The Widows of Israel and Us...Believers

[whirlwind]

Luke 4:25-27 But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land. But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarapta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus (Elisha) the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian."


There are many widows in Israel (God's chosen people...Christian and Jew, not the land of Israel) as the one they love, their husband, was crucified. However, many are and will fall for Satan's deception and instead of being the widow of Christ, (the wife of Christ), as they believe themselves to be, will fall into adultry/idolatry with Satan. In the "days of Elias," which I believe is now, he doesn't come to save everyone as Elisha isn't sent to cleanse everyone. Many of the widows will fall for the deception and those saved and cleansed during their historical, earthly time, were Gentiles...of Sidon and Syria. Is that a type for what will be, is now, during their spiritual days?


Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."


The same event Luke wrote of....days of Elias, heaven being shut for three and one half years is repeated in......

Revelation 11:3 And I will give power unto My two witnesses, and they shall prophecy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth." (6) These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.


The "great famine" in the land during that time is...

Amos 8:11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD.


When Jesus spoke the words about some of those "widows," followers of God, not being saved or cleansed.......

Luke 4:28-30 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath,
And rose up, and thrust Him out of the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong. But He passing through the midst of them went His way.


The religious folks, "all they in the synagogue," (became/are and will become) angry at hearing truth and "thrust Him out of the city." This is our example. He is in us and we too will be thrust out. There are two things that stand out to me in [Luke 4:28-30]. First, notice that those that thrust Him out have "their city." This is not our city! Two....He passed right through them..and went His way! :o

 

[Sparkey]

Greetings, whirlwind!

"Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the judgment of the LORD." (Jer 8:7)

The stories of widows and orphans and us. Nice! I love the book of Esther and especially like the year of purification: In Shushan, a Jewish orphan by the name of Hadassah lived with her uncle Mordechai. When the king's men came to her house, Mordechai said, "Don't be afraid. Go with them. Do not tell them you are a Jewess. Tell them your Persian name -- Esther. God will watch over you!"

"Esther had not shewed her people nor her kindred: for Mordecai had charged her that she should not shew it. And Mordecai walked every day before the court of the women's house, to know how Esther did, and what should become of her. Now when every maid's turn was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women, (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odours, and with other things for the purifying of the women;) Then thus came every maiden unto the king; whatsoever she desired was given her to go with her out of the house of the women unto the king's house. "

Shhhh... there are secrets within. Are we in a time of purification? I think so. Time again for me to study the Purim story and reacquaint myself with Esther and Ruth and also of the Shulamite

For lo! The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing [a song to be accompanied with instrumental music] of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle* is heard in our land;

~Sparrow
____________________
Footnote:
*Turtle

תּר תּור
tôr tôr
tore, tore
Probably the same as H8447; a ring dove, often (figuratively) as a term of endearment: - (turtle) dove.

 

[whirlwind]

In a time of purification! :yes Yes, I believe we are. I will follow your lead and delve into the suggested reading. Perhaps you could begin a study for all of us on this Sparrow. ( I wonder why I have the inclination to call you Jack? )

 

[Sparkey]

In a time of purification! :yes Yes, I believe we are. I will follow your lead and delve into the suggested reading. Perhaps you could begin a study for all of us on this Sparrow. ( I wonder why I have the inclination to call you Jack? )

I am Jack to you? Thank-you!

The boy's name Jack \j(a)-ck\ is pronounced jak. It is of Old English origin. Name based on John (Hebrew) "the Lord is gracious", or Jacques, the French form of Jacob (Hebrew) "he who supplants".

There are also other meanings --- none of which I object to

Origin: "Jack" originated from the Middle English jakke (1350–1400). Jakke was used in addressing any male, especially one considered a social inferior, and was extended to anything male, including designation a variety of inanimate objects.

shhhh.... secrets are seen here

A study on Ruth and Esther and Song of Solomon? The Lord would need to do quite a work in me before I felt anywhere close to trying that. He is attacking me now. Our God is a Jealous God and my back-slidings and adulteries and idolatry has provoked Him to move against me (my flesh). I so much love and thank Him for this. Am I a widow? Am I an orphan? Yes, by my actions and by what I deserve yes. But what I think doesn't matter. It is the shout of El Shaddai. Who can withstand Him? I may have done an unusual thing in that I asked for God's Judgment on me and upon my life. It wasn't long after that I cried out, "Mercy, Father! Who can stand?" Still and although He is filled with tender-mercies and longsuffering - He is also the true Spirit of Just. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hand of the living God! I am being reproved and love to find myself in the fire, being tried -- because He shows me secrets there. He is our refining fire. All of His judgments are pure and righteous and from my view - they are custom tailored too. I've asked the Alpha of my Faith to be the Omega also and in this I know I have the "will of the Father" and further am able to comfort myself with the wisdom given; He chastises his sons. He counsels: if it is difficult for the green - how more for the dry?

By faith the widow and the orphan (of this world) say of their husband and father (of heaven) - C'mon in, the fire's fine!

Isa 42:1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.
Isa 42:2 He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.
Isa 42:3 A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.
Isa 42:4 He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.

Judgment comes first to the House of God. I am terrified of God (but only in the best way). I also am learning to trust him with every part of me.

Signed,
~your timid sparrow a.k.a. "Jack" --- lol - are you calling me a Pirate? Jack Sparrow?!? - :toofunny

 

[Sparkey]

Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."
...
Amos 8:11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD.

When Jesus spoke the words about some of those "widows," followers of God, not being saved or cleansed...
....

Luke 4:28-30 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, And rose up, and thrust Him out of the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong. But He passing through the midst of them went His way.

The religious folks, "all they in the synagogue," (became/are and will become) angry at hearing truth and "thrust Him out of the city." This is our example. He is in us and we too will be thrust out. There are two things that stand out to me in [Luke 4:28-30]. First, notice that those that thrust Him out have "their city." This is not our city! Two....He passed right through them..and went His way! :o [/b]

The post you authored closed with the thought, "There are two things that stand out to me..." I like that and will turn my hunt to the places you have pointed to. Pardon because it takes me time to chew the meat of the word - and I've been told not to chew with my mouth full (with my mouth open??). But I also 'noticed' two things here... perspective is gained by two eyes, yes? May I look to yours and offer mine?

The first was our Word from Malachi ---the second [thing I noticed] was from the last part of what you said about people getting angry about truth.

Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

Being an orphan (but not from my youth), my read on this same is emphasized differently:
Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

What will the mission of the coming Spirit of Elijah be? Fatherhood and Sonship. [from my memory of previous studies]: Reuben is a type of 'sonship'. The color of the stone on the High Priest's breastplate for him is red. Of course we know the color red represents the blood of Jesus Christ as our Passover sacrifice. The Hebrew word found and translated 'children' is bên (not 'bat' but that's okay, in this sense we are all sons - even me.)

bên
BDB Definition:
1) son, grandson, child, member of a group
1a) son, male child
1b) grandson
1c) children (plural - male and female)
1d) youth, young men (plural)
1e) young (of animals)
1f) sons (as characterisation, i.e. sons of injustice [for unrighteous men] or sons of God [for angels])
1g) people (of a nation) (plural)
1h) of lifeless things, i.e. sparks, stars, arrows (figuratively)
1i) a member of a guild, order, class

The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
_____________________________
Now turning to the point you made about those who react with anger when shown truth - and again, from a different perspective, not offered in conflict but instead offered as contrast:

We are told to put on the whole armour of God. How easy is it for any of us to leave behind the "shield of faith" can be seen by the stress and emphasis of the word, "Above all taking the shield of faith" ---- because this is what defends us against the firery-darty. Indeed iron is sharpened by iron. It is also our command to be wise like serpents <harmless as doves>. I see no 'evil' in having passionate discussion in the family and further I don't think that all "adult conversations" need to be held in private (that means the 'clean' kind of 'adult conversations' <---- this goes without saying ;) )

Two brothers playing -- iron sharpening iron: :boxing :robinhood <---- Powers and Principalities in High Places.

So here I am preaching to the choir again. But let's take a closer look and examine that "TRUTH". It is the truth that is said to be wrapped around our loins. Now that is a place in the natural that any little son who play fights with his brother (and sisters too - I can tell ya!) learns to quickly and sometimes vehemently defend. What I am learning is that when we "bring the truth in kindness" to our brothers and sisters we can easily be seen as making a poke below the belt. (I was gonna say "crotch attack" but cleaned it up a bit for the sake of the forum).

~Sparrow

 

[whirlwind]

In a time of purification! :yes Yes, I believe we are. I will follow your lead and delve into the suggested reading. Perhaps you could begin a study for all of us on this Sparrow. ( I wonder why I have the inclination to call you Jack? )

I am Jack to you? Thank-you!

The boy's name Jack \j(a)-ck\ is pronounced jak. It is of Old English origin. Name based on John (Hebrew) "the Lord is gracious", or Jacques, the French form of Jacob (Hebrew) "he who supplants".

There are also other meanings --- none of which I object to

Origin: "Jack" originated from the Middle English jakke (1350–1400). Jakke was used in addressing any male, especially one considered a social inferior, and was extended to anything male, including designation a variety of inanimate objects.

shhhh.... secrets are seen here

A study on Ruth and Esther and Song of Solomon? The Lord would need to do quite a work in me before I felt anywhere close to trying that. He is attacking me now. Our God is a Jealous God and my back-slidings and adulteries and idolatry has provoked Him to move against me (my flesh). I so much love and thank Him for this. Am I a widow? Am I an orphan? Yes, by my actions and by what I deserve yes. But what I think doesn't matter. It is the shout of El Shaddai. Who can withstand Him? I may have done an unusual thing in that I asked for God's Judgment on me and upon my life. It wasn't long after that I cried out, "Mercy, Father! Who can stand?" Still and although He is filled with tender-mercies and longsuffering - He is also the true Spirit of Just. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hand of the living God! I am being reproved and love to find myself in the fire, being tried -- because He shows me secrets there. He is our refining fire. All of His judgments are pure and righteous and from my view - they are custom tailored too. I've asked the Alpha of my Faith to be the Omega also and in this I know I have the "will of the Father" and further am able to comfort myself with the wisdom given; He chastises his sons. He counsels: if it is difficult for the green - how more for the dry?

By faith the widow and the orphan (of this world) say of their husband and father (of heaven) - C'mon in, the fire's fine!

Isa 42:1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.
Isa 42:2 He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.
Isa 42:3 A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.
Isa 42:4 He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.

Judgment comes first to the House of God. I am terrified of God (but only in the best way). I also am learning to trust him with every part of me.

Signed,
~your timid sparrow a.k.a. "Jack" --- lol - are you calling me a Pirate? Jack Sparrow?!? - :toofunny

Yes, Jack Sparrow of the Black Pearl.

Okay my pirate friend, I read, not studied but read, Esther again yesterday. There are so many types shown of future times, places, events and people on those pages so I will be spending more time there.

A few years ago I wrote down a few things that were of interest to me concerning the Book of Esther...

In [Deuteronomy 31:16-18], Yahveh declared His people would forsake Him and in His anger He said He would hide His face from them. That came to pass in the Book of Esther. God allowed an evil man to come to power in order to fulfill the negative part of His plan, (Haman, a type for Satan). Through this book He was guiding them secretly, without their knowledge. His name is not mentioned once but...secretely His Sacred Name is hidden in this book (in the Hebrew manuscripts).

1:20 "All The Wives Shall Give." This is the first of five acrostics that exhibit, in the initials, the Divine Name.

5:4 "Let The King And Haman Come This Day." This is the second of the five.

5:13 "This Availeth Me Nothing." This is the third of five.

7:5 "Who Is He, And Where Is He?" This is the fifth acrostic...it doesn't give Yahveh but does show the Divine Name of....I AM.

7:7 "That There Was Evil Determined Against Him." This is the fourth and last of the four acrostics exhibiting the name Yahveh in this book.


His working was secret and hidden, hence the name of Yahveh being hidden four times and the name Ehyeh, I Am that I Am...once. The massorah has a rubic, calling attention to that and at least three of the ancient manuscripts show the acrostic letter written in bolder print to draw attention to them, showing the four consonant letters of the name....YHVH.

Haman, termed the "Jews enemy," was called that four times and that doesn't fall on anyone else in Scripture. His name means "magnificent." Whenever his name is mentioned on the day of Purim the Jews hiss. Proper sound for a child of the serpent.


That's my collection of info about Esther. Now, I need to spend time seeing what wonderful secrets He will open that were written on those pages long, long ago...just for us to find. :yes

 

[whirlwind]

Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."
...
Amos 8:11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD.

When Jesus spoke the words about some of those "widows," followers of God, not being saved or cleansed...
....

Luke 4:28-30 And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, And rose up, and thrust Him out of the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong. But He passing through the midst of them went His way.

The religious folks, "all they in the synagogue," (became/are and will become) angry at hearing truth and "thrust Him out of the city." This is our example. He is in us and we too will be thrust out. There are two things that stand out to me in [Luke 4:28-30]. First, notice that those that thrust Him out have "their city." This is not our city! Two....He passed right through them..and went His way! :o [/b]

The post you authored closed with the thought, "There are two things that stand out to me..." I like that and will turn my hunt to the places you have pointed to. Pardon because it takes me time to chew the meat of the word - and I've been told not to chew with my mouth full (with my mouth open??). But I also 'noticed' two things here... perspective is gained by two eyes, yes? May I look to yours and offer mine?

The first was our Word from Malachi ---the second [thing I noticed] was from the last part of what you said about people getting angry about truth.

Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

Being an orphan (but not from my youth), my read on this same is emphasized differently:
Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

What will the mission of the coming Spirit of Elijah be? Fatherhood and Sonship. [from my memory of previous studies]: Reuben is a type of 'sonship'. The color of the stone on the High Priest's breastplate for him is red. Of course we know the color red represents the blood of Jesus Christ as our Passover sacrifice. The Hebrew word found and translated 'children' is bên (not 'bat' but that's okay, in this sense we are all sons - even me.)

bên
BDB Definition:
1) son, grandson, child, member of a group
1a) son, male child
1b) grandson
1c) children (plural - male and female)
1d) youth, young men (plural)
1e) young (of animals)
1f) sons (as characterisation, i.e. sons of injustice [for unrighteous men] or sons of God [for angels])
1g) people (of a nation) (plural)
1h) of lifeless things, i.e. sparks, stars, arrows (figuratively)
1i) a member of a guild, order, class

The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
_____________________________
Now turning to the point you made about those who react with anger when shown truth - and again, from a different perspective, not offered in conflict but instead offered as contrast:

We are told to put on the whole armour of God. How easy is it for any of us to leave behind the "shield of faith" can be seen by the stress and emphasis of the word, "Above all taking the shield of faith" ---- because this is what defends us against the firery-darty. Indeed iron is sharpened by iron. It is also our command to be wise like serpents <harmless as doves>. I see no 'evil' in having passionate discussion in the family and further I don't think that all "adult conversations" need to be held in private (that means the 'clean' kind of 'adult conversations' <---- this goes without saying ;) )

Two brothers playing -- iron sharpening iron: :boxing :robinhood <---- Powers and Principalities in High Places.

So here I am preaching to the choir again. But let's take a closer look and examine that "TRUTH". It is the truth that is said to be wrapped around our loins. Now that is a place in the natural that any little son who play fights with his brother (and sisters too - I can tell ya!) learns to quickly and sometimes vehemently defend. What I am learning is that when we "bring the truth in kindness" to our brothers and sisters we can easily be seen as making a poke below the belt. (I was gonna say "crotch attack" but cleaned it up a bit for the sake of the forum).

~Sparrow

Yes it is like a sneak attack to us. And, yes it hurts and, yes it causes anger. I've been there and am sure I will again be there. I am learning to be more open and accepting of other thoughts. Even though my ego rears it's ugly head I find that if I just go ahead and admit to myself that what they're saying could just posibly be correct...then it is easier to say.....I see, and learn. I don't too often become angry with others unless I'm really pushed but...I'm working on that too.

It is a fine line though. We must allow Him to lead us to accept things not previously known and at the same time keep us from false doctrine.

 

[Sparkey]

Thank you teach me new word!! :D (I quote an ESL Chinese friend)

I had to go a-searching to find "Acrostics" and found out that it is referring to a commonly used mnemonic device like "Every Good Boy Does Fine" - for helping students remember the notes of the Treble Clef in Music.

Then I found something else - it's new to me so pardon my small excitement - but I've always wondered about the "Fish" symbol for Christians. It is an Acrostic (hope I'm using the word properly).

JESUS CHRISTS GOD'S SON our SAVIOUR
I (I)

• = Iesous [Jesus]

CH (X)

• = Christos [Christ]

TH (θ)

• = Theou [God's]

U (Y)

• = Uios [Son]

S (Σ)

• = Soter [Saviour]

 

[Sparkey]

So here I am preaching to the choir again. But let's take a closer look and examine that "TRUTH". It is the truth that is said to be wrapped around our loins. Now that is a place in the natural that any little son who play fights with his brother (and sisters too - I can tell ya!) learns to quickly and sometimes vehemently defend. What I am learning is that when we "bring the truth in kindness" to our brothers and sisters we can easily be seen as making a poke below the belt. (I was gonna say "crotch attack" but cleaned it up a bit for the sake of the forum).

~Sparrow

Yes it is like a sneak attack to us. And, yes it hurts and, yes it causes anger. I've been there and am sure I will again be there. I am learning to be more open and accepting of other thoughts. Even though my ego rears it's ugly head I find that if I just go ahead and admit to myself that what they're saying could just posibly be correct...then it is easier to say.....I see, and learn. I don't too often become angry with others unless I'm really pushed but...I'm working on that too.

It is a fine line though. We must allow Him to lead us to accept things not previously known and at the same time keep us from false doctrine.

Having been married, I've wondered how those who are sweetly in love could (after the honeymoon) know so precisely "what buttons" to push in each other. What is it, that can twist love, like this? It isn't mana. How can I be more like Him? I think that part of the answer is found in the Doctrine of the Nicolatians (spoken of in Revelation which God says He HATES) - we must return to our First Love - the "honeymoon" time because, with our Lord, this time is to be eternal, yes? Thank God! that the word has declared that Jesus will not faint nor fail and will not get discouraged (with us).

I get so much encouragement from the saints! From you whirlwind, and from many, many others. I need it too! We are being drawn closer and closer and as we draw nigh so also does He - it is then that I am confronted with the stain of my sin. The Holiness of our Father is impenetrable! It is then that I look at my actions amidst my brothers and sisters - the Redeemed of Christ! Lord, God! WHAT AM I DOING???

Dearest beloved brother~ be mindful there is nothing in heaven that does not belong to us by Christ even now! And even in this minit we enjoy heaven’s delights… For heaven rejoices over the saved soul and the returned prodigal, and so do we. The hosts of heaven chant the triumphant glory of God’s grace, and so do we.

Is the smile of Jesus any less sweet to these saints below [the hosts of heaven], whose redeemed eyes see it? Does heaven look forward to The Day of the Lord with great expectation? My brother, we PANT for it too!

Since we are such citizens of heaven…

OH Lord, let our walk and actions be consistent with our high calling, and let no faintness of heart or weariness of body keep us from the congregation where our vows may be paid before we ever enter Your glorious blessed gates!

… And may we have an abundant entry! For You extract the precious from the vile. HALLELUYAH!

For we would not trade a minit …for a whole day without Him init…

:amen

Okay then - I ask the Lord continue to anoint you, blessed (happy / joyful) sister, and continue to show us His holiness (that we may be more and more like Him) as we gaze deeper with our breath caught and held in wonder at the sight and marvel of His secret(s). We are to cast away fear and I see this in you as you are running to your God. Run well, for I know his burden is light - cast down that which so easily besets. In the Name we come and departing shall I depart. Our freedom is unhindered by the command of the Almighty! We've seen the wedding feast where "ritual hand-washing" water was CHANGED into wine (our Joy, His Spirit). We are the wine, the fruit of the earth! We are the fig tree -- and when we put forth our leaves we are advertising our fruit -- that healing that comes from the Good Physician alone. It is imperative that when our time comes he is delighted in us lest we have again the curse - but even in this - I have found love - the curse of God is a blessing, a personal message to re-form us in Christ, yes? The womb of the barren shall be the more fruitful!!

I am falling deeply, so deeply in love with You (yes, the "You" seen in your saints ---> that You). Do not catch me, let me fall. It is at the depth of Thy font of the waterbrooks where we meet, you and I. Within the depths of your secret places and there! Where deep calls to deep. Shhhhhh... again my soul. I hear the song sung by the turtle.

whirlwind, I seek to share your heart in this and to speak from what I hear in you so that your 'Amen" springs from your lips in agreement, as touching. I seek to speak the pure word of the truth in kindness. To be a raisin cake, prepared by the work that others have put toward me - and offered as nourishment, not in rebuke.

~Sparrow

PS. I'm being convicted here: Per my understanding, Nico means "conquer" in Greek, Laitan refers to lay people, or laity; the word could be taken to mean "Lay conquerors". We need to "conquer" by the Spirit, it is truly "Not by strength, not by Power - but by... ".

 

[whirlwind]

Having been married, I've wondered how those who are sweetly in love could (after the honeymoon) know so precisely "what buttons" to push in each other. What is it, that can twist love, like this? It isn't mana. How can I be more like Him? I think that part of the answer is found in the Doctrine of the Nicolatians (spoken of in Revelation which God says He HATES) - we must return to our First Love - the "honeymoon" time because, with our Lord, this time is to be eternal, yes? Thank God! that the word has declared that Jesus will not faint nor fail and will not get discouraged (with us).

I get so much encouragement from the saints! From you whirlwind, and from many, many others. I need it too! We are being drawn closer and closer and as we draw nigh so also does He - it is then that I am confronted with the stain of my sin. The Holiness of our Father is impenetrable! It is then that I look at my actions amidst my brothers and sisters - the Redeemed of Christ! Lord, God! WHAT AM I DOING???

Dearest beloved brother~ be mindful there is nothing in heaven that does not belong to us by Christ even now! And even in this minit we enjoy heaven’s delights… For heaven rejoices over the saved soul and the returned prodigal, and so do we. The hosts of heaven chant the triumphant glory of God’s grace, and so do we.

Is the smile of Jesus any less sweet to these saints below [the hosts of heaven], whose redeemed eyes see it? Does heaven look forward to The Day of the Lord with great expectation? My brother, we PANT for it too!

Since we are such citizens of heaven…

OH Lord, let our walk and actions be consistent with our high calling, and let no faintness of heart or weariness of body keep us from the congregation where our vows may be paid before we ever enter Your glorious blessed gates!

… And may we have an abundant entry! For You extract the precious from the vile. HALLELUYAH!

For we would not trade a minit …for a whole day without Him init…

:amen

Okay then - I ask the Lord continue to anoint you, blessed (happy / joyful) sister, and continue to show us His holiness (that we may be more and more like Him) as we gaze deeper with our breath caught and held in wonder at the sight and marvel of His secret(s). We are to cast away fear and I see this in you as you are running to your God. Run well, for I know his burden is light - cast down that which so easily besets. In the Name we come and departing shall I depart. Our freedom is unhindered by the command of the Almighty! We've seen the wedding feast where "ritual hand-washing" water was CHANGED into wine (our Joy, His Spirit). We are the wine, the fruit of the earth! We are the fig tree -- and when we put forth our leaves we are advertising our fruit -- that healing that comes from the Good Physician alone. It is imperative that when our time comes he is delighted in us lest we have again the curse - but even in this - I have found love - the curse of God is a blessing, a personal message to re-form us in Christ, yes? The womb of the barren shall be the more fruitful!!

Thank you for asking the Lord for His continued anointing for I truly am blessed. Your beautifully written post brought tears to my eyes Jack Sparrow...Johnny Depp would be envious of your ability with words.

You touched on something that has been going through my mind today. In some of the other threads there is a strong leaning away from the Scriptures, or the writings of Paul, being for us. It is disheartening, really disheartening, for me to read that. The reason is what you have written above. When we search the Scriptures and suddenly His Word comes to life and you SEE what is there...truly see. The secret is revealed and it is exactly as you describe where you have written...."breath caught and held in wonder." At times it is such a deep experience that I do have to catch my breath and yes....I am in wonder at the sheer majesty of what happened. It is very difficult to describe but...you know. You couldn't have written what you did and not know.

I can't place the teachings of preterism as being part of that. Can one experience the beauty of the Word when they seem to be saying...."it's over. The time is over. That Scripture carries no more meaning."

Anyway....thank you so much for this post for it leaves me with a smile.

 

[Joe67]

Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

whirlwind,

John, the apostle's testimony is a fulfillment of this Elijah message.

1 John 2:12-14
12 I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

13 I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.

14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. KJV

This is a family message. God, the Father's purpose is to have a family.

Joe

 

[whirlwind]

Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse."

whirlwind,

John, the apostle's testimony is a fulfillment of this Elijah message.

1 John 2:12-14
12 I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

13 I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.

14 I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. KJV

This is a family message. God, the Father's purpose is to have a family.

Joe

Yes Joe...we are His family.

Thank you for quoting the [1 John ] scriptures. My thoughts on them are that the "little children" being addressed are the "man child" of end times. If I am correct in that then their "fathers" would be the "remnant," or...those that have carried His Word forward through the ages. The elect of their earthly time.

Part of the Malachi prophecy is that the spirit of Elijah will turn God's children to Him, one of the Fathers. But, I see the fathers being written of as more than us being called. I see it meaning that there is one other father. The battle is between two forces, two choices that must be made in the end of days.

John 8:38 I speak that which I have seen with My Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father."

8:41-42 Ye do the deeds of your father." Then said they to Him, "We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God." Jesus said unto them, "If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me.

8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speakth of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

 

[Sparkey]

I love the quote in Malachi. We can ponder the silence of God in the temple and see the desperate acts of the Children of Israel when they wanted to have the settling presence of God return to dwell in the Temple. Clearly they understood that they would not be able to have the Promises made by God to their fathers kept in their lives without His dwelling and settling presence (the shekhinah glory) in the Temple.

What they didn't know? That God desired to dwell in men and tabernacle with us. That God desired to write the Law into the tables of our hearts and not into stone as He had. That God would send His Son personally to them, that it was within the plan of God, should they reject His son, to have His presence indwelt into the Chosen (Jews) and Gentiles alike.

The sacrifice that was offered once by Jesus sanctified all those who understood and declared that Jesus was the One, the Messiah, the Apostle (sent one) of God. It wasn't many days after God stamped His permanent approval on the sacrifice and Jesus arose that the Holy Spirit that was promised, the "Promise of the Father" was sent and God accomplished His desire. Clearly there was a new agreement between God and man - and this one was far more glorious than any other.

The heart of God can not be "turned". There is no shadow of turning in Him. This was His intent all along. From the beginning we see this because God is God and has accomplished all things. What fathers should "turn their hearts to their children"??

What is the message of Elijah? We are clearly instructed that John the Baptist was Elijah. He was the one in the wilderness who shouted "Make straight the path" - He cried out a heartfelt cry of repentance. Along with this the people of his time heard, "The King is Coming!" And it was so. The King did come and was led as a lamb to the slaughter.

What fathers were the last words of the Old Covenant speaking about? What children? By the testimony and witness and words words and life of Christ himself we can not believe that our Heavenly Father's heart needed to be turned. But there was one father whose heart needed this: Mine.

As a child my heart needed to turn to God. As a father my heart was lead by God through my love and concern for my sons. I have often pondered what it would be like if Fathers (like those of my dad's generation who were primarily "bread winners") and like me (who was part of the "baby boomers" generation) were to have our hearts turned thus. Would divorce rates plunge? If it is by nature that woman nurtures how could she resist a man who had a heart for their children? If there were any hint of crime against children and a single father noticed it would not his outraged scream notify every male within earshot as he charged to protect? Would this not be more fearsome than the charge of a bull elephant? Men of God, calling upon the Name of God and standing united? Women of God standing as strong and as able also united? What would happen if we had our hearts turned to our fathers and our children?

Would God be able to raise up such an army that even the wayward Children of Israel would become provoked to Jealousy by the very rightness of it? What if these men, turning to their Father in heaven and with their hearts turned to their children in a Godly way were also (and finally) circumcised in their hearts before Him? What if they were given the Word of Truth in their hearts and mouths and had weapons mighty unto the pulling down of stongholds and stood against Principalities and Powers in high places by the word of their testimony, the confession of their mouth and the blood of the Lamb?

Could this be something found in the turning of the hearts of the fathers? Now if the spirit of rebellion was replaced by one of respect within the hearts of their children. Would it take more than a single generation for this to have great effect? What I am asking here is, if we can imagine a body of believers who have come together and by the very word of God Himself - have become that "nation born in a single day" --- can we not imagine that the Holy Spirit is able to turn hearts?

I love to imagine that day and want to join myself to the "spirit of Elijah" to those who have an ear to hear, let them hear!

~Sparrowhawke



~Sparrowhawke

 

[whirlwind]

I love the quote in Malachi. We can ponder the silence of God in the temple and see the desperate acts of the Children of Israel when they wanted to have the settling presence of God return to dwell in the Temple. Clearly they understood that they would not be able to have the Promises made by God to their fathers kept in their lives without His dwelling and settling presence (the shekhinah glory) in the Temple.

What they didn't know? That God desired to dwell in men and tabernacle with us. That God desired to write the Law into the tables of our hearts and not into stone as He had. That God would send His Son personally to them, that it was within the plan of God, should they reject His son, to have His presence indwelt into the Chosen (Jews) and Gentiles alike.

The sacrifice that was offered once by Jesus sanctified all those who understood and declared that Jesus was the One, the Messiah, the Apostle (sent one) of God. It wasn't many days after God stamped His permanent approval on the sacrifice and Jesus arose that the Holy Spirit that was promised, the "Promise of the Father" was sent and God accomplished His desire. Clearly there was a new agreement between God and man - and this one was far more glorious than any other.

The heart of God can not be "turned". There is no shadow of turning in Him. This was His intent all along. From the beginning we see this because God is God and has accomplished all things. What fathers should "turn their hearts to their children"??

What is the message of Elijah? We are clearly instructed that John the Baptist was Elijah. He was the one in the wilderness who shouted "Make straight the path" - He cried out a heartfelt cry of repentance. Along with this the people of his time heard, "The King is Coming!" And it was so. The King did come and was led as a lamb to the slaughter.

What fathers were the last words of the Old Covenant speaking about? What children? By the testimony and witness and words words and life of Christ himself we can not believe that our Heavenly Father's heart needed to be turned. But there was one father whose heart needed this: Mine.

As a child my heart needed to turn to God. As a father my heart was lead by God through my love and concern for my sons. I have often pondered what it would be like if Fathers (like those of my dad's generation who were primarily "bread winners") and like me (who was part of the "baby boomers" generation) were to have our hearts turned thus. Would divorce rates plunge? If it is by nature that woman nurtures how could she resist a man who had a heart for their children? If there were any hint of crime against children and a single father noticed it would not his outraged scream notify every male within earshot as he charged to protect? Would this not be more fearsome than the charge of a bull elephant? Men of God, calling upon the Name of God and standing united? Women of God standing as strong and as able also united? What would happen if we had our hearts turned to our fathers and our children?

Would God be able to raise up such an army that even the wayward Children of Israel would become provoked to Jealousy by the very rightness of it? What if these men, turning to their Father in heaven and with their hearts turned to their children in a Godly way were also (and finally) circumcised in their hearts before Him? What if they were given the Word of Truth in their hearts and mouths and had weapons mighty unto the pulling down of stongholds and stood against Principalities and Powers in high places by the word of their testimony, the confession of their mouth and the blood of the Lamb?

Could this be something found in the turning of the hearts of the fathers? Now if the spirit of rebellion was replaced by one of respect within the hearts of their children. Would it take more than a single generation for this to have great effect? What I am asking here is, if we can imagine a body of believers who have come together and by the very word of God Himself - have become that "nation born in a single day" --- can we not imagine that the Holy Spirit is able to turn hearts?

I love to imagine that day and want to join myself to the "spirit of Elijah" to those who have an ear to hear, let them hear!

~Sparrowhawke



~Sparrowhawke

This is exactly the thought of another forum friend on the meaning of those Malachi verses, except hers wasn't as well written. I agree with all you have said Sparrow for if that could be accomplished then so many problems would be gone forever.

I have heard that scripture can have more than one meaning but the meanings will never conflict. I believe that is the case here. Above you said that "The heart of God can not be "turned" and that "it was His intent all along." Yes...it was certainly His intent but His heart can be turned and where this is written seems to have a direct correlation to the Malachi verses and to both of our understandings of those verses.....


Zechariah 1:2-3 "The LORD hath been sore displeased with your fathers. Therefore say thou unto them, 'Thus saith the LORD of hosts; 'Turn ye unto Me, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the LORD of hosts.


I see both of our thoughts written there....what do you think?

 

[Sparkey]

Excellent scripture. I was focusing on:

Jas 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Jas 1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Jas 1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
Jas 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Jas 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Jas 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

When I look to the passage in Zechariah my thoughts are also quickened to:

Jas 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Jas 4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
Jas 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jas 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
Jas 4:9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
Jas 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

So you've asked what I thought? I stand corrected and thankful. It was a verse timely quoted too because I am even now being drawn to a time of "cleansing my hands" (purge me with hyssop, Lord that I might not be ashamed) and would ask for prayer in this. Oh! and thank you also for the confirming thought from your friend. It is always good to hear what is springing up in others. We are small plants now perhaps? Let us be even more willing to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, love each other, obey the king (man's authority). That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; That every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Why kick against the pricks of the Holy Spirit? Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.

The love that flows between the members of His body that has been prophesied of is still yet to come. But the seeds of it have and are germinating and growing and in some cases (our older brothers and sisters in the Lord) they are saplings. We are to be trees. We are to delight in the Law:

• As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
  My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
  My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?

• Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

I love and depend on a certain scripture, "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Doing things in the flesh puffeth. I heard a saying amongst the children (Christians) the other day: "Don't be drunk like a skunk ~~but Hear-It, Be ye filled with the Spirit (wherein there is no excess). We are to be sober minded and stand fast.


Joyfully,
~Sparrow

 

[whirlwind]

Excellent scripture. I was focusing on:

Jas 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Jas 1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Jas 1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
Jas 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Jas 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Jas 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Neither shadow of turning...OR...I will turn unto you??? What is meant? As He is not the author of confusion, why do these two verses make me

When I look to the passage in Zechariah my thoughts are also quickened to:

Jas 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Jas 4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
Jas 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Jas 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Jas 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
Jas 4:9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
Jas 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

So you've asked what I thought? I stand corrected and thankful. It was a verse timely quoted too because I am even now in the process of "cleansing my hands" and would like prayer in this.

Joyfully,
~Sparrow

James 4:8 does seem to be about the process of turning to Him. Please let me know how you rectify the two "turning" Scriptures.

 

[Sparkey]

It's like He is saying, "I, who can never be bent, am BENT on turning toward my children!"

 

[sheshisown]

:waving~ Precious saints...

I am so blessed by much of the converse here ~ listening to the voice of the music that flows between Christ and His church my brothers words remembered here.

I wonder how it is we do not always bless one another this way? Is it that we are not always yoked together as we ought to be? In our families by the tie of familial blood~ yes. But as both Sparrow and Joe point so tentatively… joined into one Body by the blood of Christ Jesus... forever family. :heart

So I take up uor brothers encouragement~

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Mat 11:28-30

The Greek word translated "easy" means a "good fit". Because an ill~fitting yoke would cause chafing of the hide or even a dislocation of the animal's shoulder, yokes were (custom ~ designed) to ensure a perfect fit. Oxen labored in pairs (And Jesus sends His disciples in twos) :D

No doubt Jesus knew exactly what He spoke about in using this analogy, for the Greek word translated "carpenter" which is used concerning Joseph and, by implication, Jesus (his son and co-laborer) is "tekton", from which we get our word "technical".

The "tekton' was not the framer~ which builds the frame to hang the walls and stairways and cabinetry on. But rather the finish carpenter, a master craftsman. The finish carpenter does all the mill work, the cabinetry, and wood trim work, his craft includes the all work with wood that requires excellent measuring and fitting skills. Jesus and His father, Joseph, were master craftsmen. So, there is historical evidence to support the tradition that says; the specialty in their carpenter shop was yokes. :D

"Take My yoke upon you," Jesus says. . ."It will fit you perfectly and the load you are pulling will become light as you link with Me."
:D He gives us the family we need to make us His co-laborers, He gives us the work and school and duties that are “easy†for us, a perfect fit. Yet at times the yoke still chaffs my neck, you say? (I say)?
Yet the word says:

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers ... 2 Cor 6:14
SO often we hear the sermons that tell us of the linking between man and wife in the bond of God's holy union preached from this passage, and it is joyful and it is right. Thou the metaphor Jesus uses speaks of laboring together. Surely any man or woman who has been married knows it’s WORK. But do not take my voice as Manard G Cribbs voice… Thou in remembrance of married days, I sometimes do. But intending WORK that is labor that goes deep into the muscle and sinew of the two yoked there. Binding and combining, and entwining into that threefold cord. The golden one at it’s center.

For work is what oxen do, and is the first and last works of the ministry among the saints in preaching the gospel. We labor together to hear~ to receive~ and to spread~ His blessed word throughout this dark world. Like a layer of light going out in beaming rays over darkness.
Now look my beloved brothers and sisters here~

My daughter and I in raising my second grandchild 9 or so years ago~ placed sponge letters in her bath water along with cups to fill and drown little boats with. These “specified letters†were IXOYE. For my dearest youngest child~ SO desired to minister the word into her little girls heart that she taught their meaning at every opportunity and the child was brought into the kingdom at the tender age of three. I remember hearing her as she sat at potty, talking to Jesus and asking the King to come and live in her heart, because she was a bad girl and wanted to be good for her mommy. Tears come now… sweet memories glorious moments.

But see~ my daughter and I were linked to Him, to His church, to His saints and the power and goodness of that link caused the little one following after us to come and to join in the reverie and in the WORK. She is yoked to Christ now 9 years old and serving her family faithfully loving to be obedient. For He grows fruit within and without and creates anew the wine of Joy inside her. And there are three little shoots now~ boys that bring barbs of boyish destruction and chiding with much need of nurturing. Yet God has designed her yoke perfectly.

Shhh now carefully… we see how we become joyless and lonely when we yoke ourselves to this world, to its entertainments. As we learn to welcome its fascinations, to lose our way within the din of civilization. The yoke so chaffs the neck and it may break under the strain of diverse directions of heart. But let us draw away and be drawn away by His love… ever closer to our brethren (and sisteren). ;)Depart… and escape the world’s entrapments, for it is trust in man that makes us stray. :verysad
See~ the center verse in the word of God reads:

Psalm 118:8 It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man.

My soul has tasted of the grapes,
And now it longs to go~
Where my dear Lord His vineyard keeps,
And all the clusters grow.

Upon the true and living Vine,
My famish’d soul would feast~
And banquet on the fruit divine
An everlasting guest. (CH Spurgeon)

sheshisown~

 

[Sparkey]

We are indeed yoked well. Gentle reminder here - it is the Spirit that jointly fits us together. Unto him is our thanks for both the will and the way.

Shall we ponder the ways of the Lord? Can he provoke to jealousy? He can. It is His spirit in us that lusteth to envy and as we continue to throw down the things that are of the world and cast our eyes upon our Husband, our Father, our King these widows and orphans become a very peculiar thing.

What orphan or widow or poor is like us? What barren womb rejoices? It is I! My cry is unto heaven and all mankind. PRAISE HIM! He inhabits the praises of His people. Our Joy is seen as we share a glass at the wedding feast of the King. And thanks to all who join to what we sing! Hallelujah!

~Sparrow