God's Prescription for Healing

"If my people, which are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and forgive their sin and will heal their land"  2 Chronicles 7:14

2 Chronicles 7:14 speaks about the people of God who were called by the name of God. Clearly, God was not speaking to the unsaved, but to the saved.  It starts, "If my people...." This promise was originally given to Solomon, the Israelite King, concerning the people of Israel.   God said through Solomon that if His people would do four things, humble themselves, pray, and seek His face, turn from their wicked ways, He would forgive their sin and heal their land.  

It is amazing that just four things done by the people of God would heal so much of the brokenness that we are experiencing today. So much of the crime and violence in our inner cities, and in our suburbs, in our schools, and in our homes is due to sin, lack of respect for human life, and a total disrespect for God! I don't know about you, but I need a few things healed, a few things mended, a few things fixed, a few things restored in my life!  What an awesome promise this is!  It is much more than a quick fix.  It does what Alleve, Advil, and Tamaflu can't do.  It is a prescription for healing.

It is so important that as intercessors and as Bible-believing people of God that we remain humble and on our knees before Yahweh, our Almighty God, seeking His face daily and not just His hand. Some devotions on this text say that God is asking us to do three things and not four, that pray and seek His face are really one and the same.  I beg to differ.  I believe God wants us to pray (persistently, every day) and seek His face.  When we seek the face of God, we ask the will of God despite what it is we want to do because His will is what's best. That's why reading the Word of God is so important. Therein we find the will of God, the B-I-B-L-E has our Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.  When we read the Bible we gain insight into what God would have us do in our specific circumstance.  When we seek the face of God, we seek the presence of God, the way a baby stretches its arms to be in its mother's lap, or the way we stretch our legs to soak up the warmth of the sun, (and Son) on a beautiful sunny day. The good news is we have an advocate with the Father in Jesus Christ who sits at His right hand making intercessions for us! What happens to us is predicated on our relationship with God and on us doing our part in it. 

Let us claim 2 Chronicles 7:14 today. We are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Let us not sit on the premises at home, at work, at school, at church, nor here in this ministry, but stand on the promises of God.   If we do our part, then God promises to forgive our sin and heal the land.  What an awesome God we serve!  He is Jehovah Rapha, the God who heals. To Him be glory and honor, dominion and power both now and forever!  Amen.

Getting Into the Word: Malachi 3:10 Famously Misapplied

This week's lesson in Malachi 3:1-10 is the last in my Walking With Jesus Summer Series. I hope you have gained a few valuable insights from recent recaps from the prophets Micah, Jeremiah, Isaiah, Zechariah. These brief recaps served as a source of inspiration to stay in your Bible and study your lessons during the "dog days" of summer. Exciting times are ahead! The new quarter begins next week on the book of Acts where we will learn more about the growth of the early ch...urch. Good stuff! Back to Malachi.

Malachi was unique in that he was the last of the Old Testament prophets. Though all of the OT books are not in chronological order as to when they were written, Malachi really is the last book. When God finishes speaking here, he says not a word for 400 years until he announces his Son Jesus.
Malachi in a nutshell: Worshipping God is not about doing the least you can do to get by, but about "keeping it 100," wholeheartedly. The tone of this book is not jovial but angry. Malachi reprimanded the Israelites for disregarding God's laws, and bringing damaged crops and sacrifices. They also failed to give the tithe which supported the priest and levites. They acted as if they were innocent and/or totally oblivious to their own disobedience and wickedness. Malachi stated, "Ever since the days of your ancestors, you have scorned my decrees and failed to obey them. Now, return to me and I will return to you, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies. But you ask, 'How can we return when we have never gone astray? '"
The Isrealites went astray and we have, in many respects, gone astray today in our giving, yes, but also in our misapplication of Malachi 3:10, "Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be food in my Temple. If you do, says the Lord of Heaven's Armies, I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have room enough to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!" This text is famously presented as a "give-to-get" text. We ought give as an act of worship, because it is the right thing to do. Let us repent and turn back to God in every area of our lives, also in the application of God's word.
The follow link shares more on how Malachi 3:10 is famously misapplied.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php…

Jesus Saves Ministries Day at the Movies

It was Jesus Saves Ministries Day at the movies on Saturday, August 29th! A group of us put our war clothes on and went to see the movie WAR ROOM at the Carrmike Cinemas Stony Brook 20. The movie is a must see! Get your group together, family, church members and friends and support this movie on the power of prayer! It will make you laugh. It will make you cry, but most of all, it will make you more inspired to pray! Jesus Saves Ministries is celebrating our 10th anniversary so I brought along giveaways for everyone, great new gospel music CDs by Marvin Sapp, Israel & New Breed, JJ Hairston, Risen, and local artist Michael Young and In God's Presence. Pastors Thomas and Linda Moore gave DVD of their weekly cable ministry. We are planning another movie day real soon. Don't miss it! Jesus saves!

Getting Into the Word: Straight Outta Ezekiel!

My aunt Evangelist Carolyn McKinney  posted this tag about children taking personal responsibility in her Facebook group, Armed and Extremely Dangerous Warriors the Kingdom.   This is what Ezekiel Chapter 18 is about in a nutshell, our Bible study lesson this week!

The Israelites tried to blame their exile in Babylonian captivity on the sins of their forefathers,  as if they did nothing themselves to deserve it.  The prophet Jeremiah warned them time and again to repent and turn from their wicked ways, and so did his contemporary Ezekiel. The Iraelites weren't hearing their loose rap, though.  They worshipped idols and did everything they were big and bad enough to do. They cited a proverb from the past (v2), "The parents eat sour grapes, and the children's teeth are on edge," but God wasn't hearing that either!  He told them He didn't want to hear that proverb ever again, because they were using it to shift blame and avoid taking responsibility for their sins.  He said in v4, "The person who sins is the one who will die."

He goes on to say in v20, "The child will not be punished for the parent's sins, and the parent will not be punished for the child's sins. Righteous people will be rewarded for their own righteous behavior, and wicked people will be punished for their own wickedness."

Children need to be taught from a young age to take responsibility for their actions, and what the Word of God says about this in Ezekiel 18.  This trumps generational curses. And even if they are not rewarded by the world's standards, God will reward them for their right acts by His standard because He is a just God.  Jesus saves!

Getting In the Word: Jeremiah Chapter 7

GETTING INTO THE WORD: The weeping prophet Jeremiah wasn't weeping and wailing for no reason, or shall I say, without reason. This major prophet prophesied 600 years before the birth of Christ in Judah, the southern part of the divided kingdom prior to and during Babylonian captivity.  The books of Jeremiah and Lamentations both bear his name. When Jeremiah saw the depravity of his people, he cried. He cried for them, and he cried to them over and over again to change their wicked ways. In verse 3, the Lord told him to tell the people, "Reform your ways and your actions, and I will let you live in this place." Don't you hear Jeremiah crying aloud today?

In Jeremiah chapter 7, we find Jeremiah preaching at a strategic position at the temple entrance. The Lord sent him there to warn the people to reform. The people, though, weren't havin' it. They thought since they had the temple and the Lord was with them they could do whatever they wanted as long as they went to church and gave their sacrifices. 9 “‘Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury,[a burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, 10 and then come and stand before me in this house, which bears my Name, and say, “We are safe”—safe to do all these detestable things? 11 Has this house, which bears my Name, become a den of robbers to you? But I have been watching! declares the Lord."

In verse 12, Jeremiah told the people to go to Shiloh. God's temple was once there, but He destroyed it. God told the people through the prophet, don't think I won't destroy your temple, too,  “‘Go now to the place in Shiloh where I first made a dwelling for my Name, and see what I did to it because of the wickedness of my people Israel. 13 While you were doing all these things, declares the Lord, I spoke to you again and again, but you did not listen; I called you, but you did not answer.14 Therefore, what I did to Shiloh I will now do to the house that bears my Name, the temple you trust in, the place I gave to you and your ancestors. 15 I will thrust you from my presence, just as I did all your fellow Israelites, the people of Ephraim.’

Newsflash! It ain't about the building. It ain't about superficial religiosity. It's about a geniuine covenant relationship with almighty God. We can't do whatever we want -- disobey, disrespect, dishonor, the Lord and expect to receive His blessings. It ain't gonna happen... not then, not now! Jesus saves!

Happenings on the Jesus Saves Social Network - August 6th

 

Black Clergy, Dems Vow To Restore Voting Rights Act On 50th Anniversary

Calling it a “moral issue,” prominent Black clergy leaders will join President Barack Obama in the push to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which celebrates is 50th anniversary on Thursday.

You may recall that the Supreme Court in 2013 struck down a key provision of the measure that required nine Southern states with a legacy of racial discrimination to procure federal approval before amending their voting laws. The decision made it possible for states such as North Carolina and Texas to adopt restrictive rules requiring votes to bring certain identification to the polls.

The president and other Democrats such as Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz argue that the laws discourage people of color from heading to the polls.

Republicans, who on Thursday are poised to square off in the first 2016 presidential debate, contend that strict ID laws are aimed at reducing voter fraud.

“Today we are witnessing the most vicious and draconian assault that we’ve witnessed in 50 years since the Voting Rights Act was enacted,” the Rev. Dr. Raphael Gamaliel Warnock, senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., told NewsOne on Wednesday.

“We must fight to protect the right of every American to end this vicious assault,” he said. “We’re calling on Congress to fix the Voting Rights Act.”  Read more at Newsone.com.

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Rev. LaShonda Fletcher, Drops By With New Book, The Black Church and Mental Health

I could not make it to the book signing on Saturday, but look at God! I have my copy of Rev. Lashonda Fletcher's new book, The Black Church and Mental Health. This is a subject about which I have written and I am glad to see other clergy here locally addressing how the black church can help congregants and their families in this area.

Congratulations to Rev. Lashonda on the release of her new book and grand opening of the Revelation Counseling Center! She stopped by The Life Conference Suite on Monday after her on-air radio interview with Ms. Krystal on 104.7 FM. I enjoyed our conversation and look forward to reading the book and seeing the counseling center soon! The book is available on Ebay. TGBTG!

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Nashville Non-Denominational Church Launches New Church in Louisville

You Can't Hurt God's Property, YCHGP, Praise and Worship Center is officially one church in two locations, Nashville and Louisville with the dedication Sunday, August 2nd of their Louisville location at 2001 W.  Broadway, in The Life Conference Suite.  Bishop Floyd L. Stone, performed the ceremony installing Rev. Richard Smith as Sr. Pastor. The group Men Standing for Christ and songstress First Lady Nebra Smith rendered songs of praise.  Pastor Richard Smith preached from the text, John 6:63, the message entitled, Being Filled With the Spirit..

YCHGP worship services are Sundays at 2:00 pm,  Bible Study, prayer, and choir rehearsals,  Mondays at 6:00 pm; and Health & Wellness Ministry/Dare to Care, 4th Mondays at 6:30. The church meets in The Life Conference Suite,  directly across the hall from the WLOU/WLLV radio studios, 2001 West Broadway,  Suite 10. If you are looking for a church home, or a place to worship and grow in the word, check out YCHGP Praise and Worship Center.

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Jesus In the Building at Cincinnati Music Festival

Jesus was in the building at the Cincinnati Music Festival Saturday, July 25th! The fest featured R&B artists Frankie Beverly & Maze, Jill Scott, Kem, Avery Sunshine, and gospel crossover artist Mali Music.We now have first-hand knowledge of the present-day Cincinnati Music Festival. Mali Music performed his entire set doning a Jesus cap and representing with hit songs, "You're Beautiful,"  and "I Believe" among others. Avery Sunshine took us to church, and her church song had the whole stadium on their feet. Talk about witnessing for Christ, the first three performers, including Kem, did that. And Frank Beverly -at age 69- and Maze were better than I remember back in the day.  Their performance was very positive, and they certainly kept the stadium engaged. They started off with songs, "We Are One," and "Happy Feelings."  The people were singing and dancing when we left the stadium.   We didn't hear vulgar language on Saturday, nothing degrading or derogatory. There was no violence that we saw. My 30-year-old son went on Friday and enjoyed Jennifer Hudson the most.  I can say Jesus and gospel music were part of the Cincinnati Music Festival.  I hope that trend continues.

 

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Celebrate Your Freedom In Christ

By: Min. Angela Lee Price

In this month of outdoor festivities and fireworks, we celebrate freedom and independence. Here on the Jesus Saves Social Network, we celebrate the Christians' freedom in Christ everyday.  Freedom in Christ describes the spiritual liberty, or freedom, we have as followers of Jesus Christ.  Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have been set free from the  power and the penalty of sin.  We have been set free from the obligation to obey God's laws in our own strength. The Bible states, "So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.  And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death"(Romans 8:1-2). 

  

Freedom in Christ affords us the power to obey God out of love rather that obligation.  Freedom in Christ allows us by the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome temptation and those sins that so easily beset us.   Freedom does not give us the right to do whatever we want, disregarding God's laws, but gives us power to keep His commandments.  Romans 6:1-2 states, "Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace?  Of course not!  Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?"

Brothers and sisters, not only do we celebrate freedom in Christ, we celebrate freedom with Christ.  Jesus is alive now at the right hand of the Father making intercessions for us.  Jesus is a friend who sticks closer than a brother!  We live with Christ right now through the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:10-11 states, "And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God.  The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you.  And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you." Isn't that good news!  And when we get to heaven, Jesus has prepared an eternal home for us free from the very presence of sin in our lives (John 3:16). Glory to God!

Brothers and sisters, God has given us freedom to live not only in Christ and with Christ, but for Christ.  Here in the USA, we enjoy tremendous religious freedom. Please don't take it for granted. As the birds sing, and the "Son" shines, take advantage of the freedom you have to share that powerful testimony God has given you, that Scripture He has placed on your heart, that sermon excerpt that in faith will become a rhema word for a weary soul, that upcoming revival, conference or ministry event, that prayer request or praise report, and that birthday greeting or note of encouragement.  Use your freedom to become an instrument of God's drawing and saving power in someone's life. Has Jesus broken every chain that had you bound in sin and shame?  Has Jesus set you free?  We would love to hear what great and marvelous things God is doing in your life today.

We are blessed by your presence here, but we know in faith that the best is yet to come as you celebrate your freedom in Christ. God has given us great opportunities to share our faith.  He has given each of us great and wonderful gifts. Use them to His glory! Tell somebody, everybody, anybody, "I are not ashamed of the gospel. For it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes!" Celebrate your freedom in Christ, and share the good news that Jesus saves!

If you have a passion for Christ and enjoy blogging and witnessing on the internet, join us on the Jesus Saves Social Network and post once daily.  You don't have to re-invent the wheel.  Post whatever you have posted on your website site or elsewhere.  Jesus saves!

Remembering the Charleston Nine

One week has past since Rev. Clementa Pinckney and eight church members at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, SC were killed in a massacre in a Wednesday night prayer meeting. Thank God, the 21-year-old confessed gunman who committed this heinous act was apprehended quickly. While this nation feels the pain, hurt, and sorrow of this senseless trajedy, we have seen so much hope across this nation as churches have held prayer vigils and rallies in solidarity against racism and for justice and the right of all people, regardless of color, to be treated equally.  And on Monday, South Carolina Governor Haley held a press conference to say that it is time for the Confederate flag, a symbol of hatred and division, to come down from the South Carolina state capitol. Walmart, Sears, and Kmart announced they would ceasing selling merchandise containing the Confedrate flag. It is an important first step toward healing.  I tell you prayer changes things!   Prayer changes things!

It has been inspiring to see the overwhelming outpouring of love and support, the unity of people of various ethnicities connected by faith in almighty God, and to see the thousands rallying peacefully in the streets. It is clear there is much discussion to be had around race and race relations. We ought, as Dr. King said, judge people not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.  Sadly, we still have work to do in realizing Dr. King's dream. The church must renew her commitment to saving souls, preaching and teaching righteousness and living virtuously, filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit. She must lead the discussion on racial matters as well.
As the three men and six women are eulogized this week, I am trusting God that the Charleston nine, the Mother Emanuel nine, good God-fearing people did not die in vain. May they rest in peace in the arms of Jesus.  Jesus saves!

Remembering the Mother Emanuel Nine

One week has past since Rev. Clementa Pinckney and eight church members at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, SC were killed in a massacre in a Wednesday night prayer meeting. Thank God, the 21-year-old confessed gunman who committed this heinous act was apprehended quickly. While this nation feels the pain, hurt, and sorrow of this senseless trajedy, we have seen so much hope across this nation as churches have held prayer vigils and rallies in solidarity against racism and for justice and the right of all people, regardless of color, to be treated equally.  And on Monday, South Carolina Governor Haley held a press conference to say that it is time for the Confederate flag, a symbol of hatred and division, to come down from the South Carolina state capitol. Walmart, Sears, and Kmart announced they would ceasing selling merchandise containing the Confedrate flag. It is an important first step toward healing.  I tell you prayer changes things!   Prayer changes things!

It has been inspiring to see the overwhelming outpouring of love and support, the unity of people of various ethnicities connected by faith in almighty God, and to see the thousands rallying peacefully in the streets. It is clear there is much discussion to be had around race and race relations. We ought, as Dr. King said, judge people not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.  Sadly, we still have work to do in realizing Dr. King's dream. The church must renew her commitment to saving souls, preaching and teaching righteousness and living virtuously, filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit. She must lead the discussion on racial matters as well.
As the three men and six women are eulogized this week, I am trusting God that the Charleston nine, the Mother Emanuel nine, good God-fearing people did not die in vain. May they rest in peace in the arms of Jesus.  Jesus saves!

Happy Father's Day from Jesus Saves Ministries

We celebrate Father's Day first by giving honor to our Heavenly Father who has been better to each of us than we have to ourselves.  Thank you, Lord for being a father to the fatherless and mother to the motherless! 
We celebrate Father's Day with the theme "Real Men Love Jesus." Join with us in honoring the nobility, elegance, and demands of being a father. Fathers throughout history have had great dreams, offered intercessory prayers, guided us, protected us, encouraged us, loved us, taught us to be strong, to use our imagination and improve ourselves and our communities. We thank the Lord for God-fearing fathers, and for the fathers who represent for Jesus with ministry and social network.
We are grateful for fathers who know Jesus and realize that God's grace, full of mercy and justice, is the force that gives all of us life and men the opportunity to be fathers.
Happy Father's Day, fathers from Jesus Saves Ministries,  Louisville!