Open my eyes, that I may see and behold wondrous things…

Out of the mouth of babes:

“…and said to Him, “Do You hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise’?” (Matthew 21:16, New King James).

A few weeks ago, I received an email with a book excerpt.  I can’t remember what it was called or the authors name – sorry I can’t give them the credit they deserve!  But the crux of it was on the state of the world without Jesus.  What would the world be like if Jesus wasn’t born?  The author said, there’d be no new testament.  There would be no church, or not as we know it today – there wouldn’t be the church spires pointing skyward to remind us of our heavenly Father.  There wouldn’t be the love, grace, mercy as we know it through our salvation in Jesus nor would we have access to the Holy Spirit.   Now the author wrote it much more eloquently and creatively than I did – but none the less, it stuck with me.

At the dinner table, I asked Immanuel about his last day at school and remined him that the church nativity play was just around the corner.  I commented on how blessed we are to have Christmas – because without Jesus we wouldn’t have Christmas and the celebrations connected to it. (And perhaps we would have different celebrations, but it wouldn’t be the same.)

“So, everyone who celebrates Christmas is a Christian – but they just don’t know it yet.”  Those were my son’s musings.  I agreed and could see he was right.

“Yep. They are blind and can’t see Jesus.”

“Being blind would be horrible.”

 (Yes.  Especially spiritually blind – I know what it’s like to be spiritually blind and I know what it is like to be able to see the truth of Jesus – and there is no way that I would ever want to go back to that darkness.)

“It would be horrible to be blind…” He repeated and I could see him thinking this through.

“Yes, it would be.” And I couldn’t agree more with the words that were coming out of his mouth.  And he repeated it again – to accentuate the importance – that everyone who celebrates Christmas is Christian but they just do not know it yet… and I’ll add in – because their eyes have not been opened to Him – to Jesus yet.  ‘Yet’ – I keep adding in ‘yet’ because at some point, I know it will happen – my hope rests in knowing it will happen but… for some, it just hasn’t happened yet – and when it does – there will be marvellous testimonies that point back to glory and greatness of God.  This alone – fills my heart with excitement and joy and I wish I could come to know those stories… those stories that are being formed and waiting to come into being.

After Christmas, my son asked, “why doesn’t grandpa go to church?”  I could see he was trying to make sense of his world, to work out why do we go to church when no one else in our immediate family does.

“… because Grandpa doesn’t believe in church or Jesus.”

“… But he knows it exists… he knows it exists… he knows it’s a thing.”

“Yep. True.”

I didn’t really know how to answer this. 

I mean, how do you explain to a ten-year-old that some people see the brokenness of broken people connected to the church and the world – and connect it back to God.  The world’s brokenness combined with brokenness of people muddies the image of God.  Thus, forcing people to deny the existence of God.  But, it is probably more complicated than that – it always is.  Especially when you add in spiritual warfare –  and the devil is prone to come in, take, twist and hide by placing a veil over head to mask the truth – to keep us in darkness.

God’s word gives us knowledge and understanding into how the world operates from a spiritual perspective.  It informs us on how people are blind to the truth and how people seek worldly wisdom, and the cross becomes a message of foolishness.  God knows the truth of the world and how it operates – none of this is new to Him and He’s steps ahead of us all – and his word provides us with insight and understanding.

The Parable of the Sower

13 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. ² Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. ³ Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. ⁴ As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. ⁵ Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. ⁶ But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. ⁷ Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. ⁸ Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. ⁹ Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

¹⁰ The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?”

¹¹ He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. ¹² Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. ¹³ This is why I speak to them in parables:

“Though seeing, they do not see;
    though hearing, they do not hear or understand.

¹⁴ In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:

“‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
    you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.
¹⁵ For this people’s heart has become calloused;
    they hardly hear with their ears,
    and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
    hear with their ears,
    understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.’^[a]

¹⁶ But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. ¹⁷ For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.

¹⁸ “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: ¹⁹ When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. ²⁰ The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. ²¹ But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. ²² The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. ²³ But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” (Matthew 13:1-23 NIV)

“The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction!  But we who are being saved it is the very power of God.  As the scriptures say, ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and discard the intelligence of the intelligent.’

So, where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world’s brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish.  Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe.  It is foolish to the Jews who ask for signs from heaven.  And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom.  So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say it’s all nonsense.

But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.  This foolish plan of God is wiser that the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength.

Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you.  Instead, God chose things that the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise.   And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.  God chose things despised by the world, things that counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.  As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.

God has united you with Christ Jesus.  For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself.  Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin.  Therefore, as the scriptures say, ‘If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.’” (1 Corinthians 1:18-31 NLT)

… So… I may not have all the answers to all the questions that my son throws at me – but I know, God’s word holds those answers.  He knows those that are in the world and how they operate the world.  His word gives us insight and understanding – and the means to combat it.  I may not be able to remove the veil blocking people’s vision of the truth, nor can I change the heart of my own father.  But God can.  I can pray for those who are spiritually blind, for those that ‘celebrate Christmas but don’t know they’re Christian yet’.  I can pray, show love, grace and kindness and God will do the rest.  I can do my best to represent God and Jesus to those who see the message of the cross as foolishness – but I can’t do that on my own.  I am not perfect – and will most likely slip-up especially when I am tired… and I still need Jesus and the Holy Spirit to teach and guide me in all I do.  I still need God in all I do.

… In this season, we celebrate the gift and life of Jesus.  And can be reminded of God’s promises and all He has done and accomplished in giving us Jesus; and all that is connected to him.  Jesus is the best and greatest gift we could ever receive.  It is not something we can buy instore or online.  It was a gift that was freely given to us, that came at a great cost – from the giver’s perspective – and for one which I will be eternally grateful for.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your word.  Thank you for making your word flesh.  Thank you that your word is a spiritual sword and we’re able to pierce the lies of the enemy.  Thank you for giving us the best and most expensive, self-less Christmas gift – a true treasure.  Thank you for Jesus’ grace, mercy, love and teachings.  Thank you for the Holy Spirit – that we’re never alone and are guided by you and into truth.  Your love for us is immense and unconditional and our love for you comes from all of our heart, mind, body and soul.  Lord, we pray for the people of the world – for those that see the message of the cross as foolishness and for those who are spiritually blind to Jesus.  Like Saul, I pray that they may have a life altering encounter with Jesus.  Heal their blindness, enable them to see – enable them to see His greatness, your Greatness, your wonder and Glory and all the blessing you have waiting upon their lives.  Give them a story; a testimony that only you could write – being the author and finisher of their faith.  My love for you is immense and I want nothing more than others to experience what it is like to be in your light, and love.  In Jesus name I pray, amen.

‘Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.’  (Psalm 119:18 ESV)

Dear reader, may your new year, 2021 be filled with God’s grace, peace and blessings.

Until next time, God willing, W.A.R on with praise and prayer. 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Author: Elizabeth New

Copyright © 2020

All Rights Reserved.

I believe you and I believe IN you…

I believe you and I believe IN you.

There are some lyrics in a worship song that declares: I believe in you…  I believe in you – you are the God of miracles…  The God who brings the dead to life – the power of the risen one.

The lyrics – I believe in you – stuck out at me.  The song came on as I was trying to multitask – write in prayer and listen to worship music.  I was praying into something that was steeped in doubt – doubt in myself and doubting how could God possibly entrust me with something of this magnitude.  Something that I thought was too big for me… however, at the same time I could see I was being built-up for this thing bit by bit…  Now, please forgive my ambiguity – as at this stage, I do not feel comfortable, as yet, sharing this ‘thing’ that God has placed in my heart.  I had forgotten about this ‘thing’ that was placed on my heart, it came to months ago when I was still in the stages of writing out my story. But then, recently, I was reminded of this promise again.  In short, without going into details and so you can grasp onto something, I was reminded that I would be an advocate for women.  And this advocacy would be fuelled by a combination of my story, faith, and position of standing as a nurse.  These elements would merge and work in a synergy – meaning their effect would be greater together than if each element was used separately.  I strongly feel and believe faith and science can work together.  I may not have the evidence to support this, yet… but I do think it is possible…

Anyway, back to the lyrics of the song… I wanted to share this with you, as I know this isn’t just about me – as there are moments when we all become overwelmed in doubt – so I write this to encourage you too.  So, while we can declare to God – I believe in you.  I felt in this, there was a reversal – and in that moment, he was declaring to me (and now also to you) – I believe in you.  I believe in you. I believe in you – I believe in your story, your heart, your understanding of me and the world – I believe you will change the lives and hearts of many.  It won’t be without trials and tribulations – but I will be with you.  I will be with you in this.  I will be with you in this. 

I will be with you. 

I believe in you just as you believe in me. 

I believe in you just as you believe in me.

God believes and trusts us – just as we believe and trust in Him.  What we have is a two-way street – what we have through Christ is not one sided.

I was also reminded by His word to be –

Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:19).

And the Lord, He is the one who goes before you.  He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you; do not fear or be dismayed (Deuteronomy 31:8).  He is with us and He goes before us – a path is already being prepared and made.  He goes before you – meaning He is the one who leads you forward into all that you are destined for.  In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with purpose of his will…(Ephesians 1:11 NIV)

I believe in you…

I wanted to know how He believes in us – or more how God trusts us.  I went looking for answers and found – God trust or entrusts us in many ways with many things. He trusts that we will represent Him well, having made us in His image.  He trusts us with the gospel – that we will use his word wisely to spread the good news of Jesus.  He trust us in being able to perform the same works and wonders as Jesus – all to bring glory back to the Father.  Jesus says – if you ask for anything in my name and believe – it will be done.

He entrusts us with various gifts and talents that can be used to promote Jesus and give glory back to the Father.  These gifts and talents that we are blessed with are not for our benefit but for the benefit of others.

He trusts us with wealth – as everything that is good comes from God.  But our wealth is not always for us to keep.  In wealth – He is trusting us to be generous in what we have.  It is to be used to bless others as needed.  It might mean giving to the church so the church can continue to help others in need.  It may be seeing a friend in need and giving without the expectation of repayment.  It may be anonymously paying for a service in advance for someone – like at the hairdressers or paying for someone’s meal.  God is in provision and He enables and trusts us to be a means to that provision.  We are an extension of His hands and feet.

He also trusts us with our bodies – as it is a temple for the Holy Spirit.  He trusts that we will look after our bodies to our best of our abilities – through regular exercise and good nutrition and abstain from sexual activity outside of marriage.

He entrusts us with many things and so much more than what is covered above.  But the thing is, He does trust us and trusts that we will look after the things we are given and honour them to the best of our abilities – as it show’s our respect to the one who gave them to us… But sometimes, we don’t always get it right – we mess things up – we make mistakes – or we don’t do something as well as we could for whatever reason.  This does not make us a bad person, it makes us human and we won’t lose God’s love over our shortcomings – He won’t hold himself back from us. We are covered by the blood of Jesus – we are covered by His grace, mercy, and forgiveness.  God will not hold himself back from us – He already trusts us – He believes in us – just as we believe and trust in Him.  It is a two-way street – it is not one way.  We just need to trust that the Lord will lead us, steward us in how to best manage all that we have been given and entrusted with.

So now, I want to reverse this again – and declare – Lord, I believe you.  Not only do I believe IN you – I believe you.  I believe the promises you have revealed over my life.  If you say marriage will happen – I believe you. And I believe you especially when it looks impossible.  If you say I am to buy land and build a house – I believe you – and believe you especially when it looks impossible.  If you say I am meant to be an advocate for women merging faith and science – I believe you – especially when it looks impossible.  I believe you because I believe IN you – just as you believe in me. You know the plans you have for my life; plans to prosper and not harm me.  You know my heart and know what I am capable of.  You know and understand this better than I ever will – but I trust you… In this, I say, whatever the Lord has revealed to you as your promised land – declare it right now, in the name of Jesus that you believe Him.

Declare it again – I believe you.

I believe that I am the person you say I am. I believe there will be healing.  I believe there will be change.  I believe chains will be broken – strongholds will be broken.  I believe there will be peace and unity.

I believe you now and especially when it looks impossible.  You are the God of impossible and make all things possible.  You, Lord are a miracle worker – my miracle worker and my light in the darkness.

Hold this truth close to your heart and never let it go.

 

Lord God,

Thank you for believing in me – especially when I do not believe in myself at times.  Thank you for all that you have entrusted me with.  Thank you for my son, thank you for my house, thank you for growing my bank account, thank you for my body and thank you for the talents you have bestowed upone me.  And thank you for your word and Jesus.… I present all these things to you Lord – and pray in Jesus name these things may continue to grow and prosper in your name – help me to steward these things to bring you glory.  I thank you for all that has been given and received – with you, I lack nothing.  I pray you may continue to use me – as your hands and feet – to do your work, to best represent you, to give you honour and glory in Jesus name. 

I also ask for forgiveness – forgive us in those moments where we mess up – where we fall short of respecting what we have been given – we bring our mistakes to you with a heavy heart.  And again ask, in Jesus name – help me, help me to do better.  Help me to better steward what I have already been given.  I know what I am doing could be better – but I cannot do it on my own – that betterment can only come from you.  This isn’t about self-promotion and making myself look good – this is about making the most of what I have been given and making the most of what you have given me.  Help me – rid me of all my insecurities – replace it with your strength, knowledge and guide me and move me forward – reveal and show me how you want these things stewarded and managed.  Establish my steps.  I trust you. I believe you and I believe IN you.

In Jesus glorious name I pray, amen.

Amen.

 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, remember:

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV) The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps (Proverbs16:9 ESV).

God’s plan for your life – our lives, is so much greater than the plans we could possibly ever dream of or make on our own.  We can make our own plans without God on loose rocky ground  – which may cause us to fall.  Or we can do it with God, and He will establish our steps.  Meaning – the ground we walk on with Jesus is firm – yet the steps we take will leave a deep imprint.  The ground is firm yet soft and malleable – and when we stop and stand still the ground encases our feet like a warm slippers – it keeps us and allows us to stand firm in our faith.  In this stillness, it allows for growth – it sends roots down into the ground to be further established – and further established in the ways of the Lord.  The firm ground keeps us safe from falling – although we still may stumble – we will not fall like we would on loose rocky ground. He already knows the way we need to go.  All we need to do is submit our own plans and trust him; ask for guidance and he will direct and establish our steps along that path.

May God’s peace be with you today and God willing, the rest of your days. Until next time dear reader – W.A.R on with praise and prayer. Xx.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Author: Elizabeth New

Copyright © 2020

All Rights Reserved.

“Are you ready to go?” … Are you prepared?

“Are you ready to go?”…

 

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer…  therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them!  But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you!  He is filled with fury, because he knows his time is short… The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer… with the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding… the holy spirit will teach you at that time what to say. (Romans 12:12 NIV, Revelations 12:12 NIV, Proverbs 23:3 ESV, Job 12:12 KJV, Luke 12:12 NIV.)

The people of the world are hurting.  The people of the world are aching. The people of world are stirring.  Be wise – be prudent – act with care and thought for the future – seek safety – there is no need to continue to suffer.  God knows the desires of your heart. He knows the desires of your heart – stay kingdom focused and the desires of your heart will be added to you.  Be alert and prudent – the devil is full of fury as he knows his time here is short – he prowls like a lion looking for someone to devour.

Be alert – aware of your surroundings.

Be joyful in hope – patient in this affliction and faithful in prayer – stand firm in your faith. Be at the ready with the sword of truth.

Be ready to respond.

Be prepared to give a reason for the hope you have.  Do not fear what or how to say it, for the words will be given to you by the Holy spirit – his wisdom is ancient and rich in understanding.

Be ready.

Be ready to act in love.

Be ready to love – act in kindness and patience.

Be ready to give and forgive.

Be ready for change.

Change is coming.

Be ready – are you prepared?

Are you ready to go?…

…. I sat at my computer typing, my father came to my bedroom doorway – I couldn’t see him but I knew he was there.  He asked, ‘are you ready to go?’ I looked at the time – 12:38 pm.  Confused.  I knew I had no plans other than write and didn’t need to pick up my son until 3pm.  We hadn’t organised anything.  I asked: ‘go – where?’

‘Are you ready to go?’

I immediately woke up.  The voice of my father startled me awake.  It was a dream  but it was as though he was right in the room with me.

Go – where?  Am I ready to go – what does this mean?

Are you prepared?

Are you prepared for what is going to happen next?

What is going to happen next?

… ?

Are you prepared to commit to the Lord if He intercepts your plans – are you ready to go? …But are you?

He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn. But whenever he comes, he will reward the servants who are ready. (Luke 12:38 NLT)

God is asking – Are you prepared?

… Am I prepared?  At first glance and first response – I would say no, I am not prepared – I am not ready for this.  But I know this is my response to most things as I tend to act on the side of caution with everything.  I am like the living translation of prudent –  as I act with care towards my future… but I’ll also talk myself down and say, I am not ready because I don’t feel skilled enough or old enough or experienced enough.  I was then reminded of the first driving lesson I had with my father – which was in a vintage car.  I was dubious – I was like, are you sure this is ok?  A thought intercepted this query – he trusts you – he is trusting you with this – you will be fine – just trust yourself – just as he trusts you.

Are you prepared?

… At a second and deeper glance, I can see I have been prepared.  He – God has become number one priority; I have been kingdom focused in delving into his word and with prayer.  He is loved with all my heart, mind, and strength.  I have been obedient to the words and actions He has placed on my heart.  I know I am stronger in faith than I was a year ago.  I know I am stronger in faith than I was 8 weeks ago.  But I can see I could be stronger again… I can see I am prepared… I have been prepared within my means – I am ready to go.

… Father God – tell me where you are going and I will come with you – I am as ready as I will ever be – I will always say I am not ready – but I know you trust me and have given me everything I need and you will continue to equip me.

I am prepared – I am ready to go.

Lord, you have been preparing a way – preparing my heart and renewing my mind.  I pray you may further equip me to be ready – ready to respond – to act in love with kindness and patience – in a way that best represent you.  Equip me to be ready to give and forgive as you call me to do so.  I am your hands, your feet, your voice – I represent you.  I stand to represent your Son – the light of the world – I stand to represent your love and peace and stillness – in a world that is in chaotic darkness – in a world that is stirring – as the devil is full of fury and knows his time is short.

I submit myself to you, oh gracious lord – use my hands, my feet, and my voice to fulfil your will on earth.  I am yours.  I am dead to my flesh – to my wants.  I know you know the desires of my heart and you continue to meet those desires.  May your desires be planted in my heart to become my desires.  I do not know what you have in store for me next – or where you want to me to go with you – but I am ready.

I am ready to go.

I am prepared.

In Jesus name, I declare I am prepared and stand firm at the ready.  I am are suited in your armour with your shield.  I stand firm and am at the ready with your sword of truth.  In Jesus name, I declare we are ready. Amen.

Amen.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Author: Elizabeth New

Copyright © 2020

All rights reserved.

God’s timing… and timely reminder.

I looked at the time, it read 2:02pm – so I looked it up and the first thing I found was this and smiled…

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ… (Colossians 2:2)

The reason I smiled… was that I included that exact verse in a dedication in my book.  I was led to it then and knew that was my goal then… And this is my goal here too – pure and simple… and what an honour it is to be trusted with such a task.

This honour awaits you too.  This honour can be yours too.

Xx.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Author: ELizabeth New

Copyright (C) 2020

All Rights Reserved.

My lips sincerely speak what I know… (Job 33:3)

My lips sincerely speak what I know (Job 33:3)

 

(Keeping it upfront. Long post warning.)

This morning I woke to the words, ‘ensure your heart is soft.  Make sure your heart is soft and malleable.’

It kept going around my waking and light sleeping thoughts, even as I kept snoozing the alarm for ten minutes more…  I asked, ‘what does this mean?’ as I became a little more conscious.

It means, you have a heart of flesh not stone.  It means keep it soft so you can still be refined and shaped into the person you are destined to become.

It means keep your heart soft, for everything that is stored up in the heart comes out of one’s mouth.

…what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person…

… Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. …Blessed in the one who fears the lord always, whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength for my heart and my portion forever. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men… A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Delight yourself in the lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. … I will give thanks to the lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.

Above all else guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it…. Create in me a clean heart, o God, and renew a right spirit within me. I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Set a guard over my mouth, lord, keep watch over the door of my lips.  Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your (our or my) mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. … (and finally) the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts. (Matthew 15:18 ESV, James 3:13-18 ESV, Proverbs 28:14 ESV, Psalm 73:26 ESV, Colossians 3:23 ESV, Proverbs 15:13 ESV, Romans 10:10 ESV, Psalm 37:4 ESV, Psalm 9:1 ESV, Proverbs 4:23, Proverbs 4:23 ESV, Psalm 119:11, Psalm 141:3, Ephesians 4:29 NIV Phillipians 4:7)

The state of our hearts are important, just as important as the words we speak.  Words serve a function to enable us to communicate ideas, feelings and needs.  The words we speak can have two effects, and share common trait; power.  Words have the power to destroy and tear others down.  Words have power.  They can be like poison, destroy others; crush their spirit, slowly and painfully.  This poison comes from the brokenness; bitterness or jealousy stored up in hardened stony heart. Or from a place of unforgiveness or selfish ambition.

If words have power, they can also be used for good.  They can be used to speak life into a situation.  Speak life into dry bones.  They can speak life in to healing.  They can break strongholds.  They hold power and authority.  They can build-up and encourage others, enabling the person to be the best version of themselves.

This is a reminder that we need to guard our hearts; protect it from becoming hardened.  This means, knowing the current condition of your heart; forgiving those that have wronged you, keep your focus on the Lord and all that you have been given from him – find your joy in the Lord.  In all you do, work heartily, as for the lord and not for men.  For it is difficult to please mankind as mankind is prone to failure and disappointment, we operate from a deficit and whatever we do will never be enough or be able to fully please mankind.  But working for the Lord, our efforts are always enough, our efforts are always seen.

This is a reminder to forgive, forgive, forgive, for it will help to keep your heart pure.

Forgive.

Fill your heart with the love of God.  Fill your heart with the word, truth, and teachings of Jesus.  Fill your heart and mind with the love and knowledge of God…

…Ok… here is a vulnerable moment for you.  I asked, what does this mean to me, on a personal level?  How does this connect to me, why should you tell me I need to ensure my heart is soft?  I know this is not just something you want me to write and pass on, so how does this connect to me? The understanding I was given, was about keeping my intentions pure.  He said, you are doing all of this writing and sharing, what and who are you writing for?  Are you writing for the praise of man-kind – for the ‘likes’ and for the ‘following’?  or are you doing it from a place of authenticity?

… I felt a strong tug on my heart and admitted I felt disheartened when some posts get ‘one like’ or ‘none’. (But that does not mean they’re not read either…) … and then I feel tempted to give up… but…  I dug further, questioned why and acknowledged – ‘well clearly, I want to be validated – I want to know that what I am writing is reaching others and touching them… but where is that coming from?’  I knew, there must be something more to it…  I was reminded of all the other times I fought to be seen, heard and noticed.  Like the time I studied film, I was one of three women in male dominated class.  I worked just as hard my male counterparts – I gave everything I had to tell interesting and creative stories… but… I never got the validation or recognition that I wanted… again, I asked why?  Where did this all this fight come from?    Simply, it came from a backlash of constant rejection which made me want to fight harder – to say, I do have something special going on… it was all to prove myself… It occurred to me; this could be a form of selfish ambition; the want to prove oneself…

But what happened then?

I lost my authenticity; I lost my own purity – the ka-ching-bazinga thing that makes me – me.  More than that, it means the wisdom I may be given when it comes from a place of selfish ambition may not come from God, it is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic…

Yeowzers.  How is that for a conviction?

Yes, that was it.

But… Does that mean, that all the words I had written previously are meaningless?

No, because this brokenness, this fight for validation had not surfaced yet.

The Lord was correcting this issue before it became a full-blown issue.  He knew of the brokenness and how I had reacted in the past and was correcting it, so I could continue to honour the words He presses into my heart, enabling me to deliver them from a place of authenticity.

That is how our God works!!  That – right there is an example of His work in progress.  He is so amazing – He never ceases to amaze me.

This was my daily reminder that I already have a heart of flesh, not stone.  And I need to ensure I keep it soft and malleable.  I can see now, had I kept going down the path of wanting/seeking validation, my heart may have slowly hardened, and the given words would not have come from God or would have stopped.  Out of His love, He brought about this correction, but He did it ever so gently… but also in a ‘in your face kinda way – like you can’t miss this thing!!’ … This also made me realise, even more now, that I work for the lord, not for mankind – all the validation that I need comes from the Lord.

I know the truth He sets in my heart; I know the words He has given me.

My job is simple, to listen and respond through writing – whether I get one view or not, it doesn’t matter – because I know that I am honouring the words that the Lord has pressed into my heart.  And in that, I know that these and subsequent words will reach the people it needs to reach by the grace and hand of God.  I also know this, as I came across a ‘new’ woman of god on YouTube; Lana Vawser, who speaks such strong and inspiring words.  She was new to me but has been around for a while as indicated by the number of subscribers and views per video.   I also noticed, well, it became evident to me that she operated from a place of authenticity; in being able to listen and respond to the words God placed on her heart.  I could genuinely see she wasn’t in it for the ‘show’ or the ‘likes’ but it was to honour the words God had given her and continued to flow through her.  I was surprised and not, at the same time, that I had only just come across this strong woman of God.  But then, I know that God was revealing her to me – that He is the one who delivers and reveals words to the people that need it.  And perhaps, the reason she was revealed to me was that I recognised her authenticity in myself – to be reminded it’s not about the ‘show’ or the ‘likes’, it is about the authenticity, connection to God and being obedient to his word and promptings.

Having said that, there have been moments, as I have been writing these words where people; some who I haven’t thought about in a long time were dropped into my mind – and I knew I needed to send them that word.  And I did… whether they read it or not, doesn’t matter as such – as the old saying goes, you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make them drink.  But – the most important action here, is honouring and being obedient to God’s word or promptings.

In all honesty, writing these words, it is the least I can do – God does so much for me every day and I feel so in-debt to Him as it is.  I don’t think I could ever repay God for all that He has done and will continue to do for me.  And I know it’s not expected either… but, this – it is the least I could do – but it is not the most I can do.  I could probably do more but I won’t until it is revealed to me as to what is next… and for now, I know this is what I am called to do – so I will honour and treasure the words I am given and write and release them as intended.

____________

… Also… I forgive those who I felt rejected by in my past, that made me fight to prove myself. I know now that it was not my time.  God had other plans for me.  I do not need to fight to prove myself.

Those days are over.

Those days are behind me, they are in the past.

They are done.

Finished.

I am not the same person I was.

I do not react in brokenness.

For my heart is healed and whole.

I am already proven.

I am already chosen.

I am already worthy.

I am already validated.

My heart is pure.

My heart is soft.

And this is my authenticity.

I will keep on honouring the words that the Lord presses into my heart.  I will guard and keep my heart pure, soft, and malleable so I may continue to be refined into the woman; the person I am destined to be.

And know, dear reader that these words are also for you – you are proven, chosen, worthy, validated, and pure in heart.  You do not need to fight to prove yourself anymore.

 

Lord,

I pray that you may guard our hearts – keep our hearts pure – and guard our mouths, so when we speak, we speak with power – power that speaks life into dead situations; that uplifts and encourages and corrects.  May you guard our hearts, so you may speak life into our hearts, and we may be able to re-lay that message to others, keeping its purity and intention.  Remove our brokenness and replace it with wholeness.

We love you and thank you for this new day and all that has been given to us.  We thank you for your presence; for you are close to those that are broken-hearted – and I know you are forever close to me.  I know you are constantly healing parts of my heart to make it whole again. You are constantly renewing, turning stone to flesh and preventing flesh from turning to stone.  We thank you and are so grateful for your continuous grace and unconditional love.  You are worthy of all the praise – and the highest of highest praise.

Guard our hearts, guard our mouths.  In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, amen.

Amen.

 

My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know…(Job 33:3) and … listen to me; be silent, and I will teach you wisdom… (Job 33:33)

 

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Author: Elizabeth New

Copyright © 2020

All Rights Reserved.

 

Arise and Go

(I wrote this a couple of months ago, it is a chapter in my manuscript.  I re-read the chapter and found it ministered straight to my heart and into my current situation.  I may have laughed at the timing, and at the fact I wrote it and it still minister’s to me.  Clearly, it was led by the Holy Spirit.   I don’t know who needs this but I felt it needed to be shared. I don’t know what your situation is – but it may add some clarity.)

 

Act 3 –

(Saul of Tarsus becomes) Paul

Chapter Twenty-two

…But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop…

 

Saul had a life changing encounter with Jesus; one that changed the trajectory of his life.  He thought he was in his purpose, but he was not in line with God’s purpose because he did not recognise Jesus.

The scriptures say, Saul was made blind by an encounter with Jesus.  He was sent to Damascus and told to wait.  He was blind for three days and during that time he didn’t eat or drink.  What the scriptures do not say, is that he was not only physically blind, but he had been spiritually blind to Jesus all his life. He needed to become physically blind, to have his eyes spiritually and physically re-opened to the truth of Jesus.

He was blind for three days – to him, it would have felt like a lifetime.  It would have felt like a lifetime of sitting in darkness.  He would have felt so vulnerable like as though he’d been stripped bare and was wondering through the wilderness naked – not being able to see anything that lurked in the darkness waiting to take him.  His senses would have been heightened – heightened sense of fear, hypervigilant hearing and sensitive to touch and sound.  He would have been scared and thinking – this is it – this is it – life, as I know it, is over for me.

What he didn’t know – the thing that he was blind to, was that Jesus had plans for him.  It is written in The Passion Translation, that the Lord appears to Ananias in a vision.  He gives him exact instructions, to go to this street called Abundance and find a man, Saul of Tarsus at Judah’s house.  He continued to say, while he (Saul) was in prayer, he had a supernatural vision of Ananias laying hands on him and restoring his sight. This alone, would have been an incredible experience for Saul, going from dark formless vision to suddenly being able to see – with supernatural vision.  It wasn’t just a vision but it was supernatural.  It had became supernatural because he was without sight.  He could suddenly see the room that he was in, the exact location that he was sitting, he could see the floor beneath him and the textures in the floor.  He could see his nose in front of his face again, sending him cross-eyed.  He could see his hands in front of him, the detail in his nails; the almost invisible lines of nail fibres and he silently rejoiced that he could see the dirt under his nails.  It became supernatural because he could see everything in great detail.  He wasn’t just given a supernatural vision; he was given foresight.  Saul was given the ability to see that this was in fact not it, it was not over, and he was going to be healed.  He was given foresight that he was going to be healed.  That also made it a supernatural experience for him because he was given foresight into his future and it left no room to doubt.

However, Jesus did not reveal everything to him straight away.  He knew that Saul was only capable of receiving bits at a time.  He wasn’t ready to be shown all that He had planned – because if he had, he most likely would have freaked out and said – nope – I’m not doing that, I can’t do that.  In our own weaknesses, we will devalue ourselves and say we can’t do something.  When in fact, we can do the task we’re presented with.  Jesus knows our capabilities more than we do and he will provide direct instructions on where to go and who to contact, what to say et cetera.

Jesus gave Ananias direct instructions, Ananias protested. In a way, he said this but not, (it would have been his subtext;) his thoughts behind his actual words – but he’s Saul of Tarus – he’s a man to fear – he’s dangerous and he’ll surely persecute me too.  Jesus says, simply –

Arise and go! (Subtext: I won’t hear any more of it. I have plans.)  I have chosen this man to be my special messenger. He will be brought before kings, before many nations, and before the Jewish people to give them the revelation of who I am.  And I will show him how much he is destined to suffer because of his passion for me. (TPT Acts 15:16)

Arise and go – He only needed to say it once – that is how much authority Jesus has and Ananias was obedient although he was fearful of what might become of him.  Jesus didn’t say it, but He knew he would be ok and kept safe.  Jesus knew Saul was physically blind and vulnerable like a new baby, therefore he would be more fearful of Ananias than he was of Saul.  So, Jesus knew he would be kept safe.

Arise and go – Jesus may say this to us and like Ananias we may be filled with fear and have the echo of the serpent in our ears – did God really say that?  I know, I did when I first started writing this book.  I didn’t know what kind of content was going to be in it, all I knew was that there were three acts Leah, Saul and Paul.  I knew it meant delving into my past, but I didn’t know what that included until I was told to look into old journal entries.  I was in fact filled with fear – I thought – I don’t want my close friends and family to be all up in my business – I don’t want them to know I smoked and drank and was promiscuous at times.  A thought intercepted those thoughts –

If that is the only thing that is going to stop, you from writing this… then that’s selfish… it’s a small thing because it isn’t about you anymore – they need to know these things for context because it is what you have been brought out of.  And how many other people are there in the world that this is going to relate to and speak to?  It’s not about you anymore.  It needs to be written. It will be written. Arise and go.

I was filled with fear, but I have been given all the instructions and words to include in this book as I write.  So, I know, I am not doing this out of my own will.  If I am honest, most of the content within these pages, I had no intention on discussing – so I know I am not in this – not as me – it is led by the spirit – the spirit of truth.

So, I’m saying I understand Ananias’ fear in going on this mission initiated by Jesus.  But can see that there is no need for fear, for I will be protected.  Jesus has a plan and a part of that plan is being his messenger to spread His word and truth.

Now, before I continue, I want to establish that because I am aware that He has chosen me to be a messenger; His messenger.  It does not mean that I am better or higher than anyone else. If you believe in Jesus, we all have the capacity to be his messenger and to represent Him – it’s not an exclusive club or anything – if anything it aims to be inclusive.  He’ll use you as a shepherd to seek out and reach the dear sheep that have gone astray – the ones that have wandered into their own path or down the path of darkness.

If you were a drug addict, He’ll use it.

If you were a convicted criminal seeking the root of all evil – money, He’ll use it.

If you experienced discrimination for your race, colour, gender or sexual orientation – He’ll use it.

If you wanted to be an actor/writer and fought to be seen and loved and became a single parent – He’ll use it.

Jesus does not discriminate, the world will but He will not.  He will use whatever your story is to reach the people it needs to reach, to change the lives, hearts and thinking of those who need it most.  It is not an exclusive thing, it is an all-inclusive thing because Jesus does not discriminate.   The world may disqualify you – you may be too skilled for a job or under-qualified and they cannot see your worth and what you have to offer because you potentially do not tick a set of boxes.  But, Jesus qualifies you – as you are, in all your glorious brokenness and imperfection.  He says, your beautiful and I know how I am going to turn this around…  and He will turn it around, you just need to believe and have faith… and the story that you’ll be given, it will point back to the glory and goodness of our God.

So, my dears – I say, if Jesus has given you a mission – arise and go.  Do not fear the road ahead because you will be protected.  If you have not been given a clear mission, like Saul, I say wait – stand firm in where you are and wait for further instructions.  Pray and maybe you will be given a vision; foresight on what is about to happen or where you need to go.  We don’t need to take things into our own hands all the time, as tempting as that may be.  We don’t need to take things into our own hands because it is not happening in our time and we need that thing immediately.  Be still, stand firm and trust with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding… If you’ve been given a mission – arise and go.  If not – wait until you have been given that command.

 

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Dear Reader, I feel this time is about stepping into God’s purpose and the plans he has assigned to our lives.  It may be that he has revealed elements of His plan to you in the past, and now, it is either a time for action or it is a time to wait.  For each person, it won’t be the same.    As for me, I know it is time to arise and go.

Father, thank you for this word and reminder.  Thank you for your grace and the knowledge that rests in our hearts – that you are in control and you have a plan for our lives.  We pray that our eyes may be opened to you; that we may recieve foresight into your plans – enough to know – this is not our lot – that there is more to our lives – whatever situations we may find ourselves in now – this is not where our story ends.  You are our joy, you are our light when our situations look dark – you are the one that has mapped out our path and lives.  We love you and thank you for all that we have.  We know and acknowledge that everything that is good and lovely comes from you.  In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, amen.

Amen.

Until next time, God willing,  w.a.r on with praise and prayer. Xx

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Author: Elizabeth New

Copyright (C) 2020

All Rights Reserved.

Thank you for saving us!

Thank you for Saving us.

2^nd May 2020

 

Thank you for saving us. 

Thank you for saving us from the lion in the lion’s pit.

Thank you for saving us from the prowling lion looking for something to devour. 

Thank you for saving us.

 

I woke up with these words circulating the forefront of my thoughts this morning.

These thoughts were planted in my mind while sleeping and by the hand of God.

 

Thank you for saving us from the prowling lion and the lion’s den.

Thank you for saving us.

 

In these words, the Holy Spirit reminded me of Daniel who was thrown into the lion’s den.  In short, Daniel was an administrator; an overseer of the satraps who served to protect King Darius’ possessions.  Daniel was loyal to his job and he grew in his reputation as he, ‘distinguished himself among the administrators and this pleased King Darius.’  He then wanted to promote him to protecting the whole kingdom.  This did not sit well with the other satraps.  They were perhaps overruled by the desires of mankind; perhaps ruled by jealousy and not wanting Daniel to succeed and be promoted.  So, they devised a plan, knowing Daniel’s faith and obedience to prayer.  Their objective was to ruin Daniel so he may not succeed in being promoted.   They made an edict and enforced ‘the decree that anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next thirty days, except to you, Your Majesty, shall be thrown into the lions’ den,’ and so it was written, so it could not be changed.   Daniel knew the law; and despite putting his own life in danger he continued to pray 3 times per day.  So, he was supposedly disobeying the king’s the law; yet remained obedient to his faith, and faithful to God. The plan devised by these men was intended to overthrow Daniel and prevent God’s plans of promotion from coming into fruition.

This is what Daniel 6:16-28 (NIV) says:

So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!”

A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that Daniel’s situation might not be changed.  Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night without eating and without any entertainment being brought to him. And he could not sleep.

 At the first light of dawn, the king got up and hurried to the lions’ den.  When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?”

 Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.”

The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.

At the king’s command, the men who had falsely accused Daniel were brought in and thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. And before they reached the floor of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones.

Then King Darius wrote to all the nations and peoples of every language in all the earth:

 

“May you prosper greatly!

 

“I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel.

 

“For he is the living God

and he endures forever;

his kingdom will not be destroyed,

his dominion will never end.

He rescues and he saves;

he performs signs and wonders

in the heavens and on the earth.

He has rescued Daniel

from the power of the lions.”

 

So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.

(Daniel 6:16-28 NIV)

 

… I was also reminded of this:

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings (1 Peter 5:8-9).

 

The thing that stands out to me first and foremost is that Daniel continued in his faith; to serve God and pray – even when the world at that time told him not to.  He allegiance was to God first.  It was from this that he was blessed; spared and rescued as he said: ‘my God sent his angel who shut the mouths of lions – they did not hurt me.’  He was loyal to God and loyal to the king – he was innocent in both his ways.  While Daniel was in the lion’s den, it doesn’t say in the passage, however, based on the context of his faith described, he may have remembered and known that God is his refuge, his strength and an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore, he did not fear, though the earth may have given way and the mountains fell into the heart of the sea (see Psalm 41:1-2 NIV); and fallen into the heart of the lion’s den.   He was alert to his surroundings and the impending danger.  He was of sober mind; meaning he was able to make sensible and serious decisions.  It this passage of scripture it doesn’t say this, but he may have prayed more during this time and lent into his knowledge of God.  It said, no wound was found on him because he trusted in God.  No wounds, are the physical evidence and result of his faith in trusting God.  Daniel was firmly planted in the knowledge of who God is and furthermore he came to know He is – a rescuer; one who protects and saves.  And he lived to have this tale re-told and declared to all the nations, in all languages.

In contrast to Daniel, the men; their wives and children, who falsely accused were thrown into the lions den as punishment by the king.  The lions overpowered them and crushed their bones.  They were devoured by the roaring prowling lion; devoured by sin; false accusations and lies – the consequences of their actions resulted in instant death – before reaching the floor of the den.  It could be said, their alliance rested with the devil as he is the father of lies (see John 8:44) and they wanted to crush the spirit of God in Daniel.  But even then, the work of the enemy was overthrown.  Daniel could not be crushed – nor could the spirit of God be crushed at this time.  The enemy and his lies were overcome – they were crushed by the lion which was God – in that moment.

The action of Daniel being saved, caused the king to make a declaration by what he saw and heard.  He declared that: god is living, he endures forever, his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end.  He rescues and saves, he performs signs and wonders in heaven and on earth.  He rescued Daniel from the lion; from death that is the result of sin.  However, in the eyes of God and man he was already innocent, but more than anything – in that moment, he was saved from death by his faith.

So, as a result of his firm and constant faith and obedience to both God and the king on earth – God prospered him.  To be prospered means, he was made successful, made to flourish physically; made to grow strong and healthy. This prosperity happened during the reign of Darius and Cyrus of Persia; each reigned for about 30 years – so potentially his prosperity lasted over 50 years – depending on where this moment happened in King Darius’ reign.  It can also be seen that it was God’s plan from the beginning to prosper Daniel, as seen by King Darius in wanting to promote him.  This plan was diverged by men of the world; by the enemy who plotted and schemed his demise; his death.  God’s power was made stronger by Daniel’s faith, it overpowered these manmade plans and schemes.  It killed the enemies plans for destruction and enabled God’s plan to continue, by rescuing Daniel and allowing him to prosper.

I feel, this all serves as a wonderful reminder of standing firm in faith when the world shakes.  A reminder to trust in God; to trust his plan for your life and when this battle comes to pass (whatever battle you are in), you will be able to stand and confess that God sent his angel and closed the mouths of lions and saved you from being devoured – and you will exit the den without any wounds.  And you will be enabled to continue to prosper in God’s plans.

How wonderful this is.

How wonderful and great our God is.

Thank you for saving us; for rescuing us, for protecting us and ensuring we leave situations un-harmed.

Thank you for saving us.

Thank you for saving Daniel from the lion’s den.  Thank you from all who have been saved, from those that are yet to be saved and that will be saved.  This is a collective past, present and future thank you for saving us.

Thank you for saving us.

Amen.

 

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Until next time, God willing – w.a.r on with praise and prayer. Xx.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Author: Elizabeth New

Copyright © 2020

All Rights Reserved.