If You Would Only Believe

The hardened land cannot receive rain, for it can no longer absorb.

What I did once, I did for ALL.

We won’t repeat–it is finished!

“He entered once for all into the Holy Place, taking not the blood of goats and calves but his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.” Hebrews 9:12

If the ground can no longer receive, it must be harrowed — prepared.

So too, it is, to prepare a heart that is no longer pliable. . .

Years of turning away — refusing to believe, would not receive, has turned it to stone.

“In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the likeness of God.” Hebrews 9:12

If My Blood does not penetrate, nothing will!

Think about it.

Are you the stone attempting to hold Me in the grave?

I walked FREE!

Are you?

Only Believe.

“See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less shall we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven. His voice then shook the earth; but now he has promised, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heaven.” This phrase, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of what is shaken, as of what has been made, in order that what cannot be shaken may remain. therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:25-29

“And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them; and they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, ‘Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles; and they will mock him, and spit on him, and scourge him, and kill him; and after three days he will arise.” Mark 10:32-34

“And they clothed him in a purple cloak, and plaiting a crown of thorns they put it on him. And they began to salute him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” And they struck his head with a reed, and spat upon him, and they knelt down in homage to him. And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple cloak, and put his own clothes on him. And they compelled a passer-by, *Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of *Alexander and *Rufus, to carry his cross. And they brought him to the place called Golgotha (which means the place of the skull). And they offered him wine mingled with myrrh; but he did not take it. And they crucified him, and divided his garments among them, casting lots for them, to decide what each should take. And it was the third hour, when they crucified him. And the inscription of the charge against him read, “The King of the Jews.” And with him they crucified two robbers, one on his right and one on his left. And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads, and saying, ‘Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself, and come down from the cross!'” Mark 15:17-30 *See editor’s note below.

“And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which means, ‘My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?'” Mark 15:33

“And Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed his last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that he thus breathed his last, he said, ‘Truly, this man was the Son of God!'” Mark 15:37-39

“And very early in the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, ‘Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?’ And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back–it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. and he said to them, ‘Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, he is not here; see the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you.” Mark 16:2-7

“Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, whom he had cast out seven demons.” Mark 16:9

“After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking in the country.” Mark 16:12

“Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they sat at table; and he upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen.” Mark 16:14

“Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come.” 2Corinthians 5:17

*Editor’s note: As I was typing this, I felt led to look up the names of the sons of Simon of Cyrene, Alexander and Rufus. I was not surprised to find that, sourced from search assistant, Alexander, Greek in origin, means ‘defender of man’ or “protector of men.’ His brother, Rufus’ name, Latin in origin, means ‘red haired’ or ‘red.’ It is only my opinion, but this speaks to me of Jesus, the ‘defender’ of men, through His ‘red’ blood, shed for all mankind. Again, it is only my opinion, but I don’t think it is coincidence that Simon of Cyrene, father of Alexander and Rufus, was “compelled” to carry the cross; for Jesus was compelled to carry our sins on that cross. Finally, the name of the man that carried the cross, Simon, is Hebrew in origin, and it means “he has heard.” or “listening.”

Jesus has ‘heard’ your cries and He has already made provision for you to receive Eternal Salvation, through His horrific sacrificial death upon the cross. Forever to be with Him, if only you’d believe.

He has ‘heard’, will you ‘listen’?

The Missing Key

Mar29

A couple of weeks ago, I lost the spare key to my house.

To set the stage, it was a few years ago when my very old wooden garage door finally gave out. My chosen replacement had three-foot panels that required the door to be ordered either larger or smaller than the previous door. The carpenter couldn’t go larger because of an internal support beam; therefore, against their recommendation, but because I really wanted it, I ordered the smaller door. Now, with the smaller garage opening, I can no longer open my car’s tailgate inside the garage. A bit inconvenient, when transporting groceries or my dog, but worth the sacrifice.

This day, I had stopped halfway into my garage to open the tailgate and let my dog out. I had the spare key in my hand, so I wouldn’t have to shut the car off to open the front door. The chain that engaged the key to an ornament had come unlatched in my hand, so I paused to hook it back up. When I got out of the car, with the spare key in my hand, I decided to just let my dog out and pull the car into the garage. I normally let him in the house first, for his safety, but decided that there is not much concern, since my car was already blocking the garage. Therefore, I opened the door with my regular house key and sometime after, noticed that the spare was no longer in my hand. I searched my car, the snow, everywhere, over and over and over. I just couldn’t find it, and concluded that it must have dropped in the snow and would be found when it melted. Every time I was out there my eyes scanned the snow looking for that key, but it just never turned up.

Last week, while pottying my dog, I searched once again, just before heading to my hairdresser’s. The snow had left in that area, but still no key. “Lord, I prayed, please help me find that key!” I had asked a few other times, not wanting that key just hanging out there, a few feet from the door it unlocks. After having gotten my hair done, I was about to leave when that key came to mind again. With my coat on, ready to leave, I told my hairdresser about it, relating my consternation that it had never turned up. With that, we said goodbye and I headed to my car, unlocked it and got in. The sun was shining so intensely on the seat beside me, that it drew my attention; there shining brightly in that sun-ray was the silver key stretched out on the seat beside–shining so bright it couldn’t be missed! It was on the same seat that for two weeks had multiple things tossed on and pulled off, as I hauled stuff back and forth to work; including my lunch bag, right on that spot. The same seat that had carried a passenger to and from an appointment. The key, link chain, and medallion were stretched out smooth–not a wrinkle in the chain–in a locked car!

Only an Angel could have done this, an answer to prayer.

I had asked before, but His timing is always perfect.

To God, be all the Glory!

To Him, I give thanks!

So, today the key came to mind again. That Friday, when it had happened, I had immediately gone back in and told my hairdresser ‘the rest of the story’ and thought then about giving testimony to it on my blog one day. Today, remembering, I decided to type up the testimony and discovered that a reader had visited a message from June 3rd, 2014, titled, “Open the Door.” Then I realized the title from the most recent message is, “The Time is Now.”

Reader, could God be trying to tell you something?

Just now, my computer did a really strange thing. I started to type out, ‘If God is calling you, don’t ignore Him.’ but it came out in all caps. I looked down to see that the caps light was not on. I tried it again, all caps. The only way I could get it to not type in all caps was to turn the caps on, and then it would type normal; but that wasn’t normal, and then, suddenly, it did go back to normal.

I kid you not!

Concluding, that He wants that statement written ‘in all caps’ and somebody needs to take notice.

IF GOD IS CALLING YOU, DON’T IGNORE HIM!

“Open The Door”

Do not ‘work’ at pleasing others, for they will not satisfy your life. For just when you think you’ve accomplished their will, it will change–for emotions reign.

“Am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still pleasing men, I should not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10

Look to Me, for I AM pleased at your glance.

You don’t have to perform for Me, for I know you and, in you, I AM pleased. Rather, work at the task pressing on your heart and I will work those around you to, please you, to do what I’ve called you to do.

Do not be afraid of the goal–just begin.

Those who allow the goal to overwhelm, never start. Convinced in their heart that they can’t do what I ask, they stop listening and turn away; fear of failure has taken root in their heart.

I didn’t ask you to know how; I ask you to be willing.

From the start, you may only know a small part.

The plan is made perfect by My will. For I will impart My Wisdom to your heart, and knowledge to fulfill My will.

Do you question still?

Come along with Me. I will help you to see the answers to all that you ask.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

I AM unchanging, but ever-arranging your life to line up with Mine. As you ‘see’ Me, that is the key, that unlocks each door that you grasp.

Open the door!

“My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding;

yes, if you cry out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and equity, every good path;

For wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul; discretion will watch over you; understanding will guard you; delivering you from the way of evil, from men of perverted speech–” Proverbs 2:1-12

“Whatever your task, work heartily, as serving the Lord and not men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward; you are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24

The Time Is Now

Mar27

Your intentions must be strong to get through these battles — seemingly, endless battles.

But, I AM, the beginning and the end, so what is the battle?

Truly, what is the battle?

If you dissect what you are fighting, you will see that you wrestle to reconcile your past with your future . . .

But I say, what about now — this time you are living in? You can’t meld the two, as if creating a seam. Your past has passed, and your future you don’t know.

So, how are you creating life from the two?

Live in the present.

Allow Me to open each door in your future.

Release your past. You can’t haul it with you; if it no longer serves you it will weigh you down.

Here, is where you must trust Me to go forth–

I AM leading.

Simply stay in step.

“Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

“Let not loyalty and faithfulness forsake you; bind them about your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.” Proverbs 3:3-8

“Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways!” Psalms 119:1-3

“Blessed is every one who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways! You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.” Psalm 128:1-2

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2

The New Wine

Mar22

I have been so greatly troubled about the events of our world and especially the terrible purging that is coming forth in the Body of Christ; feeling torn inside between, glad that the truth is revealing what needs to be stopped and the anguish of compassion in my heart for all involved. How mild now, it seems, the attempted stoning of the woman caught in adultery in comparison to our modern world that casts sins before the entire planet.

A cleansing must come forth in the Body, for the New Wine to pour!

“Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere love of the brethren, love one another earnestly from the heart.” I Peter 1:22

Intersession arose from my heart. Sobbing, I cried out for the pain of the world, my own inner pain as well, which birthed this agonized prayer–

Lord, wreck that old wineskin that I can’t pour from it any more.

Please give me a fresh new skin, supple and clean, that I might pour from it the New Wine. For You’ve saved the best Wine for the latter days–You’ve saved the best for last.

I don’t want to pour out from the old skin that’s received trauma, pain, depression, despair, abuse, rejection, heartache and more. I never want to pour through that again.

Please grant me a new vessel, pure and whole, and the ability to pour, from You, what’s never been poured before. . .

The New Wine.

“The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; if he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; if he does, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but new wine is for fresh skins.” Mark 2:20-22

The world is in the midst of upheaval, a cleansing, purging of hidden sin—cloaked as good; not the true character of the Kingdom.

As Truth reveals, Truth magnifies — a cleansing must come to the Body of Christ.

I AM coming for a Bride purified, made ready!

Not clothed in a tattered garment, but radiant in the beauty of holiness — a vessel of honor; suitable for the Master’s use.

“If anyone purifies himself from what is ignoble, then he will be a vessel for noble use, consecrated and useful to the master of the house, ready for any good work. So shun youthful passions and aim at righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call upon the Lord from a pure heart.” II Timothy 2:21-22

The Kingdom must flourish as one.

Purity

Judge yourselves, that you not be judged. . .

Cling to what is good.

Abhor what is evil.

Make ready, My Bride, make ready!

“Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Matthew 24:42-44

“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master when he comes will find so doing. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed’, and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with the drunken, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will punish him, and put him with the hypocrites; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.” Matthew 24:45-51

“As the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those maidens rose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘Perhaps there will not be enough for us and for you; go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. Afterward the other maidens came also, saying ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” Matthew 25:5-13

“Let us rejoice and shout for joy! Let us give Him glory and honor, for the marriage of the Lamb has come [at last] and His bride (the redeemed) has prepared herself. She has been permitted to dress in fine linen, dazzling white and clean–for the fine linen signifies the righteous acts of the saints [the ethical conduct, personal integrity, moral courage, and godly character of believers]. Then the angel said to me, ‘Write, Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.’ And he said to me [further], ‘These are the true and exact words of God.'” Revelation 19:7-9 Amplified Bible

True Faith To Receive

Mar7

Everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere, but they don’t take the time to build the foundation to receive.

You must build the foundation to believe – for you must believe to receive.

So many pray in unbelief.

Not even taking time to think it through, they step out glibly–motivated by the outcome they want, rather than motivated by faith. It is through faith that you receive–through faith that you believe.

“And Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, bid me come to you on the water’ He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘O man of little faith, why did you doubt?'” Matthew 14:28-31

Faith is the substance.

Faith is trust.

A double-minded man cannot receive, for he cannot choose which to believe.

Do you see?

First, build the foundation in your heart of who I AM –

What I have done
What I will do

Believe that I AM True.

“For no other foundation can any one lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” I Corinthians 3:11

This is the basis on which you believe.

Can you drink this cup?

“–This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” Luke 22:20

These are your ‘works’ to receive– know Me!

Healing is partnership . . .

Knowing what I have done – Knowing what is yours – Knowing what I will do —

For I AM True!

“He who receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true.” John 3:33

Know My Word — Know Me.

Pray with confidence–

By faith believe
By faith receive

Do you see that when you doubt, you are not just doubting your healing–you’re doubting Me?

Have one mind — the mind of Christ.

Now believe!

“‘For who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?’ But we have the mind of Christ.” I Corinthians 3:16

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 KJB

“Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” John 14:13-14

“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways, will receive anything from the Lord.” James 1:6-8

“–Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and never doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will be done. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” Matthew 21:21-22

“So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes by the preaching of Christ.” Romans 10:17

“So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. But some one will say, “You have faith and I have works,” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith.” James 2:17-18

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus is Our Healer

Feb17

It’s mid-February and I am relishing our yearly mid-February thaw. The sun is shining, birds are singing and after weeks of low teens and below zero temperatures it restores hope that spring will soon be here!

A few weeks ago, we experienced a lake-effect storm that left visibility to absolute zero in some places. I was driving along the bay and this was suddenly the case. I couldn’t see anything! I quickly prayed, “Father protect me.” Immediately it cleared just enough for me to see a car sitting at a dead stop on the road in front of me. I was traveling, therefore was upon it in a matter of seconds. Yanking the steering wheel hard right, I was right up to the car and could see no space between us. It was so terrifying, I could imagine the impact, and can only think that the Lord must have intervened that we didn’t. Now I’m on the shoulder driving right along the guard rail pushing snow like a plow in my Subaru Outback. My car started to bog, almost stalled and then picked up momentum again and I was able to pull back into the lane, having no idea if anyone was coming or not. When I got back into the lane, a glance in the mirror showed two cars coming up from behind, but were back sufficiently. The car that was stopped, had a car stopped right in front of it, so if we had crashed it would have been a 5 car pile up.

I thank God for His protection.

I don’t know what He did to stop it, but I can’t see how I possibly missed that guy, and it all happened in a matter of minutes.

So, I was headed to the car dealership to get some repairs done on my car. When I arrived I was shaking badly and that remained with me for a couple of hours. I am a good driver, but sometimes the elements are beyond natural abilities.

The car repair was going to take some days, so they were giving me a free rental to drive, and walked me there to get that done. They asked for drivers license and I was stunned to hear them say, “We can’t give you this car, your license is expired.”

What?!

I had no idea I was driving on an expired license, and headed to the Secretary of State to get that taken care of. No license, no repairs, which were desperately needed. Special tip? There was no customers at the D.M.V., likely due to the snow storm. They took care of me immediately–I don’t know what it’s like in your part of the world, but here in Michigan we normally wait hours!

*Correction: I’m told it’s much better now that they have introduced an appointment system. Happy to hear that!

You know I think the whole thing might have been the Lord’s idea? It sounds strange, I know, but I always promptly pay my bills. My husband used to get mad at me because I would start writing checks for the bills, that just came in the mail, before even taking my coat off. I enjoy paying them because to me it is proof that the Lord is taking care of me. If you are struggling to pay your bills, I sympathize with you! I’ve been there and have lived through some hard times. Very hard times! However, since giving my finances to the Lord through tithing and offering, He has steadily increased me; the fact that I can pay my bills is an act of worship to me, in thanksgiving, for His faithfulness to provide. Please think on that. I would like you to experience that same freedom and peace.

So, when I had gone home I went searching for that bill. I couldn’t believe that I had not paid it. I found it. I had actually filled it out to pay by mail, but hadn’t done it. I remembered then, they had sent it over a month early so I wasn’t in a big hurry for this one. I then had turned the envelope over and used it for spur of the moment scrap paper, and then it was all over. I never turned the envelope back over to realize it was a bill.

So this is why I’m wondering if the Lord had a idea in this. If I had sent it in, as planned, it would have been my old license, just renewed; but because I was in person they made me take the test and get a new picture.

Here comes the exciting part. . .

For the first time in my entire life, I no longer have vision restriction on my drivers license!

If you are a new visitor to my blog, then you don’t know that two years ago I went to bed seeing and the next day woke up blind in both eyes! You may read about it by searching for the post titled “A Miracle in Progress.” There is also an update post of the progress titled, “Miracle Progress.” My miracle took several months that not only restored my vision, but I now no longer wear any correction and I no longer have Glaucoma. This was verified by a Glaucoma specialist/surgeon. You may read in detail about it in those posts.

“Oh Lord, my God, I cried to thee for help, and thou hast healed me.” Psalms 30:2

So, I went through the eye test, passed, and as the guy was having me sign, he looked down at the paperwork and said, “Oh, wait, do you have contacts in?” No. He looked puzzled, looked back again at the paperwork, and said, “Do you wear glasses?” No. “You don’t?” No.

So I told him I used to, but then went blind and got a miracle–God healed me! Adding, that I also no longer have Glaucoma.

He was silent.

And then said. “Ok.”

Man of few words. What could he say? I passed the test and he could see I wasn’t wearing contacts. So, I just think God wanted me to have the joy of having my first ever license that said, ‘Restrictions: None.’

I once was blind, but now I see!

I am thankful every day for that.

Don’t tell me God doesn’t heal or that the gifts were only for the Apostles’ time.

I know that’s not true.

Jesus is our Healer!

“And his disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered, ‘It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him. We must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.’ As he said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man’s eyes with the clay, saying to him, ‘Go, wash in the pool of Siloam’ (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing.” John 9:2-5

“And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who has not the Son of God has not life. I write this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence which we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him.” I John 4:11-15

“Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:4-5

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” I Peter 2:24

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” Psalms 103:2-5

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

Love Is Truth

Feb14

I have to admit I have been troubled about my last post, “The Perspective of Love.”

This is specifically what was troubling me . . . “I gave the ultimate sacrifice that you not be judged–that was My mercy for you. Now I call you to be like Me–offer mercy to others; by casting your judgment aside, overlooking what they have done, and give that to Me.”

“How can we overlook what they have done and just give it to you, Lord?” I asked Him. Isn’t that just like the coverup that has been happening, that has everyone riled? It troubled my heart that it was advocating looking the other way. I wanted to take the post down, if that is the case, and yet, it’s not my message. I write what He gives me, without question–until now.

I questioned–wrestled with it and then He brought to mind the scripture, “If any lacks wisdom, let him ask.” It was an invitation, and right on it’s heels He said this, “Remember the disciples asked me to explain the parable.”

Yes, I can ask you for understanding!

Too often, when something seems uncomfortable to our theology, we turn away, reject, take down the post. That was the initial knee-jerk reaction of what I wanted to do. But I know I don’t make these messages up, and I won’t bring Him down to my size; that leaves only one solution, I need more understanding. I simply said, “Lord, in light of what is happening in the world today, that message bothers me. I need your wisdom and clarification”

“Would you please explain it to me?”

The following message is what poured forth and it settled my heart about the previous message. I hope it does for you as well. If not, please ask Him for more. He will be delighted if you do!

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all men generously and without reproaching, and it will be given him.” James 1:5

Love is Truth

There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed.

The same, I can say, for those who have hidden from themselves. There are many that have lived in pain for so long, they have formed callus around their heart–the hidden man that no one sees.

At first, it seemed safe. A self-protection to keep others from wounding again and again. In time this ‘safety zone’ became a cocoon; a self-built blanket of peace; but it’s not real–a lie that proclaims–“I’m fine.”

They know it is a lie but they embrace it–telling themselves, ‘I’m not hurting anyone, and it keeps them from asking questions.’ “I can’t face it, don’t want to talk about it–just leave me be!”

But, it began with a lie–Deception opens the door.

Truth becomes less important as self-preservation takes over.

A progression of acting becomes a way of life until . . .

Truth is no longer recognized – Boundaries become vague – The cocoon that once was comfort, now a prison.

Hope dies, held hostage by trickery–ever increasing–to keep others from knowing that it’s all a facade. They no longer remember when or where it began–they no longer can stop.

Yes, Truth must come forth.
Yes, Deception must stop.
Yes, the Church must be accountable.

“Be sure of this, that no fornicator or impure man, or one who is covetous (that is an idolator), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for it is because of these things that the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not associate with them, for once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things they do in secret; but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it is said, ‘Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light.'” Eph 5:5-14

But, I want you to look deeper.

I want you to look beyond the sin and look deeper within. Understand, you cannot simply rip the cover off and leave the wreckage to bleed.

I want you to see the need.

Love carries, to Me, the wounded soul – Love pours in the Oil and the Wine – Love leaves them with Me!

I do not ‘shake down’ to leave a battlefield in carnage.

I shake down to Restore.
I shake down to Rebuild.
I shake down to get to the Truth.

Plain and simple . . .

Truth is Love

and

Love is Truth!

I AM

“Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” Luke 12:2-3

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”John 1:1-5

“This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not live according to the truth; but if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” I John 1:5=10

“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints, to those who turn to him in their hearts. Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land.” Psalms 85:8-9

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21

The Perspective of Love

Feb7

Judgment falls to those who judge, but it isn’t the judgment of salvation–it is the judgement of your words.

“–For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. the good man out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgment men will render account for every careless word they utter; for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:34-37

Judge not, lest you be judged is a spiritual law.

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;–” Luke 6:37

Remember I desire mercy over sacrifice, for mercy triumphs over judgment.

I gave the ultimate sacrifice that you not be judged–that was My mercy for you. Now I call you to be like Me–offer mercy to others; by casting your judgment aside, overlooking what they have done, and give that to Me.

“For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy; yet mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:13

How many times have I spoken judgment in this brief time?

More than you’d care to hear.

Ever notice how many times you cast it about in your thoughts and words?

More than I care to hear. . .

Much more!

Forgiveness is a difficult decision sometimes–and yet, will never be as difficult as what I’ve gone through for you.

Allow My perspective to change you.

If you change your thoughts, you’ll soon change your words.

Judgment isn’t what you hear when mercy is clear. Your actions will speak louder than your words. Forgiveness is a decision to be acted upon through mercy.

It bears repeating . . .

Actions speak louder than words.

Choose forgiveness–have mercy!

That is Love.

“Judge not, that you be not judged. for with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye’, when there is a log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” Matthew 7:1-5

“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; And to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. Isaiah 55:6-8 NKJV

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in they sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalms 19:14

To Peppi – Much Love

Jan19

It was a little over 4 years ago that the Lord led me to Peppi. I was leaving to meet a friend for coffee when He spoke to me. “Take your books with you.” “I have someone I want you to give them to.” I immediately obeyed the request, didn’t even think to question.

When He asks me to do something, I do it!

If you haven’t read it yet, you may look up the entire story from the July 25, 2022 archive. The post is titled, “Nothing is too Complicated for God.”

I had been writing books for prisoners and was working on completing the final book of a 3-volume set, when the Lord stopped my writing on June 6th, 2021. If I had continued writing, the book would have likely already been to the publisher the day I met him, but the Lord had a plan. He was all about answering Peppi’s prayers. Peppi was out of prison for the last time. Last, because in his final round of prison he had come to his end–his rock bottom, which is when Jesus met him with open arms and he never looked back! He was sincere when he gave his life to the Lord, and studied hard so he could re-enter the prison system, ministering, as a free man. He told me, “Inmates often don’t want to listen to people from the ‘outside’ but they’ll listen to me.” he nodded confidently, “Because, I’ve been there!” What Peppi didn’t realize is that everyone listens to him. Our beloved Peppi, with his big smile and gentle loving heart doesn’t just casually meet you and pass on by, he comes to camp in your heart–forever.

So, he had been studying hard and was hoping to soon be able to begin ministering when suddenly Covid hit. “How am I going to get into the prisons now Lord?” he’d prayed. This was not long before we met, and the Lord answered that prayer, far beyond what he could even think or imagine.

That day, in the coffee shop, Peppi, told me his story. He had previously suffered cancer twice in prison, along with an extremely large aneurysm, a stroke and seizures. He then proceeded to tell me he now had cancer for the 3rd time, stage 4. At this I interrupted, as faith erupted out of me like a roar. I quickly asked if I could pray for him, and at his consent, clasped his hands and boldly ordered that vile cancer to leave in the Name of Jesus! Peppi was healed that day, as we received it in prayer, but there was a small progression of time to be met, as he built his faith to receive the full manifestation. You see healing is already ours–it was provided for us at the Cross. Jesus bore 39 stripes on His back for our healing. He took our diseases upon Him, but by faith we procure the promise. So many do not believe they are healed until they see it physically. If things take time then they, too often, ‘guess’ that it wasn’t God’s will to heal them. I have never read an incident in the Bible where He refused to heal or that it wasn’t His will. He healed all who came to Him. I explained this to Peppi and urged him to place scriptures on sticky notes all around his house where he would see them. “Read them, Peppi, out loud. See them, and hear them to get them down into your heart.” I urged him. You see, Peppi needed to get that living Word down deep in his heart, until it became so full that it flows out his mouth to match the faith he is declaring. That is when faith becomes unshakable. Many keep begging God to heal, but that’s not faith, that’s not receiving, it’s really not even believing. Ask, believe, and continually praise Him for your healing; while simultaneously ordering that sickness to leave in the Name of Jesus! It is your promise from the Lord. It’s not manipulation or a formula. It’s finding what your promises are and acting on them in faith. It is your Blood-bought gift–received at salvation–the children’s bread.

That was in October. By January 21st the doctor said he could hardly see any cancer. On March 3rd the scan showed no cancer at all, and a pet scan the following July further confirmed no cancer anywhere in his body. He had been completely healed of cancer in his brain, face, neck, shoulders and bones, stage 4, third round.

Glory to God!!!

So now it is with a very heavy heart that I tell you Peppi (Bobby) Martin has gone home to the loving embrace of his beloved Jesus.

Above, one year after the Lord healed him. He was strong, healthy and in his happy place with his church family. Left, he is a bit speechless to learn that the book was dedicated to him. Much Love Peppi!

He Came to Say Goodbye

I had sensed something was very wrong and had been praying diligently for him, but one morning I really wrestled and the Lord spoke to me firmly, “Peppi is not your responsibility.” That stopped me up short, and I knew in my heart he was gone, though He didn’t state it. I couldn’t find anything by searching, and he didn’t respond to text. That night I had a dream: a male friend came to me dressed in the finest suit I have ever seen. He said to me that he had to go away and it was a long trip. I said I wanted to go too, but he said, no, that I wasn’t ready. I looked down to see that I was wearing my pajamas and robe and concluded that I surely wasn’t. When I looked up, he was gone. I awakened just then and started searching again, but still found nothing. It was 5 days later that I felt pulled to search again, and happened upon a facebook post of his niece. I don’t utilize facebook so I was grateful that she didn’t have it locked down and I was able to see it. It was there that I learned he had died. He died the day the Lord told me he wasn’t my responsibility and the day of the dream. It was Sunday, January 4th. I have searched since and have never again been able to find that facebook post or anything else about him, except after knowing, I found it on his home church facebook page. I hadn’t thought to look there and searching didn’t bring it up. If it hadn’t been for his niece I might not have been able to attend his life celebration and I would have missed out meeting his family.

Peppi’s family are such loving, welcoming people! I am so glad I was able to meet them. They did a very hard thing in coming all this way. Peppi is from Chicago, and so they held a service in Chicago, in the afternoon, the day before; and then made that long drive up here to do another service with his church family and two of his nephews that live here. You don’t really know someone until you meet a room full of people that love them and you see them, amplified, through many eyes of love. Peppi is cherished and more loved than most of us could ever hope for. It shows what a stronghold drugs can take on a body, when all along he was so loved and supported. Don’t ever take drugs; they will rob you of the best of life and for too many, even take their life!

Peppi’s pastor, Matt, gave the most beautiful message out of passages from Peppi’s own bible that he had highlighted. “This is what Peppi would want you to know, from what was important to him.” So personal, so beautiful. I had never heard anyone do that and he even uploaded images of Peppi’s highlighted verses.

BEAUTIFUL

Thank you Pastor Matt! Thank you Peppi’s family, for sharing your Peppi with me. Thank you, Jesus, for leading me to meet him and giving me the opportunity to share in his healing and carry out his heart’s desire. Peppi’s life was robbed short, but his voice was not silenced. His story is in the book, “His Voice in My Heart to Freedom” that is continually being sent to prisons, jails and rehab centers all over this country and the world; at the time of this writing, 38 countries. His story has been read all over the world in this blog as well. The Lord didn’t take Peppi, he received him. He is released from a lifetime of suffering.

He is truly Free!

I have much to say about the community that was relentless after Peppi–the community that eventually took him down. No, Peppi didn’t return to street drugs or his old lifestyle, and he remained totally faithful to his Lord Jesus, whom he loved with all his heart. I have much to say but have chosen not to. I am working on forgiveness. I choose to forgive, but I must deal with the anger and learn how to cope with the injustice that preys on the gentle and innocent. This world has been robbed of a beautiful light. Peppi loved his people. His family, church family and friends all received texts from Peppi filled with encouragement and love. He ended his texts making sure you knew that. . .Much Love! His tagline, usually with added hearts.

Peppi loved much — he was much loved!

Peppi I will see you again. You taught me more about you from your life’s celebration and meeting your loving family and friends than I ever understood in knowing you; but what I always did know is that you are special and you are amazingly strong! I am so grateful that the Lord sent me to meet you and for the tremendous gift of knowing you. I am thankful that He gave me opportunity to have a small part in fulfilling your heart’s destiny. I look forward to the day that we will all be together–celebrating, like there’s ALWAYS tomorrow!

Much Love, Lori

“With my whole heart, with my whole life, and with my innermost being, I bow in wonder and love before you, the holy God! Yahweh, you are my soul’s celebration. How could I ever forget the miracles of kindness you’ve done for me? You kissed my heart with forgiveness, in spite of all I’ve done. You’ve healed me inside and out from every disease. You’ve rescued me from hell and saved my life. You’ve crowned me with love and mercy. You satisfy my every desire with good things. You’ve supercharged my life so that I soar again like a flying eagle in the sky! You’re a God who makes things right, giving justice to the defenseless.” Psalm 103:1-6 TPT

Peppi, is a precious seed planted. May the harvest be great, and all glory be to God! AMEN!

I AM Missing You

Dec29

Your gifts go before you to lead you into higher Truth.

I did not release you from your past to have you flounder in your future. You will gain ground in understanding as you begin to trust that, I AM, truly leading this exodus from your past.

Your strength and reliance on Me has recently failed. This is not an area of concern, for as I’ve stated prior, your heart is steadfast. The confusion and even unrest and sometimes fear stem from your mind, not your heart. Trust will begin to grow as you restore seeking from your heart.

I have not left you; you know this and yet recently you have begun to question as time continues but your circumstances seemingly do not change. I have purposed this. You can no longer rely on your self, your past accomplishments, knowledge and wisdom. I need you to release fresh oil to those around you–those I place in your path.

Fresh oil comes from the pressing.

I have pressed you but find very little oil released. Your fruit is dry–you have been partaking of stale bread. Therefore, I cannot, am not able to release the oil I want to see flow from you; and will not be able to until you change your ways.

Your roots must go deeper.

I want you to reach a new depth–a deep vein under the surface. Tap into My flow–it is pure, it is True, it is the finest of oils.

The source of My Glory stems from the deepest cavern.

Only those stretched are able to put down roots to this depth–tap into this source.

The desert, dry and arid spaces force one to drive deeply seeking water, seeking strength. The greatest gift is hidden far under the surface, find it!

Stretch.

Dive deep.

Be restored.

Prime the pump; for I will squeeze you more in the near future but this time I expect the oil to flow.

You are in the press.

It’s time that you know just what it is that you’re missing . . .

For I have been missing you!

“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall exult in my God; for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation, he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” Isaiah 61:10-11