2012= THE YEAR OF OUR DREAMS
We are based less than 50 miles from Kenya’s most impoverished and Gospel neglected tribe (the Pokot). They take young girls for marriage- choosing brides as young as 8 years old and sometimes wed at 10 or 12. They fight the surrounding tribe (10). They have a worship of cattle just like the tribes in Sudan. It takes 100 to 200 cattle to get a ‘bride’. So they raid (steal) from their surrounding tribes. If you have 1000-2000 cows you are extremely wealthy and you can have many wives. We believe God has positioned us to impact this final (unreached) tribe in Kenya. According to the Kenyan daily news “its the least developed and most impoverished region in Kenya” (Daily Nation News Nov 2011). Yet there are other ‘tribes’ all around us- in Kenya, Africa and the USA. Who are these ‘large’ unreached tribes in the whole world? Lets ask God open our eyes today.
THE MACEDONIAN CALL
“They tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them.” Acts 16:7 Paul and company had made up their minds to go to a certain town and people group. They were going the wrong direction and to the wrong people. Sometimes our mindset, preference and decisions are simply wrong for that time and place. “But a vision appeared to Paul in the night it was of a Macedonian man pleading saying ‘please come here and help us!’ ” In 2012 you will be disconnected from the wrong dream and connected to the right dream. This year your good ideas will give way to God ideas. Simply put, God has a better plan than we do. We need to be humble enough to change our minds and go God’s direction. Paul the Apostle got disconnected from his wrong direction and connected to God’s dream- 2012 is a year of re-connection to God’s dream or vision for our lives.
THE NEXT GENERATION
God cares about the next generation. The only sign of success in any business, ministry or charity is if the stated purpose increases in the next generation. This is what Paul meant by saying to Timothy “this faith/purpose lived in your grandma Lois, your mom Eunice and now /lives inside you”. (2 Tim 1) This is also implied in the OT saying “Abraham, Isaac and Jacob”. Something began with Abraham and compounded with Isaac then was multiplied to Jacob. This is the God kind of increase of vision, love, power and focus for our generation. You can replace the word ‘Macedonian’ with the word “youth” or “Pokot tribe” or even something relevant in your region. Our youth/kids are quickly becoming overlooked. Materialism and other definitions of ‘success’ are relegating them to last place. Gangs rise in our cities is because of ‘no fathers’. Let ask God to give us His dreams for people in our sphere of influence.
DREAMS FOR OUR KIDS
The last verse in the Old Covenant (OT) is Malachi “turning the hearts to the children and to the fathers.” This verse would also summarize Apostle Paul’s spiritual mentoring relationship with Timothy. Also Jesus’ relationship with the 12 apostles, especially the close 3 (Peter, James and John).
They didn’t measure their success in the size of their mission base, support, staff, or finances (all good things). They measured success by their mentoring others. Our success is when we transfer eternity- love, faith and grace to the next generation. Others have said it “no success, no successor”. We can only measure it in the same way we measure our own families. Would you look at your own household and measure success by ‘things’? Most sensible people would not. You would measure it by quality- quality of communication, values, morality, and understanding one another. A parent takes it as the highest priority to transfer the worldview he/she cares so much about.
Today we have a fatherless generation of young people. They span the entire globe- they are in every town, city, continent and nation. They may easily fit the Macedonian plea “come and help us.” (Acts 16:7) These youth are misunderstood- they are written off. The essence of this visionary experience in Acts 16 is “Paul, you thought you were going to reach the people you wanted- Jew or Gentile, rich or poor, and slave or free. But now I (Jesus) am sending you too a little known group- an unknown town, tribe and place. This is my current dream for you now.” Our preference and mindset must give way to God’s “now word” Gods ability to adjust us any direction, in a moments notice. This year (2012) I believe God will delete some of our old ideas- so that we can rightly perceive the God dream near us. Our ways must be replaced by God’s- we need ears to hear and eyes to see what God is doing!
TO THOSE OVERLOOKED
God mentored Jeremiah direct. Notice God didn’t speak down to Jeremiah ‘you little boy.’ God told Jeremiah the opposite ‘quit saying ‘I am only a youth.” (Jeremiah 1, 1 Timothy 4:7). In other words, quit making excuses! In Africa this is a prevalent attitude towards youth and unmarried people. Yet they respect elders- a great virtue. Here in Africa its often forgotten that King Josiah was a young boy like King David, the 12 apostles and so many others! Our ‘traditional mindsets’ often war against Gods purposes in people. We tend to peg people and right them off- before we ever hear what God has to say about them.
Mentoring is true ministry. It means transferring all your knowledge and wisdom to a people that can take it and apply it (even at an earlier age than we did). It takes a secure person to allow those coming after us to surpass us. It takes grace to want them to outdo you, outperform you, out speak you, out artistic you….. but that is the essence of parenting. “How I wish to give you something to make you accel beyond.”- Romans 1:11 Apostle Paul was only echoing Jesus’ life on earth. Jesus Christ was never fearful of being overshadowed or ‘outdone’. We have to have that same rock solid identity that loves to see people soar above us!
In church we often find the opposite. Normal in the day to day world, it strikes us with cold chills when we realize the church is full of insecure people (maybe you didn’t know). If you take a slice of the church you see common society- an exact representation. We need not be shocked– realizing that even leaders aren’t often secure enough in the love of Heavenly Father. Therefore they suppress up and coming talent much like King Saul treated King David. Mentoring others (passing a torch) requires we re-define success. We need to clearly state “my success is my successors- that they may out-fly, outdo, out run, out faith and even out risk me”. Otherwise we may end up with a (negative) business like paradigm “my success is the size of my ministry, finances, popularity, itinerary…” These things are not bad but we need to clearly identify our goal (training and imparting to people). Then whether it’s 12 key people (Jesus 12 apostles) or 12,000 it’s a non issue. God can prosper and abound us if our ministry motives hit His target. It’s really an issue of motive than size big or small. I am not speaking as a critic of the church (the news media does that). I speak as an honest voice noticing the strengths and weaknesses around us today.
UNREACHED TRIBES IN…. USA AND EUROPE
Youth are one of the tribes God wants us to reach. They deserve the title ‘unreached people group’ because culture is so opposite here in Africa. In USA a preoccupation with youth- MTV, VH1 and everything is geared towards them. In Africa, its just the opposite. People respect elders, age and experience. A person who isn’t married with kids and deep in their career is seen as “youth’ until that time. The honoring of elders is wonderful- however it has opened the door of neglect towards youth issues, sexuality, marriage,and basics like balancing a checkbook (staying out of debt). Whoever reaches the youth will be extremely successful reaching unreached tribesman like the Pokot. Once you capture the passion and fire of youth- they will climb mountains. They aren’t boxed in by all the boundaries, fears and false expectation. God planted a special seed inside of youth call ‘the next thing, the new thing and the next levels.We must recognize those seeds and call them forth- nurturing them and not despising them. I hear people all the time criticizing Generation X up to the current Gen- that’s not God’s heart at all!
LIFTING THE CEILING OF LIMITATION (DREAMING)
Great fathers lift the ceiling off the next generation. Dreaming has to do with silencing the voices of fear, doubt and failure. It sets a sail in the wind of the Holy Spirit ‘take us to those glorious levels that You live in Heavenly Father.’ Sadly so many churches don’t pursue dreams. They lost touch with the wonder and amazement in God’s heart. Then they wonder why their youth and teenagers ‘left the church’ because they found it irrelevant to their life. Imparting the dreams of God is the only way we will give birth to Josephs, Daniels and John the Beloveds. Are there still any dreamers out there?
God dreams are transferable from one generation to another. This is the essence of what Abraham, Isaac and Jacob discovered. Or Timothy. We need to dream the dreams of God in 2012. Its costly- its not a gold or silver found in the streets. The Bible is a book of God’s dreams. From the Book of Acts to Revelation you will see ordinary people interacting with the God who dreams. The Book of Revelation ends with a Garden once again on the earth, and mankind walking in close fellowship once again. This is God’s dream- and God dares to dream against the odds. Then what about us daring to dream?
COSTLY DREAMS
Sometimes we stifle people’s dreams. In Africa some past missionaries and colonialists labeled/pegged Africans by comparisons “you aren’t like us ___” even when the Gospel came we taught them wrong things. For example we handed out candy and food…. and it became a pattern and formula 100 years later. Patterns and past formulas are often the enemy of our current ability to dream. What worked 500 years ago or 50 years ago may be the enemy of God today. The greatest enemy to our God dreams today is the disillusionment of yesterday. Leaning on past victories and formulas is certainly a recipe for defeat.
Unless we embrace dreams and dreaming (and teach our kids to dream) we may lose them. This is why 75% of youth leave the church- we are still talking about old battles, old lessons and we give them no new vision or dreams today. Its better if we take them to a Lord of the Rings movie (Tolkien) or Chronicles of Narnia Movie (CS Lewis). These conservative Christians (one Catholic, one Anglican) were able to see and articulate deep truths and practicality for their times. Today in some churches they fear to even touch the levels of spirituality found inside these artistic stories!
It’s time to dream again. Its time to throw off fears, ‘what will they say’ and other limitations. Our 6 year old daughter has the most vivid dreams. How are we to respond to fantastic or even strange dreams? A foolish parent analyzes, summarizes and criticizes their kids dream. A wise parent does what Jacob did ‘he pondered and wondered about Joseph’s fantastic dream” (Genesis 37). The church must again become the place of ‘permission to dream again”. Sadly its often a place where cold water douses our dreams. Too many times our children tell us their dreams- and either we are too busy or too intellectual to hear God’s Spirit about it. We draw the dream into our own worldview, therefore misinterpreting and misapplying it. Are people able to share their dreams around you? Joseph’s brothers envied and misinterpreted his dream through a self centered lens. Joseph’s brothers attacked him for his dreams. Jacob was wise with Joseph’s early dreams, and Jacob was likely prayerful about the dream. Years later Jacob was in Egypt before his exalted son- living the dream from his generation to his grandkids. May that be so with you and I!
Today my wife pointed out to me a friend who we gave a gift to in 2007. Instead of using the (guitar) gift, our friend posted it for sale. “I am selling my classic guitar in order to buy a classic car”- he posted it right on Facebook. I laughed because its kind of how we treat our dreams! Many people sell out their dream fulfillment for 30 pieces of silver… sometimes giving up just before the time of fulfillment! There is a price to all dreams- in terms of waiting, persisting, and enduring the criticism of what people might say. Judas had the true dream of God offered to him (divine apostleship), and instead he settled for the immediate substitute (money). I began to think how often some of us have done that with our dreams! However we can bounce back and get back to our dream- we don’t have to end up like Judas.
In some ways, the church does this with dreams. Dream fulfillment is costly, there’s a time delay and much more involved. Very few people can handle the tension between ‘getting’ a dream and ‘fulfilling the dream’. Many people would rather get an immediate (something) fulfillment- even if that real dream gets sacrificed at the altar of something lesser. Its commonplace today. Fulfilling our dreams often require the perseverance and duration of Joseph- its like everything went the opposite direction of his dream. Dreamers, can you prepare yourself for a truth “God shows you the potential, but you will likely pass thru the opposite.” Some of us have to overcome impatience– Abraham waited 25+ years for his promised dreams. The only drawback in our fast food, drive thru and convenience society is that we tend to want spiritual treasures the same way– and Heaven operates on a different cycle and frequency.
I am going to provoke you without apology today. The only thing that makes you or I the Church is that we perceive a portion of God’s dream for humanity. Others don’t see it, or they are waiting for you and I to reveal the dream. People are waiting to see, hear taste and touch Gods dream for their lives! I will say it again ‘The only thing that makes the Church special is that we carry a dream of God inside us- and we need the Holy Spirit to declare it and interpret it to all those around us.’ I am using the broader definition of ‘dreams’ here according to the Scriptures below.
One of the greatest triumphs you or I could ever experience is to be like Joseph with Jacob at the end of Jacob’s life. How many of us will see such glory? Jacob’s generational blessings initiated generational dreaming inside of Joseph. Yes, it was forgotten and Jacob even learned to ‘die to Joseph’- but Jacob stood in triumph with Joseph at the end (Genesis 48-50). He stood seeing victory, vindication, exaltation and the joy of a true father. May God take us to those levels of generational dreams- may you see the Lord’s enemies routed before your eyes, your children’s eyes and your grandchildren. The anointing of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob transferred to Joseph- and Jacob blessed his grandson’s (Joseph’s sons) in Egypt. There was no more disputes about dream interpretation, and ‘was Joseph’s dream from God?” When you walk with God from beginning to end, you will inherit the dreams of God. May you rise to that call today and impart it to your spiritual children and natural children. Standing inside a dream fulfilled with your family or spiritual children is one of the greatest joys in Heaven and earth- may those generational blessings come upon your family today.
Dreams fill the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, from cover to cover. May the dreams of God flow in your lives during 2012! May you share your dreams with dream lovers– don’t make the mistake of Joseph who seemed to share his dreams repeatedly with the wrong people. God give you dreamers, encouragers and visionaries for your life and ministry in 2012! Put fear under your feet and dare to dream His dream for your life this year!
“God has not given us a spirit of fear- but a spirit of power, love and sound mind”. 2 Timothy 1
“Your sons and daughters will prophesy (speak about God) and your elders shall dream….” Joel 2
“Now Joseph had a dream and his brothers envied him” Genesis 37:5
“We were like those who dreamed” Psalm 126:1
“Are you able to make known the dream I have seen?” Daniel 2:26
“Your old men will dream dreams” Acts 2:17
“I suffered many things in a dream because of Him.” Matthew 27:19
“The man in a vision saying “come over here and help us!” Acts 16:7
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STUDYING AFRICAN REVIVAL- DEFINITIONS AND QUESTIONS
Missions made America a great nation. There is nothing like ‘isolationism’ that will help America. America is a microcosm of the world- many nations live inside her borders. From her birth in 1776 missionaries and holy workers were sent out to bring Gospel, hope, medicine, healing, and essential services. I believe we must help our local townships and communities. But we must never become introverted- that would violate the precepts that made us a great nation. To be a Christian means to reach out and to lift others up. To have no bias. To show love and service outside our own tribes, family, and communities. The secret is once we step outside our comfort zones our own communities and families get blessed. In Germany, whole towns have adopted African villages and projects. Why? Because introversion and isolationism is a curse- it keeps us in self centered-ness and ignorance. There is a massive world to reach and blessings come when we reach out. “Take this message of reconciliation, forgiveness and power to Jerusalem, Samaria and to all the nations of the earth” Jesus says.
Let me say the truth- when we begin to love other groups, other tribes, other nations- miracles begin from within our hearts. This is what the prophet meant saying “His glory will rise before you and behind you.” Isaiah 58-61. When we adopt love for other nations, miracles occur. This is a secret of American Christian success. Lets not forget it. As we approach the time of hyper nationalism, extremism and racism our success shall be loving many tribes and nations. Kenya is running a parallel course with America. Kenya is becoming a great light in Africa that’s why she has been shaken to her foundations in the last elections. Her great success has been to invite refugees from over 10 African nation conflicts (civil wars). Not all Kenyans know her secret success. When you love other nations (than your own) God works many financial and supernatural miracles on your behalf.
Revival is a word used to describe the Life of Christ touching people, tribes and communities. It is clearly seen in the Bible from the time of Noah to Acts Chapter 2. Its sometimes hard to control it- though God has principles and laws, still there is mystery and awe around Him.
Jesus has a way of revealing us our hearts. Even during this time, i felt like the woman in John 4 “come and see a prophet who told me everything i ever did in my life.” This lady ran around the country side with a message of forgiveness and transformation. Its the same with us. Who can reject such a message? You get total forgiveness! In any marriage we make mistakes, we offend and hurt one another. What proud person would ever say “i don’t want forgiveness. I don’t have sin. I don’t need anything= i am right and all others are wrong.”
When the life of Christ touches us, we are never the same again. Criminals get transformed. God haters become God lovers. People who are confident in themselves get humbled and get (faith) confidence in God. People get healing, sins forgiven and much more. Who could every turn such a thing down? Even the problems in our societies/nations are because of offense, bitterness, hatred, extremism, hyper nationalism, racism. God’s Spirit comes to reveal the timeless message of Jesus Christ. Come to Him for new life.
I encountered new dimensions of mercy during this time. In the church world, when God begins to use us, we must guard against pride. God revealed some things to myself that I had not noticed. In the church world we get confused all the time about pride and humility. The church world is always running around telling people to be humble, even when they are doing God’s work like David. The brother of David accused David saying “You are so conceited”. At times in revival, people come to falsely accuse. When you are absolutely in the center of God’s will it can happen like that. During the Maasai conference I spoke about Joseph falsely accused, and also John the Beloved (apostle). We talked about brothers. I prayed for sick people. One person with a deformed face I prayed repeatedly, over the course of 2 or 3 days. It was a painful moment in the event. Sometimes people’s healing delay for various reasons. Other times like Namaan the Syrian they just need to follow specific instructions. We don’t have all the answers- some claim to, but we don’t here.
We need new definitions of pride and humility. Some people are so humble they are proud of their humility. They are like self appointed watchmen who go around saying ‘hes proud, but she’s not proud’ not realizing they are themselves.
Faith is a God confidence in Him- He is bigger than our strengths and weaknesses. When He takes the stage we have nothing to prove or boast about. We come to total honesty. When God begins to manifest and do His work, we must be doubly on guard. So many movements/revivals fall into pride.
We stand by grace- not theoretical, but real. If God ever wants to show you that ‘you are just like the rest of humanity’ He can do it in a flash. If you ever begin to flirt with pride thinking ‘wow aren’t we special= we are even better than the rest of the churches in our town.” God has a way of helping us come down.
Our prayer is that we will pursue God with all our hearts- His love, power, passion, justice, mercy and grace. That we will have the genuine God confidence (faith) which puts the spotlight on Jesus and His Spirit. That we won’t do what David or Joseph’s brothers did- they went around falsely accusing the people who God was using for His purposes. Many people will rise against you when you are moving in the genuine grace. Don’t worry about it, don’t personalize it. Its not you they hate, it’s God. That’s what Joseph said in Genesis 50 and we need to declare it “it wasn’t you who sent me or did anything- it was God.” This is echoed in David’s victory over Goliath. I echoed this in my message about John the Apostle who humbly declared in end of the Bible “i am John your brother in a kingdom of power, suffering and grace.” (Revelation 1:9) In revival we tend to lose a Kingdom focus- we get focused in our groups, ministries, churches. We need the Kingdom perspective. Its always about Jesus. Its always about His movements, decisions, power, forgiveness and glory. He will use you like He used others in the Book of Acts or Book of Revelation. But we have to have a clear honesty- its about Him not about us being better than any church or better than unbelievers. We need to get baptised in Gods love and mercy. There is a pressure during revival- people rise up to condemn and others get on board. Half the church splits- some say its God, others say its demons During the life of Christ some said God was with Him, while the religious synagogue chased him out during His first appearance. (Luke 4-5) Lets not be so shocked when it happens in our day. The church of Jesus’ day didn’t like His message or manifestations- don’t be surprised if it happens in our day.
We have to be ready to face the criticism, hear it, forgive and move on. We have to be linked with people clothed in humility, but who aren’t cowards. There’s so many people who won’t stand up for whats right or good. There’s so many fearful people who confuse fear as humility “i am a worm, i am nothing, I am too weak’ they say. They don’t want the controversy or condemnation attached with following Jesus Christ. They prefer to pretend that humility is tip toeing around and being nice. We should always want to be loving and kind. But don’t try to make Jesus the politically correct version that so many are trying to make Him to be. He is much bigger than that! Revival in the Holy Spirit cuts thru so many confusions of our day- but watch out for it is controversial. People rise up against you just like they did Joseph, King David or John the Apostle. The hearts of men are the same 2000 years after the Birth of Christ. Lets be ready for what God is doing in our day, and embrace it confidently with boldness. Lets shun pride and false humility and keep our eyes firmly fixed on the Majesty!
We are called to walk in this paradox- divine glory and grace flowing around us- touching sick people, healing and helping. Yet we must never lose touch with our weaknesses. We must never confuse the grace as our strength or from ourselves. This practical dilemma surrounds the life of every Christian. Some manage it by fully rejecting the works of Holy Spirit, practically denying the deity of Christ. Others embrace false humility. Also others talk only about weaknesses and exhibit the same. We must embrace God’s strength. That is true humility. Its more humble to talk about His work, His salvation, His forgiveness, His justice and ability- than to confess all day long how bad ‘i am’. Yet there is truth in both. Lets not forget our weakness- but He says “Let the weak say I am strong- let the poor say I am rich”. You see its faith that takes the promises of God. Its faith that takes the healing, the salvation, the miracles. And its faith that takes you too your victory. From infirmity to healing. From sin and weakness to overcoming. This is why Jesus came to us. Its a 2 edged sword. Oh many people talk about how wonderful it is when the things of the Bible happen. But when they truly happen, people despise it and others embrace it. Look at the life and times of Jesus on earth. Some wanted to crown him King and others said crucify him. Mankind is fickle. If you really want to worship God- focus on his strengths and they will overcome your weaknesses. Whatever we look at long enough… we worship.
There are so many extremes in our world and in the church. As God takes us higher into knowing Jesus we must root ourselves in healthy relationships with God, men and accurate doctrine. The higher we go, the more humble we must become. The higher we go, the more perilous pride becomes. The higher realms demand greater transparency and humility. Lets not miss the coming revivals of love, intimacy and power with God! We don’t want to ignore our weakness or humanity. But for Gospel’s sake, lets never elevate man’s weakness greater than God’s mercy or strength. We must be more impressed with God’s ability than man’s failure. Right now most of religion is still addressing man’s weaknesses. We have yet to get to God’s glory, love, justice, mercy and strength. Settle it in your heart- you are a pilgrim for the glory of God!
Happy Christ Birth Day 2011- John and Sharon
African Mission Chronicles “The Delicate Sound of Justice”
I shared a message in July at a funeral of a boy who was poisoned. There was maybe 500 or more people there (there was too many for me to count- its not the important part).We were going to bury this son whose life was taken by suspected foul play. The meeting changed from severe grief (like 20 plus people just crying and fainting, falling down) to lightness and comfort after I shared the message. I thank God for great grace! Several people gave their lives to Jesus, one ran to the front of the gathering and got on his knees to pray. People were visibly moved from the grief of losing a son to a greater hope. Friends, God can come and impart such inspiration, healing and hope! I don’t make light of such a serious matter- but God’s truth, love and justice is more enduring than those that make us cry here on earth. That our hope, and all our brothers and sisters (Hebrews 11). This justice message happened to coincide with the same day as the birthday of Southern Sudan. The sister of the deceased was in Juba, and also attended the funeral.
The corruption in nations comes because there is godlessness- if there is no God who cares then we are stuck negotiating or bribing men. Think about it. If all we have is men to place our hope in- then anything is permissable. Misplaced faith is just idolatry, pure and simple. We need to awaken the church and nations again- a trumpet is going out. When you are left to human resource, don’t be so shocked at the results. You can sum up corruption by a phrase “i put my faith in you a man- a choose a mortal instead of Jesus Christ.” Because we in the church buy into a future theology ‘someday in eternity there will be good things, blessings’ we often lose hope. Hope deferred makes everyone sick. Friends, God has installments of justice available now, through the Book of Acts, Revelation and also into eternity. Notice Jesus preached the Kingdom of God now, increasing, and final future fulfillment. He never said ‘you have to wait until Heaven after death- sorry!”
Many today are confused about humanitarian justice as well as divine justice. Is there a difference? Part of the confusion comes from the idea that we have to go around seeking revenge. The other part of confusion comes from extreme doctrines, errors and even heresies. Our tendency is to gravitate towards teachings that we like, but we quickly delete or edit the portions we don’t understand. Or we dislike it- we place it all under a misnomer called “grace”. Friends we don’t have to understand everything to follow Jesus. But we do have to resist the trend to boil down God to our own small-mindedness. This is happening today all over the world. Seeing Jesus is to see the greatness of God’s mercy, justice and grace. Don’t settle for less. Many theologians are stuck with their nose in a book- they are looking for a God in their own likeness. He doesn’t heal, doesn’t love, isn’t moral, ‘the anything goes God.” The worst thing we can do is bring down God to our shallow mind, understanding- without mystery or Majesty.
Divine grace, love and justice is a tightly bound cord- along with God’s mercy. I hope by the end of these video’s you can feel inspired that our Heavenly Father cares about our needs, our neighborhoods and our nations.A snake was released in the Garden of Eden- he went about the whole world lying, deceiving, stealing and bringing death. In the Book of Revelation he reappears “the dragon- that ancient serpent.” (Rev 12:12). Divine justice comes to stomp on the head of that wicked serpent. God’s justice will erase any memory of the pain, suffering and defeat. God fights for His Sons and Daughters- the true owners of the earth. Satan is only a temporary visitor, fighting to maintain his illegal foothold. He is what Jesus said “he has been lying since the beginning- he was a murderer from the start.” The primary target of God’s wrath is the demonic/satanic world. The primary recipients of God’s justice is humanity, especially those on the path to knowing Jesus Christ. I don’t want to limit God- His laws and principles even work with unbelievers (read the Bible).
Like the Prodigal son in Luke 15- you have promises to be restored to you (justice). You have a place of fulfilling your destiny. There’s a new robe, a new ring and a new day before you. There’s a striking down of wicked spiritual forces- those that violently oppose Gods kindess, rule and justice. The primary target is that ancient snake- he who enslaves men, starts genocide, tribalism and racism. Lets get our faith in the right place, in our benevolent Father. Let stop trying to put our faith in everything else= money, people, people in position, famous people….. where our problems began! God has all our answers during these pivotal times..
Today our prayer is that grace, love and justice flow into every painful and bitter thing- that your weaknesses get turned into His strength. That stolen dreams and abilities become restored. That people like Zachaeus and Matthew the Tax Collector are baptized into God’s grace and justice- and restore everything that was taken. Its time to dream again Beloved- the Times of Divine Justice are upon us. Gods grace, love and justice are not opposites but a 3 stranded cord that will never be broken. Justice’s primary purpose is to restore what God wanted to give you- and to your children forever.
Grace and Peace
John and Sharon
- With the IRIS Food Relief team in Kitale. Coordinating to send a semi-load of food to Lodwar and hard hit drought regions of Turkana.
Mission Chronicles October 2011 “USING THE SIMPLE KEY”
OPPOSITE BUT NOT EQUAL
Gods Kingdom is described as opposite of common values, but never equal. Everything is superior, majestic and wonderful. The writer of Hebrews refers to it in terms of ‘better.’ Its a kingdom based on true love, life and justice. Darkness and light, love and hate are not equals. Humility and pride. Its a conflict of opposites, but not equals.
One of the best compliments we have received lately is that we stay ‘among’ the Kenyan people. We are with them. Today, as I left a meeting one of the village chiefs stopped me (at a restaurant). “I have to hand it to you” he pauses for a minute. “You are different- these Western nations often come across as high and arrogant. Your family and your mission is different- thanks for showing that difference. You aren’t separate as other foreigners.” This was one of the best compliments we ever received. Its interesting that even immigrants such as Somalis and some others separate themselves in Kenya. Separate= not intermingling or meeting. Living in a different part of town like Chinatown, Little Mexico or where they are comfortable in their culture. These are common generalizations, but there are wonderful exceptions.
SO SIMPLE YOU CAN MISS IT
Love and faith reign in Heaven and throughout His world. Its full of simplicity but its depths are deep as the Pacific Ocean. In our world, intellectualism and pure logic are esteemed. Much of it is full of hate, arrogance and certainly unbelief. Its vogue to be a skeptic or a cynic. In God’s Kingdom, “simplicity and godly sincerity” wins the day. (2 Cor 1: 12)
God’s greatest rewards revolve around love and faithfulness- the character and nature of Jesus. Its so simple, but it hidden to the wise of today. Its often not esteemed in the technological world, the art world, the entertainment or the government arena today. Even in the church world, you will find few pursuing love and faithfulness. How our world will be different when it is full of whole-hearted lovers who seek only to bless people!
God’s love is a tree of life- it has branches of wisdom and revelation. Just as Jesus’ Cross is a tree of life, so if as we remain in Him we bear much fruit. I want us to focus on the simplicity of loving God and loving people today. This is why Jesus told Peter “Feed me Sheep.” (John 21) He was merely repeating with simplicity the first 2 commandments. “If you love my Father, you will love people.” Paul the apostle says it another way “Your love will abound with wisdom and all knowledge.” (Phil 1)
Practical love stems from this root of simplicity. As you follow the faith and love of Christ, oceans of understanding will come into you. Light about your nation, your family, and your difficult situations. This light is not accessed by books or previous experience. Reading history is helpful- you can see repeat patterns (human errors that keep recycling). All human knowledge is useful. God’s love opens the door to levels and layers of profound revelations. These revelations can be as numerous as infinite.
REWARDS- NOW AND FOR ETERNITY
Jesus resolutely went to the Cross. His pattern of life, death and resurrection is an eternal pattern. Its prophetic- it stands at Creation, Sin, Fall, and 2000 years ago. It will stand in eternity (Revelation 5). You cant improve upon it. Its the model for all disciples and believers. Its an absolute pattern that you can lean on it your own life situations. Jesus is the forever model of love and faithfulness. He became human to show us even you can walk in such a way.
Its a fiery love with purpose. In the OT and NT its referred to as love and faithfulness. “In love and faithfulness is a throne established.” (Isaiah, Proverbs).
I recently watched a music video. What made it stand out? One word= passion. Again love is two edged sword. If only us Jesus’ lovers would do things with all their hearts! I remember when I worked as a carpenter. Do you know what set my work apart? Passion to be excellent at wood designs, installation and keeping my word. Love and faithfulness will set you apart. Its a two edged sword, for good and for evil. Oh when we behold a passion for God and the (one) thing he wants for us!
Sometimes when a business or ministry grows, it can lost its founding principles. People start excellent and later end up shoddy. This happens when people move the goal posts towards money or increase (too quickly). We are faced with a choice to compromise at each level, or maintain the initial passion and quality that set us apart. Why are we succeeding at African missions? Because we love it so much- we love God and we love the people He gives us. Passion and focus- pure and simple. The passionate win- in every sport, in every innovation, in every ministry and every media venue. Passion sets you apart my friend- it’s part of love. God’s love is not stoic or aloof like the Deist view.
Get love, dear one. Its just that simple. Pursue love, Paul told Timothy.
In this Kingdom, the more complicated you become the quicker you lose love. The more complex the sooner you will forget simplicity. In fact if you look at our world today you will see the pull of lust (desire for many things). There is a secret in Scripture called “the one thing” which David and Paul said “One thing I desire.” (Psalm 34, Phil 3) God grace us to flow in one divine passion, the eternal flame that overcomes the confusion of many things.
WINNING THE CHAMPIONSHIP
I noticed how joy increases when we simply love people. Loving people with different religions and values in our town. All the rewards now and in eternity flow from Jesus- he showed us that love is the true path. John put it this way “how can you claim faith in the invisible God if you don’t love people right in front of you?” (1 John 3) Dear ones, God’s highest truths are so simple. The proud stumble over them, even scoff at it “its so simple its stupid.” That’s why many people wont put faith in Christ- it looks so foolish, weak and basic. Much of God’s truths are clothed in humility and simplicity- just like Jesus’ as an infant in a manger. The King could have stayed at the King David hotel in Jerusalem (a 5 star) but he went to the countryside. May we all be able to use the simple key- loving God and letting Him love others through us.
Blessings multiplied- John and Sharon October 2011
MISSION CHRONICLES, September 2011 SEEING THROUGH JESUS’ EYES
WHEN THE MISSIONARY STRUGGLES TO BELIEVE
Gazing at my torn newspaper clipping and jotted notes from this month. Missions in Africa is as thrilling and difficult as it gets. Before going into missions I was a former supervisor/business owner- we tend to be realists, not exaggerating politicians. One minute you are crossing a river to meet a new tribe. Yesterday someone needs $2 for medicine- today (seriously today) a villager is not happy if he gets $1000. You meet authentic needs where $2 or $5 can save lives. Then you meet the greedy, the diabolical- greed beyond measure. Money is neutral but when not submitted to God it has a negative force behind it. Study Baal Hamon in the OT and Jesus called it Mammom in the NT- for those of you who enjoy. Money is a great servant but a terrible master. Money is only a partial solution, never the whole solution. It works best under control, and is a tyrant if it ever gets control of our thoughts, mind and desires. Our brother in law from DR Congo (see attached photos) describes the glory of Congo- the greatness and potential. Yet its overrun by confusion and greed. Who will bring God’s light and redemption to those places?
The same day in missions (continued) a Muslim is viewing you through foreign policy= Iraq, Libya, Israel. We didn’t call them enemies, but its how they define us thru Islamic theology. You have 2.5 strikes against you like Iran, Howard Stern, and CNN describes. In Gospel missions you discover that people are the same all over the world. People have the same needs, desires and wants. Another person suddenly shows up at my house- he’s a sorcerer and not the Harry Potter version. (more later at the end of this article). God wants us to love the people He brings to us. Where are the voices of Gospel love? Or are they drowned out by many things? Jesus said the love of most will grow cold in the last days (Matt 24).
Just like Jesus lived with the people in Galilee and Israel, so missionaries are among the people. When you participate with people’s needs at weddings, funeral, fundraisers, in the Hospital, at emergencies in good times and bad– people know that you are with them and for them. This is a missionary secret since the time of Jesus- being among people in their good times and bad times. Jesus placed the emphasis on being the church, more than attending synagogue (the church of the day). Jesus ate at people’s homes. People knew that He was with them- not only in preaching and miracles. When you are at people’s weddings, funerals, hospital- they take you at a more serious level than a tourist or visitor. One of the most hurtful things i heard last year a Kenyan asked me ‘do American’s think we are animals?’ – its seems an obvious ‘no’. But actually he was serious, that in all the talk of a dark continent he wondered how we view them. The good news is that after you eat 2 or 3 meals with someone, they quit speculating on the ridiculous and negative. Think about that- when you eat with people, then you are truly knowing them. Jesus’ success was that He ate with His disciples, ate with Pharisees, and many others.
WHY FAITH?
Recently I meditated why faith is so important to God. Its something that got His attention with David and Abraham. Its actually worth more than diamonds, gold and $. But its treated like refuse, rubbish in our world. This is the truth. The whole Kingdom operates on the principle ‘the precious things of God must be hungered for, longed for, searched for- mined, taken patience with and properly esteemed= treated with honor and deemed precious.” That’s why people get content at the entry levels of faith- salvation, going to church, getting forgiveness or even starting a ministry. The deeper levels of personal sacrifice, risk, service and revelatory love aren’t reached. Faith is defined as – following God’s instructions. For people who are parents when your kids believe you its the same as honor. It is one of the few things that pleases you. When your children doubt and disobey you its one of the few things that grieves you.
The true levels of faith, love and peace are revealed in crisis- when things aren’t going well. Its easy to have a vision in prosperity and abundance. Its divine empowerment when you have a vision in lack, need and lack of basic essentials. Think about it. Rick Joyner often says “people cruise down a highway at 70mph- not realizing someone took the hard work to create that road.” Its so true. As we look at developing our prayer mountain and conference/school center its a work of vision. We have so far to go. But we can see the youth whose lives will be bettered, who will become leaders and visionaries in Africa. Faith and love activates every good thing on this planet. But since Genesis 3 we got possessed by unbelief. Now faith and love seems so hard. At one time it was our 1st or 2nd nature- our 2nd sight. Now we can only define it from a distance, our ’6th sense’. Truly it was our first eyesight, in the Garden of Eden. Now people look at you like you are a crazy person if you call yourself a “believer in Jesus Christ and the Bible.”
SLIDING DOWN THE SLIPPERY SLOPE
Humanity is on a slippery slope everywhere. It’s what Jesus’ said ‘all these things the Gentiles (the whole world) seeks” (Matthew 6:32). Seeking money, power and possessions to clothe ourselves. Your talents and abilities can bring you notoriety and fame. There’s nothing wrong with fame or success- but too often it gives us a false sense of security. We begin to put our faith in our achievements, money or what people say. Its a mirage= its not reality. One sickness, one car accident, one anomaly changes everything. Just look at Michael Jackson for example. We can’t even know the day we depart this world- and we presume we are so in control of our lives and those around us. That’s a shocking truth that levels all of humanity. The Muslim Nigerian president was sworn into office in 2009 and died in 2011 before his term expired. Now a Christian is in his place. We cannot control as much as we think- even with millions and billions of dollars.
If you see a person successful without God you will usually see a self confident, arrogant edge to them. They confuse their prosperity and abundance with their own talents or abilities. The rich man did this (Luke 12) until he died in the nighttime- he died saying ‘i will accumulate more’ (Luke 12:18). The common problem with humanity is that they have a defaced identity- they see themselves through their possessions- not in the love and faith of Christ. They get their identity outside of everything but son-ship or daughter-hood of God. How would you feel if your own children felt ‘well I am nothing unless I have a Jaguar car, $1000 in the bank, and a big house?” Every parent would feel grief that their children only feel valued through ‘stuff’. All of humanity suffers various degrees of this delusion. It’s a belief that’s rooted in (spiritual) poverty- but its not recognized. Its like Adam and Eve trying to clothe themselves with fig leaves after they fell from grace.
There is no problem having money or things. Its only when they become the major thing we focus on, or when they gain control of us (master). Once we step onto the slippery slope of ‘my identity is in my $, possessions, or achievements’ its just that- very slippery. We wont feel content- someone will always have more than us, or outdo us. At times we may feel accomplished and even proud. At other times we will feel insecure and small. Either way we lose. God invites us into a better way (following Him) where He defines things- and our rock solid relationship with Him is unchanging- whether you have a billion dollars or one dollar. Whether you raise the dead or people die when you pray for them. Whether you are big or small. God gives us a permanent place, which gives us confidence to launch out in greater dimensions of faith, hope and love. Once your identity is not based on what you have or what you do, then you can be trusted with much more- it doesn’t contort your sense of identity. Saul couldn’t handle Kingship in Israel. When David was challenged by a rebellious Absalom, David said “I will let Jerusalem go- If God wants me here He will restore me.” When we love God more than ALL things on this earth, we can truly handle things down here. But when we fall in love with these things, they begin to contort our nature. They become our master and we compromise to hold them. When money is our god it torments and tortures us. It dictates every decision. Tithing breaks this stranglehold, because in tithing it invites God to be first place in our $. Its not really about our needs, the preacher or the church. Tithing says “God I put you first, come into this vital area of our life. Show us how to walk with you in finances. You make 90 percent go farther than 100 percent in my own wisdom.” I used to protest the church talking about money ‘all the church talks about is money’ i cried. But most us spend 40 hours a week (or more) working and earning ‘money’. Its only because I had not submitted to the Lordship of Jesus in the area of money. You will find the people who complain about money most (in church) is because money is the lord of their life. Mammon is in control- that spiritual force Jesus warned about. God wants to come into every arena of our life, not just our money.
THE PROBLEM OF OUR EYES
Its true that there are many needs and problems in the world- but our sin damaged minds usually see the problems (and seldom true solutions)- and then react in our own strength. Its like going to a prison and talking to a prisoner- and all of your answers are ‘prison’ related- there’s no getting out of prison because you are prison focused. You talk of shackles, prison sentences, crime and much more. Jesus did everything the opposite- if you are sinful, you get forgiveness. Sick, you get healed. Dead (spiritually and physically) you get resurrection. If demonized you get deliverance. We are addicted to our natural eyes and understanding. All of our problems are related to leaning on our own ability and answers. We dig ourselves deeper– not knowing that there is a better way- the Jesus Way. Mankind mis-diagnoses itself continually. The man with cancer thinks Oxycontin is the right pill. Its like the drunk man who came to church on Sunday– he wants money. How much money will it take to fix the drunk man who spends 100 dollars a day on beer? Our answers on earth are like that– we react and respond in our mind– without faith (God’s perspective) we can’t help anyone. Its the same root of unbelief and lust that John described ‘lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life.’ (1 John 2:16) Its the opposite of faith, hope and love. Its the opposite of the mind, heart and eyes of God. In Jesus’ eyes He sees through another lens. All things are hopeful, possible and do-able- even impossible situations. If we don’t want Jesus’ view then by default we are choosing the lesser version. Even when the Prophet Samuel went anoint a king, his eyes leaned towards good looking, physical attributes. (1 Samuel 16-17) He nearly missed the boy David some distance away who was shepherding in the pen. Our natural eyes will get us deep into trouble every time. God gently spoke to Samuel the necessary correction- “Man looks at outward appearance, God looks at the heart.” Gods basic pattern is calling out the overlooked, the underrated, the rejected, the scorned- if you every felt disqualified then today in God’s eyes you are qualified for significance.
TWO TREASURES
In many ways this worlds success and God’s success are complete opposites. His treasures are so different than the ones attained down here. You cannot serve God and $. You can’t esteem faith, hope and love (and grow up) while stealing, lusting, cheating, deceiving. Some things are either/or. You won’t get both treasures- God’s Kingdom treasure is faith, hope love, peace, joy, patience, faithfulness, kindness. Many people sacrifice these to get= bigger this, bigger that or more money. More recognition. More promotion. More cars. More notoriety. Bigger and more stuff. These things are not bad, they are only self defeating when you get cars dishonestly. When your business gets promoted and you walked on people. When you increase but you chewed your nails, got divorced and stepped on the precious people God trusted you with. This world has a confusion of identity and priority. Sometimes church is the worst because people appear to be ‘so good’ and yet its the opposite, they are only hiding. Its possible to be a wealthy man like Solomon (its rare) but its possible. Yet its far more common to be poor spiritually. How? Because when they were ‘getting’ they did it so sinfully. Someone can appear to be a millionare and still be full of wars and hate. “What causes wars? You lust and do not get” – (James 4:1-2) My brother in law just told me stories of his home in DR Congo- its easier to get the temporary treasure of gold and money, foregoing faith, hope and love. You can see we are hurtling towards the end of the Book “they did not repent of their sorceries, immorality, sexual immorality or thefts.” (Revelation 9:21) Its on the increase, not decrease in our world today. But the good news is so is God’s glory and revelation!
Paul said he was after the excellent knowledge of God by faith- faith is another knowledge, another glory, another level. Its experiential and real- not theoretical. Paul was greatly educated and positioned (Phil 3:16) and declared “i would trade it all to know Jesus- not like my theories, knowledge or Jewish heritage.” Life and faith in Jesus is a life outside of the confines of this world. Paul said he would trade his achievements for it- much like Moses who left the Egyptian Palace and began to encounter the glory of God in the desert. Sometimes knowing God involves walking away from some temporary treasure or positions. Whatever you walk away from, you are qualified to handle. What you walk away from, you master- it doesn’t master you.
THE HIDDEN TREASURES
Everything precious on earth is hid somewhere in dirt- diamonds, gold, etc. God made His treasures in Christ the same way. “In Christ are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Col 2:2) They were hidden in places like Nazareth and Bethlehem. There’s treasures of God and you don’t just stumble into them. He says there ‘arent many noble, many with status, many of worldly glory= God chooses the weak and despised things.’ (1 Corinthians 1:26) Its a different system and culture, the culture of Heaven and the culture of earth. Its more different than capitalism and communism- its that radically different.
Faith is a treasure because it is working even it seems nothing is happening (like the walls of Jericho). Faith has weakness of appearance and delay associated with it. God’s greatest treasures are often hidden away- that’s why they are not recognized as treasure. People kill steal and cheat for money and gold- not to get faith hope and love. Faith is seeing the world the way God does- ever redeeming, ever hopeful as brand new. God hides the treasure so that its not misused or abused like a lottery jackpot.. If something is not esteemed as a treasure it gets misused or neglected. Thats why you don’t hear much about faith, hope and love. Jesus Christ. People roll their eyes . Everything God treasures iis hidden in dirt. If you are looking for an excuse to bypass His glory you will find one readily available. If you are looking for a reason not to believe, then you will always find one.
“The Kingdom is like a treasure hidden in a field ” Matthew 13:44. Dear one, you buy the field- you get the stinky dirt, cow manure, stares from the community and chatter ‘what does he want with that ugly field?” This is much like the missions field. Like where our mission land is…. there’s simply nothing. I remember taking some missionaries from another continent there and they were painfully quiet. They spoke about another mission in another part of Africa that was so fruitful and developed. People recognize treasure in maturity and development. People love diamonds in a showroom, but don’t love the cave and mining process that possesses the treasure. Every mission starts in smallness, weakness and immaturity. After 10 years you will say ‘wow now that’s a mission’. This gift of vision is what reveals treasure in people and nations. That’s part of the fire of our mission- we long to see what God sees. If you want to simplify faith– its seeing what God sees in every person, tribe and nation- in every situation. That’s the basic contrast with the lust, greed and unbelief that drives this worldly system- people even kill, lie and steal to suit their greed. If we let God open our eyes, we will begin to see how He sees people. This is Biblical faith- i didn’t say it was instantaneous, sometimes it is and many times it is not.
MENTORING IS GOLD-MINING
We aren’t against donor-ship or mercy gifts, please never misunderstand us. We have never been against money (we used to make a lot of it, formerly in contracting in USA). It’s only that $ doesn’t address the root causes or prevention. One of our visions for Shiloh Prayer Mountain is a training center for short/practical seminars. Teachings and equipping that puts hammers in their hand, art in their mouth, revelation in their spirit. Without successors or torchbearers after us, we have failed as missionaries. Equipping goes way beyond land, buildings, finances (which are all essential). When you see Christ the answer in that young person, you know you are seeing the answer for Kenya, for Africa, for the world. Mentoring and training is the only way to transfer wisdom= God’s will for the times. As i said mercy deeds and generosity are essential- but we have to go from ‘last minute solutions’ to prevention, wisdom, and local responsibility. Training the next generation of leaders is the solution. Africans need very little, don’t let anyone fool you. They only need some revelatory wisdom, and /or trainings which God will bring. They are like the Ethiopian Eunuch in Acts 8- he had everything but needed Phillip to ‘interpret a passage so it could be applied to he and his nation.’ This is totally true- Africans only need encouragement, confidence and wisdom from God. They don’t need us to import all our ways and education- they need local specific trainings, prayer centers, youth centers that service and raise up the local youth. They don’t need perpetual IMF/World Bank loans. You can quote me on that, I have lived and worked here since 2000.
One reason why God makes faith a process is because when we get too sure of our resource, means- we make many mistakes. We don’t pray. We don’t ask or seek God. We spend money and in short become arrogant quicker. Success can really test every person or ministry. We tend to lean away from God when we reach our achievements and sometimes we give ourselves too much credit. You can see this in both missions and the business world- you can see the ones that pray, trust God. You can also see the ones who have alot of ‘stuff’ but are over confident and even self protective. The very ones who started with nothing get confused and now ‘are protecting what they have, for fear of loss or losing it.” We have seen this time and time again. You start out as a servant but end up dictatorial- abusing your position and proud of what you have and do. You can love people (sincerely) without agreeing with the destructive attitude that surrounds them.
Our success and wealth tend to make us lean away from Jesus- this is why both Abraham and Moses left their city, state and nation. Its hard to have faith when the convenience of friends and abundance surrounds you. It’s easy to have complacency and unbelief- its easier to put our faith in the people we see, taste, touch and hear. God sent both Moses and Abraham away from their familiar surroundings. This to is required for us in some measure to have true faith.
SECRET DOORWAYS
It says desperate people lowered a paralyzed man from the ceiling (Mark 2:4). God’s Kingdom is very much like that- it is hidden in plain view, but it tends to get possessed by the sincere, the hungry hearted, and the searching. The persevering get extraordinary doors to open, even through the roof or ceiling. If you are to casual (which borders dishonor at times) you won’t see or encounter God and His works. This happened with Israel in the wilderness. They became so accustomed to miracles that their hearts were hard and they went back to unbelief, rebellion “lets go back to Egypt its better there” they cried.
Our eyes of faith can see invisible doorways. It doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer- it creates a road, 4×4′s through a mountain, walks on water or even more amazing things. John was on a deserted Roman penal colony where they mined for salt. Yet one day he saw from God’s eyes “I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day”. One moment with God, from Jesus or the Holy Spirit perspective opens up realms of revelation, opportunities and joy in God. One moment you are in prison like John or Peter- the next minute angels are attending you, opening prison doors or taking you into the deep perspective of Heaven. One minute you are depressed about how weak and sinful you are- the next moment you see the great call and glory of God “Lord please send me” Isaiah pleaded (Isaiah 6). Who will have eyes to see such things? One minute you are powerless, the next minute God is doing miracles through you. I pray this for you and I today.
THE WONDER OF FAITH
Talk of utter inspiration- he looks at a world overrun with corruption, genocide, wars and racism and says “I make all things new”. What kind of wonderful faith and love is this? God only puts a comma over our lives in this age, the rest is yet to come. You had a bad season or era- you made many mistakes. You sinned big. His nature and world is awesome- awe inspiring and where miracles boast every moment. Where sounds more wonderful the Bach and Mozart play. Where Heaven looks ahead millions of year- to the planet with no sin, harm, tears. Where old lifestyles become brand new.
A VISIT FROM A SORCERER
Minutes ago i return to my prayer room (now typing this). Outside was a man who fits the description of Acts 8:9 “someone who practiced sorcery and was lauded by the people- a lover of money and power.” By the way the witchcraft/occult world and the money/Mammon spirit world inter connect. You will often find them side by side because “the love of money is the root of much evil.” He is the real version, not the Hollywood Harry Potter one we know of. Two weeks I was told by people in his family that he slept with human body parts, appendages. We were told that he was just in a sex abuse incident with someone close to him. Now he is at my house and God brought him! How will people (no matter how terrible their deeds) get clean, get freedom and change? Only the grace and Gospel of Jesus Christ. I just spent about 2 hours with the local sorcerer, he is not very scary but i do feel the spirit around him and my eyes literally now feel a cloudiness and irritation. Its likely the stories I heard were true, because he spent about one hour trying to tell me the incest story was gossip, untrue. I had the young girl some months ago with distress on her face. I remember asking myself ‘is such pain and abuse so common?’ I was crying inside my spirit. Indeed, heartbreak is everywhere in our communities and world. Here is the question- do we believe other stories or God’s story- the Good News for people? At times we have to not judge and condemn people, we need the eyes of Jesus Christ. If we don’t share the hope that liberates us, then it can’t liberate anyone else.
God takes people who come from the least likely to succeed areas. God loves building a testimony to His glory and power- that’s part of the reason why he chooses the lowest of the low. You can’t take pride for anything when you come from that low level. His grace abounds where sin abounds- sometimes we have to detach ourselves from the ‘ewhhh’ and ‘gross’ , and focus on the here and now of God. God is busy reconciling people who will listen. He invited the nobles of the world, but they didn’t want Him. So He went to the poor, despised, and inglorious (Luke 14:18-24) He is still reaching out too all today- but the proud, self assured, self successful seldom reach Him.
Pray for me as I go with a team Saturday (in 2 days) to this sorcerer’s house. We aren’t experts in this message, we are still learning this message of reconciliation.
Faith is a journey worth signing up for. (Genesis 12, Hebrews 11). It doesn’t come overnight. That’s the difference between growing up in the West with our drive thrus — we get used to instant results. Yet God is after a quality of faith and love– it doesn’t come thru showy results and broadcasting. It comes from God’s nature. If we don’t let people out of their prisons, they stay in prison (lust, greed, unbelief). If we don’t see the possibilities, they won’t see them. Sometimes we are too churchy and sanitized- we want people to come our way and dressed like us. Jesus went to people’s homes- what other secrets does this Missionary have? What other doorways and missed opportunities will we see through His eyes? As we see, we won’t miss divine appointments any longer.
SOME APPLICATIONS
1) Recognize extraordinary opportunities around your life- in difficult people and difficult situations. Ask God to open the eyes of your heart (Ephesians 1:18)
2) “Lord open my eyes and ears to see and hear like you do- the Faith of Christ, the Love of Christ. Show us all the hidden doors. Show us the hidden Paul the Apostles, King David, John the Beloveds “Oh God to see what you see, feel what you feel , hear what you hear- we say Yes Lord take us there so you may live your life through us”
3) Its like a foreign language or prescription glasses. God give us the right glasses to see people and situations around our life. Even some of us rejected Jesus- we didn’t see value in Him. Then our eyes were opened. We need ears, eyes and hearts of revelation.
4) May God give you the joy of the journey walking with Him- may He be very near to you. May you see everything thru Heaven’s eyes- every living person has hope, dreams and future fulfillment. Every dead and decaying situation can revive to resurrection. This is the preciousness of our faith ‘more precious than gold.’
THANKS PARTNERS, FRIENDS AND INTERCESSORS- JOHN AND SHARON SEPTEMBER 2011
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SHILOH HOUSE MISSION CHRONICLES AUGUST 2011 “WIN THE WAR OF WORDS”
AUGUST MISSION NEWS:
- Sharon’s sister Becky was married this month, to a pastor and musician from DR Congo. It was a great day and family reunion. (view attached photos)
-Testimonies and stories from some our meetings this month, people giving their life to Jesus Christ. One large meeting last week with over 500 people, people came forward for prayer, healings and salvation. Our mission has an increasing edge on it- of Gospel truth, working together with all tribes, people and ministries. The month of August has been one of our most fruitful months since we returned to Kenya in 2008. Unbelievers came to Jesus in the month of August!
- Our baby Asher is happy and healthy. Thanks for praying and believing. Family is the core of all things including society, business and ministry.
-New prayer partners and friends are coming every month. Some of you are on Facebook, others are not. Thank you, your support multiplies our efforts here in Kenya and Africa. We esteem every one of you. Its a challenge staying in touch. In some parts of Africa the internet is not great. Thanks for bearing with us.
- A remote mountain outreach in North Rift Vally. (see photos at www.shilohhousemission.org) Very fruitful outreach in a mountainous place where people seldom travel.
THE CREATIVE POWER OF WORDS
Words are probably some of the most under estimated tools around us today. People downplay words, but they are like a hammer, a paintbrush or 30-06 rifle. People say things like “sticks and stones break bones but names/words can not hurt me.” The fact is that many people are in situations today because of words spoken- their own or others around them. Words have more power than money excess or lack thereof. Words talk people into prosperity and also poverty- it just depends on what that person believes.
While people imagine words are unimportant, Jesus taught the opposite. Jesus used names and words to root his disciples in the love of God. He looked at Peter (before Peter’s famous denial) and said “you are a Rock– thats who you are.” Jesus understood that revealing treasure in Peter or John was through words. He didn’t minimize correcting them- but He spoke to their potential, their glory and their redeemed humanity. He didn’t say “you sinful sorry excuse of a thing”. Rather He did the opposite “Beloved, i have called you and purposed wonderful things through you.” Its interesting that the more we focus on God’s love and purpose for us, the less we get stuck in our weakness and inabilities. In some religions they guilt trip people, shaking them over hell with a rotten stick “you better shape up, God doesn’t really like you– He is looking for an excuse to send you to Hell.” Yet God is actually the opposite. Everything in God and Heaven breathes love, redemption and purpose for us. Its only our doubt and fear that locks it out of our life. Many religious people like guilt, shame and fear. They haven’t been perfected by God’s love- they only know ‘i better behave, if I misbehave God may hate me.’
The earth was created by Gods words (Genesis 1, Hebrews 1). Experiences with God and His Word were treated as a precious treasure “the Word of the Lord was rare- there was no widespread revelation” 1 Samuel 3:1. Words have incredibly more power than we realize “life and death come thru our words” also blessings and curses (Proverbs 18, Deuteronomy 28, James 3). We conclusively say “words have much power for good or evil.” Jesus said “Mankind lives by every Word that comes from God- not by bread alone.” You can apply this to mean that God’s words are especially important. More important than our food, friends, money, achievements or any of the things satan offered Jesus during the desert temptation period. God’s living Word gives us what nothing on earth gives us: freedom, love and confidence with God. No money can purchase that. No famous person can give you that. No title or position can assure you of that.
HOW TO WAR WITH YOUR WORDS
Bad words confirm our greatest fears and weakness. God’s words confirm our true destiny and calling. God doesn’t wait for perfection to set in- he spoke the greater purpose of God over Peter’s life even when Peter wasn’t ready for it. He did the same with Jacob “Jacob you will be Israel.- your nature and purpose will change.” Israel had prophecy, and you have prophecy. Its a proven fact that when you write something down or speak it out, that its more likely to happen. “I am going to the store to buy lettuce.” You are more likely to do it after you speak it. “I am going to college to get my master’s degree.” People too timid to speak such a thing, are unlikely to achieve that thing. Few people get a master’s degree accidently. People treat words the same way- too casually and accidental. But James 3 says “words are your rudder, they are your spark and create big forest fires. They bless and curse.”
I want to suggest to you today that simple words dictate your destiny. I want you to consider that you are the product of all the words you have written or spoken. “I charge you by the prophecies (words) spoken to you.. . wage the good warfare.” 1 Timothy 1:18-19 Here is the simple truth- words either make you clean or defile. They either take you closer to faith and love towards God, or farther away. Your conscience either gets clean or get defiled. Haven’t you ever heard stories that made you feel bad inside? Compared to good stories- the ones that made you inspired and focused. I suggest to you today that you are the product of the words spoken to you, and spoken by you. That actually one application Paul is urging Timothy “use those divinely inspired Words to achieve your purpose- and cast aside all other distracting words and influences.”
Paul told Timothy ‘war with your prophecies” You could interpret it clearly as Paul saying “war with the good words of God and His promises towards you. Don’t allow fear to overcome you. God is a spirit of love, power and sound mind.”
Jesus said “You are already clean because of the words which I have spoken” John 15:3 The Words of Jesus and the Bible have a cleansing, purifying and focusing effect on us. His Words are always hope filled and promising, even in the most hopeless situation.
“WRITE THE WORDS DOWN” – 2005, MONTANA USA
In 2005 I drew a timeline while I was working as contractor in Montana USA. On the timeline was our return to Kenya, land aquisition and the mission base. I sat down with Sharon and we discussed our long term and short term goals. I had no idea that most (or all) of what I wrote down would come true. Now as i look at the paper, i say ‘the words came true.’ We discussed our plans, spoke it out and chronicled it, writing it down. That piece of paper is in our house today in Kenya.
“Write the vision down, its for an appointed time- though it delays it will come to pass” Habakkak 2:2-3
Our words (written and spoken) have power. You don’t have to be charismatic or radical in your faith to understand this truth. You just have to be honest. Even as I write this today I am painfully aware of the responsibility and authority of my words- in my family, in church, in the community. I have gained friendships thru my words and gained accusations because of them. Words are a 2 edged sword “is not my Word living and active?” Hebrews 4:12 Because we walk in Gods image we carry a deposit of the creative word inside of us. That’s why you feel bad if someone curses you or despises your potential. When someone says “you are a loser-” it can really stunt your growth and damage your confidence. Words are power, because words are spirit (see John 6:62). How do you know the spirit is gone from the body (death)? He/she quits speaking. No more words. Words and the spiritual realm are interconnected. “My words are spirit and life” John 6:62.
In our region of Kenya, words are instrumental. People are fearful of bad words spoken against them. Especially if it is the village elders or people with authority. Stories abound of thieves and criminals running back to the elders, confessing “yes we did steal and commit crime. Please forgive us, and remove the curse!” This happens in parts of Africa in our place, at Lake Victoria or Mombasa (Coast Province). The power of blessings and curses are very real. Somehow witches and hirelings are paid to use the curse world. Just like Balak paid Balaam to curse Israel. What are curses but bad words, omens and wishes towards your enemy- some forms of gossip qualify. In Africa its just that simple, plus a little ceremony and religious mystique. People aren’t able to have children- because of words. People are sick- because of words. People are in poverty- because of words. One of our good ministry friends went through a massive transition 2 years ago. His school and church building was stolen by crafty elders inside the church. They plotted more than just theft- they wanted to destroy his reputation, ministry and any good influence he had. We stood up with him and said “you are not going to perish here. You are an overseer and pastor of a region here in Kenya. You are a spiritual father to many- you helped many. You will go to the next level and this will turn into a good thing for you.” Words of encouragement are incredibly powerful- the Book of Proverbs says “life and death are in the tongue- the tongue has much power.” How do you know the intentions of someone, good or evil= by their words. Words are a gateway to Heaven and to Hell. The television and internet today deliver you words and messages from both these eternal places every day.
GOD KEEPS HIS WORDS FOREVER- THIS WORLD BREAKS THEIR WORD DAILY
Good words spoken on the wedding day can turn into bad words spoken during the 20th year of marriage. We have to guard our families and communities from the power of bad words. Words are just like seeds, they produce fruit every time. Read Mark 11:23 how Jesus spoke to His disciples about the power of their words. The world doesn’t understand the power of God’s Words and therefore breaks words just as much as they eat breakfast. Breaking words is a common as sleeping, eating or touching money. Yet words are spiritual currency- they have life, power and meaning attached to it. Jesus said “Those who love me keep my words. My Father will love him and we will come and make our home with him.” John 14:23 That can only be understood and appreciated, as a marriage for example. People who call themselves Christians “because they go to a church building one day a week” can’t understand Jesus’ sayings. Its like saying “we are married, but we only meet each other on Sunday.” No wonder why many Christians don’t understand the power of Words and God’s Word. Heaven is another country and Kingdom, with another language and value system. The currency and laws are different. The language is different. Forgiveness is extreme in our world today- a different language. Loving your enemies is strange today- people are blowing up their enemies in the Middle East and Africa, daily. Giving and generosity is difficult today, the global recession is real. God’s Words are like the ways of another language, culture and nation. He who has ears let him hear what the Spirit says– that was a saying Jesus spoke throughout the Gospels and Book of Revelation.
GODS LANGUAGE IS LIKE A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
In the Garden of Eden we understood God’s plans and speech just as a good friend knows the dialect and nuances of their friend. After the Sin and Fall of man, it changed. We began to no longer hear God’s Spirit and instead our natural eyes and ears took supremacy. Our spiritual eyes and ear senses dulled, hardened. Now God’s Words and speech is like a foreign language. It used to be our first priority and instinct. Now His Word are and irritation and nonsense to most- like listening to a foreign tongue without understanding.
“Why do you not understand my speech. Because you are not able to listen to My Word.” John 8:43 Jesus literally told them that His Word is like another language, and another country. He was from above and we are from below. “My sheep follow me and they know My Voice- they don’t listen to the voice of strangers. ” John 10:4 By the help of Jesus and Holy Spirit we can receive and understand spiritual truth again. By surrendering our whole life to Jesus, this begins. Its like immigrated from one country to another. “You are translated from the Kingdom (country) of darkness to the Kingdom (country) of His dear Son” Collossians 1:13 You are born again from the Kingdom (country) of Heaven- a heavenly seed that never dies, but gets resurrected and brings life to all things. 1 Peter 1:23 Don’t expect humanity who doesn’t prize words or keeping their word to understand this. Our newborn baby doesn’t understand English words right now. He knows sounds, grunts, cries and smiles. Its just like this with God’s Heavenly language and Bible. Babies we can only understand certain sounds and tones- not full English or French. As we drink the milk of the Word, our depth grows in this Heavenly language. “In the beginning was the Word (logos) and the Word was with God- the Word is God. ” John 1:1-2
Be encouraged today. Paul stood in a dark storm- a cyclone that bewildered them for many days. The power of God’s Word was flowing inside Paul. He declared in the height of the hurricane during great fear and distress- “Dont fear. I have a mission from God and must appear in Rome. Take heart, be encouraged. We will be shipwrecked but wont lose life.” Acts 27:25 Paul won the battle with his words. David defeated Goliath with words, before he every threw a stone. He told Goliath “you are an enemy of God and you will be defeated today.” 1 Samuel 17 Both Paul and David did something unusual. They declared the opposite of the fear and intimidation before them. Words have creative power for our victory or defeat. Gods word is light in a dark world. Whatever words we entertain or treasure, is what eventually sprouts and bears fruit. Whatever we give place in our life eventually grows like a tree and bears fruit. This is known as the law of sowing and reaping. (Matthew 13) Today may God help all of us to use our words wisely. They are the foundation for our future victories and/or defeats.
APPLICATION TODAY= TO BUILD UP, NOT TEAR DOWN
Measure the time you spend with discouraging people. You can’t help them if you are pulled down into despondency. Here is a good plan 1) Read your Bible. I recommend the Word of Promise audio Bible with people like Jim Caviezal and others. Its powerful to hear one chapter per day, over your life. The Word of Promise Bible is really well done, but there are other also. 2) Fill up your encouragement account. Just like in marriage if you are tired, you are prone to misunderstanding and strife. Take care and give place to rest – exhaustion and toiling leads to many problems in family, business and ministry. 3) Limit the influence of negative words. We are immersed in world of doubt, fear and unbelief. Its a war of words on CNN, FOX and most channels. Negative news sells- just remember that. Why do people call Africa the Dark Continent? Negative information attracts interest. There are many miracles and glorious things in Africa…but because of fascination with problems, death and sickness we haven’t heard the good stories. Limit the negative voice in your life 4) Like Apostle Paul and David, speak God’s word over your family and defying situation. You have to remember that God sees beyond your immediate weakness, failure and sin.
You are blessed in Jesus Christ. You will achieve the next level He ordained for you. You will become a Friend of God. Remember that the chances of achieving change and goals increases when you speak and write them.
Today we speak the Words of God over your life and situation- this ‘prophecy’ will keep you, because its solid as His Word. The Words of Jesus make you clean, every day, every time. You have every spiritual blessing in Christ. You are accepted, forgiven and blessed. You are appointed for generosity and salvation among the needy around your life. You are a lighthouse with the Love of Christ as a rudder, and peace and joy as a supernatural fuel. While people are in fear, you are moving in faith, hope and love. While others see obstacles and darkness, you are seeing the gateways to new opportunities and higher levels. There is door behind every storm. There is kingship after every defeated giant. Just look at Apostle Paul and King David.
Today he has a ministry to lift others- people around us who struggle with hopelessness and depression, economic recession. Today you are more than the sum total of your money, your struggles or perceived weakness. Today you are blessed in Jesus Christ- your are exactly what He says in His Word. We pray you will confess those Words, listen to them and believe them with all your heart. Amen!
Thank you for your love, prayers and support. We thank you for coming closer to us during this fruitful year. We love all of you!
John and Sharon
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Shiloh House Mission Chronicles July 2011 “Sudan- The Justice Makes Them Sing”
BORN AGAIN- THE NATION OF SUDAN (SOUTHERN)
Sudan has suffered thousands of years of persecution. Probably when Moses was in Egypt preparing for Exodus, the Sudanese were being enslaved from Southern Sudan. Its likely they were in the time of the building of the pyramids. They were always referred to in Arabic (transliterated) as ‘abed’ = the slave’. This same Arabic word appears in a Hebrew equivalent in Isaiah 53 “The suffering Abed-Yahweh.” This ancient prophecy refers to Jesus’ sufferings, death and resurrection. For more description click here. עבד abed http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abd_%28Arabic%29 It also refers to God waiting to bring justice to the whole world- alleviating suffering and bringing God’s glory to the entire earth.
In the Book of Exodus God says “I have heard the cries of my people…” This has very much been a similar situation to the nation of New Sudan. Its one of the best examples of divine justice in recent history. You see, God has a way of calculating the loss, shame, embarrasment and sufferings. He counts our tears in a bottle. God knows and God’s cares. He is a father (like any other father)- He wants to see goodness done towards His children. One of the reasons why we have to take our greatest issues of concern to God, is that He knows how make restore and repay all loss. This is why He says “vengeance in Mine says God.” We take high expectation from man out of the equation and we put full expectation in God. We quit talking to men about our problems and begin talking to God about our issues. Israel began talking (praying) to God and ended up liberated from slavery and possessing their own country. Getting justice from men is partial at best- they take a swing at it (in their sincerest way) and sometimes end up cutting off someone’s ear, like Peter did trying to defend Jesus in Gethsemane. Men’s justice is tentative and partial- God’s is full, long-term, and beyond expectation. God doesn’t take a swing at justice- He doesn’t try it when He is angry. He is just, loving and caring every day, at all times. God is never harsh, but looks for the most gentle way to help people.
THE JUSTICE SONGS
God’s justice is a forgotten attribute. Its easier to focus on forgiveness, mercy and other parts of His character. Yet you cannot subdivide God’s nature- He is just all the time, good all the time and kind all the time. Its not like He takes His “justice’ clothes off when He puts His kindness clothing on. Some have this idea about God. Others claim that the God of the Old Testament is harsh and judgmental, while the Jesus of the New Testament is full of kindness. This is a misunderstanding of His nature. Paul said in Romans 9 “Behold God’s kindness and severity”, meaning that He is His attributes all of the time. We live in a world of much injustice “no one cries for justice, no one cares” (Isaiah 59:4)
When Moses was on the mountaintop He saw God “the God of justice, mercy and truth” (Exodus 34). He saw God’s full-time character. Many theologians believe He met Jesus Christ that day- Jesus in His pre- Nazareth form. God’s glory went on display that day “the Lord gracious and compassionate, showing justice to 1000′s.” Moses was in awe at the visible, multi -dimensional glory of God in front of Him (Exodus 34:6).
Friend, the day is coming when all loss will be repaid. There is a day of reckoning when everything you lost will be repaid. There is a time coming when “God will bring you justice, speedily.” (Luke 18:1-8) This gets personalized to all of us. We may receive partial justice in this lifetime, while another installment follows in eternity. “The meek shall inherit the earth.” What this means is ultimate justice– the wicked leaders in this earth who corrupt, steal, persecute will come to an end. The humble (dependent upon God) will be given everything. God will not underpay or overpay- it will come justly. In the case of Southern Sudan (and the murder of so many of their innocent martyrs) their blood cried out “Lord, how long until you bring justice?” (Revelation 6:10). The Lord said “wait a little while longer”. You see, eventually Southern Sudan got more than they ever imagined- sovereignty, massive territory (splitting Africa’s largest nation in half) and much more. God’s justice may delay, but when it comes it will be more than any person can give.
JUSTICE DELAYED, NOT DENIED
This has been a recent (new) message we have been sharing in many places here. Today we encourage you that God is not distant, uncaring and unconcerned. God deeply cares about you. Maybe He was only waiting for you to have a conversation about it. “Lord why did this injustice happen? God, I forgive them- and I come to your for justice for the things that was stolen.” You see its faith focused on God, not focused on past wounds. Its a justice that unfolds….apart from perpetrators or people. Sometimes it’s only when we have exhausted every human answer that we finally turn to God. Like the nation of Sudan or Israel in Egypt “God hears our groans and our sufferings.” (Ex 3)
Friend, God cares enough for us to show us justice. The only question Jesus asked was “When I come to bring justice…. will anyone have active faith, looking to Me? Will I find faith? (Luke 18:1-8). Or will people be running around looking to people for only that which God can give you? Today justice is singing in the nation of Southern Sudan. Its in their anthem ‘thank you God’, they sing about their long awaited justice. Today we stand with God’s will in your life for justice, goodness and kindness. May the river of justice flow in your family, life, business, ministry and relationships, Amen!
Thanks to all our friends for your prayers, love and partnership
John and Sharon
July 4 2011
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