“My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.” (Psalm 5:3)
How we start our day most often dictates the pattern for the remainder of it. Perhaps not the actual circumstances of the day, but certainly our mindset as we navigate through them. Beginning our day peacefully focused on God allows us to respond, rather than react, to events through the day. It also empowers us to walk through our days with purpose as ambassadors of Christ, and with compassion as laborers in His harvest field.
Here are four morning habits that I have cultivated in my own life through the years. I try to accomplish them before interacting with other humans for mine, as well as their sakes:)
1. BIBLE STUDY
I begin my mornings with coffee and the Word. I am continually reading the Bible through, having completed it 30+ times since beginning my Christian walk. Reading from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22 is not the ideal way to study the bible, but it has become my morning routine to pick up where I left off the day before. If I have to get moving unexpectedly, and can’t get my reading in, I feel the loss throughout the day.
I also listen to the scriptures as I read along. I find the more ways you can get the Word into your spirit, the more likely it is to take root. Decades ago, I purchased an mp3 player, preloaded with the KJV Bible for an astronomical amount of money. The guy who sold it to me was probably laughing at his good fortune, and at how gullible I was, but what great investment it has proven to be! That little electronic device has traveled around the world several times, faithfully piping God’s Word into my ears in many different countries.
I’m sure someone might notice that I’ve listed Bible study before prayer, and is shaking their head ever so slightly in disapproval. I find for myself that beginning with the Word, opens my heart to the avenue of prayer I need to pursue.
2. PRAYER
It can only benefit us to invite the Lord into our day. Together, we can walk and talk as we go along, and nothing is too hard with Him as our companion. I find that as I’m reading the Word, I realize the things I need to cover in prayer for the day. There are always a multitude of needs. Family members, friends, health, finances, direction, ministries, local, national and world events. The list is endless.
Before all the needs, however, which God already knows we have, why not simply spend time with Him in sweet communion? Not only to get the benefits of His hand, but to also feel the beat of His heart.
Prayer isn’t only about talking to God. It’s also about listening. In the silent waiting, He speaks comfort, direction, wisdom and even secrets if we learn to listen for His still, small voice.
If you are born again, evidenced by speaking in tongues, pray in the Spirit. When you don’t know what else to say, what else to pray for, or when you are overwhelmed by the needs, pray in the Holy Ghost.
3. READING
I always have a book within reach that I’m working through. Not a fiction book for pleasure reading. I reserve those books for the evening when I need to unwind. Early in the day, I reach for books on bible topics, spiritual disciplines or Christian principles that will instruct, strengthen and mature me in my walk with God.
I’m a firm believer that everything we put into our minds, stays there. Our miraculously created brains are the original super computers. We may not be able to pull everything we’ve ever read to the forefront when we choose, but it’s filed away for God to bring to remembrance when it’s needed. We can’t recall what we haven’t put in. This is also why we should be very careful to not put negative material into our brains. It never goes away.
4. JOURNALING
The last habit I’ll mention is journaling, or writing in some fashion. When we read God’s Word, pray, and consume beneficial material, a natural god-given creativity will manifest. Thoughts, ideas, questions, dreams, visions, and plans will begin to churn in our minds, and need an outlet.
I keep a spiral-bound notebook for this purpose. I’ve gone through seasons of journaling 500 words a day, but most often the pages have a thought and a date. I’ve gone back and constructed blogposts, articles, Bible studies and lessons from these bits of data. This is a great time to work on writing projects such as that pesky book idea that won’t leave you alone.
At the least, it’s a blessing to be able to go back through the years, and see where we were, and how much progress we’ve made. When we realize how far God has lead us, and all He has brought us through, our faith is magnified exponentially.
IN SUMMARY
How did your morning go? Was it frantic and rushed? Did you leave the house already frustrated and overwhelmed? Why not start tomorrow differently with Bible study, prayer, instructional reading and creative journaling? Set your alarm an hour earlier. It’ll be worth it.
“For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:“ (1 Corinthians 12:8-10)
When a person receives the baptism of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues, they also receive Gifts of the Spirit. There are nine of these gifts, and they are given to every member of the body, scripture says, “severally as he will.” (1 Corinthians 12:11) God chooses which gifts each person receives according to His omniscience, how the body of Christ will be benefited and likely by each person’s desire to be used.
Some bible topics we can speak on because we have studied the topic, and this of course is needful. Other topics, we can speak more fluently on because we have not only studied, but know from experience. Such is the case with the Gifts of Tongues & Interpretation. I am familiar with these two of the nine gifts of the Spirit because I have operated in both.
Between 35-40 years ago, my husband and I were sitting around the kitchen table with a minister in our local church. We were talking about the Gifts of the Spirit. Brother Pennington was asking us which gifts we would want if we had the choice. I immediately said I would want the gifts of tongues and interpretation. When he asked me why, I said because the thought of receiving a fresh Word for the congregation, straight from the throne of God, for that moment would be such an honor. He looked me straight in the eyes across the table, and simply said, “It’s yours.”
I didn’t feel any different in that moment, but the gifts of Tongues & Interpretation were stirred up, and began to grow in my spirit from that time. Over the next few years, the Lord took me through several seasons of learning. The first time I ever gave a message in tongues was at an Alabama district service. I gave both the message and the interpretation. I don’t remember what the interpretation consisted of, but I do remember the experience was life-altering for me. It was both terrifying and elating. The weight of giving a message from God to a gathered congregation was, and continues to be both a sobering, and overwhelming privilege.
Here are 16 things you need to know about giving a message or interpretation of tongues:
1. Speaking in tongues when you receive the Holy Ghost for the first time, and the Gift of Tongues are not the same thing. Everyone speaks in tongues as the initial sign of receiving the Holy Ghost, but not everyone who has received the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues, has the Gift of Tongues. As with all nine of the Gifts of the Spirit, a person must be filled with the Holy Ghost/Spirit to operate in any of them.
2. The Gifts of Tongues & Interpretation of Tongues are two gifts that work together. A person may have one or both. I operate in both, meaning when I give a message in tongues, the Lord also gives me the interpretation.
3. Tongues & Interpretation of Tongues bring a fresh Word of encouragement from God to a gathered group of believers. It may be a colosseum full, or where two or three are gathered in His name.
4. Immediately before a message in tongues is to go forth, there will usually be a quiet that settles over the congregation. It is a holy hush that precedes, and quietly heralds the Lord’s intention to speak a fresh Word. For this process to work properly, it takes the congregation, musicians and the minister to be sensitive to the Spirit. From personal experience, I will tell you that it’s a very uncomfortable feeling to have a message in tongues, but never have the opening in a service to give it.
5. A message in tongues with no interpretation brings confusion. If a message in tongues goes forth two or three times with no interpretation being spoken, the service should be allowed to move forward. Either it was not a true message in tongues; the person was simply worshipping the Lord in a demonstrative manner, or someone wasn’t being sensitive enough to receive the interpretation. A third option is that the person who should have given the interpretation was in the learning stage, and was either unsure, or too afraid to speak it forth.
6. A person who has any of the Gifts of the Spirit must learn how to operate in their gifting. This is a process, and people must be given the opportunity to learn, grow and mature in their gifting. Making mistakes, and getting it wrong occasionally is expected. If you feel like you have the Gifts of Tongues and/or Interpretion of tongues, you must learn the pattern of how God is unctioning you.
When I am supposed to give a message in tongues, I will feel a physical heaviness in my chest similar to my blood pressure elevating, and my heart will begin to pump harder and harder. This feeling will be followed by an overwhelming urge to speak out in tongues. The longer I wait to speak the message, the more pronounced (and uncomfortable) the physical symptoms become. This will have been preceded by the holy hush we mentioned, which is another level of confirmation that the time is right. *Hopefully, you can imagine and appreciate the level of discomfort a person might endure when the leaders of the service are not sensitive enough to allow for the quieting.
7. The interpretation of a message in tongues is not a translation. The bible is translated from one language to another in written form. A message in tongues is interpreted in a spoken form, filtering the overall meaning of the message through humanity. The length of the interpretation may not correspond to the length of the message.
8. An anointed message in tongues will never contradict the written Word of God. Never.
9. A person giving a message in tongues will usually speak out very forcefully. This message, as well as the interpretation, are backed by the unction of the Spirit. It is a flowing from the God of all glory, and as such, will be noticeably powerful. This is an added confirmation to those listening. Many times, they realize the person giving the message or interpretation would never speak out so forcefully on their own.
10. As for giving an interpretation of a message in tongues, I can only speak from my experience. I never receive the whole interpretation until I begin speaking the message in tongues. As I’m speaking the message in tongues, the Lord will drop a phrase into my mind. After the message in tongues, I will begin speaking that phrase in English so that everyone can hear and understand what I’m saying. I will not receive any more of the interpretation until I am speaking the initial phrase. This is an incredible test of faith that a person must press through, and trust that God will drop the remainder of the interpretation into their mind as they continue speaking. This is the pattern that God uses to flow through me in these two gifts.
11. Giving a message in tongues, or interpreting a message in tongues is not the gift of prophecy. Prophecy foretells the future. Tongues and Interpretation is for an immediate edification and comfort. It is the Spirit of the Lord drawing the congregation close in an intimate, Spirit-breathed embrace.
12. Following the message and/or interpretation of tongues, the speaker will experience a release that is simultaneously spiritual, emotional and physical. Spiritual because you have allowed the Holy Spirit of God to flow through you. Emotional because of the anointed word that was spoken, and physical because a human body can only handle this degree of Spirit flow for so long. After giving a message and interpretation of tongues, it is very common to praise demonstratively, cry openly, and even tremble and shake as your body reacclimates to a more normal flow of the Spirit.
13. A person does not have to hold any kind of office or position in the church to have, and operate in these giftings.
14. As with all nine of the Gifts of the Spirit, Tongues & Interpretation must be handled with care, and flowed in with order. There should be a level of trust and respect within a congregation for its members to be used in the Gifts, as well as an allowance for the learning process which is sometimes messy. Just because a person stumbles or hesitates when giving a message or interpretation, doesn’t mean they’re wrong, or not anointed. It usually means they are simply learning how to flow in the gifting.
15. Scripture tells us to covet (desire) the “best gifts.” This doesn’t mean that some gifts are lesser in value. It is an instruction to desire to operate in the gifting that will bring the most edification, and build up the body of believers at that time.
The following passage asks whether all speak in tongues, and whether all interpret. It is referring specifically to the Gifts of Tongues & the Interpretation of Tongues. It is NOT referring to the initial filling of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues. 1 Corinthians 12 is focused on teaching the nine Gifts of the Spirit, not the baptism of the Holy Ghost, which anyone operating in these gifts would have previously received.
After receiving the infilling of the Holy Ghost, we are to desire to operate in the “best” of the nine Gifts of the Spirit. The best gifts are the ones that will benefit the congregation the most at that time.If you have the Gift of Tongues, desire to also have the Gift of Interpretation of Tongues, so that both gifts may have free course to flow and edify.
“Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.“ (1 Corinthians 12:29-31)
16. Keeping order is very important when operating in the Gifts of the Spirit. When you give a message in tongues, assuming you do not have the interpretation, you are to speak the message two, or three times at the most, and then be silent if there is not interpretation forthcoming. Continuing to give the message with no interpretation will cause confusion. You may continue to worship and pray in tongues quietly.
If you have the interpretation, give it immediately after the message in tongues goes forth. Waiting to give the message causes undue stress on your counterpart, and confusion in the congregation.
If another person begins to give either a message or an interpretation at the same time as you, one of you must submit to the other. Be the one who submits. The Gifts are not for show, or to bring attention to any one person other than the Spirit of God. Again, from experience, I can tell you that to pull back, and allow someone else to give the message or interpretation while the anointing is upon you is extremely difficult. However, proper order and submission is more important than having our voice heard.
IN SUMMARY
If you have received the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues, you are a candidate to flow in the Gifts of the Spirit. Perhaps you have been in a church service, recognized the holy hush, and felt that weight in your chest. Maybe you have felt other telltale signs, unfamiliar to me, that you suspect are drawing you to give a message or interpretation of tongues.
I realize it can be extremely frightening to step out in faith, and probably even out of character, to speak boldly in a church service. Remember that the Gifts of the Spirit are for the edifying of the body. This is a God-ordained process, and it is a privilege to participate in it. You can do hard things. Bring your flesh, and mind, under subjection to the Spirit. God will literally be right there, flowing through you to bless the church family.
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” (1 John 2:15-17)
APPETITE VS LUST
Appetite is a God-given function of our bodies. It isn’t wrong to eat when you’re hungry, have an intimate relationship with your spouse, or to take a much needed vacation to relax and refocus. An appetite that has been allowed to run amuck with no discipline, however, morphs into a ravenous thing called LUST.
To lust after something is to crave it to the point of doing whatever is necessary to get it, regardless of the cost or consequences to yourself or others. Lust is uncontrolled appetite, and it is not of God. Those who live in the world are driven by their lusts. The church, however, is called to live moderately in all areas.
From 1 John 2:15-17, we see that everything we lust after can be put into one of three categories:
The lust of the flesh
The lust of the eyes
The pride of life
The things people lust after are too numerous to count. Here are a few areas in each category:
LUST OF THE FLESH
FOOD
Food addiction plagues our society. Most of us live on the SAD (Standard American Diet) of three huge carb-laden meals, mostly fast food, three snacks in between, and a continuous flow of liquid sugar drinks in every twenty-four hour period.
One thing that makes getting our food cravings under control so difficult is the fact that we have to eat. A person who is addicted to nicotine can stop smoking cold turkey. The same can be said for alcohol or drug addiction. That’s not to say it isn’t extremely difficult, and often takes a neutral party to facilitate the detox process. Still, it can be done. Our appetite for food, however, must be personally managed and modified throughout our lives.
God created our bodies to require food, and so we must eat. It’s up to us, however, to learn what our bodies need to be healthy, and choose to consume only that most of the time. Fasting is the tool that God has given us to keep our lust for food under control.
SEXUAL RELATIONS
Having an intimate relationship with our spouse is a holy act. It was created by God. Sexual relationships outside of marriage are sin. Unfortunately, flesh that is not kept under subjection to the Holy Ghost only wants more. It is up to us, to learn what is acceptable in God’s eyes, and discipline ourselves to desire only that.
THRILL SEEKING
I’ve ridden a roller coaster or two, and even zip lined while on vacation. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of blood pumping fun on occasion There are people, however, who live from adrenaline rush to adrenaline rush. Many times, people who can’t seem to enjoy the blessings of a normal day are those who are running from God. They will seek after anything to distract them from hearing that still small voice calling to them.
ENTERTAINMENT
Again, there’s nothing wrong with fun activities to unwind from the pressures of life. When you can’t focus on needful things without your mind drifting to the next movie, ballgame, social media post or other form of entertainment, it’s time to pull away from it all, and refocus on what’s truly important. Too much entertainment keeps you from being beneficial to your family, employer, community, church and the Kingdom of God.
SLEEP
This one might come as a surprise. We think of lust as doing something. Sometimes, however, it’s doing nothing. Don’t get me wrong…I’m an unapologetic napper. Some people, however, live only to go back to sleep, either physically or spiritually. Lethargy is a very effective tactic of the enemy. How many ministries have been forfeited for a few more hours of sleep?
“How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.” (Proverbs 6:9-11)
LUST OF THE EYES
POSSESSIONS
When the rich young ruler asked what he needed to do to be saved, Jesus told him to sell all that he had, give to the poor, and come follow him. The young man went away sorrowfully. Does that mean we are all called to sell everything, and live without? This young man was controlled by his desire for possessions and wealth. How much stuff do we really need? When your stuff keeps you from fully living for God, it’s time to let it go. Here is a great website to help you get started: becoming minimalist
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)
PHYSICAL APPEARANCE
Everyone wants to look their best, Looking your best, and obsessing over what people think are two different things. I don’t wear makeup, but I’ve heard that some ladies who do won’t go to bed without “their face” because they don’t want their spouse to see them without it…This is insane.
My husband and I ride a trike. I remember for the first year or so after we purchased it, I stressed over wearing a helmet. Everywhere we went, I had “helmet hair.” This obsession with my appearance kept me from enjoying our riding experience. The Lord convicted me of my pride, and one day I just bought some colorful beanies to pull on every time we got off the bike. Since then, I’ve added a small collection of baseball caps, as well.
The quest for a perfect body has led many people to destroy the one God gave them, as well as their peace.
PRIDE OF LIFE
POPULARITY
Everyone’s personality is different. Some people are naturally the life of the party, and others are more of a wall flower. I’m the latter. To be in the spotlight was always excruciating. This is one area where God really had a lot of work to do when He called me into the ministry. I learned that excessive shyness was a form of pride, and had to get over my “self.”
Other people not only thrive on being in the spotlight, they crave it. They would rather have followers than eat. Being popular gives them validation and affirmation that should only come from God. Be right with God, and get comfortable with who He has called you to be.
POSITIONS
Some people are driven by achieving position and power. That’s really what the pursuit of position is -the quest for power and control. God does use people, and He does place people in positions as He sees fit. If God has allowed you to be in a position of power, use it to do good, and bring Him glory. But be honest with yourself as to whether you are attempting to glorify Him, or yourself. Flesh likes to be glorified, but God deserves all of it.
Many a business person has forfeited their god-given families and ministries in order to pursue another rung on the company ladder.
SELFRELIANCE
When a two year old smacks your hand away from helping them, and screams, “I do by self,” we think it’s cute. If an adult did the same thing, we would be shocked, and frustrated. Yet, people who consistently refuse the help of the body of Christ are effectively doing the same thing. It’s as if giving in, and allowing someone to help them makes them feel inferior. This goes on in the business world, and sadly in the church. Sometimes we forget Who our source of strength is. We are called the Body of Christ for a reason. No member is more important than another, and each one needs every one.
IN SUMMARY
These are just a few areas where lust gets control in our lives. The answer is moderation taught by implementing spiritual disciplines such as fasting, prayer, bible study and giving. When a child, no matter how cute, is not disciplined, selfish manners rule, and the child becomes uncontrollable. The same thing happens with our appetites. They must be harnessed and disciplined so they don’t grow up to be big, ugly, wild lustful things.
“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” ((Philippians 4:5)
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
The amazing thing about the grace of God is that no one deserves it, yet He offers it. Since Adam and Eve first sinned in the garden, every human has been born with a sinful nature. Every single human has sinned, and deserves death as punishment. Not just physical death, but spiritual death, separated from the Spirit of God for eternity.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:23)
What Is Grace?
The gift of grace is the undeserved invitation to have faith in Jesus Christ, and the opportunity to be obedient to His gospel unto salvation. Without God’s grace, there is no way to experience salvation.
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:1-2)
What Grace Is Not
Grace is not a license to continue in sinful lifestyles. God doesn’t offer grace, and turn away from our sin. He looks at us with eyes wide open, acknowledging our sin, but with a heart of compassion that offers us a path to repent, and obey the gospel.
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” (Romans 6:1-2)
Obedience Is Required
Many people think of grace as an invisible blanket that cloaks their sins, with no obligation to make any changes. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When we claim God’s grace, we are required to follow through with obedience. This includes repentance of our sins, turning away from future sinful choices, being baptized in Jesus’ name for the remission of sins, and allowing God to fill us with His Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues, and living a life of holiness.
“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:37-38)
“But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?” (Romans 10:16)
What Are Works?
Many people think nothing is required on their part to be saved. It’s true that we are not saved by our works. Repentance, submitting to baptism and seeking to be filled with God’s Spirit are not works. They are obedience.
Christians are called to good works, even though they aren’t the source of their salvation. We are called to live as emissaries of His goodness in the earth. Volunteering, community service, and being a help whenever we can is a needful part of our new life in Christ.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.“ (Ephesians 2:10)
In Summary
-All have sinned, and deserve death.
-God, in His mercy offers us grace.
-Grace is an undeserved opportunity to have faith in, and obey the gospel.
-Obedience to the gospel is not works.
-Repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and being filled with the Holy Ghost is required for salvation.
”And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.” (Revelation 11:3)
Scripture speaks of two witnesses who will appear on the end time scene, and preach during the last three and one half years before Jesus returns. Throughout history, God has tasked men and women to preach and prophecy to the nation of Israel, warning them to turn to God with their whole hearts in order to avoid impending judgment. These two men will operate in the same fashion as prophets of old.
The Time Period
The number of days that these witnesses will preach is 1,360 days. This coincides with the final three and one half years before Jesus returns called the Great Tribulation. In the near future, there will be a 7 year covenant (peace agreement) signed which will allow for the building of the third Jewish Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Both Jews and Muslims will worship on this holy site, which can hardly be comprehended, knowing the violent history of these two groups. From the time the covenant is signed, there will be seven final years before Jesus returns.
There will be “peace” for the first three and one half years of this final seven year period. At the midpoint of these seven years, however, the two witnesses’ ministry will be launched when an event we call the abomination of desolation takes place. This event is when the antichrist will step into the newly built Jewish Temple, stop the daily animal sacrifices, and proclaim himself to be God, or the anointed one, messiah for all peoples. This event will trigger the three and one half year Great Tribulation, and God’s two witnesses will begin their final ministry of preaching to the Jewish people in Jerusalem, encouraging them to turn to God with their whole hearts, and be born again according to Acts 2:38.
What Will They Preach?
Unlike prophets of the Old Testament who didn’t live under the New Covenant, these two men will no doubt be Born Again of water and Spirit. They will preach Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, of course. They will be witnesses of the New Birth message of Jesus Christ, patterned in the Book of Acts. It is the only true salvation message of the New Testament.
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)
A Powerful Ministry
Their ministry will be power packed with signs, wonders and miracles. This is God’s final attempt to get the attention of the Jewish people, and whosoever will come to him in this last harvest. The two witnesses will have His supernatural protection until their ministry is accomplished.
“And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
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.” (Revelation 11:5-6)
Elijah, Enoch Or Moses?
Perhaps we should approach the identity of the two witnesses by talking about who they cannot be. Many people think the two witnesses will be either Elijah and Enoch, or Elijah and Moses. There are several reasons for this line of thinking.
ELIJAH?
“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.” (Malachi 4:5-6)
Since Elijah is most often mentioned as a candidate for one of the two witnesses, let’s begin with him. As you can see from the above scripture, there is good reason to suspect the fiery prophet to be one of the two witnesses, except for these two things.
1. Jesus explained to His disciples that this prophecy referred to John the Baptist, and that he had already come. The prophecy was fulfilled when John came in the spirit of Elijah. John carried the same anointing as the Old Testament prophet Elijah.
“But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.” (Matthew 17:12-13)
Jesus does precede this statement by pointing to a future time when Elijah will come. This could mean that one or both of the two witnesses will come in the spiritual anointing of Elijah just as John the Baptist did according to the precedent that had already been set.
And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.“ (Matthew 17:10-11)
2. Elijah was taken up into Heaven in a fiery chariot. People refer to this to say that Elijah never actually died, so he can come back as one of the two witnesses. I would point out that no unregenerate flesh will enter into Heaven. The only way people go to Heaven is in their new, sinless bodies. Knowing this, Elijah must have experienced the same change from mortality to immortality that we will experience at the time of the rapture. That being said, Elijah is already in his immortal body, and since the two witnesses are killed at the end of their three and one half year ministry, Elijah is removed from the candidate list.
ENOCH?
The argument for Enoch being one of the two witnesses is the same as for Elijah. He pleased God so much that God took him on to Heaven without experiencing death. Again, I would point out that even though Enoch didn’t experience death as we know it, he must have experienced the change from mortality to immortality in order to be taken into the heavenly realm. He cannot put back on mortality as if it’s a garment to be one of the two witnesses.
“And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.“ (Genesis 5:24)
MOSES?
The argument for Moses being one of the two witnesses is that when Moses died, God Himself buried him. Later, it is recorded that satan apparently wanted the body of Moses, and the archangel Gabriel withstood him.
The deceased body of this mighty prophet and deliverer was a hot commodity to both God and satan. Why would that be? God loved this man dearly. He spoke to Moses face to face as with a friend. He took care to not let his body fall into the hands of those who would misuse it. If the Israelites had his body, they would likely build a shrine and idolize it. If satan had his body, he would likely possess it to be worshipped. God made sure neither of these options were possible.
“So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord. And he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Bethpeor: but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day.” (Deuteronomy 34:5-6)
“Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.“ (Jude 9)
MOSES & ELIJAH?
The last combination I’ll mention is that of Moses & Elijah being the two witnesses. When Jesus was transformed in the presence of his disciples on the mountain, Moses and Elijah appeared with Him. The disciples noted that these two great prophets of old were conversing with Jesus, and spoke specifically of his coming death. This is so incredibly interesting.
God raised these two faithful men up for a short time, and interacted with them. As for why Moses was allowed this time with Jesus, it can be assumed that because he wasn’t allowed to go into the Promise Land during his life, Jesus allowed him stand and see it in his spirit body.
I’ll point out here that These two men were in their immortal bodies. They had both experienced the change from mortality to immortality. While God did raise them up for a short while, presumably a few minutes of conversation, they cannot die again. Therefore, they cannot be the two witnesses of the end time.
“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.” (Matthew 17:1-3)
So Who Are They???
Why is it easier to believe that God will raise someone from the dead to fulfill this ministry in the last days, rather than to believe He will use two men of God who are alive right now? Every minister is called to their own generation. The end time church is made up of One God, Apostolic, Jesus Name, Holy Ghost Filled, Tongue Talking, Holiness individuals. The two witnesses of the book of Revelation will be two of those people.
They will walk the streets of Jerusalem proclaiming the New Testament plan of salvation. Acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Messiah. Repent. Be baptized in Jesus name for the remission of your sins. Receive the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in other tongues. Turn to God with all your hearts. Live holy.
This is the message of the New Testament End Time Church. This will be the message of God’s two witnesses during those final three and one half years.
Killed, Resurrected & Raptured
And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.” (Revelation 11:7-8)
And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.“ (Revelation 11:11-12)
When they have finished their ministry, they will be killed, and will lay in the streets of Jerusalem for three and one half days. But after this, God will bring life back into their bodies, and they will be caught up into Heaven.
…This sounds familiar…
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.“ (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)
This is the Rapture, or Catching Away of the Church. The resurrection and ascension of the two witnesses is not an isolated event. They are resurrected and caught up to be with Jesus at the same time as the saints of all the ages. Now we also know the timing of the Rapture of the Church.
In Summary
The two witnesses are not ethereal spirit beings or Old Testament prophets risen from the dead. They will be born again saints in the modern New Testament Church, preaching the same message that has been preached since the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two.
Are they alive today? I’d say it’s likely.
Do they realize who they are? I’d say it’s beginning to dawn on them.
How can we help them? Begin praying for them daily even though you don’t know their names.
End Time Revival
The two witnesses’ ministry will be in Jerusalem, but there will be great harvest of souls from all around the world in the last days. The whole Church will be involved in this great revival. I pray that you are born again, sold out to Truth, and willing to be His witness during this last great push for souls before Jesus returns to set up His earthly Kingdom.
After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.
And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,
Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.
And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?
And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” Revelation 7:10-14)
We’ve all heard this phrase. It’s almost always spoken concerning sports teams. I’m personally not a big sports fan. However, my children did play sports in school, and they enjoyed the process. Although I never developed a love for sports, I did learn to appreciate seeing my kids do what they had trained for on the court. Neither of them pursued sports after graduation, and I wasn’t sad about that.
BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF A TEAM
I’ve paid attention to the many compelling arguments for being part of a team. Here are the benefits I’ve heard the most:
-Character Building.
-Boosts Confidence
-Learning To Work Together
-Teaches Leadership
-Teaches Accountability
-Promotes Working Toward a Common Goal
-Learn To Trust, and Be Trustworthy
-Finishing What You Start
-Being Part Of Something Bigger Than Yourself
THE GREATEST TEAM
“And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” (1 Corinthians 12:26-27)
These are worthy lessons, for sure, and describe exactly what the greatest team of all teaches. What is The Greatest Team? I’m glad you asked. The greatest team of all is The Church, of course!
That’s right. The majority of benefits promoted as reasons to join a sports team are actually the very ideals taught by the Church. Sadly, many quit the Church in order to pursue team sports.
BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF THE CHURCH
Let’s break down each one of the above lessons, and see how they pertain to church life.
-Character Building
And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.“ (2 Peter 1:5-8)
-Boosts Confidence
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)
-Learning To Work Together
”Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.“ (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
-Teaches Leadership
”Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12)
-Teaches Accountability
“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” (Hebrews 13:17)
-Promotes Working Toward a Common Goal
“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3)
-Learn To Trust, and Be Trustworthy
“Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)
-Finishing What You Start
”And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9)
-Being Part Of Something Bigger Than Yourself
”But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)
DON’T BE A QUITTER!
The Church of the Living God is the best thing going. Actually, it’s the only thing going…to Heaven. Sports may be entertaining, and offer a measure of benefits on this side of eternity. However, if it causes you to quit the greatest team of all time, how is it truly beneficial?
”Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25)
“For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (John 12:43)
“When thou art come into the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch. Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord: and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee.” (Deuteronomy 18:9-12)
I was shocked recently when well known influencer and podcaster, Candace Owens, declared without hesitation or embarrassment that she has participated in astral projection. This is a practice where a person allegedly leaves their physical body, and travels in spirit/astral form to other locations. She admitted to being shocked when she found out this wasn’t something other people normally did.
Mrs. Owens has a massive following, and wields influence over a vast number of individuals. When I began to think of every person who listened to this particular podcast, and how many of those people probably did an internet search on the topics she mentioned (as I did), I was extremely disturbed.
Oh, and she also claims to be a Christian…Wait, What?!
Because of her influence, how many people not only searched to find out what astral projection means, but now think there is nothing wrong with a Christian pursuing such an activity? Be assured, astral projection should not be pursued by Christians, and is one of many entrance ramps into the spirit world.
All That Glitters Is Not Gold
Just because something is spiritual, doesn’t mean it’s holy. The spiritual realm is made up of both holy and unholy spirits. God’s holy angels work to help His people, and war against evil. satan’s unholy angels (demons) work to hinder God’s people, and war against everything holy and righteous.
Without being grounded in the Word of God, a person can have a spiritual experience, and be deceived into thinking it is a holy pursuit.
Unholy activities that satan uses as entrance ramps to his occult realm are often promoted as harmless, fun, child’s play or a simple quest for knowledge. Listed below are a few activities associated with the occult.
DIVINATION (To seek hidden knowledge or know the future in supernatural ways other than by God’s Holy Spirit)
-Numerology
-Palm Readers
-Fortune Tellers
-Astrology/Horoscopes
-Tarot Cards
-Crystal Balls
-Hypnosis
WITCHCRAFT/SORCERY (Attempting to influence events or people by supernatural ways outside of God’s Holy Spirit.)
-Casting Spells On People
-Making Potions
-VooDoo Dolls
-Magic
COMMUNICATION WITH SPIRITS (Attempting to contact spirits or people who have died.)
-Ouija Boards
-Necromancy
-Mediums/Familiar spirits
-Channeling
-Seances
SATANISM (Highest level of the occult world)
-Blood Rituals & Sacrifices
-Curses
-Invoking Demons
PRACTICES USED TO FACILITATE SPIRITUAL AWAKENING (Often promoted as harmless)
-Spirit Guides/Animal Guides/Familiars
-Astral Projection
-Remote Viewing
-The Third Eye
-Automatic Writing
-The Belief In Reincarnation/Past Lives
-Aligning of Chakra
-Secret Clubs & Organizations (Fraternities & Sororities being at the forefront.
-Centers & Programs used to locate and mentor Highly Intelligent Individuals
-Institutions of Higher Learning (This is not to insinuate that young people should not attend college. They should, however, be grounded in Truth, and have a plan they are working toward so that they are not caught up in occult beliefs and practices.)
-Holidays such as Halloween
-Movies Promoting Any of These Activities
!!!WARNING!!!
The enemy of your soul doesn’t care how he gains access to, and control over, your life. He uses his fallen angels to get you interested in any one of these activities. He then reassures you over time they are apparently harmless. Once a person figures out what they’ve really gotten themselves into, they are in too deep to simply walk away without intense spiritual warfare.
If you are involved with any of these activities, please see them for what they are, repent, and turn to the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word with all your heart.
“And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good.” (Genesis 1:24-25)
The most commonly accepted version of the dinosaur story is that they existed millions of years ago, and became extinct when a massive asteroid hit the earth. This viewpoint is one of the foundational “doctrines” of the theory of evolution.
The obvious problem for Christians believing this theory is that it does not align with the creation account in the Word of God. The biblical account declares that God created the earth and everything (This would include dinosaurs.) in it in six days, and rested on the seventh.
Following the generational accounts in scripture, we also know that the earth is a young 6,000 years old. We are presently living on the brink of the beginning of the seventh thousand year period since creation, which will be the Millennial Reign of Jesus Christ.
Either God’s Word is true, or the theory of evolution is true. Both accounts cannot be true. Christians must stand on the validity of the Word of God. Thankfully, there are plenty of scriptures to confirm the Genesis account of creation
The book of Job has a chapter and a half where God Himself describes two creatures living alongside Job which seem to be perfect candidates for dinosaurs. He calls them Behemoth and Leviathan.
Behemoth
“Behold now behemoth, which I made with thee; he eateth grass as an ox.” (Job 40:15)
Behemoth was a land animal so strong and mighty that he had no worries. His tail was like a mighty cedar. His bones were like bars of iron. The mountains provided him food. He was able to drink up the river. The strength of his nose could pierce through any obstruction.
Many view this beast as an ox or a hippo, but God says in verse 15 that “he eateth grass as an ox.” This same verse declares that God made this creature with Job.
Leviathan
“Canst thou draw out leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord which thou lettest down?” (Job 41:1)
You might still come to the conclusion that Behemoth was simply very large, strong, unnamed animal. When we keep reading into chapter 41, however, God begins describing a similar creature whose characteristics simply cannot be ignored, or attributed to any known animal.
Leviathan was a sea creature who dominated the waters. The Lord begins his description of this powerful animal by asking a question that reveals what folly it would be in attempting to fish for him. Here are a few of his characteristics. You’re going to love this!
-His teeth are terrible (Job 41:14)
-His scales are his pride, and so close together and sealed up that no air can get between them, and they can’t be pulled apart. (Job 41:15-17)
Fire-breathing Dragon?
“By his neesings a light doth shine, and his eyes are like the eyelids of the morning. (Job 41:18)
The word neesings means sneezes. However, it doesn’t mean normal sneezing because the only place the word sneeze is found in the Bible is 2 Kings 4:35 when Elisha brought a boy back to life, and he “sneezed seven times. This word sneeze is not the same original word as nessings. Apparently, neesings are different than normal sneezes, and verse 18 tells us the difference. Neesing sneezes apparently are accompanied by light.
“Out of his mouth go burning lamps, and sparks of fire leap out.” (Job 41:19)
Here we see light coming from his mouth, accompanied by sparks and fire.
“Out of his nostrils goeth smoke, as out of a seething pot or caldron.” (Job 41:20)
Smoke comes out of his nose.
“His breath kindleth coals, and a flame goeth out of his mouth.” (Job 41:21)
His breath can actually set things on fire with a flame that shoots out of his mouth.
…I hope you’re as amazed by this creature as I am! Could it be that all of the “mythical” stories of fire-breathing dragons actually refer to type of dinosaurs? I think, yes.
Did Dinosaurs Even Even Exist?
Dinosaurs absolutely existed. Paleontologists and archaeologists have found many dinosaur fossils, proving their existence. The question isn’t really if they existed, but when.
It seems to be easier for people to falsely believe dinosaurs existed millions of years ago, than it is to simply believe the Word of God. Dinosaurs were created on the sixth day of creation, and lived alongside mankind.
Dinosaurs On The Ark
But wait…Wouldn’t that mean there were dinosaurs on the ark??? Yes. That’s exactly what it means.
“And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female.
Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive.” (Genesis 6:19-20)
Most people can’t wrap their minds around the fact that dinosaurs were indeed on the ark. How would there be enough room for something so big?
Please notice the use of the word KIND in the previous verses. Animals on the ark were divided by kinds. This means there weren’t two Labrador Retreivers and two Poodles on the ark. There were two of the dog kind, probably more similar to what we know as wolves. All of the other breeds came from the original kind that were on the ark.
The same can be said for dinosaurs. Only two of each dinosaur kind would have been on the ark.
Still, they were SO BIG. The animals on the ark would most likely have been in their youth. They were, after all, the foundation stock of all future animals. They would have been much smaller than full-grown counterparts.
Taking these two points into consideration, only two of each kind, and only young specimens, we’re much more able to see how dinosaurs fit on the ark right along with all the other animals.
In Summary
We need to realize the theory of evolution is just that. A theory. As Christians, we are called to believe the Word of God. God’s Word declares everything was created in six days, and this would include dinosaurs.
These magnificent creatures were not created as man-eating beasts, but lived alongside humans. They did not go extinct from a meteor crashing to the earth millions of years ago. Most dinosaurs perished in the world-wide flood, the same as every other animal and human that were not on the ark. This can be verified by vast deposits of dinosaur fossils of various kinds, gathered in one place. This is exactly what we would expect to find as remains from a world-wide flood.
Two of every dinosaur kind was on the ark, and came off the ark. When we look at modern reptiles such as alligators, crocodiles, turtles, tortoises, lizards (all of which can grow to massive sizes), we are likely seeing the smaller versions of dinosaurs. Of course, many have become extinct, as have other animal species since the flood. Many in our lifetime.
Please study the Word of God for yourself, and don’t trust in theories that don’t align with scripture even though they are pushed in modern education.
For more information on the biblical flood, visit The Ark Encounter! It is truly amazing.
It was August of 2017 in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. We were ministering at the first General Conference of the newly nationalized work. From our bird’s eye view of thegorgeous hotel overlooking the Kota Kinabalu Harbor on the China Sea, there was much to see. I was intrigued by the fishing vessels that would leave early in the morning, and return just as the sun was setting for the day.
There were many small boats that would stay close to the harbor, doing their work in shallow water. They weren’t equipped to go too far, and always kept in sight of land. They put in a hard day’s work, and probably caught enough fish to sell for the day. They were laboring to keep their families fed, but didn’t make any extra.
Then there were the ships. They were outfitted with bigger nets, and carried enough equipment and supplies to face any problems that might arise. They headed out into deep water far beyond the safety of the harbor. When they lumbered into port at the end of the day, they sat low in the water, their holds completely filled with fish. They weren’t only feeding their families for the day. They were affecting the commerce of a nation.
While watching these fishing vessels, the Lord impressed into my spirit that if I wanted to see His great works, I must choose to be like the ships, and not the boats. My first instinct was to remind Him of the obvious…I’m literally 9,000 miles away from home, overlooking the South China Sea, doing ministry. Doesn’t that make me a ship? The Lord’s silence assured me that it was going to take more than simply being willing to travel for me to be a ship, rather than a boat.
“They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.” (Psalm 107:23-24)
As I considered what the Lord was revealing to me, He dropped this scripture into my mind. Such a perfect word for the object lesson He was showing me. I began to break down the passage, and noticed that even though the ships were called to go out into great waters, they first had to go down.
We all love to spend time on the mountain top, but sea level is at a much lower elevation. Revival may come on the mountain heights, but the work gets done by first going down to sea level.
The original meaning of the word business here is ministry. Many of us are willing to go and take care of spiritual business, but not all are willing to firstgo down.
To go down means that we must submit ourselves to the Spirit of God. We must get our flesh under control. We must get our self out of the way with all of its emotions, feelings, frustrations, preferences and carnal ways.
Going down is accomplished through consistent, diligent, consecrated fasting with prayer. The mountain top is where our eyes are often focused, and our hearts most desire to be. The anointed worship. The powerful Word. The comfort of unity and fellowship. Who wouldn’t prefer the spiritual heights? After all, the way down is messy, painful and we almost always have to go alone.
I feel like I have to ask…
-How hungry are you for the things of God?
-How desperate are you for a breakthrough?
-How low are you willing to go to draw closer to God?
-How many souls do you want to reach?
…Your level of fasting and prayer will answer these questions.
It is recorded in three of the gospels, Matthew 9, Mark 2 and Luke 5, of people coming to Jesus asking why the disciples of John the baptist and the Pharisees fasted often, but his own disciples didn’t fast. He explained to them that it was difficult for them to fast while He was with them daily.
He likened himself to a bridegroom. It would be unusual, and even out of place, for a wedding party to be fasting while the bridegroom was in their midst. In the presence of the bridegroom there is joy, festivity and celebration. He let them know, however, there would be a time coming when He would go away, and then fasting would become a regular activity.
Upon closer examination, we find it was actually John’s and the Pharisees’ disciples who did the asking. This lets us know that even though Jesus was walking and ministering among them, they still weren’t absolutely sure who He was. J
John’s ministry was a transitional ministry, providing a path from keeping letter of the Law of Moses out of obligation in the Old Testament to following Jesus from the heart in the New Testament. It was a time of rapidly changing thinking processes. Apparently, John himself didn’t understand well enough to explain the different way of thinking to his disciples. He only knew to point them to Jesus.
True to His Word, after Jesus rose from the dead, and ascended into Heaven, His disciples began to remember all He had spoken and lived before them. Along with staying full of His Spirit, prayer and fasting became the foundation for staying in constant communion with Him.
They faced terrible persecution, yet revival spread all over the known world at the time. They loved not their lives unto death. Each one of the twelve were killed for their testimony of Jesus, except for John, who history tells us was boiled in oil, refused to die, and was banished to the Isle of Patmos where he received The Revelation of Jesus Christ. They all went to their deaths with faith in their hearts, and their Lord Jesus’ name on their lips. It was the infilling of the Holy Ghost, partnered with prayer and fasting, that gave them the spiritual fortitude to stand strong all the way to the end.
For the last two thousand years, this pattern remains the source of the church’s strength. Yet, in these last days, that Jesus himself compared in wickedness to the days of Noah, we have forgotten the power of fasting. We have forgotten it’s necessity. We have forgotten where our power comes from to stand against evil, and not only to not fail, but to march forward in victory. These are the days Jesus spoke of when He declared, “…then shall they fast.”
“Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not? And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.” (Matthew 9:14-15)
“And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say unto him, Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not? And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? as long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.” (Mark 2:18-20)
“And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink? And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.” (Luke 5:33-35)
