by Joseph | May 20, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
Every day it seems more-and-more people are concerned and are beginning to prepare. Some are not quite sure what they are preparing for, but I hear most say they are preparing for disaster.
I heard a preparation call more than 30 years ago. At the time, I didn’t quite understand what it meant to “prepare”, but I tried to just step on Faith. As it turns out, what I assumed was preparation is far more intense than I ever imagined.
The urgency and importance of preparation has never been more critical. As I hear comments from US Government leaders and see the direction we are headed as a Country, I realize that we are racing toward difficulties and disasters that we have never encountered before. The arrogance and audacity of hope founded on intellectual ascent may soon unleash peril upon us – if there is not repentance.
The stunning developments that are now unfolding impress upon me the urgent need for people to prepare. I believe there is an increasing intensity coming that will shake the foundations, especially if our leaders abandon Israel.
On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves. New International Version
Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem. Prepare, because the day of the Lord is upon us.
by Joseph | May 19, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
As we continue with the assignment of sharing the need for preparation, it seems we are now joined by the US Government in proclaiming the need to prepare for the Last Days Apocalypse.
In fact, in a recent and popular post on the Center for Disease Control site there was a somewhat disturbing article entitled “Preparedness -101: Zombie Apocalypse“.
Do you think the US Government knows something they are not fully disclosing to a sheepish public? Well of course they do.
I am quite sure the title of this recent article was carefully chosen to create attention and interest from a generation that seems to be strangely fascinated with the horror element and the spread of death through viral interactions. I certainly understand the desire for the Center for Disease Control to market their message of preparedness and certainly recognize the need to alert people of the need to prepare for difficult events.
However… as I read the article on the CDC website it does not really impact me as simply an attention-grabbing horror show fantasy. The fact is, the Bible has already disclosed the events that will unfold and has given us warning that we should be prepared for such events. Why are we now so surprised that even secular Governments are beginning to recognize the times that we live?
In the Book of Revelation we read:
And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. Rev. 6:8
I believe it is quite ironic that the US Government CDC website used a viral death plague as an apocalyptic description. The CDC urges us to get prepared because such a scenario is not out of the question. The fact is, the Bible has already given us this warning.
Governments regularly shout the message to their people to get prepared for earthquakes, famines, flood, disease, unusual weather events, and terrorism. We regularly hear of wars and rumors of wars, and even receive warning of impending disasters in the heavens (increasing solar flares, meteors, comets, etc). (more…)
by Joseph | May 13, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
As God pours out in these Last Days, it becomes incredibly important that we draw closer to Him. We need to listen carefully to what He is saying to us during this hour, and certainly immediately act upon His words. He is now shouting from the Heavens.
I firmly believe we are entering a time of increasing intensity. Events all over the world will seem magnified to a much higher degree and masses of people will be fearful and confused. They will seek answers and many will be led astray by the “experts” who will attempt to explain the events as a physical phenomenon.
Even personal emotions will become increasingly intense. As the foundations of the earth are shaken, so too will the foundations of our person be shaken. We are being prepared. I believe that which is at our core – fears, anger, frustrations- will begin to see increasing intensity. We will even see intensity in our relationships.
There is going to be turbulence in the world, and there is going to be increasing turbulence within the hearts of people. The preparation process is more than gaining a simple understanding, or perhaps following a task list. For me, the Preparation Call is less about stocking supplies, and more about surrendering to the reality that God is our refuge and strength.
As we are faced with the difficulties, it is vital that we turn to the One who loves us in a way that goes beyond definition. His love is deeper than our knowledge of personal comforts or intense pleasures. His love goes beyond the temporal issues we see in time and extends into eternity.
When turmoil comes, it is important to find a restful place that is quiet and peaceful, but more than that, a place where you can experience the presence of God. He wants a relationship with us, and wants us to rest in Him.
This is my resting place forever.” (Psalms 132:14)
According to Psalm 132:14, God has established resting places, literal places that are His resting places. God is calling each of us to find a quiet place, a resting place where we can get alone to spend time with Him. As you prepare, make sure to find a time to Rest in Him.
In the story of Noah, when the world was destroyed by the flood, the first thing Noah did was send a dove out to find a place to rest.
“Then he (Noah) sent forth a dove to see if the waters had decreased from the surface of the ground. But the dove found no resting place on which to roost, and she returned to him to the ark, for the waters were yet on the face of the whole land. So he put forth his hand and drew her to him into the ark” (Genesis 8:8-9).
Noah represents God, and the Ark represents the safety of the presence of God. Only when you enter into His presence will you find that place of peace and rest.
Trust Him to lead you to His resting place.
by Joseph | May 8, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
I am convinced that there is going to be an increasing intensity of difficulties that we must face. As times get more difficult and events become more intense, it is increasingly important that we prepare ourselves mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
In the last several years of my life, it seems that I have been (and continue to be) led through a “purging process”. This process has been painful, especially as I tried to hold onto many things that I had accumulated along the journey. Now I realize, the purging is helping to lighten the load I am carrying so that I can better maneuver during the times ahead.
One of the areas that has been impressed upon me to purge, is the emotional baggage that has often been a weighty distraction. Hurts from broken or failed relationships, insecurities, and guilt from personal failures have all been obstacles to my movement forward. I have spent far too much time struggling under heavy emotional burdens that are completely unnecessary and are hindering me from being tightly focused on preparation for the path ahead.
Preparation is not as easy as I once imagined. Certainly, it can be easy to put a few things in storage and to learn some new skills, but the more difficult part of the journey is the process of transitioning. Habits that have been accumulated and comforts that have become a part of life – are now being altered. It is a necessity, because the journey ahead will not allow for the status quo.
Some of the greatest challenges that I am facing in my preparation call, occurs because my family circumstances are changing and we are forced to deal with discomforts. It has been difficult, but also quite enlightening as I realize the training is a valuable part of the preparation process. I welcome the training now, so that we can be firm when things around us may be wavering.
Tragically, too often family relationships are altered or broken simply because individuals could not handle transitions that emerged suddenly. For example, a lost income may force multiple changes in a lifestyle which may result in friction, anger, and blame – that ultimately impacts a relationship. If the relationship has been built on certain comforts or perhaps expectations, a sudden change in circumstances may unfortunately bring disharmony. Conversely, relationships that are God-anchored and nurtured on unconditional love can withstand difficult changes.
It is vital in the preparation process that individuals strengthen the foundation of their relationships and begin the process of growth through transitions. If we fail to purge ourselves of some emotional baggage now, when stressful times appear – we will not be adequately prepared to weather the storm. We need to quit looking back, quit feeling entitled to certain comforts, quit expecting others to supply our needs, and begin preparing for the beautiful journey ahead. Ask God to begin preparing you for the times ahead and rest assured… He will prepare you.
But be warned…from my experience, preparation will not look like what you expect.
by Joseph | May 5, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
Right now, people all over the world are beginning to sense the need for preparation. I’ve talked to many who do not know exactly “why” they are needing to prepare, but they just believe something is coming – and they need to get ready.
When I first heard a call to prepare, it was hardly commonplace to hear anyone speak of preparing. In fact, if you talked too extensively about preparation you were considered an “alarmist”. You may have even been shunned and outcast as some type of radical conspirator.
Today, preparation is a fast-growing discussion. So much so that a lot of people now consider it a fast-growing “movement”. Preparing has also become a vibrant marketing niche!
While I am certainly delighted to see more and more of the population sensing a “Preparation Call” and taking action, I do have some personal concerns with what I’m seeing in this new fast-growing “movement”. Now, I will admit that I do see the Preparation process as much more of a Godly calling than most people do. I personally can not separate the spiritual realities from the day-to-day preparation actions. In fact, in my journey the day-to-day and month-to-month actions are a direct result of what I believe God is assigning for us to do.
So with that, please understand that my views are completely intertwined with what I believe is the ultimate Spiritual reality. While we are in preparations for whatever difficulties that may be ahead, the more important aspect of preparation is the soon return of the Messiah.
My concerns now involves the trend that I see emerging. The “Preppers Movement” is now becoming quite a growing marketing niche. Businesses and entrepreneurs will attempt to dictate the direction of the niche, by clever sales and marketing tactics that are designed to induce spending and profits. While I am not at all opposed to Free Enterprise, I do take issue with the cheap imitation of purpose that often emerges as a result of financial greed.
So, my warning is: Preppers Beware! Preparation is not supposed to be a carefully designed marketing trend to increase profits. Be careful as you engage in the process of preparation. Understand the purpose behind your actions, and do not be driven by a crafty sales-pitch designed to entice your action to purchase. There are no short-cuts in preparing, and you simply can’t make a quick purchase and be done. Preparation is a process. A journey that takes us through the winding path of personal change. It may be a difficult path, so buckle-up, pray without ceasing, and be prepared for where God will lead you.
by Joseph | Apr 30, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
The Shaking
Whose voice then shook the earth (continuation)
Shared by Jeff Rowland.
We shared last time a beautiful scripture from Psalms – Psalms 29.
This Psalm of David is a beautiful description of the majesty and power of God in a storm of thunder. David’s perspective of viewing this storm was to acknowledge and ascribe the power of this storm to the voice of God. The Psalmist has already given acknowledgement to the God of thunder earlier in his writing. (Psa 18:13)
The LORD also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave his voice; hail stones and coals of fire. From the voice of God comes the power of the storm. When the thunder comes there is always the sound of accompanying rain.
(Jer 10:13) When he uttereth his voice, there is a multitude of waters in the heavens, and he causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings with rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of his treasures.
Should we not listen to the voice of God in the middle of the storm? Should we not give honor and glory which is due to His name when we experience the storm?
(Job 37:4) After it a voice roareth: he thundereth with the voice of his excellency; and he will not stay them when his voice is heard.
God will not deceive by His voice, for when He hath spoken then will men hear what He is saying clearly. The Psalmist David is saying in this Psalm that the powerful and majestic God thunders with his voice and breaks the great cedars of Lebanon. Trees that can grow to be bigger than any other can be broken like twigs at the voice of our great God.
Paul the apostle said to the Church of Corinth,
(1Co 2:4) And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.
When Gods people begin to thunder with our voice under the anointing of the Spirit of God then we can begin to uproot those things in our lives that holds us back from the awesome glory and majesty of our great God. James and John was called the sons of thunder indicating their voice of the gospel was heard clearly under the anointing of Christ Jesus. Oh how our voice needs to be raised in these days to clearly speak forth what God is uttering from heaven. (more…)
by Joseph | Apr 29, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
As I have shared often I believe there is an increasing urgency to get prepared. With every passing day I am more convinced with the increasingly intense need to prepare – and every day my family is busy with preparing.
The comments that will be expressed here will seem to be somewhat contradictory. I assure you there is not a contradiction, but the confusion will lie in the interpretation.
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of speaking with two of my dearest friends – specifically about the topic of preparation. I hear from people all the time about their concerns and even fears with things that are going on, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to get a perspective from two people I know have a strong faith in God.
Their responses were very interesting, and were really a confirmation with what God has impressed to me. The more interesting part for me is that the opinions they expressed, appear to be opposite answers to the same question. The reality is, the answers were both consistent with what God has shown me about the need to prepare.
There is no question about the need to prepare for things that are ahead. In fact, I believe there are significant challenges ahead for the USA that will cause great grief for those who are not adequately prepared. One of my friends shared a warning (that God had impressed on him) about a coming drought and violent hurricanes that are ahead. He obviously believes people need to prepare, and wanted my help in sharing the warning.
His warning was a confirmation of what Yah had impressed to me. I also believe there are going to be turbulent times that will shake the earth. Floods, mudslides, drought and quakes will impact lives, and cause chaos and suffering. We must be prepared.
When I asked the other friend for his opinion about the times, he simply said “Rest in Him, and do not focus too much on turmoil and chaos the are coming”.
While this seems to be a contradiction to the message of preparation, it really is not. In fact, from what Yah has shown me – this IS the essence of the preparation call. Our focus should be on He who calms the storm, and less emphasis on the boat that is being tossed in the wind.
Our Messiah said…
“Martha, Martha, you worry and fret about so many things and yet few are needed, indeed only one. It is Mary who has chosen the better part and it shall not be taken from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)
Right now, it is important to prepare your cupboards and store provisions – especially if drought is coming. The need to prepare and store food, water and provisions is obvious – and is not an alarmist reaction. It is being prudent to the warnings.
BUT… the more important part of preparation, is to Prepare as the Bride. Spend time at the feet of the Messiah and feast on His provision. Draw closer to Him and rest in His peace. Let your preparations be guided in Faith – and the knowledge that God is in control, and not you.
by Joseph | Apr 28, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
The Shaking
Whose voice then shook the earth
Shared by Jeff Rowland.
The power of the voice of God is unmatched by anything the earth has ever seen or come in contact with. One word from the lips of God can destroy with more devastation than any bomb ever created. One word from the lips of God can breathe life into anything or anyone.
(1Ki 19:12) And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
Even though our God’s voice is so powerful, He can speak with such still softness as to gently urge the hearts of all who will listen. Could it be that the gentleness of our God is often why we so disregard and refuse Him that speaks? Could it be that our God is speaking louder so as to get our attention to the times we are living in now?
I believe that we are now living in the middle of Hebrews 12:25-29. I also believe that God is speaking to the earth and its time that we begin to pay attention. There is always purpose and reason to the voice of God being released.
Verse 26 says, “Whose voice then shook the earth.” We need to consider the events that are taking place now at such a rapid rate of speed. The earthquakes that are ravaging the earth all over must be given heed to. Jesus foretold of things to come as a sign of the end of the age in Matthew 24.
(Mat 24:7) For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
This was the response of Jesus after being asked the question what is the sign of thy coming and of the end of the world? We are now seeing these signs. Even a casual student of the Word of God can see these things are upon us.
(more…)
by Joseph | Apr 26, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
See that ye refuse not him that speaketh!
Shared by Jeff Rowland.
I have been preaching now for 27 years. I have Pastored churches for over 20 years, and there is urgency growing in my spirit like never before. The things I’m going to share with you have captivated my heart in such an unusual way that I feel like purpose is surging through me to get some information out to as many people as I possibly can. I do believe that for such a time as this, this message is to be proclaimed.
With the recent earthquakes in Japan and in other parts of the world my mind began to go to a passage of scripture and has swallowed up my entire being. I understand that earthquakes have been happening since the dawn of time. However, Jesus told us how that earthquakes would be a sign of His soon return and that always triggers something in people when a sign in the bible is being fulfilled before their very eyes. I had the same response when I read this passage that I have read many times before, but now it seemed like I was reading it for the very first time.
Heb 12:25-29 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire.
From a literal standpoint we must always be reminded of what the book of Hebrews is about. This book in the bible is teaching us how much better the new covenant is to the old covenant. It teaches us how much better Jesus is to the angels or to Moses. These things and many more things must be kept in our mind in looking at this or any other text in this book. The comparison is being drawn here between Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. In the Spirit I have to say that I’m convinced that this passage represents exactly where we are in God’s time.
The writer begins by saying, “See that ye refuse not him that speaketh.” This warning is critical and is also an indictment against the church today. It reminds me of the writings to the seven churches of Revelation and the end of each discourse to them; “he that hath an ear let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
I don’t remember a time when people’s response to the word of God has been so relaxed. It’s as if the Word of God no longer carries any real meaning or power in people’s lives. One could almost draw the conclusion that no one really believes what the bible is saying. We may agree with it in word but if we don’t allow it to motivate us to action then I’m not sure if we really believe it from our heart? (more…)
by Joseph | Apr 25, 2011 | Preparation, Sharing
My wife and I are blessed with three beautiful children. My youngest is about to be 21 years old.
I had the incredible joy of experiencing the birth of each of my kids, and welcoming them into their family. I was with my wife at every moment during the labor.
We often joke about the moments of labor, and how I tried to comfort my wife during the contractions. It was certainly a painful experience for my precious wife, but also a beautiful time in our lives. Most parents can relate to the difficulties of the birth process and the incredible joy that followed.
There is a growing intensity in everything right now. To me, it is a reminder of the labor pains that we went through as our beautiful children were preparing to join our family. They started with minor discomforts, and intensified quickly – as the time of their arrival drew near.
Our Messiah shares that during the last days we will experience difficulties, and then related them to the pangs of labor. Obviously, I believe that means we will see increasing intensity as we draw nearer to His return.
“For nation will rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will also be famines. These things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” Mark 13:8 NAS
I often think about the events that led up to the birth of my children. What if I had not taken my wife to the hospital as she was entering into labor. What if she and I had delayed in our preparations for our children? It seems to reason that things would have been extremely difficult.
Preparation is vital – especially now in the beginning of the birth pangs. The new birth is coming soon, and we have no more time to delay.
