Unpacking The Fivefold Ministry

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Buddha Elemental 3D on Unsplash

”And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:” (Ephesians 4:11-12)

Within the church, there are many areas of ministry that individuals can choose to take part in according to their interests. The core framework of ministry, however, is what we refer to as the Fivefold Ministry. Each one of these five is not only a calling, but an office filled by those selected by God Himself. These offices come with much responsibility, and should also be given appropriate respect.  No one of the fivefold ministries is more important than the others. The Apostle Paul lists them in his letter to the  church at Ephesus. They are apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. Let’s unpack each one.

THE FIVEFOLD MINISTRY

1. APOSTLES OVERSEE

Jesus’ original 12 disciples became apostles after His ascension into Heaven. (Judas Iscariot was replaced by Matthias after Judas betrayed Jesus, and subsequently hung himself.) As such, they were overseers of the new Christian churches and works. An apostle may start a church in an area, but will most likely establish a local pastor over the work when it is stable enough to do so. He might travel to the churches under his oversight on a regular basis, as Paul did. In modern times, an apostle is likely to stay connected to the pastors of the churches under his covering via avenues of technology such as phone calls, text messages, emails, FaceTime or Zoom calls. When the Apostle Paul wrote to the Church in Corinth, he listed many of his trials, tribulations and hardships including “the care of all the churches.”  A true apostle thrives on seeing churches established, and the pastors and congregations under their spiritual covering working together to build the Kingdom.

“Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.” (2 Corinthians 11:28)

 

SIDE NOTE

My husband and I have traveled to Malaysia twice on missions trips. It was there that we met Pastor Clement. He pastored the local church, but had also started over 40 churches in other areas. Even though he pastored, he was also an apostle, overseeing all of these works. When my husband came to preach, he would fly all of his pastors in to attend the services. He was a true modern day apostle, and has since gone to be with the Lord. Those 40+ churches still thrive today because of his apostleship.

2. PROPHETS FORETELL

In the Old Testament prophets were often called “Seers” because God showed them information via dreams and visions. This remains true today. Just as in the Old Testament, prophets today reveal information that God has shown them to those it is intended for. This information could be to encourage, inform, redirect, confirm, prepare or warn. A true prophet thrives on knowing the people whose lives he speaks into are taking the information to heart and acting on it while seeking God’s Will in the process

”And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.” (Numbers 12:6)


SIDE NOTE

I remember 35+ years ago when my husband first began having visions. One day he asked me, “Do you see things? “ I asked, “What kind of things?” He immediately replied, “Never mind.”  He didn’t have a mentor who could instruct him in this matter, so he wrestled alone with the Lord for a few years. The Lord took him though a season of schooling where He would show him something, or reveal a bit of information, and then my husband would have to learn how to process it, and what to do with the knowledge. One day we were driving down the road. When he glanced over at the car beside us, and the Lord gave him a name. My husband followed the lady to a gas station, got out, and asked her if her name was what the Lord had given him. She affirmed that it was. He told her God loved her, and to have a nice day. In this same manner over a period of years, he learned how to trust the process, and step into the prophetic calling.

3. EVANGELISTS DECLARE

Evangelists are called to proclaim the gospel wherever they go for the purpose of seeing people born again. While this should be the focus of every minister, an evangelist will have a special anointing for this purpose. While they have a home church that they base out of, evangelists are known to travel wherever there is an open door of opportunity to preach the gospel message. Some evangelists minister predominantly within specific people groups such as children’s evangelists. A true evangelist thrives on seeing people respond to the gospel message, be born again according to Acts 2:38 and remain faithful under a pastor’s care.

”But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” (2 Timothy 4:5)

4. PASTORS SHEPHERD

A pastor is over a local assembly of believers. Not as a dictator, but as a loving shepherd watching over his flock. Other than a parent or spouse, a pastor is the next level of spiritual authority in a person’s life. It is the pastor’s responsibility to oversee the spiritual care of each person in his assembly. He or she will feed them the Word of God regularly so they may grow in knowledge. He is called to be aware of and assist in their spiritual maturity at all times, always watching for any danger that would come upon them. A true pastor thrives by seeing the members of his flock learning and applying the Word of God in their lives, showing evidence of spiritual maturity and being content in working together to bring others into the fold.

“And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.“ (Jeremiah 3:15)

“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)

5. TEACHERS INSTRUCT

Believers who are called by God to be teachers cannot get enough of His Word. They are consumed by it. A teacher will look for opportunities to explain the scriptures. A seasoned teacher has often spent time teaching all age groups. There is an unspoken respect given to preachers, but not always teachers. While both are necessary, a teacher is one of the fivefold ministries; a preacher is not. A true teacher thrives on moments when their students’ eyes light up with understanding of God’s Word.

”These things command and teach.” (1 Timothy 4:12)


PURPOSE OF THE FIVEFOLD MINISTRY

1. For The Perfecting of the Saints

Our walk with God is like a journey, and we are all at different points in our pilgrimage. The fivefold ministry is in place to assist individuals in the Body of Christ to be born again, learn, grow, mature and be firmly established as productive saints in God’s Kingdom. This process is ongoing throughout our lives.

2. For the Work of the Ministry

The fivefold ministry of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers provide the foundation, structure and guidelines for all other ministries.

3. For the Edifying of the Body of Christ

The word “edify” here means to “Build Up.” Through the fivefold ministry, God has established the means whereby individuals in the Body of Christ are continually instructed, encouraged, nurtured and guided consistently.

IN SUMMARY

Much attention and acknowledgement is given to evangelists, pastors and teachers in our modern church culture. Sadly, hardly any acknowledgement is given to modern day apostles and prophets. It is often either ignored or discouraged when ministers who fill either of these two offices actually proclaim themselves to be such. This is especially true of modern day prophets.

If it is encouraged, and even applauded, when an evangelist, pastor or teacher declares their calling to these offices, it should  be the same for an apostle or prophet. It is God who established these offices within the church, and He did so for the specific purposes listed above. Without all five of these offices functioning properly, the Body of Christ cannot be fully perfected, have effective ministries or be edified. We must begin to normalize the acceptance and promotion of ALL FIVE of the fivefold ministry…

“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:” (Ephesians 4:13)

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

8 Pitfalls To Avoid When Fasting

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments
Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash

”Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” (Isaiah 58:6)

Anyone who knows me also knows I am a huge proponent of fasting. To be more specific, I am a proponent of living a disciplined and consistent fasted lifestyle. Many of our fears and frustrations over fasting come simply because we don’t practice it enough.

Living a fasted lifestyle has become a way of life for me over the last few years. It has been, and continues to be a wonderful emotional, physical and spiritual journey for me. You read that right. Fasting is not only for spiritual health, but also benefits the whole man.

I would never want to discourage anyone from the discipline of fasting. It is our God-given tool for emotional, physical and spiritual health. However, I’ve learned from experience there are a few pitfalls to watch for on your fasting journey. Again, I’m referring specifically to a lifestyle of fasting, not simply pushing back the plate occasionally.

These are a few areas I’ve dealt with myself. Being able to look out for them is going to put you ahead in your fasting journey:

1. BECOMING DEHYDRATED

Going without food should not include going without liquid. Your body can go a looong time without food, but only a few days without water. You should be sipping water throughout the day. By the time you feel thirsty, it’s too late, you’re already dehydrated.

Much of the “hunger” you feel while fasting is often your body begging for liquid. Approximately 55%-60% of our bodies are water. Literally, every cell in your body is made up of mostly liquid.

Symptoms of dehydration range from fatigue, dizziness, headaches, confusion, UTIs, etc. These can range from mild to very severe. The solution is to stay hydrated, preferably with clean, pure water and electrolytes which help your cells hold on to the water. Sipping herbal teas are also an excellent way to keep hydrated.

“The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” (John 4:15)

 

2. BECOMING NUTRIENT DEFICIENT

I’m talking specifically about seasons of extended fasting, or living a fasted lifestyle where you are fasting one or two meals most days. In either of these situations, you must make sure that you are consuming enough, as well as, the right kind of nutrients during your eating windows. Fasting brings healing to our bodies when done correctly. Starving ourselves, or consuming only fast food/junk food in our eating windows is not fasting correctly. We are called to be good stewards over our bodies.

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

 

3. TRYING TO FORCE GOD’S HAND

Fasting is powerful. But we should always remember that fasting changes us, not God. While we may have a specific need in mind for the focus of our fast, the biggest need is to subdue our flesh so that we are in tune with what God wants to do in that situation. This allows us to find the mind of Christ in order to pray more effectively. When we get our focus on changing God instead of ourselves, it’s easy to become frustrated, angry and even offended at God for not working in the way we assumed He would. Fasting should always be practiced with the mindset of “More of Him; less of me.” John the baptist expressed it perfectly.

“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)

 

4. BECOMING PRIDEFUL

Is it possible to become prideful while you are humbling yourself in fasting? I assure you, it is. When you are on an extended fast, or have begun living a fasted lifestyle, your body will naturally experience changes. Sometimes dramatic changes. Not long into my fasting journey, people began to comment on the physical changes.

My husband and I evangelize, so we are in different churches every weekend. There’s no telling how many times I heard comments like, “Hey, Skinny-Minny!” Or “Sis, you’re looking GOOD!” Or “Wow! How much weight have you lost?!” After a while, I learned to simply answer, “Thank you. I definitely feel healthier.”

To be transparent, the comments made me feel good. I liked the way my clothes fit properly which hadn’t been the case since my teenage years. I liked being able to move freely. I liked the feeling of being in control of my self. A person can worship and chase grandkids much easier fifty pound lighter.

It takes discernment and being honest with ourselves to know where the line is that crosses over from feeling thankful and healthy to feeling prideful and sexy. If you don’t pay attention, you’ll begin to walk differently. Enter a room differently. Meet people’s eyes differently. This is yet another reason to make sure our fasting is properly yoked together with prayer.

”Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” (2 Corinthians 2:11)

 

5. BECOMING JUDGMENTAL

This is a mindset that no one wants to admit to, and it’s mostly internal. There comes a point when you begin to feel “successful” in your fasting journey. You’ve worked hard to become consistent, and you feel like you’re seeing the fruit of all your hard work. You’ve experienced some powerful moves of God. You’ve seen signs, wonders and miracles. You feel like you’ve established a direct line to the Throne. Everything you’ve studied in the Word about fasting is being manifested in your life…Then out of the blue, the thought comes to you, “If I can do it, why can’t they? Why don’t they? If they loved God and His Word like they claim, their situation would be different.”

Whoa, hold on there, Wonder Woman! You don’t know what they’re dealing with. You don’t know what’s going on inside of them. You don’t know what infirmities they wrestle with. You don’t know what the enemy is holding them hostage with. You don’t see the tears they’re crying into their pillow at night. You don’t know what their coworker or loved one did or said. You don’t know their fears, exhaustion, anxiety, depression or desperation. Perhaps you should take a pit stop instead of another victory lap, and remember where God brought you from, and how far you still need to go with Him. Oh, and while you’re at it, why don’t you set aside a season of fasting and prayer just for them?

“Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” (Matthew 7:1-2)

 

6. BECOMING INCONSISTENT

It’s so easy to become complacent after a season of intense spiritual warfare. It’s nice to just take a break. After Elijah’s notable defeat of the prophets of baal, it only took one threat from the wicked woman Jezebel to send him fleeing to hide in a cave. His moment of rest would have turned into a permanent residence if God had not sought him out, and got him back on his way again. His work wasn’t finished. He still had to anoint a few kings, and choose his own replacement, Elisha.

One week without fasting leads to two, and then a month, a quarter and a year. It’s fine to rest for a season, but there’s much more spiritual warfare to accomplish.

“In your patience possess ye your souls.” (Luke 21:19)

 

7. BREAKING YOUR FAST INCORRECTLY

This is a BIG problem! Many people are afraid of fasting because they did it once, and got sick when they ended their fast. Most of the time, this is because they ended it incorrectly. It should take an equivalent amount of time to break your fast as the time you actually fasted. If you fasted one meal, then you should eat simple, non rich foods for one meal afterward. The longer you fast, the longer it will take to regulate your body back to eating. A three day fast, is actually a six day process. (That doesn’t count the days leading up to the fast when you will want to cut back on heavy foods, sugars and caffeine.) If you end a week long fast with pizza, brownies and a soda, you will be sorry. This has led to God’s people being fearful of the fasting discipline.


“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” (Philippians 4:5)

 

8. INTENSIFYING EATING DISORDERS

Fasting correctly does not cause eating disorders. However, if someone suffers from an eating disorder, it can exacerbate the condition. If you know you have a history with eating issues, please be responsible, and speak to your doctor. Don’t attempt to use fasting to control binging or purging. Yes, fasting breaks strongholds, but we are to serve God with our minds. Make good choices. If you begin to think that you are sinning if you eat, this should be a red flag to get help. Gluttony is a sin, eating is not.

”And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.” (Ecclesiastes 3:13)

 

IN SUMMARY

Living a fasted lifestyle is the answer to emotional, physical and spiritual health. We do God’s process an injustice when we handle it incorrectly. I hope this helps you on your journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions on the topic.

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

Why Don’t I Cut My Hair…Ever?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Rana Sawalha on Unsplash

“But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.” (1 Corinthians 11:15)

You read that correctly. I don’t cut my hair. Ever. This fact is likely to be quite shocking to you if you have never been taught the biblical significance of a woman’s uncut hair. Before going any further, I want to make certain you understand that I am referring not just to wearing long hair, but uncut hair. The original Greek word here for “long hair” is Komao, which means untampered with long tresses. Or to let one’s hair grow long and unaltered. That being said, my hair hasn’t been cut in 30+ years.

IT’S ABOUT SUBMISSION

“But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.” (1 Corinthians 11:3)

How can hair length be such a big deal? 1 Corinthians chapter 11 isn’t only referring to men and women’s hair. It is referring to submission to spiritual authority. Hair length is simply the symbol of that submission level.

WHY HAIR?

In the same way God chose speaking in tongues as the initial sign of someone receiving the Holy Ghost, so He also chose Hair as the symbol of a person’s submission to authority. The simple truth is He’s God, and He gets to choose. One little known reason, however, is that cutting of the hair, and offering it as a sacrifice to idols has been practiced throughout history. This practice was especially rampant in the city of Corinth at the time of Paul’s writing to the Corinthian Church on the subject.

Neither man nor woman is more important than the other in the Kingdom of God, but God has established a spiritual order. We are expected to remain submitted to that order. A woman’s uncut hair declares that she is willingly submitted to her spiritual authority. If she is is unmarried, her first level of authority would be her father, then pastor and ultimately the Lord. If she is married, then her first level of authority is her husband.

Make no mistake. This teaching isn’t only for women. As much as a woman is instructed to leave her her long, and uncut, a man is instructed to keep his hair cut short. In this way, he declares his submission to the Lord.

APPROACHING GOD IN PRAYER

Paul tells the Corinthians that our hair dictates whether we should approach God in prayer. A man’s head shouldn’t be covered. A woman’s head should be covered. To come before God any other way is a disgrace. This is why you will see many men remove their hats during prayer. You might also see a woman with a cap or veil over her head. Although these actions are done to be respectful of God and His Word, they are done out of context.

This teaching in chapter 11 isn’t referring to a natural covering, but the length of a person’s hair. Scripture teaches us to, “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) In order to accomplish this, ladies would never be able to take off their hat or veil, and men would never be able to wear a hat. I much prefer to keep my hair uncut, and thereby be able to approach God at any moment of the day or night.

“Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.” (1 Corinthians 11:4-5)

SIDE NOTE

I’ve had people ask, “If a woman’s hair is her covering, why does she wear it put up, and not hanging down so that it covers more?” Let me reiterate the scripture is not referring to a natural covering, but a spiritual covering. Some women’s hair naturally grows longer or shorter than others. My own hair is not naturally super long, but if it is uncut, regardless of the actual length, I am covered, and living under authority. 

ANGELS ARE WATCHING

”For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.” (1 Corinthians 11:10)

The Lord takes the doctrine of a woman’s uncut hair very seriously. So seriously, in fact, that angels take notice of whether we keep it uncut. Women who understand this truth take great care to not even trim their hair, knowing that keeping their hair untampered with adds a level of protection for their loved ones. I feel absolutely certain that many trials, afflictions and dangers have been avoided because I have kept my hair uncut.

”The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.” (Psalm 34:7)

DON’T SPEAK AGAINST WHAT YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND

I realize this teaching presents in stark contrast to our cultural norm. We are perpetually surrounded by advertisements featuring new hairstyles. The pressure to conform can be overwhelming. Choosing to be a biblical Christian, however, often situates us crosswise with what the world declares is the right way.

Years ago, I was in a store with my young daughter. We were browsing the aisles when a young mother and her little girl walked past us. The little girl had long, beautiful hair, and I complimented her on how pretty it was. I was completely and utterly shocked when the lady replied in a nasty tone, “That’s what happens when you cut it.” I was so shocked by her audacity that I literally could say nothing in that moment.

This mean-spirited lady walked away feeling pretty good about herself, but in no way submitted to spiritual authority. She obviously new enough to realize we didn’t cut our hair, but doubtfully why. Let me make a few points here.

1. Hair grows from the roots, not the ends. Cutting or trimming your hair does not make it grow. It definitely makes it look fashionable, and more acceptable according to our culture. Aren’t we instructed to avoid conforming to the culture around us?

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2)

2. If you don’t understand a verse, passage, commandment or principle in scripture, it’s much better to simply acknowledge that you don’t understand. God isn’t angry at you for not understanding, although He does expect you to seek to find understanding. Saying you don’t understand is much safer than speaking against, and treading carelessly upon something God has called holy.

THE OPPOSITE OF SUBMITTED

Let me point out that the opposite of being submitted is to be in rebellion. We think of being rebellious as someone who is committing all manner of vile sins. Certainly, as Christians who love the Lord, we would not consider ourselves rebellious. When we choose to disregard a practice that God has ordained to specifically represent submissIon…Is that not rebellion?

THE GLORY COVENANT

I recently had some trouble with my thyroid which required a change in my medication dosage. This lead to a downward spiral of major hair loss. Perhaps after reading this blogpost, you can understand why such an event would cause an Apostolic lady great distress. Many ladies would have immediately cut or trimmed their hair to make it more culturally acceptable. (*Trimming is cutting in small increments.) I, however, have this Glory Covenant that I take very seriously. I desire to be in obedience to God’s Word. I desire to live submitted to spiritual authority. I desire for the angels who are always watching to take note of my submission. I consider being in this Glory Covenant with God a great privilege and joy.

“But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.“ (1 Corinthians 11:15)

IN SUMMARY

Obviously, for the sake of time and space, I can’t cover every aspect of uncut hair in this post. If you have questions, please reach out. As always, I’m more than happy to discuss any topic that I write about.

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

 

Why Can’t I Speak In Tongues?

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments
Photo by Jessica Hearn on Unsplash

“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:4)

This scripture is taken from the account of the Holy Ghost being first poured out on the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two. Since that day approximately two thousand years ago, every person who has ever received the Holy Ghost (God’s Holy Spirit) has spoken in tongues.

My husband and I travel and minister every weekend, and see people receive the Holy Ghost in this very same way almost every service. That being said, we sometimes encounter seekers who desperately want to be filled with the Spirit, but seem to come up against a wall of resistance that hinders them from pressing through to actually speaking in tongues. Their frustration often leads to the question, “Why is it so hard? Why can’t I speak in tongues?” Sometimes the question is verbalized, and other times I can see it on their face even though it’s not spoken.

First, let me assure you that God chose speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of receiving His Spirit. He wants to fill you with this precious gift, and He didn’t choose something that was unachievable.

Biblically, our new birth experience is compared to a baby’s natural birth. We can easily see that a baby doesn’t have to be taught how to cry. It is actually the most natural thing a baby does. They cry. A lot. Similarly, crying out to our Heavenly Father in tongues should be the most (super) natural thing we do.

Then why is it so hard?

Imagine yourself back in Bible times when the Holy Ghost was first poured out. It was a brand new experience, and no one was being taught how to do it. No one had mountains of negative information and opinions to overcome. They simply prayed sincerely and fervently until His Spirit began moving on them and through them. When that happened, they gave themselves wholeheartedly and unashamedly to worshiping Him. They didn’t close their mouths in embarrassment, or look around to see who was witnessing their most intimate moment with God.

On the contrary, they were caught up in the experience, and reached for Him even more. They worshipped Him louder and louder until they were speaking words they didn’t understand. And they didn’t care what it sounded like, or who was listening. All they cared about was drawing closer to Him, and being completely saturated with His Presence. The experience is still the same these two thousand years later.

MY HOLY GHOST TESTIMONY

Perhaps if I share my own experience of receiving the Holy Ghost, it will help you along on your journey. I didn’t receive the Holy Ghost right away after learning the Plan of  Salvation (Acts 2:38). As a matter of fact, I sought to be filled for five long years. I would go to the altar and pray desperately. Many people prayed with me through the years. However, speaking in tongues evaded me, and my frustration and desperation only grew.

My husband and I were living in Alabama at the time. We had traveled home to Tennessee for the weekend, and were attending service at the church he had grown up in. I remember as the pastor preached, feeling God’s Spirit begin to tug at my heart. I was desperate to be filled with the Holy Ghost, but what was going to make this time different than all the others?

In that moment, it occurred to me that I was hearing words in tongues, spoken in my own voice, inside my head. As a matter of fact, I realized this was normally what happened when I was praying to be filled. I heard the tongues in my head, but never spoke it out. I assumed that was just me, and if it was God, He would take control, and force the words out of my mouth. I was so weary of the terribly frustrating cycle I was in of seeking and being disappointed again and again. Five years worth.

I began to wonder what would happen if I simply spoke the words out. Would that be seen by God as a lack of faith in His ability to change my language? Would it be me or Him? Could it really be that simple? I decided in that moment to find out. I stepped out into the aisle, raised my hands, and began to speak out the words in tongues that had been echoing in my head for five long years. The most beautiful and powerful thing happened as a result. God met me there. The moment I was obedient, and spoke out what He had already given me, I felt the inrushing of His Spirit as He filled me to overflowing.

Five years of struggle was over once I got my intellect out of the way, and used my own mouth and tongue to speak in that heavenly language. You might think, Well then anybody can speak in tongues any time they choose. It must not be such a spiritual thing after all. To that I would say, a person can make up words, and call it speaking in tongues, but if it’s truly the Holy Ghost, there will be an unction of the Spirit behind it, and He will flow in like a rushing mighty river of spiritual water.

SIDE NOTE

After this initial experience, I never struggled again to speak in tongues fluently. It’s my belief that many people cannot speak fluently in tongues even though they have “stammering lips” as well as uncontrollable shaking because they refuse to speak aloud the heavenly language they are hearing internally. People have actually commented to me over the years on how effortlessly I speak in tongues. I think that is a direct result of learning how to flow in the Spirit, compared to resisting until God “shakes it out of me.”

My experience of seeking the Holy Ghost may be different than yours. I can tell you that I have whispered this story into people’s ears around the altar who have been seeking the Holy Ghost for long periods of time. It has helped several to move forward in faith, speaking out the tongues they have been hearing, and receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost.

There are other reasons why a person might be seeking the Holy Ghost over a long time period without success. One reason can be a lack of repentance. If a person is harboring sin that they haven’t asked forgiveness for, or refuse to turn away from, they will not receive the Holy Ghost. Some people refuse to follow the steps in the plan of salvation. They want the Holy Ghost, but they won’t truly repent or be baptized in Jesus name. Another reason that I see quite often is a very shy person who won’t worship the Lord out loud. Likewise, some people care more what their friends, family or the people around them will think if they give themselves over to the Spirit. Each of us must come to the place that nothing else matters but being saturated in His Spirit in order to receive the Holy Ghost.

IN SUMMARY

If you are seeking the baptism of the Holy Ghost, God desires this experience for you. It’s part of the New Birth, and nothing is more important than being born again according to Acts 2:38. Don’t give up! It’s for you!

“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)

Warm Regards,

-Pat

7 Trumpets of Revelation

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments
Chernobyl Memorial. Monument of the Third Angel
-Photo Credit: Darmon Richter

Where are we right now in endtime prophetic events? Most people believe everything after Revelation chapter 3 is still in the future. The truth is, we are presently living much further down the line of endtime events than people think, or want to admit. Let’s look at the seven trumpets to find out where we are, and what we can expect in the near future.


7 TRUMPETS

We are going to begin by identifying the Third Trumpet. This is the first trumpet of the seven that God revealed to the late Rev. Irvin Baxter of Endtime Ministries.

3rd TRUMPET: Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster 1986

“And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; and the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.” (Revelation 8:10-11)

The key to understanding the third trumpet is the word wormwood. The Ukrainian word for wormwood is Chernobyl. If you were reading a Ukrainian Bible, you would actually read the word Chernobyl instead of Wormwood.

In 1986, the world‘s worst nuclear disaster happened in Chernobyl Ukraine. The nuclear reactor exploded, and the massive dome was thrown into the sky, and feel like a burning star. The nuclear fallout caused poison rain, which in turn poison, the waters. Approximately 1000 mi.² across Europe was contaminated and deemed unlivable. Thousands of people died, and countless birth defects are still being reported almost 40 years later.

Picture above is one of several Chernobyl memorials called Monument of the Third Angel, a direct reference to the third trumpet in Revelation 8.

Now, knowing we are looking for world events, and also knowing the identity of the third trumpet being the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, we must look back further than this point in history to identify trumpets one and two. They will obviously be major world events…

1st TRUMPET: World War l (1914-1918)

“The first Angel sounded, and they followed hail and fire, mingled with blood, and they were casted up upon the Earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.” (Revelation 8:7)

Retreating forces, especially Russia, implemented the “Scorched Earth Policy.” They would purposely destroy all resources that might be useful to their enemies. This would include, but was not limited to, burning all crops and vegetation, leaving the land completely wasted. *World War I was also the first time biological weapons were used.

2nd TRUMPET: World War ll (1939-1945)

“And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; and the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.” (Revelation 8:8-9)

The first nuclear bomb was dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in World War II. If you look at images of this explosion, you will agree that to John, it would have absolutely looked like a mountain burning with fire. The nuclear fallout wreaked devastation to the sea life.

The scripture also very accurately declares one third of all ships in the war would be destroyed. History records 36,387 of 105,125 ships in WWll were destroyed.

4th TRUMPET: Length of Days Shortened (1989-)

“And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.” (Revelation 8:12)

”And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” (Matthew 24:22)

The Berlin Wall came down in 1989. This event marked the birth of the New World Order, and initiated the major push toward a One World Government. Since this time, our days have actually gotten shorter. Remember how days seemed to go on forever? Gone are the “dog days of summer.” Not just because we’re getting older, but the length of each day has actually been cut by one third. *We know this prophecy cannot be referring to the number of days because of scriptures giving us an exact number of days from the Abomination of Desolation to the coming of the Lord.

”And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.” (Daniel 12:11)

I remember thinking about this prophecy, and wondering how people wouldn’t notice if each day was shortened by one-third. The thought came to me that if the whole universe was sped up at the same time, most people wouldn’t notice for the most part, except to feel like they didn’t have nearly enough time to get their work done in a day, and not enough time to sleep and be refreshed at night. Turns out that’s exactly how we all feel.

Even though this shortening of days seems to make our lives feel overwhelming at present, there’s coming a time during the tribulation period when we’ll be so thankful the days don’t go on and on. According to Matthew 24, this shortening of days is for the Church’s sake.

5th TRUMPET: Gulf War (1990-1991)

“And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.“ (Revelation 9:1-3)

Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in 1990. He set 700 oil wells ablaze. The sky was darkened for approximately ten months from the smoke. Several months of that time it was so dark, the sun could not be seen in the middle of the day.

“And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men. And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of lions. And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle.“ (Revelation 9:7-9)

The military aircraft John would have seen in this vision would have looked to him like great metallic locusts “stinging” people with their tails. He would have seen the pilots faces and heard the rotors beating the air like thundering horses. Helicopters are often painted with fierce faces on the front, as well.

“And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.“ (Revelation 9:11)

The Hebrew word “Abaddon” and the Greek word “Apollyon” both mean DESTROYER. By no coincidence, the name “Saddam” also means DESTROYER.

6th TRUMPET: World War lll (?)

“And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates. And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them.” (Revelation 9:13-16)

World War lll, also called the Sixth Trumpet War, is the next event on the timeline of endtime events. This war will emanate from the Euphrates River region. There are four nations that border the Euphrates -Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran. Shockingly, the prophecy declares that one-third of humanity will be destroyed in this war. Over 2 billion people. It will no doubt be a series of nuclear exchanges for this number of people to be killed. Although we need to be in sincere prayer in this endtime, this event is unavoidable. It is set on God’s prophetic calendar, and will happen in the near future.

7th TRUMPET: The Return of Jesus Christ (The Near Future)

“And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.”

We are the generation who will most likely see the return of Jesus to set up his earthly Kingdom. This series of events will include the wrath of God being poured out, the Rapture of the Church, the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, our return with Jesus to the Battle of Armageddon to put an end to all human government, and established Him as King of all.

IN SUMMARY

Did you take note of the timeline? We are presently living between the 5th and 6th trumpets. Five of seven are behind us! Knowing that we are so far along the timeline of endtime events should cause us to live closer to the Lord than ever before. We should pray like we’ve never prayed before. We should fast like we’ve never fasted before. We should witness like we’ve never witnessed before. We should use our callings and giftings to help a lost world. That ministry you’ve been planning on pursuing…Now’s the time. It’s time to get serious about the things of God.

Warm Regards,

-Pat

Should I Speak In Tongues With No Interpreter?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Paul Bulai on Unsplash

People have been speaking in tongues since the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter 2. That’s approximately 2,000 years. It’s astonishing that after all of this time, there remains so much confusion about the subject. One of the most widespread bits of misinformation is the belief that a person should never speak in tongues if there is no interpreter.

”Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.” (1 Corinthians 14:13)

Sounds pretty straight forward, right? The problem is created from taking the scripture out of context. There are multiple reasons for speaking in tongues. In 1 Corinthians chapter 14, Paul is addressing speaking in tongues as one of the Gifts of the Spirit.

Apparently, the Corinthian Church was made up of people who  dealt with the same issues as we do today. Because of that, we have a smorgasbord of instructions to choose from where Paul addresses proper protocols. In chapter 12, he  explains each of the Gifts of the Spirit, and how they should properly function in a church service. In chapter 13, he assures the Corinthians that every operation of the Gifts should be undergirded with love. And then in chapter 14, he speaks about handling the Gifts of the Spirit in a church service in an orderly manner so that everyone in the congregation, as well as visitors, will be edified, and not confused.

Paul focused a lot of attention in his writings to the Corinthian church on issues they were having when they came together for services. That being said, these instructions are focused primarily on the use of the Gifts of the Spirit in a church service.

The congregation was gathering together without any order in place. Everyone was taking their liberty in singing, preaching, praying, prophecying, giving messages in tongues, etc. Their services were complete chaos. Everything was happening at once. Everyone was confused, and no one was being instructed or edified. In modern language, we would say it was a “free for all.”

”How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.” (1 Corinthians 14:26)


TONGUES & INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES

Divers Kinds of Tongues and the Interpretation of Tongues are two of the nine Gifts of the Spirit. These two gifts work together. A person who has the Gift of Tongues will feel impressed by the Spirit to speak a message out loud in tongues. After which, either that same person, or someone else in the congregation, will follow by giving the interpretation to the message in a language the congregation understands. A person may have only the Gift of Tongues, or both the Gift of Tongues, as well as the Gift of Interpretation of Tongues.

SIDE NOTE

I’m very familiar with these two Gifts of the Spirit because I have personally operated in them. Interestingly, my husband operates in the other seven. Years ago, we were sitting at our dining room table, talking with a spiritual mentor about the Gifts of the Spirit. He asked me if I could choose, which of the Gifts would I want. I immediately replied, Tongues & Interpretation of Tongues. He asked, “Why?” I replied, “Because the thought of being able to speak a fresh word to the congregation straight from the heart of God for that moment would be so wonderful.” He looked me in the eyes and said matter of factly, “It’s yours.” 

So, yes, Paul did say when you are in a church service, and you feel the unction of the Spirit to give a message in tongues to the congregation, you should pray to receive the interpretation as well. Because if a message in tongues goes forth, and there is no one to give the interpretation, that causes confusion for everyone present, and no one is benefited. However, this is only one purpose for speaking in tongues.

I encourage you to READ 1 Corinthians 14 HERE.

PURPOSES FOR SPEAKING IN TONGUES

You need to know there are multiple purposes for speaking in tongues. The scenario above is only one. Let’s unpack a few.

1. Initial Sign of Receiving The Holy Ghost

A person will speak in tongues as the initial evidence of having received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. (Not to be confused with one of the nine Gifts of the Spirit) Speaking in tongues for this purpose is actually the most important, and must be experienced before the other purposes are possible.

Speaking in tongues is part of the New Birth, or biblical Plan of Salvation. Jesus told Nicodemus in order to enter the Kingdom of God (be saved), a person must be born of the Water and Spirit. Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues is being born of the Spirit.

“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.“ (John 3:5)

The Holy Ghost was first poured out on the Day of Pentecost in the book of Acts. Since that day, everyone who has ever been born of the Spirit, has spoken in tongues. The pattern was set in the book of Acts, and continues today.

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4)

We see this commanded by Peter later in the chapter.

“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)


2. Giving a Message In Tongues

We’ve previously covered this purpose for Tongues. It is one of the nine Gifts of the Spirit for the purpose of giving a message in tongues, usually in a gathering such as a church service. It should be followed by an Interpretation of Tongues, given either by the same person, or someone else. The message in tongues is allowed to go forth two or three times, but if no interpretation comes forth, the person(s) giving the message in tongues should stop speaking out forcefully for the whole congregation to hear, and simply worship God in a more personal way. If the message in tongues is not followed by an interpretation, it causes confusion, and is not beneficial. *There have also been accounts where a person will give a message in tongues, and someone in the congregation who speaks a different language is able to understand the message in their language.

“If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.“ 1 Corinthians 14:27-28)

SIDE NOTE

You may be asking why there would be no interpretation to a message in tongues. 1. The person who should be giving the interpretation is not being sensitive to the Spirit. 2. They are learning how to operate in the gift, and are unsure, or too nervous to speak it forth. 3. The person who gave the message in tongues mistook it as a message when, in fact, it was simply an overflow of worship. In any of these situations, the remedy is the same. There is no interpretation forthcoming, therefore it’s best to be silent, and continue worshiping between yourself, and God so as not to draw any more attention. 


3. Praying In The Spirit/Intercession 

There are times to pray in our own language, speaking very specifically to the Lord about our needs and concerns. There are other times when we simply don’t know what else to pray, or the need is so great that we are overcome by our own inadequacy to pray as needed. At times, the Spirit of Intercession will come upon us so strongly that we will drop into a deeper place of prayer. In all of these situations, we begin to pray in tongues, or pray “in the Spirit.” When this happens, we are allowing the Holy Ghost to pray for us because we don’t know what or how to pray for the situation properly.

”Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” (Romans 8:26-27)

4. Worship

Once you have received the Holy Ghost, then you are able to worship on a deeper level. Whether it’s in a church worship service, or in your own personal prayer time, you may begin to speak lovingly and reverently in tongues as you pour accolades of praise out to the Lord. Singing in tongues is another way of lavishing Him with your deepest worship.

“What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” (1 Corinthians 14:15)

IN SUMMARY

So, the answer to the question of whether you should speak in tongues if there’s no interpreter depends on your purpose for doing so. If you are giving a message in tongues, then you should only speak that message two or three times without an interpreter. If no interpretation is forthcoming, then you should pray or worship in tongues more quietly so as to not cause confusion in the congregation.

However, if you are not giving a message in tongues, there is no need for an interpreter. You may proceed speaking in tongues to your heart’s content.

If you have never received the Holy Ghost with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues, you should most certainly seek to do so as it is part of the New Birth.

If you have previously received the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in tongues, then you have access to speak, pray, intercede, sing, praise and worship the Lord in tongues freely.

SIDE NOTE

If you speak in tongues in any of these ways, then you have, at some time, already received the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and are born of the Spirit. I pray you will take the steps to fulfill the complete Plan of Salvation/New Birth. -> Repent -> Be baptized in Jesus name -> Receive Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

How To Pray For Your Pastor’s Wife

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Shubham Dhage on Unsplash


”…God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you:…” (1 Samuel 12:23)

Having previously been a pastor’s wife for 25 years, I speak from experience when I say this role is one of the most emotionally weighted positions of service. That’s not to say it’s not fulfilling or rewarding, but it is uniquely stressful in areas you may not realize. *If all jobs were rated by percentage of difficulty, being a pastor’s wife ranks in the 75%-85% range. (ChatGPT)

10 WAYS TO COVER YOUR FIRST LADY IN PRAYER

~Her Relationship With God~

Just like you, your pastor’s wife requires a close relationship with the Lord. Also like your relationship with God, it doesn’t happen automatically. It takes intentional planning and consistent focus. In order to effectively minister to those in the congregation who look to her for wisdom, comfort and nurturing, she must keep her relationship with God as her primary focus. This isn’t always easy when she is being pulled in many different directions at once.

-Pray she is able to make time for personal Bible reading, prayer and devotion time with the Lord early in the day, and consistently.

-Pray she hears the Voice of God often.

-Pray she is able to find the mind of Christ for each day.

-Pray she is able to release all her cares to the Lord.

~Her Relationship With Her Husband~

Your pastor’s wife’s first priority after her relationship with God is to her husband. The results of a strong and intimate relationship with her husband will spill over into every other area of her life, and will be a blessing to those around her.

-Pray she and her husband have consistent personal time for just the two of them.

-Pray she and her husband have open and consistent communication.

-Pray she and her husband are able to work through differences of opinion in a constructive and godly manner.

-Pray she and her husband are able to spend time, not only together, but also enjoying the hobbies they enjoy separately.

-Pray she and her husband are able to agree and commit to emotional, physical and spiritual boundaries that will benefit their relationship, as well as their family.

~Her Children & Grandchildren~

If your pastor’s wife has children living at home, she has all of the responsibilities for their care as you do for your children. The younger her children are, the more time, focus, energy they require of her. There will be times when she simply cannot be everything to everyone, because the needs of her children must come first.

Also, children raised in a pastor’s home have areas of difficulty that other children may not have. They have feelings of needing to be “perfect” at all times because they are “the pastor’s kids.” They deal with sharing their parents with everyone else in the congregation. They deal with family plans that have to be rescheduled, or simply don’t work out due to unexpected things that come up in the congregation.

-Pray for her energy level as she cares for her family.

-Pray for her children’s physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

-Pray for their time at school, and their friendships.

-Pray they have close sibling relationships.

-Pray they develop a personal relationship with Jesus early in life.

~Her Relationship With Members Of The Congregation~

Your pastor’s wife has the challenging task of being everyone’s friend equally, while building personal relationships individually.

-Pray she can build personal relationships that are sincere, but do not isolate any individuals in the congregation.

~Her Emotional Well-being~

Being a pastor’s wife requires thick skin, and a soft heart. She wasn’t elected to this role, yet her presence is invaluable. She must be both vulnerable, and unwaveringly strong. Her life is a paradox of strength and gentleness.

-Pray for her to be well balanced emotionally, able to focus on what’s most important at the time.

-Pray she is able to let harsh words or criticism fall to the wayside quickly.

-Pray she is not easily offended.

-Pray for her the gift of laughter.

~Her Home Life~

Even though it looks like your pastor’s wife is always at church, ready to take on the next service, class, outreach project or potluck, she actually has a home life. She loves you, and she loves serving, but she needs a home life where she can relax, unwind, regroup, refresh and breathe a minute.

-Pray the atmosphere of her home is comfortable and peaceful.

-Pray that people respect her time at home with her family.

-Pray for the peace of the Holy Ghost to saturate her family members, and every minute of every day.

~Her Giftings & Callings~

Every pastor’s wife is different, just as you are different from your siblings, cousins or neighbors. They have many of the same responsibilities, but they have different personalities and giftings to accomplish them with. Don’t expect your pastor’s wife to handle a situation in the same way a neighboring pastor’s wife would, or like  your childhood pastor’s wife did, or even like you would if you were in her place. The First Lady of your church might be a natural speaker, singer or organizer…or she might not, and that’s okay.

-Pray for your pastor’s wife to acknowledge, embrace and utilize her own giftings.

-Pray your pastor’s wife doesn’t feel pressured to be like anyone else.

-Pray your pastor’s wife finds clarity for ministries God is calling her to do that may not be traditionally expected of a pastor’s wife.

~Her Work~

Many, if not most, pastor’s wives must work a secular job in addition to their responsibilities to the church and congregation. This not only adds responsibilities, but often an added level of stress. Her job may be a well planned career that she went to college for, or it may simply be a job that helps with the family’s finances.

-Pray she finds the job God has planned for her.

-Pray she has the skills to do her job effectively.

-Pray she can be an effective witness to her coworkers.

-Pray she finds favor with her boss and coworkers.

-Pray the work she does is personally fulfilling.

-Pray she is blessed financially for her labor.

~Her Time Management~

Time for a pastor’s wife is counted by seconds, minutes, hours, days and blocks on a calendar. Most every moment is already spoken for, and must be managed. Free time is a rare commodity, and must also be scheduled.

-Pray she is able to manage her time and family’s schedule properly, and schedule some each week just for herself.

BONUS MATERIAL

I had already invested a few hours into this post when the thought came to me, “Maybe I should actually ask some pastors’ wives what areas they would like prayer for?” I messaged twenty pastors’ wives who I know personally, and asked them this simple question:

”As a pastor’s wife, what are the top three things that you would like your congregation to pray for you?”

By overwhelming majority, the top three prayer requests were:

1. Wisdom

2. Children/Family

3. Peace

The following requests were also mentioned, and most of them more than once:

-Compassion For People

-Health & Strength For Service

-Patience

-Sensitivity to the Leading of the Lord

-To Be Teachable

-To Be Able To Forgive Offenses (To Have The Gift of Memory Loss -LOL)

-Confidence

-Rest

-To Be Willing (This one broke me because it was preceded by, “I’ve never considered myself worthy to ask for specific prayers!”)

Well, there you have it. A glimpse into the hearts of pastors’ wives. I find it humbling that even when asked what they wanted prayer for, the answers were never really about themselves. Rather, they always focused on how they could be better equipped to serve others.

Hopefully, this list of prayer suggestions and requests will help you to pray more often, and more specifically, for your First Lady. Keep her in your heart, and in your prayers. You certainly are in hers.

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

*Don’t forget to leave a comment, and let me know your thoughts!

10 Ways To Be More Content In Your Christian Walk

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Gary Fultz on Unsplash

Many people think when they make the decision to give their lives to Jesus, all of their frustrations will immediately go away. Granted, some do. But if you’ve lived for the Lord very long, you realize life struggles are no respecter of persons. If you’re wrestling with a lack of contentment, here are ten areas to check.

1. GET INTO THE WORD OF GOD DAILY.

God’s Word is the first and best way that we know Him. The answer to any of life’s circumstances can be answered in the scriptures -either by commandment, by example or in principle. Much of the time, our anxiety and discontentment comes from not knowing the Word of God.

“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” (Psalm 119:11)

2. PRAY EARLY, OFTEN AND IN THE HOLY GHOST.

The Lord never sleeps, but neither does the enemy of our souls. The earlier we begin our communication with our Heavenly Father, the more peace and contentment we’ll have throughout the day. We should bathe every moment of every day with prayer. There certainly are times that we need to be on our knees, pulling away from all distraction to seek His face. However, we should also develop the discipline of staying in communication with Him throughout our days. The more we involve Him in our daily thoughts, decisions and activities, the more content we will be.

“Pray without ceasing.“ (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Let’s face it. Sometimes we are so overwhelmed, we run out of words. The needs are too great. The emotions are too big. The issues are too complicated. It’s in those times that we lean into the Spirit of God, and allow Him to intercede for us. As we pray in tongues, the Holy Ghost goes to that lost loved one, heals that grand baby, protects the traveler, softens hardened hearts and delivers the bound.

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” (Romans 8:26)

3. DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS.

While we are all part of the Body of Christ, we are individuals with our own personalities, giftings and callings. God never intended to have a Church full of clones. When He called you into His service, He had already factored in all your quirks, preferences and nuances that make you uniquely you.

“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.“ (2 Corinthians 10:12)

4.  SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE.

“Sometimes more isn’t better. It’s just more.” -Sabrina

This is one of my favorite quotes. It’s not scripture, but the principle definitely is. Things might bring happiness for a season, but not joy. We should begin systematically examining every area of our lives, and simplifying. That will look different for everyone. Most of us have far too much stuff, have far too busy of schedules, eat far too much in excess and our closets are packed way too full. It’s all just too much, and flesh always wants more.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” (1;Timothy 6:6-8)

I’m a wannabe minimalist. BECOMING MINIMALIST.COM is a great website to learn about the minimalist lifestyle!

5. DON’T OVER COMMIT.

This sounds much easier than it actually is. (I hear you snickering.) Still, our calendars are packed so full. Every minute of every day must be accounted for, especially if you’re in the ministry. We need to schedule downtime. I know that might sound ridiculous, but that’s probably the only way we’ll get the time. No matter how much pressure is applied to perform, we can only do so much well. When we spread ourselves too thin, then nothing gets done well. I’m not suggesting that you not fulfill your obligations. We only have this one life, and we need to use it working for the Kingdom. I am suggesting, however, that we set reasonable goals, and agree to reasonable levels of commitment.

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.” (Luke 14:28-30)

6. LIMIT NEWS & SOCIAL MEDIA.

Let’s face it. Neither the news, nor social media are reality. Most of the news we watch or listen to is biased, and slanted toward whatever group think the powers that be want us to believe. It’s best to find a non-biased news source, take a look once a day (or less) and leave the rest alone. The more news you ingest, the more depressed and anxious you are likely to be. Yes. Stay updated on world events, and commit yourself to prayer. You can’t help or change any of it in any other way.

On the other end of the emotional spectrum is social media. Here, we ingest just as much fake news as the actual news broadcasts. But it paints such a flowery, overly perfect compilation of people’s lives that we end up feeling like ours isn’t good enough. We need to remember the highlights we see on social media are only glimpses into people’s lives, and they rarely show the hard, painful and messy parts.

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

7. GET OUTSIDE REGULARLY, AND GET MOVING.

God created Adam and Eve, and placed them in a garden. That was our beginning. He could have created a high rise office building full of computer screens for us to thrive in, but He didn’t. Outside with the sun on our face, the ground under our feet and our hands full of earth, plants and animals. This is where we feel most alive. Our bodies weren’t designed to sit staring at a screen day after day. They were meant to move. I’m not talking about getting a gym membership. Just get your body moving, even if it’s a walk around the neighborhood or weeding the flower bed.

8. EAT HEALTHY MOST OF THE TIME.

Remember the saying we heard over and over as a child, You are what you eat? Turns out it’s true. Health begins in the gut. We live in a culture that glorifies gluttony, and we’re inundated with advertisements pushing all manner of unhealthy foods. In order to be content in our minds, we first half to be content in our bodies. I’m not talking about getting sexy. Im talking about getting healthy. Learn to live a fasted lifestyle in a healthy manner. Then eat responsibly during your eating windows. We must take care of our bodies. Not only are they the conduits we use to move the Gospel, they are also the temples of the Holy Ghost. God expects us to keep them in good repair.

”Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)

9. PRACTICE BEING THANKFUL.

One of the best ways I know to be content is to practice thanking God for what He has given us, and done for us. When we intentionally focus our minds on the goodness of God, everything we have becomes more valuable. My cabinets may not be packed full, but I have food to cook for supper today. Thank you, Lord, for this meal. You sustain me. I may not drive the sports car of my dreams, but I have a dependable car to get me to work. Thank you, Lord, for my dependable car. You provide for me. Keeping a Thankfulness Journal is a great way to practice this habit. List at least three things before going to sleep at night that you’re thankful for. Before long, your mind will begin to search out things to be thankful for, and you will find yourself much more content with what you have, as well as your circumstances.

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

10. ENCOURAGE OTHERS.

Do you feel discouraged? Sad? Frustrated? Hopeless? That’s exactly where the enemy of your soul wants you. When I find myself in this mental place, I’ve learned the best way to get through it is to reach out to someone else. There’s something about ministering to others that brings healing and hope to our own hearts. Send the text. Write the letter. Make the call. Schedule the visit. Pray the prayer. Cook the meal. Even when you don’t feel like it. Be intentional.

IN CLOSING
This is a tried and true list from personal experience. I pray you find a place of contentment in your walk with God as you implement each one.

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

Are You A Believer?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Andy Montes de Oca on Unsplash

Who or what do you believe in? I mean truly believe in? The world has many belief systems. Believing in self is a popular one. We’re told over and over that if we simply believe in ourselves, anything is possible. Never mind checking to see how God feels about it. Just put your mind to it, believe in yourself, and go for it.

Many people raise their children to believe in mythical figures like the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy or the BIG one, Santa Claus. It breaks my heart. You might ask with shock, So your kids never believed in Santa??? Nope. It’s a lie, and I chose to teach them to believe God’s Word.

“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.“ (James 1:17)

So, back to my question. Who or what do you believe in? I’ve been reading about Abram. Before he became Abraham, he was called by God to leave his family and home on nothing but a promise.

“Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” (Genesis 12:1-3)

How did Abram respond? Genesis 12:4 gives us the answer.  “So Abram departed…” 

This is how we know he believed God. He responded with action.

When Abram questioned God concerning how the promise would come to pass because, as of yet, he had no children, God reassured him once again that his descendants would be as the stars in the heavens if they could be numbered.  I love what is recorded about Abram after this.

”And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” (Genesis 15:6)

We know that both God and Abram followed through with action because there is a NATION of Israel today.

So, once again back to my question.Who or what do you believe in? I hope your belief system is founded on God’s Word. Many say they believe, but put no action behind their so-called belief.

If a person is a believer in God’s Word, there will be signs. Those signs will most definitely include more than words only. The old saying is “Talk is cheap,” and this is true. It’s easy to wear the t-shirt or sport the What Would Jesus Do bumper sticker. But the truth is revealed by our actions.

If we truly believe in God’s Word, we’ll make life changes accordingly. People will see and feel a distinct difference. Our actions will undoubtedly speak louder than our words.

SELF ANALYSIS

Let’s take a deep and honest look into ourselves. Is God calling us to do make a course correction in our lives? Are we saying we’re a believer, but refusing to obey? What are we holding out on God? Abram followed through, and because of this, he was called righteous, is known as the Father of the faithful and is listed in the Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith.

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” (Hebrews 11:8-10)

Are you a Believer? Be a Believer like Abram. (Abraham)

Warm Regards,

-Pat-

Great Hope In The Face Of Great Loss

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Pat Vick

THE LOSS

I lost a dear friend this week. I visited with her two months before she passed. We spoke of family, church and the goodness of God. I told her of our upcoming trips. She was so interested in everything we were doing. All the places we were going. She wanted to know whose churches we were ministering in. Did we have any upcoming mission trips? I told her numerous times how much I loved and treasured her. We held each other’s gaze, saying all the unsaid things with our eyes. Each of us wondering silently whether this would be our last visit.

That evening, I conveyed to my husband how fragile she was, and wondered if I would get to see her again on this side of eternity. That was the final time I saw her. I won’t be able to attend her memorial service because we’ll be on the mission trip to Trinidad that I had spoken with her about.

I’ve lost many people in my life. Some were Born Again and living a sanctified life close to the Lord. I had every reason to believe I will see them again in the presence of the Lord and His saints. Others were not Born Again, and were living a life in rebellion to God’s Word. Or they were Born Again, but in a backslidden state, refusing to humble themselves in repentance. I had no reason to believe I will see them again in the presence of the Lord and His saints.

I can judge righteous judgement according to the Word of God. In the the end, however, it is God alone who makes the final decision. Even though He is a merciful God, He does judge by His Word, and only He is qualified to make the final call.

I’m very thankful the weight of people’s eternity is not on my shoulders. I will tell you, however, that judging the fruit of someone’s life can definitely bring you hope or heartache, depending on how they lived.

THE HOPE

The following passage assures that God wants us to have hope when our loved ones pass who are Born Again and living a sanctified life.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

16 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:

17 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.

18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

These words do indeed bring me comfort. My sweet friend, who was Born Again, and lived her whole life in the service of the Lord is gone from my presence for now.  For how long, I do not know. What I do know is when Gabriel blows that last trumpet, whether it’s a decade or a hundred years from now, both of our mortal bodies will be changed to immortality in a moment, and we will rise up to meet the Lord and all His saints in the air to forever be with our Savior.

Death is certain, and eternity is real. I desire for you to have this same hope for yourself and your loved ones. There are many paths that promise hope that end in false peace. But the Word of God is sure. In order to have real hope and assurance of eternity, you must be Born Again according to scripture, and live a repentant and sanctified life like my friend.

THE SCRIPTURAL PATTERN

JESUS: Death -> Burial -> Resurrection

YOU: Repentance -> Baptism in Jesus’ Name -> Be Filled With the Holy Ghost 

 

“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.

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.“ (Acts 2:38-39)

Warm Regards,

~Pat Vick~