“Hear what the spirit is saying to those who have an ear to hear.” Rev. chapters 2-3 (please read all)
The description of hearing with your heart is valid and vital for all that know what it is to be a part of the family of God. For those that are yet to become a part of His family, hunger and need must be created and that starts in the heart.
There is great opposition that test and tries an unguarded heart. It is time we prioritize the heart of God in our lives for keeping Him as our first love.
Do we really know and care about the danger of putting our heart’s agenda first as the standard of learning? We hear with our ears, but we listen with our hearts. Are we listening to what the Spirit is saying?
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green takes a look at a great book by Dr. Caroline Leaf entitled, “Who Switched Off My Brain” giving us some insight into the mystery of our brain function.
An intriguing book by a Christian doctor describing how God formed us to function in easy to read format. Many drawings and illustrations to further simplify each chapter. Science with applicational simplicity.
Many people who do not understand the battles they fight, found with clarity and new confidence, a smooth path in thinking that is available to those who want to understand how to keep a healthy brain, resulting in a healthy body.
When the body is functioning the way God designed it to be life takes on a new luster and the Spirit can be at ease within us for His leading.
A beautiful combination of spiritual foundation with science agreeing. “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” 2 Corinthians 10:5.
“To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of the mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27
When Christ walked here, He came to set up His Divine order on how to walk in the newness of life. “Old things are passed away, behold, all things are new.” Change is scary and understanding needs the Spirit working in us.
Today’s discussion reveals how to redeem the time for the days that are evil.
So, join in the conversation to explore with us insights into making fruitful this Time of Transition.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green takes a look at 100 Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart By Robert Morgan.
Because, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Why? 1 Peter tells us “that we have been given great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world.”
Here we have the purpose, the power, and the plan for discovering what the mind of God is for His children in knowing Him. There is nothing that can still our hearts and mind, giving quiet confidence and drawing us into His presence as hiding the promises of God within our soul.
As a child of God, we want to grow up and become disciples (learners) that desire to sit at His feet and learn of Him. In memorizing the promises we can be pleasing to His heart and His Word brings life, comfort and hopes to us. Take some time to focus on the promises of God and in communion with Him, ask that they are made real in your life.
“Yet once more I shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” Hebrews 12: 26-28
Hebrews Chapter Twelve:
Verse 26 – We are living in a time when we are all shaken up. Our nation has adopted a lifestyle of indulgence from the gift of being a blessed nation of material wealth.
Verse 27 – Although the ultimate shaking is still future we are feeling the tremors and rumblings of the approaching destruction. Are we preparing?
Verse 28 – If we continue to choose abusing grace, and living without a godly fear
The warning is that our God is a consuming fire. He will purify the pollution of this world.
Today, we are digging into these verses to examine what they mean for us for the time in which we live.
So join in the conversation as we reflect on why this is coming and find out if there is hope for survival from this Great Shaking?
“All those whom I love I correct and discipline. Therefore, shake off your complacency and repent.” Revelation 3:20
We are living in the days of apostasy as the church at Laodicea did. Sliding down the slippery slopes unto destruction does not happen overnight. It can develop by simply wanting to enjoy the good life of comfort and ease and we start to neglect the virtue of being diligent in holding fast to our First Love – Jesus Christ.
Today, we reflect on the warnings given to the Church of Laodicea and how we can take heed to those warnings.
So join in the conversation as we discuss the dangers of Living a Lukewarm Life in these perilous times and the accompanying consequences.
Today on the Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green takes a look at Limiting God by John Hunter.
The phrase “Failure is the back door to success” certainly has merit. Do words like fearfulness, selfishness, unbelief, failure, pride, laziness, ignorance, immaturity ever cross your mind as you stop and have conversations with yourself about how you wish you did not have to do battle with these patterns in your thought life? You know the Word says to bring every thought captive, but when swimming with strokes of repetitive thinking, these words have developed into lifestyles of living. So, really what is the harm if you are just coping?
The main reason this way of living should not remain dominant is that without change your life will be LIMITING GOD in all that you do. We have been given precious promises for living an abundant life now. Stopping short of that goal pulls us into fake and false thinking as an acceptable standard for who we really are as children of God. This in turn robs us of the joy, peace, calm, contentment, and an inability to grow in grace and knowledge, having Christ formed in you, with waging war against the enemy that Jesus Christ defeated on the Cross. It is the fruit of blessing when our walk and talk are consistent and others can benefit from our testimony.
The Old Testament examples are given to help us see and understand the New Testament principles and how they can be applied.
Limiting God is an analysis of Christian failure with the sure answer for success in Christ.
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 3:8
Peter is not telling us we must agree on non-essential in daily living. Peter did tell us how to avoid divisions in the Body of Christ. Our hearts must be of one accord and Jesus Christ as our ALL and All. Join us today as we share how we can be deceived by little issues that can grow into major differences keeping our hearts focused on our old paths, dividing when we should be uniting. Make sure you are not demanding your rights, your truth as your foundation, because it is the heart that matters.
“To him who overcomes will I grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” Revelation 3:21
Some think overcoming is just a one-time event that came with salvation so why do we need to keep overcoming? Because there is an urgent need for us to learn to live the reigning life (eternity) NOW, so to the degree that we reign as an overcomer NOW, we shall be prepared to reign in actuality – forever. All of us are all called to be overcomers – not just a select few.
So join in the conversation as we discuss the call to all overcomers and examine the decline of devotion to the person of Jesus Christ that begins in the heart.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green examines “Learn the Bible in 24 Hours” by Chuck Missler.
The New Translation in Everyday English expresses 11 Timothy 3:16 as follows: All Scripture is breathed out by God and useful for teaching, for conviction, for correction and for disciplined training in righteousness, in order to make the man of God adequate, and fully to equip him for every good task. This is the heavenly solution for our earthly problems. However, to be able to use this precious resource we need to be in the Word and a student of discipline study to glean all that is available to us, NOW.
Proverbs 3:5-7 gives us sound advise to Trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not unto our own understanding, but in ALL our ways acknowledge Him and he shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.
What joyful exhortations we are given to make our center of reading and study the Word of God. Chuck Missler has combined decades of personal living in the good times and not so good times to provide us with a tool that short cuts years of random searching into a detailed outline giving us a foundation to move forward with knowledge of what is taking place from Genesis to Revelation.
Today’s recap from Ginger Green will draw the hungry heart and seeking soul into an expanding world often gone unnoticed by most. Learn the Bible in 24 hours has a study guide, workbook and videos to start a home study or study within your church. If we claim ignorance or indifference to digging into the Bible, we will find that we are the loser and our lack of discipline may impact ours and others destiny. That should never be the case when such a great resource as this is available to us. Thank you, Chuck, for a life that fought the good fight, finished the race, and shares in the Eternal Glory of our Triune God for all Eternity!!!
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Revelation 3:22
Today on Sharin’ Hearts Woman to Woman, Janie and Sharon discuss the difficulties that we face in society every day. Life is hard and challenging even at its best, but the Lord has made a way for us all.
When our goal is to be well pleasing to the Father we are sometimes met with obstacles that obstruct fulfilling the life of an Overcomer. However, the Lord has made a way of escape.
Join in the conversation as we dig into the Scriptures to be enlighten to the way of victory for Overcoming the world.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green digs into The Prayer Life By Charles Usher.
The question at hand isn’t about how many people prayed daily, but how many people truly understand biblical teaching and perspective on prayer. Because if we are truly serious about spiritual growth, about deepening our relationship with Christ… Prayer must be assigned the highest priority!
So, come be a part as we join author Charles Usher in a discussion of the prayer life and how to live it, with a concentration on spiritual warfare in his book, The Prayer Life. This is a small book perhaps 50 pages yet filled with immense truth and practicality. The topics Usher addresses include: hindrances to prayer, equipment for warfare, the prayer of faith, perseverance in prayer, and prayers for nations, homes, and circumstances; for Scripture tells us to, “watch and pray.”
The Prayer Life by Charles Usher is currently out of print and can be found online only in very limited quantities. If you are unable to locate a copy and are interested in adding The Prayer Life to your library of Christian resources, please contact The Fireside Book Shelf through our home page and we can assist you in obtaining a reprint of this timeless work.
“Reproach has broken my heart, and I am full of heaviness: I looked for someone to take pity, there was none, and for comforters, but I found none.” Psalms 69:20
Cries of pain from the body, soul, and spirit can hit us like a storm when we are attacked by overwhelming circumstances or trauma in torn relationships. Questions as to WHY scream in our agony. How do we handle what appears to be impossible to solve and are there any solutions? Where do I go?
STOP! Get Still and listen as there is HOPE, REMEDIES, and a way to find LIGHT at the end of the dark tunnel.
“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57
This victory is offered to all who are willing to pay the price to obtain the position of an Overcomer.
Yes, as believers, we have overcome death and condemnation through the victory of Christ’s Cross – we then are responsible to be the Overcomer making known His Light to our darkened world in our daily walk
The benefits are truly “out of this world” wonderful!
So, join in the conversation and find the victory of being an overcomer.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green grabs a favorite; “When You’re Tired of Treating the Symptoms, and You’re Ready for a Cure, Give Me a Call” by Dr. Henry Brandt. We search for relief from our problems, instead of searching for a cure. Anything that will achieve temporary rest from anger, fear, frustration, unforgiveness, and bitterness. It is a repetitive cycle of survival and we become addicted to the short-term escape.
There is a long-term cure and the first step of “cure” is to SEE your need in the problem, call it what it truly is and ACCEPT the need as your wake-up call for change. The word for this process is repentance; to turn from the old thinking, emotions, and actions. Repentance consists of confession of sin and submission to the authority of Jesus Christ. Because of God’s cleansing grace, healing comes. Learning to see the need and not excusing with some popular modality is a big part of the challenge. Follow Dr. Brandt through the maze of not treating the symptoms, but finding the real cure.
“For the hearts of these people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes have closed.” Act 28:27
It is easy to grow dull to the needs of others when all is going great in our own life. In the ease of our comfort we can grow disinterested in those heading for hell, we focus on laying up treasures for our retirement and become casual about the consequences of sin in our lives. It is important that we remain diligent in discipline in every stage so that we are continuing in the work of the Lord.
Today we will discuss some fleshly traits blind us and find out how to remain steadfast in our walk so that we don’t fail to redeem the time for the days are evil.
So, join in the conversation as we learn more Lessons from Laodicea.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts:The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green discusses the book Waiting on God by Andrew Murray
Waiting on God is an important part of worship. It is becoming a lost art in our daily lives as our culture tells us we must always be busy; whether in earning a living, serving in a ministry, raising a family to the dictates of our society.
Quietness, in today’s pop thinking, is mainly for the sick, elderly, or seeking solitude just long enough to recharge our batteries to be on the go at breakneck speed.
People complain about being emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, overworked, overloaded, overstressed, but continue the rat race instead of the stable quiet pace for true rest and renewal. It is our choice no matter how we deny it.
The tragic end of life news blares at us each day about the famous, desperate youth, leaders from every walk of life, saying they have lost purpose and hope for anything more and life is empty.
“Those who know Your name will put their trust in You, For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.” Psalms 9:10
Having no one you can turn to in difficult and painful times leaves us fearful, full of dread, and doubting if anyone cares. That can include God and WHO He is. We have grown accustomed to seeing our support and needs to be met. Having to rely on faith in the unseen can really be scary if we do not know our Source of strength. Knowing your Heavenly Provider is more important than even knowing your earthly provider when it comes to insurance here on earth.
We discuss what it takes to know your God of all comfort and how to have your faith cemented in the reality of His Word and promises. Peace that passes understanding is offered to anyone willing to receive it from the hand of God, Who is the only One that possesses true lasting peace.
“God is Spirit, and those that worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” John 4:24
We are created as 3- part beings, each having its personalized importance. When we choose to do the right thing in the wrong way, we open ourselves up to the deception of the enemy. His craftiness blinds our hearts to become captive to his dealings.
Today, be alert and informed, avoiding the decline into deception.
As we celebrate the 4th of July this year it is a good time to reflect on our roots. There is a saying in Christian circles that history broken down spells his-story. How God reveals His means and methods in time, as to how He wants to bring all things back to the original plan before the fall.
America was founded on Biblical and moral Truth; a reason for America’s blessings and survival for the last 200 plus years.
America was never a “perfect” nation but a light and testimony to the world that she honors God and His people (Israel).
A slow, but sure, erosion over time has been eating away at her values and roots. As she has prospered her people have changed their character and choices in how they want to live and be governed.
Now many educators are changing how history is being re-written and remembered. Many of today’s citizens have never been to war, except maybe in riots on our own streets and campuses. They have never had to go through loss and a valley of tears or had a spirit of strength to fight for what they really believe is best for the nation based on our original values. We are a nation that has gone selfish and soft.
Let’s travel with Peter Marshall back in time as he traces the decline of the American Dream and sees what happens when a nation compromises its beginnings and blessings.
“Truly God is good to Israel, to such as are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the boastful when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalms 73:1-3
This is a typical example of how we establish our patterns of depression as we compare our circumstances with the ways of the world.
Today, let’s investigate how these patterns develop and strengthen their hold in our thinking; setting us up for anger, bitterness, resentment, vengeance, apathy, and a season of depression if we don’t find the right “pattern” for breaking these strongholds.
“We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us, we implore you on Christ’s behalf be reconciled to God. “ 2 Corinthians 5:20
To be an ambassador is to hold an office or position as an official representative for a king or government.
Believers living under the government of God, who has rule of everything as He is the Creator of all, is a privilege beyond compare. This representation is for reconciliation in bringing world order that glorifies God Almighty.
So we invite you to join in the conversation as discuss how to function as Ambassadors for Christ.
This week Ginger continues to explore the life of David and encourages us to spend some time in the book of Psalms. What a treasure for our hearts to be given a picture of the grace and love given David just as we are called to live a life of holiness and trust in our Father God. Oh, what a sad picture when we choose to go our own way, even if just for a season.
In Psalms we will read the songs David wrote to express his personality and disposition. He was used by God to give us wonderful examples on how to keep our eyes toward heaven. We learn how to see God in the dark times, as well in the times of praise and rejoicing as a guide.
Many Psalms written by David start out in the “pits” of discouragement and despair, but David reaches deep down into his inner being and always finds God there; waiting on David to find hope, security, and reason for going on: IN HIM, his Great Shepherd and friend.
“The Spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a wounded spirit who can bear?” Proverbs 18:4
Depression can show up in many different symptoms and it may be hard to discover the root problem. Depression can lead to physical problems as the Scripture says a broken spirit dries up the bones.
A general description is – Depression is the consequence of wrong responses to life events that remain unresolved in a person’s life. Depression will impact your soul and your spirit.
Depression can be a “normal” response when overwhelming circumstances pile up with no relief. Depression can be diagnosed but the lasting solutions are found in the life-giving hope found in Jesus Christ. Listen for the answer.
“Grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever” 2 Peter 3:18
In this day and age knowledge is abundant, everywhere we turn we are gaining knowledge, but is it the knowledge that will have lasting benefits?
We send our children to school with a priority to get an education with life skills to be a success. Are we equally as dedicated to understanding grace, how it functions, and why it must be a priority, as grace and knowledge walk hand in hand?
Let’s open the only Book that has the wisdom to guide us to a successful appreciation of the Gift of God’s Grace.
If you want to see “raw” emotions and how they play out in life, David is a man to study. If you want a guide to see how to stay focused throughout your life, David is an excellent example.
One of the most talked about people in the Bible is David. The Bible does not hold back on the strengths and weakness in his life. From peace and tranquility to chaos and crisis David moved in and out of perplexing circumstances.
He experienced every possible emotion. From joyous “highs” to lonely “lows” with anger, discouragement, depression, and rejection in between ( and many a result of his own choices); David nevertheless, was a man after God’s own heart. What comfort can be found in seeing the faithfulness of God as David lived out his life in open communication with his Great Shepherd.
“I in them, and you in Me; that they may be made perfect in one and that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them as You have loved Me.” John 17:23
Friendships made real are cemented in love. The sharing, the desire to be together, the willingness to sacrifice for others, and the same objectives with the same goals are all afforded us when we respond to the drawing of the Father’s heart desiring friendship with each of us.
Knowing each other’s thinking, hopes, dreams, plans, wants, and needs are just a few qualities that develop in a lasting friendship. TRUST comes after the knowing is mature. Intimacy is earned.
Friendships should never be taken for granted, our relationships cannot be half-hearted or conditional, and friendships must be genuine – no cover-up. If those qualities appeal to you then invite The Lord Jesus Christ to be your friend by the tenderness of His Spirit.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
It can be hard to boast when failure and loss show up in areas that allow disappointments and discouragements. We are thankful for salvation secured by the gift of grace, but then, we want to be strong in our own strength, rather than His. That formula doesn’t work. It is only by the miracle of grace; nothing of ourselves.
Today, as we review church history over the last 2000 years, we can trace GRACE operating in each age, overcoming the doubts that rob and restrict us of a God-Given Life.
So join in the conversation as we discover the “formula” that does work, but only by God’s Amazing Grace.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green examines “Confronting Casual Christianity” by Charles F. Stanley.
Casual Christianity pulls back the curtains for choosing to be satisfied with making a decision in your Christian life but failing to make a commitment to the Person of Jesus Christ. Partial commitments are not an option. The scriptures are consistent in being wholehearted in your decisions if you want to be His disciple and learn and grow into a mature child of God.
Fear of the unknown of what God may ask of you puts on the “brakes” with getting too involved with a heart that says “none of self and all of Thee.” Yes, it can be scary if we look through the eyes of circumstances and consequences of what can happen here. What will be required of me?
When your heart is so in love with the Lord Jesus that He is your main focus, then fear lessens and love strengthens. The heart is so desirous to walk in His perfect peace with a rolling conversation that being casual about your relationship with Jesus is not an option in your life.
To come to this point is not easy as one must sing “I Surrender All.” Easy to sing, hard to do.
Knowing and understanding the full benefits of the Cross of Christ and then taking up your cross on His behalf is our goal and focus. We don’t want to be like the rich young ruler who wanted to follow Christ but when given the qualifying factor, he could not part with his temporal lifestyle and benefits.
“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24
Being a true friend that stays by your side can require some character development in the relationship. Sometimes words of correction are needed to remove blind spots in thinking. Sometimes special support is needed when your friend has made some wrong choices and is struggling to overcome guilt.
There are so many different ways to express the heart of a true friend that brings a closeness of comfort, confidence, and calmness. Let’s take a little time today to review the benefits of being a friend, especially to our greatest friend of all, The Lord Jesus.
“Without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6
Hebrews 11 looks at a list of lives that reflect the character of faith. Only to be what He wants me to be is the heart of the Philadelphia Church, located in the city of brotherly love.
The Church’s commitment comes from the heart of love because Christ first loved us and gave Himself for us. Let’s investigate what makes up The Faithful Church.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green explores Living by the Book by Howard and William Hendricks that will help us better examine our hearts by the word of God.
Do you know as much about the Bible for your spiritual growth and security as you do about your job, whether in the workplace of business or in the home caring for family?
Have you succumbed to the current culture of social media to get your quick fix for information?
Can you explain the convictions of your belief system and biblical world view?
Can you defend why and what you believe from the Scriptures and how they are sufficient for all aspects of life?
If you answered yes to these questions, then you have strong character traits of Living By the Book. If not, then this outline will get you started on the right path if you are willing to be a student of the Word and not just a casual observer.
Most Christians are so earthbound in their thinking and wanting to get “spoon-fed” by others. They wonder why they do not retain the Truth when they hear it. We need to examine our hearts as to where Jesus Christ is as our first love. If other projects or people, including self come first, then our being grounded to face the difficult days and to serve as life, light, and love will be hindered. The result is that we will be damaged and we will damage others as we are all one Body.
Ask the Father to give you His heart for the wisdom to know Him through Living By the Book.
“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24
As we build relationships, even from early childhood, we find that issues that draw us together are not always because of personality appeal. For a Christian, the hand of God is placing one another into positions that will further His plan for each life and how that plan will bring glory to Him, not just someone we can enjoy because of comfort or convenience. We learn as time progresses that a true friend will always be loyal and will “SUPPORT YOUR STRENGTHS AND SHORE UP YOUR WEAKNESS.”
A true friend will be willing to care with kindness, even in difficult places, without feeling burdened by unusual challenges. Sometimes friendships extend outside the “family” connection as brothers and sisters in Christ because one “outside the family circle” needs to be drawn and welcome into those everlasting ties. Expand your meditation time with how you can add a friend to your family.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 19:19
In today’s world with changing values and priorities, we have forgotten the exhortation to be wholly dedicated to a PERSON, God Almighty through the life of our Lord Jesus Christ and The Holy Spirit to guide us.
We substitute a system of works, performances, planning events, duties, and deeds believing we are fully surrendered to the Lord. Let’s remove our second best, return to our First Love, and learn His heart so we may walk in True Christianity.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green takes a look at Culture by A.W. Tozer
“We who call ourselves Christians are supposed to be a people apart. We claim to have rejected(repudiated) the wisdom of this world, and adopted the wisdom of the cross as the guide of our lives.
We have thrown in our lot with that One who, while He lived on earth was the most unadjusted of the sons of men. He would not be integrated into society. He stood above and condemned it by withdrawing from it even while dying for it. Die for it He would, but surrender to it He would not.”
In his book entitled Culture-Living as Citizens of Heaven on Earth- A. W. Tozer tells it like it is: to follow Christ toward heaven is to invite trouble in this world.
So come be a part as we examine Culture-a small sampling of Tozer’s writings on what it means to be a Christian in a world that is largely uninterested in Christ. And how as Christians we should live in this world while maintaining our identity as citizens of another.
“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:30
When we choose to ignore the plain simple commands to obey, in love, what is taught in the Scriptures we grieve and can quench the Holy Spirit’s working in our lives. He will no longer support us in our poor choices but wants to restore us if we will REPENT and follow His leading.
Confess in agreement that we are out of step with Him and REPENT, turn around, and change our direction in thinking and actions. Failing to respond to these matters leaves us in self-dependency traveling in a danger zone of doubt, denial, and disobedience.
Come visit with us as we chat about the downfall of ignoring the Truth and grieving the Spirit.
“I know the works that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” Revelation 3:1
How often do we struggle with overwhelming circumstances that keep arriving in our lives, unplanned, and upsetting the comforts and security that we still own? It is so easy to blame others for being guilty of creating the stress and strife we fight.
However, we need to turn a pointing finger back to ourselves and question if we are to blame for our own problems to some degree? Many times we justify the role we played in creating the problem and excuse away our actions. It takes a conscience effort to see where we are blind and it all begins in our mind.
Today, we are talking about the mess we have today, knowing that God’s grace is available with the solutions to live and thrive as He has promised: “to make a way of escape that we may be able to bear it.”
So join in the conversation as we focus on Hope in Jesus Christ, to let our eyes be opened, see what needs to be corrected, and find deliverance from deception of the mind.
Today, Ginger Green opens another chapter into the mysterious and unknown paths that may confront us during the course of running the race here, as she explores Deceived by God by John Feinberg. We find it offers a view from above that can help carry us through when troublesome times appear.
The Word of God is filled with hope, love, a guaranteed future for those that love the Lord and are called by His name. With countless promises and blessings, seasoned with grace, we want the Bible to be our constant companion, as it supplies the foundation of our life in Christ.
When all this appears to fail and unthinkable troubles become living realities in our lives and families, how do we continue to trust in a Holy God? Where do we go when we are on a slippery slope of sinking and cannot provide comfort or answers to all those in need.
Deceived by God addresses this issue from a man in ministry, sold out to service and loving his God; yet facing the unthinkable. Though no fault of anyone involved, overwhelmed with pain and sorry, John Feinberg looks at the hard questions of being a believer and not wavering in faith, though tossed about with perplexity.
“The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness, but who can bear a broken spirit?” Proverbs 18:4
We probably do not give much thought that our spirit can be a tool for fighting sickness in the soul and body – an actual healing tool for getting well.
With that same thought we are told when our spirits are broken, and torn apart, focusing on the overwhelming circumstances and losses may contribute to the breaking down of our health and wellness.
What grace for our Designer and Creator to have built into our body systems strength to fight against what damages and destroys.
Today, let’s see and hear what makes and keeps a strong spirit. The Word of God reveals what may be hidden to many people searching for real solutions.
“Remember therefore how you have received and heard, hold fast, and REPENT.” Revelation 3:3
The Lord knows all matters as He knew the weakness of this church. He announces that His character is complete wisdom, knowledge, and love. If they had ears to hear and applied His character in their lives they would walk in spiritual health.
However, Sardis did not want to listen but wanted to build for themselves a name and trust in their wealth, wisdom, and works as a means of being successful “for the Lord.” They were coming out of the “dark ages” where the Word of God had only been available through a select few.
They needed a Great Deliverance from ignorance of the mind and awakening with all diligence the heart, for out of it spring the issues of life. Then they would live delivered from deception of the flesh.
So join in the conversation as we look at those ways that we too can find deliverance from deception of the flesh.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green explores Forgiving Forward by Bruce and Toni Hebel. This is not the average “forgiveness” book. Heavy with experiences made practical and answering questions many are not even asking; makes this a life-transforming book and one that should be in your library.
Forgiveness is foundational to a life of faith. It is so much more than saying, “I am sorry.” True forgiveness will take us out of our comfort zone and required a renewing of our minds. Our natural minds cannot work from logic and reason in this matter because it is a supernatural work provided by The Supernatural God. We are told to forgive as Christ has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:30.) Whatever has been done to me from another’s sin nature, I have done to Christ with my sin nature.
All sin, no matter the degree required Christ to go to the Cross and pay the price. The words may be simple but the process is complex in that our hearts must be made right before God with having our speech free of corrupt communication and only for edification to the hearer, being free from grieving or quenching the Spirit and getting rid of bitterness, extreme anger for harm to another person, and other thinking that is of the flesh with corresponding negative emotions. (Ephesians 4:29-31.)
Many often quote John 8:32 “You shall know the Truth and the Truth shall set you free.” However, there is a key to that reality being applied and that is found in the preceding verse 31, “IF you abide (to be at home)in ME and My words abide in you, THEN, knowing and applying the Truth can be made practical for necessary forgiveness releasing burden and guilt that unforgiveness carries.
Then He said to them ALL, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” Luke 9:23
On the surface, these words are not the most soothing to hear in wanting to grow as a Christian. We think we have a good standard of what our lives should look like, but the Lord knows the depths of hidden threats that will rob us of the best. Thank goodness we do not have to lean on our own understanding.
How does one die to self? Join us today, as we expose examples, explanations, and evidence of a life that “Dies Daily to self.” When we appropriate the impossible made possible through the Lord Jesus and the power of His Spirit, the results are strength and joy unspeakable and full of glory for whatever comes.
“I know the works that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.” Revelation 3:1
There is a principle in the Scripture that says, “Point of departure – point of return.”
As the letters in Revelation 2 and 3 were circulated to all the churches Sardis needed to remember where the Church had its beginnings and return to the Truths that Jesus Christ gave in these letters.
A few good men lived worthy lives and translated the scriptures into different languages and invented the printing press, but they paid a great price. The Scriptures were then available to the people who had lived in darkness for hundreds of years. We still have the privilege to live in that freedom today.
So join in the conversation as we discuss the church of Sardis and the command to come alive.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green pulls “The Greatest Thing in the World” by Henry Drummond to take a look at Love.
The word LOVE has many different meanings in the Greek and are all translated into English without making a distinction.
EROS: From which we get the word erotic and is never used in the Bible. It has to do with the love between a man and woman which embraces longing, craving, and desire. We can love each other without having the ultimate love. Usually has sexual overtones, a need love.
STERGO: is only used 3 times in the New Testament and means love of kindred, especially of parents for children and children or parents. The love between husband and wife and for others of close kindred. A love of family. Can still be lacking the ultimate love.
PHILEO: mainly denotes the attraction of people to one another who are close together both inside and outside the family. It is a love of liking, an affection for someone or something that is the outgoing of one’s heart in delight to that which affords pleasure. It includes concern, care, and hospitality to others and many times is a friendly love between members of the body of Christ. However, as good as it is, we can still lack the ultimate true love of:
AGAPAO: The noun form is agape. “it is a love called out of a person’s heart by an awakened sense of value in an object which causes one to prize it.” Love of approbation and esteem. A love that recognizes the worthiness of the object loved. This love is the soul’s sense of value and preciousness of its object. (Wuest)
Join Ginger as she opens our hearts to the wonders of “true love.” Hope it will create in you the hunger to live a life well pleasing. Agape love is the love the Father desires we all mature in; with nothing lacking. “We love Him because He first loved us.”
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5
In that one sentence, Jeremiah gives us a mini-view of why we are here on earth at this appointed time and place. God told Jeremiah I am responsible for your very life for a special purpose, he was set apart. The path Jeremiah was to walk included times of trials and pressure.
To prepare us for God’s BEST, He may place us on the Potter’s wheel as he sculpts and fashions us for why we were born and formed. Hard times are simply the pressures from the Potter’s hand in reshaping us as a lump of clay so that nothing can mar the vessel He is making.
Today, if you are feeling pressed, be aware that good matters are at work in the vessel He is preparing. Today, make sure you are pliable in the Potter’s Hand.
“Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, “I will” put on you no other burden on you and hold fast till I come.” Revelation 2:24
This promise of hope that came to Thyatira was so needed to the faithful few standing for truth as they were being forced to live a pagan lifestyle of compromise for survival. Rules founded on Satan’s thinking of releasing spiritual responsibility and substituting intellectual enlightenment of love for self – first, last, and always were heading up the program.
We can see the same type of controls being placed on different people from different countries demanding those inhabitants follow the dictates of man-made thinking today.
As these controls become “new laws” for all; Do not be deceived when this way of living is called progress. It is a self-centered, selfish system from false views of philosophy that depraved souls embrace for their own purpose. Join our conversation to Stand Strong and reap the promise.
This week on Sharin’ Hearts: The Fireside Bookshelf, Ginger Green pulls Humility by Andrew Murray from the shelf.
One of the best definitions of humility is one by today’s author, Andrew Murray. This man’s life reflected what he wrote. He has described HUMILITY as:
“Perfect quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble, not to be fretted or vexed or irritated or sore or disappointed.”
“It is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised.”
“It is to have a blessed home in the Lord, where I can go in and shut the door, and kneel to my Father in secret and be at peace as in a deep-sea of calmness when all around and above is trouble. It is the fruit of the Lord Jesus Christ’s redemptive work on Calvary’s Cross, made known in those of His own who are definitely subject to the Holy Spirit.”
This cannot be head knowledge, it must be a life lived in the power of Another, tested and tried on a regular basis, so that it becomes a part of your character and a continual habit. What held true in the day and ministry of Andrew Murray is still as relevant and needed today as in the days of old.
The description of hearing with your heart is valid and vital for all that know what it is to be a part of the family of God. For those that are yet to become a part of His family, hunger and need must be created and that starts in the heart.
