~ DESTRUCTION OR DELIVERANCE? ~ What’s coming? Here we are! 2014 is better than 1/2 gone, and so far, the world has not ended as the naysayers and prognosticators have said. We have survived the doom and gloom predictions - God has not destroyed the earth because of man’s sin! Even the USA – as bad as some believe it is – has thus far escaped the great “judgment.” And we can align every negative calculation up against this nation – or the whole world – and yet, when we do, I believe we look very foolish to a righteous and holy God whose intent is to save mankind – from sin and from ourselves! Have we forgotten the purpose of Jesus? He said, ~ “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John.10:10). He is still in the “Life-Giving” business! So why do we spend so much time talking about the “Judgment of God” on our nation? Jesus took “judgment” on the Cross so that we might have LIFE! Perhaps we have the same problem that the Israelites had when the spies were sent into the Promised Land to determine if they could posses it. Here’s the account: Twelve spies went into the Promised Land; ten came back with a bad report, declaring their fear of the “enemy” and assurance of ultimate defeat. But only two – Joshua and Caleb – encouraged them to do what God commanded, saying: ~ “We should by all means go up and take possession of this Land, for we will surely overcome it” (Numbers.13:30). Despite the promises that God had given them, the children of Israel came into agreement with the majority – who were fearful and unbelieving. Thus they aligned themselves with a lie! And because of their unbelief, another generation of Israelites had to die off before they were able – led by Joshua and Caleb who believed God – to take possession of that land – 40-years later! Even now, it is vitally important that you align yourselves with those who have the “good report” from the Lord. Don’t align with those who propagate fear! Rather, align yourselves with the promises, people and purposes of God (See Matthew.24:6-14). TAKE THE LAND FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD! This is not the time to abandon our calling and purpose, but now we must come into His alignment to see His Greater Works through us!(John.14:12) Come on! Let’s be those who BELIEVE GOD FOR HIS GREAT OUTPOURING! Let’s be those whose hearts – set upon God – tell the Good News of Jesus who came to save the world (John.3:16). If you believe the naysayers, you will shut down in fear! But there is NO FEAR HERE! Let’s run with the purpose of God in our hearts: ~ “I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am … reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me ... I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward - to Jesus. I’m off and running and I’m NOT TURNING BACK. Keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us” (Philippians.3:12-15 MSG). Ours is the OUTRAGEOUS LIFE! Not fearful but faithful! “We’re not quitters who lose out. Oh, no! We’ll stay with it and survive, trusting all the way” (Hebrews.10:39 MSG). ~ Shelia Hart Artt outrageousgrace.org/destruction-deliverance/
Posted on: Fri, 01 Aug 2014 00:46:00 +0000