions, and while it appears that they are well watered on the outside, they are dry and barren from within.  They may even go to church, perform their duties and responsibilities but yet feel so empty.   Their souls long for God's glory.  They long for a fresh word, anointing or another touch.  They wander and wonder in isolation even though they are in a crowd.  They tend to escape with substitutes and junk foods, but nothing quenches their thirst or satisfies their hunger.                                                                 

Do you know someone who is in this position or are you there yourself? 

Has your brook dried up?

Are you parched from the lack of spiritual nourishment?

Come to The Waters - Isaiah 55:1 (KJV)

Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

Let's discuss the following:

• What are some of the signs that indicate spiritual drought or dryness? 
• What are some of the reasons that can cause spiritual drought?
• What are some of the results of long-term drought/dryness?
• What are some things that can be done to replenish?

Remember, it is important to be nourished from the wellspring of the Word to maintain your moisture.  Dryness and barrenness bring despair, anxiety and other ills.  You must be fortified in order to nourish others.  Drink often from the water of life so you can sing....

Hallelujah I have found Him, Whom my soul so long have craved

Jesus satisfies my longing, through His blood I now am saved

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

THE PROBLEM WITH MONEY

MONEY IS NOT THE ISSUE

The problem with money is that money is not the issue.

But the love of money is...

1 Timothy 6:10

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

You may ask, why is it evil?

• How you may want to get 
• What you may compromise for it
• Who you may have to give up or choose between

How eager you are for it may be the first step and doorway to all types of sins.  

The pursuit of money through the eyes of covetousness, envy, greed and any other means outside of its proper usage is from a discontented spirit.  If one is content and satisfied with their lives or more so with their position in Christ they will not fall into the lusts and sorrows that comes with the evil disclosed in the scripture above.  

These behaviors come with a price tag and can result in many ills. Sleeplessness, stress, disorders, physical and mental illness and spiritual emptiness etc...

Many people have left God to pursue money, and at the end even if they found their pot of gold are still empty and NEED GOD!  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  MONEY TROUBLES

What do you suppose is the root cause of all the money troubles? Are there any just reasons?

Let's view today's focus from the TLB version of verses 6-10
6 Do you want to be truly rich? You already are if you are happy and good. 7 After all, we didn’t bring any money with us when we came into the world, and we can’t carry away a single penny when we die. 8 So we should be well satisfied without money if we have enough food and clothing. 9 But people who long to be rich soon begin to do all kinds of wrong things to get money, things that hurt them and make them evil-minded and finally send them to hell itself. 10 For the love of money is the first step toward all kinds of sin. Some people have even turned away from God because of their love for it, and as a result have pierced themselves with many sorrows.

CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS
What is your view of being rich?
What does riches consist of?
Is money a big or important part of it?
What do you think the word is trying to say in verse 8?
What are some of the wrong things that people do to achieve money?
What are some of the results (sorrows) that some are facing from wrong pursuit?

Remember as you reflect on the scripture and your answers, know that money itself is not evil and is used for many good things.  Missions and humanitarian acts are benefited by it.  However, money has created and wrecked havoc in many homes, churches, friendship/relationships and has been used in many criminal activities.  Take heed how you pursue to achieve the things that money can buy; avoid the piercings of sorrow that tags along with it; watch how it affects your relationship with God!

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

OUR DAILY BREAD

A SIMPLE PRAYER

Give us this day our daily bread - Matthew 6:11 (KJV)

This simple prayer was part of the model prayer Jesus introduced to His disciples when they asked Him how they should pray.  

Many believe as those back then that repetitive prayers and other formulas are what gets the attention of our Heavenly Father.  We are admonish that we should not pray as the heathens do.

“Don’t recite the same prayer over and over as the heathen do, who think prayers are answered only by repeating them again and again. Remember, your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! (Matthew 6:7-8 TLB)

Although your heavenly Father knows your need, you must ask for your daily provisions.  It's like your children, you know what they need and you probably have already stored up their provisions for the entire week.  But isn't it a fact that you want them to ask before they touch anything or whenever they get hungry? 

Also how do you feel when you have already dished out their portion and they keep asking and nagging you about it?  

So is your Heavenly Father.  Your daily bread has already been stored and prepared. You live under an open Heaven where the storehouse of heaven is open towards you every day. You don't need to go in circles or repeat any specific chants but simply ask, Lord, give me this day my daily bread.   

Don't ask for tomorrow, don't think of what you didn't get yesterday- just simply ask for what you need for today.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  TODAY'S PROVISIONS

Thinking of the message above, should your daily bread consist of just a physical request?  

It's likely to see the need of the flesh in this scripture and neglect the fact that you need a daily spiritual portion.  How about including a spiritual request with that simple prayer format?  What would your request be like?

It would appear that the same analogy with a child asking for their daily need would apply here spiritually.  You should ask God for your spiritual provision for balance and or to avoid spiritual malnutrition.  

Let's think about these for a moment...

Many people are waiting on God for things that He has already given to them

Some are waiting for Him to give them things that they have never ask for

Others are contemplating what to ask or wonder if He can afford or give them their requests

As you analyze and ponder, in which category do you see yourself? (give reasons)

Remember, while God has already made provisions and know all of your needs, you must ask to receive.  Just as you want to give good gifts to your children, your Heavenly Father is more willing to give to you if you would just ask.  When you pray for your daily bread, ask the Lord also for His word for the day for you.  Ask Him what He wants you to feed on today.  Ask Him for the word that you might need to nourish, strengthen and help you face the task or battle of the day.  He is your Provider and although He knows what you need, you must ask.  

Ask and you shall receive - pressed down, shaken together and running over!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

 

CAUTION ELDERS

A WORD TO THE ELDERS

In the book of 1 Peter 5 verses 1-4, Peter gives an exhortation to the elders of the church. He spoke from that same position of familiarity stating that he also was an elder. Not only from that standpoint but from the fact that he was a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

He saw and witnessed first hand the qualities from a true and greatest Leader what it means to serve.  

Here's the advise he gives:  (Share your thoughts)

Feed the flock of God 
Care for it willingly and not grudgingly or what you will get out of it
Be eager to serve the Lord
Don't be tyrants
Lead by a good example

He further advises them to do so that when the chief Shepherd comes their reward will be never ending and they will share in His glory!  

This may be difficult for many who believe that a position of authority is only limited to a position of power.  They feel that they must be paid for everything they do or before they can do anything.  Some will not serve if they are not paid and have an upfront cost before they would even consider serving.  

BREAKING NEWS - YOU CANNOT SERVE FROM A RAISED POSITION!  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SERVING UNDER AUTHORITY

As equally as it is to adhere to the advise above is the ability to serve surrendering to authority.   There is too much arrogance among leaders.  Particular  between the younger and the elder.  Who's smarter, intelligent, more equipped, qualified etc.... 

Let's take a look at a few more verses.  Although directed to the younger leaders it is a model for the young and elder alike.  

1 Peter 5:5,6

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Let's do a spirit check....

How difficult it is for you to surrender to those in authority?

What does it mean to be clothed or serve with humility?

You must always consider that w

hen you submit to the authority of your leaders... 

you submit to God.

Most people can only serve when they are in charge, and are not humble to serve under others.  If they are not the boss or the one giving the orders they refuse to serve. The control must be theirs, but they forget that they serve as unto the Lord and not to themselves.  Thus the model for verses 1-4.  

These types seek their gratification and satisfaction from others and from this life.  It's more like "what's in this for me" position and not "what can I do to help"? When ask to serve self questions are ask first like... 

How much? (how much money will they be able to make for their pockets)

How many people?  (some cannot serve unless they are seen by a large crowd)

Some are "know it alls" who will not follow a theme or protocol but wants to execute their own agenda to their profit. 

Their track record and background are shady and their integrity questionable.  They serve as tyrants and Pharaohs, chest beaters with the "I syndrome" mentality.  they refuse to submit and have respect and honor for others.  They boast in their gains and self accomplishments and give no credit to God or others who have helped them to establish themselves.  

GOD HATES THOSE WHO ARE PROUD IN HIS OR HER OWN SELF

Remember, "God gives special blessings to the humble but sets Himself against those who are proud."  Serve in your leadership role (not just to pastors/ministers), as being servant of the Most High God.  Submit to each other.  Don't worry about the present reward because at the right time God will exalt you.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel