What Is The Greatest Need In The World Today?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Samuel Martins on Unsplash


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


My People

This scripture is addressed to a particular group of people. While it is relevant and true for all mankind, it is a specific call to the people of God. As we see wickedness prevailing all around us, the Church is being beckoned by God to pray like never before. What do I mean by “the Church?” Who are these individuals? The Church is made up of people who are born again according to scripture.

Many people claim Christianity, but have never experienced this New Birth. In the Old Testament before Jesus offered himself as the sacrifice for our sins, the people of God were set apart from the world through the animal sacrificial system. However, since Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Ghost in Acts chapter two, we become the people of God by being born again of the water and Spirit. The New Birth process is given very specifically in Acts 2:38:

“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)

So the “My People” of 2 Chronicles 7:14 are those who are scripturally born again. They have repented of their sins, been baptized in the only saving name of Jesus Christ, and have received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues. This pattern is clearly seen in Acts chapters 2, 8, 10 and 19.

Who Are Called By My Name

Again, many people claim to be Christians, having never taken on the name of Jesus. We take on his name in baptism. Many have never been baptized at all, not realizing that baptism is necessary “for the remission (removal) of sins.” Others have been baptized, yet not in Jesus’ name. The early Church of the New Testament knew and practiced only one baptismal formula, calling the name of Jesus Christ over the one being immersed. If you have been baptized any other way, including having the titles father, son and Holy Ghost spoken over you, I urge you to study out the topic prayerfully, and be re-baptized in Jesus’ name.

Humble Themselves 

In a world that is hyper focused on “self,” it takes a consistent effort to focus on being humble. And not only being humble, but specifically the act of humbling one’s self. The word humble here means to bend the knee and bring down into subjection. This concept is so foreign in the day we live. The world view is to be puffed up in pride, arrogance and self promotion. To fight for my way and my rights. God’s way, however, is to be in submission to His Spirit at all times.

Pray

We get so busy being busy for God that we forget to actually spend time communicating and communing with Him. Prayer is our lifeline. Just watching, listening or reading one news story a day is enough to bring fear, anxiety and depression into our minds…if we don’t pray. The world has gone crazy. The perilous times Jesus spoke of have arrived, and will only escalate until He returns. We are the generation called to navigate these end time events. We must not allow the condition of the world to cause us to hide under our covers, hoping it will all just go away. God has called us to pray His Will into existence. If we, the Born Again People of God won’t, who will?

Seek My Face

A lot of people are seeking God, but they are seeking His Hand, not His Face. They are seeking blessing, but not relationship. Yes, He has instructed us to ask for what we need, but those prayers should come from an intimate relationship with Him. He wants to meet our needs, and even bless us with things we want, but don’t necessarily need. He’s good like that. His great desire, however, is for us to be with Him. From the very beginning of creation in the garden, it was His pattern to visit with Adam and Eve daily. To commune with them. When we begin to press into His Presence daily, seeking His face, not just requesting goodies from His hand, things will begin to change. Our lives, homes, relationships, communities and lackluster church experience will be changed.

Turn From Their Wicked Ways

Here’s a truth: God does not bless sin. We are living in the dispensation of grace, and His grace is truly amazing. But we have leaned on God’s grace until it has become disgraceful. His grace is given to lead us to repentance, not to continue living in sin. If we profess to be His, we are called to Holiness and Sanctification. I realize it’s not a popular lifestyle with the world, nor with professing Christians who live with one foot in the Church and one foot in the world, but that’s really the point, isn’t it? It’s time to be all in.

“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” (Romans 6:1-2)

Then

The above mentioned actions are what we are accountable for. We must do our part, and do it consistently, before we can expect what happens after the “then.” When we are obedient to be born again according to scripture, so that we can be called by His Name, humble ourselves regularly, pray consistently, seek His face in relationship and not only His hand of blessing, turn from our wicked ways, THEN we can expect Him to respond accordingly.

Hear From Heaven

This begins God’s response to our obedience and faithfulness. He will hear from Heaven. Doesn’t God know, see and hear us at all times? Well, there’s hearing, and then there’s hearing. He is always listening to hear us call on His name in true repentance, in baptism and in seeking the in filling of His Spirit. He is always listening to hear us humble ourselves before Him and call on His name in prayer, desperate and determined to seek His face. THEN He hears us when we pray according to His will. THEN He hears our spiritual warfare prayers that push back the darkness, tear down strongholds, and bring deliverance to our families, friends and loved ones.

Forgive Their Sin

It’s worth repeating that God will never bless sin. If we want our sins forgiven, we must do our part so that He will hear us, and respond with forgiveness. But it’s not only about us. The Born Again People of God are the conduit of His mercy to a sinful world. If people are going to be forgiven of their sins, it will be largely due to our sincere prayers for them. Not sweet little lay me down to sleep or Lord, bless this food prayers. But deep, consistent intercessory prayers for a lost and dying world. God in Heaven, we beseech you to hear us in Jesus name!

Heal Their Land

I believe with all my heart that America has a God given mission in the earth. It’s the very reason for its existence. To be an ally, support and help to the nation of Israel in these last days before Jesus’ return. How can we do that, be that, fulfill that with the most heinous lifestyles being promoted as good, normal and to be sought after in our nation? How?! It is time, and high time, that the  Church of the Living God be salt and light in a nation and world bound by sin.

Conclusion

I believe God has promised us a great end time revival in these last days.yes, I know scripture speaks of a great “falling away,” but it’s a two way street. Many people are rushing headlong into hell, but others, many others, are hungry for Truth. Hungry for the real things of God, and not the counterfeit. Let’s make it our mission to find them. Let’s live out 2 Chronicles 7:4 before them, and watch God respond by hearing us from Heaven, forgiving our sins and healing our nation. In Jesus’ name.

So, what is the greatest need in the world today?

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

 

Warm Regards,

-Pat Vick

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

 

 

Can We Know The Timing Of Jesus’ 2nd Coming?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

There are many misunderstood scriptures in the Bible, but of them all, Matthew 24:36 is one of the most misinterpreted. Let me begin by saying I in no way disagree with this verse. At the present time, no one knows the day or hour Jesus will return. When Jesus spoke these words two thousand years ago, there was no way his disciples could have known the timing of the rapture. Why is this?

“But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” (Matthew 24:36)

THE USE OF PRESENT TENSE

Notice that this scripture is spoken by Jesus, and recorded, in present tense. The use of the word ‘knoweth’  helps us understand that He was speaking literally about his present time, not ours.

It wasn’t intended for his original disciples’ generation to know. If He had chosen to let them know it would be another 2,000 years before His return, not only would they not have been able to comprehend it, but they would have been so completely overcome by grief that they would not have been able to face the upcoming trauma of his death.

A HEAVY WEIGHT

We see from Daniel how the burden of knowing too much information out of season is too heavy to carry. He received much revelation about the end time, and it was almost more knowledge than he could know and still function, making him sick for many days.

”And I Daniel fainted, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king’s business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it.” (Daniel 8:27)


FOR A FUTURE GENERATION TO KNOW

When he desired to know when these things would happen, God let him know clearly it wasn’t for him to know in his lifetime.

“But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” (Daniel 12:4)

“And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:8-9)

Likewise, Jesus basically gave His disciples the same answer when they wanted to know the timing of future events. Possibly only minutes away from His ascension into Heaven, He focused them, instead, on receiving the Holy Ghost which was soon to be poured out in order to receive strength and power to persevere and be effective witnesses.

“When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.” (Acts 1:6-7)

KNOWING THE SEASON

Jesus did, however, list signs which were recorded so the generation that would be alive at the time of His return would recognize the season. This list can be found in his great end time discourse in Matthew 24 and Mark 13. Here are a few: 

Wars and rumors of war, famines, pestilence, earthquakes in diverse (different) places. Most people continue to look at this list as if it’s still in the future. In reality, we’ve been living in this season for many years.

WHEN WILL WE KNOW?

“Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand. 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 12:10-11)

There is coming a time in the near future when a third Jewish temple will be built. When that happens, the Jewish people will reinstitute animal sacrifices, as God required in the Old Testament. Soon after this occurs, a person, still unknown to us, who we refer to as the antichrist, will step into that newly built temple, stop the daily sacrifices, and proclaim himself to be the messiah the world has been waiting for. This milestone event is known as the Abomination of Desolation.

Daniel 12:11 plainly tells us that from this event until Jesus’ return will be 1,290 days. This is the three and one half year time period of the Great Tribulation. It is triggered by the Abomination of Desolation. At the end of these three and one half years of tribulation, Jesus will return at the Battle of Armageddon which will already be raging, and put a stop to the war and all persecution of His Jewish people. He will then set up His earthly Kingdom, and we (the born again Church) will rule and reign with Him in the earth for one thousand years.

GOD’S CLOCK

Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.“ (2 Peter 3:3-4)

The worldwide doubt of Jesus’ return is more prophecy fulfilled. Even though we are in a season of waiting, the signs are all around us. Unfortunately, most people have simply become numb to their meaning. One thing we can know for certain, when the Abomination of Desolation occurs, the countdown will begin.

HE WILL COME LIKE A THIEF

You might be mentally refuting what I’m saying because after all, the Apostle Paul told us without question that Jesus would come as a thief in the night. Surely that means no one can possibly know when He’s coming. Right? 

“For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.“ (1 Thessalonians 5:2)

Ah, but often we only need to read a bit further to get context and clarity. When we continue reading, we find Paul is specifically referring to those who live in darkness. Unbelievers. Unfaithful. He also makes it clear that we should pay attention so the coming of the Lord doesn’t catch us unaware.

“But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” (1 Thessalonians 5:4-6)

The truth is the Lord wants His Church to know the timing of His 2nd coming. Presently, we can only know we are in the season of His return. But we have been in this season for many years. We see world events lining up with end time prophecy every day. Soon, the three and one half year countdown will begin.

WE ARE THAT GENERATION 

Jesus tells his disciples (and us) that the generation that witnesses all these signs will also see His return.

“So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.“ (Matthew 24:33-34)

Knowing that ours is the generation who will witness not only Jesus’ return, but the perilous times leading up to His coming, we should be focused on the things of God more than ever before. We have a responsibility to be aware of world events, know the Word of God and be prepared and willing to pray, teach, preach and disciple people into the Kingdom of God.


“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. And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. (Daniel 11:33)

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.

The Oneness of God: Not Just Semantics

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:” (Deuteronomy 6:4)

Years ago, when our oldest child was going into his second grade school year, we made the decision to homeschool. We had previously been very pleased with his school, but during his first grade year, we began to see quite a bit of New Age material coming home in his daily parent packets.

In the state we lived at the time, every homeschool had to have an umbrella school that they were accountable to. The only umbrella school that we knew of at the time was a trinitarian based church school.

When we approached the principal of the school about homeschooling under their umbrella, I made sure to explain to him what we believed doctrinally. He listened patiently, and then said with a shrug, “No problem. It’s just semantics.”

Honestly, I didn’t even know what the word “semantics” meant at the time. I could tell from the flippant manner in which he tossed out the word that he wasn’t appreciating the difference between our two drastically different doctrinal viewpoints.

I could have taken the approach that said, Well, if it’s not a big deal to him, then it’s not a big deal to me. After all, my son would never actually be in a classroom setting with him.

Yet, it was very important to me. I would never have wanted him or anyone to think that I agree with the trinitarian doctrine, when the Oneness of God is the foundation of knowing God. Because of this, I wrote out on a piece of paper, briefly describing my belief in the Oneness doctrine, and signing and dating it for him to put in my son’s school file.

Trinity doctrine contends that the one God exists in three separate co-equal and co-eternal persons. There is no logic in this teaching. No matter how it is softened or rationalized or explained, three co-equal and co-eternal persons means three, not one.

Oneness doctrine contends that God is a Spirit. The Holy Spirit. The Eternal Spirit of God manifest Himself to the world in the body of the man, Jesus Christ. This is the INCARNATION. That man was the son. The son is not eternal. He had a beginning. He was the only begotten of the Father. After Jesus died, was resurrected, and ascended into Heaven, the same Holy Spirit of God that dwelled in Jesus, infills Believers today as the Holy Ghost. Three manifestations/roles/offices of God. Not three separate beings or persons.

WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?

Why is it so important to understand the Oneness of God? As long as we believe in Him, love Him, and do our best to serve Him, isn’t that enough?

The first reason, I have mentioned. God’s Oneness is the foundation that He expects all other knowledge of Him to be built on. It is the first of all commandments, according to Moses’ and Jesus’ teaching. It is not our place to try to make God who we imagine Him to be. It is His prerogative to define Himself to us, not vice verse.

Secondly, just as in building a natural structure, if the foundation isn’t sure, every level that is built on it will be more and more structurally unsound. So it is with doctrine.

Where the trinity is taught, rarely are Jesus’ name baptism and the in filling of the Holy Ghost taught as a necessity to salvation. Even further removed from the unstable foundation of trinity doctrine is the subject of holiness.

On the contrary, where the Oneness of God is taught, you will almost certainly find the clear and biblical teaching of the New Birth as in Acts 2:38 -Repentance, Baptism in Jesus’ name, the infilling of the Holy Ghost, and a lifestyle of Holiness.

I now know that Semantics is the interpretation of language meanings. The principal was saying it didn’t matter what I believed, verses what he believed about God. That it was fine to interpret the godhead in whatever manner each of us chose.

No, my friend.

The Oneness of God isn’t just semantics. It is Truth.

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

 

From Generation To Generation

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments
Photo by Casey Horner on Unsplash

From the vantage point in my late fifties, I’m becoming more and more aware of the passing of time, as well as the passing of great men and women of God. It seems every few months or weeks another spiritual giant is called home. On one hand, I rejoice for them. On the other, I am troubled in my spirit. They have navigated this world’s obstacles, and finally passed through the veil of time and flesh into their eternal reward. They are where they’ve lived their whole lives to be -in the presence of their Lord. How could I begrudge them that? How could I want to bring them back to this life of trial and sorrow? David assured us in his writings that God looks on the passing of His saints with joy.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” (Psalm 166:15)

Yet, standing at the casket of a beloved Pillar of Faith, my spirit is pressed by a familiar question. Am I ready? Now that it’s my turn to carry the flame of Truth to my generation, do I have what it takes to stand strong? And not only to stand, but to be an effective witness to those around me. And not only to be a witness, but to be a source of strength, knowledge, wisdom, understanding doctrine, able to teach, manifesting the fruit of the Spirit, operating in the gifts of the Spirit…Let’s face it…It’s a lot.

THE PROCESS

People are called by the Spirit of God in every generation to be Evidence Bearers of God’s Truth and Holiness. This responsibility is passed from elder to younger so that no generation is without a witness.

Godly parents are to pass the mantle of Truth on to their children. This is evident in scripture. Abraham to Isaac. Isaac to Jacob. Jacob to Joseph. Lois to Eunice to Timothy.

Godly mentors are to pass the mantle of Truth on to their protégés. Also evident in scripture. Moses to Joshua. Elijah to Elisha. Paul to Timothy.

It seems significant that both of these spiritual threads lead to Timothy. Whether you came by the Truth via biological, or spiritual lineage, you are Timothy. I am Timothy. 

THE NEED

So often, our elders pass with much of their spiritual knowledge, wisdom and experiences ungifted and untold. They are vessels, still full, and needing a conduit to be poured into. I remember so many hours sitting in a dear elder’s home, listening to her tell the stories of her life. Yes, I had plenty of other pressing things to do. Yes, she told the same ones over and over. You would be surprised how many answers I got to unasked questions just by listening to her talk. How I wish I could sit and listen to her wisdom today, but she has gone on to her reward, a vault that cannot be opened again on this side of eternity.

THE OBLIGATION

I am first generation Apostolic. Meaning, I didn’t have anyone in my direct family lineage who passed this Truth to me. That’s not to say I didn’t have people who loved me, and lived Christian values in front of me. I will always be thankful, however, that God made a way for me to hear the core truths of the Oneness of God, the essentiality of Repentance, Baptism in Jesus’ Name and the infilling of the Holy Ghost (New Birth message Acts 2:38-39) and the importance of a life of Holiness. I’m so thankful that there were people who welcomed me into their home to teach me a Bible study week after week, so that I could become rooted and grounded in Truth. I’m so thankful for godly mentors who lived their lives full of the Holy Ghost and manifesting both the  Fruit and Gifts of the Spirit in front of me. 

Now, it’s my turn. Now, it’s your turn.

You and I have an obligation before the Lord to take what’s been gifted to us from the elders in our lives, not only to live it, but also to transfer it to those coming up under us. This is the process of mentorship that keeps the Gospel moving from one generation to the next. We must stop thinking someone else is going to do it, live it, share it. If that is our mindset, we might just take it with us, unpoured, into eternity.

THE BURDEN

We are undoubtedly living in the last days before Jesus returns to set up His earthly Kingdom. I am weighted down with the burden to invest into hungry souls. Yes, the New Birth message, but also knowledge, wisdom, fruit of the Spirit, Gifts of the Spirit, prayer, fasting, anointing and life experiences. There’s no reason the next generation should have to relearn every life lesson.

THE CHARGE

If you are an elder, find someone who is hungry to pour into. Even if they don’t seem hungry for spiritual food, feed them anyway. You don’t know who God has called them to be. That frustrating teenager who seems destined to be Saul of Tarsus, might just be the next Apostle Paul. 

If you are a young person, find someone full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom whose footsteps you can follow. With their guidance, you’ll know how to fight the battles they’ve already lived through. 

For Heaven’s sake, if you’re still breathing, find a way to pass this Truth from your generation to the next.

“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)

In Jesus’ Name,

-Pat Vick

 

Is AI Replacing Anointing?

~ Pat Vick ~ 1 Comment

Photo by Igor Omilaev on Unsplash

At the dawn of creation, God breathed into Adam, and he became a living soul. From Adam, God took bone, and formed Eve. His desire was to have a people to commune with. A people who would choose by their own will to seek His face, and fellowship with Him. Adam and Eve were accustomed to hearing God’s voice. He visited with them daily.

“And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:8)

After their fall into sin, they no longer enjoyed that sweet communion. God, however, has always made a way for people who seek Him in sincerity to fellowship with Him. Both speaking, and hearing from Him. Through the millennia, most of humanity has run from, railed at, mocked or simply ignored the Voice, Spirit and Word  of God. But a precious few in every generation have sought Him.

People like David, the sweet psalmist of Israel, who sought His presence and composed anointed psalms while tending his father’s sheep.

People like Abram who heard the voice of the Lord calling him out of an idolatrous land to a land of promise.

People like Noah who received detailed blueprints to build an ark which saved his family through a global flood.

People like Daniel who prayed three times a day, for whom God shut the mouths of lions, and revealed endtime prophecy.

People like the prophets and apostles who wrote what they heard in prayer so that we can have the Bible we study today.

People like John who communed with God while imprisoned on the Isle of Patmos, and wrote the Revelation of Jesus Christ as God presented it to Him.

These, and so many others, sought the Lord in the most pressing, dangerous and volatile situations, and were faithful to write what God communicated to them.

“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:21)

The great Apostle Paul wrote two-thirds of the New Testament that we read today while he faithfully sought the mind of God in the most brutal circumstances.

“Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.” (2 Corinthians 11:24-28)

ENTER ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

There is a danger that has sneaked subtly into our daily lives. The Trojan Horse of AI. It has been marketed and promoted as a helpful tool, and so it can be. We like to think we are smarter than it. We’re not. It is an ever-learning computer program that computes and compiles information at rates faster than all the world’s scientists put together, and it is amassing information at an alarming speed. We like to think we have control of it. We don’t. It is firmly intrenched in every area of our lives, collecting information, and making choices for us around the clock.

WHERE’S THE LINE?

It may sound like I’m against AI. I’m not. I like convenience as much as the next person. I’m simply suggesting that the Church must push back and draw a line against AI’s encroachment into holy things. It has become so normal to use AI in every area of our lives that many are substituting it for true anointing. Studying, preaching, teaching and even writing whole books can now be done by a few key strokes with no one the wiser.

A LITTLE EXPERIMENT

I asked ChatGPT to compose a poem about the Oneness of God in Jesus Christ. In less than two seconds after pushing the enter button, this masterpiece was delivered to me:

IN JESUS, ONE DIVINE by ChatGPT

In silent depths beyond the skies,
Where holy light and mystery rise,
There dwells a truth forever bright—
God’s oneness shines in sacred light.

No shadow parts the radiant whole,
No fragment mars the holy soul,
For God in Christ is fully known,
The Father’s heart and Spirit shown.

The Word made flesh, in humble birth,
Brought heaven’s peace upon the earth,
A holy flame, both pure and true,
In Jesus Christ, God’s face breaks through.

No veil divides, no power can sever,
The sacred bond that lasts forever—
One God, one love, one holy grace,
Revealed in Christ’s embracing face.

So lift your voice, your heart restore,
To worship Him forevermore—
The holy One, the risen Light,
In Jesus Christ, our soul’s delight.

-ChatGPT

Without question, these words are beautiful and pristine…yet, completely without emotion or anointing. Is that what God has called us to?

WHAT SHOULD BE THE STANCE OF THE CHURCH?

We should not desire this. This should bring us to our knees in repentance. We should seek the Lord’s face and His anointing before technology. Sadly, people will read this poem, and share it again and again. Yet if a man or woman of God writes or speaks words a Holy God has placed in their hearts, they sit on a shelf gathering dust.

What has our society come to? We are in a dangerous place. What is the tipping point when humanity won’t be able to tell the difference between AI and Anointing…or even care? I dare say we have arrived, and many can’t tell the difference even now.

A HOLY MADATE

Man or Woman of God, you have a commission and unction from the Holy One to seek His face as holy men and women of old did.

Are you using AI to write your Sunday sermons and midweek Bible studies? Are you doing so without spending time in dedicated prayer, fasting and Bible study? This is a disgrace to  every man and woman of God who has sought the Lord with sweat and tears through the millennia. God has called His people to be in relationship with Him. Anointed messages, lessons, books, songs and testimonies naturally flow from this RELATIONSHIP.

A USEFUL TOOL

You may ask, “Can I use AI at all? Artificial Intelligence should be viewed and used as a helpful tool. Using AI demands being honest with ourselves. Are we tempted to use it for more than a help? I mean, no one would actually know that beautifully crafted Pentecost Sunday message wasn’t straight from God’s heart to yours. The congregation would be blessed. You would look super spiritual. It would be a win/win situation…Or would it?

Don’t ministers of the Gospel owe more than the push of a few buttons to Jesus’ sacrifice, as well as all those who have poured out their lives to bring God’s Word from generation to generation? Isn’t His Word worth a bit of self sacrifice, and spiritual sensitivity. Shouldn’t we pull away from the flash and whirl of the world for a space, and give ourselves to seeking the Mind of Christ? Machines can’t do that. They might be efficient, but they don’t actually feel. AI might be exciting, but it’s not anointed.

Do you need an outline? Bullet Points? A list of facts on a certain subject? There’s probably no harm in that IF you can trust yourself to set up well-defined parameters. Can you? The answer lies within you, Man or Woman of God.

”Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)

Blessings, 

-Pat 

***Be sure to leave a comment (located under the title), and share your thoughts on this hot topic!***

8 Benefits Of Leaning In To Jesus

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
“Poland-01607 – Last Supper” by archer10 (Dennis) is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Jesus chose twelve original disciples. One found a special place in Jesus’ heart more personal than the rest. We gain insight into why he was granted this coveted position as we examine Jesus’ final meal with his disciples before his interrogation, torture and crucifixion.

“Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake. He then lying on Jesus’ breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?“ (John 13:23-25)

It was John who leaned in to His Lord’s chest at the last supper. (Don’t get hung up on the words bosom and breast. These are King James old English words that both mean chest.) There may have been various reasons why John sat closest to Jesus. Perhaps there was assigned seating. Perhaps none of the other disciples recognized the spiritual significance of this meal even though Jesus had told them his death was coming. Perhaps they just weren’t that into Him. No matter the reasons why, the fact is that John leaned in to Him. The others could have. Someone was undoubtedly sitting on his other side, yet there’s no mention in scripture of them leaning in to Jesus. 

 BENEFITS OF LEANING IN TO JESUS

1. SECURITY

John’s desire to be as close to Jesus as possible assured he wouldn’t be the one who betrayed him. All the twelve disciples were seated at the table in close proximity to Jesus, even sharing a meal and allowing Him to wash their feet. Yet, one betrayed Him. It wasn’t John.

We know that disciple to be Judas Iscariot, and feel certain that would never be us. And perhaps we wouldn’t betray him so obviously. Most of us are like Peter who declared fervently that he would never deny his Lord. Yet, before that night was over, had denied him three times. 

There are many ways to deny Jesus without ever saying a word. Literally. Refusing to testify or witness when the need arises can be a denial of Him. Making sure we stay leaned in close is the answer.

2. CONNECTION

Because John leaned in, he was physically positioned closest to Jesus’ heart. So close, in fact, he may have been able to hear and feel it beating.

Jesus taught us that we are the branches and He is the vine. Unless the branches stay connected to the source, there is no life. We may stay busy, and look like we’re living for a while, but unless we stay leaned in to the heart of Jesus, we find ourselves without a burden, and dying spiritually a little more each day.

3. KNOWLEDGE

By leaning in to Jesus, John was able to personally ask and obtain information that wasn’t heard by others.

It should come as no surprise that people who spend more time in God’s Word and communion with Him have more Kingdom knowledge than others. They won’t be caught off guard by end time events like others who have been living their lives with no thought of tomorrow. The signs are all around us, assuring us we need to be leaning in to him more than ever before.

4. RELATIONSHIP

Because of his desire to be closest to Jesus, John was one of three who were Jesus’ inner circle. He put more confidence in them, calling them to come further with him than the others. 

The Lord loves all who bear his name. This is true. Another truth that many don’t like hearing is that there are levels of relationship with Jesus that grant you greater access to his plans and purpose. Continually leaning in to his presence through disciplines such as prayer, fasting, Bible study and worship is the key that grants access.

5. TRUST

John spent three and a half years leaning into Jesus at every opportunity. Because of this, Jesus entrusted him with the most precious thing to his heart -his mother.

When you spend time leaning in to Jesus, you don’t have to seek for important responsibilities. He will send them to you when He knows you’re mature enough to be trusted with them.

6. GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT 

John’s passion to be as close to Jesus as possible rewarded him with spiritual insight and revelation like no other. He was shown the Revelation of Jesus Christ.Today, two thousand years later, we have record of these vivid images documented in the book of Revelation to keep us hopeful and focused on the soon return of Jesus Christ, as well as all of the end time events leading up to this glorious event.

So you want to be used in the Gifts of the Spirit, and see the miraculous in your ministry? The surest way for that to happen is to continually lean in to the heart of Jesus. Even the man, Jesus, said he could do nothing on his own, but it was his Father (Holy Spirit) who did the work.

7. PROTECTION

History tells us that in the later years of his life, the great apostle John was boiled in oil. This may not sound like divine protection to you, however, the Holy Ghost inside of the old faithful apostle refused to turn loose, and John lived on. Afterward, he was banished to the hard labor work colony on the island of Patmos where he continued to serve his God, and received the previously mentioned Revelation of Jesus Christ that we can read in our bibles today. 

Leaning in to Jesus keeps us from many dangers, and takes us through many others.

8. LONGEVITY IN MINISTRY

When God gave John the Revelation of Jesus Christ on Patmos, He also gave him the words to write letters to the seven churches of Asia Minor. We read those letters in Revelation chapters two and three. I would imagine that John thought he would have those letters delivered to these churches, and his ministry would effectively be over except for his continued prayers for them until his death on Patmos. This wasn’t God’s plan, however. The aged John was released from Patmos, and actually spent the rest of his life overseeing these seven churches. 

When we lean in to Jesus, he gives us the withal to be beneficial to the Kingdom right up until He takes us home.

IN SUMMARY

The disciple John showed us by example how he became the great Apostle, Writer, Revelator, Bishop and Faithful to the end Christian. He simply spent his life leaning in to the heart of Jesus.

In Jesus’ Name,

-Pat Vick

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The Promise Is Unto You And To Your Children

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment

Jake Receiving The Holy Ghost

Our family experienced one of the most joyful events recently when our oldest grandson received the infilling of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. This experience is not a new thing. On the contrary, it can be dated back two thousand years to the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two.

“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)

This was the day, the very moment, when God poured out His Spirit upon those who had been waiting, praying and seeking for more of His Presence. This first time outpouring was such a monumental occasion, it was accompanied by the sound of rushing wind, and visible flames of fire over each person’s head. These two signs marked that initial outpouring, yet have not been consistent evidence of subsequent infillings. The sign of TONGUES, however, has remained the obvious initial evidence of being filled with God’s Holy Spirit.

THE PROMISE IS TO YOUR CHILDREN.

Later in Acts chapter two, the Apostle Peter preaches the New Birth message to those gathered in Jerusalem that day for the Feast of Pentecost. They were confused about what they were hearing, and thought the disciples of Jesus were drunk. Peter explained to them that they were not drunk on natural wine as it seemed, but they were filled too overflowing with the Spirit of God. He continues on to tell them that what they were hearing was the last day outpouring which the Prophet Joel had foretold.

He proceeds to teach them the New Birth, and assures them if they are obedient to repentance of their sins and baptism in Jesus’ name, they AND THEIR CHILDREN would receive this amazing gift.

”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)

As Oneness Apostolic Christians, we encourage our children to seek God early. We teach them God’s Word, and create an atmosphere at home and at church that is conducive to their spiritual growth which includes receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

YOU MAY ASK HOW THEY LEARN TO SPEAK IN TONGUES.

This is one of the most beautiful things about receiving the Holy Ghost. No one “learns” how to do it. We don’t teach our children to speak in tongues. We encourage them to worship and seek the Lord wholeheartedly. They instinctively give every part of themselves over to the Spirit of God, and tongues pour out as His Spirit is poured in.

Just as there is no need to teach a baby to cry, neither is there a need to teach someone, even a child, to cry out to God in tongues. Once the body is submitted to God, the spirit instinctively seeks its Creator, and cries out to Him.

PERHAPS YOU THOUGHT TONGUES HAD CEASED.

This line of thinking comes from a passage in 1 Corinthians 13.

”Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.” (1 Corinthians 13:8-10)

From this passage, we learn there will come a time when there will be no more need of speaking in tongues…when that which is perfect is come, speaking of the return of Jesus Christ to set up His earthly Kingdom after the rapture of the church. However, that time is not yet. You and I continue to live in the dispensation just before His return, and the infilling of His Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues, continues to be the obvious and biblical sign of receiving His Spirit, as well as an essential part of the New Birth.

WHY SHOULD YOUR CHILDREN RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST?

Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:13-14)

Even the disciples were confused about Jesus’ love for children. They rebuked parents who wanted to bring their children close to Him for a blessing. But Jesus allowed, and even encouraged children to get as close to Him as possible. Receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost is being filled with the very Spirit that Jesus was filled with. God’s Holy Spirit. Why would we not want this for our children?

THE HOLY GHOST IS A TEACHER, COMFORTER AND SOURCE OF PEACE.

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.  Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.“ (John 14:26)

As parents and grandparents, we do our best to teach our children the ways of God, and the knowledge and wisdom to be overcomers in this life from day to day. We’ve all experienced the fear and sorrow of knowing we can’t be there every single moment to guide our children through life’s difficult paths.

Our children and grandchildren are facing the most treacherous time in the history of the world. Black is called white. Wrong is called right. Rebellion is called freedom. Darkness is called light. Holiness is called bondage.

As a result, confusion often permeates our children’s minds, and anxiety rules their spirits.

Jesus said the greatest teacher, guide, comforter and peace giver is the Spirit of God -the Holy Ghost. Why would we not want this for our children?

A CHILD’S TESTIMONY

Our sweet grandboy, Jake, was wonderfully filled with the priceless gift of the Holy Ghost while surrounded by his family and church family. He lifted his hands high in worship, and sought the Lord with his whole heart, crying out to him unashamedly. In just a few minutes God rewarded him by pouring into him His Holy Spirit. Jake began to speak in a heavenly language, unknown to him, as God’s Spirit flowed in.

Afterward, his testimony to his mother was this, “My heart feels so heavy, but it’s a good feeling because it’s so full of joy!” 

Why would we not want this for our children?

In Jesus’ Name,

-Pat

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Jake with his Memaw & Papaw after receiving the Holy Ghost

Jake with his pastor & pastor’s wife

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are We Witnessing The Rise Of The False Prophet?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment

POPE LEO XIV
Photo Credit: REUTERS/Guglielmo Mangiapane

The Bible prophecies a coming spiritual leader called the false prophet who will promote a political leader called the antichrist in the years just prior to Jesus’ return to set up His earthly kingdom. These two will form an unholy union of church and state, thus controlling the final world government of the end time. This spiritual leader will no doubt be extremely well known, and will preside over the false end time church. God’s true church is described as a chaste virgin without spot or wrinkle, His Bride. This woman, however, is described as ‘the great whore.’  She is not pure, not holy and not godly.

 

IDENTIFYING THE FALSE END TIME CHURCH

In order to properly identity the false prophet, we must first identify the false church over which he will preside. We can accomplish this by studying these clues which God gave us in Revelation chapter seven:

“And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters:” (Revelation 17:1)

The false end time church is called the great whore. She is promiscuous, defiled, and not true to her groom. What dominant religion in the world today has usurped authority over the true church of the Book of Acts, teaching contrary to the Oneness of God, even to the point of issuing decrees making it illegal to carry out biblical baptisms in Jesus’ name?

*****

“And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.” (Revelation 17:15)

The false end time church sits upon ’many waters.’ Verse fifteen interprets the meaning of this phrase. The waters are multitudes of people from various nations and languages. What dominate religion in the world today has 1.4 billion constituents around the world?

*****

”And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:“ (Revelation 17:4)

What religion in the world today is recognized by its high ranking leadership of bishops wearing purple, and its cardinals wearing red? What religion also is noted to be the wealthiest in the world, having amassed and stored treasure troves of riches in private vaults from all over the world? Which religion speaks of holiness, but has consistently permitted, and excused heinous deeds against God’s law and true believers?

*****

And upon her forehead was a name written, Mystery, Babylon The Great, The Mother Of Harlots And Abominations Of The Earth.” (Revelation 17:5)

What religion in the world today has birthed countless daughter churches, who had their beginning by protesting against their mother church, but are now being called back into the fold of ecumenicalism?

*****

”And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.” (Revelation 17:6)

What so called Christian religion in the world today persecuted and killed the true followers of Jesus because they would not forsake the Acts 2:38 New Birth message the apostles taught? What religion is known in our history books for initiating the Dark Ages?

*****

“And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.” (Revelation 17:9)

“And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.” (Revelation 17:18)

What religion in the world today is based in a city surrounded by, and actually known as The City On Seven Hills?


IN SUMMARY

Two thousand years ago, the great apostle John painted a very vivid picture of this false church. She promotes herself as the true church of Jesus Christ, but she lives in complete opposition to truth, even to the point of teaching false doctrine, and persecuting true believers.

She influences people groups all across the world from every nation and language.

She is recognized by her leadership of bishops wearing purple, and her cardinals wearing scarlet. She is rich beyond measure, holding priceless treasures in her vaults from nations around the world, even Jerusalem, the City of the Great God, as depicted on the Arch of Titus.

She is considered the Mother Church of all Protestant daughter churches who were birthed by “protesting” her false doctrines, thereby initiating the Reformation.

Through the centuries, she has persecuted, even to martyrdom, true believers of the Christian faith. These precious souls sought refuge in nations across the world, and even beneath ground in what we know as the catacombs. Still, they were hunted, tortured, burned at the stake and murdered, all in the name of God.

She is based in the city of Rome which is literally called The City of Seven Hills. These hills are named Palatine, Quirinal, Viminal, Esquiline, Capitoline, Aventine and Caelian.

 

IDENTITY OF THE FALSE END TIME CHURCH AND IT’S LEADER

There is no religion but one in the world today which fits all of these clues perfectly. That religion is the Roman Catholic Church based in Rome, Italy. Who is the highest in leadership of Roman Catholicism? It is, of course, the newly elected (as of May 8, 2025) Pope Leo XIV. We cannot, at this time, say whether the current Pope is the prophecied false prophet. We can, however, with full confidence say whoever is Pope of the Roman Catholic Church at the time the antichrist comes into political power will most certainly fill the role of the false prophet. Together, these two men will preside over the final world government and world religious system right up until Jesus returns to set up His earthly Kingdom.

For further information concerning end time events, please visit ENDTIME MINISTRIES.

In Jesus’ name,

-Pat Vick

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MINISTRY MONDAY HANDBOOK: A Book Review

~ Pat Vick ~ 4 Comments

I’m a reader. A prolific reader. It’s in no way an exaggeration when I tell you I haven’t read a book in years that captivated me like Ministry Monday Handbook by Rev. Brian Labat. The subtitle of the work is 52 BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES FOR PASTORS, PREACHERS, AND KINGDOM BUILDERS. I’d like to focus on the last people group, Kingdom Builders, just in case your eyes read the words Pastors and Preachers, and decided this book can’t be for you. If you want to be more than saved and that’s all, if you want to draw closer to God than you currently are or have ever been, if you want to be rooted and grounded solidly in your Christian walk, if you want to be effective and beneficial to the Kingdom of God, this book is for you!

As the subtitle suggests, there are 52 chapters. Don’t panic because each one is only a few pages in length. You could easily read one a day, or even one a week to spend a full year mastering and applying these principles in your life. That was my initial thinking, anyway. However, I will warn you that I couldn’t put it down. Every single principle, page and chapter kept me glued and connected. I would finish one, think I should move on to a daily task, and then find myself turning the page to read just one more…and then one more.

MINISTRY MONDAY HANDBOOK is also very easy to read. The writing is without fluff and to the point. Each principle is delivered in the most practical way possible. Here’s another warning…Once you read each one, you will see it and know it, and you won’t be able to unsee or unknow it. That being said, you’ll have to make a choice of whether to apply it to your life, or not.

I read it with a highlighter, and had to make myself not highlight everything. Here are a few of my favorite points:

CHAPTER 20: LET THAT BE YOUR PRAYER

”If you expect the Lord to do anything about it, then it must concern you enough to pray about it. If it doesn’t concern you enough to pray, then don’t expect anything to change or shift in your life.”

***This one changed my life…my prayer life, which affects my whole life. It answers the question of, “If God knows what I need, why do I have to ask? If He’s a good God, why doesn’t He just do or give what we need?” Could it be He’s waiting to see if it’s important enough for us to actually pray about?

CHAPTER 21: GET UP AND GO ON

“You don’t have to be perfect to be a “just man,” you just have to have as many get ups as you do fall downs.”

***This one made me giggle a little bit over its simplicity, and absolute truth. Just get back up!

CHAPTER 35: THE MINISTRY OF ENCOURAGEMENT

”Notice, Jonathan didn’t wait for David to come to him. Instead, he went and found David. He was deliberate, purposeful, thoughtful, calculated, and determined to help David get through this trial.

Jonathan didn’t wait for an open door or for the time to be just right. He saw David in his struggle and went and found him for the sole purpose of encouraging him.”

***People all around us are discouraged to the point of giving up. Don’t make it any more complicated than it has to be. Say the words. Send the card. Run the errand. Pat the back. Give the hug. Just go be salt and light for goodness sake.

CHAPTER 43: THE CENTER OF IT ALL

”In generations past, the church was their life. Everything revolved around it.

You didn’t miss church. You didn’t lay out of church. You didn’t pick which church services you were going to miss. You didn’t move somewhere if there wasn’t a church.

We have a generation today that sees church as the circumference and not the center, the perimeter but not the epicenter, and the fringe but not the core.”

Also…

”And the reason we need to stay close to the church is because the church is the only thing going to heaven.”

***The church isn’t a side hustle…It’s the only thing going…Mic Drop.

CHAPTER 48: STAY THERE

”We have to know the difference between God redirecting us and the enemy trying to remove us.”

***This is one of those lessons we usually learn the hard way after we’ve allowed the enemy to move us from our god-ordained place, purpose or ministry.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR (as described on the book cover)

Brian Labat is the husband of Ginger Labat and the Father of Brielle Lewis and Ashlyn Matthews. He is a pastor, musician, singer, song writer, and author.He has a passion for leadership and church growth and desires to empower the next generation of leaders.

IN SUMMARY

MINISTRY MONDAY HANDBOOK has my highest recommendation. There are 238 pages, and every single one will bless, instruct, encourage and empower you. I can only hope the author has the next volume in the works.

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ORDER YOUR OWN COPY OF MINISTRY MONDAY HANDBOOK HERE.

 

 

Sanctify Ye A Fast

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments

Because of life circumstances, and the season I’m in, I’ve felt a bit off lately. Sluggish, emotional, frustrated, anxiety-ridden, dull, weighted in spirit…hungry. It started with a circumstance beyond my control -breaking my leg. That was followed by lack of exercise which was followed by sluggishness which was followed by depression which was followed by praying less and less fervently which was followed by anxiety which was followed by …well, you get the idea. 

Knowing I wasn’t feeling good physically, I stepped on the scale. It told the tale my ill-fitting clothes had been proclaiming for a while. I had gained weight. Even though my primary purpose for fasting isn’t to lose weight, the scale is a great diagnostic tool to keep me accountable. It told me the truth when I had been fooling myself into thinking I was only off my fasting lifestyle by a few meals, or a few days. 

When the reality of my situation hit me, I felt a familiar panic welling up inside. What if I can’t regain momentum? What if I can’t recover control, not just over my weight, but over my self? 

The Lord dropped into my spirit a scripture, and I knew it was the answer. Fasting IS the answer. But how can fasting be the answer when I can’t seem to find the mental discipline to fast regularly? 

Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the Lord your God, and cry unto the Lord, Alas for the day! for the day of the Lord is at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty shall it come. (Joel 1:14-15)

The answer is to get serious again. When fasting becomes commonplace, it begins to feel unnecessary. We begin to allow it to take a backseat to other things. It becomes the “extra” discipline when we have time, or when we feel better, or when things slow down. If you’ve lived very long, you know those times rarely come. 

The Lord reminded me of what I already knew. I must make time for fasting. I must get a fresh determination to live a fasted lifestyle. The original reasons I started on this fasting journey haven’t changed. The need is even greater than before, and will continue to become greater until Jesus returns. 

The prophet Joel commanded the people of God, “Sanctify ye a fast.” The word SANCTIFY means to appoint, consecrate, purify, dedicate or hallow.

Not just any old fast will do. Not eating to prove that we can do without is a level of commitment, but being committed is only one element of our fasting journey. Commitment alone becomes stale over time. 

We must pray for a fresh zeal. We must remind ourselves of the spiritual warfare our consistent fasting is undergirding. We must sanctify our fast. What has become stale, must be brought to the forefront of our consciousness once again. We must remind ourselves why we are on this fasting journey. Fasting controls self. Self controls flesh. Flesh controls emotions. Emotions control actions. Actions control eternal destiny.

Bring your fasting journey up close once again so that you can see it. Look closely. Be honest about what you see. Has it become a bit unkempt? Pushed to the side like a pet once begged for, but now forgotten. Another task to check off the to do list? If this sounds familiar, it’s time to sanctify our fast.

HOW DO I SANCTIFY MY FAST?

1. Appoint a certain time to fast. One meal a day? One day a week?Ask the Lord to show you what He desires from you, and then appoint that fasting schedule “as unto the Lord.” Make it a sacred appointment once again. Tighten back up the fasting hours you have allowed to get lax.

2. Consecrate your fast. It’s not just going without eating. It’s a specific time set apart unto the Lord. It’s so that His will can be achieved, beginning in your life, then in your loved ones’ lives and ultimately flowing out into all the earth.

3. Purify your fast. Make it clean. Take inventory and purge your mind and life of things contrary to God’s word and will. Be mindful and honest about thoughts, feelings and behaviors that have crept in. Determine to focus your mind on holy purposes and pursuits. Also make a fresh commitment to clean up your eating habits during your eating windows. Junk in equals junk out. The cleaner you eat during your allowed time of eating, the easier and more rewarding fasting will be physically and emotionally.

4. Dedicate your fast unto the Lord. Make sure it continues to be the Lord’s Fast, and not yours for your own pleasure. Dedicate this time away from eating as belonging to God. You are willingly giving it to Him. How does He want you to fill that time? If we choose to fill up on worldly entertainment instead of food, is it truly a fast dedicated to the Lord?

5. Hallow your fast. Whether your fasting schedule is one meal a week or a twenty-one day water only fast, remind yourself it is a holy endeavor, and not to be taken lightly. Purpose to focus your fasting time to think on our Holy God, His Holy Word and His Holy Presence. Give yourself to meditating on passages of scripture, and then applying what you study. Find ways to be obedient to the Word you are consuming, so that it is relevant in your daily life.

MAKE A FRESH COMMITMENT.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline and a tool for a closer and more productive walk with God. Like any tool, however, it is only beneficial if it is used. Let’s pull it out from the dark corner where we’ve had it stored, dust it off and put it to use once again.

With Love & Prayer,

-Pat 

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