Preparation for Tribulation
There are many confusing ideas about what the tribulation period is and who will be going through it. Many terms are given that describe this type of trouble in the scriptures. There is general tribulation and then the Great Tribulation. A distinction needs to be made also about other times written about in the Bible such as Jacob's Trouble, The Wrath of God, The Wrath of the Lamb, and the Day of the Lord. Each one will have it's own certain trials individually and world over. At the least it is important to know what is needed to be able to "endure to the end" (of the present age) before the Kingdom appears bringing in the Age to come. Even though the times of tribulation are increasing as the "day" gets closer we need to know what we can do to survive physically and spiritually. It may not sound positive but we should see and relate to this pressure and stress as a catylist to bring to maturity the faithful ones ( called elect or Sons) and show forth God's glory. I will explain as we go from here.
First of all we need to realize that Jesus told us that we would continually have tribulation in this world; John 16:33. He also stated that through him we are able and actually required to overcome the world, the flesh and the evil one. Here are a couple of reasons that we should consider as to why it is necessary to endure these trials and learn to rise above (overcome) them. The main one is that Satan is the god of this world. His influence will increase until at the time of the end, as scripture relates, he will become increasingly angry and have even more evil influence as his time grows short. He is always going to kill, steal and destroy the earth that YHWH created including it's inhabitants. The whole planet is subjected to corruption and defilement until Jesus brings forth the glory of the Kingdom, [in a remnant of faithful ones; Romans 8 ]. The enemy wants to deceive people and interfere with Yahweh's will. He will mainly try to prevent the Kingdom of God from becoming operational in the earth and in Yahweh's people. He took what God created as good and perverted it through lies and deception to circumvent the ultimate, prime directive of the earth and it's population which is to become as/like Christ. It seems that I need to cover many different tangents as I write each part of the message so please be patient
There are many passages in the Word of God that show us how and why we are to make it to the end of this age as we go through the fires of affliction. Some scholars and prophets call this a time of judgment and others say that we will be tested and proven in love. "Mercy triumphs over judgement is a good Word to remember in these trying times". Yahweh chastens those whom He would receive as mature Sons; Heb.12; John 1:12. No matter what label we place on it there will be a time that is going to bring about the most devastating trials the earth has ever experienced; Matt.24: 21-22. Here it a very simple explaination as to why this testing will be completed. When we read about the two buildings that go through the fire in 1 Corinthians 3:11-17, it is apparent that only those who have attained the full stature of Christ and produce the works and fruit of the Spirit will stand. The works of the flesh are burned like chaff. There are rewards that are gained or lost depending upon how we live our lives as believers. Have we allowed the Spirit preeminence to purify our hearts as well as direct our action;s helping us to do the perfect will of God? These are precious lewels that glorify the Father. This also relates to the judgment seat of Christ in the scriptures. I would comment here that I see the Great Tribulation as a different significance and timing as the wrath of God which comes after the Great Tribulation.
Yahshua/Jesus told us that we should be of good cheer when we go through tribulations for he has already overcome the world. Our relationship with YHWH through Christ's atonement and example gives us our spiritual strength and authority to accomplish this goal. This happens through those who are filled with God’s Spirit and authority and who take advantage of their heritage through faith in the name of the Lord. It takes discipline and endurance to complete the transforming work; spirit, soul and body that will make us worthy to enter into the Kingdom with total victory over sin and self; 2 Peter 1. The remnant who have endured the refining process will become a light shining brighter in the impending darkness, illuminated by the glory of YHWH. These are the teachers of righteousness who will shine forth as the firmament spoken of in Daniel. We read of Elisha, Elijah and Enoch They are the fore runners to show us our destiny and that if it was obtainable in the Old Covenant how much more we have the ability to suceed.
Many places in the Bible we are told that we already possess the position in the inner man that will bring forth the revealing of Christ in me the hope of glory. We can get in touch with our new life in Christ as we discard and crucify the old life, our flesh. It is an exchange of the natural, soul life for the truth of the Spirit Spiritual existence. We must make a commitment to vacate the world’s system (Babylon) in our hearts now and take up our citizenship in heaven for we are in the world not of it. It should be more plain as you read this that our preparation will be spiritual first where we are given the abiltiy to abide in the secret place of the Most High while the terrors of the world are happening all around us.
Many false foundations and doctrines of our belief system need to be judged and replaced. There are strongholds that are now being torn down through warfare in the spirit. All will need to choose to totally leave the lusts of mammon behind. It will soon become apparent in many lives which master they are serving. I have heard the Lord say more clearly/sternly lately that we should consider it (Babylon) gone in our hearts; first because those who rule this world are not going to let us continue much longer if you can see their agendas. Second, because when we received the Lord we should have given all that we own and are to Him. I always say; "the bad news to many is that Babylon is falling but the Good News for us is that Babylon is falling." There is a subtle slavery that the modern world system has placed upon all of mankind that will be broken off at a particular time. The warning goes out to not hold onto the indulgences of this economic materialistic entity.
Christ said that these last days would be as in the days of Noah. The time of purging iniquity from the earth through the great flood mirrors this time of cleansing fire called the Great Tribulation. Decadence in the earth has increased greatly in the past few years or at least is "in our faces". The great falling away from the truth and love is evident which points directly to the state of the church. The world never has sought nor held onto any truth. The nominal/carnal church is not far from this testimony and faces being judged with the world. We have been warned that judgment starts in the house of God’s chosen people. There will be an increase of the expedient to expose and remove the convenient compromise. I want to make clear that I am showing there is a higher level of salvation-to the uttermost. Spiritual and carnal, sheep and goats, faithful and rebellious are divided asunder. If we are able to come out “Babylon” (all the world’s systems) with it’s temptations of the flesh and live in the power of the Holy Spirit we’ll be given the direction and protection in the troubled times that Noah’s ark represents.
The earth/world will again be cleansed of all things that offend to make it ready for the Lord’s return to set up the Kingdom. Before that happens we will experience the shaking of all things in heaven and earth...to prepare the way of the Lord. When we hear that great anquish will come upon the whole world we must also see it as upon all flesh because we need to become purified to be vessels of honor in His household. If we expect to be partakers of great glory we must have the fruit of humility/righteousness abiding and emanating from us. This means that we will experience the distruction of physical, social, economical and even spiritual systems of man and the enemy but also any false thong that we hold onto personally. The dross must be burned out for He is like a refiners fire and a fuller's soap (whitening agent). 2 Tim. 2:20-22 shares about the vessels of honor who purify themselves to gain a higher level of supernatural life.
The story of Noah relates that it rained for forty days and nights. Forty represents the number of judgment or probation. God gave all the people warnings until the time of the deluge was at hand. He actually caused it to rain seven days beforehand as an incentive to prepare. This symbolizes the seven days of testing that most believe the Great Tribulation covers. Until that final period we still will see the increase exponentially of troubles in the earth so it's difficult to actually pinpoint if we are in it now. The Lord has given us signposts to confirm when we reach that point which I explain in other chapters. There will be literal, symbolic and spiritual manifestations. Many believers use Noah’s story as their affirmation that they will be lifted away during these troubled times. It actually shows us the sparing amount of those who qualify for protection in the midst of the deluge.
The ark represents the covering which can be seen either individually as the glorified body or corporately as the community of believers in a place of safety through the time of testing and judgment. Only a remnant will attain to this Divine status. We know God’s heart; that He wants none to perish. He waits patiently to be gracious to any who would call upon His name. Again, I repeat that there is a greater level of maturity/stature for us to complete to gain this covering - the protection of the Secret Place of the Most High, Psalm 91. This song put to music as well as others taken from scripture are shared on our Web site Verilyministry.com.
The missing fact that many Christians miss is the huge difference in attainment from the seed to the harvest - from just being saved to the completion of our stature in Christ. Regrettably, the worldly church has taught that just being "born again" will qualify them for the rewards of those who have overcome (referred to as the “rapture”). This is why the Lord gives us prayers to help us in the last days. Luke 21:26 states; Watch therefore and pray always that you may be accounted worthy to escape the things which are coming to pass in the earth and to stand before the son of man. The definition in the Strong’s concordance for escape is to flee not to disappear. The woman of Revelation 12 is taken on eagles wings and protected in the wilderness spiritually and probably literally for 3 1/2 years after the Manchild (Sons of God) is born.
In Matthew 24:37-44, Jesus relates this event that parallels Noah’s journey as the division between the righteous and those who are not. Those who wouldn’t listen to the warning or leave behind the lusts of the world were swept away. They are the unwise who desired the riches, security and prestige found in systems of mankind. Then the windows of heaven were opened up and there was a great torrent of waters. This is another witness of the time of trouble and the resulting judgment upon all of mankind. Now there is no longer any allowance for repentance. Our lives should have started on a foundation of repentance before we could go on unto perfection. We are to contunually replace the "old carnal/flesh man" with the "new spiritual man" through Christ/anointing in us.
This same scenario is written for the future Day of the Lord as seen in Revelation chapter 11. Those who are wise will put away all things that are sinful in thought or deed and allow the Lord to wash them clean; purifying them to become fit to enter the Kingdom bodily - while alive. Those who are bent upon practicing their evil ways will continue in their sorcery and rebellion. The final division between light and darkness is accomplished. At a specific point in time when iniquity is made full the “door” will be closed that no man can open to enter into safety. The faithful who prepare themselves body, soul and spirit have chosen to serve YHWH with their whole heart. They will not be caught unaware. 1Thess.5:4 states; But you brethren,are not of darkness so that this Day should overtake you as a thief.5 You are sons of light and the sons of the day. We are not of the night or darkness.6 Therefore do not sleep as others do, but let us watch and be sober.
In Hebrews chapter 11 Noah is listed as one of those men who is accounted as righteous by faith. This means that he believed and acted upon the Word spoken by the Father. Even though he did not see any evidence of the flood for many years he labored to complete the mission he was given. His preparation was done through faithful endurance, not observing circumstances or getting the opinions of men. In his obedience he had to condemn the world to not be judged with it. He was not swayed by the ridicule/persecution he received. This is our time of decision to do the same. There is a plumb-line for believers that is drawn before the time of judgment. Yahweh’s chosen ones will be sealed with His Mark and Satan’s with his; [the Mark of the Beast]. We are warned that the wrath of God comes upon the children of disobedience, Col.3:6. True Sons will allow their Father to chasten/ disipline them in all areas. A lot of what the tribulations will do is to bring repentance at a deeper level.
Yahweh has provided a way of escape and protection for those who draw near to receive the covering of the Spirit. This is not found in doctrines of legalistic “touch-not taste-not” but through discipline in righteousness. We are to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. What we are on the inside will always show itself in our actions and attitudes when we are under pressure. What we are on the inside will always show itself in our actions and attitudes when we are under pressure. This is what iniquity represents to have faults or flaws that are hiddden. [See the Two Mysteries chapter]. We must be sober and vigilant which includes allowing our inner man to be exposed to the light. Take heed to yourself,lest at anytime your hearts be overcharged (burdened)with surfeiting(overindulgence)and drunkenness and the cares of this life, and so that Day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the earth; Luke 21:34-5.
If we translate a few of the words of this scripture differently we find appropriate meaning for this day and age. Where it says over indulgence we can interject materialism. Some may not touch liquor but their bodies show they have succumbed to gluttony. Too much time and funds are wasted chasing after leisure activities i.e. entertainments. 2 Cor.7:1Therefore having these promises beloved let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit perfecting Holiness in the fear of God. This is the exhortation to God’s people first but many think that they are not going to be caught as judgment is dealt upon mankind. When all things in the heavens and earth are being shaken loose; the more we are holding onto tightly, the more painful the separation will be.
Many can relate to the “gerbil in the cage” mentality where their time and energy is all consumed by consuming. We must change our lifestyle to decrease our worldly goods and appetites (lusts), now. We have to understand that there is no security given to us by men or any system. Soon we all will have to face losing everything to hopefully avoid being entrapped in the One World Government. The choices made now will affect you and your family for the next several years and possibly eternity. What can you share or get rid of that can be sold or used for the sake of the Body of Christ? Could you take the bus, ride a bicycle or especially walk to your destination? It is good practice to grow a garden or find any of your own food through hunting and fishing or even digging plants from a roadside ditch.
I have considered the warnings of the watchmen and have been changing my needs and wants. Many things I would like to own I have to say no to because of income but lately my answer is for expedience sake that I go without. I’m selling or giving away many items at this moment and I hope others will prepare as well because time is running short before the snare is set. I ask the Lord daily how to prepare and be sensitive to His leading for myself and the others He is gathering together in a community of faith. As we move towards a simple and responsible lifestyle I believe that our mental and physical health will be restored.
This artificial economy is cranking away with disposable goods but common sense would expect people to acquire lasting things of quality that bring pride of accomplishment to the maker. It can't last forever so when Babylon comes crashing down we will have to recreate an economy with a community purpose and function in mind. Cooperation rather than competition is God’s perspective. Joining together with others will also make us appreciate the talents and gifts in each person. Everyone has a valuable function in the whole group through sharing labor and ideas. How many artists or craftsmen do you know making a living by what they create, now? They aren’t appreciated in our throwaway society of mass (re)production. Soon the "old ways" and values will be sought after.
Our forefathers lived in a more simple world. They used things in their natural state to produce food, clothing and shelter. They were in tune with Yahweh’s provision and blessings in the earth as caretakers/stewards who didn’t destroy and deplete resources just to make a buck. We spend many hours watching commercials and shopping for such frivolous items. We hardly have a clue as to where to begin in denying ourselves superflous items that are deemed necessary in this wasteful culture. Just look in a second hand store to see all the junk that people have purchased just to become worthless and thrown out later.
Modern society has caused us to be ignorant of our real basic necessities. We are conditioned to be careless or selfish with our finances putting off responsibility through easy credit and all the various temptations of the flesh. Many have a spending addiction trying to make themselves feel good and in control instead of tuning in to their deeper needs. In the light of how most of our brethren live in the third world countries do we ever think of meeting their daily needs when we rationalize our lusts for frivilous things? Many of these goods are made with slave labor of our Christain brothers and sisters.
We must get serious and seek the Lord about our future. Many will panic just having to do without modern conveniences. I have heard people say that they do not want to continue living if they can’t shop at the mall or other equally shallow pursuits. My husband Dave had a dream of us ministering this type of message to a group of Native Americans. We shared what was coming and how to prepare for survival. They had a good concept of tribal community and took the warning seriously as a unified group. Their response was to get rid of their modern conveniences and return to the simple life of their ancestors. Dave related that they went further than expected and took all man made things outside the camp and trashed them, including vehicles and appliances. In this dream a new song went out among the people. Hope and dignity were restored.
On the surface, the plan of the elite looks very good. We do need to curtail the reckless depletion of our natural resources. Water,gas, wood and other energy sources will soon become hard to find as natural and political disasters abound. Plagues and famines are just around the corner for all inhabitants of the earth. There are many things looming on the horizon that will annihilate our cushy lifestyle that we have been so wrapped up in. I know that so-called energy or economic crises will be used to manipulate the masses while causing the economy of many areas to be crushed. It would only take a week or two to ruin the modern world if the electricity went out permanently. See Dave's message called "Three Minutes to Lights Out".
Most must realize that they will lose their 401Ks, health insurance and retirement plans even if they are sanctioned by Christian financial advisors. The time will soon be upon us when homes and goods will be confiscated for many reasons. Pieces of paper that say we own anything or have any promise of protection will be superseded by the political “powers that be”. This will eventually include global programs, dictates of the U.N., or foreign troops occupying parts of our country. Scripture tells us that eventually no one can buy or sell without the Mark of the Beast. Even those who continue in a self preserving or independent lifestyle will eventually lose everything. We are called to spiritual strength through unity.
There will be no more compromise or denial for fence sitters. We can't make our camp with the enemy of our souls. Jesus spoke of the wealthy man putting grain into his barn. He was financially secure for many weeks ahead but that couldn’t protect him, for his life ended that night. There is one phrase that sums it up as far as man’s level of corruption. The love of money is the root of all evil. This motivation of greed and control has and will cause governments to sell people’s souls for their share in the spoils. “Follow the money”, has been increasingly spoken of as the explanation behind world events. It will eventually keep all people in the global bondage of merchandising.
Our giving and living must be more expedient and increase as we mature in our experience of faith. We are to never be afraid about tomorrow nor allow condemnation to haunt us about yesterday. Our fellowship should be ongoing, assuring us the joy and provision of Yahweh’s presence. This makes people angry but those who believe that they are going to be removed from this earth soon should actively make plans to transfer assets to us who are planning on enduring to the end. But realistically, in preparing for the times ahead it is a better investment to place our abundance of goods or finances at the “Apostle’s feet” to provide for the whole body. There are ways that we can come together in one accord and purpose to help each family to get untangled from this web of deception and slavery to the Almighty dollar.
The bottom line in God’s economy is “the good of all”. What will be our response and responsibility when our brothers and sisters lose their jobs or homes? We can practice allowing the Lord, through His Body in the earth, to provide on some level. Why not begin to help the brethren to get out of debt or build communities to share the daily burden of simple living while we can work in the daylight? Our strength is magnified as we come together in unity and appropriate the anointing/covering of YHWH’s presence in our midst.
We will need to make plans to be out of the system before the enemies’ trap is fully closed. The god of this world has a few years left to try to deceive and destroy the inhabitants of the earth. At the same time believers will grow in the ministry and authority of releasing the land into God’s dominion again while appropriating cleansing and deliverance from the curses and sins that have defiled it. This should be done over all our property. Then our dominion will expand to neighborhoods and cities and surrounding areas to redeem things back to the Lord’s use. This is the reiteration of Jesus’ word telling us to bring salvation to Jerusalem, Judea and then all the outer parts of the earth where our lives have influence. God’s people will be restored through this blessing; then the whole earth will be given over to the authority of the Father as the Kingdom is manifested.
Back to Noah. In Matthew 24:37-44 we read that those who are not paying attention to the things of the Spirit but are serving mammon are the unwise who will be swept away. This is one scripture that has been misunderstood because Yahsha/Jesus talks of those taken to where the eagles gather. Eagles are like vultures that feast upon carrion (carnal means meat). I believe that the ark is also a “type” of the resurrection because it had eight inhabitants (eight symbolizes resurrection). Those who entered the ark of God’s covering were protected during the rising flood. They remained on the earth but were riding it out in a higher plane. Just as Adam and Eve were commanded to replenish the earth, Noah’s family represents the seed/ remnant that God used to establish His covenant after the cleansing of earth was complete.
The sign of the rainbow that came after the flood symbolically points to the full stature of Christ as the essence of light in its prismatic reflections of color. It can be seen in the sky after the rain when sunshine refracts it’s multi-facetted light in the atmosphere. In Noah’s account it was shown by Yah as a promise to not bring forth another world wide flood to destroy the earth. Next time it will be fire. This rainbow represents the fullness of the Spiritual mantel because it has all of the spectrum of light, seen and unseen, showing the glory of the Lord shining in His manifested Sons. This stature of authority was shown in the multicolored robe of Joseph. He was hidden and tested for a few years. Then he was placed strategically into the hierarchy of Egypt to help his brethren in the tribulation type of seven years.
We see a parallel time to these accounts as the world is purged of all iniquity and dominion is obtained over the enemies of God. In reading of the horrible things that will take place in the earth at the end one thing stands out; that multitudes of people will be killed in the process so that humanity itself will become scarce. We know that Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy and when his time is short he will be enraged. He will be most angry at those who are overcoming his deception and leading others to do the same. He knows those who are the Lord’s and will be behind the scenes fanning the flames of persecution and destruction of the lives of millions of Christians. Even firey trials can be used for YHWH's good for those who love Him as they overcome the enemy by rejoicing in all tribulations.
Those who have learned to die to their flesh and walk in the Spirit will only see the reward of iniquity while abiding in the secret place. The flesh, world and the evil one are to be put beneath our feet before the Kingdom will be manifest. The trials of our faith produce strength to overcome and slay the enemy. By focusing upon the perilous economic situation here I'm trying to link the perversion that we call our existance that has pulled God's people off task and weakened their faith and testimony. People have been caught up into a "machine" where they cannot get free that is sucking the life out of them and they don't even know it.
We cannot just speak of physical survival for we know that there must be spiritual strength while abiding in Yahweh. There will be no place to hide except in the secret place of the Most High. In fact we can identify Psalm 91 with end-time events showing us the higher spiritual level of “immunity” necessary for Divine protection; being covered under the shadow of His wings. To totally dwell/be covered in the Lord takes wholeness of heart leading us to perfection and Holiness. The testimony of the three Hebrew men in the fiery furnace in Daniel’s day will be seen in true believers who will not be touched by the flames of the fiery trials. The forth man, the Son of God, will endure with them.
It is good to practice/rehearse the simple things each day of learning to draw near to abide in YHWH. The faithful supply of our heavenly Father gives us confidence and faith for tomorrow and the ability to overcome all fear. He wants us to be happy and whole but especially strong in His might by the Spirit in our inner man. Yahshua said that he came to give us life abundantly. It has already been provided in the spiritual realm but we must bring things into "manifestation" by partaking of the blessings and promises through faith. Our believing and trusting through obedience brings them into our experience as physical reality...the word of our testimony. This is how Abraham received his inheritance.
When we finally see that YHWH is not holding out on us or waiting for us to get the right formula our faith will become simple and pure as a child's. We can only discover the Truth in close relationship with Him and others. We can give thanks when our prayers seem unanswered or our faith weak knowing that He has given us the grace to overcome. We receive first, then give with expectation and joy. Faith sees beyond/through the problem. We must keep our focus upon His everlasting mercy but also be that example to others. That is actually the core of the Commandments/Law of Love. This power will set the captives free. When we walk in love we can continually give thanks with humility for His abundance of Himself given to us to serve others as a testimony to the world.
We all know that there are many believers who are living with addictions and besetting sins but I call them the walking wounded. I have had the responsibility in ministry to privately confront those who have fallen and the response was always thankfulness for helping them to overcome. I think that God's heart cries out when He sees any need or desire to overcome faults yet we are the vehicle that is to bring the release of the captives. He spoke that when the perfect ones are revealed in perfection/glory then they can judge. We have to be willing to carry one another's burdens. When the corporate strength in YHWH is brought forth we will see great healing and deliverance, body, soul and spirit. Mercy truimphs over judgment.
Most Christians are not willing to trust God for any of their livelihood and provision and subsequently leave no opportunity to help them. Some complain that their time is taken up with managing their luxuriant lifestyle that they have little time for the Lord. This stunts the growth of faith and fellowship with the Lord. I'll say again that it isn't prosperity when you are in debt up to your eyeballs. Those who walk in the Spirit shall not desire the lusts of the flesh,(Gal. 5). When things are put in order where we are serving Him first, He is our only source of sustenance. That doesn’t mean we keep confessing and visualizing new homes or cars. Our confession is in Him and who we are in Him not just in what He gives. When He has possession of us we will have the proper confession...with signs and wonders that follow. A change will result where materialism grows less important and you find many things unnecessary or superficial/temporal.
We have lost the directive of leaving behind the world’s enticements to walk in His strength only. We can realize how many more material possessions we have than any other culture in the history of the world. These things cannot keep us safe and are actually a snare. God said that if we seek first the Kingdom and His righteousness that all things will be added to us. I think it means material and Spiritual provision in simplicity. I certainly feel that a great part of the falling away is precipitated by the comforts of the modern economy. Having riches is not evidence of spirituality infact the Bible states the opposite. How can we trust the Lord alone when we are chasing after material possessions and status? It makes sense to rethink some of the basic principles that Yahshua and the Apostles taught.
The "god of this world" is working overtime to entrap us with various lusts and not just financial. Most, if not all of our possessions, haven’t really come from God's provision but are from our own decisions and resources to gain status or other goals. We would live an entirely different way if we allowed Him to give us everything. The entrapments of the riches of the world are to be dealt with now or they will perhaps cause people to look back longingly at the time of decision/destruction as Lot’s wife did. Wearing the latest fashions or driving a newer car has kept us from the important things. Have we forgotten that God HATES the haughty look? We should have left "Egypt" on our journey towards the Promised Land but it will take courage and diligence to get "Egypt" out of our hearts.
James warns us that to be friends with the world makes us enemies of God. Jesus ministered among the poor and needy. His total source physically, emotionally and spiritually was abiding in and doing the Father’s will. Why would he tell the rich young ruler to do something that he wasn’t willing to do himself? I don’t feel that Christ had a huge amount of personal revenue nor did he live a wealthy lifestyle. He would not have believed in worldly investments for he said the wise should store their treasures in heaven. I can see this “Bull Market”as representing the golden calf; a false idol diversion from the true refined gold of perfection in God. Those who walk in the power of Holiness will be able to multiply bread. No one will need health insurance when the great physician is operating in our lives. Getting back to our natural life in the land will help cleanse and heal us, too.
The Lord said in Proverbs,” He gives us power to get wealth to establish His covenant”. What we own and who we are needs to be shared freely as we proclaim the Gospel and witness to the world. Whatever we do unto the least of our brethren (including finances) we do unto Jesus as well because we are all inter connected. Christ prayed that we would be one like the special relationship that he has with his Heavenly Father. If our citizenship is in heaven our focus and loyalties should be there also. As the Body of Christ comes together in unity we must help release one another to get out from under the burdens of this merchandising society called Babylon because much persecution will come from this system just as it did from Rome in the first century.
The first century church held all things in common. Those who had an abundance shared or sold what they felt necessary for the good, “welfare”, of all by their free will. This is a good form of socialism/communism with each part providing for the needs of the whole group not by force, but grace. Our ideas about “communism” have been perverted because of the terrible legacy of an atheistic and tyrannical elite controlling the commodities and people of several countries in the modern world. As we look back upon history we’ll see that capitalism that we idealize as such a blessings in our society will prove to be the opposite case for much of the earth’s ruin has come from the mass production of disposable goods. Many industries are already controlling the world governments and economy. Most nations of the world hate us because of the enforced slavery used to produce cheaper merchandise and enforce "free trade".
Some people feel that the things happening in the world are not from God but the consequences of our own choices and sinfulness. We have to remember that Satan is the "god of this world" and does everything he can to destroy and pervert the plan of YHWH our Heavenly Father; who created all things good. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. In another chapter I share about the principle of reaping and sowing which is a spiritual law in effect.for every person. We can look upon the world and be disgusted with their blatant decadence but God will judge His people first and foremost. Actually, we are judging ourselves now, with the light that the Lord gives us through the personal conviction of the Holy Spirit or the Words of the prophets in rebuke and discipline in the body of Christ. Later we will face the Judgment Seat of Christ to expose all the things/deeds that we did in this life.
The first step away from God is the serving and worshipping of the creature instead of the Creator which can happen in any generation, country, home or heart. We do not stand alone for what we say and do affects all those around us. We are to let our light shine before men so that they may see our Father. Romans 1: 23- 2:11 confirms; And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a debased mind and to things that should not be done. Skipping to 2:6 For He will repay according to each ones deeds: to those who by patiently doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; 8 while those who are self-seeking and who obey not the truth but wickedness there will be wrath and fury.
We look upon this problem as the false idols that many of the heathen of the world pay homage to. Yet there is greater significance when comparing this scripture to another one in Ezekiel for it plainly states that prosperity caused people to be drawn away from God in their hearts. The idle gods were as prominent as false idols. We see the righteous anger of the Lord against Sodom and Gomorrah and have an expectation of His wrath against the sins of this country. In Ezekiel 16 we read about the three sins of Sodom. We always have seen this city as lecherous and perverted but these are the symptoms/result of another evil root. Beginning at verse 49 This was the guilt of your sister Sodom:she and her daughters have pride, excess food,and prosperous ease, but did not aid the poor and the needy.50 They were haughty and did abominable deeds before me; therefore I removed them when I saw it.
Will we look back upon this generation’s use of television, movies or computer games and say that they have been a help or hindrance to the overall state of the church let alone the world? We know the standards of morality and decency have been eroded by the moguls of Hollywood. The church wants to be entertained, too. We are going to have to put away all those things that offend. Another consideration to ponder is that the basic elements in electronics are from silicon, a type of stone and possibly a symbolism of the Beast system.
It will take a lot to shake us enough so that we will readily let go of the “treasures” of mammon. It will be a shock to bring ourselves into a simple lifestyle and especially to function at a bare survival mode when things fall apart economically and socially. Even with some mental and physical preparations it will be difficult because we have lost touch with the menial existence of our ancestors. God is not wanting to withhold the comforts of life but He doesn’t want us to spend all of our time and energy chasing after material things. How many relationships are let go or put under stress because of all of the “running” we do chasing after the status quo. Even trying to keep up with the increase of knowledge has kept us so busy we have lost the simplicity of life.
Independence in many cases is not freedom but bondage because a person is left alone and unconnected from the Body of believers who would share and grow in unity and corporate strength. The whole burden of purchasing and maintaining property and possessions falls upon each household in our society. Much time and energy is used to keep ahead of rising debts. Credit is so easy to get but doesn’t do anything but raise the cost of what you buy and delay financial responsibility. It is driven by the lust of the eyes, flesh and pride of life.
The enemy wants us to be fractionalized and standing alone with the burdens of life. Two attitudes prevail ... we shouldn’t have to be called upon to share with others or we can’t trust God or His people to help with our own needs. Be aware that in the near future a type of debtor’s prison will be set up entrapping many.
Great wealth is just as wanton as poverty. Actually wealth can be considered as theft if to become rich you must take another person’s share of goods or income. Many poor people or nations are exploited because of the greed of a few. Think of a Monopoly game where one person ends up owning the property and the rest are squeezed out. Competition is a very ungodly attitude and activity. Our lifestyle should be seen from the perspective of having all that you need provided daily by the Lord through and for the whole Body of Christ. Jesus wouldn’t ask us to do something that he was unwilling to do. As he laid down his life the power of YHWH flowed through him with healing and deliverance to the multitudes. I believe that the money bag that Judas was in charge of (according to tradition) was used for whatever needs arose, not just for the chosen few, but those they ministered to along the way.
I’m sure most of you already know what the Lord thinks about usury or the compounding of interest. It is forbidden to be levied among brethren and strongly warned against in many passages for His people to borrow from the world’s corrupt system. Many families will be sent out in the cold to fend for themselves when the banking system turns on them demanding full payment or when they face foreclosure unless they take the Mark of the Beast. Even those who “own” their homes are in danger of losing them not just because of taxation but because there are many Executive Orders in place that declare that all property especially farms be under the government’s jurisdiction in the event of a national emergency.Titles to land and even irrevocable trusts are just not going to be security for anyone. Property will never be completely yours under this governmental jurisdiction.We are continually taxed and must get titles and licenses for things that we would declare as ours.
Just like in Nazi Germany, the papers that give people the right to anything will eventually be worth nothing. When martial law is put in effect people will be forced from their homes and driven to work camps or worse. They will promise us peace and safety as they place us in "greener pastures" (plantations). The people behind the scenes controlling the world’s commodities are waiting for the opportune moment for the trap to be set. Supposedly they will bring order from chaos. It is not very far off for we already see the signs.
Am I scaring you? I am sharing the possibilities so that in being wise many will perhaps have a contingency plan in the back pocket. This includes having an emergency route of escape with a predetermined destination (wilderness). If you cannot believe that God is telling us to change our way of living now then at least be watching and learning to see the warnings as events unfold in front of our eyes. Seek the Lord and know where He is directing you to go when the time comes. . It is a good idea to discuss and pray about these things with other strong believers who are likewise preparing for the years of lack like Joseph did.
Even though we know that many are repenting and preparing their hearts to be able to endure the turbulent days ahead we have been assured that those who are faithful in the Lord will be persecuted at some level personally and as a group so we must learn to stand strong with one another Yet in all of this, even though we know there will be a glorious return of Christ to set up his Kingdom in the earth we must not desire the Day of the Lord nor wish for it to come soon. It is darkness and turmoil for the inhabitants of the earth. .
The opportunity is great in these troubled times to be a witness to the lost world. This will happen as the testimony/witness of the church increases through their various afflictions. Don’t ignore the warnings of the watchmen/prophets who have seen visions and dreams for decades that show the terrible times of chaos upon the earth confirming scriptures to be fulfilled in God’s timing. God has been delaying/staying judgment wanting all to come to the knowledge of truth in Holiness/maturity
Although the Lord has used the systems of man for blessing us or even for His discipline, it is not His best way. The many laws of man will never replace the simplicity of God’s law. He meets us where we are at because of His great mercy but wants us to come up higher. He can also use corrupt governments (like the ruler Cyrus when Israel was disobedient) for chastening purposes. Don’t forget that Jesus said his kingdom was not of this world. Our warfare and inheritance is in heavenly/ spiritual realms not by flesh and blood. The Messiah of God will rule with a rod of iron along with his chosen ones in the Kingdom of God. I know that at some time in the future the land will be released back to the Lord’s use for we have already been promised that the meek shall inherit the earth. We must pray and believe for God’s righteous government to be established in our hearts first. His law is written upon our hearts.
Only the Lord’s faithful people will have peace in the midst of turmoil. These things cannot hurt us unless we have placed our trust in them. Those who are spiritually minded will not waiver from their mission. We must recognize not just the lies of the world but the false doctrines and traditions causing the church to be lulled into false security. Apathy and apostasy are two signs of the end-times. Indifference as well as rebellion causes hardness of heart. We cannot expect God to show Himself strong in our lives when we have not released everything into His care. He shows Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are perfect towards Him
A powerful testimony of this is the principle of the first need. Some examples are shared in a biography of Rees Howells, an intercessor, who lived by faith and saw many miracles of healing and overcoming power. His testimony included a personal divorcement from the traditions of men (even among church-goers). It works like this; when a believer saw a need, he gave what he could to help fill it believing that God would meet his needs when the time came. One day on his way to take a trip across country Rees had just enough to pay for his fare. As he was on the way to buy his ticket he was made aware of the need of another believer so he gave all his money for that cause. He stood in line trusting God for provision and it came just in time for his trip. This is how the body provides for each other. When we are sold out to do the true work of the ministry we can count upon our needs being provided.
I have had the opportunity to trust God in that way more and more and it is exciting. I have been in situations where I had little or no income for months. I remember taking a long difficult bus trip to minister with only a couple of dollars for food in my pocket. I saw the Lord show me favor along the way. All my needs were provided in the offering but if they hadn’t I still would have gone and served the brethren and been blessed. God’s will is not found at the bottom of the ledger sheet or in whether we lose or gain. That is why we were told to not eat of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Like the widow’s mite we must give out of our need and not worry about the provision if we know that God has called us to do something. Usually, we will be tested on this very thing to see if we are willing to be obedient or are fearful over conflicting circumstances.
I will throw this in “for free”... I really don’t think that it pleases the Lord when ministers demand huge fees for their services. They expect to be placed on a pedestal being pampered with all sorts of “perks”. Consider even how many small ministries could be supported on the amount of “pocket change’ that a lot of popular ones spend on clothes or jewelry a month. Add to that the merchandising spirit of Babylon in the “modern” church attitude with the "selling of the Gospel". Some appear to be “untouchable” where they only associate with those who are known and successful in the world. Christ related this problem of giving honor to one another as a detriment to our faith. I know that God gives us beautiful things for our pleasure but these things are not expedient for the times we live in and are bringing us to a place of financial bondage or complacency. We have been indoctrinated by the powers of mammon forgetting that friendship with the world makes us enemies of Yahweh. Too much wealth is wasted on self indulgent, temporal and corruptible items of pleasure seeking and status.
We need to rethink what true prosperity is. God provides many times without the use of money. The hidden manna provided in the “desert” is our source of sustenance and truth. He gives health and peace which are worth much more than gold. We all see the time approaching when bread will be multiplied and water will flow from rocks in the desert; a much more exciting lifestyle than that of the rich and famous. We can expect that when Jesus is all we have he’s all we need. Because we were bought with a price we are no longer our own nor to be in total control of what we have or who we are. The trade off...His life for ours. This giving up of the pleasures of the world includes status oriented things such as positions in social or political arenas. We can prepare our hearts now and experience the freedom of total relinquishment that brings new joy into our lives. The closer we come to dwelling in the Spirit the less we desire material things anyway. We will then see the shallowness of men’s “towers” and the true desperateness of their souls while reaching out to help them.
The man-pleasing messages are far from what Christ showed us as servanthood/ministry. Those who are trying to walk the higher road of faithfulness and self-control will face rejection because they are not sharing a “smooth” message. By this we learn that popularity is probably not the best way to know whether the person is expounding truth. Yahshua said the opposite; "many will be offended for the Word’s sake”. As a matter of fact those who are moving into the deeper things of the Lord will not be liked by the mainstream. Jesus wasn’t a political activist nor did he train the disciples to be social workers. We must believe for a greater power to change mankind. These signs follow those who believe ...they shall cast out demons, heal the sick and raise the dead. When the Spirit abides fully in us we are transformed to a new level of existence. As one person rises up in spiritual anointing the whole Body should be gaining this strength and support, too. We are all called to be ministers.
Even though things seem to be happening like dominoes falling in slow motion now, when the fullness of time comes it will be devastating. Natural disasters, financial and political upheaval are already increasing. God in His mercy gives us understanding of these signs to keep us watching as a complete picture in His prophetic word to come to pass. The things of this world are temporal and will pass away soon. Make sure your spiritual “house” is built upon the right foundation of Christ and the Spirit breathed Word of God. I believe that there will be ample warning to flee or to relocate but none will be allowed to tarry in Sodom or to turn back with longing for Babylon. We cannot have a divided mind or compromise in our lives or the winds and rains will cause the house to fall. It is likely that many will give up their will to live rather than leave behind the familiar comforts even false doctrines that they have acquired. Thinking that godliness is gain many will be disillusioned when their bubble bursts and they lose all their prosperity and control of their lives. Then it may be too late.
Think about other times in history when people had to prepare for devastation or flee. Many of those who lost their lives in the prison camps of Europe during WW2 were not willing to face the reality that the gates of Hell were closing in on them. It was done so slowly with many false promises and propaganda (lies) so that is was easier to stay in denial than make the decisions appropriate to escape (like the proverbial frog in the frying pan). We see this convenient illusion daily in the media to perpetuate the false security of millions. We can go on comfortably for a while longer then suddenly the Day will be upon us.
It is not easy to leave the comfort zone but if you are waiting upon Him, the Lord will direct you to the places or people where safety and help, can be found. He will confirm and then help you to conform. The Lord has been telling me that too often we put His word into a little package (safe place) in our minds where it doesn’t affect us personally. We like to figure out all of the doctrines about the end of the age not realizing what we must do to endure these trials while making our calling and election sure. This gets into attitudes of the heart much more than the material realm. This is not a run into the hills to survive message but a “prepare ye the way of the Lord”, exhortation.
There are several other places in scripture where God’s chosen ones had to leave their present location and flee to safety as the Lord instructed. Even Joseph and Mary fled to protect Jesus as because young children were being killed to prevent any possible rival for Herod’s throne. Christ's Kingdom was not of this world so our focus should not be there either. He is looking for those who will be made ready in faithfulness not worrying about how weird or foolish they might appear to the carnally minded. Yahweh's provision will be given in the wilderness not the systems of man, i.e. the woman who is taken by eagles’ wings.
If you will be inconsolable to lose your precious “whatever” then place it in a protected place for the duration of the times ahead. James in chapter 5 is a deliberate rebuke and not easily ignored or down played; 1 Come now you rich [people}, weep aloud and lament over the miseries(the woes)that are surely coming upon you. 2 Your abundant wealth has rotted and is ruined, and your garments have become moth eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are completely rusted through,and their rust will be testimony against you and it will devour your flesh as if it were fire. You have heaped together treasure for the last days.4 But look here are the wages that you have withheld by fraud and the cries of the harvesters have come to the ears of the Lord of hosts. 5 Here on earth you have abandoned yourselves to soft living and to pleasures of self-indulgence..you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter...
The 911 attack was a wake up call but people were able to push the snooze button again. I believe the Lord tempered the situation though the prayers and responses of those watching and prepared. (I will not go into the controversy over who is to blame). It was a practice for those who are tuned into the warning sounds of the trumpet in this land. Future terrorist attacks are predicted to be inevitable and will cause repercussions on many levels. We heard reports of how this tragedy caused many to seek or return to God. Some sought comfort in religious forms that deny God’s power but hopefully many will continue to seek and find Him in Truth. Isaiah 26:9 reads; When Your judgments are in the earth the inhabitants will learn righteousness. A bold, purified church will arise.
The Feast of Trumpets is the type/pattern of events for the future symbolic of the Seven Trumpets in the book of Revelation. This fulfillment will happen literally during the time of Great Tribulation. I say this because the Passover, Unleavened Bread and Pentecost Feasts were completed in a short time span at Christ’s death, resurrection and the revealing and ministry of the Holy Spirit. There will possibly be a final seven year period of cleansing fire (the Great Tribulation) that will purge/cleanse the faithful' making them ready for the Lord’s return. Traditions of the Feast of Trumpets have ten days of preparation prior to the Day of Atonement which perhaps relates to the additional Day of the Lord (wrath) period of time after the Great Tribulation. I feel that the Feast of Tabernacles is another achievement of higher Holiness. New Jerusalem comes down to thje earth at the last part of the Revelation to John and denotes complete purity. When Jesus spoke; "I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes unto the Father except by me" he was sharing thatthere are levels of attinment in the Spiritual realm. Some will dwell in outer darkness and others will gain the right to be close to the Holy City. ALl ewill go up three times a year to celebrate the Holy Days. It all fits into this pattern.
Through it all, the triumph of mercy over judgment is a promise we must all take to heart in context of our own necessity to forgive others. James 2:13 says; For to him who has shown no mercy the judgment shall be merciless. We reap what we sow and are forgiven as we forgive. These are among the good works required to show we are true disciples and peacemakers by showing the characteristics of our heavenly Father. We will all have to get rid of any strife or wrong attitudes to become cleansed from all defilement. As the Bride of Christ is revealed we will remember that she is without spot or wrinkle. Consider this: We do not have to right to be right but only to be humble/broken. Jesus did not argue with people over their beliefs. He spoke the truth and those who had ears to hear drew close for more. He did rebuke the arrogant who perverted knowledge or were abusive in their religion.