Wow, it sure has been awhile since I've written to you. I hope you've been well! I always hope that you find my thoughts to be written to you as a personal letter and not something just to a group of people. You are important to God. God loves you and He is on your side and rooting for you, especially when you desire to follow Him and the teachings of Jesus. I can back that up with scripture, too.
If you've been around for awhile, you know that I really try to be positive and encouraging. Today may look a little different on the surface. I do believe that this will be a warning to someone, but I hope that in the long run this can offer some encouragement as well. I do have to tell you that I was really shaken by the dream that I will be telling you about.
Also, last night I woke at 2:37 am. I haven't figured out why yet, but it seemed that the Lord wanted me to take note of the time I woke up and then when I went back to bed at 3:19. Maybe a scripture, or scriptures? I'll be praying into that and if God gives you any insight or a word for me as you read this, please leave a comment or send me an email. Anyway, as I began to read the scriptures I was taken back a little by what seemed to be highlighted to me.
As I've said in previous posts, I believe that 2014 is a year of acceleration pertaining to seeing and experiencing the power of God and His kingdom. At the same time I believe that we are going to see a separation between those who really desire and dare to follow Jesus and those who are lukewarm with Christ, or even trying to fake their way as being true followers of Jesus. Along with acceleration, God is also calling for holiness among His people. An important question would be, where are you at in relation of the two examples I've just given, or are you somewhere in between?
The scripture that the Holy Spirit seemed to hi-light for me last night/early this morning?
"Then Jesus told this story, 'A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. Finally he said to the gardener, "I've waited three years and there hasn't been a single fig! Cut it down, it's just taking up space in the garden." The gardener answered, "Sir,give it one more chance. Leave it another year and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down."' (Luke 13: 6-9, NLT)
In this parable, Jesus was most likely referring to Israel. A nation chosen by God that had grown cold towards God and was not producing spiritual fruit, but God is now giving the people one more chance through Jesus Christ. As I've already said, this will be a year of acceleration. In fact I've heard and read of reports and testimonies that speak of some pretty amazing things that have occurred to confirm this. However, at the same time, I believe God is growing weary of lukewarm churches and people. I believe that this parable is being used as a challenge. A wake up call. I don't need to give a talk about the end times. The Father wants the real deal when it comes to His people. The battle between good and evil has intensified, both in the natural and in the spiritual. For those who haven't been producing good fruit, don't take a chance on running out of time to do so.
I mentioned that I had a recent dream that shook me up. I woke with a feeling of horror and it caused me to examine my own life and heart. After being given the parable last night, I feel that it is now time to tell you of this dream also. It was short, but right to the point. Something I have avoided until now.
There was an accident with two vehicles involved. In the one vehicle there was a man who didn't have a scratch or showed any visible signs of injuries. In the other vehicle, a man who was bloodied and mangled. At first all attention was being given to this man. Survival appeared hopeless, but yet suddenly this man was sitting up and looking around, even though blood was pouring down his face. In an instant, all attention shifted to the other man, because suddenly he was collapsing. Even he seemed shocked that something was wrong. In seconds he was dead. By looking at him you would have never known that his internal organs had been so badly crushed that death was certain. Everyone was surprised. Before he died, it flashed through this man's mind that he was about to die. He was shocked, but didn't have time to process this because, in a split second his life was over. Instantly the dream was interpreted to me. I saw faceless people who carried signs around their necks. Some of the titles on those signs were.....................Pastor, Priest, Minister, Reverend. These men of God appeared to have it all together. They looked like they had the perfect Christian life. But they were "white washed tombs." They were represented by the man who had died. I saw all kinds of secret sin and hypocrisy being shown to me. The day for accountability comes. The Spirit showed me that those with the secret sins were so infested internally that a death that was visible to on one was imminent. On the other hand, the ones who appear beaten and lost in an ugly sin infested life, who don't "look" the part of even a "good person", are seen in the man who was mangled in the accident. Though he appears headed for certain death, he recognizes that he is sick and dying, needing help; needing to be saved, and he will be shown mercy, forgiveness and spiritual healing as Jesus is revealed to him. This one finds life.
When I awoke, I had such a feeling of horror at what I had just seen. I instantly told the Lord that if there was anything within me that I needed to confront and deal with to bring it to light. I am not going to add or take anything away from this dream. I think I need to leave any further meaning to be between the reader and the Lord. I'm afraid to even ask God to interpret for me what "death" really meant. Did it really mean that a spiritual death, separation from God was about to take place? I was and still am afraid to ask the Lord this question...................fearing the answer.
So there you have it. This man, meaning me, who loves to encourage, talk about grace, the coming kingdom of God and all the excitement that comes with it, has today told you of things that I would rather have not have had to do. But even though this was against my own nature, the Lord showed me that it was time to do it, and to be honest I fear God more than man. If I had not shared this, I would be in complete disobedience. There are a couple of verses in Jude that I believe apply here. It is very difficult to fully understand the meaning of these verses completely, but I believe they are important to us, especially when we see someone who has fallen so far from God that we become indignant towards them, feeling like they are so far gone that they could never repent, or even be saved in the first place.
.........."keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by flesh." (Jude 21-23)
I believe by writing this, there will be someone who was being swallowed up by internal, hidden sin, that will be quickly reawakened, being "snatched back" if you will, into repentance and a renewed commitment to Jesus Christ.
You know that I love you. I want only the best for you just as God wants the best for you. May we each renew our love in committing our lives to Jesus.
With a brother's love,
Mark S.
If you've been around for awhile, you know that I really try to be positive and encouraging. Today may look a little different on the surface. I do believe that this will be a warning to someone, but I hope that in the long run this can offer some encouragement as well. I do have to tell you that I was really shaken by the dream that I will be telling you about.
Also, last night I woke at 2:37 am. I haven't figured out why yet, but it seemed that the Lord wanted me to take note of the time I woke up and then when I went back to bed at 3:19. Maybe a scripture, or scriptures? I'll be praying into that and if God gives you any insight or a word for me as you read this, please leave a comment or send me an email. Anyway, as I began to read the scriptures I was taken back a little by what seemed to be highlighted to me.
As I've said in previous posts, I believe that 2014 is a year of acceleration pertaining to seeing and experiencing the power of God and His kingdom. At the same time I believe that we are going to see a separation between those who really desire and dare to follow Jesus and those who are lukewarm with Christ, or even trying to fake their way as being true followers of Jesus. Along with acceleration, God is also calling for holiness among His people. An important question would be, where are you at in relation of the two examples I've just given, or are you somewhere in between?
The scripture that the Holy Spirit seemed to hi-light for me last night/early this morning?
"Then Jesus told this story, 'A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. Finally he said to the gardener, "I've waited three years and there hasn't been a single fig! Cut it down, it's just taking up space in the garden." The gardener answered, "Sir,give it one more chance. Leave it another year and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down."' (Luke 13: 6-9, NLT)
In this parable, Jesus was most likely referring to Israel. A nation chosen by God that had grown cold towards God and was not producing spiritual fruit, but God is now giving the people one more chance through Jesus Christ. As I've already said, this will be a year of acceleration. In fact I've heard and read of reports and testimonies that speak of some pretty amazing things that have occurred to confirm this. However, at the same time, I believe God is growing weary of lukewarm churches and people. I believe that this parable is being used as a challenge. A wake up call. I don't need to give a talk about the end times. The Father wants the real deal when it comes to His people. The battle between good and evil has intensified, both in the natural and in the spiritual. For those who haven't been producing good fruit, don't take a chance on running out of time to do so.
I mentioned that I had a recent dream that shook me up. I woke with a feeling of horror and it caused me to examine my own life and heart. After being given the parable last night, I feel that it is now time to tell you of this dream also. It was short, but right to the point. Something I have avoided until now.
There was an accident with two vehicles involved. In the one vehicle there was a man who didn't have a scratch or showed any visible signs of injuries. In the other vehicle, a man who was bloodied and mangled. At first all attention was being given to this man. Survival appeared hopeless, but yet suddenly this man was sitting up and looking around, even though blood was pouring down his face. In an instant, all attention shifted to the other man, because suddenly he was collapsing. Even he seemed shocked that something was wrong. In seconds he was dead. By looking at him you would have never known that his internal organs had been so badly crushed that death was certain. Everyone was surprised. Before he died, it flashed through this man's mind that he was about to die. He was shocked, but didn't have time to process this because, in a split second his life was over. Instantly the dream was interpreted to me. I saw faceless people who carried signs around their necks. Some of the titles on those signs were.....................Pastor, Priest, Minister, Reverend. These men of God appeared to have it all together. They looked like they had the perfect Christian life. But they were "white washed tombs." They were represented by the man who had died. I saw all kinds of secret sin and hypocrisy being shown to me. The day for accountability comes. The Spirit showed me that those with the secret sins were so infested internally that a death that was visible to on one was imminent. On the other hand, the ones who appear beaten and lost in an ugly sin infested life, who don't "look" the part of even a "good person", are seen in the man who was mangled in the accident. Though he appears headed for certain death, he recognizes that he is sick and dying, needing help; needing to be saved, and he will be shown mercy, forgiveness and spiritual healing as Jesus is revealed to him. This one finds life.
When I awoke, I had such a feeling of horror at what I had just seen. I instantly told the Lord that if there was anything within me that I needed to confront and deal with to bring it to light. I am not going to add or take anything away from this dream. I think I need to leave any further meaning to be between the reader and the Lord. I'm afraid to even ask God to interpret for me what "death" really meant. Did it really mean that a spiritual death, separation from God was about to take place? I was and still am afraid to ask the Lord this question...................fearing the answer.
So there you have it. This man, meaning me, who loves to encourage, talk about grace, the coming kingdom of God and all the excitement that comes with it, has today told you of things that I would rather have not have had to do. But even though this was against my own nature, the Lord showed me that it was time to do it, and to be honest I fear God more than man. If I had not shared this, I would be in complete disobedience. There are a couple of verses in Jude that I believe apply here. It is very difficult to fully understand the meaning of these verses completely, but I believe they are important to us, especially when we see someone who has fallen so far from God that we become indignant towards them, feeling like they are so far gone that they could never repent, or even be saved in the first place.
.........."keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And on some have compassion, making a distinction; but others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment defiled by flesh." (Jude 21-23)
I believe by writing this, there will be someone who was being swallowed up by internal, hidden sin, that will be quickly reawakened, being "snatched back" if you will, into repentance and a renewed commitment to Jesus Christ.
You know that I love you. I want only the best for you just as God wants the best for you. May we each renew our love in committing our lives to Jesus.
With a brother's love,
Mark S.
Lord baptize us with your fire. Forgive us for our lukewarmness burn the garbage out give us clean hands and Pure hearts in Jesus name amen. . Thank you for our brother Mark and his heart Lord
ReplyDeleteThis was a great word Mark and what an incredible prophetic dream!!!
ReplyDeleteYou know my guts are crushed God stopped the bleeding and I live on now with no health and poverty scarred and and many health problems.
ReplyDeleteI often do wonder if God will again move before it is to late and have cried out for grace and change both on the inside and out even to the circumstances in life.
During a service I went to a minister ministering healing and prophecy I looked at him he bent down to listen and I said I want you to be honest and speak as the Lord directs my life has been destroyed if I have done something wrong and God prompts rebuke or correction say it right here in front of the church I do not care I cannot go on like this.
He said o.k. began to well as I was in extreme pain and he lay hands on me and must of felt it. he kept rebuking pain though it never left. He told me God is going to reveal some pieces to this puzzle short version as he began to pray loudly in tongues and move in prophecy yet no rebuke no healing no instruction. He walked up to me almost in tears and said I have to tell you job is in the new testament. almost teared up and walked away. we later spoke and I had and have been laid low for years in pain and poverty. He has ran several bibleschools held crusades seen miracles healing exct. indeed respectfully the Lord had moved me to check him over several things having to do with doctrine he later looked at me and said you are very knowledgable in the Word would you be if you could have worked. I replied no.
So for many years I have had to study mam Jude Peter Revelation Hebrews Romans and Corinthians all have warnings concerning the fear you have. It took years but many of the teachings of Jesus I now see the Apostles taught concerning eternal judgment and warning for those once born again wether minister or layman. It was hard to accept and drove me to prayer and go to bed early many many times. but as Hebrews taught their are six foundational doctrines on which we where to build. essential to continuing steadfastly in the apostles doctrine...Jesus meant what he said when He said count the cost and take Heed how we build. Many talk of the Lords coming but Mathew states before He comes He will send angels to gather some out of His kingdom he also said if this kingdom where of His World his servants would fight for it. I would like to thank you for posting that today. I do not know if I will live or die things seem so much worse but I do know the Lord has taught me much and if He raises me up many will be hesitant to accept aspects of both Him and His actions according to the new testament but God promised a church without spot or blemish and what is written must be made so.
My friend,
DeleteThank you for your heartfelt comments. As I was reading this my heart was troubled for you. I promise to pray for you daily. I have read this a few times now and the one immediate sense that I have received is that you did NOT do anything sinful or wrong that brought about the challenges or situations that you are dealing with. I'm not sure what was meant when you were told "Job is in the New Testament." You may feel like Job as you've described your health being gone and how poverty is upon you. However, I will pray that God completely reverses your health and begins to meet all your needs. I also want to remind you that God can do these things. Remember that Job did not die in the conditions that we see in most of the book, but "the Lord reversed the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends, and the Lord increased all that Job had twofold." (Job 42:10) This, of course, was before Jesus lived and died for us, so if under the old covenant God did this for Job, how much better is the covenant and grace of Jesus for us. Therefore my prayer is for God to completely REVERSE your circumstances, also. This might not sound possible to you, because it sounds like you have lived with all this for a long time, but I'm asking even for others reading this that we would unite in prayer and that God would grant you all that you need to overcome such despair. May God begin to surprise you with His love, even in your dreams. While I don't have an answer as to why these things have happened to you, I do know that God loves you with a great love and I don't believe for even a second that God desires for you to continue in your current condition. God knows you by name, in fact God has called you by name and I am praying that God will call out new blessings and new life to you. Feel free to keep in touch. You can even find my personal email when you click on my complete profile on the right side and near the top of this blog page.
Hi Mark, I appreciate your prayer just last week I said God would you have someone pray for me. It seems He heard, I am grateful to all who have given supplication on my behalf. I have no right to ask and eventually I hope to e mail you with good news. I have been placed on Medicaid and have a doctors appointment in five weeks. Any and all prayer from this point on I would be eternally grateful for. Most sincerely thanking you Scott.
ReplyDelete