tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5363972805851518582024-03-06T00:32:37.591-05:00"Encourage Me Blog"Be Encouraged, Strengthened and Uplifted. God is bring forth His plan in your life.Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-46873768209853006132024-02-01T12:10:00.004-05:002024-02-01T15:35:26.125-05:00<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><h3 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-headings); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 1.25em; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Power of Godliness with Contentment.</h3><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0U-PFqvPyTuLDlRBLTFMEID8bfrKquvL-4rT-9HEUElgH1jhb5nvMcr0ma0yFCe3M4AehHytEu5yhmixOMsfvnCADholpVWsq-RMlZ6GpXlfzNvuuxPJTU8Slv2598535EEJMMXFqjUOymUKwbrcL7EN8WVT5F8j4eAtZ28wBoL2Wp83wFD0DaNdZw/s960/Godly-Contentment.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="960" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0U-PFqvPyTuLDlRBLTFMEID8bfrKquvL-4rT-9HEUElgH1jhb5nvMcr0ma0yFCe3M4AehHytEu5yhmixOMsfvnCADholpVWsq-RMlZ6GpXlfzNvuuxPJTU8Slv2598535EEJMMXFqjUOymUKwbrcL7EN8WVT5F8j4eAtZ28wBoL2Wp83wFD0DaNdZw/s320/Godly-Contentment.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><h3 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-headings); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Embracing True Riches:</u></span></h3><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In today's fast-paced world, where everyone seems to be chasing after more money, higher status, and the latest gadgets, there's a powerful message from the past that offers us a different way to look at life. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This message comes from the Apostle Paul in the Bible, especially in <i>1 Timothy 6:6</i>, where he says,<i> "But godliness with contentment is great gain.</i>" This simple message asks us to think again about what's really important in life.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">To truly understand what Paul is saying, we need to think about the time when he wrote these words. Paul was writing to Timothy, a young leader of the church in Ephesus, during a time when people thought success meant having lots of wealth and high status, much like today. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">However, Paul suggests a different path. He tells us that a good life comes not from gathering wealth and things but from living a life that pleases God and being content with what we have.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Back in Paul's day, there were many different ideas about how to find happiness. But Paul's message was unique because he talked about finding happiness through a close relationship with God. This idea of living in a way that's in line with God's desires, combined with being content, was a new and different way to look at life.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It's important to remember that when Paul wrote these words, he was inspired by the Holy Spirit. He wasn't just sharing his own thoughts or reacting to the politics of his time. The Holy Spirit was guiding him to write messages that would become part of the Bible, helping millions of Christians understand how to live their lives.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Paul's main point is that chasing after things like money or popularity is not what brings true happiness. Instead, happiness comes from knowing God and being happy with what we have. This doesn't mean that money or possessions are bad, but it's about putting them in the right perspective. They're not as important as having a life filled with God's love and purpose.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">By choosing to live a godly life and being content with what we have, we're choosing a way of life that values what lasts forever over what's temporary. Paul encourages us to be honest, generous, and humble, showing Christ's love in how we treat others and make decisions. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">When we learn to be content, we find freedom from always wanting more. This brings us joy and peace because we know we already have the most important things: a purposeful life filled with God's love.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In a world that often tells us we need to have more and be more, Paul's message is incredibly freeing. It invites us to live a deeper, more meaningful life, not based on what we own, but on our faith, hope, and love. Let's take this journey together, embracing the true treasures that come from living a life fully in God's grace.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">God bless you richly</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Gil and Loraine Howard-Browne www.revivaltimes.com </span></p>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-70968588072660405202017-04-23T16:40:00.000-04:002017-09-21T18:43:51.065-04:00Why is the Church so judgemental?<b><i>John 3:17 For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge (to reject, to condemn, to pass sentence on) the world, but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him.</i></b><br />
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<b><i>2 Corinthians 5:19 <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It was God [personally present] in Christ, reconciling and restoring the world to favor with Himself, not counting up and holding against [men] their trespasses [but cancelling them], and committing to us the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor).</i></b><br />
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The Gospel is Good News and Jesus made it possible. He said "I came to give to give life and life more abundantly. The gospel simply put is salvation from sin. The word salvation comes from the word sozo ...<br />
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<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b>to save a suffering one (from perishing), i.e. one suffering from disease, to make well, heal, restore to health</b></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b>to preserve one who is in danger of destruction, to save or rescue</b></li>
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<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica"; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 18.5714px;">In Hebrew, it comes from </span></span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 21.4286px;">yasa</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 21.4286px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "roboto" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 21.4286px;">(to save, help in distress, rescue, deliver, set free) </span></b></div>
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I often see preachers looking quite angry when they preach about sin, as if their anger will change the sinners heart. An often used cleche is "love the sinner but hate the sin", so they go after the sin with the assumption that by doing so, they are loving the sinner.<br />
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<b>Preaching hard against sin does not change a sinful heart nor does it stop people from sinning. </b>The truth is even the world famous ministers today are capable of sinning and in fact sin often. We cannot categorize sin into big or small sin. There are 18 works of the flesh and if we yield to them, we are in sin. But their are nine fruits of the Spirit that are the antidote to the 18 works of the flesh.<br />
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The bible says "Galatians 6:8 <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>"For he who sows to his own flesh (lower nature, sensuality) will from the flesh reap decay and ruin and destruction, but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.. " <br />
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So the key is not to make people feel guilty because of sin, but to introduce them to the life changing power of God and to help them walk in a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, so that He can convict them of sin, righteousness and judgement and be their teacher, comforter and guide.<br />
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There is no "one size fits all" Every person on earth faces challenges and temptations and each has strengths and weaknesses. But there is only ONE who understands them perfectly because He looks at the heart and not the shortcomings. People can hit the altar dozens of times, but without the Power of the Holy Spirit in their lives, they remain weak and open to temptation. <br />
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<b>That is why the Gifts of the Holy Spirit are so important</b>. They are Heavens link to humans on earth and provide us with edification, exhortation, comfort. But most importantly, they must be accompanied with the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit. <br />
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Paul said 1 Cor. 2:4 "I did not come proclaiming to you the testimony and evidence or mystery and secret of God [concerning what He has done through Christ for the salvation of men] <b>in lofty words of eloquence or human philosophy and wisdom; ..... Vs 4 "</b>And my language and my message were not set forth in persuasive (enticing and plausible) words of wisdom, <b>but they were in demonstration of the [Holy] Spirit and power,</b> <b>a proof by the Spirit and power of God, operating on me and stirring in the minds of my hearers the most holy emotions and thus persuading them]," </b>1 Cor 2:1 and 4 Amplified.<br />
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It was not his lofty words and human philosophy and wisdom the changed the Corinthians. <b>It was the "demonstration of the Spirit and Power of God" operating in him and through him that persuaded them. </b><br />
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There has come such a shift in the morals of this world and people are living their lives with all sorts of immoral things that bring self gratification. <b>More now that ever, will we need the intervention and demonstration of the Power of God in the lives of believers in order to counter the onslaught against the minds of those who love the Lord.</b> The power of God that sets men and women free from the yoke of bondage of sin.<br />
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<li>It's the fire of God that purges us. </li>
<li>It is the wind of the Spirit that blows away the smog that has accumulated and </li>
<li>The rain of the Spirit that waters the dry and thirsty soul.</li>
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<br />Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-10429345221248051052017-02-05T12:54:00.001-05:002017-05-11T14:12:34.011-04:00Burnout Remedy - The Secret Place. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have read several interesting articles all analyzing why people are leaving Church in droves. The articles in essence suggested that there could be methods or activities that would reverse that trend. <br />
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The one fundamental fact they all left out, is without a personal, deep relationship with God, we all feel unfulfilled, unsettled and a void inside. When the programs and activities have run their course, the void is still there. As a teenager, reading the bible was a chore and most sciptures did not make sense to me. Attending Church was boring, and a waste of time in my youthful mind. <br />
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At age 17, I had a powerful life changing encounter with the Holy Spirit. At the Church I was attending, there was great worship and powerful preaching, and a lot of legalism. But, they were passionate about the Holy Spirit and the anointing. They allowed the Holy Spirit to move in each meeting. It made me hungry for more of the Spirit. <br />
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The night I had the encounter with God, it was not speaking in tongues, that came several weeks later. It was an infilling of the power, fire and electricity of the Holy Spirit. That's the only way I can describe it, and the experience lasted for hours. My desires changed and suddenly the bible began to make sense and I could not read enough. I wanted to be in every meeting. I wanted to serve any way I could and I did. I drove the church bus, greeted people at the door. Taught children's Sunday school class. Became youth leader, played guitar in the band, and even played the church organ for a few years. We held open air meetings and did street ministry till early hours of the morning.. <br />
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It was not the building, programs or good preaching, but the life in the Spirit that changed it for me. It was the Pastor and leadership of the Church that encouraged and allowed the things of the Spirit that made me hunger and thirst for the presence and power of God. <br />
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I am now 67 and still loving my relationship with God. The bible says " walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh" Gal 5:16. The root meaning of lust is "a strong desire of any kind whether good or bad" It is the good or bad desires of the flesh that take us away from God's plan and purpose for our lives. It is the desires of the Holy Spirit, when we yield to them, that make whatever Church God has us in, profitable to us and a blessing to others through us.<br />
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It was that experience in my youth, and the subsequent implantation of the Word of God in my heart, that was the foundation for all that God has accomplished in our ministry over the past 50 years. <br />
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So my word to Pastors and leaders is, if you want growth in your Church, "you" must be full of and led by the Holy Spirit. You must have a heart full of His word and you must allow the Holy Spirit access to your congregation. You must foster a strong desire in the hearts of the believers for the things of the Spirit. Will they all embrace it, most likely not. But you will profoundly touch the lives of those that do and they will go on to do the same. You may not have quantity, but you will have quality. <br />
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There is no such thing as the perfect Pastor. We all face the challenges that life presents and some people are stronger than others. However, nothing can replace a personal life changing relationship with God. He is our helper, comforter and guide and His anointing will destroy yokes of bondage that try to overcome us. <br />
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If you are feeling dry and burnt out, stop what you are doing, go to a quiet place, and wait on the Lord. Don't spend that time telling God what is wrong and telling Him how to fix it up. Give Him opportunity to fill you, refresh you and pour into your spirit fresh vision, purpose and direction. Every one of us need that time alone with God.<br />
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God bless you all richly.<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
www.revivaltimes.comGil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-78999150614435696042015-10-20T22:36:00.001-04:002017-06-06T16:43:55.351-04:00Revival is God’s direction for man’s reception<b><span style="font-size: large;">Revival is God’s direction for man’s reception.</span></b><br />
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<b><i>"When an Immortal God visits mortal man, something big will happen."</i></b><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px; padding-right: 10px;">Psalm 85:6-8</span><span class="passage-display-version" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline;">(KJV)</span></h1>
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<span class="text Ps-85-6" id="en-KJV-15278" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">6 </span>Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?</span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-85-7" id="en-KJV-15279" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">7 </span>Shew us thy mercy, O <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span>, and grant us thy salvation.</span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-85-8" id="en-KJV-15280" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">8 </span>I will hear what God the <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span> will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;">Sometime in the mid 1990's, we had just completed forty four meetings in 36 days in London, Ontario, Augusta Georgia, and Winchester Virginia, and had seen God do some wonderful things in the lives of people.</span></div>
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A woman who attended an aerobics class at a church where we were holding revival, was invited to go directly to the meeting in progress. The Holy Ghost came upon her strongly, and she got filled with holy laughter. She had been extremely depressed and beat down through years of marital abuse. Her husband had recently died and left her penniless.<br />
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As she staggered out of the meeting, greatly uplifted and very intoxicated, she wanted to know what had happened to her. The lady who invited her, told her that God had visited her to show her how much He loved her. She immediately said that she wanted to come back the next night.<br />
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The next night, she got an even greater touch from God, and lay on the floor laughing for about an hour. Then she sat up and began to cry. I walked over to her and sat on the floor and asked her if she had ever committed her life to Christ. She said no, and I led her in the prayer of salvation. She cried and laughed her way to salvation as she met the Master. What a change came over her countenance.<br />
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The point I am trying to make here is that God is God, and He can use any method He chooses to reach a lost and dying world. Many object to the disorder of revival, but we have seen great fruit in the lives of people who have been touched in the almost 4,000 meetings we have done over the past 22 years. Similar things happen in every church we go to.<br />
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The revival has caused a stir, both positive and negative, all over the world. It has blessed many, frightened some, and bewildered others. When the "devout and God fearing" Jews (Amp), witnessed the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2, they reacted with astonishment, bewilderment, amazement, and were confounded and in doubt, at what they saw. Some thought the disciples were drunk and mocked them.<br />
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We can debate this passage all we want, but the fact is that the upper room experience was of such a magnitude that it grabbed the attention of the masses. The bible says, when it was noised abroad, the multitude came together. We know that God was working supernaturally, because 3,000 souls got saved that day. (Acts 3:41)<br />
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<b>Revival is an attention getter.</b> It will shock people out of their tradition, lethargy, complacency and doubt and unbelief. In the process, there will be those who question whether it be of God or not. In the bible, one such a man was Job. He said in <i><b>Job 42:2 "I know that You can do all things..."</b></i> Most Christians will admit that God can do all things. Job continues "<i><b>.. and that no thought or purpose of Yours can be restrained or thwarted." </b></i>Again, most Christians will agree with that statement. Nothing can stop God’s plan and purpose from being carried out. But as long as it is contained in writing and remains a profound thought, it is acceptable. As long as man controls the words spoken or written about the power of God, it is ok. But when God manifests Himself to His people, it becomes a different matter.<br />
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God’s reply to Job is a rebuke. "Who is this that darkens and obscures counsel (by words) without knowledge?" Words without knowledge, speaks to me of ignorance. There are many who are ignorant of God’s ways, who are trying to direct His kingdom. Job’s confession is "Therefore (I now see) I have (rashly) uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know." Don't rashly utter what you do not understand. You may receive a rebuke from God. The things God is doing in the earth today, are too wonderful for us to fully comprehend.<br />
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My prayer is, "Lord, send the flood. Make it impossible for people to doubt Your works. Let the Glory flow over every church and denomination in the world, so that there can be no excuses. Let the world see "things too wonderful to comprehend" coming from You to them.<br />
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"Please send a wave of Your Glory to cover the Earth, Lord."<br />
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God bless you.<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
www.revivaltimes.com<br />
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Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-19724353056917471622015-02-08T16:34:00.001-05:002015-02-11T12:46:05.317-05:00Conspiracy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i><span style="color: red;">Isaiah 8:11-13 Amplified Bible </span></i></b><br />
<ul>
<li><b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">11: For the Lord spoke thus to me with His strong hand [upon me], and warned and instructed me not to walk in the way of this people, saying,</span></i></b></li>
<li><b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">12: Do not call conspiracy [or hard, or holy] all that this people will call conspiracy [or hard, or holy]; neither be in fear of what they fear, nor [make others afraid and] in dread.</span></i></b></li>
<li><b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">13: The Lord of hosts—regard Him as holy and honor His holy name [by regarding Him as your only hope of safety], and let Him be your fear and let Him be your dread [lest you offend Him by your fear of man and distrust of Him]. </span></i></b></li>
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Every century in history has brought fearful possibilities for Christians worldwide. Many thought those were indications of the soon return of Jesus. But it never happened. </div>
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Yes it is true the times we are living in are uncertain and there could be serious ramifications. But we certainly don't know and only God knows what is truly going on. Sadly, millions of Christians all over the nation and other parts of the world live in fear and trepidation because of a report or comment made by others. <br />
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The dictionary definition of "trepidation" is <span style="color: #660000;">"<i>a feeling of fear that causes you to hesitate because you think something bad or unpleasant is going to happen" </i></span> Don't look at something someone else posts or comments on and immediately believe for the worst. Let the peace of God in your heart be your guide. God knows and can warn you if there is something you need to do to protect yourself. </div>
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People say you can't hide your head in the sand. But we are also commanded by God's word in <i><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>Proverbs 3:5-6 (AMP) to "Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding." vs 6 "In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths. "</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></i></div>
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According to <i style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Isaiah 8:13</span></i><b> </b><span style="color: #0c343d; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">The Lord of hosts—regard Him as holy and honor His holy name [by regarding Him as your only hope of safety]," </span><b> God is our only hope of safety</b>. <b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">"and let Him be your fear and let Him be your dread [lest you offend Him by your fear of man and distrust of Him]." </span></i></b><b> We offend God by not trusting in Him. </b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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The bible says, in the last days men's hearts will fail them for fear. Fear is the total opposite of faith. We cannot have fear and faith at the same time. We need to encourage one another to have faith and trust in the Lord. </div>
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One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 91.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #0c343d;">Vs.1 "He who [a]<b>dwells in the secret place</b> of the Most High shall remain <b>stable and fixed </b>under the shadow of the Almighty [<b>Whose power no foe can withstand</b>]." Vs.2 "I will say of the Lord, He is my <b>Refuge and my Fortress</b>, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I<b> [confidently] trust!"</b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #0c343d;">Vs.3 "For [then] <b>He will deliver</b> you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.." <b> </b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><br /></b></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">God bless you as you stay in His presence and trust in the Lord God Almighty. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Read my blog post. <b style="font-style: italic;"> </b></span><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><i><a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2015/01/overcoming-negatives_6.html">http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2015/01/overcoming-negatives_6.html</a> </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><i>Gil Howard-Browne</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><i>www.revivaltimes.com</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><i>www.encourageme.tv</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><i>www.podcast.revivaltimes.com </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-32554484067300675382015-02-05T21:56:00.091-05:002022-05-31T21:04:14.565-04:00Two Life Changing Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="passage-display-bcv" style="color: #073763;"><b>Matthew 18:21-22 </b></span><span class="passage-display-version" style="color: #073763;"><b> (AMPC)</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="passage-display-version" style="color: #073763;"><b><br /></b></span></div><span style="color: #073763;"><div class="verse" style="text-align: left;">
<div class="verse"><span class="text Matt-18-21" id="en-AMPC-23749"><b>21. Then Peter came up to Him and said, Lord, how many times may my brother sin against me and I forgive him and </b><b>let it go? [As many as] up to seven times?</b></span></div>
<div class="verse"><span class="text Matt-18-22" id="en-AMPC-23750"><b>22. Jesus answered him, I tell you, not up to seven times, but seventy times seven! (490 times)</b></span></div></div></span>
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<span style="color: #20124d;">There are two words that have life changing implications for us all. They are <b>"forgive"</b> and <b>"forget"</b> which God's word commands us to do, but are so hard for us, because of our memories. </span><br /><span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">The memories of<b> hurt, betrayal, desertion, trauma, danger</b> etc. are attached to emotions like<b> anger, resentment, fear, discouragement, loneliness</b> and more which are also stored in our brain's large capacity memory cells, (the cortex)</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">Things we encounter daily, like a comment someone makes or an event we see or hear, can trigger those memories and the associated emotion, and cause us to experience that moment again, even if it took place years ago. That is why forgiving and forgetting is so important for our well being which we will have to do frequently.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">It could be a friend or family member or worse, a spouse or child that caused you hurt and each time you see or hear from them, the associated memory and emotion rises up and immediately, we have to exercise forgiveness. </span><div><span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #20124d;">The truth is, even the person you are trying to forgive will have memories and emotions of negative things that took place in their lives that require them to forgive and forget regularly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;"><b>The question is, how do we overcome these negative memories</b>. The answer is to build many more positive memories and emotions than their are negative ones. The scriptures tell us <i><b>"<span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" style="background-color: white; color: black; font-size: 16px;"> but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude]</span>" </b></i>(Rom. 12:2 - Amplified Classic Version) </span></div><div><span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #20124d;">The ideals being new positive memories and the attitudes are the associated positive emotions of love, peace, joy and goodness. Over time, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, the negative memories fade and our lives take on a more positive direction.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">The minute a negative memory arises of past hurts or wrongs, we need forgive, and immediately redirect those thought processes to to what God says on the matter, by quoting a scripture or singing and making melody in our hearts and praising God. </span></div><div><span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #20124d;">Don't start rebuking the devil. He is not all seeing, all knowing and all powerful. Only God is and the devil does not control your thoughts, you do. Christians have taken "resist the devil and he will flee" to extremes, where they are resisting the devil almost every day for things he had nothing to do with and could not possibly do even if he wanted to.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">In fact, God's word is full of recommendations of things that we can do such as ...</span><br />
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<li><i><b><span style="color: #20124d;">"let the peace of God rule in your heart." Col.3:15. </span></b></i></li>
<li><i><b><span style="color: #20124d;">"Have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins. 1 Pet. 4:8. </span></b></i></li>
<li><i><b><span style="color: #20124d;">"The joy of the Lord is your strength" Neh. 8:10. </span></b></i></li>
<li><i><b><span style="color: #20124d;">"give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thes. 5:18</span></b></i></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #20124d;">You cannot be full of joy and anger at the same time. </span><span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You cannot be</span> full of peace and fear at the same time. </span><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #20124d;">The fruits of the Spirit, </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #4d5156; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control, </span></span><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #20124d;">dispel the works of the flesh, envy, jealousy, anger etc. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span></b></div>
<span style="color: #20124d;"><b><i>Look for, exercise and submit to the fruit of the Spirit daily</i></b> and allow them to become part of your new ideals and attitudes. God does not and cannot force them into us because of our free will, but we can embrace them and open the door of our hearts to allow them into our lives. </span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">If you find yourself dealing with negative memories and emotions, quickly forgive the person involved and ask the Holy Spirit, who is your comforter, teacher and guide, to help you, then begin to praise and worship Him and yield to God's presence and power.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">Fill your mind with good anointed worship and listen to good preaching and teaching and spend time in fellowship with God and His word.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">Be encouraged today.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">God bless you richly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #20124d;">Gil Howard-Browne</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;">www.revivaltimes.com</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;">www.revivaltimes.online</span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d;">www.podcast.revivaltimes.com</span><br />
<br /></div>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-50568823616463740922015-01-10T16:04:00.002-05:002015-01-10T16:06:37.798-05:00Are you a clone or an original.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_TImoUVjmvFzBaaTWs5BKRM2FPKddTZJf7zEXhEjxNngkJQD7R_VA52MzQPZ0HFewGgpyaME9XdZ_6dhtHyn6pU7519XftJoUkbOnpjE1_G0cANMVs2zHW9BUdIE_RXNsdB9rvQnsmw/s1600/YouAreUnique.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_TImoUVjmvFzBaaTWs5BKRM2FPKddTZJf7zEXhEjxNngkJQD7R_VA52MzQPZ0HFewGgpyaME9XdZ_6dhtHyn6pU7519XftJoUkbOnpjE1_G0cANMVs2zHW9BUdIE_RXNsdB9rvQnsmw/s1600/YouAreUnique.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><u><b>Are you a clone or an original.</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Psalm 139:14 "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." </span></i></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">The fact is, you are an original, made uniquely by God. God has an amazing plan for your life, which only He can perfect in you and through you. However, you may be under pressure to become a clone of someone's idea of how your life should be conducted. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">Don't get me wrong, we need strong believers in our lives who can encourage and admonish us, but the final result has to be a product of our deep relationship and fellowship with God and our submission to His word and will. The Holy Spirit dwelling within us has intimate knowledge of our strengths, weaknesses, hopes, dreams and desires. He knows how to direct us and correct us, to comfort us and quicken us, all within the boundaries of our will and our desire to yield to Him. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">I see people caught up in a false sense of loyalty to a Church or ministry, even though they may realise that something is amiss. They are being cloned into the image of a man or woman, not the image that God has for them. God genuinely loves you and cares for you and ALWAYS has the best blessing in mind for your life. God does not use and abuse people. He calls and equips them to be a blessing to the Body of Christ, but it is never by force.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">If God has called you to serve in a local Church, believe me, you will blessed and be a blessing. But I have seen a lot of the "behind the scenes" of various ministries and I will tell you it's not pleasant. There is a lot of stress, anxiety and competition. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Rom. 8:15 "For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father!" </span></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><span style="color: #34495e;">Our Christian life is not and should not be a life of slavery to some man made cause, but one of purpose and passion, direction and dedication, all inspired by the Greater One who dwells in us and by God's word that has been hidden in our hearts. </span></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">There is no point in being saved from a messed up life only to be caught up in another messed up life in the Name of Christ. Jesus came to give us a more abundant life. A clone is a copy of something else, that looks like and behaves like the original. We are to become more like the Master and full of and controlled by His Spirit just like Jesus was. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Luke 4:4 "Then Jesus, full of and controlled by the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led in [by] the [Holy] Spirit" </span></i></b><span style="color: #34495e;">The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness, where He fasted for forty days and overcame temptation on three occasions. He was not distressed and did not come out of that experience, defeated and weak, but came out victorious and strong. </span><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Vs. 14 " Then Jesus went back full of and under the power of the [Holy] Spirit into Galilee, and the fame of Him spread through the whole region round about." </span></i></b><span style="color: #34495e;">He had received a fresh anointing in preparation for the next phase of the ministry that God had ordained for His life.</span></span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #34495e; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><span style="color: #34495e;">God is well able to make you into the vessel He wants you to be. But it can only happen when we yield to His direction and correction. </span><b><i><span style="color: #660000;"> </span></i></b></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Jude 1:24 "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy," </span></i></b><span style="color: #34495e;">This scripture speaks volumes. He is ABLE to keep us from falling. That speaks of protection from the pitfalls, trials and temptations of life. To "present us faultless" does not suggest you and I will be perfect, but it speaks of being clothed in the righteousness of Christ. God is recognizing Christ in us the hope of Glory. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">2 Cor. 4:7 "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." </span></i></b><span style="color: #34495e;">The vessel is perfected by the treasure God put on the inside. We are to stop feeling inadequate because we cannot meet the standard that others set for us, but instead,</span><b><i><span style="color: #660000;"> "</span></i></b></span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Lato, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i>Arise [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you—rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!" Isa. 60:1 Amp. </i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Lato, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span>
<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Lato, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-54642872263000203332015-01-07T14:52:00.003-05:002015-01-07T14:52:37.335-05:00Is Dignity your Downfall? <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><i><span style="font-size: large;">Is Dignity your Downfall?</span></i></u></b></div>
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<i><span style="color: #660000;">Sam. 6:16 " Now as the ark of the Lord came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David <b>leaping and whirling before the Lord</b>; and <b>she despised him in her heart."</b></span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #660000;">Vs. 20 Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”</span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #660000;">Vs. 21 So David said to Michal, “It was before the Lord, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel. <b>Therefore I will play music before the Lord.</b>" </span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #660000;">Vs. 22 "<b>And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight.</b></span></i>"<br />
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Worship in the majority of Christendom, has become staid and robotic. We are presented by a list of songs chosen by the worship team and accompanied by skilled musicians and singers. Great sounding worship, but I have often looked back across the audience to find stoic faces looking forward, with mouths hardly moving. <br />
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What's wrong with this picture? It is a lack of audience participation. Having led worship for the past 44 years, I absolutely know you cannot force people to worship. I have seen worship leaders berate the audience and even insult them in an attempt to get them to worship.<br />
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The problem is worship is something that has to come from the heart. It is a desire to worship God and can only come from someone who has personally met the Master and had a relationship with God on the inside. Worship is an expression of how we feel about God. <i><span style="color: #660000;">" God has prepared (made and keeps ready) for those who love Him [[a]<b>who hold Him in affectionate reverence, </b>promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed]." 1 Cor.2:9 Amp. </span></i><i><b><span style="color: #660000;">"We love Him because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19 </span></b></i><br />
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The sad reality is that there are probably many Christians who love God and have had a personal relationship with Him, but are holding back because of their concept of "dignity" Religion has taught them that they need to be dignified before the Lord. The dictionary meaning of dignity is ... . <b>the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect</b>. - <b> a composed or serious manner or style.</b><br />
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With the dignified mindset, worship becomes composed and serious, rather than joyful and expressive. Expressive worship is a wonderful thing and can lead to tremendous breakthrough in our demeanor. <span style="color: #660000;"><i> Isa. 61:3 "To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion—to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, </i><b style="font-style: italic;">the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit </b><i>... " </i> Amp.</span><br />
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The question remains ... Is Dignity your Downfall? Are you missing out on a heavenly blessing because you are locked in the human restraints of dignity. <br />
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Over the many years of revival meetings, the greatest breakthroughs we have witnessed in the lives of people, was when they abandoned their dignity and allowed the Holy Spirit to fill them to the point that in the natural it looked silly. Some were like that for days, but the outcome was amazing. <br />
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I believe that dignity and pride go hand in hand. The word of God says<i><b><span style="color: #660000;"> "be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble" 1 Pet. 5:5 </span></b></i>When we humble ourselves before the Lord, and allow His awesome glory to fill us, dignity will depart and victory will come. <br />
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We call it ... getting lost in His glory ... Soaking in His presence ... becoming saturated with His anointing. The most profound breakthroughs in my life have not come from serious moments in God's presence, but powerful encounters with the Spirit of God that left me empty of self and full of Him. <br />
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The Apostle Paul prayed for the Church daily ... <i>Eph. 3:16 "May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with <b>mighty power in the inner man </b>by the [Holy] Spirit [<b>Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality</b>]. </i>That is not some dignified experience but one amazing encounter. <br />
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I am not saying we have to get silly in the presence of the Lord. But dignity will cause you to despise the lack of dignity in others, just like Saul's daughter Michal. <i style="color: #660000;"> </i>Victory does not come from a physical act but from a yielded heart. Dignity is a state of mind, but a yielded heart leads to a free spirit at which point dignity is abandoned and God's blessing flows. <br />
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Let me encourage you to allow God to fill you to overflowing, and change you radically on the inside. WE ALL NEED IT OFTEN.<br />
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Listen to this audio clip. <iframe frameborder="0" height="100" scrolling="no" src="http://www.podbean.com/media/player/audio/postId/1743810/url/%252Fe%252Ffill-me-to-overflowing%252F/initByJs/1/auto/1" width="100%"></iframe> <br />
God's richest blessing<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
www.revivaltimes.com<br />
www.podcast.revivaltimes.com<br />
www.encourageme.tv<br />
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<br />Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-58668134534396480992015-01-06T14:42:00.001-05:002019-05-24T22:01:49.469-04:00Overcoming Negatives<b><i><u><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">Overcoming Negatives</span></u></i></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">It is human nature to focus on the negative rather than the positive. The media and social networks, see to it that we get our daily dose of negative. We as believers are required to walk by faith. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">That means our trust in God overcomes the impulse to panic in the face of adversity. It's a learned behavior and gets easier over time as we witness the hand of God at work in our lives. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;"><i><span style="color: #660000;">Phil. 4:8 "whatsoever things are true, </span></i></span><i><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">whatsoever things are honest, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">whatsoever things are just, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">whatsoever things are pure, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">whatsoever things are lovely, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things"</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">2 Cor. 10:5 </span></span></i><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><i> "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;"</i></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "lato" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><span style="color: #34495e;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "lato" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><span style="color: #34495e;">When you next feel the urge to worry or get distressed about a situation, immediately begin to change your train of thought. Listen to good worship, and uplifting preaching. If you can't pray in English, pray in the heavenly tongue. It's God's gift to us</span><i><span style="color: #660000;"> " Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." Rom. 8:26 </span></i></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">The story of Jesus sleeping in the boat during a raging storm is a good example of how we should be. The antidote for worry and anxiety is the love, peace and joy of the Lord. No one has arrived at the place of perfect faith and trust. It does not matter if you are in the ministry or not, the best preacher, or that you appear to others to be strong spiritually, everyone has to overcome the negative thoughts and situations that are part of our daily existence on earth. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;"><span style="color: #34495e;">Today's victory is wonderful, but tomorrow is a new day with new challenges and blessings. I have to remind myself daily to walk by faith expecting life not death, blessing and not cursing. </span><i><span style="color: #660000;">Deut. 30:19 "</span></i></span><i><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: Lato, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.696px;">I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;"> "</span></span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "lato" , sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"></span></span></span></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;"><span style="color: #34495e; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The best way to overcome negative thoughts is to feed our minds with positive uplifting stuff. The mind is trainable and the more we renew our minds with the Word of God, the more our minds begin to think positively. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;"><span style="color: #34495e; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;"><span style="color: #34495e; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b>Garbage in, garbage out. Goodness in, goodness out. </b></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">Let us agree to encourage each other. Let us help each other focus on the goodness of God (Rom. 2:4) and the blessings of the Lord that makes rich and adds no sorrow. (Prov. 10:22) Let us focus on the "goodness and mercy that will follow us all the days of our lives". (Ps. 23:6) God says "I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth. I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (Isa. 43:19) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;">God bless you richly,</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.696px;">Gil Howard-Browne</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #34495e; font-size: 16px; line-height: 19.6959991455078px;"><br /></span></span>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-33046694612171793652014-12-13T13:06:00.000-05:002014-12-13T13:06:20.684-05:00Gossip ... the disease of the ChurchEver heard the phrase "the Christian grapevine" I'm sure you have. It's the gossip that stems from hearsay that we as Christians need to guard against. All of us have indulged in this "disease" of the Body of Christ. Often the gossip is the truth, but the truth is hidden by the way it is delivered and subsequently passed on. It's the "fluff and stuff" that is added to the truth because of the way the receiver interprets what they heard and so the story gets muddied and tainted. The only way it can be stopped is when we check our own hearts and motives. Are we repeating what we heard out of a heart of compassion and a sincere desire to be part of the solution or because we derived some sort of pleasure in repeating the story. <br />
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Eph 4:15 says "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:" The "in love" part is a heart thing not just a mental assent and we will know the difference at the time if we are in submission to the Holy Spirit. I have found this to be true in my own life. In the course of a conversation, I was about to say something when I felt a check not to say it and immediately changed the direction. It was like the Holy Spirit was applying the brakes to prevent me from going there. Even though we may be talking to someone we trust, they may repeat it and pretty soon, the fourth and fifth generation have the story wrong. <br />
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Sadly, gossip serves no purpose other than to divide the Church, because people are quick to take sides. I have heard the stories of friendships that have suddenly ended for no aparent reason, only to find out years later it was because of gossip. I have probably been a victim myself as I have had friends who suddenly stopped being friends. There is not much we can do to stop others from gossipping, but we can stop the gossip from being disseminated from our own lips. The buck stops here. <br />
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When I was in my early 30's I was fellowshipping with a group of ministers and leaders and the conversation began to be about other ministers and what they were doing. The rumors and gossip began to flow and pretty soon I began to feel very uncomfortable. I excused myself and went for a walk. As I was thinking about the gossip I began to speak to the Lord about the experience. God showed me a vision of the group talking about people in other cities. As they were talking, it was as though webs were forming a canopy accross the country, that became thicker and thicker until it blocked the light of the sun and it got darker and darker. <br />
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I asked the Lord what that meant and He said as we were engaging in gossip, the opposite of truth, it was preventing His glory from shining through. So I asked Him what we could do about this and He said, "begin to speak blessing over them" and He showed me another vision of us speaking blessing, life, love and peace over them. As we did that, the strands of web began to snap and the light began to shine through once again. <br />
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I went back and told the group and asked them to join me in praying for and blessing those who were gossipped about. There was such a breakthrough of God's presence in that place and repentant hearts. It was a lesson I never forgot and God has had to remind me of this from time to time. If you find yourself being dragged into a gossip session, remember "the buck stops here" Immediately ask those present to pray with you and you will see a change in the atmosphere almost immediately.<br />
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Eph 4:25 " Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another." Truth is something this Nation needs and when the Church begins to walk in truth and honesty, it will trickle down into the secular world and " his truth shall be thy shield and buckler (armor) " Psalm 91:4Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-50488452730331579852014-01-09T21:22:00.002-05:002014-08-17T04:11:17.782-04:00The Purpose of the Anointing<div id="yiv7675566549">
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><b>1 Jn 2:27</b> "But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will[a] abide in Him."</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><b>Acts 10:38</b> "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him."</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><b>Acts 1:8 </b> "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Many believers confuse the anointing that <b>works through us</b> with the anointing that<b> works in us</b>. </span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">The first one enables us to function in our calling, to minister God's word and be used to touch people's lives via the Gifts of the Spirit. The latter one is the anointing that abides in us and corrects, refreshes, heals, comforts us, and guides us into all truth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Jesus was anointed by God and went about performing miracles. When He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness </span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">not to minister but to fast and pray</span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">, the bible says he was <span style="color: #990000;"><i>"full of and controlled by the Spirit" </i></span><b style="color: #990000; font-style: italic;">Luke 4:1-2 </b> <br /><br />Being full of the Holy Spirit, the anointing, the devil had a most frustrating time, as he tried several times to tempt Jesus and failed miserably. <b><i><span style="color: #990000;"> Verse 13</span></i></b> says<i><span style="color: #990000;"> "</span></i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season."</span></i> </span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">It was the anointing in Jesus that prevented the devil from tempting Him, and as <i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Isa. 10:27 </b>(Amp) says, "</span></i></span><i><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;">The yoke shall be destroyed because of fatness [which prevents it from going around your neck]"</span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></span></i><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Fatness or oil as some translations read, is symbolic of the anointing. The anointing in Jesus prevented the yoke of bondage from coming on Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Our ministries are very important and much needed by the body of Christ. But there would be no point if God anointed us greatly and used us mightily in touching the lives of others, but we were failures physically, morally and spiritually. God gave us the anointing, according to <span style="color: #990000;"><b>1 John 2:27</b></span> to help us and teach us how to abide in Jesus. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyone can preach and with the right training can be quite eloquent and articulate, but if it is devoid of the Power of God, then it is just more of man's wisdom and lacks the touch of God in the lives of the hearers that will bring them healing, love, joy, peace, and victory over sin, oppression, depression and the myriad human ailments that rule the lives of people everywhere. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">The Apostle Paul addressed this in <i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>1 Cor 2</b> <b>Vs. 4</b> "And my language and my message were not set forth in persuasive (enticing and plausible) words of wisdom, but they were in demonstration of the [Holy] Spirit and power [[d]a proof by the Spirit and power of God, operating on me and stirring in the minds of my hearers the most holy emotions and thus persuading them], </span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">The demonstration of the Spirit and power, is the anointing on Paul for ministry and it worked while he was preaching <i><span style="color: #990000;">"stirring in the minds of my hearers the most holy emotions and thus persuading them".</span></i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Preach the Word of God by the anointing then allow the Holy Spirit to make that word real to the hearts of the hearers and let Him confirm His word with signs following. The description <span style="color: #990000;"><i>"the most holy emotions"</i></span> indicates that this was not on an intellectual level, but was emotional, working in the psychological part of our being. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">There are a lot of Christians with a lot of word in them but they are dead spiritually. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. 2 Cor. 3:6.</span></i></span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #990000;"> </span></i></span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Without the anointing of the Holy Spirit in and through our lives, the ministry will depend on our ability, strength and personality. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Without the anointing at work in me, changing me, correcting me, and bringing me into a deeper walk with God, I am going to eventually fail morally, physically or spiritually or all of the above. If the word was the only thing we needed then it would not have been necessary for Jesus to </span><i><span style="color: #990000;"><span class="versenum" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15.555556297302246px;">" pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;</span><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"> and be our teacher, comforter and guide. " <b> John 14:16 </b> </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">If you diminish the role of the anointing of the Holy Spirit in your life, you negate the purpose of the Cross. <b> If Jesus did not pay the price for our sin, the veil of separation between us and God would still exist.</b> But His sacrifice opened the way for us to receive the indwelling of the presence and power of God, His anointing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Jesus final words to the disciples prior to ascending into heaven was<i><span style="color: #990000;"> <b>Acts 1:8</b> "But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" </span></i> The word power literally means, God's ability, efficiency and might. The anointing that we receive from God gives us access to God's ability, efficiency and might in everything we do. So when we have an ongoing relationship with the Holy Spirit, He will teach us all things that are necessary to fulfill the will and purpose of God for our lives. <i><span style="color: #990000;"> "and ye shall be witnesses unto me"</span></i> speaks of God's anointing for ministry wherever and however He directs us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Paul prayed daily for the Church, in <i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Eph 3 </b> <b>Vs. 16</b> "that He would grant you according to the riches of His Glory to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man, ... " The amplified bible explains it better. "May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]." </span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Paul speaks about the inner man or the spirit of man, being strengthened and reinforced. We need that strengthening and reinforcing in us if we are to succeed in the ministry that God by His Spirit wants to work through us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>"The Holy Spirit, Himself, indwelling in our innermost being and personality".</i> This speaks of an intimacy that is life changing, affecting spirit and our personalities. It speaks of a change of heart and desires. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="color: #990000;">Vs. 19</span></i></b> speaks about being <i><span style="color: #990000;">"filled with all the fullness of God. "</span></i> All of this prayer that Paul prayed daily for the Church, concerns us as individuals and has nothing to do with ministry. God is vitally interested in making sure we are conforming to His will and purpose for our lives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="color: #990000;">Vs. 20 </span></i></b>concludes ... <span style="color: #990000;"><i>"Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]—</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Paul is describing the incredible role the anointing, the power of God, has within us and what it can do for us. Every believer desperately needs to experience and be filled with the anointing. There are incredible things God wants to do in us and through us. It is His anointing within us that will accomplish this purpose.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">There is so much more that God has for us personally and through us for ministry. </span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>1 Cor. 2 vs 9</b> </span><span class="versenum" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: top;"> "</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, on the contrary, as the Scripture says, What eye has not seen and ear has not heard and has not entered into the heart of man, [all that] God has prepared (made and keeps ready) for those who love Him </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">who hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed].</span></span></i></div>
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<span class="text 1Cor-2-10" id="en-AMP-28403" style="color: #990000;"><i><span class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;"><b>Vs. 10</b></span><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man’s scrutiny].</i></span></div>
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Who hold Him in affectionate reverence ... speaks of a deep relationship of worship and reverence. <i><span style="color: #990000;"> " Promptly obeying and gratefully recognizing"</span></i> ... speaks of an attitude that we develop over time as we yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to perfect and change us. Spend time with Him. Worship Him and reverence His presence in your life. Allow the anointing to quicken (make alive) you, and to refresh, correct and direct you. <span style="color: #990000;"><i><b>Gal. 5:16</b> "</i></span><span style="font-size: 15.555556297302246px;"><span style="color: #990000;"><i>I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.</i></span>" </span>The word "lust" literally means, a strong desire of any kind, whether good or bad. We can have a good idea, but it may not be a God idea. We are to be led by the Spirit in all we do. It is a learned behavior, and over time, we get better at hearing the Holy Spirit speaking to us from within. </div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Summing up.</u></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">The anointing that abides in us is to help us in our personal lives, to overcome the works of the flesh and to develop the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">The anointing upon us is to help us to function in the ministry God has ordained for our lives. That anointing will enable the gifts of the Spirit to function so that we are not appealing to the intellect of the hearer but we become the vessel through which God works to touch the hungry, hurting and lost human race and reveal the very nature of God through us to the world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;">Gil Howard-Browne</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://revivaltimes.com/">Revivaltimes.com</a></span><br />
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Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-907488057187236022014-01-05T12:58:00.001-05:002015-02-20T17:08:58.995-05:00Walking in the Spirit. <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Recently there has been debate on facebook regarding the dangers of the "Hypergrace" teaching that is prevalent in the Body of Christ today. It was sparked by an article by Dr. Michael Brown, in which he rightfully stated that this can lead to a large falling away of believers from God. In the article he spoke of how the pendulum has swung from the old legalism, to grace, to hypergrace. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Hypergrace is indeed a serious problem in the Church today. But people fell away from God under the old "legalism" teaching, as well as under the "grace" teaching, and now are still falling away from God under the "hypergrace" teaching. This was the same for the "dicipleship movement" and a dozen other now forgotten movements.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">In my 45 years of ministry, I have seen this happening in every decade in denominations across the board. Doctrines come and go and what was a fad 20 years ago, is now a distant memory. <b>The reason is simple, God is not and idea or a doctrine and serving Him is not achieved by following a list of do's and dont's. </b> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><b><u>So what is the answer</u></b>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">I believe, that if Christians don't have a life changing relationship with the Holy Spirit and learn to walk in the Spirit, they will get caught up in all these excesses. Our preaching should not be with man's wisdom, as the Apostle Paul puts it in <i><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">1 Cor. 2, but in the demonstration of the Spirit and Power.</span></b></i> The amplified version says it well. <b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">"but they were in demonstration of the [Holy] Spirit and power [[a]a proof by the Spirit and power of God, operating on me and stirring in the minds of my hearers the most holy emotions and thus persuading them],"</span></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">Walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh" Galatians 5:16-26 </span></i></b> The word lust is literally a strong desire of any kind whether good or bad. When we live by the dictates of the flesh, we are carnal. Carnal preachers will produce carnal Christians. We need men of God who are sold out to God, who love the presence of God and will teach the people God sends them. how to walk in the Spirit like they do.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">The fact that we can invite the Holy Spirit to dwell in us is a direct result of what Jesus did on the cross. He tore down the veil of separation between God and man and made it possible for us to receive the free gift of eternal life, but also the Holy Spirit whom Jesus said would be our comforter, teacher and guide. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">One of the last things Jesus said to His disciples before He ascended into heaven was the we would receive power after that the Holy Spirit is come upon us. The word power, from dunamis, literally means, God's ability, efficiency and might. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Jesus last instructions to His people was to be filled with the dunamis, God's ability, efficiency and might. <b><i><span style="color: #0c343d;">1 Jn. 2:27 says, "the anointing (dunamis) which you have received of Him abides in you and will teach you all things even how to abide in Christ.</span></i></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">The law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus has made us free from the law of sin and death. That's what Grace did for us. Grace made all of the above possible, so that we can live by the inward law's that God writes on the tables of our heart. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">It's not man's wisdom or man's ideas and doctrines, but God's life giving word made real to us by the power of the Holy Spirit living on the inside of us.</span></span>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-22623744414307284412012-03-07T12:49:00.003-05:002015-02-10T15:00:25.903-05:00When my head is anointed, my cup will run over.<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: x-large;"><i></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: x-large;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">"...thou anointest my head with oil; </span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><b>my cup runneth over</b>. " <b>Ps. 23:5</b></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I think the reason for the anointing on David's head is that his head was probably the thing that prevented his cup from running over. Most of the time, our heads will get in the way of God's blessing. It is how we think that molds and shapes our lives. People with negative attitudes never really get anywhere. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I have found that when my thinking is in line with God's word, my attitude towards Him and His purpose changes. The word of God declares<i style="color: black;"> "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ"</i> 2 Cor. 10:5 </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"> We really need the help of the Holy Spirit in the area of our thinking. Christians focus on negative things too much. Every year some new crisis arises that gives Christians reason to panic. Fear grips the church and stifles productivity. Doctrines are birthed out of those fears and people, who are gullible, believe in it and become tainted by those warped views. </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: medium;">We are the ones that need to do the casting down of imaginations and rampant thoughts that try to infiltrate our minds. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: medium;">A good relationship with God will protect our minds. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: medium;">An intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit will keep us thinking right thoughts. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Seeing our problems like Jesus sees them, will transform our thinking and bring our thoughts into captivity in Christ. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">After all, there is no problem too big for God to handle. </span><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"For with God nothing shall be impossible " </span> </i><span style="font-size: medium;">Lk.1:37 </span><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible." </span> </i><span style="font-size: medium;">Mt.10:27 He has given us <i style="color: black;">" ... exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature,"</i> 2 Peter 1:4 He said <i><span style="color: blue;">" ... and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."</span> </i>Heb.13:5 </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">So if we have the promises, what is the problem? It is our thinking. People make the wrong decisions for various reasons, and then blame the devil and even God. We are responsible for guarding our hearts and positioning ourselves for the blessings of God.<i style="color: black;"> " Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."</i><i style="color: black;"> </i>Proverbs 4:23 We are commanded to <i style="color: black;"> "...stir up the gift of God, which is in thee ..."</i> 2 Timothy 1:6 <i style="color: black;"> "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;"</i> Ephesians 5:19 </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">That is why we need the oil of the Holy Spirit to be poured upon our heads. </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Natural oil has many uses.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">It is a lubricant that will stop friction.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">It can be used to stop corrosion.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">It will stop a hinge from squeaking. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">We need the</span><i style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">" ... oil of joy for mourning ..."</span></i><span style="font-size: small;"><i style="color: black;"> </i>Isaiah 61:3<i> </i></span><span style="font-size: medium;">When the oil of joy comes, your cup will run over and mourning and sorrow will have to leave. An overflowing cup will result in others getting blessed. Too many Christians try to minister from an empty cup. An empty cup, no matter how beautiful it is, has nothing to give. It does not matter how much gold and glitter adorns the cup, if it is empty it is for show only.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">When your cup is empty, you are dry and have nothing to give. You will resort to gimmicks and programs in order to satisfy the cup. None of that satisfies your hungry and thirsty heart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">You yearn for much more. Your spirit cries out for more<i>. <span style="color: blue;">" As the hart (or deer) panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God."</span></i> Ps 42:1. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">We need water of life to refresh us and the oil of the Holy Spirit to anoint us and the power of the Holy Spirit to equip us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">God bless you richly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Gil Howard-Browne</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/">www.revivaltimes.com</a> </span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Main Ministry Site)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.podcast.revivaltimes.com/">www.podcast.revivaltimes.com</a> </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Worship Podcast Site)</span></span></div>
Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-22869919301329597622012-02-28T11:06:00.004-05:002014-05-15T15:12:03.925-04:00Is "Doom and Gloom" or "Abundant Life and Blessing" in your Future?<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<i>2 - Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains be shaken into the midst of the seas, 3 - Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling and tumult. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! 4 - There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High. 5 - God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God will help her right early [at the dawn of the morning]. 6 - The nations raged, the kingdoms tottered and were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted. 7 -<b> The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our Refuge (our Fortress and High Tower)</b>. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!</i></div>
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I regularly receive an email from someone wanting me to view a video or article on how bad things are in the world and how we are facing great danger. The frequency "doom and gloom" posts have escalated in recent months and I am being asked to comment on some conspiracy theory, or prediction of great impending doom.<br />
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Now I am not disputing the the fact that the USA and the rest of the world is facing some major challenges. But consider for a moment, has there ever been a time in history when the world has been a perfect place. Every century has had it's moments of calamity, disasters and wars. Christians are particularly vulnerable because of our understanding or lack thereof, of the "end times" mentioned in the Word of God. Many have built whole ministries around end time prophecy. But Jesus actually told us "take no thought for tomorrow" <b><span style="color: black;"><b><i style="font-weight: normal;">Matt 6:25</i></b></span> </b> and "occupy till I come" Luke 19:12-19<br />
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I remember back in the 60's and 70's, how many preachers were preaching about the soon return of Jesus and how wars, earthquakes, extreme weather, were an indication that the second coming would happen in the next few years. <br />
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There is a real danger in misinterpreting end time prophecy. There are "end time" preachers who avidly believed that Jesus was coming soon, who have preached the message for 30 or 40 years of their ministry, and are now dead and buried, but life is still going on. The only problem is, thousands were influenced by their teachings and missed God's plan for their lives. We have a great responsibility in spreading God's word and to <i>"speak every man truth with his neighbour:"</i><b> Eph 4:25</b></div>
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The fact is Jesus could come back tomorrow but He may only come back in 20, 30 or 100 years from now. Who knows. Jesus said<i> "But of that [exact] day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father" </i></div>
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<b>Matthew 24:33-36 (AMP)</b> <b><i> 33 - So also when you see these signs, [a]all taken together, coming to pass, you may know [b]of a surety that He is near, at the very doors. 34 - Truly I tell you, this generation ([c]the whole multitude of people living at the same time, [d]in a definite, [e]given period) will not pass away till all these things [f]taken together take place. 35 - [g]Sky and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. 36 - But of that [exact] day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father</i></b>.</div>
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Don't get caught up in all the doom and gloom theories that are flying about these days. If you take a close look, you will usually find, there is a book, DVD or some product for sale. The article/video is designed to stir emotions and thus generate business. </div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> </span></b><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Towards the middle of 1998, I published to my web site a section on Y2K. <b><a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/discuss/Y2KOne.html" target="_blank">Read Article</a> </b> My comments were <i> "Non event, Hype and a money making opportunity." I said "During the first week of Jan. 2000, a lot of "Feed the Hungry Ministries" would be birthed." </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Well, January 1, 2000 came and went with no sign of the dreaded bug. What was all the hype about. One answer . . . Money!!!! Money fueled the Y2K bug theory. I believe many pastors and leaders were sincere in their efforts to warn their congregations, but they were caught up in the hype of the Y2K bug info being divulged all over the globe. People began to purchase survival supplies and purchased electricity generators. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">A lot of money was made by churches, ministries and secular corporations. Fortunes were spent on supplies and bug fixes, sadly, most was not necessary. For example, we were told that most desktop PC's would fail unless they were upgraded with BIOS fixes and other software upgrades. Well all of my computers were working on January 1st, including a six year old computer and software. Sadly, I met a number of people over the next 5 to 6 years who still had lots of Y2K rations stacked in a cupboard or box somewhere in an attic or garage. ( Read the <a href="http://revivaltimes.com/Main%20Pages/TRMbody.html" target="_blank">follow-up article I published the first week of January 2000</a>)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">We are not to put our heads in the sand and live in denial. But we need to learn to trust the Holy Spirit, our comforter, teacher and guide to lead us and warn us if necessary. Every year brings new challenges and opportunities. But God has a plan and His plan will be fulfilled if we trust Him. <b> </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span><b><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><b>Ps 37:25</b></u> "I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. "(KJV) </i><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><b> </b></u></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><b><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><b>Ps 23:1</b></u> "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. "(KJV)</i><small style="font-weight: normal;"> </small></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><i style="font-weight: normal;"><u><b>Matt 6:25-26</b></u> "Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? "(KJV)</i></b></span></div>
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Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-74085172333643073472012-01-22T22:52:00.005-05:002012-03-26T16:55:16.240-04:00What are you searching for?<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3fF9Pq4UztD4YCHIgA-Nc7QrTFyZS2bbyHhmDU-1mMpkZgW5uvc4hMdPkPjDk939QGMm3KBsfRjOqhESXsigIc3cxolRY8_Mq3Bdq_qgKsHNhbcqkKeqcBx05fDMfHPcaChGddsFyQY/s1600/Wave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3fF9Pq4UztD4YCHIgA-Nc7QrTFyZS2bbyHhmDU-1mMpkZgW5uvc4hMdPkPjDk939QGMm3KBsfRjOqhESXsigIc3cxolRY8_Mq3Bdq_qgKsHNhbcqkKeqcBx05fDMfHPcaChGddsFyQY/s320/Wave.jpg" width="320" /></a><i><b> </b></i><b style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><u>2 Timothy 1:7</u> </b><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><b>"God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind"</b></i> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There are 41 posts on this blog covering a number of life issues that people face daily. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">About 70 percent of the visitors are being sent from Google searches and the balance from my own web site and a few others that link to my blog.<br />
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<u>Listed below, are the top 6 most viewed posts</u>.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><i>God will keep you in Perfect Peace.</i></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i> </i> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2011/04/when-will-answer-come-how-much-longer.html">When will the answer come ... how much longer must we wait.</a></i> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i> </i> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2011/03/do-not-worry-or-be-anxious-about.html">Do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow.</a></i> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i> </i> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2011/02/be-of-good-cheer-jesus-overcame-world.html">Be of Good Cheer - Jesus overcame the world.</a></i> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i> </i> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2011/06/secret-place-hope-peace-and-quiet.html">The Secret Place brings hope, peace and quiet confidence.</a></i></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><a class="GKFKIV-FT" href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2012/01/peace-that-passes-understanding.html">Peace that Passes Understanding.</a> </i> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">These are the key words or phrases people are searching for, and it confirms where we are in the world today. Recent polls in the USA show that the majority of Americans are concerned about the economy. There are 40 million Americans on food stamps and unemployment is at almost 9%.</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I posted the blog <a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2011/03/god-will-keep-you-in-perfect-peace.html">God will keep you in Perfect Peace.</a> on March 11, 2011 and it has stayed at the top of the list since then. People REALLY NEED PEACE in this time of history. There is such a need in the world and many are suffering greatly because of lack of finances and in many cases, lost jobs. </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It is easy for me to simply say, "Trust the Lord" But for the people facing the situation, it is easier said than done. I can only speak for myself and say, I have been on both sides of the fence. I have been in prosperity and at the brink of poverty. The truth is, peace is needed in both situations. </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There are many extremely prosperous people who have no peace at all. They have all the money the average person could only dream of, yet they don't have peace. Peace does not come from material things and pleasure. Peace is internal and is a "fruit of the Spirit" Fruit has to grow and mature. </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Peace starts in my spirit because of the presence of the Lord, and I have to learn how to yield my mind to that peace. I have been in the middle of a financial crisis so deep that I never thought I would ever recover. But that was almost 30 years ago. That crisis lasted about two years and I learned how the mind can conjure all sorts of bad scenarios that make you loose hope. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">But I also found out that none of those thoughts had any foundation at all. In fact, none of the bad things my mind conjured up ever came to pass. Out of that desperate situation, God brought one of the greatest blessings in my life and marriage I had ever experienced. God made a way where there was no way. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I discovered the Joy of the Lord is my strength. I am not talking about a by faith "spiritual joy". I am talking about a literal joy, where laughter takes hold and a "joy unspeakable" fills your entire being. It's like God's anesthetic which takes your attention off of your situation and places it on His incredible joy. It's a joy that mends a broken heart and puts hope back into a hopeless heart. It's a joy that takes the focus off of me and puts it on Him. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The after effect of joy is His peace. <b> It's like knowing a good outcome, inside as opposed to a bad outcome, outside. </b> God's peace allows us to see His provision when our understanding sees the result of our bad circumstances. It's like looking through God's eyes and seeing His plan and purpose unfolding, instead of through our eyes, that see only the circumstances surrounding us.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now I am the first to admit, that we have had many difficult times since then where we have had to trust God to see us through. But it is a lot easier now, as I have learned how not to let my thoughts get out of hand.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The word of God says <i><b>"God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind"</b></i> 2 Timothy 1:7 Fear is the opposite of faith. Fear is faith in reverse gear. Fear overwhelms us and makes us doubt God's ability to deliver us from our situation. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><u><br />
</u></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><u>HOW CAN THIS HELP ME</u>? You ask.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As soon as the negative thought comes into your mind, there are two directions you can take. One is to give into the thought and dwell on it until fear manifests. The other is to immediately say to yourself ... "I will not allow my mind to dictate the outcome, but I will trust God who has promised to deliver me and be my provider. Immediately begin to re-direct your thoughts away from the negative. God sees only blessing for your life and will always make a way of escape. So I have to begin to think His thoughts which are to be found in His word. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I love this old song "Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of the earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace."</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">God bless you</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Gil Howard-Browne</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/">www.revivaltimes.com</a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.encourageme.tv/">www.encourageme.tv</a> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-38070120088582383772012-01-13T10:41:00.003-05:002013-07-26T16:20:28.339-04:00Peace that Passes Understanding.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hKnOgjeljSWx6wCKcJkvMu1GWao5ShqKynJ6PhomUT5bEaN81CVqCp0cFJjCTMHs29d0B-Q3iS0s7Oi7Pxrzs9ix08LpnSsRezbFodIgW72Dnozw1YmpmJ1essVjOU70wdPnZ8G9dzw/s1600/Peace%2526Beauty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hKnOgjeljSWx6wCKcJkvMu1GWao5ShqKynJ6PhomUT5bEaN81CVqCp0cFJjCTMHs29d0B-Q3iS0s7Oi7Pxrzs9ix08LpnSsRezbFodIgW72Dnozw1YmpmJ1essVjOU70wdPnZ8G9dzw/s320/Peace%2526Beauty.jpg" width="320" /></a><u style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Philippians 4:6-9 (KJV)</b></u><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Vs 6 "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Vs 7 "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (See vs 8 at the end)</i><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"Be careful for nothing"</span></i><i> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Why would God's word suggest that, when there is so much in life we have to care about. There is not a person in the world, rich or poor, famous or infamous, who does not have a care. It's like asking us to be in denial, when everything around us seems to be the opposite. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The clue is to be found in the latter part of Vs 6. God is saying that the answer is "fellowship with Him" talking to him (prayer) and thanking Him for His goodness and provision. God already knows what we are going through and what we have need of. But it is in fellowship that we find the strength and direction that we need. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.spreaker.com/user/4419282/peace_instead_of_turmoil_1" target="_blank"><b>Listen to this blog </b></a> </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The second key is to be found in <b>Vs 7.</b> </span><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." </i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It's the peace of</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">God that we all desperately need. Peace is the opposite of turmoil. As long as we live on earth, there will never be perfect peace. We will only see that in the "New Millenium" when Jesus rains supreme. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">God is speaking about "internal" peace. It's peace in our heart and mind. It's "peace that passes understanding" It's peace in spite of what is going on. It's beyond understanding. The mind is the biggest enemy that we have to deal with. It's our minds that continually imagine the worst scenarios and unless we allow God's peace to fill our minds, the turmoil around us will overtake us. PEACE NEEDS TO PASS UNDERSTANDING. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It would be great if there was an on / off switch which allowed us to turn the world off for a while, but the reality is we live in an imperfect world. But we have a perfect God living on the inside of us. It is His peace that will make a difference. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> It's a daily practice of letting Him rule. God's word commands us in <u><b>Colossians 3:15</b></u> (AMP) <i>"And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I love how the amplified bible puts it<i> ... <b>"let peace act as umpire continually".</b> </i>It's a state of mind. Learning how to <b>not to allow</b> <b>turmoil</b> to get the upper hand in our minds. It's the Peter walking on water principle. It's the Lions Den and the fiery furnace principle. Because for every situation we find ourselves in, God has an answer and the provision. <i> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>When we let the peace of God act as UMPIRE, it <b>"decides and settles with finality all questions that arise in our minds" </b></i>Most will say, that is easier said than done. How can my mind be at rest when all around me is not. We take a pain killer to kill pain. So take a positive thought to kill a negative one. I have to bombard my mind with enough of the positive to quell the negative. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Most Christians blame the devil because of the premise ... it's an attack of the devil. But we delude ourselve if we think the devil has so much power that daily he can harass the thoughts of billions of people all over the globe. He is not omnipresent, God is. He is not omnipotent, God is. He is not omnicient, God is. So the answer is to be found in me. It's my negative nature that is trying to become ruler over my life. But I will not allow it to. I will feed my mind and thoughts with God's word and promises. I will fill my mind with the blessing, mercy and grace of God and allow His peace to be the ruler. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><u><b>Phil 4:8</b></u></span><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">confirms what I have just said. <b> </b></span><b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." </span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">God is telling us, the answer it to purposefully direct our thoughts to what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of a good report. <b>Don't let your mind dictate how you are going to live and be. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.spreaker.com/user/4419282/peace_instead_of_turmoil_1" target="_blank"><b>Listen to this blog </b></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">(For more on this subject please read ...<b> </b><b>"<a href="http://gilhb.blogspot.com/2011/03/god-will-keep-you-in-perfect-peace.html">God will keep you in Perfect Peace</a>"</b> ) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">God bless you richly</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Gil Howard-Browne</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">www.revivaltimes.com </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">www.podcast.revivaltimes.com</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">www.encourageme.tv </span></div>
Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-18668908739213070932012-01-07T23:43:00.002-05:002017-10-09T19:49:56.512-04:00Be thankful to God during good and difficult times.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFUomKPqWU1iaIQJRgKgAc2k0CrirMNO1_xfjAlJWc_1KzjAM45bQZ62QiWVjhdxwGhkb4FBAw_RKmiwCD75WlYYIi1QhzycRjHJiFXRocqXdNSy7dxxFb7mKzq2jKcHI-EHslIIDC_Q/s1600/HighTideIsComing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFUomKPqWU1iaIQJRgKgAc2k0CrirMNO1_xfjAlJWc_1KzjAM45bQZ62QiWVjhdxwGhkb4FBAw_RKmiwCD75WlYYIi1QhzycRjHJiFXRocqXdNSy7dxxFb7mKzq2jKcHI-EHslIIDC_Q/s320/HighTideIsComing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Being thankful for all that God has done in our lives is something we should cultivate on a daily basis, not only when life is great and blessings are flowing. It is easy to focus on the things we need and want, but sometimes we forget ALL the wonderful things that God has done for us. <br />
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We are commanded in <b>1 Thessalonians 5:18<i> " In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."</i></b> That does not mean we are to thank Him for bad things, but regardless of our condition, we are to be thankful. <br />
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The Amplified says it well<b><i> [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks]</i></b> Being thankful even when things go wrong means we trust Him and are not swayed by life's trials. A thankful grateful heart, opens the door to the Joy of the Lord which in turn causes the peace of God to flow in us.<br />
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It's like being in the fiery furnace and not being singed. Daniel 3:24-27 The truth is, Jesus is with us every day in every circumstance. It's like being in the Lion's den and not being afraid because He is with us. Daniel 6:22<b><i> "My God has sent His angel and has shut the lions' mouths so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent and blameless before Him"</i></b><br />
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God will send angels if needed to help us and bring in the needed provision. He will shut the mouths of the Lions (the circumstances) because we Love Him and serve Him and make room for Him in our lives each day. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He will provide all our needs according to His riches in glory. <b><i></i></b><br />
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It may be low tide now, but High Tide is Coming soon.<br />
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<b>Put it to the test, right now, regardless of how you feel.</b> Just begin to thank Him over and over until you feel the heavy burden lift off of your shoulders. <br />
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<i>"Father, I thank You for ALL the blessings that You have poured out on me. I thank You for Your peace, joy and love that you have filled me with. I thank You, that You always cause me to triumph and that no matter what my present circumstances are, you will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. I thank You that nothing is too hard for You to do and that You will provide all my needs according to Your riches in glory. Amen."</i><br />
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<object align="middle" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,0,0" height="25" id="mp3playerdarksmallv3" width="210"> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="sameDomain" /><param name="movie" value="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://gilhb.podbean.com/mf/play/834dtu/God-is-so-Good-GilHoward-Browne.mp3&autoStart=no"><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><embed src="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://gilhb.podbean.com/mf/play/834dtu/God-is-so-Good-GilHoward-Browne.mp3&autoStart=no" quality="high" width="210" height="25" name="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle" allowscriptaccess="sameDomain" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer"></embed> </object> Listen to "God is so Good" </div>
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</i> God bless you richly<i>.<br />
<br />
Gil Howard-Browne<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.revivaltimes.com">www.revivaltimes.com</a></i>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-71049107556975850472011-12-31T10:03:00.003-05:002015-02-10T15:05:31.264-05:00Happy New Year - New Blessings and Opportunities<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<u><b>Philippians 3:13-15</b></u> ... but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,<br />
14 I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.<br />
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Oh how we all love to forget the trials and difficulties of the past year. We say and hear others say, "I am glad this year is over" But the one thing we so often forget to say is, " Thank God He brought us through and we made it into the new year, and He is going to take us through the next 12 months. </div>
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The reality is, there is not much different between Dec 31st and Jan 1st other than the date. The world celebrate the midnight hour as if it is some magical moment. But, things are pretty much the same. Some may still be in the struggle in January as the were in December. Others may be riding the wave of success and it carries through into the new year. </div>
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Whatever your situation is, God is still the same God and His word is still the same word. He has never changed and is in fact, "yesterday, today and forever the same." He is the one constant in our lives and His plan and purpose has never been changed. Our successes and failures are never a surprise to God. But his blessings and provision is always a surprise to us. </div>
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That's why the Apostle Paul says<i> "it is my one aspiration, to forget the things which are behind" </i>It is important to forget the past. The past is unchangeable, but the future can be altered by the decisions and actions we make.<br />
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Paul speaks about <i>"straining forward to what lies ahead"</i>. We know God is the author of good things. His word says "all good things come from above" It is never in the plan of God to provide bad things. God is incapable of doing bad things. So His plan for this next year is to bless us beyond measure. Our job is to strain forward to receive that which lies ahead. </div>
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Ephesians 3:20<i> "Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, <b>far</b> <b>over</b> and <b>above</b> all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]--"</i> Amplified. </div>
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I love this scripture. He is<i> able to carry out His purpose and do "superabundantly"</i>. The truth is His is capable of far greater than we dare ask or think. The limitations are placed there by me. I am the one who is ultimately responsible for allowing the promise of God to be made manifest in and through me.<br />
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It is indeed sad, that the church has made the devil the scape goat for our lack. But there is nothing in Ephesians 3 that indicates the devil has anything to do with my lack. The truth is God wants to bless us and we need to stop messing with this blessing. <br />
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The word straining and press towards indicates a willingness and action on my part to make heavens goal my aim. Let's agree together to make this new year a special year of receiving God's richness for our lives so that we may be able to impart to others that richness and bring them to the place of provision for their lives.<br />
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God bless you all.<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
<a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/">www.revivaltimes.com</a> </div>
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Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-6841106628514591072011-12-25T14:39:00.000-05:002011-12-25T14:39:14.397-05:00Joy to the World.<div class="heading passage-class-0" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
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<h3>Luke 2:10-14 (KJV) </h3></div><div class="result-text-style-normal " style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> <i><sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-24984">10</sup> And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you <b>good tidings</b> of <b>great joy</b>, which shall be to <b>all people</b>. <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-24985">11 </sup>For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-24986">12 </sup>And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-24987">13 </sup>And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, <sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-24988">14 </sup>Glory to God in the highest, <b>and on earth peace, good will toward men.</b></i><br />
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Christmas day is a great day of celebration for Christians all over the globe. Even those who do not believe in Christ, inadvertently celebrate His birth in that they use Christmas as a great commercial time. We walk in stores and hear Christmas carols being sung and it brings joy to many that hear them. It is a day associated with joy and happiness and excitement.<br />
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But the truth that millions miss, is that the birth of Christ was heralded by the angels with tidings of "great joy" and "peace on earth and good will towards men" Christmas signifies God's heart of good will towards all mankind and His desire to fill them with peace and joy. <br />
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<div class="heading passage-class-0"><h3>2 Corinthians 5:19 (AMP)</h3></div><i><sup class="versenum" id="en-AMP-28895">19 </sup>It was God [personally present] in Christ,<b> reconciling and restoring the world to favor</b> with Himself, <b>not counting up and holding against [men] their trespasses </b>[but cancelling them], and committing to us the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor).</i><br />
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<b>That's the good news.</b> God is not mad at the world but has forgiven them through Christ and restored them to favor with Him. Favor is undeserved and unmerited. We were cut off from Him but He has restored the connection and granted us access through Jesus' birth and death. <br />
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That's the true meaning of Christmas. God came down in the form of Jesus and made a way for us to come back to Him. All we have to do is acknowledge Him and accept what He has provided for us. Then turn around and start living for Him and allowing Him to fill us and lead us and guide us for the rest of our lives.<br />
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It's a great live of surrender to Jesus. Not a dull life as some would suggest, but a life filled with adventure, love, peace, joy and provision. It's a life filled with victory after victory, free from the condemnation that comes to those who do not accept His love and salvation.<br />
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So, Christmas day and the baby in a manger is a special day to all those who would embrace the provisions that were provided for the world. Jn 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." <br />
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Have a blessed Christmas and my His love, peace and joy fill you to overflowing.<br />
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Gil & Loraine Howard-Browne</div>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-79260267705521699152011-12-08T15:36:00.005-05:002017-03-14T19:21:00.616-04:00Pressing towards God's plan and purpose.<div style="color: black; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8FIkfjNVqWRdcgArM9TErOD9dv6MOK8rE-JfZRXvlJJ3v8DDlZ5shbAj1Br2mCBiOzTCumb8nkzcC7wtRBZU37Om736rNukBLnsh1cftE2hHXu4TAwkQMb0jMS5jVxSoemVjBIIXd0I/s1600/TheBee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8FIkfjNVqWRdcgArM9TErOD9dv6MOK8rE-JfZRXvlJJ3v8DDlZ5shbAj1Br2mCBiOzTCumb8nkzcC7wtRBZU37Om736rNukBLnsh1cftE2hHXu4TAwkQMb0jMS5jVxSoemVjBIIXd0I/s400/TheBee.jpg" width="400" /></a><i><b>Phil 3:13 "but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead"</b></i></div>
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The apostle Paul speaking a simple yet profound truth. "Forgetting what lies behind" The past is the past and there is nothing we can do to change it. How many of us have wished we could just go back several years and change something that we did or said or did not do. But that is not possible. It's our future that can and must change. </div>
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<span style="color: black;">That change can only come when we take the next part of Paul's exhortation "straining forward to what lies ahead" The word "straining" is indicative of "effort" It denotes something that I must passionately embrace. I want change so badly that I will diligently pursue it. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">I'm not talking about works. Works will bring us into further bondage and frustration. I'm not saying we must run around trying everything. The "effort" is really "rest". As the bible declares in </span>Hebrews 4:10 (Amplified) <b><i>"For he who has once entered [God's] rest also has ceased from [the weariness and pain] of human labors, just as God rested from those labors ..."</i></b> <span style="color: black;"><br />
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<span style="color: black;">The secret is to walk in the peace and joy of the Lord and to lean on </span><span style="color: black;">the wisdom of God</span><span style="color: black;">. The peace is the umpire and the joy of the Lord is our strength. The wisdom of God comes when we ask and yield. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><i><u><b>PEACE</b></u></i> : </span><br />
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Colossians 3:15-17 Amplified Bible <b><i>"And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds ... "</i></b></div>
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God's word tells us to allow His peace to be the umpire, the decision maker, thus settling the questions in our minds. You see, we want answers but they are not always forthcoming. Mainly because if God were to tell us everything in advance, we would mess it up anyway. </div>
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I don't want to know too much, it may be overwhelming. </div>
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<u><i><b>JOY</b></i></u> :<br />
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Neh. 8:10<b><i> "... the joy of the Lord is our strength" </i></b> There is strength that comes from joy. Joy energizes the human spirit. It brings encouragement in the face of insurmountable odds.<br />
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It's not a set of formula's that bring success, but a relationship with God and a trust that comes from an ongoing yielding to His plan and purpose. Many time our lack of success is because we are looking for outside approval. We are looking for man's acceptance. But ultimately, we need to have God's sanction and approval. <br />
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I have seen HIGHLY successful people burn out after a time because their success was based on their effort. It does not matter ultimately how big or small your ministry or personal effort for the Kingdom of God is, if it is based on your strength and ability, it will fail.<br />
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<u><i><b>PURPOSE:</b></i></u><br />
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Psalm 127:1 <b>"<span class="st"><i>Except the LORD build the house</i>, they labor in vain that build it</span>"</b><br />
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With the Peace and Joy of the Lord, the Purpose of God becomes easy. It's time for the Body of Christ to trust, obey and rest in Him. He will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.<br />
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God Bless<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
<a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com%20/">www.revivaltimes.com </a><b><br />
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<i><b> </b></i>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-69924369727037571322011-09-11T17:03:00.002-04:002015-02-22T12:26:51.709-05:00Your miracle is moments away.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Jude 1:20 </b><b><i>"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,"</i></b><br />
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Watching God's plan unfold takes faith and patience. It is fun in the Spirit but in the flesh sometimes scarry. That's because we can get discouraged when all we see is the problem and the solution is not forthcoming. <br />
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God's suggestion to dealing with this is to "pray in the Spirit" The reason God says to pray in the Spirit, is that according to the Word of God, when we pray in the Spirit our minds have nothing to do with the process. We are praying by the Spirit within and edifying ourselves ie: "building up ourselves"<br />
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<b>Listen to this blog : <i><a href="http://trminc.podbean.com/e/your-miracle-is-moments-away/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></i></b></div>
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<b>1 Corinthians 14:14-19 explains it well. <i> Amplified Bible (AMP) For if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my spirit [by the [a]Holy Spirit within me] prays, <u style="color: #660000;">but my mind is unproductive</u> [it bears no fruit and helps nobody].</i></b></div>
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We can and should pray with our understanding, that is simply talking to God. <b><i>But God knew that the human mind is fickle and easily distracted.</i></b> <b><i>So He devised a perfect way for us to pray that would not require our minds full attention.</i></b> I like that. Don't you? </div>
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It is important to do what God suggested. He knows the end from the beginning and knows that the miracle is closer than we realize. I would love to get a direct answer from God for everything I ask Him for, but I am sure if He told me, I would probably not like the answer. Smile. </div>
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But He is full of surprises and can do "anything" in an instant if it lines up with His plan for our lives. It's not hard for God since He can create something out of nothing. (The Universe is proof) But He demonstrated that through the life of His Son, Jesus. Think of it this way. <b>If Jesus could use the little boy's lunch to feed 5000, He has so many more creative things He can do to bless us and provide for us. </b></div>
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He said in<b> Isiah 43:19 </b><i><b> "I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."</b></i><b> </b></div>
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That means He does not need my help to get the job done, unless He asks for my co-operation in doing something that will be the trigger to release the blessing. <b>If there is no road in the wilderness and there is no river in the desert, God will put one there if necessary.</b> <b><i> HE CAN DO IT. </i></b> I have to get my head out of the way, set my thoughts and affections on Him, and trust Him to see me through. </div>
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He is the God of suddenlies. (Acts 2:1) Rejoicing and keeping our focus on Him, keeps us in the place where suddenlies can happen. It's His way of showing us how much He loves us. The lame man at the gate of the temple, came there daily to collect money from those who felt sorry for him. But Peter and John had something better <i><span style="color: #660000;"><b>"Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6</b> </span></i> It was the anointing upon Peter's life that flowed into the man and healed him. <b> It was a suddenly for him. </b> One minute he was as he always had been from birth ...<b> lame</b> ... the next minute he was <b>"walking and leaping and praising God"</b></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>We can go from lame to leaping in a heavenly minute</b></span> if we stay in the place where miracles happen. God is so far ahead of the game. He is always many steps ahead, just waiting for us to grab hold of all that He has done and will do. The bible says, He had made ready and keep ready for those who love Him. </div>
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<b>1 Corinthians 2:9 <i>"But, on the contrary, as the Scripture says, What eye has not seen and ear has not heard and has not entered into the heart of man, [all that] God has prepared (made and keeps ready) for those who love Him [ who hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed]." Amplified</i></b></div>
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When we don't know what to do, God's plan is still perfect. Our circumstances are never a curve ball to God. His love is steadfast and His plan is unchanging. He may have to move the obstacles I create out of the way, and that can be the hold up. <b> Isaiah 59: 1 <i>"Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:"</i></b></div>
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So, take courage and be of good cheer. The answer is closer than you think. We are commanded to encourage, edify and build up one another daily. <b>1 Thessalonians 5:11 Amplified Bible <i> "Therefore encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another, just as you are doing.</i></b><i>"</i> </div>
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<u><b>Summing up</b></u><b> : </b></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Watching God's plan unfold takes faith and patience. It is fun in the Spirit but in the flesh sometimes scarry. Lets stay in the Spirit.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The miracle is minutes away. If Jesus could use the little boy's lunch to feed 5000, He has many creative things He can use to bless us.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">He is the God of "suddenlies". Rejoicing keeps us in the place where "suddenlies" can happen. It's His way of showing how much He loves us.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">When we don't know what to do, God's plan is still perfect. Our circumstances are never a curve ball to God. His love is steadfast.</li>
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I trust this blog has been an encouragement to you. Please feel free to write a comment or send me an email with you prayer request or praise report by going to my web site <a href="http://revivaltimes.com/address.htm">http://revivaltimes.com/address.htm</a> The contact form is to prevent spam which I am trying to eliminate. </div>
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God bless you richly.<br />
<br />
Gil Howard-Browne<br />
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Visit our worship podcast at <a href="http://podcast.revivaltimes.com/">http://podcast.revivaltimes.com</a> </div>
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Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-58654183238824783382011-06-26T15:24:00.009-04:002015-02-11T17:48:17.143-05:00The Secret Place brings hope, peace and quiet confidence.<div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Psalm 91 </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Vs. 1<i> "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand]."</i></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Vs.2 "I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!" </i>Amp.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our salvation is secure in this truth, John 1:12 <i>"<span style="font-size: small;">But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name:" </span></i><span style="font-size: small;">and </span><span style="font-size: small;">John 3:15-16</span><i><span style="font-size: small;"> "That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" </span></i>T<span style="font-size: small;">hat's the simple truth about the "Good News" </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are two ways we can live our life in Christ. The one is to worry, stress and fret about everything and the other is to learn to trust Him who is <i>"</i></span><i>able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy," </i>Jude 1:24</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">There are so many Christians worrying about things that probably will never happen. They fret about the future and listen to those who appear to be "strong Christians" and in "leadership" who spread fear instead of faith and hope. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have seen so many emails, tweets and facebook posts that strike fear in the hearts of believers who are not grounded in the truth of God's word. I am not sure why the negative gets more traction than the positive. It's almost as if there is a blindness to what God has promised in His Word. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">For instance, Ps 23:6 "Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life" If God promised "goodness and mercy" why are we captivated by all that is bad and negative. If you look up the word "goodness" at Dictionary.com, you get this definition. "</span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;"> the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">state</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">quality</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">being good</span></span><span id="hotword">,</span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;"> moral</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">excellence;</span> virtue,</span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;"> kindly</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">feeling;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">kindness;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">generosity." The opposite is "</span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">badness and</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">evil" </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">Now, look up the word "mercy" and you will find it means </span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">"</span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">compassionate</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">kindly forbearance </span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">shown</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">toward</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">an</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">offender,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">an</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">enemy,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">other</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">person</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">one's</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">power;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">compassion,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">pity,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">benevolence:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">Have</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">mercy</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">on</span> the </span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">poor</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">sinner." </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">It</span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">'s synonyms are "</span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">forgiveness,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">indulgence,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">clemency,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">leniency,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">lenity,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">tenderness,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">mildness" <i><b>and the only </b></i></span></span><i><b><span class="sectionLabel"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">antonym listed is "</span></span></span><span class="secondary-bf"><span id="hotword"></span></span></b></i><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;"><i><b>cruelty"</b></i> So when God's word promises "goodness and mercy will follow us" why are we looking for all the bad things instead of what He meant for us. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="background-color: transparent; cursor: default;">Which brings me back to the opening scripture ...<i> </i></span></span><i>"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High" </i>The secret place is not to be found by looking at all that is wrong in the world but in looking at all that is right in Christ. It is a place of learned behavior. We learn to not lean on our own understanding, but to lean on Him. It comes from fellowship with Him. It comes from a life of worship and obeying the Holy Spirit within. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://podcast.revivaltimes.com/" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; color: #2da274; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; text-decoration: none;"></a><a href="http://podcast.revivaltimes.com/" style="border-bottom-style: none; color: #2da274; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; text-decoration: none;"> </a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> Rom 8:13-15 (Amp) </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><sup class="versenum" id="en-AMP-28128">"</sup>(13) For if you live according to [the dictates of] the flesh, you will surely die. But if through the power of the [Holy] Spirit you are [habitually] putting to death (making extinct, deadening) the [evil] deeds prompted by the body, you shall [really and genuinely] live forever. </span><span style="font-size: small;">(14) </span><span style="font-size: small;">For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. </span><span style="font-size: small;">(15) </span><span style="font-size: small;"><sup></sup>For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father!"</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Vs 15 talks about "the spirit of slavery and bondage to fear" </span><span style="font-size: small;">There are so many Christians who are slaves to bondage and fear. That is not what God intended for us. He promised "life and life more abundantly" </span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">God is calling us to live in the secret place of the Most High and to enjoy the "refuge and fortress" He provides. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Father I pray for every reader of this blog, that Your Presence and Power would flood their hearts and bring a quiet confidence and peace upon them. No matter what they are facing now, that a revelation of Your Divine intervention would fill them now. I pray for a peace in their minds, that their thoughts would be filled with the blessing, purpose and promise of God. Thank you Father in Jesus name for a new awareness of the "secret place of the Most High" to come upon them" Amen</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Watch the new Video Song</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">by my Daughter, Jilleen "Secret Place" </span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Visit her web site <a href="http://www.jilleen.net%20/">www.jilleen.net </a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">God bless you richly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Gil Howard-Browne</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">PS: Visit us on our ministry website at <a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/">www.revivaltimes.com</a> also our worship podcast at <a href="http://www.podcast.revivaltimes.com/">www.podcast.revivaltimes.com</a> </span></div>
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Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-24538322311075601792011-04-28T18:25:00.005-04:002017-07-06T12:23:33.026-04:00Thirst cannot rest until it is quenched.Psalm 42:1 <b><i>"As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God"</i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTjxnLZVyyDkoeo65PCCVRvAp8iZjsLXJM844bQ-lz5dI5lp1b9GR3U28GFZuSWvc-AgN9dW8lOzb5Z3y_VEBMNaY5d7e_CLm35DvsKyncauTZz22o2aFU62YDJBO2Jr03JGcGCEjbuU/s1600/RiverFlows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTjxnLZVyyDkoeo65PCCVRvAp8iZjsLXJM844bQ-lz5dI5lp1b9GR3U28GFZuSWvc-AgN9dW8lOzb5Z3y_VEBMNaY5d7e_CLm35DvsKyncauTZz22o2aFU62YDJBO2Jr03JGcGCEjbuU/s320/RiverFlows.jpg" width="240" /></a>In Old Testament times, the word "hart" was used for a male red deer and sanctioned by God in Deut 14:4-5 as clean to eat. It was thus greatly sought after for food mainly because of it's it weight in meat and fat and the size of it's antlers.<br />
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These deer/hart were hunted down using dogs or other means and as such, they would end up running great distances in desert country to get away, resulting in great thirst and panting. <br />
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David the psalmist, during his shepherding days, had probably seen a hunt on numerous occasions, and had noticed how the deer, fleeing the hunters, panted and thirsted for water. Coming to a stream, it would plunge in, drop it's head and drink long and deep, before darting away.<br />
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<b>"Lord I thirst after you just like this deer. Lord I long for more of You." </b><br />
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Thirst forces a desperate and deliberate decision. <b>Thirst cannot rest until it is quenched.</b> That's how we should be with God. I am so hungry and thirsty for more of Him and His presence that I can't wait until the next time I have opportunity to drink from His river of life. But why wait? Jesus said <b><i>"if any many thirsts, let him come unto Me and drink" Jn 7:37</i></b><br />
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God makes it available. It's His promise and all I need to do is make a decision to come and drink. I don't have to pray, beg, plead or become despondant. All I have to do is "come to the water and drink" I spend time in His presence, that's where the refreshing is. <br />
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What makes us thirsty? The answer is simple "lack of water" We become dehydrated, sleepy and irritable to name just a few things. It sounds like the way we feel when we lose fellowship with God. The truth of the matter is, we are a spirit, and we live in a body and we have a soul. Our bodies need natural nourishment and liquid in order to live. Our spirit needs to be nourished with the Word of God and His presence. <br />
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<i><b>Isa 44:3 says "I will pour water upon him that is thirsty"</b></i> When God pours water, you have to know it is going to be good and it is going to be plenty. But He only does that for those that are thirsty. God never forces His water on those that don't want it. But He sees the thirsty heart and He will bring refreshing by pouring water upon us. <br />
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He continues in that verse to say, <i><b>"and floods upon the dry ground." </b></i>Not only will He refresh you but He will refresh all those that are around you. There will be an overflow. We don't realize how much people need our help. If we are dry ourselves, we cannot help those around us. <br />
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But He is not done yet. He continues <b><i>"I will pour My Spirit upon your offspring, and My blessing upon your descendants" </i></b>What a package deal. Not only do I get refreshed, but my offspring ... my kids and my descendants ... my grand kids. That is what's amazing about God. He is so generous in His giving and loves His children greatly and has purposed to bless us<b><i> beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams. </i></b><br />
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<b><i>Ephesians 3:20 (Amplified Bible) "is able to [carry out His purpose and] do super abundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]--"</i></b><br />
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God is never done with us and He never get tired of blessing us. That's what He accomplished through Jesus on the cross. He always has something new and fresh for us. We just have to be ready and willing to receive. Don't make excuses like "I'm not good enough" God it not blessing you because you are good, but because He is good. God bless you richly<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
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<span class="xr_tl" style="top: -12px;"><b> </b></span> <a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/">http://www.revivaltimes.com/ </a><a href="http://www.podcast.revivaltimes.com/"></a>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-49943086666783609382011-04-25T19:22:00.009-04:002015-02-23T18:28:10.093-05:00Focusing on the "ROCK"<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5UJBQmysOPXsvjPeWbBL92YAPSkqXEQjEYsvVKL8MsaLM9mRQXiWbYlaOcBP3W6_NK7Epj7x1w8Z6iSJxtp1Yc4QVwDuwEp2rIXEofJ2WcTIQ3NdFJb6Gjx6sxFehvSJB3ofZErmoRo/s1600/TheRock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5UJBQmysOPXsvjPeWbBL92YAPSkqXEQjEYsvVKL8MsaLM9mRQXiWbYlaOcBP3W6_NK7Epj7x1w8Z6iSJxtp1Yc4QVwDuwEp2rIXEofJ2WcTIQ3NdFJb6Gjx6sxFehvSJB3ofZErmoRo/s320/TheRock.jpg" height="280" i8="true" width="320" /></a><b><i>Psalm 61:2 "From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock [that] is higher than I."</i></b><br />
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It's quite normal to want to know the answer to everything. We look for a word of encouragement or prophecy that may throw some light on our situation, but often, it's on a need to know basis and God is the only one that needs to know.<br />
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Many times we look for the answers in the wrong places. It's almost like the fellow who was looking under the street lamp at night for something. A passer by stopped and asked him what he was looking for. He said he had lost his car keys and pointed to a spot about 40 yards away. The passerby looked puzzled and asked him, why are you looking in this spot for your keys when you lost them 40 yards away. The man answered ... because there is no light there so I came here because I could see better.<br />
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Now that's a dumb joke but its a great illustration of how we are looking to the wrong source for the answer. The Lord woke me up early one morning with this statement<b> "God wants the Body of Christ to change the way we t</b><b>hink, s</b><b>peak and a</b><b>ct.</b><br />
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Troubles and problems are all around us, they are a fact of life. Troubles come to the strong in the Lord and the not so strong in the Lord. It's often our first reaction to something that happens, or to something someone says, that determines it's outcome. That reaction becomes the foundation upon which success or failure is built.<br />
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For instance, when someone says something that hurts or irritates us, we need to pause before responding, to consider what outcome our reply will have on the issue. My reply could either help the situation or make it worse. <br />
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This holds good for thoughts as well. The minute the thought enters our mind, what do we do with it? Do we give into it with an emotional response, or do we consider the thoughts credibility in the light of what God's word says. <br />
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For example, when we feel a pain in our bodies, and a thought crosses our minds that we may have cancer, because someone we know had the same type of pain and they died of cancer. Do we believe that thought or do we immediately steer our thoughts towards what God's word tells us. <b><i>"By His stripes we were healed"</i></b><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><i><u>We are the masters of our own words and thoughts</u></i></span><br />
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If your focus is on the wrong thing it will lead you away from God's purpose. <b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Don't think every thing bad that happens to you is the devil.</span></i></b> Life is full of surprises. Both good and bad things happen to good and bad people. <br />
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A lot of negative things come from bad choices we make. Some people get mad at God as if He had something to do with it. The truth is God has given us all of His promises and His anointing to help us succeed. Unfortunately, we are often so wrapped up in our own condition that we don't see the provision that God has made for us. <br />
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<u>God is wanting a people who are confident in Him</u>.</span> <br />
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Paul says <b><i>Phil 4:10-11 "I was made very happy in the Lord that now you have revived your interest in my welfare after so long a time; you were indeed thinking of me, but you had no opportunity to show it."</i></b><br />
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<b><i>Vs 11 "Not that I am implying that I was in any personal want, for I have learned how to be content (satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or disquieted) in whatever state I am"</i></b><br />
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Paul experienced a lot of difficult trials and situations. But we very seldom hear him say it was the devil. We hear him say <b><i>"God always causes me to triumph."</i></b> 2 Cor 2:14 and <b><i>"Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world".</i></b><br />
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The prayer Paul prayed for the Church in <b>Eph 3:14-20</b>, never once mentioned the devil or evil or problems. Instead it focused on the length, breadth, depth and height of the love of God. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">God is looking for quiet in the midst of the storm.</span> <br />
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<b><i>Jesus focused on RESTING rather than on the storm. <br />
Peter focused on the storm rather than on Jesus. </i></b></div>
Is your focus on the situation or on the God of the situation? <br />
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The man at the pool of Bethesda focused on his inability to get to the pool when the angel stirred the water. Jesus never saw his disability but saw him whole. The answer that came from Jesus was <b><i>" take up thy bed and walk"</i></b><br />
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He could have reacted negatively to that statement of Jesus. "What do you mean ... take up my bed and walk. Can't you see I am lame." That's the emotional response based on what he had become accustomed to. Many Christians are unable to trust God anymore because they are so accustomed to their circumstances.<br />
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<u>Victory does not mean that all your needs met.</u></span><br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #660000;">Victory is how we think, speak and act while we are waiting for our needs to be met</span></i></b>. The lame man at the gate of the temple, was so accustomed to being lame that all he knew to do was beg for money. <br />
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Sometimes we can get so used to our condition that we become programed to react in the same way over and over again. This lame man saw Peter and John entering the temple. His first thought was ... I can get some money from them. <br />
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Getting money from people became his focus. If someone told him that he could walk one day he would probably have replied ... "are you kidding ... can't you see I am lame and have been since birth."<br />
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Peter's immediate reaction was <i><b>"we don't have money but what we have is far better for you. It's called the anointing. The presence of God. Here have some",</b></i> and took him by the hand and just raised him up. The man went from the lying position he had been in since birth to walking and leaping and praising God in a second.<br />
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Your immediate thought may have been that both these men were lame. You say ... <b><i>"Their condition is so different from mine."</i></b> But your situation has paralyzed you and kept you from walking in the blessing of the Lord. God can change that in a moment of time. <br />
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<b><i>Make a conscious effort today to change the way you think, speak and act.</i></b> If you don't see the result immediately don't despair and lose hope. Many people have problems that are an accumulation of mistakes they have made over years and expect God to change it overnight. But when those mistakes involve people, God has to work on their hearts first before we see the change. <br />
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But while you are waiting for that change to take place, God will fill you with His love, peace and joy and make it possible for you to be victorious while waiting for the circumstances to change. <br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Let the peace of God rule your heart bringing a quiet trust and confidence in the God that is more than enough.</span><br />
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God bless you richly,<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne <br />
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<a href="http://www.podcast.revivaltimes.com/"><b> </b></a>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-536397280585151858.post-19860918395413416362011-04-10T13:20:00.020-04:002012-09-10T13:15:53.564-04:00When will the answer come ... how much longer must I wait, Lord?<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHbmllVi-c340uEtswH8fj438KuZhY5gGiWXzj-mosWhL5yAL6rG5TpFRZMGi9DvxDzFKNlGG23a2uuOyWNzi7G77BIfC5EmvhbJK0YUe_VNIwgL-vFtxCtQdxU7CEoAghHt7rcuZ8zs/s1600/Quail-SimpleTrust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHbmllVi-c340uEtswH8fj438KuZhY5gGiWXzj-mosWhL5yAL6rG5TpFRZMGi9DvxDzFKNlGG23a2uuOyWNzi7G77BIfC5EmvhbJK0YUe_VNIwgL-vFtxCtQdxU7CEoAghHt7rcuZ8zs/s320/Quail-SimpleTrust.jpg" width="320" /></a>Have you ever expressed, to the Lord or to yourself or to someone else, the thought "When will the answer come, how much longer must I wait, Lord?"<br />
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I am sure you have. Impatience is often the source of frustration. But I have found, in my own life, that many of the answers God gave <b>did not come in my time frame nor in the way I expected. </b><br />
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<b>God promises us</b> <b><i>"He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him My salvation. " Psalms 91:15 & 16</i></b><br />
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The heart of God is to bless us. He is a loving heavenly Father and knows how to bless and keep us. If he did not mean that, He would not have said it. Jesus came to fulfill the will of His Father, by paying the price for us on the cross and making a way for us to have access to every promise of God. <br />
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<div>God says <b><i>"If you call on me, I will answer you" </i></b> This promise is only conditional upon us "calling upon Him" He says, <b>if you call.</b> God of course already knows what is going on in our lives, but there is something about us calling on Him, that makes Him respond. He is watching over His Word to perform it. </div><br />
I know there is a lot of teaching on faith or the lack of faith. I have seen people in bondage to "faith" rules and regulations. Suddenly because they happened to think or say the wrong thing, their faith is nullified. A lady many years ago, came to us for prayer. She had miscarried several times and was confused as her pastor told her that she did not have faith.<br />
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I immediately told her "you don't need faith to have a baby, God made it that way." Billions of people have had babies without even know what faith is. What she really needed was healing and not a guilt trip. All the faith rules are complicated and based on my ability to impress God by being perfect. I have seen God do miracles for total non believers. I have seen people get healed who did not even believe nor were they expecting a healing. <br />
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But Jesus said we only need mustard seed faith to move mountains. That is tiny. Just the simple act of calling upon the Lord, is in itself an act of faith. I would not call on Him if I did not believe He would answer. That would be dumb. Remember, many miracles came to people to whom Jesus had said "oh ye of little faith" He says again in <b><i>Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."</i></b> <br />
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The act is <b><i>"call unto me"</i></b> and God's response is <b><i>"I will answer you"</i></b> but not only answer you, but <b><i>"show you mighty things that you did not know I was capable of doing"</i></b>. Again, the only condition God places on this promise is <i><b>"Call unto me"</b></i> God delights in honoring His word. He knows we are not perfect and He knows we never will be. He knows we live in an imperfect world where things go wrong. <br />
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You say, how do you know that. Well look at all the imperfect people God has used over the centuries to do His will. There are many great names today who are by no means perfect and have issues, but God is using them profoundly. Let's take this over to the new testament and see what Jesus said. <b><i>(Matthew 7:7-8) Vs. 7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: </i></b><b><i>Vs. 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.</i></b><br />
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That is not difficult to understand. But if it is as simple as Jesus said, <i><b>then why do we not get everything we ask for.</b></i> Well simply put, if God were to give us everything we asked for, our lives would be a mess. Many of the things we think we need to change our lives, would actually complicate them and ultimately lead us away from God's perfect plan for our lives. <br />
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So what did Jesus mean when He said, ask, seek and knock. <b>Jesus clarified this earlier in Matthew 6: Vs. </b><b><i>31 - Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? Vs. </i></b><b><i>32 - (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. Vs. </i></b><b><i>33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Vs. </i></b><b><i>34 - Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. </i></b><br />
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Jesus says ... "there is a better way." <b><i>Seek first the Kingdom of God</i></b> ... that is God's plan and purpose for your life. "<b><i>for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things." </i></b> As we pursue God's things, all the things we NEED will be added to us. <i><b>There is an attitude of simple trust that we must learn to walk in.</b></i> I am not striving every day to get things from God. Living for God is not a chore that I must do each day I wake up. He is part and parcel of my every day life. I am aware of Him and I am confident that He has my best interest at heart. I am living in expectation for the next God planned event in my life. <i><b>But I am also not phased if in the natural it does not look like much to others. </b></i><br />
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The Apostle Paul learned that secret during his walk with Christ. <i><b>Phil 4:10-11 (Amplified) 11 - Not that I am implying that I was in any personal want, for I have learned how to be [a] content (satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or disquieted) in whatever state I am. Vs 12 - How to be abased and live humbly in straitened circumstances, and I know also haw to enjoy plenty and live in abundance. I have learned in any and all circumstances the secret of facing every situation, whether well fed or going hungry, having a sufficiency and enough to spare or going without and being in want. </b></i><br />
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It's not that Paul is "satisfied and content" with his negative circumstances, it's that he is rooted and grounded in his trust in God's ability to cause him to triumph. The thing he calls "secret" is simple trust. It's not "21 steps to receiving your miracle". It's trusting God each and every day, knowing that He loves us and His plan for our lives is being implemented." Now obviously <b>if He is talking to you about doing or not doing something,</b> <b>then obedience is also a key. </b> <b><u>Trust and Obey.</u> </b><br />
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In many church communities, you could not ever say what Paul just said, without being chastised for speaking unbelief. <b>But Paul had learned to trust God during good and bad times</b>. His love for and faith in God did not waver because of the circumstances he found himself in. Then he adds ... <b><i>Vs. 13 - I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who [b]infuses inner strength into me; I am [c]self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].</i></b><br />
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It is Christ in me that makes a difference. It is His ability, efficiency and might on the inside that makes a difference. This takes the pressure off of me to perform ritualistically and puts the pressure on Him in me.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>It's His life, power and ability in me that will make my life productive. </b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>It's His strength, wisdom, understanding, favor, and anointing </b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>that is conforming me to His image and His will for my life.</b></i><br />
</div>So stop beating yourself up and start leaning "not to your own understanding" but trust in what Christ accomplished on the cross. He is presenting you holy and faultless and irreproachable to His Father. Colossians 1:22 (Amplified Bible) <i><b>"Yet now has [Christ, the Messiah] reconciled [you to God] in the body of His flesh through death, in order to present you holy and faultless and irreproachable in His [the Father's] presence."</b></i> That does not mean we are just going to live any which way we want to, but when we get a revelation of what He has done for us, we love Him even more and we desire to live circumspectly before Him. <br />
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Christ is presenting you holy and faultless and irreproachable before the Father. Trust Him today and call upon Him. If you don't get the answer immediately, don't get mad at Him, but keep on loving Him and through "Faith and Patience" you will inherit the promise. (Hebrews 6:12) Stay away from many "formulas" because they will lead you into bondage, but simply trust what God has said in His word. <br />
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God bless you richly.<br />
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Gil Howard-Browne<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="xr_tl" style="top: -12px;"><b>Our main ministry web site is </b></span><a href="http://www.revivaltimes.com/"><b>www.revivaltimes.com</b></a></div>Gil Howard-Brownehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14965041186527638418noreply@blogger.com0