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~

The God of 2nd Chances

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Steve Knutson on Unsplash

Back in the last century when I was a freshman in high school, I was on a class trip out of state. We had just finished our meal at a fast food restaurant. Dropping our trash in the receptacles, I was approached by a homeless man. He said he was hungry, and asked for food.

I wish I could say that compassion flooded my soul, and I allowed Jesus to minister to this man through me. Sadly, the opposite is true. It was the first time I had ever been confronted by the raw needs of humanity. I didn’t know how to respond. I was shocked to be approached so directly. I was shocked that someone expected me to do something about their situation.

Surrounded by my peer group, I was concerned with what they might think. What would they do if he had approached them? And what if he was faking his plight? Maybe this was his way to get out of actually working…Why did I care so much what everyone thought? More importantly, how did I become so jaded at fifteen?

While I was trying to decide the acceptable protocol, another young lady in our group didn’t hesitate. She reached into her pocket, pulled out a few bills and change she had left from her purchase, and placed it in his outstretched hand.

“Enjoy your meal, Sir,” she said with confidence and compassion in her voice.

Immediately, I felt a spectrum of emotions. Embarrassment and humiliation were at the forefront. While I was trying to decide what to do, my own peer stepped in and did what needed to be done. It was a hard lesson learned that day. The most important being the need for compassion. I’ve carried the memory of that one hungry man for over four decades. It has helped me navigate through many interactions with the hurts of humanity.

Fast forward forty plus years…

I was sitting in a restaurant miles away from home with my peer group of ministry friends. We were talking, laughing and generally enjoying a sense of belonging. As we walked to our table, I had noticed out of my peripheral vision, a man sitting alone. No one ever came to sit with him.

When our food arrived, we clued in to why the sandwiches we ordered were called “freighters.” Each one was cut in half, and both halves took up almost the whole plate, leaving only a small spot for fries. We laughed and ate together, distracted from the man sitting alone by our food and fellowship.

After several minutes of good food and playful banter, I noticed the man walk to the counter to pay. He was carrying a backpack. Not paying a lot of attention, I thought I heard the cashier say, “You’re okay.” After which, he left the restaurant. A few seconds later, I shared glances with the friend sitting closest to me who also had a clear view of the counter area. She said, “I wonder if he had anything to eat.” She had heard the man tell the cashier he didn’t have the money to pay for the coffee.

I think both of us felt like we had missed a moment to help someone in need, and now the man was gone. I focused my attention back to the “freighter” on my plate. It just got bigger on my plate, and dryer in my mouth the more I chewed. My mind refused to unfocus from the man carrying the backpack. What if he was hungry? I remembered the hungry man in the fast food restaurant over forty years earlier. That feeling of embarrassment and humiliation was back, but another emotion was stronger. Compassion. What if he was still outside the restaurant, and hungry?

I couldn’t chew another bite until I found out. I got up from the table and headed to the front door. Stepping outside into the sunlight, I saw him. He was sitting on a bench just outside with his backpack beside him.

“Are you hungry?” I asked. He replied with a simple, “Yes.”

I told him to stay right there, and I would be back. Stepping back inside the restaurant, I asked for a to go box. I put the untouched half of my freighter in which took up half the box. Even more food was added when everyone realized my mission.

When I took it out to him, it felt really good to be able to look him in the eyes and say, “Enjoy your meal.” My half of the freighter also tasted good again, and I no longer had to swallow it past the lump in my throat.

SECOND CHANCES

We’ve heard over and over how God is a God of 2nd chances, and He certainly is. Usually, we are referring to the continual opportunities he grants us to be Born Again, or to come back to Him in repentance. Yes, ABSOLUTELY!

He’s also the God of 2nd chances when He’s teaching us to follow the leading of the Holy Ghost, and when He is teaching us how to hear His voice, and be sensitive to the moving of His Spirit.

He is constantly schooling us in the art of handling humanity. His people. Not only those who are sanctified and in His service, but also those who are banged up, running, going through a hard season they’ve brought on themselves by terrible choices, and even the brash & crusty ones.

Thankfully, He keeps giving us chance after chance to get it right. He’s the God of 2nd chances.

What has He given you 2nd chances to learn and apply in your walk with Him?

Warm Regards,

~Pat Vick~.

Feel free to leave a comment, share to social media, SUBSCRIBE HERE to my newsletter, and email me at pat@patvick.com

 

Finding Solace & More In The Secret Place

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash

“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2)

I had a rough beginning as a young child. In order to deal with the emotional trauma of abuse and neglect, I would imagine my body being the house I lived in. My eyes were windows from where I watched the world around me. When life’s circumstances became too heavy to bear, I would pull the shutters on the windows by closing my eyes. In this secret place, I was safe. I found solace. No matter what raged around me. No matter who said or did things that caused me pain, I found solace in my secret place. I never determined to think this way, or deal with trauma in this manner. For as long as I can remember, it was simply the most natural response to circumstances beyond my control. 

I’ve sat beside the bed of several people who were at the point of death. There is a pattern I’ve noticed that has been confirmed by hospice workers. At the end of life, it’s very common for people to “go inside.” Even though there might be trauma going on in the body, and people are coming and going around them, they have “closed the shutters,” for these final hours.

It’s worth pointing out that in both of these scenarios, it doesn’t take conscious effort or energy to go inside to this secret place. Both at the beginning and end of life, it’s the most natural response. 

Now as an adult full of the Holy Ghost, I realize this process is a God-given coping mechanism for navigating life. As a child, I didn’t realize God was there with me in my secret place. Yet, looking back at those painful seasons, I see so clearly that I was actually retreating into Him.

”That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.” (Acts 17:27-28)

The problem comes in the middle. For some reason, in between the beginning and the end, we come to believe that we must have all the answers. We must work all the problems. We must have a plan for every circumstance. We must navigate every situation in our flesh. 

The truth is God doesn’t expect us to navigate life’s seasons in our flesh. He wants us to be like that little girl who so quickly pulled the shutters closed. Not to hide from reality, but to find solace in His Presence. 

SOLACE

  1. comfort in sorrow, misfortune, or trouble; alleviation of distress or discomfort.

  2. something that gives comfort, consolation, or relief.

Do you need comfort in your sorrow, misfortune or trouble? Do you long for something to alleviate your distress or discomfort? Are you desperate for something that will give you comfort, consolation or relief? I have the answer for you, and it’s not something; it’s Someone. 

The world will tell you, or at least make you feel like you’re weak if you draw away with God. Yet, in His Presence is exactly where He desires us to be. It’s where we should desire to be.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

That doesn’t mean we’re not fighting the Good Fight of faith. It doesn’t mean we don’t trust God. It in no way means we’re being inactive or ineffective for the Kingdom. On the contrary, in the Secret Place of His Presence is where we are most faithful, most trusting and most active and effective In Kingdom work.

It’s in the Secret Place that spiritual warfare is accomplished. Not necessarily from a pulpit or any place of visibility. It’s true that God elevates and promotes who He chooses, bringing them out of obscurity to accomplish a work for His purpose. The most coveted place, however, should be when we draw away with Him, and close the shutters.

When I was a child, I fled to that place in fear, not yet knowing God, or that I was doing the most natural thing a child of God can do. Today, I rush into that same Secret Place, not in fear, but in the authority of His Name and full of Holy Ghost power. It’s where He and I accomplish our finest work together. Yes, I find solace in the Secret Place, and so much more.

“Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.“ (Isaiah 26:20)

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

As always, feel free to leave a comment, share to social media, SUBSCRIBE HERE to my newsletter, and email me at pat@patvick.com

What Two Events Must Happen Before The Rapture?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Terence Burke on Unsplash

The vast majority of Christians believe the Rapture of the Church is the next big event on the end time timeline. However, a close study of scripture reveals there are two major events that must occur first.

Granted, we must be ready to meet the Lord at any moment. None of us know how many days our lives consist of, or what moment we will personally pass through the veil of death into an eternity spent either in or out of God’s presence.

However, when we talk about the timing of the RAPTURE of the Church, according to scripture, it must still be at least SEVEN YEARS away. As I said, there are two major events still on the end time timeline. Let’s talk about each one.

SIXTH TRUMPET WAR
(Revelation 9)

“And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God,” (Revelation 9:13)

The 6th angel refers to the sounding of the sixth trumpet. It is largely believed that the sounding of these seven trumpets are still in the future. However, we are currently living between the 5th & 6th trumpets. (The sounding of the fifth trumpet being the Gulf War.) The 7th trumpet, or Last Trump, will be the Rapture of the Church when we are caught up into the air to be with Jesus, go to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, and return with Him to the Battle of Armageddon. 

“Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates.” (Revelation 9:14)

These four “angels” which are loosed, are demonic spirits. We know they are not holy angels because they are bound. Their mission is to go out and draw world leaders into what we know to be World War lll.

These demonic spirits are at this moment bound under the Euphrates River, and will be loosed from that geographical area. There are four nations that border the Euphrates. Turkey, Syria, Iraq & Iran. This prophecied war will originate from this area, and quickly spread to other nations.

“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.” (Revelation 9:15)

We should be in deep and consistent prayer over end time events. Praying for this war not to happen, however, is futile. Its timing is locked in to God’s end time calendar of events, and nothing will change it, or keep it from happening.

The most disturbing detail of this prophecy is the number of people who will be killed in this war. Scripture specifically says “the third part of men.” It would be easy to assume, and hope, scripture is referring to a third part of people in a certain geographical location. While I am strictly a King James Version girl, in this instance I’d love to find other translations proving this theory. Unfortunately, every notable version of the Bible translates this phrase to mean one third of all mankind. Or one third of the world’s population. 

There are over 8 billion souls alive on the earth at present. It is excruciating to consider that over two and a half billion people will soon perish. The vast majority of them lost without God.

“And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them.” (Revelation 9:16)

We find out here the main instigating army will consist of 200,000,000 soldiers. This is an astounding number that can only be fielded at this time by four nations or people groups:

-China, whose leader actually boasted of being able to field this exact number of soldiers, and is a nuclear power on the world stage.

-Islam, which is the prophecied “pale/green horse” of Revelation 6:8 whose rider was death.

-India, who also is a nuclear power.

-America, who has a strong military presence around the world, and is also a nuclear power.

“And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone.” (Revelation 9:17)

Here we see the imagery John used to describe modern day military equipment and warfare using the only reference points he knew at the time.


“By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths.” (Revelation 9:18)

Fire. Smoke. Brimstone. By these, one third of humanity will be killed. This war will undoubtedly be a nuclear exchange in order for such a vast number of people to perish.

***Please note this war occurs at the 6th Trumpet. The 5th Trumpet was the Gulf War (1990-1991) and the 7th Trumpet, when the Church will be raptured, is still in the future. This is one way we know this world war will occur BEFORE the rapture. It is one of the next two events on the end time timeline. Let’s talk about the other event we’re looking to happen before the rapture. Either of these events could happen first. Scripture isn’t explicitly clear which comes first.

CONFIRMATION OF THE COVENANT 
(Daniel 9)

“Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.“ (Daniel 9:24)

This prophecy was revealed to Daniel by the angel Gabriel at the beginning of the Jewish people’s captivity in Babylon. He is told that God has decreed a time period of judgement against the Jewish people of seventy weeks. This refers to 70 weeks of years, or 490 years. The end of this time period will accomplish five specific things:

1. Finish the transgression

2. Make an end of sins

3. Make reconciliation for iniquity 

4. Bring in everlasting righteousness 

5. Seal up the vision and prophecy

6. Anoint the Most Holy

For the sake of the brevity of this article, I will simply say there is one remaining week of years, or a final seven year period of time. We know this final seven years hasn’t occurred because none of the six requirements have happened yet. These will be the final seven years before Jesus raptures the Church, and returns to the earth to set up His earthly Kingdom.


“And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.” (Daniel 9:27)

There is a specific event that will happen to trigger this final seven year period. Students of Bible prophecy call it the Confirmation of the Covenant. The “he” in this verse refers to the antichrist. He is a political figure whose identity we cannot be sure of at this point, but is undoubtedly working behind the scenes at present. He will confirm, or put his stamp of approval and support  on a seven year peace agreement between the Jewish people and the Palestinian people. 

This agreement will affirm the Covenant God made with Abraham and his descendants through his son Isaac. He would give them a Promised Land (the land we know as Israel) forever. This seven year peace agree will establish several specific things:

1. It will affirm the Jewish people’s right to their God-given homeland.

2. It will establish a Palestinian homeland in Judea-Samaria, also known as the West Bank.

3. It will allow for the building of a third Jewish Temple.

4. It will allow Jews and Arabs to both worship on the Temple Mount.

5. It will establish a Palestinian state, presumably in Judea-Samaria (the West Bank)

IN SUMMARY

While it is unclear which of these events will occur first, recent world developments reveal how quickly either one might happen. Never before in modern history could we imagine a scenario where any nation would actually bomb the nuclear Iran. Yet it happened. I dare say there have been several itchy fingers on nuclear buttons in recent weeks. We are also seeing the resurrection of the Abraham Accords, which could easily produce this prophecied Israeli/Palestinian peace agreement. 

In a world of uncertainty, one thing is certain. Major life-changing events are on the horizon, and it’s high time to seek and serve the Lord with all our hearts and strength. What will be your mindset? How will you navigate these final seven years once they begin? Will you be consumed by anxiety, or will you be found faithful and working for the Kingdom?

”And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” (Daniel 11:32)

Warm Regards,

~Pat Vick

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