Bikers Church Cape Town

“Brain washing”#4 by Pastor George Lehman   Many people would rather believe their doubts and doubt their beliefs.   Previous sermons #1 Realize where the war is #2 Get a grip on your mind, get a grip on your life #3 Remove stumbling blocks that will prevent your destiny It's in the application, not information. It's not to condemn you or make you feel guilty or like a failure.  It's allowing the Holy Spirit to convict you to change what need to change. Change is not change until you change   James 1:5-8 (NIV) - 5If any of you lacks wisdom*, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault; and it will be given to him.  6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.  7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. (we cannot receive wisdom from God when we doubt) *Wisdom is the ability to use the KNOWLEDGE you've acquired WISELY Therefore, you need to get the word into your mind and into your life, you can't use what you don't have!! #4 Don't let double-mindedness destroy you.   Have you ever thought – what produces the “up-today”, “down-tomorrow” mentality and many times an unsure, insecure, intimidated feeling about tomorrow? What causes people to be in the church today, shouting, praising, confessing their faith in Jesus AND end up missing church and cells and many times no longer involved at all? The answer is “doublemindedness”. “Double mindedness is a very dangerous and destructive state of mind. That's why we need to be brain washed to make sure we are single minded. James 1:8 says, “That it causes people to be UNSTABLE in ALL their ways.  All you do. (Inconsistency is when our actions and our thoughts are not consistent with God's word) It's like being in a rowing boat without OARS on a rough sea. Up and down without control over your direction. It's interesting to note the term “doubled-minded” in James 1:8. In Greek it is = “Dipsuchos”, which means vacillating (Wisselvallig) (fluctuate in opinion or purpose or resolution*). *Resolution:  temper or character (make promises you can't keep) Divided loyalty between God and worldly desires. No wonder people change ministries, marriages, jobs – They're not in it long enough to prosper and fulfil their God-given destiny. I have a newsflash for you… “Doublemindedness” will lead to failure and destruction.  A double-minded life will get you nowhere twice as fast. When your mind doesn't know which way to go AND you're not preparing it for action: (1 Peter 1:13 – Prepare your mind for action.) - You become prone to deception. To believe you ok with what's not ok. - You're an easy mark for the devil (like a wounded animal to prey, they isolate and attack). He will influence you with his deceptive devices of doubt, fear, worry and anxiety. Your mind becomes a dumping ground, so you receive the opposite to TRUTH = which is A LIE. Feed your faith and your doubts will starve to death. “Double-mindedness” will cause you to: - Lose, when you could win! - Cry when you could laugh! - Doubt when you could believe! - Be bitter & unforgiving when you could forgive and be free. Churches and ministries are being held back from experiencing the supernatural because of a LARGE number of its ranks are indulging in “doublemindedness”. How does it work? The process: Once “doublemindedness” has (infiltrated) entered the territory of your mind in your sub-conscious or conscious thought patterns. Instability is created. You become a victim of your own mind. You begin to lose control and the ability to make clear, productive decisions. The end result:  FAILURE and defeat. The Good news is, Praise God, in Christ Jesus we don't have a “double-mind”, we have a SOUND MIND. 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV) - For God hath not given us the spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a SOUND MIND. A sound mind is not split between TWO opinions but is secure and stable.  It's single-minded. By brainwashing our minds with the thoughts from the Word of God you can live like winners. It is the Word of God that you discipline your mind to think and meditate on that prospers your life. The more you train your mind to stay focused on God and His word, the more peace and security you will experience. Isaiah 26:3 (Amp) - You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose MIND [both its inclination and its character] is stayed* on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You. *stayed = Prop: Support that holds things up. That's why it is so important that once you have received the Word of God in your mind, only you can make a determined decision not to allow negative thoughts of doubt, fear, worry, anxiety or confusion to steal, kill or destroy or override your word thoughts and trick you into “doublemindedness”. Continual study of Gods word, prayer and exposure to the anointed, spoken Word, faithfulness to church and cell attendance will help guard against “doublemindedness”. After hearing this word, you realise that you have allowed your mind to float in and out, back and forth and up and down in “doublemindedness”.  It's not too late, you can change. Firstly, you must be willing to see and admit that you've been unstable in your thinking. Secondly you must be willing to receive correction. (Don't let double-mindedness lead you to stubbornness and rebellion and a hardened heart). The enemy wants to keep your belief system unstable. James 4:7-8 (NIV) - Submit yourselves, then, to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you.  Come near to God and he will come near to you.  Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your heart, you who are double-minded. Paul gave specific instruction on how to identify and resist the enemy's thoughts: Philippians 4:8 (KJV) - Finally, brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is HONEST, whatever is JUST, whatever is PURE, whatever is LOVELY, whatever is of GOOD REPORT, if anything is excellent and if there be any praise, think on these things. Every time one of those 650 000 approx thoughts comes into your mind, check it against this: Here's the measuring stick: Is it true?  Honest?  Just?  Is it pure?  Lovely?  Is it of a good report? If it matches – let it in.  If it doesn't – kick it out. Refuse entrance to anything that does not agree with the measuring stick. When you allow discouragement, depression, fear, doubts, worry, anxiety, frustration to camp out in your life, “doublemindedness” will be the result AND it will destroy you. In closing:  By brainwashing your MIND. Romans 12:2 – Don't be conformed but transformed by the renewing of the mind, “so that you may prove for yourself what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect (in His sight for you). The longer you maintain a positive, productive thought trend, the greater your chances are for success, prosperity, victory and walking and living in the destiny God has already purposed for your life.  You destroy “doublemindedness”. This is not for a select few to achieve; it's for everyone who will come.  Most of us are growing even with the very little bit of effort we put into our bible study, prayer life, our commitment to the ministry and lifestyle God has called us to. Le us aim to be Single-Minded, by brain washing our minds with God's truths.

“Brain washing” #3 by Pastor George Lehman   If you don't change your direction, you'll end up where you're headed. (You are either heading in victory or defeat)   Last 2 weeks #1 Realize where the WAR is. (ITS IN THE MIND) #2 Get a grip on your mind, get a grip on your life.   It's in the application, NOT only the information!!! That the success & breakthrough comes #3 Removing stumbling blocks that prevent your destiny Stumbling blocks cause us to lose direction. Take a look around where you're sitting and find five things that have the color blue in them.  In the same way, you've probably noticed that after you buy a new bike or car, you promptly see that make of bike or car everywhere.  That's because people find what they are looking for. At times in our lives, God seems strangely absent, but the problem is not that God has disappeared. We simply lack a “God” mindset”.  The devil wants you to focus on the negative things that will distract you. When we develop a Holy Spirit sensitivity by “Brainwashing our minds” with the Word of God.  We soon begin to see His work everywhere.  You only see what you look for. What we PERCEIVE [begryp] what we allow in our minds (our thought life); and that Determines what we RECEIVE, it's either what God's word says about the situation OR a deceptive lie form the devil; Determines what we ACHIEVE. It's either God's successful thoughts and plans for your life … OR a failure mentality and never really fulfilling God's best for your life. You have a destiny and it's related to God's prophecy to what He has written and spoken about you in His Word. The devil knows this – he will do all he can to infiltrate your mind to upset God's destiny for you.  He will try find your weaknesses or cracks in your Spiritual Armour. 1 Corinthians 2:8(Amp) – None of the rulers of this age or world perceived and recognized and understood this, for if they had, they would never have crucified the Lord of glory. 1 Peter 1:13 – “Prepare your minds for action” The devil's idea is to get you and I to think thoughts contrary to God's Word concerning His Will and Plan for us. All you need is a good brainwashing – Change your mind to what God's Word says. Proverbs 23:7 (KJV) - “For as (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he.” No matter what situation you find yourself in today, let it be known that God wants you to prosper and has ordained you to have an abundant life.   Ephesians 1:4-5 (Amp) - 4Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy (consecrated and set apart for Him) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love.  5For He foreordained us (destined us, planned in love for us) to be adopted (revealed) as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will [because it pleased Him and was His kind intent]   Ephesians 3:20 (Amp) - Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams] This is the truth - it's up to us to limit that power OR allow it to set us free.  It all goes back to the battle in the mind - what you know and believe, that you will ACHIEVE. 2 Peter 1:3 (Amp) - For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite (necessary for success) and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue). The work is complete – don't let the devil lie to you. Quite often we become discouraged because we don't understand that: - God has empowered us with supernatural strength. - Not just to endure, but to overcome. Enduring is good but man it's about time you overcome now too!! Because we haven't grasped this, we often use our problems, our faults or weaknesses to make excuses FOR NOT fulfilling our God-given destiny. Here's some advice:  If you feel weak or your situation seems hopeless - Stop saying so! Stop confessing it! That song that says: I will say (SPEAK IT OUT) “IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL” Joel 3:10 - “Let the weak say, I am strong” If you say what the enemy presented to you, he wins.  Confess God's word and you WIN. Get a grip on your MIND, you get a grip on your LIFE. Our words have so much power, Jesus said Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV) - But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.  For by your words, you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. Your thoughts establish your circumstances. Proverbs 12:14 (Amp) - From the *fruit of his WORDS a man shall be satisfied with good…” *fruit = in other words, what's growing in you; comes out of your mouth – either good or bad. Whatever God says He will do for you, HE WILL DO! Psalm 89:34 (NIV) - My covenant will I not break or profane (disregard), nor alter the thing that is gone out of My lips.                                 If you don't read the Word of God, you can't know the Word of God. It's that simple. If you don't know the Word of God, you can't speak the Word of God. If you can't speak the truths of God's Word, you'll speak your own ideas out of Ignorance and destroy God's destiny for you. This will lead to stumbling blocks the enemy uses to derail your destiny. Our theme –#3 “removing stumbling blocks, that prevent your destiny”.  The stumbling blocks are rooted in the heart.  If you let these stumbling blocks become rooted in the heart, they become serious issues to deal with and repent of. Some of these stumbling blocks are: #1 IGNORANCE (you are only as ignorant as what you are allowing yourself to be.) It's one of the most subtle stumbling blocks, because it keeps people from realizing or correcting their lives. You see revelation knowledge is the key to this mental battle.  (Feed the mind with ammunition.) Hosea 4:6 (Amp) - “my people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge” = IGNORANCE. #2 LOW SELF-ESTEEM God created you so HE knows your capabilities and your potential.  A poor self-image will prevent you from receiving God's best for your life.  God's work is always superior not inferior – “God don't make no junk”. Example in Numbers 13 – 12 spies sent out by Moses.  10 had a low self-image.  2 (Joshua and Caleb) knew their God and who they were: Daniel 11:32 (Amp) - … but the people who know their God shall prove themselves strong and shall stand firm and do *exploits [for God]. *exploits = bold and daring #3 LAZINESS This is a big stumbling block, because it prevents you from wholeheartedly pursuing God.  Laziness will always find excuses not to do anything. Or to do the bare minimum. Proverbs 13:4 (Amp) - The appetite of the sluggard (LAZY one) craves and gets nothing, but the appetite of the diligent is abundantly supplied. Lazy people also want, but get zippo, Nothing. #4 MEDIOCRITY [Middelmatig] (It's the top of the bottom but the bottom of the top) It's a real stumbling block, because people don't strive to produce excellence in their lives. Good enough is okay Average is well enough. Well God is an excellent God and He expects us to serve Him in excellence.  In our prayer life, our praise and worship, our Bible study, in our relationships. Mediocrity and laziness will cause you to miss your blessings. #5 DISOBEDIENCE It's more than just a stumbling block; disobedience is a SIN. Deuteronomy 11:26-28 (NIV) - 26See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse – 27the blessing if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today; 28the curse if you disobey the commands of the Lord your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known. God makes it clear:  The choice to obey is always ours - obedient MIND = obedient LIFE. We don't have time to discuss major stumbling blocks like: Pride/ Anger/ Un forgiveness/ Bitterness Don't be unwilling to change – if God's word says, “one thing” and you're doing another, “THEN CHANGE!” Romans 12:11 (Amp) - Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord.                                       God will empower you, but you need to “Remove the stumbling blocks”.  Change the attitude of your mind and pursue the destiny God has already planned for you. If you don't change your direction, you'll end up where you're headed.

“Brain washing” #2 by Pastor George Lehman (This is not about being brain washed; but about washing our brain (soul) with the Word) Satan uses a vacant mind as a dumping ground. Put up a “no dumping” sign over your mind. The problem is our ‘no dumping' sign is covered with: worry, defeat, discouragement, anxiety and fear. Get a grip on your MIND and get a grip on your life. It's a known fact that you become what you think. Proverbs 23:7 (KJV) - “For as (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he.” Predominant thoughts present present action.  An uncontrolled mind produces an uncontrolled life. Let me ask you, when last did you replace a negative, anxious, fearful or failure thought with God's positive truth from His Word? Both Paul and Peter gave some very clear instructions that will help you to get a grip on your mind and get a grip on your life. 1 Peter 1:13 (NIV) - Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. Notice where we must prepare; our mind (soul). Set your minds and keep them set. Spiritual Alertness: It means being spiritually alert and sober-minded, ready to resist temptation and stand firm in faith against the spiritual battles that we as believers face. Philippians 4:8 (Amp) - For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them]. These scriptures tell us that we are the WARDENS and Gatekeepers of our own minds – we decide what enters our minds. The question is - what kind of life do you want? The life you're living right now is what you have allowed into your mind. Let me tell you, if you want to experience the continual blessings, prosperity and victory that God has ordained for you then you need to monitor the thoughts you think (garbage in, garbage out). You need to let the Word of God get a good grip on your MIND. Once you let the Word grab hold of your thought patterns and you tune into the Holy Spirit, I promise you, your mind will begin to tune out the negative things that are destroying your faith. Set your minds and keep them set. Like a car radio, you set the program until it's tunes in then press memory and you'll keep it set on that station You cannot be on the same frequency of the Holy Spirit and the devil's lies, if you do then you'll process the supernatural, powerful things that God thinks about you and says about you.  Your seeking His face will be with (great expectation). Your thoughts will become His thoughts and His ways your ways. I guarantee you; you will walk and live in a new dynamic. John 14:12 (Amp) - I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father. 1 Corinthians 2:16 (Amp) - For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge?  But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart.           We can think God's thoughts concerning us instead of the enemy's proposals, which only suggest failure, sickness, defeat, poverty, weakness, fear, worry, anger, resentment, inferiority and so many other negative emotions. Here's a comforting thought – God has thought clearly about our victory and success. Isaiah 14:24 (Amp) – The Lord of hosts has sworn, saying, Surely, as I have thought and planned, so shall it come to pass, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand. He doesn't see you with problems or as a failure. He sees you in the completed fulfilled purposed position that He died for you to have and receive.   Psalm 139:17 (Amp) – How precious and weighty also are your thoughts to me, o God!!.  How vast is the sum of them?   Jeremiah 29:11 – I know the thoughts and plans I have for your life.   Isaiah 55:11 (NIV) - So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. We must wash our MINDS with some truths AND get a grip on your life. You'll always be more convinced by what you've discovered than by what others have found: Go from being dependent on others to being dependent on God. He is the source of direction.  Yet too many people base what they believe, do and say on what others believe, do and say. Revelation is only revelation when it's your revelation.  God is best known by revelation, not explanation. Obviously, God uses Pastors, Christian leaders, books, Christian TV, tapes and other ways to speak truth into our lives. The most important conviction in our lives cannot be reached on the word of another. “The Bible is so simple you have to have someone else help you misunderstand it,” says Charles Capps. Theologians are always trying to make the Bible a book without common sense.  God made it easy to find out for ourselves. If you don't decide to get a grip on your mind and get a grip on your life - no one can do it for you! At this point, let's look at things that will help you get a grip on your mind, because whatever is keeping your life unproductive – “originated in your MIND”. Can I encourage you, look at your life, look at your productivity and effectiveness. If what's in your life isn't good, in Jesus Name, don't approve it!, don't get comfortable with it! don't get satisfied with it! Change it. Just remember, you're the one – who has approved your poor prayer life and your lack of studying God's Word. Decide now to get a grip on your mind and you'll get a grip on your life. Be Brainwashed by Gods wonderful truths!!! When we win in our minds, we going to win in our lives!

“Brain washing” #1 By Pastor George Lehman   It is possible for a child of God to have a new life, and a new heart, but be without a new head. We are New Kingdom people with Old Kingdom thinking I'm not talking about being brainwashed to believe something you don't want to. Realizing where the war is Romans 7:21-25 (Amp) - 21So I find it to be a law (rule of action of my being) that when I want to do what is right and good, evil is ever present with me and I am subject to its insistent demands. 22For I endorse and delight in the Law of God in my inmost self [with my new nature].  23But I discern in my bodily members in the sensitive appetites and wills of the flesh] a different law (rule of action) at war against the law of my mind (my reason) and making me a prisoner to the law of sin that dwells in my bodily organs [in the sensitive appetites and wills of the flesh].  24O unhappy and pitiable and wretched man that I am!  Who will release and deliver me from [the shackles of] this body of death?  25O thank God!  [He will!] through Jesus Christ (the Anointed One) our Lord!  So then indeed I, of myself with the mind and heart, serve the Law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin. Thanks be to God it is possible.  Imagine 2 countries at war.  Bombs, rifle fire, lots of noise. The only problem is that the armies are fighting in 2 completely different areas.  How can anyone win over the other if they're not fighting at the same spot? So many spirit-filled believers go through life defeated – AND don't walk in their promised land (the fullness of God) because they don't know where the war is in their lives. So many Christians believe their failures and defeats come from: Bad luck - Bad timing - Bad family background and Any other negative circumstances. When actually they don't understand that their failures and defeats in life come as a result of “Losing the WAR in the MIND”. Some Christians don't even realize there is a war! Many think or say, “I am a Christian, but life is just this way”. Their life is a bit like going from victory to defeat – up and down life. I Can't be a good witness for Jesus.  An enthusiastic, effective life is for special people, “NOT ME”. Listen, there is a WAR, and we have an enemy. Revelation 12:9-12 (Amp) - 9And the huge dragon was cast down and out - that age-old serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, he who is the seducer (deceiver) of all humanity the world over; he was forced out and down to the earth, and his angels were flung out along with him.  10Then I heard a strong (loud) voice in heaven, saying, Now it has come - the salvation and the power and the kingdom (the dominion, the reign) of our God, and the power (the sovereignty, the authority) of His Christ (the Messiah); for the accuser of our brethren, he who keeps bringing before our God charges against them day and night, has been cast out!  11And they have overcome (conquered) him by means of the blood of the Lamb and by the utterance of their testimony, for they did not love and cling to life even when faced with death [holding their lives cheap till they had to die for their witnessing].  12Therefore, be glad (exult), O heavens and you that dwell in them!  But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in fierce anger (fury), because he knows that he has [only] a short time [left]! The devil lost his fight in heaven and got kicked out onto earth.  The result is he's desperate to destroy the lives of God's highest creation. However, God sent Jesus to redeem mankind and empower us to defeat the devil. The Work is finished, Jesus is seated, all we need to do is embrace the truth and make it our own. John 10:10 (NIV) - The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.(Abundant life) Luke 10:19 (NIV) - I have given you authority to trample snakes and scorpions, and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. Jesus gave us Authority over ALL of Satan's power.   So why are we still at WAR? Satan knows that Jesus came so we could have life and have it more abundantly.  You see, Satan came to steal, kill and destroy that which Jesus has already died for us to have and possess.  If he can steal, kill or destroy our concept and understanding of Jesus' finished work “in your thought life”, then he can steal, kill and destroy us. The only real weapon Satan can use against us is DECEPTION.  Deception begins in our minds, in our thought patterns Deceive = Make a person believe what is false, mislead purposefully. Did you know: - that the human mind processes around 650 000 thoughts every 24 hours. Some conscious and some sub-conscious. You need to realize this gives the spiritual principalities and the rulers of the darkness of this world, the enemy, about 650 000 opportunities to explode deceptive missiles of fear, doubt, confusion, frustration, anxiety, worry and any other negative device in your mental headquarters (fear=false evidence appearing real). If demons can deceive you into dwelling on these things they gain a tremendous amount of control over your life – it robs you of God's supernatural creative power your mind possesses. If we are going to win this WAR we need to fight in the right place.  We need to set up a strong word governed defence system. Almost like WALLS around a city giving 24 hour protection.   Proverbs 25:28 – Like a city whose walls are broken down, is a man who lacks self control. You need to have self-control as to what you allow into your mental headquarters. 1 Peter 1:13 (NIV) - Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. In order to be able to resist the enemy's attack against your MIND and THOUGHT life we need a good “Holy Ghost-Word-of-God brain washing” daily. Jesus said: John 15:3 (KJV) - Now you are clean through the WORD which I have spoken unto you. Our minds must be washed from whatever deceptive thoughts the enemy has planted in them.  Thoughts that want to take us off our God-ordained prosperous destiny. We really need a good BRAINWASHING. It's the continual hearing of the Word of God that causes the cleansing and renewing of your mind to take place. That's why coming to church and attending Home cells is of paramount importance, as a God ordained place of receiving THE WORD Ephesians 4:23 (Amp) - And be constantly* (without stopping) renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude]. This is how you win the battle in your mind. When you daily brainwash your mind with God's Word, you will be able to stand firm and resist whatever deceptive, negative thoughts the devil sends you regarding that issue you're struggling with.   Jesus said John 8:32 - And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. Ephesians 6:10-12 (Amp) - 10In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides.  11Put on God's whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.  12For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere. It's these spiritual forces that bombard your approximately 650 000 thoughts a day.  Wanting to create: confusion, havoc, fear, doubt, worry, anxiety, depression and all negative emotions available! They don't want you to fulfil your prosperous destiny. Jesus said, “as a man thinks, so is he”. Your Thoughts become your Actions and Your Actions become your Habits and Your Habits become your Character and Your Character becomes your Destiny If you don't like where you're headed (Destiny) change your thinking The first step to winning the WAR - position yourself for success and victory. Realize the war of the enemy is against your mind. Fight the enemy at the right battlefield. 1 Peter 4:1 (KJV) - Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, ARM yourselves likewise with the same MIND:  For He that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin. Philippians 2:5 - Let this MIND be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. Jesus' greatest trial in His earthly ministry (about to die on the cross).  Jesus prepared His mind for action and He prayed.  Now you realize where the WAR is. The source of faith: It is told that the great preacher D.L. Moody said, “I prayed for faith and thought that some day it would come down and strike me like lightning But faith didn't seem to come. One day I read in Romans (Rom10:17 that “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” I had up to this time, closed my Bible and prayed for faith.  Now I opened my Bible and began to study, and faith has been growing ever since.” Make a quality decision to defend your mind with a good word “Brainwashing” on a daily basis. Don't be a victim when Jesus made you a victor. Discipline your mind with the anointed Word of God. God blesses His Word – not ours. AMEN

Holiness is a Discipline Pastor Kobus Massyn 24/8/2025 Matthew 5:48 -  “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” Many believers desire holiness but lack the discipline that makes holiness visible in their lifestyle.   Point 1: Holiness is God's Call One-liner: “Holiness is not an event, it is a lifestyle of obedience.” 1 Peter 1:16 – “Be holy, because I am holy.” Holiness is not optional; it is the believer's calling. Discipline is what makes us consistentin responding to that call. Illustration: A soldier doesn't decide during battle if he will train. He disciplines himself beforethe fight. Point 2: Holiness is a Discipline that Equips Us One-liner: “Discipline is not punishment; it is preparation.” 2 Timothy 3:16–17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The Word of God disciplines us — corrects, trains, and equips. Discipline may feel unpleasant (Heb 12:11), but it produces maturity. Illustration: An athlete disciplines their body not for pain, but for the prize. Point 3: Holiness Begins with the Root, not Just the Fruit One-liner: “Holiness is not forced fruit; it's disciplined roots.” Romans 11:16 – “If the root is holy, so are the branches.” Discipline in holiness flows from the inside out. It's not behaviour modification, but heart transformation. We cannot discipline ourselves into holiness without being rooted in Christ — discipline without grace becomes legalism. Illustration: A tree doesn't force fruit; it stays rooted and nourished, and fruit grows naturally. Conclusion Hebrews 12:14 – “Make every effort… without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Holiness is God's calling, discipline is our response, and Christ is our root. It's not perfection tomorrow, but progress today.

Getting up when knocked down #6   Taking responsibility By Pastor George Lehman   How many people can you think of right now that you know need to take responsibility for their lives? WELL.......   ”Most of us can read the writing on the wall; we just assume it's addressed to someone else.”  - Ivern Ball   Small straws in a soft wind by Marsha Burns: A word from God Discouragement is a killer!  Beloved, everything touched by discouragement dies, and I speak of not only your health, finances and relationships.  But I speak of the responsibilities of your kingdom position and faith.  Refuse to allow negativity to keep you from the benefits of kingdom living.  Rise up says the Lord, take responsibility. (Ephesians 5:26) - Paul talks about “being washed by the water of the word”. Why do we wash?  Because we are dirty. Jesus wants His bride pure and clean when He returns for the wedding of the Lamb! When we come together, God's word wants to wash our false beliefs, our attitudes, misguided intentions and wrong perceptions. God wants for us to take responsibility for our lives and walk victoriously.  Getting up when life knocks us down. We increase our God-given ability, stability and responsibility when we increase our sense of accountability. We must take personal responsibility for our lives.  We may not be able to change the circumstances, the seasons or the wind but we can by taking responsibility - change yourself. 2 Peter 1:10 (CSV) – Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure for if you practice these qualities, you will never fail. Have you noticed our society has produced people who ignore their responsibility and blame others for their problems?   For example: If you get into financial trouble – “It's not my fault, it's because of easy credit.” If I develop lung cancer because of smoking – “It's not my fault, I blame the cigarette companies.” This happens in the church too! We begin to become Critical, complain look for faults, become lukewarm, miss church services, home cell… “It's not my fault – it's the churches fault – they're hypocrites, they're not spiritual enough, they don't meet my needs, they hurt me or offended me. The bible is very clear about our responsibility. Romans 14:12 (NIV) – So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.   Galatians 6:4-5 (Msg) - Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life. God is going to hold us responsible for choices we make. It's easy to dodge your responsibilities, but you cannot dodge the consequences of dodging your responsibilities. Some definitions of responsibility. Hebrew word in some places mean - “Burden” – in other words you may not always enjoy it, but you're committed to it.  (Think of Jesus in Gethsemane) There is a cost that comes with taking responsibility. The Greek word implies that you were “placed over something”. When God saved you, He trusts you to take RESPOSIBILITY over that which HE has called you to accomplish. The Webster dictionary means:  “You are totally dependable.” A question to ask yourself “AM I DEPENDABLE” (Responsible people are dependable.) Nothing adds ‘muscle' to your talent and gifts like responsibility. Sadly, responsibility is often the last choice people desire to take, and the results speak for themselves. “Success on any major scale requires you to accept responsibility. In the final analysis, the one quality that all successful, significant people have is the ability to take responsibility.”  - Michael Kord The most wonderful and priceless thing is to find a child of God who will take responsibility… who will finish and follow through to the final detail… to see someone who accepts his God-given assignment and lives it effectively and passionately. Responsible people are reliable people.   Philemon 21 (Amp) – I write to you [perfectly] confident of your obedient compliance, knowing that you will do even more than I ask. How to ensure you take responsibility. #1 Decide right now, start wherever you are. Don't wait another moment! We become what we are as people by the decisions that we ourselves make. Each time you take responsibility for your spiritual life, you become a more reliable and responsible person. Faithfulness begets faithfulness! When it comes to responsibility, the best helping hand you will ever find is at the end of your arm. #2 Part of the power of taking responsibility for your actions is that you silence the negative, unhelpful, unfaithful thoughts in your head. #3 Every time you commit yourself to do what you should… you strengthen your self-discipline which increases your ability for responsibility. #4 Never forget this if you want to go from success to significance “with great power comes great responsibility”. It never ceases to amaze me how Christians want to be used mightily by God but never really want to take responsibility for the small details of their spiritual lives. You will never grow beyond your responsibility. “A man who lacks reliability is utterly useless.”  - Confucius It is easy to have ideas, comments and criticism when you take no responsibility. It is very clear that God expects us to take responsibility for our lives. Luke 12:48 - “But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.” This verse reminds us that with great blessings and privileges come greater responsibilities. God expects us to use the resources, talents, and opportunities He has given us wisely and responsibly Colossians 3:23-24 (Amp) – 23Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men. 24knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah).

Getting up when knocked down. #5  - Turning anger into positive action | Pastor George Lehman Getting up when knocked down. #5  Turning anger into positive action Pastor George Lehman This may just be a title; but if we are not alert it can have devastating consequences.   It is wise to direct your anger towards problems, not people; to focus your energies on answers, not excuses.                  -W.A. Ward   When we angry we treat people harshly, we blame and make excuses. The call to live in victory in this area of your life is not impossible with God's help and a surrendered will. May God stir within us the will to want to change. If you have no real victory in this area of your life, you'll keep getting knocked down. Story about Tommy Bolt, who was a professional golf champion, but he was more famous for his terrific temper.  Huge crowds followed him just to see what he would do next.  One day, giving a group lesson on how to hit a ball out of a bunker, he called his 11-year-old son and said, “Show the people what you've learned from your father when your shot lands in the sand.  The boy picked up the wedge then ‘hurled it as far as he could'.   Most of us allow anger to get the best of us at times According to a ‘boiling point report' (sponsored by Britain's Mental Health Organisation) … More than 1 in 10 people said they have real trouble controlling their anger. More than 1 in 4 said they worry about how angry they sometimes feel. 64% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that people in general are getting angrier. We all know what happens to us when we become angry or mad. Adrenaline floods our system. Our heart rate rises with our blood pressure. Muscles tense; breathing is shallow. Anger is extremely bad for your health. You hear about road rage or anger management in the media. Many people believe that all anger is bad.  (Not true). There are times when it's appropriate to be angry in response to cruelty or injustice.  If an intruder invaded your home or if someone threatened your children. Jesus became angry…John 2:15 (NIV) - …when he made a whip and chased the people out of the temple. Acts 17:16 (Amp) - Now while Paul was awaiting them at Athens, his spirit was grieved and roused to anger as he saw that the city was full of idols. Many of the knock downs we endure in life make us angry. Always bear in mind:  Anger is just one letter short of D-anger. Here are some examples.  Consider where your life best fits. The exploder Exploders are like active volcanoes – sometimes a little shaking is all it takes to produce a massive eruption. These are the kind of people who yell, break things, curse and make demands when things don't go their way. Being subtle is not in their vocabulary when they're MAD. They are quick to blow up and usually quick to calm down. People around them feel covered with LAVA! Ephesians 4:31 (CEV) - Stop being bitter and angry and mad at others. Don't yell at one another or curse each other or ever be rude. The Victim Victims struggle with expressing their emotions. Their anger remains bottled up and unresolved. Rather than showing their anger, they turn it inward on themselves. They smother their spirit through self-belittlement, blame and guilt. “I can't do anything right” comes out of their mouths frequently. Victims often suffer from hypertension and headaches. They may cling to others to the point of driving them away. The Manipulator Manipulators, likewise, hide their anger.  They don't raise their voice or curse (like the exploder). Instead of turning their anger inward, they lash out at others with sarcasm, subtle comments to inspire guilt. They use any method - authority, money, power. Leaving those around them feeling used and abused. The Rager Rager's often were raised by controlling parents. As grown-ups, they're angry at the world – ready to attack at even slight provocation. Their consistent fury pushes others away and leads to frequent disputes. They tend to see the worst in everything and everyone. To protect themselves from hurt, they make anger their mode of operation. Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured. Remember: Your anger may be justified.  It's okay to be angry, BUT keep this very clearly in mind…   Ephesians 4:26 (Amp) - When angry, do not sin; do not ever let your wrath (your exasperation, your fury or indignation) last until the sun goes down. We can use that anger to fuel a constructive plan of action. What I highly recommend is another style…RELEASE! The Releaser Instead of taking on the role of the victim, exploder, manipulator or Rager when crises strike. The approach is:  ‘feel it' then ‘use it' then ‘let it go.” Releasers don't try to hide their anger or unleash it on innocent bystanders but embrace their outrage and use it as a signal to adopt a strategy for positive action. #1 Face most anger as sin. Releasers don't waste time blaming, shifting responsibility, feeling guilty or making excuses. James 1:19-20 (Amp) – 19Understand [this], may beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry. 20For man's anger does not promote the righteousness God [wishes and requires]. Anger is a work of the flesh. Galatians 5:20 (Amp) - Idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, anger (ill temper), selfishness, divisions (dissensions), party spirit (factions, sects with peculiar opinions, heresies), #2 Repent of anger. Go to God and specifically confess your anger. David understood what it meant to be a releaser. Psalm 32:3-6 (LB) - 3There was a time when I wouldn't admit what a sinner I was.  But my dishonesty made me miserable and filled my days with frustration.  4All day and all night your hand was heavy on me.  My strength evaporated like water on a sunny day.   5Until I finally admitted all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide them.  I said to myself, “I will confess them to the Lord.”  And you forgave me!  All my guilt is gone.  6Now I say that each believer should confess his sins to God when he is aware of them, while there is time to be forgiven.  Judgment will not touch him if he does. When you confess with openness, humility and honesty, God will forgive and restore and renew you. #3 Let go of your anger. Hanging on to your anger is unhealthy and destructive. Holding on to your anger doesn't help you.  It just gets in the way of enjoying the rest of your life. Anger is a Joy Stealer. Ephesians 4:31 (Amp) - Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). Notice it's a problem of the flesh that Paul says you can and must ‘get rid of all'. God wants to help us walk in freedom from anger. We must want to change and be active and determined to deal with our anger. Times of refreshing and victory comes from a surrendered, repentant heart. Acts 3:19 (Amp) - So repent (change your mind and purpose); turn around and return [to God], that your sins may be erased (blotted out, wiped clean), that times of refreshing (of recovering from the effects of heat, of reviving with fresh air) may come from the presence of the Lord;  

“The Authority Given to Us” Pastor Kobus Massyn 3/8/2025 Clarification on Authority for a Believer Definition of Authority: Authority has the power and right to act, speak, or make decisions granted by God. Key Verse: Hebrews 1:1-2 - "In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe." The Kingdom Has a King Key Verse: Matthew 28:18 - "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." Additional References: - Revelation 1:5-6 - "...to him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve God and Father." - Psalm 103:19 - "The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all." The Fear of the Lord Key Verse: Proverbs 1:7 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge." Additional References: - Proverbs 9:10 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." - Isaiah 11:2-3 - Describing the Spirit of the Lord resting on the Messiah, which includes "the spirit of the fear of the Lord." Keys to the Kingdom Key Verse: Matthew 16:19 - "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven." Additional References: - Luke 10:19 - "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." - John 14:13-14 - "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." Conclusion Key Verse: 2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind."

Fear not, only believe | Len Weyers Mark 5

Getting up when knocked down. #4 Denial to renewal Never underestimate the power of denial. By Pastor George Lehman   Denial is a weapon we give to the enemy to use against us. We are not lacking information or even revelation.  We are sorely lacking in application.  The ‘doing' part of what we keep hearing. Most of us are experts at ignoring the inconvenient facts of life. If we don't ignore them we must do something about them. Denial can become one of the most effective tools the enemy will use (if you'll let him) to keep you knocked down. The danger of denial is that you prevent yourself from accepting truth about yourself. You begin to believe that your life, your mess up's, poor conduct and wilful sin, even your poor attitude is Okay and acceptable! For many, denial is their way of coping when life knocks them down. If you start your day without caffeine or pep pills.  If you can be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains.  If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles.  If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it.  If you can understand when loved ones are too busy to give you time.  If you can take criticism and blame without resentment.  If you can face the world without lies or denial.  If you can do all these things, Then, you are probably the family dog.   What is denial?  It is refusing to believe something that is true. Matthew 16:24 (Amp) – Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself [disregard, lose sight of and forget himself and his own interests] and take up his cross and follow Me [cleave steadfastly to Me, conform wholly to My example in living and, if need be, in dying also]. (Jesus connects self-denial with finding true life) Many times we are in Denial of the Christ life truth. Psychologists say: it's a process by which painful truths are not admitted into an individual's consciousness. If I accept it into my conscience, I will have to change or do something about it. “The worst lies are the lies we tell ourselves.  We live in denial of what we do, even what we think.  We do this because we are afraid.” -  Richard Bach Galatians 6:5 (NCV) - Each person must be responsible for himself. Our denials can take many forms. Denial of fact. The obvious way to deny the truth is to lie. Telling a story, we leave out certain details. Officer, I didn't know I was driving so fast. I never heard you ask me to clean up my room. I would love to help with your move but I'm busy this weekend. People lie to avoid uncomfortable situations or to make themselves look better. Denial of denial. Maybe the most dangerous form of denial is when we don't even recognize we're denying reality. Here is one of those denial stories King Saul's life… 1 Samuel 15:16-24 (Amp) - 16Then Samuel said to Saul, Stop! I will tell you what the Lord said to me tonight. Saul said to him, Say on.  17Samuel said, when you were small in your own sight, were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the Lord anointed you king over Israel?  18And the Lord sent you on a mission and said, “Go”, utterly destroy the sinners, the Amalekites; and fight against them until they are consumed.  19Why then did you not obey the voice of the Lord, but swooped down upon the plunder and did evil in the Lord's sight?  20Saul said to Samuel, “Yes, I have obeyed the voice of the Lord and have gone the way which the Lord sent me and have brought Agag king of Amalek and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites.  21But the people took from the spoil sheep and oxen, the chief of the things to be utterly destroyed, to sacrifice to the Lord your God in Gilgal.”  22Samuel said, “Has the Lord as great a delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  23For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as idolatry and teraphim (household good luck images). Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.”  24And Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice.” Covering up what we look like on the inside is denial we refuse to accept or deal with who we really are! Especially after hearing the word being convicted by the Holy Spirit to change certain things, you just ignore it (That's Denial) In the days of royalty in England, Kings and Queens, when an artist painted their portraits, they never were allowed to include their blemishes and flaws.  He made them look better than they did. We  call it Photo shop today Here are some phrases that a person in denial uses often: I can handle this… It's not really a problem. I don't need help. I don't need counselling. I can quit anytime. I can work it out on my own. The problem is we can't handle it The truth is you have a problem! The problem with denial is that the longer it goes on, the more we hurt ourselves and the harder it is to come to terms with the truth. Think about David after his sin with Bathsheba. 2 Samuel 12:1-7 (Amp) – And the Lord sent Nathan to David. He came and said to him, There were two men in a city, one rich and the other poor.  2The rich man had very many flocks and herds, 3But the poor man had nothing but one little ewe lamb which he had bought and brought up, and it grew up with him and his children. It ate of his own morsel, drank from his own cup, lay in his bosom, and was like a daughter to him.  4Now a traveler came to the rich man, and to avoid taking one of his own flock or herd to prepare for the wayfaring man who had come to him, he took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for his guest.  5Then David's anger was greatly kindled against the man, and he said to Nathan, As the Lord lives, the man who has done this is a son [worthy] of death.  6He shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing and had no pity.  7Then Nathan said to David, You are the man! Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: I anointed you king of Israel, and I delivered you out of the hand of Saul. So many times, when a personal crises doesn't work, then God often uses people like a NATHAN. Psychologists call what Nathan did ‘intervention'. Going to a person in love and showing them what they are in denial about. Galatians 6:1-2 (LB) – Dear brothers, if a Christian is overcome by sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help him back onto the right path, remembering that next time it might be one of you who is in the wrong.  Share each other's troubles and problems and so obey our Lord's command. Has a friend or a spouse or a parent said to you lately, “You have a problem”?  We don't listen, rather we defend and make excuses. This is a sure sign that you possibly have a problem. Turning denial around to renewal takes a heavy dose of acceptance and a cup of humility blended with a spoonful of courage. That's why James talks so firmly to the church. James 1:22 (NLT) – But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. David understood that denial only kept his life in bondage and defeat. Listen how he protects himself from a life of denial. Psalm 139: 23-24 (Amp) - Search me [thoroughly], O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!  And see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.   Psalm 51:6 (Amp) - Behold, You desire truth in the inner being make me therefore to know wisdom in my inmost heart. When living with an attitude of denial it will cause you much hurt and knock downs. The good news is that… Philippians 1:6 (Amp) - And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you. God is more interested in what you become than what you achieve. Only with the support of a caring, loving, healing Jesus you can say, “I am capable of terrible things, but I am absolutely, unconditionally committed to You Lord.”  “ I am willing to change.” Ephesians 4:23-24 (Amp) -  And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude] And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God's image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness. Denial is a destroyer that should be cut off as quickly as possible. Acceptance and truth ‘always' are your surest path to peace and freedom. “Getting up when life knocks you down.”

Sermon Title: When Praise Breaks the Silence Theme: Praise is not just a sound we make—it's a stance we take, even in darkness. Introduction: A Song in the Dark Illustration: Some birds learn their song in the dark. Life tie-in: What do you sing when the lights go out? When the chains are tight? When the miracle hasn't come yet? Transition: Let me take you to a jail cell in Philippi... Praise in the Prison (Acts 16:16–34) Story Flow: Paul & Silas beaten, bloody, bound. Midnight comes. They choose not to complain—but to praise. Result: Earthquake. Chains fall. Prison doors open. Salvation comes. Insight: They praised beforethe breakthrough. Their praise was heard by others—praise is a testimony. Preaching line: They didn't wait for the light to sing—they sang, and the light came. Praise as a Weapon (2 Chronicles 20:21–22 & Joshua 6:1–20) Jehoshaphat sends worshippersahead of warriors. Joshua at Jericho: Seven days of obedience, then a shout of praise. The walls fall. Insight: Praise precedes victory. Some strongholds only fall when we shout in obedience and faith. Preaching line: Your shout may feel foolish—but it may be the sound that shakes your Jericho. Praise as Presence (Psalm 22:3, Psalm 34:1, Isaiah 61:3) God inhabits praise. David chooses to praise at all times. Isaiah 61:3: "Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness." Insight: Praise is something we put on, like a garment. When heaviness comes, don't wear it—choose praise. Preaching line: When the spirit of heaviness wraps around you, don't wear it—change clothes and put on praise. Praise as a Sacrifice (Hebrews 13:15 & Romans 12:1) "Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise." "Present your bodies as a living sacrifice... this is your true worship." Insight: Praise is costly when it's given in pain. A living sacrifice means praise is a daily choice, even when it hurts. Preaching line: Praise isn't just in your mouth—it's in your choices, your surrender, your whole life laid down. Conclusion: From Prison to Purpose Paul and Silas didn't just get free—the jailer was saved. Your praise isn't just about your breakthrough—it's about someone else's salvation. Call to Action: Invite people to praise right where they are—especially in their midnight moments. Closing Declaration (Psalm 34:1) "I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth." Let the congregation declare it with you. Optional Title Variants: The Power of Praise Prison Songs & Palace Doors Why I Still Praise

Getting up when knocked down. #3 The hurt that heals (Like a physical injury it takes time and proper discipline it will heal) By Pastor George Lehman No matter how far life pushes you down, no matter how much you hurt, you can always bounce back.   Story of a man on an island: A man gets stranded on an island, spend hours praying for God to come to his rescue, He builds a hut out of every piece of plant material and wreckage he can find.  He goes off to look for food after 4 weeks of being stranded and still trusting God to send help to save him. From a distance he suddenly sees smoke on the other side of the island.  He thinks it's a boat that has come to rescue him and he starts running back to his humble little hut he build, just to find that it is his hut that is on fire! Distraught, he shouts and cries out to God why the only thing that protects me was allowed to burn, God why have you forsaken me?.  Later, through his tears and cries of anguish, he hears something from a distance  – it was a boat! Safely rescued and on the ship, He asked the people on board how they knew that he was there.  They replied that they had seen the huge cloud of smoke coming from the island. Nobody likes to be hurt.  Whether it is physical or mental. Pain can be traumatic. Throughout history, philosophers, religious thinkers and intellectuals have tried to decode pain. Medical researchers devote millions of dollars every year to find drugs to alleviate pain. Dealing with pain and hurt is an important part of growing up. We can all understand physical pain. However, emotional pain can be just as devastating, often more so! People react to pain differently. The anguish (angs) that results from emotional abuse, the loss of a loved one, a job termination, a friends' betrayal, divorce, disease, and disasters can make us physically sick and overwhelm us that we can barely function.  (I know you know.) Many people question God, raising their faces and fists towards heaven and asking God, WHY? Hurting people tend to hurt people. It's so hard to believe that healing is possible when you are experiencing deep pain. Jesus understands your pain, whether you are ready to believe that or not. What sickness can we suffer that could equal the pain of the scourge* that Jesus went through for you and me? *(whip to inflict severe punishment or suffering). The pain of rejection (He came to His own but His own received Him not. Isaiah 53:3 (NIV) – He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. He was betrayed and carried the shame of the cross.   Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) – Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. There is nothing we can go through that Jesus hasn't experienced so we can overcome! Hebrews 2:18 (Amp) – For because He Himself [in His humanity] has suffered in being tempted (tested and tried), He is able [immediately] to run to the cry of (assist, relieve) those who are being tempted and tested and tried [and who therefore are being exposed to suffering]. Our hurts and sufferings give us a new ability to demonstrate the compassion we receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (Amp) – Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement), Who comforts (consoles and encourages) us in every trouble (calamity and affliction), so that we may also be able to comfort (console and encourage) those who are in any kind of trouble or distress, with the comfort (consolation and encouragement) with which we ourselves are comforted (consoled and encouraged) by God. (This tells us God comes to the rescue) When you're stuck in a bad place physically or emotionally, pain can point us toward true healing. I want to encourage you to consider the following steps designed to move you through and beyond the process of hurts to healing growth. It will work if you give this a chance. #1 Invite the pain in. Many of us are programmed as kids to believe it's wrong to display emotion. ---- We learn to bury the evidence of painful feelings. The problem with suppressing our pain, it shows up in a variety of forms. Anger, anxiety, frustration, depression, sleeplessness, irritability, headaches and more. It affects our relationships and leads to isolation. It takes courage to open yourself to your hurts. You open the way for God to bring healing to your life. Self-pity comes when you lose the intimacy with Jesus. 1 Peter 2:19 (NIV) – For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. #2  Find someone to talk with. Often the best way to deal with inner turmoil is to talk about it. Identify a friend or a mentor someone who will listen without judging or giving you super spiritual advice. A problem shared is a problem halved. #3 Don't rush major decisions. Pain and grief exert enormous pressure on our emotions. In the midst of suffering, it's not a good time to make important or permanent life's decisions. What you're going through will pass – you don't want to create further hurt by making wrong decisions.   #4  Trust God to bring good from your hurt.   1 Samuel 30:4(Amp) – Then David and the men with him lifted up their voices and wept until they had no more strength to weep.   1 Samuel 30:6 (Amp) – David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him because the souls of them all were bitterly grieved, each man for his sons and daughters. But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God. Those of us who believe in God often blame Him for our troubles and pain. God does not promise His followers a pain free existence. Jesus told His disciples… John 16:33 (Amp) – I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]   NB!!!! Many believe and have the view that it means:  deliverance from trouble - No it's deliverance in trouble. God does not give us an overcoming life, He gives us life as we overcome. The strain is the strength, no strain, no strength, no perseverance, no endurance, no pain no gain. Paul to the Thessalonica church… 1 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV) – So that no one would be unsettled by these trials. You know quite well that we were destined for them. What then, is the purpose of our pain from God's perspective? God allows suffering to be a part of our lives to develop our faith, our character and spiritual condition.   Paul asked the same question of God… 2 Corinthians 12:8 (NIV) – Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. (A messenger of Satan to torment Paul) God's answer… 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) – But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. One day I believe, we will discover that whatever the hurt, pain or sufferings were, were individually tailor made for us. I walked a mile with pleasure she chattered all the way but left me none the wiser for all she had to say. I walked a mile with sorrow and ne'er a word said she but oh, the things I learned from her when sorrow walked with me. All the hurt and trials and sufferings we are subjected to throughout our lifetime cannot be compared with the eternal life that awaits all God's children. Romans 8:17-18 (NIV) – Now if we are children, then we are heirs —heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.  I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. It's like a prick of a needle compared to the joy of eternity.

Getting up when knocked down#2 The power of perseverance By Pastor George Lehman   Hebrews 10:36(Amp) – “For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, (PERSEVERANCE) so that you perform and fully accomplish the will of God and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised. “Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go.” - William Feather.   You are not giving up; you are getting up! Perseverance is not really needed when everything is great, when life is fine, no storms, all is okay, work, kids, husband/ wife, life couldn't be better BUT O' you had better hope that this quality called perseverance rises up in your life when times of Knockdowns, and heartache come We cannot talk about getting up when life knocks us down without talking about PERSEVERANCE. Hebrews 12:1 (NIV) – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Have you ever experienced so many problems and difficulties in your life that you didn't think you can go on? It's incredibly difficult to keep pressing on when everything and everyone seems to be encouraging you to quit. Unleashing the force called perseverance. When the daily routine of life wears on us and especially when the unexpected rises up to knock us down. Maybe you can relate to these scenarios. We all have our own knock=down stories to tell. We need perseverance to keep going. To persevere means: To persist in a state or undertaking in spite of counter influences, opposition or discouragement. Perseverance in the bible is interchangeable: steadfast and endurance (Staying power)   How is it that some people seem to overcome, not just survive but actually thrive? While others just collapse, even quit, under their steady pressure? Perseverance is about more than repeatedly telling yourself to work harder and keep trying. It is an attitude, an approach to life that can conquer seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It involves faith, patience and character. When perseverance is fully formed, it's one of the most powerful forces you can unleash. When life knocks you down, it's one of your most important weapons for fighting back. Perseverance does not simply ‘happen', it's a trait that must be cultivated. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (Amp) – And as for you, brethren, do not become weary or lose heart in doing right [but continue in well-doing without weakening]. You can develop and expand your ability to endure hard times by applying some of these strategies. #1 Look for joy. James 1:2-3 (NLT) – Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance (Perseverance) has a chance to grow. Psalm 119:143 (NLT) – As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands. It is possible to find JOY in what you're going through. #2 Seek out friends, mentors and role models. Never forget, no matter how bad your circumstance, someone has been through this before. 1 Peter 5:9 (NIV) – Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. Find people who can give you godly advice, maybe someone who has gone through similar difficulties as yours. #3  Prepare to persevere. When you're fighting a tough battle over a long period of time, it pays to prepare. Romans 5:3-4 (Amp) – Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance (Perseverance).  And endurance (fortitude)Staanvastigheid develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. Spending at least 30 minutes each morning with uplifting worship, prayer and reading your bible will prepare you like nothing else will. Romans 12:12 (Amp) – Rejoice and exult in hope; be steadfast and patient in suffering and tribulation; be constant in prayer.   #4 Turn doubts into motivation. Proverbs 17:20 (Msg) -”A bad motive can't achieve a good end: double-talk brings you double –trouble” Self-motivation means speaking Gods word positively and choosing to continue in faith until your breakthrough comes. NB! Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you did. #5 Its okay when you fail. It's tough to keep positive and keep going when every move you make feels like the wrong one. Continual defeat can wear down the most optimistic soul. If you're tired of failing, remember a simple truth “Successful people have more failure than anyone else.” The reason is people who persevere and grow through defeats (Knock-downs) are the ones who eventually succeed. #6 Allow God to grow your perseverance. Psalm 51:10 - Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering, {and} steadfast spirit within me. In a mysterious way, our troubles allow us to discover and develop reservoirs of strength and perseverance that most don't realize they have. When you're trusting the Lord, He uses our struggles to expand our ability. Ecclesiastes 3:14 (Msg) – I've also concluded that whatever God does, that's the way it's going to be, always. No addition, no subtraction. God's done it and that's it. That's so we'll quit asking questions and simply worship in holy fear. Sometimes we need to be hurt in order to grow. We must fail in order to know. We must lose in order to gain. Some lessons are learned best through pain. No matter what has knocked you down never give up or quit. Let perseverance be your engine that keeps you going. In order to get from what was (the knock down) to what will be (your breakthrough).  You must go through what is (that's perseverance). Please don't forget Paul's encouragement: 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (Amp) – And as for you, brethren, do not become weary or lose heart in doing right {that's perseverance} [but continue in well-doing without weakening]

Getting up when knocked down. #1 By Pastor George Lehman   Proverbs 24:16 - “For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked are overthrown by calamity. Calamity = An event causing great and often sudden damage or distress, a disaster, affliction, set back or adversity. “The results you achieve will be in direct proportion to the effort you apply.”  (getting up is a decision) God works with us, but we need to be working with God. Throughout your life you will most certainly experience many knock-down moments.  (Not if, but when they come.) “Life is a journey – often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel but we are all well equipped for it.  If only we tap into our talents and gifts that God has blessed us with and allow them to blossom.” - Les Brown (we need to water them with the Word) “Setbacks are setups for great come backs.”  The ceiling of difficulty and hardships as you rise up, will become the floor on which you will walk in your breakthrough. People are confronted with sudden unimaginable struggles, debilitating disease or injury, divorce, job loss, the death of a loved one, financial collapse, addiction, betrayal and so much more. Can I encourage you, if you've been knocked down too… Going through life's tough issues does not have to mean feeling helpless and hopeless. God is with you! Despite their circumstances, many men and women have discovered ways to not just survive their crises but actually thrive in it. If hardships are a part of our lives. Then don't you think it to be wise and put your faith into action; to be able to thrive. I've seen so many people grow stronger from the experience! No matter how devastating the crises or problem, they've used their circumstances as steppingstones to new beginnings. Getting knocked down hurts. This many times is what separates committed life changers momentum makers from average, ineffective people. “This world will always give you the opportunity to quit, but only the world would call quitting an opportunity.” -Clint Brown The point is a man is not finished when he is defeated.  He is finished when he quits! It's when you try living from your knocked down position. Nothing and nobody can keep you down unless you decide not to rise again. There are no hopeless situations, there are only men who have grown hopeless about them.   Paul said this about getting knocked down… 2 Corinthians 1:8-11 (Msg) – We don't want you in the dark, friends, about how hard it was when all this came down on us in Asia province. It was so bad we didn't think we were going to make it. We felt like we'd been sent to death row, that it was all over for us. As it turned out, it was the best thing that could have happened. Instead of trusting in our own strength or wits to get out of it, we were forced to trust God totally — not a bad idea since he's the God who raises the dead! And he did it, rescued us from certain doom. And he'll do it again, rescuing us as many times as we need rescuing. You and your prayers are part of the rescue operation—I don't want you in the dark about that either. I can see your faces even now, lifted in praise for God's deliverance of us, a rescue in which your prayers played such a crucial part.   Job 42:10(Amp) – And the Lord turned the captivity of Job and restored his fortunes, when he prayed for his friends; also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. We must understand there is your limit and then there's God's limit for you. Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they've got a second wind. God always has a way out for His children. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (Msg) – No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it. Romans 8:28 (NIV) – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Notice, “All things” means… ALL THINGS! In Good or bad circumstances When you feel weak, vulnerable, unsure or insufficient, it is not the time to panic or fear, but to trust. God does not want us to trust in our resources or ‘make our own plan' when it's time to meet a need in your life, but to rely upon His resources.   Ephesians 6:10 calls us to be STRONG in the Lord and in the Power of His Might.  His arm is mighty to save and strong to deliver. Your knock down is more than just an ordeal to endure. It can also be part of a process that leads to growth, maturity and strength for a lifetime and beyond.   Micah 7:8 - Do not rejoice against me, O my enemy, for though I fall, I will rise again! When I sit in darkness, the Lord himself will be my Light. Quote: My faith in God has nothing to do with the number of times life has knocked me down. It is based on the fact that every time I have been pushed to the ground my God has picked me back up. Psalm 37:24 - If they fall, it isn't fatal, for the Lord holds them with his hand.    

Not everyone Can be Helped Pastor George Lehman None of us are hopeless – Unless we choose not to change. (we just keep going around the same mountain) “Making a wrong decision is understandable. Refusing to search continually for learning is not” - Phil Cosby We must be learning from our failures. This sermon is about dealing with the cause more than the symptoms. If you saw a huge hole in the road and you knew bikers where heading towards it and it could injure those approaching, would you ignore it or go out of your way to put up the danger warning sign? Some people will still drive into hole. In this world, you'll meet all kinds of people with many different problems, but not everyone can be helped, or wants to be helped. In 25 years of full ministry, my greatest desires to help everyone, to see people fulfilling their God given purpose and growing into God's awesome plan for their life. But - I have learned the hard way that I cannot help every person who attends our church or those who come to me for assistance. I know God can but hear me out!!! These are the kinds of people that are so entrenched in certain behaviours and habit patterns that one cannot help them to advance to the next level - unless they make the necessary faith shift in their attitude and behaviour. They just wont change! Those who do not take responsibility for themselves. The first step toward self-improvement is to remove all excuses for being uncommitted or not doing your best. “He that is good for making EXCUSES is seldom good for anything else” 1 Corinthians 9:27 (NIV) – No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others; I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.  (So many Christians live a disqualified life) Those that continually blame and point fingers at other people for their failures will never go to the next level. People can complain about their spouses, their children, their church, their jobs, their past, where they grew up etc., (If you want a reason not to serve God as you should, you will probably find one.) The devil has a thick manual on excuses. I have learned that within every challenge is this incredible seed of a God ordained opportunity for success, which requires faith to overcome problems. 2 Peter 1:3-4 (NIV) – 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. Those who do not have a heart to seek God. We all know Jeremiah 29:11 but verse 13 says: You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Isaiah 55:6 (NIV) – Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.  (If you feel God is not near – guess who moved!!! God is not playing hide and seek with us. We hide when we stop to seek.) The Bible teaches us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”  - Proverbs 9:10. Those who do not respect God enough to seek Him in prayer and study His word, so they can make wise decisions in life - They are violating Scripture and cannot be helped either by me or any other leader or brother/sister. God said to Joshua: I'll be with you, but you have to do your part. Joshua 1:8-9 (NIV) – “8Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”  Those who do not obey what God requires for you to have success have decided to have a relationship with God on their own terms. Those who insist on having a negative outlook on life. There are some people who refuse to exercise faith in God or think positively, as the Word of God commands us to: (They would rather have their pity party, carry their grudges and hurts.) Philippians 4:8 (Msg) – Summing it all up friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious- the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. This is because some have a natural inclination to expect the worst in life, so they are never disappointed by anyone or anything! (They set themselves up for failure) This is a weird way some folks attempt to shield their emotions from the pain of disappointment; it is a very common practice with many people. Jesus often told people that they would receive according to how they believed (for example Proverbs 23:7 teaches that “as a person thinks in their heart, so they will be.” (Stop being self-defeating!) One cannot empower a person who refuses to think God's thoughts about themselves and about life. Those who refuse to have a vision for their future. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) – Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he. There are so many very able, talented, anointed and gifted people, that I have met who live their lives without any strategic plan or vision, to fulfil the very thing God has blessed them with to make a difference in His Kingdom We were not just saved from something; we were saved to something. Those who are successful have a compelling vision that drives them daily and that feeds their souls even more than the desire to satisfy their own needs! Inside of every believer is a God-given kingdom vision for their future. If a person refuses to tap into that as their guiding light—and value that vision as their barometer for success—then my continual pep talks, sermons and motivation will not do the trick either! Those whose primary agenda is individualistic and not kingdom oriented. There are many Christians whose only agenda in life is to advance their own agenda. They don't want to work with a team or flow in the context of a local church. They want others to pour their life into them, but they are rarely ever willing to pour back into the church and serve in the Kingdom of God. I have learned that those who only want to use the church or God to advance their own agenda (even if it is ministry related) have greatly limited their own lives. Thus, I back away from these people until they change. This is because we are all called to seek first God's kingdom, in which we need to die to ourselves our own agenda's, comforts and conveniences, and sacrifice and invest our time for the good of the Body of Christ. Those who lack transparency, humility and integrity. The Bible teaches us to walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7). It also teaches us to confess our faults to one another and pray for one another that we may be healed (James 5:16). Those that do not admit their faults and confess their sins cannot have the kind of relationship with God that He intended for them to have, Also, you cannot have a relationship with a mentor or a fellow Christian who want to help you with your personal growth. It is important for any leader and any member to live a transparent life with integrity with one another Those who want to progress in their spiritual lives have to learn to practice the spiritual discipline of confession of sin Proverbs 28:13(LB) – A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance. I do not believe there is anyone who willingly does not want to change and become better in their walk with God. What did you hear in this message that needs to change in your life? Lamentation 3:40 (Amp) – Let us test and examine our ways and let us return to the Lord.

To be honest with yourself By Pastor George Lehman The whole key is to be honest with yourself, find the weak spots, work on it, get it done. Reasons why being honest with ourselves is so important in our walk with God The Bible teaches us to look at our hearts and thoughts, helping us to understand who we truly are. You need to be the best you. When we are honest, we can grow and become better versions of ourselves. It's not always easy to face the truth, but it is essential for our journey of faith. 2 Peter 1:5-7 – For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 2 Peter 1:9-10(Amp) – 9For whoever lacks these qualities is blind, [spiritually] shortsighted, seeing only what is near to him, and has become oblivious [to the fact] that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10Because of this, brethren, be all the more solicitous and eager to make sure (to ratify, to strengthen, to make steadfast) your calling and election; for if you do this, you will never stumble or fall. Self-honesty is a very important thing. It unlocks for us so many things that are crucial to living a life of freedom and joy, with no need to prove ourselves. Truth be told, if we're all honest with ourselves we'd be living in a better world right now. Psalm 139:23 - “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.” To help you see the importance of being honest with ourselves, here are three things to note: “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” – Lamentations 3:40 1) Without honesty, we won't be able to repent of all sin (SIN: is defined as transgressing (oortreding) God law means crossing the line of Gods standards or failing to live up to Gods standards of holiness – Missing the Mark. 1 John 1:8 tells us, "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." Unless we stop lying to ourselves and admit our real sinful motives, we won't be able to let them go and change. Trying to escape the fact we have sinned, we lie and deceive ourselves and others. We make a show and try to paint a picture that we're good, innocent, and blameless, even when we know we're not. What we don't realize is the person we're deceiving primarily is ourselves. Galatians 6: 7-8 - “7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction” Unless we admit our sins, we won't be able to let it go. We won't be able to truly repent. 2) We have to be honest in order for God to change us 1 John 1:9 tells us that unless we admit our sins, we can never be forgiven and changed: - "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Think about that. How can we ask God to forgive us for something we won't even admit doing? How can God cleanse us from the deep-seated dirt in our hearts if we keep saying we don't have it? Ridiculous, right? If we truly want to be clean, we will need to reveal all the dirt in us. Proverbs 28:13 - “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy” And there's no reason to fear revealing ourselves to God, because His "perfect love casts out fear" 1 John 4:18 - ”We need have no fear of someone who loves us perfectly; his perfect love for us eliminates all dread of what he might do to us. If we are afraid, it is for fear of what he might do to us and shows that we are not fully convinced that he really loves us.” He knows who we are and what we have done, but instead of hating and abhorring us, He wants us cleansed and made holy, totally freed from sin. That's His commitment. Isn't our God awesome? 3) It's necessary for us to be free Lastly, self-honesty, when coupled with God's truth, will allow us to be free. The Lord Jesus said in John 8:31-32 -"If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." We must realize that our self-honesty is implied there: "If you abide in My word..." Do we really abide in God's word that says, “we should repent?” Do we obey God's word that says, "You shall not lie," even to ourselves? Do we believe God's word, which says, “He knows the inner longings of our hearts?” Precious family of God, we can't fool God. He sees through us. Before we do anything, He has already seen us doing it. “O God, You know my foolishness; and my sins are not hidden from You.”— Psalm 69:5 What's the point of trying to convince Him that we're okay and clean? We are simply lying to ourselves and to Him when we do that. Jeremiah 17:10 – “I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” For the week ahead let us make a quality, life changing decision, to be honest before the Lord. Let's just openly lay down our hearts before Him. James 4:17 - “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.” Not just being honest but doing something about it. Psalm 32:5 - “And you forgave the guilt of my sin.” When we admit our guilt, God freely forgives. God is good, and there's nothing to fear when it comes to being honest with Him.

Called to HOLINESS #4 By Pastor George Lehman Revelation 3:2-3(Amp) – 2Rouse yourselves and keep awake and strengthen and invigorate what remains and is on the point of dying; for I have not found a thing that you have done [any work of yours] meeting the requirements of My God or perfect in His sight. 3So call to mind the lessons you received and heard; continually lay them to heart and obey them, and repent. In case you will not rouse yourselves and keep awake and watch, I will come upon you like a thief, and you will not know or suspect at what hour I will come.   Those who look to Him are radiant, their faces are never covered with shame. - Psalm 34:5 (King David) RADIANT LIKE THIS: Years ago, when 20th Century Fox advertised in the New York papers to fill a vacancy in its sales force, one applicant replied: “I am at present selling furniture at the address below.  You may judge my ability as a salesman if you will stop in to see me at anytime, pretending that you are interested in buying furniture.  When you come in, you can identify me by my red hair.  And I will have no way of identifying you.  Such salesmanship as I exhibit during your visit, therefore, will be no more than my usual workday approach and not a special effort to impress a prospective employer.” From among more than 1500 applicants, this guy got the job. ARE YOU READY?  We have been called to a life of Holiness everyday because you never know who is watching you. And know this God is watching all the time!! Ephesians 1:4 (NIV) - “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love   2 Timothy 1:9 (NIV) - “He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,   And still after 3 sermons on “Called to holiness”, God continues to challenge our relationship with Him. It's so clear that these scriptures tell us what God has saved and called us too!!  - they are not optional.  “Holiness” is not for an elite few. It is possible for you to walk purely before the Lord. Luke 12:32 – Do not be seized with alarm and struck with fear, little flock, for it is your FATHER'S good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. For each generation a “little flock” receives the Kingdom – and are set apart. They go on to fulfill the purpose by God for their generation. Question to us: What about you, child of God – how would you sum up your lifestyle for adding value to this generation – letting His Kingdom come? Everyone who is purifying themselves, even as He is pure, is part of that “little flock”. 1 John 3:3 (Amp) – And everyone who has this hope (resting) on him, cleanses (purifies) himself, just as He is pure (chaste, undefiled, guiltless). No bible believing Christian doubts the importance of Holiness. 2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV) – Since we have these promises dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that Contaminates* body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. *Contaminate = pollute, infect [Afrikaans = besoedel, besmet) Like sewage in clear drinking water.   1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 - 23May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. God's desire is for us to be wholly Holy.    The Bible commands us to be Holy (not suggests). Leviticus 19:2 (Amp) – “Say to all the assembly of the Israelites; [Bikers church]  you shall be Holy for I the Lord your God am Holy”   1 John 4:17 – As He is, so are we in this world   1 Peter 2:9(CEV) – But you are God's chosen and special people. You are a group of royal priests and a holy nation; God has brought you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Now you must tell all the wonderful things He has done. Story of the young boy who had to stay in class and finish his math test.  So, he just filled in any answers – obviously it was all wrong.  He had to do it at home.  When his dad asked him why he got it all wrong – he said, “nobody is perfect”. Like the bumper stickers even say “Christians aren't perfect, just forgiven” – OR “we're just human” (we all make mistakes, we all fail). Taking it, a bit further super spiritual people quote 1 John 1:8 – If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth. This sums up so many times why people reject their “Calling to Holiness.” They make excuses to fail and sin. Is Holiness really that important, maybe it's only for a select few. Matthew 24:4 (Amp) – Be careful that no one misleads you (deceiving you and leading you into error). Five times in the next 22 verses in Mt 24: Jesus repeated His warning. Can I just say this: It's not the absence of sin that produces Holiness. Many non-Christians live clean, upright lives – which you can't fault.  Holiness comes from the presence of God in our lives.                                            “Christ in us is our Holiness”. The truth is – as close as our relationship is with Him, to that same degree we reflect His Holiness. Jesus said:  Matthew 5:16 – Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works. This light is non-other than the out-raying glory and purity of God.  People see God in us. If good works glorify God, then bad works bring Him dishonor. When we're not walking in “Holiness”, sin rules our lives and our credibility to witness is LOST. The world is sick and tired of hearing one thing and seeing another. How do I know when to witness: 1 Peter 3:15(Amp) - “Called to Holiness” – But in your hearts set Christ apart as Holy (and acknowledge Him as Lord) (when I get this part right then part B follows) Always be ready to give a logical defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you. Sadly, so many Christians publicly sin in the workplace where most of us spend 8-18 hours a day.  They lose their temper, do bad work, they're often late or heard complaining about the boss or their job.  They have bad attitudes, yet they still witness. Titus 1:16A (Amp) – They profess to know God (to recognize, perceived and be acquainted with Him) but they deny and disown and renounce Him, by what they do. This to sums up this series “Called to Holiness” – the real evidence [bewys] of Holiness is increasing in “Christ likeness” in which the image of God is increasingly visible in a believer's life. Here's the challenge - what are you going to do about living your “Calling to Holiness? CLOSE: 1 Peter 1:15 (Amp) – But as the One who called you is Holy, you yourselves must also be Holy in all your conduct and manner of living. Luke 1:74-75(Amp) – 74To grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our foes, might serve Him fearlessly 75in holiness (divine consecration) and righteousness [in accordance with the everlasting principles of right] within His presence all the days of our lives. Your lifestyle MUST clearly be HOLY!  

Called to HOLINESS #2 We must seek a level of holiness that brings the Glory of God into our lives. Discuss what is Holiness: Holiness is not: Being perfect, never sinning, never being tempted to sin its: To be different Set apart To fulfill His purpose To live our lives in a way that reflects God's glory John 1:14(Amp) – And the word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honour, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favour, loving-kindness) and truth.   Ephesians 1:4 (NIV) - For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love    Glory of God is prioritizing His honor, beauty, and magnificence above all else in your life. It involves aligning your actions, words, and thoughts with His will and purpose, ultimately reflecting His character and demonstrating His love and power to the world. It means choosing to glorify Goid in all you do, rather than seeking personal glory or recognition. This might involve saying no to opportunities that would bring you praise but not glorify God.   John 5:44 - How is it possible for you to believe [how can you learn to believe], you who [are content to seek and] receive praise and honor and glory from one another, and yet do not seek the praise and honor and glory which come from Him Who alone is God? This is a Crossroad scripture - Start good, end bad   Galatians 3:2-3 - “I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?   For so many Christians: They display a spirituality to impress man – compromising your values and principles to fit in with the ungodly. Seeking honor and recognition from others – wanting validation from man. Living to appear righteous As long as you are being patted, recognized, praised and fussed about and the honor and glory is flowing then… you are a happy Christian. Can one honestly say you are walking near to God when your motivation is the praise of man?   Here's a clear sign: We know we are relating correctly to God when our hunger for His glory makes us forsake the praise of man. Greek for Glory is “Doxa”:  Glory is: to please – to be of a good reputation – to give honor – full of grace – love – kindness and truth Hebrew for Glory is “Kavod”.  To show much splendor [prag, praal]. “A life of Holiness” is seeking to please God and seek His Glory.    John 5:44 – how is it possible for you to believe, when you thrive on being recognized and praised by one another. Jesus said it – Luke 16:15 -“He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God's sight. Who are you really trying to impress? When we truly desire a life of holiness – seeking God, no one will have to tell us to be humble, to convince us of our old natures – Colossians 3:2-7 - 2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. 3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 And when Christ, who is your[a] life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don't be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world.   Holiness comes from seeking His Glory - here's the promise:   If you take time to meet with God, you will meet Him Jeremiah 29:13 (Amp) - “Then you will seek me, enquire for, and require me (as a vital necessity) and find me when you search for me with all your heart.” Psalm 27:8(Amp) – you have said, seek my face (enquire for and require my presence as your vital need) my heart says to you your face (your presence) Lord will I seek. As you touch Him, something will come alive in you.  Your life will become significant. You'll become effective in all you do and say. People will be drawn to Jesus because of you. We are talking about “Called to Holiness”. The sad thing is many Christians have NO higher goal, NO greater aspiration than to live a normal in-effective, fairly boring Christian life. 1 Corinthians 3:3 – Paul rebuked the church in Corinth because they walked “LIKE mere man”. (A holy life is a set apart life) He asks – where is the holiness – difference?. Listen – God has so much more for us than just becoming better people. Romans 8:11 – He wants to flood our lives with the same power that raised Christ from the dead. If we are going to be Holy, we must break away from desiring just an average life. We must seek a level of Holiness that brings the Glory of God into our lives. Jonathan Edwards – 18th century revivalist: ”Grace is but glory begun, and glory is but grace perfected.” The means to holiness is grace.  Holiness is a product of grace. You may be thinking, I'll never achieve this teaching in my condition.  Then you have only heard half the message. Grace is in the heart of all Gods' truth.  Truth without grace is only half-true. John 1:17 - Grace and truth are in JESUS. For while the law was given through Moses, grace (unearned, undeserved favor and spiritual blessing) and truth came through Jesus Christ. What God's truth demands, His grace will provide. Romans 6:22 – But now since you have been set free from sin and have become the slaves of God, you have your present reward in Holiness and its end is eternal life. “Holiness is a lifestyle” Seeking to walk close to the Glory of God.  Holiness is doing all within one's power to become more like Jesus. 2 Corinthians 3:18(Amp) – And all of us, as with unveiled face [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from on degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.  

Called to HOLINESS #1 This is not a clever chosen topic, it's a God calling for every Christian. By Pastor George Lehman ”A man is what he appears in God's eyes, and not the slightest bit more.” We can outwardly put on an OSCAR award performance. But God knows. For us to see Jesus active and alive in our lives and our ministry “Holiness must be our lifestyle.”   Romans 11:36 (Amp) – For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.(For all things originate with Him and come from Him; all things live through Him and all things center in and tend to consummate and to end in Him] To Him be glory forever! Amen (so be it).   Romans 12:1 (Amp) – I APPEAL to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your seasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. I don't believe God is going to do a new thing. (Isaiah 43) I read this prophetic word that went out some time ago ! Explain: God sitting as a judge in a Court room, banging with His gavel saying: “Order in My House” Order comes when we put things back the way they were or where they are supposed to be. Jeremiah 6:16 This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads* and look; ask where the good old way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”  Crossroads = is a place of decision-making. We all want new Revelations, new interesting facts and new understanding As God's church we have chased after New Things. And been disobedient to the Old Things. We have sadly allowed the basic old way to slip by and therefore our foundation has crumbled. We've become educated beyond our obedience. (We know more than what we are obedient to.) The New Converts pick up the bad habits of the old people. God wants us to have “Revival.” Revival is to bring back an active life that was once in our hearts and lifestyle. Isaiah 66:1-2 - “This is what the Lord says: “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that? Could you build me such a resting place? 2 My hands have made both heaven and earth; they and everything in them are mine. I, the Lord, have spoken! “I will bless those who have humble and contrite*(Berouvolle) hearts, who tremble at my word. Hosea 10:12 - “It's time to Sow Righteousness, its time to break up your unplowed ground, for its time to seek the Lord. Make a choice to Plow up That hardened heart, that disobedient lifestyle, that half hearted commitment. God is calling His children to a “A life of Holiness”   Holiness is not: A once off experience, a Feeling or an emotion or an optional extra. It's a direct result of a Jesus filled heart. A life of Holiness without Jesus in your heart is not possible.   1 Peter 1:15-16 (Amp) - 15“But as the One who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all your conduct and manner of living.” 16“For it is written You shall be holy for I AM holy.”   Leviticus 11:44 – “I Am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I Am holy….” Holiness: Greek word used Hagiasmos and means: Sanctify – Purity – clean – to be different (dedicated to God's purpose- Set apart.) 2 Corinthians 5:17 (Amp) -Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come! Jesus prayed this for us in John 17:15-19 - “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. 17 Sanctify them by[a] the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. 19 For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.   Can I just say this? The holiness we are seeking goes much deeper than merely cleaning the outside of the cup. (Luke 11:39) we whitewash but God washes white. True holiness does not come from following rules – (so many Christians make up their own set of rules about Holiness what's right of wrong in their own minds – what God's word says is not to important.) Holiness comes from following Jesus Christ Being different being like Jesus John 3:30 - “He must increase, but I must decrease. [He must grow more prominent; I must grow less so.] Galatians 5:25 (Msg) - Since this is the kind of life we have chosen the life of the spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. This must be our Goal – our aim and our Determination. If your goals are less than Christ likeness If you are happy and content with yourself This word on Holiness will pass right over you. Isaiah 66:2 - This is the man to whom I will look and have regarded him who is Humble.   HUMILITY PRECEDES HOLINESS!!!   Allen Bond - “The bigger I grow in God, the smaller I become.” A holy man is a humble man. Why discuss Humility, while on the subject of Holiness? Simply because holiness is the product of grace and God gives grace only to the Humble. Jesus said: Matthew 11:29 - “Learn of me. I am gentle (meek) and humble in heart.”   The holiest, most powerful voice that ever spoke described Himself as: Gentle, Meek, and Humble in heart. It's important we understand, Jesus did not condemn sinners.  He condemned hypocrites. A hypocrite is a person who excuses his own sin while condemning the sins of another. No one can remain a hypocrite and find Holiness at the same time. That's why everyday the first step we take to Sanctification* (to be: Pure, clean, different, set apart and dedicated to His purpose.) Is admitting we are not as Holy as what we would like to appear. This 1st step is called Humility 1 Peter 5:5 (LB) - God gives special blessings to those who are humble but sets Himself against those who are Proud. Pride is the only a disease known to man that makes everyone sick except the one who has it. It's at the crossroad*(Place of decision) that: Holy men and Hypocrites are Bred. Those who choose Holiness see their need: Repent, change and pay the price, make the adjustments and “Run to win” Those who choose to be Hypocrites see their sin, excuse it and remain unchanged. A life of Holiness Begins with our determined refusal to hide from the condition of our hearts It will call for deep, serious honesty – everyday. So many Christians want to live double lives: Holy when it's convenient. Unholy when it's inconvenient. The very sad part of all this is: so many think it's okay! Think about this: Hebrews 12:14 - Strive to live in peace with everybody and pursue that consecration and Holiness, without which no one will (ever) see the Lord.   “ORDER IN MY HOUSE.” “What kind of house will you build for ME?” asks God A half-hearted attempt is a wholehearted failure! A man is what he appears in God's eyes, and not the slightest bit more.  

Passion for the church. Far too many Christians take coming to church far to lightly By Pastor George Lehman   The most expensive piece of furniture in the church is the empty seat. We are not in the seat filling business; we are in the heart changing business. When the heart truly changes the seats will be filled. After a bad sermon a pastor was asked what went wrong.  His answer was really good.  He said, “Poor preaching is God's judgment on a prayerless congregation.” You were formed for a family.  From the beginning of time, God has always wanted a family. A family that will last for all eternity. From Geneses to Revelation it's all about God and His family Hebrews 2:11 (Jerusalem bible) - Jesus and the people He makes holy all belong to the same family.  That's why He isn't ashamed to call them His brothers and sisters. NB! We were not just called to believe.  We're called to belong.  To belong to the family of God. John 1:12 (Amp) - But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the authority (power, privilege, right) to become the children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name. Hebrews 2:10 (NCV) - God is the One who made all things, and all things are for His glory.  He wanted to have many children to share his glory.   1 John 3:1 (NLT) - See how very much our heavenly Father loves us, for He allows us to be called His children, and we really are!   Paul says: 1 Timothy 3:15 (GWT) - God's family is the Church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. A building without a support and foundation will collapse.  In the same way we need people, a family, for support to help us in our walk with God. That's why we need a place of fellowship. Living in the ‘real world' it is so important to establish yourself on a solid foundation.  Surrounding yourself with Christian friends, mentors and make attending church a habit and priority. As a family we all need each other. The church is a body, not a business.  A family, not an institution. Ephesians 4:16 (Amp) - For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love. The more you grow in your faith in God the more you're going to love and treasure the church.  Taking up your full responsibility in the church. When people grow weary, drift and become lukewarm first to go is your church attendance. Sadly, there are people who say to Jesus, “We love you” but we don't “love your body”.  I accept you, but I reject your body. We do this whenever we develop the ‘triple C' [criticize, complain & condemn] towards the church. Except for a few important exceptions referring to all believers throughout history almost every time the word “CHURCH” is used in the bible it refers to a local, visible congregation of Believers. A Christian without a church home is like: An organ without a body. A sheep without a flock. A child without a family. Ephesians 2:19b - You belong in God's household with every other Christian. There are some whose faith is not strong enough to bring them to church services, - but they expect it to take them to heaven. The difference between being a church attendee and a church member is commitment.  Attendees are spectators.  Members get involved in the ministry. If you're looking for the perfect church when you join it, it won't be perfect anymore!  We are called to - love imperfect people. Psalm 133:1 (TEV) - How wonderful it is, how pleasant for God's people to live together in harmony! Verse3 says: There God commands a blessing. Ask yourself:  Do you build or break harmony in the church? Are you an asset or a liability? Are you a momentum-maker or a momentum- breaker Real fellowship means:  Being as committed to each other as we are to Jesus. 1 John 3:16 (LB) - We know what real love is from Christ's example in dying for us.  And so, we also ought to lay down our lives for our Christian brothers. Giving yourself, putting others first, being the least, promoting peace, harmony and unity isn't easy.  But God asks us to do it because He first did it. When there are plenty of oxen in a stable, there will always be a common factor – manure. Proverbs 14:4 (NLT) – Without oxen the stable stays clean but  you need a strong ox for a large harvest. If there's only manure, then obviously something is wrong.   Here's a measuring stick: Philippians 2:3-4 (NCV) - Give more honor to others than to yourselves.  Do not be interested only in your own life but be interested in the lives of others. It's not about thinking less of yourself.  It's about thinking of yourself less.   Romans 12:10 (GWT) - Be devoted to each other like a loving family.  Excel in showing respect for each others.   Romans 12:16 (NLT) - Live in harmony with each other.  Don't try to act important but enjoy the company of ordinary people and don't think you know it all. 2 Corinthians 12:20 (Amp) - For I am fearful that somehow or other I may come and find you not as I desire to find you and that you may find me too not as you want to find me: - that perhaps there may be factions (quarreling), jealousy, temper (wrath, intrigues, rivalry, divided loyalties), selfishness, whispering, gossip, arrogance (self-assertion) and disorder among you. If you proclaim to be a child of God, you're part of the body of Christ.  And as a part of the body you have a responsibility to promote unity and harmony. Colossians 3:14 (LB) - Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony. Question: How passionate are you to ensure and promote unity in the church? What did you ‘hear' in this sermon?  The Bible says, “let him who has ears (spiritual ears) let him hear what the Spirit is saying”. What are you going to do with what you have just heard?  You CANNOT remain ‘neutral'.  

In the case of a will, it is necessary to prove the death of the one who made it, Hebrews 9:16 (NIV)

Faith 4? Pastor Kobus Massyn 13-4-2025  'Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.'- 1 Corinthians 13:13  Faith for What? Greater things!   “I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. ‘ John 14:12 'These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages. They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won't hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed.” -  Mark 16:17-18 Faith for What? Hope   'I asked you to come here today so we could get acquainted and so I could explain to you that I am bound with this chain because I believe that the hope of Israel—the Messiah—has already come.” They replied, “We have had no letters from Judea or reports against you from anyone who has come here. But we want to hear what you believe, for the only thing we know about this movement is that it is denounced everywhere.” - Acts 28:20-22   Faith for How? Love   'So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” - John 13:34-35   'We love each other because he loved us first. - 1 John 4:19 ' “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. - Matthew 6:14 Faith for When? The Cross Luke 22:3,21,24,31-33,47-48,61-62 - 3Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve disciples,   21“But here at this table, sitting among us as a friend, is the man who will betray me.   24Then they began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them.   31“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.” 33Peter said, “Lord, I am ready to go to prison with you, and even to die with you.”   47But even as Jesus said this, a crowd approached, led by Judas, one of the twelve disciples. Judas walked over to Jesus to greet him with a kiss. 48But Jesus said, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”   61At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord's words flashed through Peter's mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 62And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly. '

FAITH three Fight the good fight of the Faith – 1 Timothy 6:12. Note it's not, fight the good fight against the devil, or your opposition.  NO.  You see when FAITH wins everything wins. Fight: The Opportunity of succeeding by great effort. Many Christians want to succeed by NO EFFORT or little effort. “The devils' number 1 tool is not an active sinner, but an inactive Christian. English proverb: “The devil tempts some, but an idle man tempts the devil.”   Matthew 12:43-45 (Amp) – 43But when the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, it roams through dry [arid] places in search of rest, but it does not find any. 44Then it says, I will go back to my house from which I came out. And when it arrives, it finds the place unoccupied, swept, put in order and decorated. 45Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked then itself. “Be sure to keep busy doing what's right, so that the devil may always find you occupied.” We are weakest when we try to get something for nothing, taking shortcuts to success. Trying to live an overcoming life without faith. Why are we at our weakest?  Because there is no strength or growth in nothing or in shortcuts.  We're not in a motorboat; we're in a rowing boat!! It takes a committed Faith that works. Proverbs 28:19 (LB) – “Hard work brings prosperity; playing around brings poverty.” There is no shortcut to a faith-filled life. Here's another aspect with extreme importance: Prayer is very important - but hear me out now…! My experience is, so many Christians think after praying, ALL will be okay – now I have done my share – it's over to you God. Example - looking for work: Send out a CV, get a newspaper and look at the job column. After you've prayed, Begin to speak faith WORDS over your situation, speak the promises speak life. Prayer should never be an excuse for inaction.  As God said to Moses as they came out of Egypt: Exodus 14:15 (LB) - Then the Lord said to Moses, “Quit praying and get the people moving.  Forward march!” It's time for faith in action!! “A faith that works” The fact is most prayers are only going to be answered when you attach action to them. Israel with Joshua – around the walls of Jericho.  God said not to speak.  Why?  They would have spoken faithless, negative words. NB: Prayer is the fuel; Faith is the engine.  Real faith – the Bible kind of strong faith we must fight for. Hear me!!  It takes more than good intentions.  (People judge us by our actions not our intentions.) It's not what we say we want to accomplish for Jesus, BUT what we actually do. James 2:17 – Faith without actions is dead.  Your life will shrink or expand in proportion to your Faith. We live by Faith, or; We don't live at all – our faith is NOT a WISHBONE, it's a BACKBONE. Our “Faith” cannot be hidden.  It has to be obvious, open, effective and producing: Change in us Change in a lost world And it will always be an encouragement to the church (ARE YOU a FAITH INSPIRING person?) Here is a wonderful example 1 Thessalonians 1:3 (LB) - We never forget your loving deeds (ACTIONS) as we talk to our God and Father about you, and your strong “Faith” and steady looking forward to the return of our Lord Jesus. Fruit of faith is:  Determination, hard work, endurance, steadfastness, perseverance. Real faith may get knocked down, but it's never ever knocked out. 1 Thessalonians 1:8 (LB) - And now the word of the Lord has spread out from you to others everywhere, far beyond your boundaries, for wherever we go we find people telling us about your remarkable “Faith” in God. Question:  What do people say about your Faith SO!!!  Why all this talk about faith?  Is it really all that important? Just remember, you decide, Hebrews 11:6 - Without FAITH it's IMPOSSIBLE to please GOD Listen to Jesus' own Words: Luke 18:8b – However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find (persistence*) in faith on the earth. *Persistence: Continue firmly in one's action despite persuasion. Matthew 24:10 (NIV) – At that time many will turn away from the faith and betray and hate each other. Our whole life is encapsulated (ingekapsuleer) in FAITH. Habakkuk 2:4 is repeated in Romans 1:17 – The just shall live by faith. We tend to look at the big outer signs of Jesus' coming. Aids, tsunamis, earthquakes, wars etc. It's about time we start looking at the signs closer to home – the man in the mirror.  How is your faith?  Is it just talk or is it alive and active, full of passion and enthusiasm? 1 Timothy 4:1a (Amp) – But the (Holy) Spirit distinctly and expressly declares that in latter times some will turn from the Faith, giving attention to deluding(Mislei) and seducing spirits and doctrines that demons teach. Christians are going to be challenged to turn away from the real faith to a counterfeit.  This warning is for the church NOT the unsaved world. Here's the answer to stay in a good faith fighting spirit: 1 Corinthians 16:13a – Be alert and on your guard; stand firm in your faith.   2 Corinthians 13:5 (Amp) – “Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it. Test and prove yourselves [not Christ]. Do you not yourselves realize and know [thoroughly by an ever-increasing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you-unless you are [counterfeits] disapproved on trial and rejected.”   examine and 2.test and 3.evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your Faith and showing the proper fruits of it.   Here's my heart's desire for each of us: Close: Ephesians 3:16-18 (Amp) – “16May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. 17May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love. 18That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God's devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it].   Revelation 14:12 (Amp) – Here [comes in a call for] the steadfastness of the saints [the patience, the endurance of the people of God], those who [habitually] keep God's commandments and [their] faith in Jesus.  

  FAITH #2 (Everyone needs a FAITH-Lift.)   We trust God that with His Sword He will cut and do surgery on us – to give us a faith-lift – to remove that which is old and not so pretty anymore. Our key scripture Hebrews 11:6 - “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”   Hebrews 11:3 (NIV) – By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what is visible. 1 Peter 1:3-8 -  3“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, Oswald Chambers wrote in “My utmost for His Highest”: Before I can say “I saw the Lord” there must be something in my character that conforms to the likeness of God.  What we need is God's surgical procedure – His use of external circumstance to bring about internal purification.   Our Faith can re-write our future (allow Him to give you a Faith-lift) Regret looks back – past possessed. Worry looks around – seed among the thorns, Chokes your Faith. FAITH looks UP. Here's the promise – plus side of: Hebrews 11:6a – with faith we can please God (WHY) Hebrews 11:6b – He is a rewarder of those who *earnestly and *diligently seek Him. * Earnestly = showing intense feeling *Diligently = hard-working, showing effort Prophetic word God is calling for “Order in my house Hebrews 6:11-12 (Amp). The Challenge “But we do [strongly and earnestly] desire for each of you to show the same diligence and sincerity [all the way through] in realizing and enjoying the full assurance and development of [your] hope until the end, 12 In order that you may not grow disinterested and become [spiritual] sluggards, but imitators, behaving as do those who through faith ([b]by their leaning of the entire personality on God in Christ in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness) and by practice of patient endurance and waiting are [now] inheriting the promises. You must first be a believer if you want to be an achiever. Without a “Faith”- driven life you will become disinterested, and a spiritual *sluggard. *sluggard = lazy person “Faith” is action – never a “passive” [not active] attitude. “Faith” is not a pill you take, but a muscle you use. You see – faith is when your hands, your heart and feet keep on working, when your head and others say it can't be done, that the situation has become too BIG for me to handle. The ones who get anything significant of eternal value done for God are: Faith-filled, Faith-focused, Real faith will refuse to see anything that is contrary (opposite) to the Bible.  It doesn't look at circumstances or conditions, but it looks at the promises. We must be moved by the “Word of God” not our feelings. 2 Corinthians 5:7 – We walk by faith and NOT by feelings Smith Wigglesworth said: “I'm not moved by what I feel.  I'm not moved by what I see. I am only moved by what I believe.” You must remember, when Adam and Eve fell, their emotions fell too. Romans 14:23b – whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Ever since that day, man kinds' of emotions have been: Inconsistent, Misleading, and Often plain WRONG Do you know what I'm talking about? One minute you'll feel happy. The next minute sad. One minute calm. The next you're steaming angry. One minute radically saved – the next not sure if you are a Christian. Imagine a world in which all of our decisions were based on our feelings.  Life run on emotions would be chaos!!  That's why we don't feel the Holy Spirit – we sense Him.  The difference between a born-again child of God and an unsaved person is  - the One lives by faith, while the world runs on emotion.  That's what they should be seeing in US - active faith. The good news is the more we walk in faith, the more our feelings start lining up with faith. Ralph Wald Emerson said: “All I have seen teaches me to trust the creator for all I have not seen.” Here's a stern warning: Hebrews 3:9 – Where your fathers tried (My patience) and tested (My forbearance) (tolerance) and found I stood their test, and they saw My works for 40 years. Their faith-less life caused them to be “skape met bokneigings”. Sheep with Goat attitudes Many times, we know and believe God has come through for us and still we chose to be “faithless”, negative, ungodly and disobedient and long to go back to the Egypt ways. The real reason why Israel missed the promised land and God's best for them.  Only a faith-filled Joshua generation went in. Romans 11:19-21 - 19They were pruned (broken) off so that we might be grafted in. 20That is true.  But they were broken (pruned) off because of their unbelief (their lack of real faith), and you are established through Faith (because you believe).  So do not become proud and conceited but rather stand in awe and be reverently afraid. 21For if God did not spare the natural branches (because of unbelief), neither will He spare you (if you are guilty of the same offense). James 2:14 (Msg) -Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything?  Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really, has it? (No!) In closing: How is your faith walk?  Is your “Faith” showing itself through your daily actions? - o O o -

FAITH By Pastor George Lehman It must be important because without faith we cannot please God! Our FAITH will never rise above the words of our lips. How many times do we speak defeat or negative over our lives. When last did you experience God's nearness, have real intimacy with Him?  Tears fill your eyes as you meditate on Him – when last? What is coming out of your heart – is it faith statements? Without it we cannot please God. Without it we can't protect ourselves either. Ephesians 6:16 – Lift up over all the (covering shield of Faith upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked (one). When you leave an opening, the arrow comes in and the results come out of your mouth. Without it a victorious, successful, overcoming, devil chasing fulfilled life will not be possible. If the disciples who, saw Jesus, touched Jesus, walked with Jesus and experienced all the wonders and miracles - if they had to be spoken to so sternly about their faith, what about you and I? Mark 16:14 (Amp) - “Afterward He appeared to the Eleven [apostles themselves] as they reclined at table; and He reproved and reproached them for their unbelief (their lack of faith) and their hardness of heart, because they had refused to believe those who had seen Him and looked at Him attentively after He had risen [[d]from death].” Hebrews 11:6 (Amp) – But without FAITH, it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him.  For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him (out). Notice the condition in this verse. It does not say that God is the rewarder of everyone but "of those who diligently seek Him." Living faith is direct; it has its foundation in diligently, actively, consistently, and zealously seeking Him in study and prayer and in conforming to His will. If God demands we have faith when it's impossible for us to have faith, then you and I have every right to question and challenge God and His Word. But, if God has placed within our ability and means, and our choice that faith can be produced, and He did, then the responsibility rests with us, whether we have FAITH or not. Luke 22:31-32  -“31 Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to *sift all of you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” *Sifting: To see what's really in you Peter If we don't have faith or we don't exercise the faith we have, it's not God's fault – it's our fault. Romans 12:3 – God has given us a measure of FAITH. Going back to the day you received salvation – none of us could ever have been saved if it wasn't for our FAITH. Rom 10:8-9, 10 , 13, 17 Romans 10: 8-10 - “8But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,”[d] that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. What 3 steps does a person take to receive salvation: (Let me just say this – they are all faith in action steps) Confess Believe Receive For whom is it available?  Verse 13 says  for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”  So where did all this FAITH come from to confess, believe and receive? Verse 17:  Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. – by hearing and believing the WORD of God. Titus 1:1 – Paul, a bond servant of God and an apostle (a special messenger) of Jesus Christ (the Messiah) to *stimulate and *promote the FAITH of God's chosen ones and to lead them on to accurate discernment (onderskei) and recognition of and acquaintance with the “Truth” which belongs to and harmonizes with and tends to godliness. *Stimulate = live with excitement *Promote = advance, to a higher position Paul says “Our faith is foundational to accurate living to walk in the TRUTH.  The result will be Godliness or a lifestyle of Holiness. We proclaim we believe but when the “Tire hits the tar”, we seldom mix the Word or our belief with “FAITH”. You see – mere belief is not “FAITH” - even when a man believes in the right God, he might still be “faithless”.   Jack Coe, Jr said: “A person can believe that the true God of the Bible exists until you are blue in the face, BUT, until that belief leads to  Works (Deeds) of OBEDIENCE and TRUST, it's far from biblical FAITH”   The Bible drives this point home: James 2:19 – You believe that there is one God.  You do well.  Even the demons believe and tremble. James 2:17 – So also, faith, if it does not have WORKS (deeds and actions of obedience to back it up), by itself is destitute of power (inoperative, dead). James 2:26 (Msg) – The very moment you separate body and spirit; you end up with a corpse.  Separate Faith and Works and you get the same thing – a corpse. Maybe that's why some of you are experiencing a dead kind of relationship with God? What is FAITH Hebrews 11:1 (LB) – What is faith? It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead. Children of God, it's high time we start living like FAITH people;  like Jesus is alive in 2025. We can say we know God's Word is right and good and true, but unless we act on the Word by faith, be obedient and reap its results, we will never really know and be victorious or obedient over comers. FAITH in God is simply faith in His WORD. To sum up: Romans 10:17 – FAITH comes by hearing and by hearing the WORD of God. One of the major benefits of reading the Bible, “Gods Word”, is that it teaches us how to respond in FAITH in advance to life's challenges: Dig a well before you are thirsty. Plant a seed before you are hungry. Don't wait until your whole life is turned upside down, to then try make out which way is up. When fear comes, expect the opposite – let FAITH rise up inside you. When symptoms attack your body – expect the opposite.  Have FAITH in God's healing power to touch you. When lack comes in – expect the opposite.  Have FAITH in God's provision to meet your needs – Philippians 4:19 - And it is he who will supply all your needs from his riches in glory because of what Christ Jesus has done for us. When confusion comes, expect the opposite.  FAITH in God's wisdom, peace and comfort. 2 Corinthians 5:7 – We Walk by FAITH and not (feelings) or sight. Poem: Doubt sees the obstacles (FAITH sees the way) Doubt sees the darkest night (FAITH sees the day) Doubt dreads taking a step (FAITH soars on high) Doubt questions: “Who believes?” FAITH answers: “I” We can't just pray for more faith. We must do what the Word teaches us Romans 10:17 – Faith comes by hearing and by hearing the Word of God.  

True faith must show character. By Pastor George Lehman   2 Timothy 3:16 (Amp) - Every Scripture is God breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought purpose and action.)  Ephesians 4:23-24 (Msg)- A life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces His character in us.  Acts 17:11 (NIV) – Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 1 Thessalonian 1:3 (AMP) – Recalling unceasingly before our God and Father your work energized by faith and service motivated by love and unwavering hope in [the return of] our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). 1 Thessalonian 1:8 (AMP) –  For not only has the Word concerning and from the Lord resounded forth from you unmistakably in Macedonia and Achaia, but everywhere the report has gone forth of your faith in God [of your leaning of your whole personality on Him in complete trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness]. So we [find that we] never need to tell people anything [further about it]. James 1:26-27 (LB) – 26 Anyone who says he is a Christian but doesn't control his sharp tongue* is just fooling himself, and his religion isn't worth much. 27 The Christian who is pure and without fault, from God the Father's point of view, is the one who takes care of orphans and widows, and who remains true to the Lord—not soiled and dirtied by his contacts with the world. *What's in you comes out of you. A sharp tongue: Destructive power of words, causing harm and division, gossip and lies.   There is so much counterfeit Christianity in our day and age. James said, “If anyone among you thinks he is religious”. Many people consider themselves religious. So many think they can go through the bible picking and choosing commands they want to obey. Then believe they are good religious people.  People don't change because they believe they are okay. Credibility in the Christian's life involves knowing Christ and sowing consistency of lifestyle. A genuine Christian character is evident in three ways: By our conversation Our concern and Our conduct The evidence of our conversation. James said: “Those who consider themselves religious but don't control their tongue” are deceiving themselves and their religion is useless - James 1:26. In short, it's just an empty show and will have zero kingdom effect on anyone. The word deceived can also mean ‘cheat'. People who can't control what comes out their mouth… …whether it is filthy language or *gossip or *slander or lies or whatever, are only cheating themselves in the process. *Gossip[skinder] =idle talk or rumour about a person behind their back. *Slander [laster] = malicious, false, defamatory to cause hurt. The only one that loses is you! Our character is often revealed in our conversation before anyone has a chance to observe our conduct.  You'll know what will follow that mouth. Our behaviour will always match our speech. James says, “Control your tongue”. The evidence of our concern. True faith is demonstrated by our character and our character is evident in what concerns us. What concerns us must be what concerns God. James 1:27a (NIV) – Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this:  to look after orphans and widows in their distress… Clearly God is concerned about the orphans and the widows. The things we are concerned about reveal our true character. As Christians we are to show mercy and kindness to people in such need. Especially to those who can never repay the help. Keep in mind what Paul told Timothy: 1 Timothy 5:3-4 & 8-9 (NIV) – 3Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. 4But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. 8If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 9No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband After all, a true sign of Christian character is a genuine concern for anyone in need. “To add value to others, one must first value others”. -Maxwell It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.  If God can get it through you, He'll get it to you. The evidence of our conduct. We get this right – our conversation and concerns will be right. James completed this initial chapter with a firm warning to us to keep “unpolluted from the world”. James 1:27 The tragedy is that this world system has polluted many who are called by His name. Paul warned the church because he saw the pollution taking hold of the church. 2 Corinthians 11:3 (NLT) – But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. How many of you have seen in a department store – there's a table with all sorts of odds and ends – skirts, dresses, shorts, sweaters piled up on it. The big sign above it reads: “Slightly soiled…greatly reduced in price.” Just let those words penetrate your heart when you think of them. Slightly soiled Greatly reduced in price How many Christians have had those words written across their lives… …because of their inconsistent and ungodly conduct.  People ‘de-value' themselves. The truth is, if you allow your life to become spotted and stained by sin….… you lose much of the value of your Christian witness. When James challenged us to keep unspotted or unpolluted from the world… …it was not a calling to become a monk and isolate yourself. James was talking about insulation, not isolation. Jesus prayed this over us: John 17:14 (NIV) – I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. Jesus left us an example… in the world but not of the world. We are to take His glorious, good news, the gospel, into a dying world. Letting our character shine brightly and credibly as we insulate ourselves from the world's influence. First by knowing Christ, then by sowing consistency in our lives and finally by showing godly character in our conversations, our concerns and our conduct. The world is watching and waiting to see credibility. 2 Corinthians 8:21 – For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.  

The ethical* /[gedragsnorme] effect By Pastor George Lehman   Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man a more clever devil. C.S. Lewis Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.  - Aristotle The revelation must become the application. Ethical =Relating to beliefs about what is moral or principles of right and wrong. A positive or negative impact on decisions we make (our behavior values) Unethical = unprincipled, dishonorable, corrupt James 2:14-26 (NIV) – 14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.  18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”  Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. 20 You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God's friend. 24 You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone. 25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. We regularly, in the news, hear reports of some or other effect - the effect of global warming, the effect on the world economy and the effect of poverty. The church faces its own effect that can be called the “ethical effect” (principles of right and wrong) or……as James puts it, “A faith without fruit”. As the world watches, too many Christians profess one thing but practice another. A counterfeit faith produces no genuine fruit. The result is, the church has little influence on the world today, even while we are proclaiming our faith. While so many places and in so many ways, the church is losing its voice as the culture suffers from this ethical effect. An integrity or credibility crisis is running rampant in every aspect of society. The ethical effect has touched government, politics, business, law, sports and yes, unfortunately, religion. The ethical effect has brought down high-profile individuals in every professional field. Our world needs people whose lives match their lips and whose walk matches their talk. As we journey with James through this section of verses, we come to what is called a contentious subject. From time to time over the past twenty centuries this debate has flared up. James 2:14-26 is like a boxing ring where the so-called learned have put James and Paul in the ring. Paul with the emphasis on FAITH! James with the emphasis on WORKS! In this corner we have the apostle Paul wearing the GRACE trunks. His claim: Ephesians 2:8 (NIV) – For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God In the other corner we have James wearing the WORKS trunks. James 2:18 (NIV) – But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”  Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. Make no mistake about it, the Bible plainly teaches that our eternal salvation rests entirely on God's grace through our faith in the finished work of Christ. Salvation is a free gift of God to everyone who will receive it. The bible also says that true, saving faith will always result in good works. NB! After all, how could the living Christ come live in our life and not make any difference in the way you think, act and speak. This whole debate hinges on the failure of some to make a clear distinction between… The REQUIREMENT for true salvation and The RESULT of true salvation. Good work is never a requirement for salvation but they are certainly the result. People who have passed from death to life; from darkness to light. Whose sins have been forgiven; who have become a new creation in Christ. They can't help but see the world differently and respond accordingly. With passion, enthusiasm, a fire to purity and proclaim the Gospel! In the FAITH versus WORKS debate… People tend to gravitate toward the extremes. Some over-emphasize the faith aspect while completely neglecting the fact that it should result in good works. Faith not works school of thought: You pray a simpler sinner's prayer - have no change of lifestyle. Develop no real desire to pray - hardly ready your bible. Exhibit zero desire for spiritual things yet still saved because you ‘believed'. It's called easy Christianity. Faith or works: Their understanding is if you have faith, that's fine with them or if you do good works in your community, that's also fine. They trust faith or works will get them to this perfect place. The ones who believe in a works salvation somehow think there's a way to earn our way into eternal life. James revealed to us the code we need to understand the relationship of faith and works. Paul and James complement, NOT contradict each other. Here it is: Salvation is not about faith and works.  It's about a FAITH that WORKS. If you can grasp this simple sentence, you will understand the heart of the issue.   The church today desperately needs to rediscover a faith that works. Christianity is a faith that demands a response not just a nod of the head. A faith that bears fruit. After all, a faith that has no fruit is a false faith. To have an ethical effect on the world we need to live out a faith that works. Jeremiah 17:10 (NIV) – “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.”  

Arrogance of Our age. By Pastor George Lehman “Arrogance is knowledge minus wisdom.” – Celso   Isaiah 40:25-26 - 25To whom then will you liken Me, that I should be equal to him? Says the Holy One. 26Lift up your eyes on high and see! Who has created these? He Who brings out their host by number and calls them all by name; though the greatness of His might and because He is strong in power, not one is missing or lacks anything. Isaiah 40:28 - 28Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, does not faint or grow weary; there is no searching of His understanding.   Psalm 89:14 - Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and loving-kindness and truth go before your face.   Hebrews 10:31- It is a fearful (formidable and terrible) thing to incur the divine penalties and be cast into the hands of the living God.    Philippians 2:3 - “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit [through factional motives, or strife], but with [an attitude of] humility [being neither arrogant nor self-righteous], regard others as more important than yourselves. (This is a call to a certain behaviour)   Arrogance: (Arrogansie, voorbarig) is over-confidence, overbearing pride, in self – in self's abilities and self's-reliance. We know the truth but still choose to live arrogantly. We need to always recognize God in everything.   A spiritual atmosphere is what James addresses. James 4:13-17 (Amp) - 13 Come now [and pay attention to this], you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and carry on our business and make a profit.” 14 [a]Yet you do not know [the least thing] [b]about what may happen in your life tomorrow. [What is secure in your life?] You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air]*. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and we will do this or that.” 16 But as it is, you boast [vainly] in your pretension and arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So any person who knows what is right to do but does not do it, to him it is sin. Merely a vapor… [into thin air]* - It is God who gives us breath. Acts 17:25-26 (NIV) - 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. We all know and have seen the effects that a Recession has on an Economy. A recession is a consistent decline in overall economic activity resulting in the loss of jobs, rate hikes – just a downturn in our economy. If we honest we all have times of decline - We all know the meaning of a spiritual recession. James wasn't interested in the economic recession, but in the recessions that plague many hearts. The roots of spiritual recession are the same as the roots of any other kind of recession. According to James the roots are threefold: #1 Spiritual recession in your life can result from foolish presumptions* (Vermetal – astrant) *Presumptuous – Forgetting your limits; disobedience; being disrespectful arrogant. James 4:13 (Amp) – Come now [and pay attention to this], you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city and spend a year there and carry on our business and make a profit.” James 4:15 (NIV) – Instead you ought to say, “if it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.” This person lives as if tomorrow will never come The obsession is with making money and enjoying the pleasures of this world. God is not our first priority; things are! Materialism is his master, motivated by greed. Nothing indicates that this is a bad person – acting unethical or unprofessional. However, his problem is his Attitude not his Actions. His attitude produces his actions. He made all his plans without any consideration of God whatsoever. James called him out: “You boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.” He forgot: James 4:15 (NIV) - 15Instead, you ought to say, “if it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.” Proverbs 27:1 (NIV) – Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth. So, what motivates you? You first do it - then ask God's approval. The warning for us is plane: Don't make presumptions about the future without consulting God. God always knows best. Ephesians 3:20 (Amp) – Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us. #2 Spiritual recessions can also result from “Forgotten perspectives” God ultimately has the final say over my life James 4:14 (NIV) - Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. That's why James reminded us that our lives are like: “A Vapor that appears for a little time and then it vanishes away .” It's easy to brush right over this verse: But imagine you were caught in a fox hole with bombs exploding near to you. Most times life and death are forgotten perspectives (you're so fixated on the details and what is directly in front of you that you can't see the bigger picture). People live as though this life is all there is For too many people act and live as if they have a Ninety nine year lease with an option to renew. James asked – “What is your life?” Many highly educated – Scientists & Philosophers have never been able to satisfactorily answer this question… As Christians we know life doesn't end when our physical bodies die. The bible answers the question. 1 Chronicles 29:15 (NIV) – “Our days on earth are as a shadow.” 2 Samuel 14:14 (NIV) – Like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be recovered, so we must die. But God does not take away life; instead, he devises ways so that a banished person may not remain estranged from him. A fable is told of a Bagdad merchant who sent his servant to the market to pick up some goods for him. While the servant was making the purchases in the marketplace he found himself face to face with Death! In great fear he returned to his master and told him that Death had given him a menacing look and that he must have a horse so he could escape to Samara, a city some distance away. The master quickly gave his servant a horse, then went to the marketplace to find Death. When he found him he asked, "Why did you give my servant a menacing look?" Death replied, "I wasn't looking at him menacingly, I was merely surprised to see him here in Bagdad; for, you see, I have an appointment with him tonight in Samara." Each of us has our own appointment. Don't allow foolish presumptions or forgotten perspectives to distract you. Amos 4:12 (NIV) - “…..prepare to meet your God,….”   → Thunders down through the centuries “Prepare to meet God” #3 Spiritual Recessions can also occur because of “Forsaken priorities” In James's words “To Him who knows to good and does not do it, to Him it is Sin.” James 4:15-17 (NIV) - 15Instead, you ought to say, “if it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.” 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil, 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. James is calling us to get our priorities in order and remember the bottom line when we make any plans… “If it be the Lords will.” James was just saying → Matthew 6:33 (Amp) - But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also. To avoid Spiritual Recession, we need to keep our priorities straight. What is God's will? → It's His Word. Forsaken priorities come when we stray from God's way and will in our lives. James 4:17 (NIV) – Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. It's not only the sins of willful outward acts of disobedience But it's also not doing what we know is right and not doing it. May we say what Jesus said (and mean it) Matthew 26:39 (Amp) - And after going a little farther, He fell face down and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible [that is, consistent with Your will], let this cup [a]pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.”

SCANDALON  Circumstances do not make you what you are … they reveal what you are! It's our reaction that matters. James 1:19 (Amp) – Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.   Slow to speak – if we get this right everything falls into place. Our response to scandalon determines our credibility.   So what is a scandalon? It's the Greek word for “offend”, [struikelblok, aanstoot te gee]. It refers to the part of the trap to which the bait is attached The word ‘offend' means: a trap or a snare – stumbling block. Explain a trap with the bait – It's not always visible. We are all more than likely to take the bait many times in our lives. Jesus said in: Luke 17:1 (NKJV) – “It is impossible that no offences should come.” Offence is a tool of the devil to bring people into captivity. If you give him a foothold it becomes a stronghold. Satan is not sitting in an armchair waiting for hell. Revelation 12:12 (NIV) – 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 that his time is short.”   Paul warned – 2 Timothy 2:24-26 (note verse 26) 2 Timothy 2:24-26 (LB) – 24 God's people must not be quarrelsome; they must be gentle, patient teachers of those who are wrong. 25 Be humble when you are trying to teach those who are mixed up concerning the truth. For if you talk meekly and courteously to them, they are more likely, with God's help, to turn away from their wrong ideas and believe what is true.  26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from Satan's trap of slavery to sin, which he uses to catch them whenever he likes, and then they can begin doing the will of God. Because of hurts, bitterness, unforgiveness, quarrels, opposition, unresolved differences, carrying grudges. People fall into the trap/snare and are then held by the devil as a prisoner to do his will. The devil wants to destroy relationships in marriages, families and churches. If he succeeds, he achieves a great victory – Why? Unity goes Joy and Peace goes Vision goes – Purpose goes The very essence of our calling losses impact. People take the bait of offence so quickly without thinking of the consequences. LET IT GO! The worst part is most times people are unaware of their captivity. The saddest thing is to see a person so deceived. He believes he is right even though he is not. Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim. People think or say, “I was mistreated and misjudged, therefore I am perfectly justified in my Attitude Behaviour. Because you believe you are Innocent you hold back forgiveness. Notice verse 10 says “Many - not a few, not some” Matthew 24:10-13 (LB) – 10 and many of you shall fall back into sin and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and lead many astray. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere and will cool the love of many. 13 But those enduring to the end shall be saved. (Those who do it Gods way) I believe one of the great key ingredients that tests relationships is offence. Can I just say this: “We set ourselves up for offence” when we expect or require certain behaviours – from those whom we have relationships. Listen, the more we expect, the greater the “potential” offence. There are times we must give grace to others. Proverbs 18:19 (LB) – It is harder to win back the friendship of an offended brother than to capture a fortified city. His anger shuts you out like iron bars. Don't forget Jesus warned us that offence will come... Luke 17:1 (NKJV) - “It is impossible that no offences should come.” Did you know there are 4 stages of relationships? It's good to remember that: People judge us by our actions, not our intention, (“Example, Diet”) You can't get thin on your intentions “You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.”                                                                                 -Henry Ford Relationships don't just happen; you and I must make them happen. Don't give offence and don't take it. 4 Stages Courtship / Fellowship Confrontation / Conflict – “Offence Zone” Growth / Maturity Multiplication #1 Courtship/ Fellowship (The Honeymoon stage) Like the engagement stage, we just except one another and love one another we willing to overlook anything we see in the other person. We put our best foot forward. #2 Confrontation/conflict The grass is greener on the other side because there's more manure there! David said: Psalm 55:12-14 (LB) – 12 It was not an enemy who taunted me—then I could have borne it; I could have hidden and escaped.  13 But it was you, a man like myself, my companion and my friend. 14 What fellowship we had, what wonderful discussions as we walked together to the Temple of the Lord on holy days.   Confrontation requires boldness not arrogance. Humility and peace seeking. Confrontation is an opportunity for forgiveness. The aim: To heal and restore the Relationship. Think about this: Any relationship within the family of God is going to be as good as you want it to be.   Romans 12:14-19 (LB) – 14 If someone mistreats you because you are a Christian, don't curse him; pray that God will bless him. 15 When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. 16 Work happily together. Don't try to act big. Don't try to get into the good graces of important people, but enjoy the company of ordinary folks. And don't think you know it all!  17 Never pay back evil for evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honest clear through. 18 Don't quarrel with anyone. Be at peace with everyone, just as much as possible.  19 Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God, for he has said that he will repay those who deserve it. Don't take the law into your own hands. You will either grow or go!   #3 Growth / Maturity This is when we do it God's way - not our own way Maturely loving one another in spite of our shortcomings. Proverbs 19:11... it is to one's glory to overlook an offence. Romans 15:1-2 (Amp) – We who are strong [in our convictions and of robust faith] ought to bear with the failings and the frailties and the tender scruples of the weak; [we ought to help carry the doubts and qualms of others] and not to please ourselves.  2 Let each one of us make it a practice to please (make happy) his neighbour for his good and for his true welfare, to edify him [to strengthen him and build him up spiritually].   #4 Multiplication Matthew 13:23 (Amp) –  As for what was sown on good soil, this is he who hears the Word and grasps and comprehends it; he indeed bears fruit and yields in one case a hundred times as much as was sown, in another sixty times as much, and in another thirty.   This is when relationships are now mature enough to move on. You can now encourage and be an example to others. And thereby develop other meaningful relationships. Never before in History as in the 21st Century: Has knowledge increased in the church at the rate it is. But with all this increased knowledge... We seem to experience: More divisions among believers and leaders. More hurts and bitterness and unforgiveness. More couldn't care-less attitudes toward relationships. We know it ALL but we don't live it ALL. 1 Corinthians 8:1 – Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up and encourages one to grow (to his full stature). If we keep the Love of God as our Motivation. In all we do or say, we will not fail. Love Never Fails.   1 Corinthians 13:5,8a (Amp) – 5Love is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride), it is not rude (un)mannerly) and does not act unbecomingly.  Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way for it is not self-seeking, its not touchy or fretful or resentful, it takes no account of the evil done to it (it pays no attention to a suffered wrong). 8aLove Never Fails 1 Peter 4:8 (Amp) – Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins (forgives and disregards the offences of others).

16/2/2025 My Holy Spirit By Pastor Kobus Massyn I am the great I am - Yahweh Exodus 3:14 And God said to Moses, I Am Who I Am and What I Am, and I Will Be What I Will Be; and He said, You shall say this to the Israelites: I Am has sent me to you! Genesis 1:2 2The earth was without form and an empty waste, and darkness was upon the face of the very great deep. The Spirit of God was moving (hovering, brooding) over the face of the waters. 1 Peter 1:15-16 15 But as the One Who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all your conduct and manner of living.16 For it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy. (Leviticus 11:44,45) 44 For I am the Lord your God; so consecrate yourselves and be holy, for I am holy; neither defile yourselves with any manner of thing that multiplies in large numbers or swarms. 45 For I am the Lord Who brought you up out of the land of Egypt to be your God; therefore you shall be holy, for I am holy. Like a dove Matthew 3:16 16 And when Jesus was baptized, He went up at once out of the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he [John] saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him. Geneses 8:11 11 And the dove came back to him in the evening, and behold, in her mouth was a newly sprouted and freshly plucked olive leaf! So Noah knew that the waters had subsided from the land. Fruit of the Holy Spirit John 20:22 22 And having said this, He breathed on them and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit! Galatians 5:22 22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,   To grief the Holy Spirit Ephesians 4:30 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God's own, secured) for the day of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the consequences of sin).   Gifts of the Holy Spirit Acts 2:2 2 When suddenly there came a sound from heaven like the rushing of a violent tempest blast, and it filled the whole house in which they were sitting. 1 Corinthians 12:4-12 4 Now there are distinctive varieties and distributions of endowments (gifts, extraordinary powers distinguishing certain Christians, due to the power of divine grace operating in their souls by the Holy Spirit) and they vary, but the [Holy] Spirit remains the same. 5 And there are distinctive varieties of service and ministration, but it is the same Lord [Who is served]. 6 And there are distinctive varieties of operation [of working to accomplish things], but it is the same God Who inspires and energizes them all in all. 7 But to each one is given the manifestation of the [Holy] Spirit [the evidence, the spiritual illumination of the Spirit] for good and profit. 8 To one is given in and through the [Holy] Spirit [the power to speak] a message of wisdom, and to another [the power to express] a word of knowledge and understanding according to the same [Holy] Spirit; 9 To another [wonder-working] faith by the same [Holy] Spirit, to another the extraordinary powers of healing by the one Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles, to another prophetic insight (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose); to another the ability to discern and distinguish between [the utterances of true] spirits [and false ones], to another various kinds of [unknown] tongues, to another the ability to interpret [such] tongues. 11 All these [gifts, achievements, abilities] are inspired and brought to pass by one and the same [Holy] Spirit, Who apportions to each person individually [exactly] as He chooses. 12 For just as the body is a unity and yet has many parts, and all the parts, though many, form [only] one body, so it is with Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). Romans 12:6-8 6 Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them: [He whose gift is] prophecy, [let him prophesy] according to the proportion of his faith; 7 [He whose gift is] practical service, let him give himself to serving; he who teaches, to his teaching; 8 He who exhorts (encourages), to his exhortation; he who contributes, let him do it in simplicity and liberality; he who gives aid and superintends, with zeal and singleness of mind; he who does acts of mercy, with genuine cheerfulness and joyful eagerness. Ephesians  4:11 11 And His gifts were [varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us] some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. 1 Peter 4:10-11 10 As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God's many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the [a]extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor]. 11 Whoever speaks, [let him do it as one who utters] oracles of God; whoever renders service, [let him do it] as with the strength which God furnishes [b]abundantly, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever (through endless ages). Amen (so be it). To quench the holy Spirit 1 Thessalonians 5:19 19 Do not quench (suppress or subdue) the [Holy] Spirit; Allow the Abundance of God Luke 6:45 45 The upright (honorable, intrinsically good) man out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart produces what is upright (honorable and intrinsically good), and the evil man out of the evil storehouse brings forth that which is depraved (wicked and intrinsically evil); for out of the abundance (overflow) of the heart his mouth speaks.

The Credibility Crises (Consistency will produce credibility) Credibility means: “The quality of being trusted and believed in”. By: Pastor George Lehman   James 1:19-22 (Amp) - 19 Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.  20 For man's anger does not promote the righteousness God [wishes and requires].  22 But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. I want to focus on what James's thought was important to address: Anger is just one letter short of danger.   Ephesians 4:1(Amp) - I therefore, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to and beg you to walk (lead a life) worthy of the [divine] calling to which you have been called [with behavior that is a credit to the summons to God's service, If we are going to live a life that is credible, we will have to learn to act rather than REACT.  Act out the word; not to react in a manor that destroys your testimony. They say the world needs more warm hearts and fewer hotheads.   Story about Moses: The day begins like any other day but ends like no other day. For on this day Moses gives full vent to his anger and finds himself running for his life. Moses is part of a mistreated minority who were grievously mistreated. Not for doing something wrong but for being perceived as a possible threat. He grew up privileged in the palace of a king.  He himself was spared such heartless treatment.  However, year after year he sees his people suffer. One day he snaps.  He is filled with rage as he sees one of his own being beaten. That day Moses kills an Egyptian and hides his body. The Pharaoh hears about it and Moses flees for his life from Egypt. Question:  Have you ever become so angry to the point that you acted rashly?   Looking at the life of Moses you can see the result of the power of anger... We all have a choice, whether to act wisely or to react foolishly. We must learn to keep our anger under control. Proverbs 29:11 (NIV) - He who being often reproved* hardens his neck shall suddenly be destroyed and that without remedy.  *reproved = being spoken to about your conduct Injustice provokes many people to anger. Moses felt understandable anger over the injustice of his brothers. What he did got him into trouble.  What he revealed is his true character and inability to fulfil the task ahead of him. God sent him into a desert place for 40 years to learn to do it God's way. Acts 7:24-30 (Amp) - The story about Moses how he killed the Egyptian and fled into the desert What is the meaning of anger that James is talking about? Fire-fighters know the danger of letting a flame get out of control.  They respond quickly because they are trained to. We need to train ourselves to respond quickly to the flame of anger before it consumes our life and destroys relationships. Proverbs 14:17 (NIV) - A quick tempered man does foolish things… Anger: A strong emotion of irritation or agitation* that occurs when a need or expectation is not met. *agitation = disturbed mental state (Agitasie) Proverbs 29:22 (NIV) - An angry man stirs up dissension* and a hot-tempered one commits many sins. *dissension= problems arising from difference of opinions Proverbs 22:24 (Amp) - Make no friendship with a man given to anger and with a wrathful man do not associate. What is the magnitude of anger?  Anger, the word, covers many levels of emotions. Anger is like heat - it ranges from mild, controlled irritations to hot uncontrolled explosions. The bible uses many words to express the word ANGER We see this in the Book of Ephesians 4:   Indignation[verontwaardiging]: It's an anger provoked by something appearing unjust or unworthy.  It's often seen as justified. Mark10:14 (NIV) - …Not allowing the children to come to Jesus; when Jesus saw (it) He was indignant… Wrath[toorn/woede]: Is burning anger accompanied by a desire to avenge. Wrath often moves from the emotion of anger to an outward expression of anger. God expresses His wrath as divine judgement upon those who commit willful sin. Fury[ontplof]: Fury is fiery anger.  It's so fierce that it destroys common sense.  Fury suggests a powerful force wanting to harm or destroy. The Jews were so angry with Peter and the apostles: Acts 5:33 (Amp) - When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. That's why the Bible says in Proverbs 27:4 - Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming…   Rage[woede/uitbars]: Rage is blazing anger.  It involves loss of self-control, violence and temporary insanity.  Many people after an outburst of rage, have remorse.  “I can't believe I did that”. Proverbs 19:3 (NIV) - A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the Lord. What are some of the misconceptions about anger? Do you view your anger as negative and sinful?  If you hide your anger from others and even yourself, you'll place yourself in bondage and false guilt. Is it a sin to be angry? NO!  The initial feeling of anger is a God-given emotion.  The way you respond or express these feelings determines whether you have allowed your anger to become sin. Ephesians 4:26-27 (Amp) - When angry, do not sin, do not ever let your wrath, your exasperation, your fury or indignation last until the sun goes down.  Leave no (such) room or foothold for the devil (give no opportunity to him). How can I keep from feeling guilty when I'm angry? Anger is a signal that something is wrong- -like a red light on a dashboard).  Stop, take action.  Deal with what is causing your anger. Colossians 3:8 (Amp) - But now put away and rid yourselves (completely) of all these things:  Anger, rage, bad feelings towards others, curses and slander, and foul-mouthed abuse and shameful utterance from your lips. It's a choice!!!   James is dealing with our credibility [geloofwaardigheid] How we conduct ourselves says a lot about what's happening within us. What do you need God to help you with in the area of anger?  

Faith involves *consistency. By Pastor George Lehman   Consistency:  It's the jewel worth wearing; it's the anchor worth securing; it's the thread worth weaving; it's a battle worth winning.”   - Charles Swindoll *consistency = stability, to change you go forward not backwards, steadfast to the same principles Inconsistency – when your words and actions don't align. James 1:18-25 (NIV) – 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.  19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for human anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.  22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. *Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. *Do what it says = Like Putting a password in your computer but never pressing enter, it will never open the programs. True faith is characterized by Knowing Christ. Sowing consistency   True faith starts with knowing Christ as our Saviour. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) – 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. Our best offer was… Ephesians 2:1-2 (NIV) – As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. You are not born a Christian - you must be born again. Then our true faith involves sowing consistency in our lives. This consistency manifests itself in our talk and our walk – our conversations and our conduct. This is when consistency begins to become a reality. If we are going to be a credible witness of Christ to the world… …we must not only genuinely know Him; we must also be consistent in living in a way that honours Him. Consistent in our talk. The mark of genuine Christianity is having one's conversations consistent with biblical standards and Christian beliefs. James encouraged the church to listen more than we speak. Let your life do the talking.   Proverbs 10:19 (NIV) – When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. Jesus gave us this warning: Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV) – 36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Genuine Christian living demands that we be cautious in our conversations and that our words are consistent with God's word and character.   James admonishes us: James 1:21 (NIV) – Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Although God chooses us and calls us to Himself, there is something for us to do. We are to take off our old coats of sin and strip away all filth. You can't keep playing in the mud when God has taken you out of it. James was writing to believers like you and me who already know Christ. Knowing and representing Jesus, we need to be consistent in our conversations as well as our conduct. James never held back to make his point. That if we are going to show the world a credible Christ then… …we must know Christ and sow consistency in our lives. Consistent in our walk. This is some of James' most famous and most repeated words. “Be doers of the word and not hearers only.”   Then comes a promise: James 1:25b -“He who is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does”. My desire is that I would rather see people “DO” one sermon than hear a hundred of them. Consistency is in the DOING not just in the HEARING. Like: How did you learn to ride a bike ? By reading a manual Watching others ride Listening to instructions about keeping your balance No! You'll never learn to ride a bike until you get on it and do it over and over. James likened the one who only hears God's word, but does not do it to… “A man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away and immediately forgets what kind of a man he was.” His message is all too clear.  A mirror doesn't lie – it tells the truth. The Bible is like a mirror, when we look into it, we see ourselves as we really are in God's eyes. Not what we say we are or who others might think we are. Have you been looking in the mirror of the Bible lately?  Not just a passing glance. See yourself in: Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) - 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  24 See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. James spoke of one who every day opens the Word and looks intently into it… The result is a “Blessed life in what he does”. E.g. We are not blessed in our stewardship and tithing by studying what the bible teaches us, but in doing it. He challenged us to: James 1:21 – Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. James must have had Jesus' word in mind. Luke 11:28 (NLT) – Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” When we humbly receive God's word in our hearts, it has a supernatural way of leading us to… “Be doers of the word and not hearers only”. True faith involves not just knowing Christ but also sowing consistency between what we read and hear and our conversations and our conduct Close: 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (Amp) – And as for you, brethren, do not become weary or lose heart in doing right [but continue in well doing without weakening].  

 Your Passion will lead the way. By Pastor George Lehman   There is no passion to be found in playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.     Passion is a powerful emotion that drives us towards a deeper commitment to God. 1 Corinthians 15:57-58(Amp) – 57But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labour in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose]. Passion - there's just so much in this word – even if you just whispered it. How do you know someone has Passion? You see it. What is passion?  It's the driving force behind ordinary people performing extraordinary tasks and achieving great accomplishments. Passion means: eagerness[entoesiasme], enthusiasm[ywer], fire, intensity, zeal[geesdrif], desire[brandende begeerte], hunger, craving[smag/verlange]. Our greatest example… Acts 1:3 (Amp) - To them also He showed Himself alive after His passion (His suffering in the garden and on the cross) by [a series of] many convincing demonstrations [unquestionable evidences and infallible proofs], appearing to them during forty days and talking [to them] about the things of the kingdom of God.   Matthew 11:12(TPT) – From the moment John stepped onto the scene until now, the realm of heaven's kingdom is bursting forth, and passionate people have taken hold of its power.   Passion will move you… beyond yourself, (It draws you away from self-centred life) beyond compromise, (you do what the word says) beyond your shortcomings, beyond your failures (indifference; detachment, cold, disinterested) Passion gives you the desire, the fire so strong to succeed, that no force on earth can stop you! It's passion that makes sacrifice easier and hardship bearable. It's passion that will endure all persecution. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 (Amp) - 7However, we possess this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves.  8We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair;  9We are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed. Those who remain faithful and fruitful over the years learn to keep the fire of passion flaming! 2 Timothy 1:6 (Amp) -  “That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [[a]with those of the elders at your ordination]. Don't ask yourself what the world needs.  Ask yourself what makes YOU come alive AND THEN you go and do that. Because what the world needs are people who have come alive with passion. God is looking for His passionate children. 2 Chronicles 16:9a (Amp) - For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong in behalf of those whose hearts are ‘blameless toward Him'. Nothing great in this world has ever been accomplished without passion. God's people are passion-carriers, looking for a place to manifest. Passion and power are inseparable[onafskeidelik]   Matthew 11:12b (TPT) - Passionate people have taken hold of its power. We will never experience the full effect of the power of God UNLESS we get the Passion of God. Without passion you don't have power. Without power you have nothing! We need to renew our passion daily! We need to be passionate about our Praying, reading our bible, Praising, Witnessing, Giving, Church attendance, our Love for each other. 1. Join a home cell Group: Connect with fellow believers who share your passion for God and explore Scripture together. Find a Spiritual Mentor: Seek guidance from a mature Christian who can encourage and challenge you in your faith. Attend Church Services: Participate in corporate worship, learning from sermons and fellowshipping with other believers. Serve Others: Engage in acts of service, demonstrating God's love and compassion to those around you. But mostly, passionate about our 1st love JESUS. On a scale of 1-10 where would you place yourself on the scale of passion for the things of God?  What do you plan to do to increase that level? Passion sets goals.  What is your goal for this year Passion will drive you towards fulfilling that goal. Let us ask God to ignite the fire of passion in our hearts.

Faithfully yours… By Pastor Kobus Massyn I am Faithfully yours. Genesis 17: 1-2 1'When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; Walk [habitually] before Me [with integrity, knowing that you are always in My presence], and be blameless and complete [in obedience to Me]. 2“I will establish My covenant (everlasting promise) between Me and you, And I will multiply you exceedingly [through your descendants].” ' Faithfully your will be done. Romans 4:3 - ‘'For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed in (trusted, relied on) God , and it was credited to his account as righteousness (right living, right standing with God).” Romans 4:24 'but for our sake also - to whom righteousness will be credited, as those who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead' Faithfully yours alone. Romans 14:7 'None of us lives for himself [for his own benefit, but for the Lord], and none of us dies for himself [but for the Lord].' Romans 14:12 'So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. ' Romans 14:17-19 'for the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking [what one likes], but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For the one who serves Christ in this way [recognizing that food choice is secondary] is acceptable to God and is approved by men. So then, let us pursue [with enthusiasm] the things which make for peace and the building up of one another [things which lead to spiritual growth]. '

5-01-2025  The effort of Faithfulness produces the promised fruit By Pastor Kobus Massyn     Matthew 25:21 (Amp) His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the blessedness) which your master enjoys. Psalms 25:21 'Let integrity and uprightness protect me, For I wait [expectantly] for You. ' True faithfullness is a caracter It is about the fruit.... Proverbs 13:17 (Amp) A wicked messenger falls into evil, but a faithful ambassador brings healing. Proverbs 20:6 (Amp) Many a man proclaims his own loving-kindness and goodness, but a faithful man who can find? Faithfullness is about hope and perseverance. Luke 16:10 (Amp) He who is faithful in a very little [thing] is faithful also in much, and he who is dishonest and unjust in a very little [thing] is dishonest and unjust also in much. Hebrews 3:2-6 (Amp) 2[See how] faithful He was to Him Who appointed Him [Apostle and High Priest], as Moses was also faithful in the whole house [of God]. 3Yet Jesus has been considered worthy of much greater honor and glory than Moses, just as the builder of a house has more honor than the house [itself]. 4For [of course] every house is built and furnished by someone, but the Builder of all things and the Furnisher [of the entire equipment of all things] is God. 5And Moses certainly was faithful in the administration of all God's house [but it was only] as a ministering servant. [In his entire ministry he was but] a testimony to the things which were to be spoken [the revelations to be given afterward in Christ]. 6But Christ (the Messiah) was faithful over His [own Father's] house as a Son [and Master of it]. And it is we who are [now members] of this house, if we hold fast and firm to the endour joyful and exultant confidence and sense of triumph in our hope [in Christ]. 1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is [essentially] required of stewards that a man should be found faithful [proving himself worthy of trust].

REMOVE ANY BARRIERS AS YOU FACE 2025 By Pastor George Lehman   “It's never too late to be what you might have been”                                                                           - George Elliot   Philippians 3:12 - Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own.   I may not be where I want to be, but I'm not the person I use to be. Barriers = an obstacle that blocks advancement, circumstances that keep things apart. (Barriers = “hinderpaal”). Think seriously about this, what are the barriers you have in your life? Barriers that are preventing you from becoming what Jesus saved you for: - Your calling, your purpose, to be fruitful. 1 Timothy 4:8 - “Bodily exercise is alright, but spiritual exercise is much more important and is a tonic for all you do.  So, exercise yourself spiritually and practice being better Christians – because that will help you not only now in this life, but the next life too”. The fitness industry is worth billions of dollars, and is growing due to a number of factors. The Global Wellness Institute estimates the wellness industry is worth $5.6 trillion. The global health and fitness club market was valued at $104.05 billion in 2022, and is projected to grow to $202.78 billion by 2030. It's amazing how much money, time, energy, commitment and dedication goes into bodily exercise, and how little goes into being Spiritually fit and healthy. What is Paul saying – “Keep spiritually fit by actively removing the barriers that are keeping you from being obedient/effective”. It's not about achieving perfection over night; its more about subtraction. The question as you look back over the past year. In the last 12 months have you become, Committed Dedicated - Is the same fire still burning in you? Obedient Fruitful - Is there real evidence of the fruit of the Spirit? Gone deeper Have you grown in your knowledge of Jesus? I want us to look at …… “The other side of God”. Prophetic Word for His church. Isaiah 45:17-19 (Amp) - “17 But Israel shall be saved by the Lord with an everlasting salvation; you shall not be put to shame or confounded to all eternity. 18 For thus says the Lord—Who created the heavens, God Himself, who formed the earth and made it, Who established it and did not create it to be a worthless waste; He formed it to be inhabited—I am the Lord, and there is no one else. 19 I have not spoken in secret, in a corner of the land of darkness; I did not call the descendants of Jacob [to a fruitless service], saying, Seek Me for nothing [but I promised them a just reward]. I, the Lord, speak righteousness (the truth—trustworthy, straightforward correspondence between deeds and words); I declare things that are right.   Here is the cross reference – Hebrews 5:8-9 (Amp)  -“8 Although He was a Son, He learned [active, special] obedience through what He suffered 2 Timothy 3:12 – All who want to live a devoted life will suffer persecution. 9 And, [His completed experience] making Him perfectly [equipped], He became the Author and Source of eternal salvation to all those who give heed and obey Him, Something God revealed to me – when we get saved, we cross the border FROM: – darkness to light – Death to life – religion to a relationship “Here is the problem” – many hang around the border post. We read so many scriptures and hear sermons about The HOW TO. But still do not fully put the word into practice. Walk with me through scripture and see God's heart. James 4:17 - “So, any person who know what is right to do (what is obedient) but does not do it (disobedience to it) to him it is sin”. Matthew 21:28-31 - “28 What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He came to the first and said, Son, go and work today in the vineyard. 29 And he answered, I will not; but afterward he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the man came to the second and said the same [thing]. And he replied, I will [go], sir; but he did not go. 31 Which of the two did the will of the father? They replied, The first one. Jesus said to them, Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the harlots will get into the kingdom of heaven before you. Obedience vs. Disobedience. God is pleased with submission that leads to true obedience. Matthew 22:14 - “For many are called but few are chosen”. Means – Called = to be a Saint (child of God) Chosen = willing to surrender self – the thing that blocks your advancement. Circumstances that keep things apart. But have you chosen the deeper walk with Jesus – deeper, higher, more fruitful, deny self, take up the Cross – Growing in Grace. Moving away from the border post going further, and deeper into the things of God? John 14:24 - “Anyone who does not (really) love me does not observe and obey my teachings”. (Church of Ephesians). Revelation 2:4 - “But I have this one charge to make against you, that you have left (abandoned) the love that you had at first (you have deserted Me, your first love)”. You see my friend; our relationship is more than just “Praying a sinner's prayer” –That's only the start, we must work at removing the barriers that are blocking your progress The church has neglected or placed no emphasis on keeping His commands. Acts 10:34-35 - “34Peter says God is no respecter of people – God shows no partiality.  35But in every nation he who venerates and has a reverential fear for God, treating Him with worshipful obedience and living uprightly is acceptable to Him and sure of being received and welcomed (by Him)”. Hebrews 2:2-3, Jesus said: - “Those who will be in heaven are those who confess and do the will of God”. It is not a once off Sunday decision or a New Years decision; it is a lifetime decision, summed up in one word – Obedience!   1 Peter 1:14 (Amp) - “[Live] as children of obedience [to God]; do not conform yourselves to the evil desires [that governed you] in your former ignorance [when you did not know the requirements of the Gospel].   What barriers are blocking your obedience? Simple things like: Prayerless Reading God's word Sharing your faith Slack on church attendance Carrying grudges / unforgiveness Anger issues Gossip Telling lies  

I believe in I AM by Pastor Kobus Massyn   Exodus 3:14 (Amp) – And God said to Moses, I AM Who I Am and What I Am, and I Will Be What I will Be; and He said, You shall say this to the Israelites: I Am has sent me to you! John 9:5 (Amp) – As long as I am in the world, I am the world's Light. John 14:28 (Amp) – You heard Me tell you, I am going away and I am coming [back] to you. If you [really] loved Me, you would have been glad, because I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater and mightier than I am. 2 Corinthians 11:6 (Amp) – But even if [I am] unskilled in speaking, yet [I am] not [unskilled] in knowledge [ I know what I am talking about]; we have made this evident to you in all things. 2 Corinthians 12:18 (Amp) – [Actually], I urged Titus [to go], and I sent the brother with [him]. Did Titus overreach or take advantage of you [in anything]? Did he and I not act in the same spirit? Did we not [take the] same steps? 2 Corinthians 12:10 (Amp) - So for the sake of Christ, I am well pleased and take pleasure in infirmities, insults, hardships, persecutions, perplexities and distresses; for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength).

Our indescribable gift Pastor George Lehman   25 December – the day or date is not important? What is important is that it did happen.   Psalm 118:22-24 - 22The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; 23the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.   My scripture this morning is 2 Corinthians 9:15 (NIV).  It's a short verse – only 8 words long. Paul says: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” [Maar God sy dank vir sy onuitspreeklike gawe]                                Most of us have survived the shopping experience. Choosing Christmas gifts for those special people in our lives. Let me ask you: “have you ever received an “indescribable gift?” I thought about this - what kind of gift would it have to be, to be called “indescribable”? If you opened it, what would you say?  Wow, it's beautiful, something you always wanted.  Whatever the gift, what would make it an indescribable gift? There are many life tales of great gifts given to people: Mark Shuttleworth gave each one of his employees R1 Million. When he sold his company Joan Linden, a radio show host, featured some gift ideas: $300 000 for a gold and silver toilet seat inlaid with precious stones (R5.7 Million).  “You could be King of your Castle on this seat”. $18 000 frisbee (R342000) $10 000 Yo-yo (R190000) $12 000 mouse trap (R228000) $27 000 pair of sunglasses (R513000) and then for grand parentsto buy for the new baby - $28 000 dummy (R532 000) boats and cars valued at billions of rand. I think these gifts stagger our imagination – don't they?  But all these human gifts are very describable by someone. Paul at first talking about gifts in the passage of scripture in 2 Cor 9 – he is discussing human gifts.  He commends them for their eagerness to help and for their generosity for giving so abundantly. If you sow sparingly, you will reap sparingly. If you sow generously, you will reap generously. The attention then goes to God's gift of sending Jesus. Paul has no words to describe this.  All he says is: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.”  A gift beyond description. So many people, poets, musicians, painters and sculptors have tried to bring tribute and express this indescribable gift the person Jesus, the gift of God's love.  Why does Paul call Jesus “INDESCRIBABLE”? I think there are at least 4 reasons     I'm not trying to describe it, because I can't.  But I want to stir your heart to focus afresh on “God's gift to you”.   #1  Because of His nature     How do you describe Jesus?  What words would you choose?  How do you describe God in flesh – reaching out to the hurting masses of humanity and being the 100% cure?   John 10:10 (AMP) – The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).    “God's love is not logical.  It is unimaginable that God descended in His Son to bring salvation to ungrateful people.  Jesus became what we are in order to make us what He is.”       Isaiah said:  He will be called Emmanuel (God with us); Paul said:  We can't describe the “indescribable” gift The sms making its rounds lately reads as follows: He had no servants – yet they called Him MASTER No degrees – yet they called Him TEACHER No medicine – yet they called Him HEALER No army – yet the King's FEARED Him He won no military battles – yet He CONQUERED the world He committed no crime – yet they CRUCIFIED Him He was buried – yet He ROSE AND LIVES TODAY! The birth of Jesus brought God to man, BUT it took the cross of Jesus Christ to bring man to God.       He is indescribable!   #2  Because of His purpose in coming to earth     What is the Christmas celebration [Kersfees vieringe] about after all? Not decorated trees, not presents, not holidays, not some overweight dude wearing red either. OUR GREATEST NEED: for HIS coming If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent us an educator; If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist; If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist; If our greatest need had been pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer;   The Answer is: Our greatest needwas forgiveness, so God sent us a Saviour – to bring hope to a lost, sinful world.   God's gift is indescribable!     #3  Because of the grace by which Jesus is given     We buy gifts for people we know – like our wife and kids because it's kind of the right thing to do.  Normally if people give us a gift, we feel obliged to give one back.  We feel we must help the needy, the poor, because we have an obligation to them.   This is what makes God so special – He doesn't owe us anything, in fact:     Romans 5:8 (NIV) - But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.                                            We deserved the WORST, but we got the BEST.  A gift is not a gift if you pay for it – it's free by GRACE.   Lastly, it's indescribable!   #4  Because of His overwhelming [oorweldigende] effect on us     The gifts you got for Christmas may be wonderful and you may be very thankful, BUT tomorrow you will still be the same – it will not change you. The Bible teaches that when we accept Jesus Christ, “The indescribable gift”, we can NEVER be the same again.     Our sins are forgiven and forgotten.     2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) - “We're a brand-new person.”     Let us thank God for this season as we celebrate “His indescribable gift”, JESUS, to a lost world. He became like us– that we might become like Him. He was rejected– that we might be accepted. He was condemned– that we might be forgiven. He was punished– that we might be pardoned. He suffered– that we might be strengthened. He was whipped– that we might be healed. He was hated– that we might be loved. He was crucified– that we might be justified. He was tortured– that we might be comforted. He died– that we might live. He went to hell– that we might go to Heaven. He endured what we deserved– that we might enjoy what only He deserves.                                                      

Thanksgiving - this is the season Pastor George Lehman Thanksgiving is not just a December thing. It's a lifetime attitude. Luke 2:10 – But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people. It isn't what you have in your pocket that makes you thankful, but what you have in your heart.   If Thankfulness was determined by what's in our pockets most of us would have good reason to be unthankful. We all understand we need to be thankful. How many times do we really express it? Once in a while or is it constant. A thankful heart is far more important to your experience of life than most people realize. It puts you in a great frame of mind. Most people know they should be thankful, but do not put a premium on proactively cultivating a thankful heart. The optimist says, “the cup is half full”. The pessimist says, “the cup is half empty”. The thankful child of God says, “my cup runneth over”. - Go for it!! Tonight, we come to express our thankfulness to our Heavenly FATHER. Our favorite attitude should be gratitude [dankbaarheid]. (A mother was reading from a book of Bible stories to her little daughter Lucy when she came to a page showing Christians being fed to the lions.  The little girl began to whimper.  Mom said, “It's all right honey, I'm sure they're all going to heaven.”  The little girl answered, “But Mommy, that little lion in the corner doesn't have a Christian!”  I think it's safe to say that Lucy missed the point. (Hope you don't miss the point of this sermon…) An unthankful heart will produce negative issues in your life. I personally have rarely seen a happy ungrateful person. Romans 1:21 says, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” (Clearly being thankful is on Gods heart for mankind - how much more for His children)   If you're not thankful to God for what happens in your life, then, who takes the credit? You do! You become puffed up, arrogant, and vain. You become stuck on yourself. That kind of focus just darkens your heart, creates a foolish heart, and keeps your attention on things you have done and achieved. One of the surest and best ways to remain positive and have a great attitude is to express gratitude and appreciation. Thankfulness to God should be as regular as our heartbeat. They say God as 2 dwellings - one in Heaven and the other in a THANKFUL heart. Psalm 95:2 says, “Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving.” Experiencing the presence of God requires that you be a thankful person. We see it again in Psalm 100:4 - “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving.” (Not complaining, murmuring or grumbling) Ephesians 5:20 (Amp) - At all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.                                         Philippians 4:6 says, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; For you to have answered prayer, you need to pray out of a heart of thanksgiving. Many Christians pray out of a heart of desperation instead of a grateful heart. Thankfulness is God's will for our lives. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (Amp) - Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]. Colossians 3:15 (Amp) - And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live].  And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].    “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them” - JFK            Quotes: You cannot be a testifier until you've been through the test of fire. Of one thing you should be thankful, only you and God have all the facts about yourself. Real happiness comes when we stop murmuring and complaining about the troubles we have and begin to offer thankfulness for all the troubles we don't have. Therefore, we want Gods church, His body, to come give thanks and deep appreciation for what He has done. So, we want to bring as the following scripture: Hebrews 13:15-16 (NIV) - Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise-the fruit of lips that confess His name.  And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.   Heaven is a place where we will be thankful for: Having received what, we did not deserve; and For not receiving what we did deserve. Psalm 106:1 (Amp) – Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!) O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!  

Courage to live by By: Pastor George Lehman   “I will go anywhere, as long as it's forward” – David Livingstone. (There is no time to get sidetracked) Courage has been used in the Bible more than 114 times. Why the need to speak on courage?  I believe it's been on God's heart from the beginning of mankind and it's relevant for us here tonight. (God would never call us to live courageously if it were not possible) Scripture is full of God's instruction to live a life of courage. Courage is activated when I'm plugged into God. Joshua 1:6 (Amp) – Be* strong (confident) and of good courage, for you shall cause these people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. “BE" is used to create the continuous form not stopping, not just for a day but every day. It's a lifestyle word. In our day and age there are so many things that seem to be attacking our lives.  Challenges to give up to sin and give in to temptations.  I don't think there is anyone here right now who is not: Going through one or other issue in life. Just come through something. Just about to go through some or other issue. I can tell you, it's certainly different being a Christian now than it was 20 or 30 years ago. There is a great onslaught on God's people. The good news is: The anointing, power and ability to walk courageously is still the same and is available today as it was 7000 years ago. The challenges of this time and age when sin is no longer called sin, standards are lowered and below the average is the norm.  Mans opinions take the place of God's word. People serve God by their own interpretations. Christians are not faithful, and any old lifestyle will do. The truth is: Those disciples that are serious about their relationship with God carry a bigger responsibility than those of a couple of years ago. The world is following its own direction. “Eternity, going to heaven is a choice.  Hell is guaranteed”.  We need to be alert to what's going on around us. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (Amp) - But understand this, that in the last days will come (set in) perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear].  2For people will be lovers of self and [utterly] self-centered, lovers of money and aroused by an inordinate [greedy] desire for wealth, proud and arrogant and contemptuous boasters.  They will be abusive (blasphemous, scoffing), disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy and profane.  3[They will be] without natural [human] affection (callous and inhuman) relentless (admitting of no truce or appeasement); [they will be] slanderers (false accusers, troublemakers), in temperate and loose in morals and conduct, uncontrolled and fierce, haters of good.  4[They will be] treacherous [betrayers], rash, [and] inflated with self-conceit.  [They will be] lovers of sensual pleasures and vain amusements more than and rather than lovers of God.  5For [although] they hold a form of piety (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession].  Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them]. As God gave this message to Moses about Joshua who would take Israel on the next leg of the journey: Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV) - Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.                                   So, we draw comfort and courage from this word for us, for now. Philippians 4:13 (NIV) - I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. COURAGE; Means: Readiness to face and capacity to endure danger or difficulty.  Ability to control or suppress fear. The Bible defines “Courage” as the willingness to act in obedience to God, relying on His strength and guidance. You're not finished when you are defeated.  You're finished when you quit. People may think you're finished, but don't quit on God because He will never quit on you. 1 Chronicles 19:13 (NKJV) - Be of good courage and let us be strong for our people, and for the cities of our God.  And may the Lord do what is good in His sight.                       Remember Numbers 13:18-20 when Moses sent out 12 men to check out the “Promised Land”.  They were not asked to draw conclusions.  You see, God had already promised and guaranteed the victory. 10 men give an accurate report from a heart of discouragement. 2 men (Joshua and Caleb) speak from a heart of courage. Courage tells us we believe what God says, NOT what our feelings and circumstances tell us.  When you make up your mind to live courageously, courage will find a way to do something, not a way not to do it. James 1:22-25 (Msg) – 22-24Don't fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don't act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like.  25But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action.                                              Winston Churchill's famous speech at the Harrow School in 1941:  He said: “Never give in, never give in; Never, never, never.  In nothing great or small, large or petty.  Never give in”. Isaiah 41:3 (NKJV) - For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, “Fear not, I will help you”.                  When you decide to live by courage, it will conquer the: Temptation to give up. Maintain a Godly pure lifestyle. You will remain faithful no matter what. You'll change and grow into the person God called you to be. Courage helps you to be transparent; to want to be more like Jesus. Make a decision to leave church tonight and live courageously tomorrow, Will take courage to back up that decision and to see it through. When Monday comes, that's the time to say: “I courageously ‘Fight the good fight of the faith'”. 1 Corinthians 16:13 (NIV) - Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.  Are you willing to live by courage?  God is interested in your answer!!

Worry less, laugh more. By Pastor George Lehman Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects. Worry is the ultimate knock-down tool. The devil uses worry as an effective tool to discourage us. Someone said:  Laughter is the cheapest luxury that man has.  It stirs up the blood, expands the chest, electrifies the nerves, clears away the cobwebs from the brain and gives the whole system a cleansing rehabilitation. Why would we not want to laugh more? Here's God's view on worry… Philippians 4:6-7 (LB) – Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything (the things effecting your life); tell God your needs and don't forget to thank him for his answers.  If you do this you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. We live in an age that's increasingly fast-paced and uncertain. When a crisis is added to our plate, it's natural for our worry and anxiety levels to shoot off the charts. They say worry and anxiety is on the rise. More and more people are more anxious more often then 5 years ago. …unfortunately, this makes it twice as difficult for us to respond well to the new challenges. Anxiety can cause heart palpitations, shortness of breath, nausea, loss of appetite, lack of sleep, loneliness, depression and …plenty more symptoms we'd just want to avoid. “Anxiety and worry do not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength.”  - Spurgeon   Worry, meanwhile, is like negative meditation. Worry is a continual over thinking of potential disastrous outcomes.  (The what if's, should haves, & would have's) Worry robs us of energy and the ability to focus on the actual problem. They say, “Worry is like a ‘rocking chair'.”  It gives you something to do but never gets you anywhere. That's why we need to be mind made up, making faith-filled decisions not to worry or be anxious. We need to fix our minds on God's promises. One great line of defence is a sense of humour.  Lighten up a bit. Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) – A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.   WORRY BUSTERS! Jesus made it plain where He stood on the subject of worry… Matthew 6:25 (NIV) – “Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Matthew 6:27 (LB) – Will all your worries add a single moment to your life? [it will shorten your life] Matthew 6:34 (LB) - So don't be anxious about tomorrow.  God will take care of your tomorrow too.  Live one day at a time. The amazing thing is even with this promise, we still struggle with fears about the future. We know this; but we still choose to be anxious and worry.  Somehow, we think it helps us cope! THE HARDEST HABIT TO BREAK IS WORRY. “If you can't help worrying, remember that worrying can't help you either.” Next time you find yourself dwelling on your concerns, try a few of the following ideas… Worry buster #1  Try to calm down. Catch yourself if you're starting down the worry path - change directions. Maybe take a brief walk - movement will help you release tension. Replace your negative thinking by meditating on a positive idea or a verse of scripture. Philippians 4:8 (Msg) – Summing it all up friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious – the best, not the worst;  the beautiful, not the ugly;  things to praise, not things to curse. Play some uplifting spiritual worship music – I find it hard to worry about ME when I'm thinking about HIM. Worry buster #2 Sort out your concerns. How do you make a mountain?  You just keep adding a little dirt on top of each other. The A.A. (Alcoholics Anonymous) have a ‘serenity' prayer begins with these words: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. If you're weary from worry, write them down and talk them over with someone you trust. A problem shared is a problem halved... Galatians 6:2 (Amp) – Bear (endure, carry) one another's burdens and  troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it]. Separate what you can influence and change from what you have no control over. Make a choice to let go of things you aren't able to fix. To worry about things, we can't change is useless and stupid. Most of the things we worry about never happen in any case!!!   Worry buster #3  Turn over your worries to the Lord. Ultimately, trusting God is the only effective response to our tendency to worry. If you do, the apostle Paul says… Philippians 4:7 (NLT) – Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Peter was of the same conviction… 1 Peter 5:7 (Amp) – Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. If you're drowning in worry, can I suggest you spend extra time in prayer and meditation on the Word. Worry and anxiety are like heavy weights that trail along behind you wherever you go. It will drag you down! It's time to release your worry weights hand them over to God and trust His promises to take care of your PROBLEMS. Worry less, laugh more! Proverbs 15:13, 15 (LB) – 13A happy face means a glad heart; a sad face means a breaking heart.  15When a man is gloomy, everything seems to go wrong; when he is cheerful, everything seems right! Studies have shown that laughter does indeed prompt a host of positive influences. It stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin hormones that create feelings of well-being and confidence. Laughter reduces tension and stress, strengthens the immune system and protects the heart. Think about it, who are you mostly attracted to…? Sad, morbid, negative, always complaining, fault-finding type people or... Joyful, fun, jolly, positive people. Milton Berle once said, “Laughter is an instant vacation”. Learn to laugh at yourself. When we can see humor in a problem, then life's problems don't seem quite so serious. A sense of humor can help you overlook the unattractive; tolerate the unpleasant, cope with the unexpected and smile through the unbearable.  Rabbi Moshe Waldoks NB!!!  Worry doesn't prevent ‘DISASTER' it prevents JOY. Don't ever forget… “He who laughs – lasts”

We conquer by Enduring Endurance is the ability to persist and exert oneself over a long period of time, while conquering is the act of overcoming adversity. If I endure, I will conquer Hebrews 10:36 - 'For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise …' Hebrews 10:36 (Amp) – For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised. This is no time for ease, comfort or procrastination. It is time to ENDURE - to press on and press through. Why is endurance so important in the life of God's children It is because Endurance (perseverance) is the key to a productive, fruitful, effective, overcoming life The most authentic thing about a child of God is their capacity to endure any hardship and suffering. You are equipped to endure. In Romans 5:3-4 the Apostle Paul says: “3Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. 4 And endurance (fortitude)* courage in pain or Adversity develops maturity of character (approved faith and [b]tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. Endurance mostly runs parallel to pain, tribulation and opposition. Do not despair! This is where the master plan of God is revealed once more – where He catches the devil in his own schemes. The devil says, 'let's give them pain and opposition, let's threaten them, distract them, disappoint them, make them depressed, anything to get them to quit this walk of faith.' God looks at this and says, 'keep your eyes on Me; keep on loving me; keep on obeying Me and you will see Me turn this very cursed plan of the devil around to give you greater breakthroughs and awesome opportunities! You didn't imagine was possible. Don't quit! Keep on keeping on and you will see My salvation!' An Enduring life is never forged in the lap of luxury or in the comfort-zone but in the reality of opposition. You conquer when you endure. Let opposition and adversity be your fitness instructors for endurance in God's will. What must we endure in? From our text we can plainly see that endurance is tested in the area of doing His will. The following are key issues of His will that we need to keep on doing: Loving God. Loving others. Listening to His voice. Reading and Doing His Word. Praying. Believing. Proclaiming the Gospel. Doing good. Living by mercy and truth; and Giving. If you want make progress and mature, you will need to ENDURE (persevere) in doing life according to God's ways. It is all about keeping on doing His will. While we endure in doing God's will a wonderful work is done in us. Endurance builds character and releases hope. (See Romans 5:3,4) Tested, persevering people are hopeful people! While we are doing God's will there is a powerful inner peace and a sense of His security released in us. Revelation 3:10 the Word of God promises us: 'Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Boost your endurance In Hebrews 12:1-2 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honour beside God's throne. We find the following instructions to boost our endurance: Surround yourself with encouraging believers – a cloud of witnesses, not sceptical pessimists and doomsday prophets like Job's friends; Lay aside every weight. (Self-imposed duties and responsibilities).What burden, problem, hurt or habit is weighting you down? Get rid of sin; and Set your eyes on Jesus who endured and sat down in the victor's seat! Jesus showed endurance in fulfilling His Father's will to die on the cross. The Father kept His promise and raised Him from the dead to be seated in the ultimate place of victory. CONCLUSION - We have great examples! Praise God for the likes of a Joseph, Caleb, Abraham, David, Joshua, Paul and the other Hebrews 11 heroes of faith who kept on and on! They conquered by enduring. Endurance in His will brings promises to fulfilment. What great encouragement 'If we endure, we will reign with Him!' -2 Timothy 2:12 By endurance we conquer! Praise God for the many others who have endured and left inspiring examples of breakthrough by their endurance. Endurance can make miracles happen: An 8-year-old child heard her parents talking about her little brother.  All she knew was that he was very sick and they had no money left.  They were moving to a smaller house because they could not afford to stay in the present house after paying the doctor's bills.  Only a very costly surgery could save him now and there was no one to loan them the money. When she heard daddy say to her tearful mother with a whisper, Andrew's operation, “Only a miracle can save him now', the child went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jar from its hiding place in the closet.  She poured all the change out on the floor and counted it carefully.  Clutching the precious jar tightly, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to the local drug store.  She took 25 cents from her jar and placed it on the glass counter. “And what do you want?”, asked the pharmacist.  “It's for my little brother”, the girl answered back.  “He's really, really sick and I want to buy a miracle.” “I beg your pardon?” said the pharmacist.  “His name is Andrew, and he has something bad growing inside his head and my daddy says only a miracle can save him.  So how much does a miracle cost?” “We don't sell miracles here, child, I'm sorry”, the pharmacist said, smiling sadly at the little girl.  “Listen, I have the money to pay for it.  If it isn't enough, I can try and get some more.  Just tell me how much it costs”. In the shop was a well-dressed customer.  He stooped down and asked the little girl, “What kind of a miracle does your brother need?”  “I don't know”, she replied with her eye welling up with tears.  “He's really sick and mommy says he needs an operation.  But my daddy can't pay for it, so I have brought my savings”. “How much do you have?”  asked the man.  “I have 25 cents, but I can try and get some more”, she answered barely audibly. “Well, what a coincidence,” smiled the man.  25 cents is the exact price of a miracle for little brothers.”  He took her money in one hand and held her hand with the other.  He said, “Take me to where you live.  I want to see your brother and meet your parents.  Let's see if I have the kind of miracle you need.” That well-dressed man was Dr Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon specializing in Neurosurgery.  The operation was completed without charge, and it wasn't long before Andrew was home again and doing well.  “That surgery”, her mom whispered, “was a real miracle.  I wonder how much it would have cost.”  The little girl smiled.  She knew exactly how much the miracle cost – 25 cents … plus the Endurance and perseverance and faith of a little child.

Plant a seed and reap the harvest you want #2 Plant a seed and reap the harvest you want #2. Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seed you sow (plant). (Because you reap what you sow) By Pastor George Lehman If things are filled with joy and peace, having a great attitude and being fruitful, faithful, reflecting Jesus, keep checking what seeds those were you sowed, to get you to such a courageous, victorious place. So too, if you're regularly miserable, have a bad attitude, always filled with anger, negativity and unforgiveness, just check the seeds you're busy sowing into your life. When you're assessing your harvest, deal with the cause not the symptom. Cause = seeds we're planting. Symptom = harvest we're reaping. Far to many nurse their miserable harvest. The fruit that's on your tree has everything to do with what you're sowing into your life right now. Have you ever wondered why God did not choose something else to create us from?  Like gold, silver, precious stones or wood? But He chose to make us out of the dust of the earth – out of dirt.  Why?  Because soil is capable of growing and developing life, it's a God-given resource for bearing fruit. We are designed to be cultivators, producers and creative centres, empowering us to yield a rich Godly harvest from seeds sown. Unfortunately, some people are passive – waiting for something to happen; even at times, expecting the worst to happen = Just my luck I never win I'm a failure. I can't seem to grow spiritually. I always make bad choices. Things are always difficult and hard for me. Life must just be HARD! These are all lies from Satan! A song called “Que sera sera” which means “Whatever will be, will be. The future's not ours to see”. That's a lie!  The truth is whatever you sow, will be!    You've got unlimited power Ephesians 3:20 (Amp) - Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [Action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to (carry out His purpose and) do superabundantly, far over and above all that we (dare) ask or think (infinitely) beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams). Your heart is ready to receive God's seed.   If you don't like the life, you have right now, you can change the seeds you're sowing. You are never to old to change! That's the beauty of a seed! It contains the power to create the life you want. Seeds meet needs.  No matter how small they maybe they flourish when watered and give them the right climate to live in.  They will eventually come to bloom. Jesus spoke about the mustard seed: Matthew 13:31-32 (Amp) – 31Another story by way of comparison He set forth before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field. 32Of all the seeds it is the smallest, but when it has grown it is the largest of the garden herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and  find shelter in it's branches. The Bible is not a book of rules, but a bag of seeds. All the answers and seeds of greatness lie within it. A seed is basically a copy of the plant it came from.  Jesus by means of the Holy Spirit is the plant from which we received our seed.  We must be reproducing the plant – Jesus. Matthew 5:48 (Amp) - You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity], as your heavenly Father is perfect. The words of the Bible are described as the seeds that, when planted, will surely produce the abundant life. The Higher Life, The Unshakable Life. Here are some simple steps to get started: #1 Chose your harvest. (If you want corn; you plant corn seeds) Decide what kind of ‘HARVEST' you want i.e. What kind of life you truly want. You need to be very clear, and mind made up that you want to grow spiritually and become like Jesus! If you want to have tomatoes in your yard, you don't plant carrot seeds. #2  Plant the seed. (That will produce the harvest you want) This step is all about taking action.  Once you've determined the Godly fruitful harvest you desire. Plant seeds that will produce it. Your words, your choices, your commitments, your diligence, your excellence and your actions are all seeds that with time will produce a bumper harvest. 1 Peter 1:23 (KJV) - Being born again not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God which liveth and abideth forever. The seed we have within us will never die and will produce if we allow it to! Isaiah 55:11 (Amp) - So shall My word be that goes forth out of my mouth:  it shall not return to ME void (without producing any effect, useless) but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. #3  Protect your field. Your heart is the soil of your life, so what goes into your ears, your eyes and your mind goes directly to your heart. The heart can't decide on which seeds are good and which aren't.  The heart is set on automatic pilot – it will accept whatever you put into it. Proverbs 4:23 (Amp) - Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance[watchfulness] and above all that you guard for out of it flow the springs of life. What you plant in it will flow out of it.  It will grow what I sow. Clear out the negative seed that will choke your harvest. Eliminate:  criticism, complaining, bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, unfaithfulness, compromise, excuses, discouragement, judging, fear and failure. Seeds (positive or negative) grow stronger when fertilized with constant repetition. What you keep repeating, you going to be producing.   #4  Don't give up. So many Christians get discouraged by the process and give up just before their harvest comes. This is where perseverance and endurance comes alive. Galatians 6:9 (Amp) - Let us not become weary in doing good for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered.  Love them anyway. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.  Do good anyway. If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.  Succeed anyway. Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.  Be honest and frank anyway. The biggest people with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest people with the smallest minds.  Think bright anyway. The good that you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.  Do good anyway. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.  Build anyway. We will reap if we don't give up.   #5  Harvest it. James 3:17-18 -  But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. If you stay relentless(meedoënloos)… You will reap the reward of your effort. You'll begin to see Godly fruit. You'll be happier, calmer, stronger, kinder, patient, have self control, be faithful. Remember you hold the keys (seeds) in your hands to live the life you desire by choosing the seeds you plant. No one can stop your harvest.  It's up to you!   Genesis 8:22 (Amp) - While the earth remains, seed time and harvest …shall not cease.  

Who wants the full blessing, anointing, power, favour and gifts of God on their lives every day? Plant a seed and reap the harvest you want. #1 By Pastor George Lehman   “Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed.”   Our potential is limitless The fruit we are bearing in our life right now has everything to do with what we have been planting in our life. We all want to hear the words from Father God one day, “Welcome my good and faithful servant”. Your potential to bear lasting effective abundant fruit is limitless. People say, “Everything happens for a reason”.  Have you ever thought about the reason? It's found in another saying: “You reap what you sow.”  No seed, no harvest! Bad seed, bad harvest! Far too many are not reaping the Godly life they want. After the flood, Noah got off the ark. Just imagine what he saw. Destruction and ruin lay before him. It must have felt hopeless to him, until he heard these words from God… Genesis 8:22 (Amp) - As long as the earth remains, seed time and harvest shall not cease. NB!!! This principle stands firm from the day God said it Imagine if we only had 1 avocado seed left in the world all other Avo's had died.  If we planted it, we could supply the whole world with avocados again in a matter of time. That's the power of sowing – seed time and harvest time. In other words, whatever is messed up or ruined in your life can be overcome and rebuilt when you put this amazing principle to work. Fears of failure, living with a negative attitude, or defeat will become a thing of the past when you learn the secret of planting good Godly seed. Consider this - everything in life begins with a seed.  Babies are conceived from seed.  Fruit/vegetables come from seed.  As do flowers and all that God has given us. Even our imaginations are seeds.  Everything tangible in our modern world, TV's, telephones to spaceships was created from the seed of thought.   Even works of art and inventions. The truth is:  Every thought, every word, every decision we make is a seed that shapes the outcome of our lives. What we put out is what we get back.  “Every action has a reaction”. The bible talks about sowing seeds If you want to live a victorious, fruitful, God glorifying life and experience the power to change anything… “Simply plant biblical truth seeds in your heart”. This universal law is totally predictable and works both positively and negatively. We either reap the reward or pay the price for virtually everything we do. The bible says that our hearts and minds are the soil of our lives.  We can grow whatever we plant. Hosea 10:12 said, “Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord, that he may come and shower righteousness upon you.” That's why we have this serious warning Proverbs 4:23 (Amp) - Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance [waaksaamheid/watchfulness] and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life (your harvest). Who you really are!! 2 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV) - Remember this:  Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. What do you really want to reap in your life? If you want a God glorifying, lush, fruitful life as per John 15:8 - “My Father is glorified and honored by this, when you bear much fruit, and prove yourselves to be My [true] disciples. You have to water the seed - Work in it (remove the weeds). - Cultivate it (being disciplined). It's not going to happen by magic, accident or by chance. It happens on purpose. Seeds we sow are powerful things that have the ability to create something out of almost nothing. Have you seen how a plant or flower can just appear or burst through concrete or tar? It just appears through the harshest of surfaces! When you are going through a tough challenge, the odds seem to be against you and victory seems unlikely. Planting the right seeds can breakthrough any ceiling, any limitation or boundary that life has set over us. You have the power within to change Galatians 6:7 (Amp) - For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Sometimes people think they've inherited a bad seed, that they're cursed because members of their family always had the ‘same problem'. Stop asking yourself:  Why do bad things keep happening to me? The fact is: “Nothing just happens”. If you don't like the harvest you're reaping, change the seed you're sowing. Every bad seed may not always be of your own doing, BUT your response to those adversities and difficulties has everything to do with you!!! So, whether it's a thought, word, attitude or action, anything we put our energy into returns to us like a boomerang. We all respect the law of gravity (We won't jump off a 20 story building) or electricity (we won't touch a 100000volt power line), yet we'll take other kinds of risks like defying the law of sowing and reaping. We sometimes believe we can make bad choices and ‘get away' with them. We think it is okay to tell white lies. Cut corners at work. Say one thing and do another. Ignore our known Lose our tempers, gossip, live with unforgiveness and bitterness. It's not that God won't forgive us or loves us less. But HE has set up a system that has established the FACT  “That we will reap what we sow”. So, we can't blame God for the consequences of our own lives. The story of the man who bought a run down dilapidated old farm: Thorns and weeds filled the land.  The house was crumbling apart.  Over the next year the man toiled and laboured furiously.  He rebuilt the house and replanted and cleared the fields. When he was finished, a neighbour came and said, “My, wonderful how you and God turned this farm around.”  To which the farmer replied, “Well, if you had seen the farm 12 months ago, then you know what it looked like when God had it all to Himself!” God has given us the power and responsibility to: - manage our own lives, - take responsibility for our own decisions and - determine our future by “The seeds we sow”.   Make a quality decision right now to- Plant a seed and reap the harvest you want.  

Prayer: living in the presence of God By Pastor George Lehman   God always knows where we are. Are you always aware of His presence? Prayer is the breath of our Spirit man. (Prayer is the very pulse of our spiritual life.)   No pulse in your body equals no life, No Prayer in your spiritual man No life either.   Seeking God through prayer Elliot, a boy aged 10 wrote: “Dear God, I think about you sometimes even when I'm not praying.” This sums up a praying persons life - always in communication with God.   The power of Polly's prayer: There was a pastor who had a parrot.  All the parrot would say was, “Let's pray, let's pray.”  The pastor tried to teach him to say other things but to no avail.  He learned that one of his deacons had a parrot.  The parrot would only say, “Let's kiss.  Let's kiss.”  So, the pastor decided to invite the deacon and his parrot over to his house.  When the deacon arrived, they put the parrots into the same cage to see what would happen.  The deacon's parrot said, “Let's kiss.  Let's kiss.”  The pastor's parrot said, “Thank you, Lord.  My prayers have been answered.” There's great power in prayer. Psalm 46:10 - Be still and know that I AM God… The main objective of seeking God is to draw closer to Him and to know Him more. Prayer places us in the presence of God. Probably the first and most important step to accomplish this is:  PRAYER (The pulse).  If you're not praying, you're straying. Possibly the greatest area most Christians fail in is: “their prayer life”.  YET it is the key to seeking the presence of God. PRAYER is like a diamond – one precious gem with many facets. Some of the different kinds of prayers: Conversational prayer: - Sharing your highs and lows with God (as you would share with a friend). - Just pouring out your heart in honesty before Him. Intercessory prayer: - It's standing seriously in the gap for a specific person/situation. - It's carrying a prayer burden from God in your heart. SOS prayers: They are prayed in an emergency: “Help Lord.”  It's so comforting to know we can call on God in times of trouble. Supplication*(Smeking)  prayers. For many Christians, it's the grocery list prayers all about what I want. Making a serious request to God on important issues. This is something we do regularly. When we bring our family, ministry and work situation before God Focused prayer: (is the diamond): This prayer is seeking God exclusively: - It's not about things; - It's not about people or needs; - It's about Him. -This is seeking prayer. There are many kinds of prayers and many ways to pray like the diamond. We must always remember that God loves it when we seek Him and pour out our hearts to Him. Prayer is never a one-way street.  We must make room for God to speak to us. Psalm 40:1 (NIV) - I waited patiently for the Lord;(he prayed) He turned to me and heard my cry. How did David know God answered him by the outcome of his prayer a two-way communication The base of all prayer is wrapped up in Heb 11:6– where seeking meets FAITH. Hebrews 11:6 (Amp) - But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him.  For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out]. Notice - it does not say who diligently* seek: - His answers - His provision - His healing - His blessings - or what we can get out of Him. BUT, who diligently seek HIM. *diligently = careful; with effort The most important step in prayer is coming to God FIRST – Focused prayer. When you come seeking God in prayer, is He a God far away or is He God living inside of us? Jeremiah 23:23(Amp) – Am I a God at hand, says the Lord, and not a God afar off? For us to have a real effective prayer life, we must know that He is near to us. It's not a casual coming though; it calls for desperate seeking.  Hungry and thirsty = coming diligently carefully and with effort. We often seek in so many other places before we come to God to seek Him first.  Answers to life are only found in Him. The trigger for God-Revelation. Imagine your finger on the trigger of a hunting rifle as you take aim.  You need to pull the trigger for the shot to go off. In the spiritual realm, many Christians are waiting for something to happen, BUT there's a specific trigger that needs to be pulled to release the super-natural. Psalm 46:10 – Be still and know… The trigger for revelation is:  BE STILL - and then the rifle fires AND KNOW -revelation comes and impacts your life and you begin to understand and experience that God is who He says He is. Like Heb 11:6 – seek Him diligently. The devil will oppose any attempt we make to “be still”. He knows we receive awesome power against him. You will never be the same again, you can never be the same again (it's the pulse of your spiritual life) when you decide to seek God in PRAYER First.  Seeking Him first, diligently. When you've placed God first, Be still and knowledge of Him comes. Then we will know how to pray for our needs, our problems, our healing, our blessings, our many answers. What is your prayer life like? Are you living in the presence of God; or do you only have an occasional visit?

Prayer defines Christianity (It's the clear identification mark of a saved life) By: Pastor George Lehman   “True prayer is a way of life, not just for use in cases of emergency. Make it a habit, and when the need arises you will be in practice”  - Billy Graham   Two boys were on their way back from Sunday School, talking about prayer they had learned.  One boy said, “I'm not sure my mommy prays”.  The other said, “My mom prays every night, because when she puts me to bed, I hear her say ‘thank you Lord”. When saying his prayers one night, a little boy was heard to say, “Please God, make Paris the capital of Turkey”.  After repeating it several times, his mother asked why it was so important to him?  He said, “Because that's what I wrote in my Geography exam”.   “There is not in the world a kind of life more sweet and delightful than that of a continual conversation with God.”                                                                      - Brother Lawrence 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (Amp) - Be unceasing in prayer The reason why we need to be unceasing in prayer is: Prayer has infinite power.  And for this reason Satan tries everything to prevent us from praying.  He knows that we are not a real danger when we work and accomplish a great deal – even if it is for the Kingdom of God.  But when we pray much, we invade Satan's dominion and rob him of his captives.  There is nothing Satan dreads so much as our prayers. “Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and an affliction for Satan.”  - Bunyan   “Need we wonder at the lack of power in our prayer when there is such reluctance to make the needful sacrifice in waiting upon God?”   - Andrew Murray James 5:16b (Amp) - The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].   2 Corinthians 5:21 (Amp) – For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin Who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [endued with, viewed as being in, and examples of] the righteousness of God [what we ought to be, approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him, by His goodness]. Prayer is a matchless opportunity, for through prayer we can change everything - ourselves, problems, circumstance and people. Prayer can go where we can't! What an unspeakable grace to be allowed to deal with God in prayer for the blessing and supply of the needs of others.  It is indeed worth living for to know that God will use me as an Intercessor. Out of compassion in action flow these 3 functions of intercession: The action of intervening on behalf of another. Matthew 9:36 – When Jesus saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion. #1  Intercession is serving. It's making oneself available. Jesus our chief intercessor said: Mark 10:44-45 (Amp) - 44And whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.  45For even the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give His life as a ransom for many.   Serve [Greek] in Mark 10:45 is ‘doulos' meaning “in bondage by choice”. You cannot pray effectively for others if you don't have the servant heart of Jesus Christ. Prayer is striking the winning blow.  Service is gathering up the results. When last did you choose to place yourself in bondage to stand in the gap for others? #2 Intercession is fighting. It's being involved in battle. Ephesians 6:18 (Amp) - Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit with all (manner of) prayer and entreaty.  To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people). Dr. Luke the disciple describes the intensity of Jesus' battle in prayer: Luke 22:44 (Amp) - And being in agony*, He prayed all the more earnestly and intently, and His sweat became like great clots of blood dropping down upon the ground. *Agony [Greek]:  A place of contest; a battlefield. When we intercede for others we are engaging in battle on their behalf.  Interestingly, their victory brings blessing to us too! Job 42:10 (Amp) – And the Lord turned the captivity of Job and restored his fortunes, when he prayed for his friends; also, the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. What a greater joy is it not to see God change the circumstances of someone whom you have been praying for!! The enemy is running wild because we are not interceding for those in need.   #3 Intercession is weeping. It's brokenness before God.  Psalm 126:5 “They who sow in tears shall reap in joy and singing. “Tears are water to spiritual seeds we plant in prayer”. The result will be a bountiful harvest from our brokenness. When last did you pray for someone that you shed tears for them? Child of God, God counts on you to take your place before His throne as an INTERCESSOR. Let us ARISE and be conscious of our Holy calling. Take our place and commit to be a prayer warrior for God's Kingdom. In closing: It is not just saying prayers that gets the results BUT it is spending time with father God: - Learning His wisdom; - Drawing on His strength; - Being filled with His anointing; - And living in His love that brings results to our prayers.

Uniting Communion and Worship Hebrews 13:15 - “Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.”   Romans 12:1 (Amp) – I appeal to you therefore, brethren and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Praise comes naturally for us when it costs us nothing, we find it easy to praise God when things are good when we blessed, prospering and helped by God. Isaiah 29:13  - “The Lord says: These people come near to me with their mouth and honour me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught. The bible calls for a SACRIFICE of Praise Real Praise and worship should continue regardless of circumstances. The Sacrifice of Praise comes from a humble heart that has been changed and purified by Jesus. It rises from a Spirit that has chosen to honour God in spite of the pain and hardships that life is causing. Psalm 51:16-17 - “16You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. 17 The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Communion and worship are integral parts of Christian practice Communion is an act of worship (1 Corinthians 11:24) Remembering Christ's sacrifice, we honour Him Our gratitude and humility are offerings to God 1 Corinthians 11:23-26  -23“For I received from the Lord Himself that which I passed on to you [it was given to me personally], that the Lord Jesus on the night when He was treacherously delivered up and while His betrayal was in progress took bread, 24 And when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, Take, eat. This is My body, which is broken for you. Do this to call Me [affectionately] to remembrance. 25 Similarly when supper was ended, He took the cup also, saying, This cup is the new covenant [ratified and established] in My blood. Do this, as often as you drink [it], to call Me [affectionately] to remembrance. 26 For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are representing and signifying and proclaiming the fact of the Lord's death until He comes [again]. Worshiping through Remembrance Communion reminds us of Christ's love (John 3:16) We recall His death, burial, and resurrection Our Memory fuels our worship, inspiring us to praise The Table Prepares Us for Worship Psalm 100:4-5  -“4Go through his open gates with great thanksgiving; enter his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name. 5 For the Lord is always good. He is always loving and kind, and his faithfulness goes on and on to each succeeding generation. We examine ourselves, confessing sin. 1 Corinthians 11:28 - That is why a man should examine himself carefully before eating the bread and drinking from the cup.) - Purified, we approach God with clean hearts We must live as continuous worshipers, fueled by communion Lord, may our communion deepen our worship Help us remember Your sacrifice and love Unite us as one body, worshiping YOU.

Praying creates an impactful life By Pastor George Lehman   “An impactful life is one that has significance in the lives of others. It is impacting your world positively with the talents, gifts and abilities God has blessed you with. So, beginning from where you are, and with what you have, you become relevant to others.”   Prayer is the highest order of business; for it links a powerless human to the creative force of God's sovereign power.   2 Peter 1:12-13 (Amp) 12So I intend always to remind you about these things, although indeed you know them and are firm in the truth that [you] now [hold].  13I think it right, as long as I am in this tabernacle (tent, body), to stir you up by way of remembrance,   Participating in a life of prayer.   When people cease to pray, no matter the reasons, Christians backslide, youth rebel, preachers leave pulpits, missions close and denominations die. “God forbid that our prayer should be a mere leaping out of bed and kneeling down and saying anything that comes first to mind.  On the contrary, may we wait upon the Lord with Holy fear and sacred awe.” -Charles H. Spurgeon Paul understood the results of prayer: Philippians 4:6 (Amp) - Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. There is no doubt that the Apostle Paul was a man who made a difference.  His influence extends far beyond his day; it continues down the centuries up to you and me. Our Praying will do the same for us There is enough evidence in the bible of the value Paul placed on prayer throughout his 13 epistles which he wrote. The more his life influenced people, the more he participated in a life of prayer. The two go hand in hand prayer and influence. Paul's prayer life is most evident in the books (or letters) he wrote while in prison.  (Many people think, ‘well, he had nothing else to do, so he prayed'.) In reality it's not our schedule that keeps us from praying.  It's our failure to understand the importance of daily prayer. Not praying says you don't believe it's very important. “My schedule is so busy today that I need to spend more time than usual in prayer.” - Martin Luther Don't let busy-ness keep you from prayer. We need to pray for direction. Paul, in Acts 9:6, after asking for direction, Jesus gives Paul his first instruction. Acts 9:6 (Amp) - Trembling and astonished he asked, Lord, what do You desire me to do? The Lord said to him, But arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do. Remember, praying for directions doesn't always mean you will receive a complete set of instructions right away. But if you are willing to pray and rely on God's wisdom and direction and guidance and wait patiently as God, over time will make His direction known to you. Praying for the right things. Paul knew the importance and power that comes from strategic prayer.  Paul prayed for spiritual issues for himself and those he prayed for.Most times we have it backward – we pray about physical matters, not realizing that the real battles are fought in the spiritual realm.Paul says in Ephesians 6 “to put on the full armour of God”.  (Note:  all the armour is spiritual) After putting on the full spiritual armour of God.  Paul says then… Ephesians 6:18 (Amp) - Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding on behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people). Paul knew if we win the battle in the spiritual, we can overcome all things in the natural. That's why he prayed for spiritual maturity in Colossians 1:9-11. Colossians 1:9-11 (Amp) - 9For this reason we also, from the day we heard of it, have not ceased to pray and make [special] request for you, [asking] that you may be filled with the full (deep and clear) knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom [in comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God] and in understanding and discernment of spiritual things--  10That you may walk (live and conduct yourselves) in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him and desiring to please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing and increasing in and by the knowledge of God [with fuller, deeper, and clearer insight, acquaintance, and recognition].  11[We pray] that you may be invigorated and strengthened with all power according to the might of His glory, [to exercise] every kind of endurance and patience (perseverance and forbearance) with joy, If people are living as per Colossians 1:9-11 – spiritually right.  Things will always be naturally right. It's not what you have in the natural.  It's what you have IN YOU that counts. 1 John 4:4 (Amp) – Little children, you are of God [you belong to Him] and have [already] defeated and overcome them [the agents of the antichrist], because He who lives in you is greater (mightier) than he who is in he world. Your influence can't help but be felt if you have… The endurance to cope with difficult circumstances and not give up but stay in your season. The patience to live and function around difficult people. The joy to respond to all forms of trials with thankfulness. WOW!!!  Now that's spiritual maturity. Putting God's power to work. How can you experience God's strength and power in your life? How can you become the influential man/woman God desires for you to be? How can you be more faithful and consistent in your prayer life? Here are a few suggestions for putting God's power to work in your life. #1  Desire to grow spiritually mature. Maturity doesn't just happen.  You must desire it and do your part.  If it's going to be, it's up to me. Set time for prayer and then show up for it. #2  Take an honest look at your excuses for not praying. I remind you of the 8 reasons we fail to pray… Worldliness – too worldly, not spiritual. 2. Busyness – making time for everything but not prayer. 3. Distance – Feeling God is far and doesn't hear our prayer. 4.  Ignorance – Know God's word and the promises. 5.  Sinfulness – Sin separates us. 6.  Prideful ness – Thinking I'm okay not to pray. 7.  Inexperience – Practice the spiritual discipline. 8.  Laziness – Just not making time to pray. Ask God to help you overcome these excuses, then do something about changing. #3  Start a prayer list or notebook. It doesn't have to be anything fancy.  Get a diary or daily planner – use anything.  Begin to write a list of people and things to pray for.  Write the scriptures down God gives you.  Be organized as you do business with God and record the answers as they come. #4  Talk to God all through the day. Any concern too small to be turned into prayer is too small to be made into a burden. Prayer is a silent surrendering of everything to God! You can pray while in the car, in the shower, in the gym, in the shop.  God wants us to share all things with Him. #5  Set an initial goal. Start by praying 5-10 minutes a day.  Increase the time if you are praying already. The more time you spend in prayer, the more you'll mature, the more you'll become “One who makes a difference”. I trust that you are convinced that prayer is a vital key to having a life of impact. James 5:16(Amp) - The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].

Let's walk in the light - Pastor Kobus Massyn 29-9-2024 Psalm 18:28 (Amp) -  28For You cause my lamp to be lighted and to shine; The LORD my God illumines my darkness. The lamp…   Matthew 5:16 (Amp) - 16Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven. My light comes from the Lord Psalm 119:105 (Amp) -  Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Proverbs 6:23 (Amp) -  For the commandment is a lamp, and the teaching [of the law] is light, and reproofs (rebukes) for discipline are the way of life, Ephesians 5:8-9 (NIV) - 8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord. 1 Peter 2:9 (ESV) - But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 2 Samuel 22:29 (Amp) -  “For You, O LORD, are my lamp; the LORD illumines and dispels my darkness Job 29:3 (Amp) - When His lamp shone upon my head and by His light I walked through darkness; Give me oil Matthew 25:1-13 (Amp) 1“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps and went to [a]meet the bridegroom. 2Five of them were foolish [thoughtless, silly, and careless], and five were wise [far-sighted, practical, and sensible]. 3For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take any [extra] oil with them, 4but the wise took flasks of oil along with their lamps. 5Now while the bridegroom was delayed, they all began to nod off, and they fell asleep. 6But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! The bridegroom [is coming]! Go out to meet him.' 7Then all those virgins got up and put their own lamps in order [trimmed the wicks and added oil and lit them]. 8But the foolish virgins said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.' 9But the wise replied, ‘No, otherwise there will not be enough for us and for you, too; go instead to the dealers and buy oil for yourselves.' 10But while they were going away to buy oil, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut and locked. 11Later the others also came, and said, ‘Lord, Lord, open [the door] for us.' 12But He replied, ‘I assure you and most solemnly say to you, I do not know you [we have no relationship].' 13Therefore, be on the alert [be prepared and ready], for you do not know the day nor the hour [when the Son of Man will come]. My lamp is what matters 2 Corinthians 12:9-10  (Amp) - 9but He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough-always available-regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me. 10So I am well pleased with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, and with difficulties, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak [in human strength], then I am strong [truly able, truly powerful, truly drawing from God's strength]. Matthew 5:14a - “You are the light of the world. John 8:12 - When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Luke 2:30-32 - 30For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” John 9:5

My free will is allowing God's will - By Pastor Kobus Massyn John 18:1-11 1When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it. 2Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. 3So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. 4Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” 5“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) 6When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said. 8Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.” 9This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.”  10Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.) 11Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” Luke 22:47-51 47While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, 48but Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” 49When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?” 50And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. 51But Jesus answered, “No more of this!” And he touched the man's ear and healed him. Exodus 21:6 'Then his master shall bring him to God [that is, to the judges who act in God's name], then he shall bring him to the door or doorpost. And his master shall pierce his ear with an awl (strong needle); and he shall serve him for life. Matthew 6:14-15 'For if you forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins], your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others [nurturing your hurt and anger with the result that it interferes with your relationship with God], then your Father will not forgive your trespasses. ' Colossians 1:14 'In whom we have redemption [because of His sacrifice, resulting in] the forgiveness of our sins [and the cancellation of sins' penalty]. ' 2 Peter 1:5-9 5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.