Scare in the Air!
This weekend my wife and I were out of town. We were scheduled to fly back to Orlando early Sunday morning in order to make the morning service. After a slight delay, we began our departure. Within moments, Cristina and I began to smell a weird smelling smoke. The alarms began ringing. The flight attendant came on the intercom and informed us that there was a fire on board and to remain calm while she checked it out.
Things then got worse. The pilot announced that we were to prepare for an emergency landing. The flight crew was not even sure if we could make it back to the airport in time. The flight attendant came to me and asked if I was prepared to remove the exit row doors, as I was seated there. I told her that I was ready to assist and prepared to do whatever I could to help evacuate the other passengers. The reality of this moment began to set in. It looked as if we were going down.
The good news is that both engines were still intact. As we began to prepare for the landing, all assumed the brace position. While some were crying, others panicking, Cristina and I held hands and prayed in the Spirit. Moments later, we were on the ground being escorted off the plane by fireman and emergency workers. We were safe!
In light of this situation, I am ever grateful for the covenant that we have with God our Father. We had peace through this frightening moment, because the covenant of the Lord, will always protect His people. God has spoken many words of destiny and promise over our lives. Nothing can by any means harm us, because the Word of the Lord must come to pass! Not one day of our lives can be cut short, until the precious work of God through our lives is completed.
I want to encourage you in this for your lives today. You have a covenant with God. He will protect you and sustain you til your all days have been fulfilled! The Word of God will preserve you always!
Ps 91:9-11
9 If you make the LORD your refuge,if you make the Most High your shelter, 10 no evil will conquer you;no plague will come near your dwelling. 11 For he orders his angels to protect you wherever you go. NLT
Monday, September 24, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
Crazy!
Only one word can describe what happened last night in our evening miracle service, "CRAZY!"
Only one word can describe what happened last night in our evening miracle service, "CRAZY!"
In the beginning of the service, there was such an awesome and heavy presence of God's Glory. It was the kind of experience where all you could do is stand still with tears falling from your face. God's presence was so tangible and real. As we ended our worship service, I stood speechless. I did not know what to say or which direction to go. So, I remained silent before the Lord, not daring to move on before Him or without Him.
Then, it happened. A crazy, ear-piercing, radical praise began to break out in the congregation. It was as like a bomb went off spontaneously in each individual . People began dancing, shouting, and spinning violently. This went on for over an hour! You could sense that miracles were taking place throughout the congregation. Liberty showed up and nothing could stop it!
As I reflect on what happened last night and how it happened, I am reminded that waiting on the Lord is one of the most essential keys in effective ministry. We cannot move on without Him. Last night, it was clear that God wanted to do something that did not involve me or need my assistance. All He needed from me was to keep my mouth shut and get out of the way. He desired to touch and move upon His people. I am glad that I did not insist on making something happen on my own, or we would not have seen this mighty demonstration. God is God all by Himself. He is looking for yielded vessels that are willing to loose control and just "let go".
2 Cor 3:17- Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. NKJV
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Like a Child
Matt 18:3-4, Then he said, "I assure you, unless you turn from your sins and become as little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. NLT
There is no greater dependence than that of a child. They are dependant on their parents for everything concerning food, clothing, and shelter. Young babies never worry about if they will eat; they know it's a matter of when. Their mind has not developed to the point where they are capable of worrying if bills are paid, if food will be on the table, or if everything in their life will work out OK. They are too young and innocent to even have these thoughts and feelings.
When we turn from our sins and repent, this is the supernatural work of salvation. We literally become "born again". This process has many meanings, but specifically today, I want to look at how it relates to becoming like new born children.
When we are born again, we begin a brand new life, just like when we were born into this natural word. Yet, this process is spiritual. Like the attributes of a natural baby, so are the attributes of the "new man" we become in Christ through salvation. We become dependant solely on Him. He is our heavenly Father. We depend on Him to supply for all our needs - the big ones and the small ones.
Natural babies are oblivious to reality. It doesn't matter what is going on around them, they act the same. Their surroundings do not alter their behavior. They are just as noisy and playful in private as they are in public. They will cry privately or publicly. As God's children, we cannot allow the things going on around us to change who we are and the way we act.
Children have such an innocence. They have not yet been exposed to failure and disappointment. They are not aware that people are imperfect. As we all grow up, we are faced with many disappointments that take away from that innocent child like faith. When we become born again, that innocence is to be restored. We start seeing the best in every person and in every situation.
Humble yourself as a little child. Depend on your Father for all things. Stay playful and joyous even though things around you may be falling apart. Keep your innocent child like optimism and faith. Remember that God is your Father. He will take care of you!
Matt 18:3-4, Then he said, "I assure you, unless you turn from your sins and become as little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. NLT
There is no greater dependence than that of a child. They are dependant on their parents for everything concerning food, clothing, and shelter. Young babies never worry about if they will eat; they know it's a matter of when. Their mind has not developed to the point where they are capable of worrying if bills are paid, if food will be on the table, or if everything in their life will work out OK. They are too young and innocent to even have these thoughts and feelings.
When we turn from our sins and repent, this is the supernatural work of salvation. We literally become "born again". This process has many meanings, but specifically today, I want to look at how it relates to becoming like new born children.
When we are born again, we begin a brand new life, just like when we were born into this natural word. Yet, this process is spiritual. Like the attributes of a natural baby, so are the attributes of the "new man" we become in Christ through salvation. We become dependant solely on Him. He is our heavenly Father. We depend on Him to supply for all our needs - the big ones and the small ones.
Natural babies are oblivious to reality. It doesn't matter what is going on around them, they act the same. Their surroundings do not alter their behavior. They are just as noisy and playful in private as they are in public. They will cry privately or publicly. As God's children, we cannot allow the things going on around us to change who we are and the way we act.
Children have such an innocence. They have not yet been exposed to failure and disappointment. They are not aware that people are imperfect. As we all grow up, we are faced with many disappointments that take away from that innocent child like faith. When we become born again, that innocence is to be restored. We start seeing the best in every person and in every situation.
Humble yourself as a little child. Depend on your Father for all things. Stay playful and joyous even though things around you may be falling apart. Keep your innocent child like optimism and faith. Remember that God is your Father. He will take care of you!
Saturday, September 8, 2007
No Fear!
Over the past 3 weeks, I have been teaching on the issue of fear. It is impossible to lead a life of faith without being confronted with the opportunity to fear. I believe it's time to confront fear with uncompromising faith.
Fear keeps us from inheriting the promises that we find in the Word of God. So many times we fall short of obtaining the things that God has reserved for us, because fear has gained a foothold in our mind. We see this with the children of Israel who were brought out of Egypt. After their deliverance the Lord brought them to the wilderness to test their faith. Time and time again He gave them an opportunity to trust Him and believe in His Word. Time and time again they failed in both areas. Because of their unbelief, that generation was not permitted to enter into the intended place of promise, Canaan (Hebrews 3:17-19).
We see in the story of David and Goliath (1Samuel 17) that fear brought confusion to the Israelites when confronted by the intimidating giant. Fear keeps us from seeing clear direction. It makes intimidating circumstances seem even more intimidating.
In verse 28, we read that Eliab was angry. Fear is usually the fuel for anger. Most of the time when someone is angry, fear is the root of that anger. Eliab also accused David of being full of pride, a statement that was obviously far from the truth. Fear can cause us to have false perceptions that can lead us to false judgements of others. Eliab insisted that David go back and tend to the sheep. Fearful people are controlling people.
Thank God David did not let these words of fear keep him from conquering the giant, Goliath. Oh, that we would respond like David and run towards our problem instead of away from it! It is time that we confront fear in the Name of the Lord. If God is for us, who can be against us!
2 Tim 1:77 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.NLT
Over the past 3 weeks, I have been teaching on the issue of fear. It is impossible to lead a life of faith without being confronted with the opportunity to fear. I believe it's time to confront fear with uncompromising faith.
Fear keeps us from inheriting the promises that we find in the Word of God. So many times we fall short of obtaining the things that God has reserved for us, because fear has gained a foothold in our mind. We see this with the children of Israel who were brought out of Egypt. After their deliverance the Lord brought them to the wilderness to test their faith. Time and time again He gave them an opportunity to trust Him and believe in His Word. Time and time again they failed in both areas. Because of their unbelief, that generation was not permitted to enter into the intended place of promise, Canaan (Hebrews 3:17-19).
We see in the story of David and Goliath (1Samuel 17) that fear brought confusion to the Israelites when confronted by the intimidating giant. Fear keeps us from seeing clear direction. It makes intimidating circumstances seem even more intimidating.
In verse 28, we read that Eliab was angry. Fear is usually the fuel for anger. Most of the time when someone is angry, fear is the root of that anger. Eliab also accused David of being full of pride, a statement that was obviously far from the truth. Fear can cause us to have false perceptions that can lead us to false judgements of others. Eliab insisted that David go back and tend to the sheep. Fearful people are controlling people.
Thank God David did not let these words of fear keep him from conquering the giant, Goliath. Oh, that we would respond like David and run towards our problem instead of away from it! It is time that we confront fear in the Name of the Lord. If God is for us, who can be against us!
2 Tim 1:77 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.NLT
Monday, September 3, 2007
Night of Deliverance!
I have been preaching for 10 years. I have seen and experienced many incredible moments in the presence of the Lord. But none compare to what I witnessed last night. I preached a word about family iniquity and generational curses. My text was from Judges 20 when Israel had to fight against their brother, Benjamin. Benjamin was of the family of Israel but fell into gross sin. They sinned against Israel by taking an Israelite women, raping her and leaving her for dead. We all have something in our family line that is perverse and sinful. These sins try to attach themselves to us, as they are past down from generation to generation. Time will not permit me to explain the message any further. If you want to hear the message in it's entirety, you need to call our ministry and request the CD. I promise you will see how to overcome these iniquities and see their power come to an end once and for all!
By the end of the service, the Power of God was stronger than I have ever felt or ever seen. People began running onto the platform in desperation for deliverance. Others began crying out for freedom. In the matter of moments, people were set free from curses that have plagued their families for many generations. You had to be there and see it for yourself. For these who were set free, this moment will forever be ingrained into their mind. You never forget moments like these.
My "moment" came when I was a 7yr. old child. I suffered from extreme embarrassment. I could not talk to people, praise God publicly, or stand it when people looked at me. My parents had many conversations with me about this, but I never got better. Then one night, my father called me out in the middle of a service. My legs shook and my back began to tighten. He called me again, and even though I was afraid, I dared not disobey. The power of God met me there as I was slain in the spirit for the very first time. When I got up of the floor, my embarrassment was gone! I have never had even the slightest struggle with it since that day. So life changing was this "moment" that I can remember the clothes and shoes that I was wearing. Like I said before, you never forget moments like this.
I spoke with my dear friend Pastor Joel this morning. I could not believe what he shared with me. God showed up in the same kind of way at Bethany on Sunday morning. This is total confirmation that God is bringing His church back to the days of old fashion Holy Ghost deliverance. You can read more about what happened at Bethany by going to www.joelstockstill.com.
I pray that you have a "moment" like this in your life. I pray that moment will take place even today as you read this! Cristina and I are praying for you to know the fullness of His freedom.
Mark 5:6-8
6 When Jesus was still some distance away, the man saw him. He ran to meet Jesus and fell down before him. 7 He gave a terrible scream, shrieking, "Why are you bothering me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? For God's sake, don't torture me!" 8 For Jesus had already said to the spirit, "Come out of the man, you evil spirit." NLT
I have been preaching for 10 years. I have seen and experienced many incredible moments in the presence of the Lord. But none compare to what I witnessed last night. I preached a word about family iniquity and generational curses. My text was from Judges 20 when Israel had to fight against their brother, Benjamin. Benjamin was of the family of Israel but fell into gross sin. They sinned against Israel by taking an Israelite women, raping her and leaving her for dead. We all have something in our family line that is perverse and sinful. These sins try to attach themselves to us, as they are past down from generation to generation. Time will not permit me to explain the message any further. If you want to hear the message in it's entirety, you need to call our ministry and request the CD. I promise you will see how to overcome these iniquities and see their power come to an end once and for all!
By the end of the service, the Power of God was stronger than I have ever felt or ever seen. People began running onto the platform in desperation for deliverance. Others began crying out for freedom. In the matter of moments, people were set free from curses that have plagued their families for many generations. You had to be there and see it for yourself. For these who were set free, this moment will forever be ingrained into their mind. You never forget moments like these.
My "moment" came when I was a 7yr. old child. I suffered from extreme embarrassment. I could not talk to people, praise God publicly, or stand it when people looked at me. My parents had many conversations with me about this, but I never got better. Then one night, my father called me out in the middle of a service. My legs shook and my back began to tighten. He called me again, and even though I was afraid, I dared not disobey. The power of God met me there as I was slain in the spirit for the very first time. When I got up of the floor, my embarrassment was gone! I have never had even the slightest struggle with it since that day. So life changing was this "moment" that I can remember the clothes and shoes that I was wearing. Like I said before, you never forget moments like this.
I spoke with my dear friend Pastor Joel this morning. I could not believe what he shared with me. God showed up in the same kind of way at Bethany on Sunday morning. This is total confirmation that God is bringing His church back to the days of old fashion Holy Ghost deliverance. You can read more about what happened at Bethany by going to www.joelstockstill.com.
I pray that you have a "moment" like this in your life. I pray that moment will take place even today as you read this! Cristina and I are praying for you to know the fullness of His freedom.
Mark 5:6-8
6 When Jesus was still some distance away, the man saw him. He ran to meet Jesus and fell down before him. 7 He gave a terrible scream, shrieking, "Why are you bothering me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? For God's sake, don't torture me!" 8 For Jesus had already said to the spirit, "Come out of the man, you evil spirit." NLT
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