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The Healing Power of Hope in Times of Delay

The Essence of Proverbs 13:12 The book of Proverbs, a wellspring of wisdom, presents us with a poignant truth: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” This proverbial saying resonates deeply, reflecting the human experience of disappointment and the profound impact of delayed gratification or unfulfilled desires. But what does it truly mean, and how can we navigate life when hope seems distant?

The Weight of Waiting At the heart of this proverb is the raw reality of anticipation. Whether it’s awaiting the fulfillment of a promise, a dream, or an answer to prayer, the act of waiting often comes with emotional and spiritual baggage. As time goes on, the weight can become heavier, leading to feelings of discouragement, disillusionment, and even despair.

Hope in the Biblical Context in the Bible, hope isn’t just a fleeting feeling or wishful thinking. It’s an anchored trust in God’s promises, rooted in His unchanging character and faithfulness. While the world around us might be shaky and uncertain, hope in God remains steadfast, providing a foundation upon which we can stand.

Navigating the Seasons of Deferred Hope

Stay Rooted in God’s Promises: Even when circumstances seem bleak, God’s promises are a beacon of light. Dive into the scriptures, reminding yourself of His faithfulness and the testimonies of those who held onto hope before you. Remember, God is not a man that He would lie, or the son of man that He would change His mind. All of His promise are yes and amen in Christ Jesus. “Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Colossian 2:6
Seek Community: Sharing our struggles, fears, and disappointments with trusted friends or community members can bring solace. They can offer prayer, support, and perspective in trying times. If you’ve found yourself falling away from attending church maybe it’s time to return to the family of God, your family, if you are a believer, where “every joint supplies as each part does it work in love.” God has designed us to thrive in Christ-center community and to wither if we stop living in Christ-center community. Ephesians 6:11-16
Practice Patience: Patience, though challenging, is a fruit of the Spirit. Cultivating patience means acknowledging God’s sovereignty and trusting in His perfect timing. Remember, Abraham, the father of faith, was promised something from God that took twenty-five years to manifest in his life. There were many ups and downs, yet he remained steadfast in his hope in God that He would do what He said He would do, no matter what he had to face on his journey there. Against all hope, in hope he believed, and some became what God promised him. ‘Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that in his own strength he could not bring to pass the promises of God himself…yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.’ Romans 4:18-21

The Renewal of Hope But the proverb doesn’t end in despair. The second half of Proverbs 13:12 says, “but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” It’s a beautiful image of restoration and revival. When the season of waiting ends, and hope is realized, it becomes a source of rejuvenation, like a tree that brings forth life and sustenance. This is what happened with Abraham and to all of God’s people whose hope is in the Lord.

Hope Does Not Put to Shame: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” Romans 5:1-5 It is the sufferings that we go through as we wait that makes what we hope for so much sweeter when it is made manifest in our life by our Sovereign, Loving, Faithful God.

A Promise from the Lord for Those Whose Hope is Place in Him: “Do you not know or have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not grow tired or weary, and no one can fathom His understanding. He provides strength to the weary and boosts the power of the weak. Even the young become tired and weary, and young men can stumble and fall. However, those who place their hope in the Lord will find their strength renewed. They will rise and soar like eagles, run without becoming weary, and walk without feeling faint.” Isaiah 40:28-31

In Closing: The Journey of Hope Every individual will face moments where hope feels distant, where the heart feels the pangs of sickness due to deferred dreams or aspirations. Yet, grounded in Biblical truth, we are reminded that our hope is not in the shifting sands of circumstances but in the rock-solid promises of God. And in His time, that hope will blossom into a tree of life, bringing healing, joy, and fulfillment.

GLM

The Evolution of Christianity: From a Relationship, to a Religion to Enterprise…

There is a saying that contains an important insight: “In Jerusalem, Christianity became a religion. In Greece, it became a philosophy. In Rome, it became an institution. In Britain, it became a tradition, and in America, it became an enterprise.” Richard Halverson, a former chaplain of the United States Senate.

In Jerusalem: Christianity as a Religion

Jerusalem is where the journey of Christianity began. It was in this city that Jesus carried out his ministry, was crucified, and was resurrected. Here, Christianity was not just a set of beliefs but an intimate connection with God. The early followers, or the first church, were a community deeply rooted in faith, prayer, and the teachings of Jesus. The church met in houses, and would come together in the colonnades to have public meetings and others feared coming among them because of the fear of the Lord was upon the Church. Acts 5:1, Acts 8:3

In Greece: Christianity as a Philosophy

When Christianity reached the shores of Greece, it found a society deeply rooted in intellectual discourse and philosophy. Thinkers like Plato and Aristotle had already established a platform for philosophical debates. The Apostle Paul, in his address at the Areopagus in Athens, presents Christian beliefs in a philosophical context. Over time, Christianity and Greek philosophy intermingled, leading to interpretations of faith through the lens of reason and logic.

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” Colossians 2:8

For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. … But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.” 1 Corinthians 1:19-21, 27-29

In Rome: Christianity as an Institution

The growth of Christianity in Rome was noteworthy. Starting with persecuted believers who secretly met in catacombs, the faith blossomed into the state religion under Emperor Constantine. As Christianity spread, the church in Rome, propelled by Constantine’s open embrace of the faith and his endorsement of religious structures, recognized the need for more organized systems. Consequently, the church transitioned into an institution with a well-defined hierarchy, doctrines, and liturgical practices. This shift in structure pulled the church away from its foundational relational essence, prioritizing man-made establishments over the spiritual family’s core concept. It marked a significant turn from the church as “God’s Building” to “man’s buildings,” structures crafted by human hands. This evolution saw the emergence of the papacy and the Vatican’s foundation, deeply rooted in Rome’s institutionalization of the faith.

However, humanity, with its inherent frailties, often succumbs to worldly temptations. After enduring decades of rejection, persecution, and a litany of injustices – including being ostracized, marginalized, shunned, and victimized – it’s easy for one to seek refuge under a seemingly benevolent government’s wing. This governmental embrace can offer an enticing illusion of legitimacy, acceptance, and cultural integration, potentially alleviating past sufferings. This man-made attempt to halt the adversities Christ warned believers about – of being like lambs in a world of wolves, destined for persecution and injustice – often comes at a cost. Thinking institutions and worldly acceptance will prevent persecution of the church.

Yet, we’re still faced with the truth Jesus Himself told us, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues. On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. Truly I tell you, you will not finish going through the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.

“The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for students to be like their teachers, and servants like their masters. If the head of the house has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of his household!

“So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:16-28

Institutionalization often carries the risk of the entity becoming more protective of its own existence than the principles or values that originally birthed it. This phenomenon, almost inevitable in its occurrence, sees the institution prioritize its survival and maintenance over its founding ideals. The Church in Rome provides a telling example of this. Initially founded on the tenets of faith, love, and community, as it grew and became institutionalized, its primary focus seemed to shift towards preserving its newfound status and structures. Consequently, the church’s original mission was overshadowed by its drive to uphold and defend the institution itself.

Ironically, once institutionalized, the church itself became an oppressor. As evidenced in the 12th century, the church, particularly the Roman Catholic Institutionalize Church, engaged in a horrifying chapter of history known as the Inquisition. Spanning roughly 350 years, this grim period saw the church torture countless individuals, coercing them into pledging allegiance to their institution. The Inquisition had various branches, including the Medieval, Spanish, Portuguese, and Roman Inquisitions. It took John Wycliffe, William Tyndale and Martin Luther to break out of this institution by making the word of God available once again to all mankind. It was John Wycliffe, whose remains were exhumed from their burial place in Lutterworth, England, burned, and then the ashes were thrown into the River Swift which flows through Lutterworth by the institution. William Tyndale was captured, found guilty of heresy, and executed by strangulation, followed by burning at the stake by the institution. It was also Martin Luther who broke free from this institution, or better said, was excommunicated from the institution by the institution itself, because of his bold stand for God’s truth, which paved the way for the freedom the world has experienced up to now, because of adherence to the full word and ways of God, through the authority of scripture.

No More Bosting About Human Leaders, or Structures

“Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?

For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not mere human beings? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task.

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.

So, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.

The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.

For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.

By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.

If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.

Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is sacred, and you together are that temple.

Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.”

So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.” 1 Corinthians 3:1-23

In Britain: Christianity as a Tradition

By the time Christianity reached Britain, it had undergone numerous transformations. Here, it intertwined with local Celtic practices and traditions. Over the centuries, events like the Synod of Whitby solidified Roman practices, but local traditions persisted. Christianity became deeply embedded in British culture, shaping festivals, art, and even governance. It wasn’t just a faith; it was a way of life handed down through generations.

“Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that.” Jesus Mark 7:13

In America: Christianity as an Enterprise

The birth of the United States was based on the principles of freedom, including religious freedom. This allowed for a plethora of denominations and interpretations of Christianity. Over time, with the rise of televangelism and the mega-church movement, parts of Christianity took on an entrepreneurial spirit. The faith was, in some sectors, marketed, and commercialized, aligning it with the American spirit of enterprise and innovation.

Returning to God’s Original Intent: A Family United by Love

While Christianity’s journey across continents and epochs has seen many interpretations and transformations, its core remains unchanged. The church, as envisioned by God, is a family – a body where Jesus is the head, and every believer is a part. At its heart, Christianity is about the love of God, exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus. As believers, our calling is to return to this original intent, to be a community bound not by rituals, philosophies, institutions, traditions, or enterprises, but by unconditional love.

When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” John 2:13-16

This is My Family: Jesus

As Jesus was meeting with His Building, His Church, in a house, He clarified for all of us that we are family, we are God’s family, we are brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers in Christ Jesus, and Jesus, our Elder Brother and Lord is the head of the family and Father God is our Father.

“While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.’ He replied to him, ‘Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?’ Pointing to his disciples, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.'”

Jesus didn’t say ‘Here is my religion, here is my philosophy, here is my institution, here is my tradition, or here is my enterprise.’ No, He said, ‘Here is My Family!’ – who are “The Building of God.” He didn’t say whoever does the will of My Father is my philosophy, institution, tradition, or enterprise, no, He said they are family!

This scripture underscores the idea that spiritual family, based on faith and obedience to the will of God, is binding and meaningful, actually more binding and lasting than biological family. Jesus emphasizes the importance of spiritual relationships within the community of believers.

Removing Everything that Hinders Love: Religion, Philosophy, Institution, Tradition, or Enterprise

Jesus commanded us, as His family saying, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

“Put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Colossians 3:14b

The church is family, God’s family, of which Jesus is the Head, God is our Father, and both rule over the church by Holy Spirit.

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Our prayer should be “Dear Lord, help me to love You and Your church as my family, as brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. Remove everything in me that hinders love in my life and the life of Your church. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead me to be a part of the Family of God You intended me and us to be so that the world will see it and know, supernaturally, by Your Spirit, that they are loved as much as the Father loves You Jesus.” John 17:23

God’s Glorious Church, Jesus’ Bride

Throughout the many seasons of the incredible journey that the Church has embarked upon since its wondrous inception, all thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who offered the ultimate sacrifice for its birth and existence, it remains unequivocally His Church. Amid most every congregation, there are those who are the remnant who embody the essence of “The Church, The Building” of God, a reality that becomes evident as we are shown into the prophetic revelations within the Letters to the Churches in the Book of Revelation. My affection for the Church knows no boundaries, irrespective of the varied locations it may gather. It stands as the very Body of Christ, an exquisite bride, a divine body of saints, and God’s sacred field. I cherish the moments spent in communion with fellow believers on this earthly part of our journey, eagerly anticipating the eternal fellowship where we shall gather to worship our Lord, Savior, and Father God in an unending era of holiness, divine splendor, and atmosphere filled with His glory.

Rick Joyner, of MorningStar Ministries, writes, consider the following important barometers of spiritual health for a body of believers:

Do we have the Lord’s manifest presence? What good is the most glorious temple if the Lord is not in it? If the Lord is in the temple, people will care much more about the Lord than the temple itself, even if it is a great one. Do people leave our gatherings having been drawn closer to the Lord or to the temple, to a particular truth or person, or to something else that may be from God but notGod. It is not wrong for people to be drawn to other things, but nothing should eclipse our devotion to the Lord.
Are people being drawn to the Lord on all levels? In a healthy body that is abiding in the Vine, fruit should be sprouting and maturing, new believers should be born again regularly, and all should be maturing in their faith, calling, and relationship to God.
Are the members equipped to do the work of the ministry? Are a few doing all the ministry and the rest only spectating? That is not operating according to the Ephesians 4 model.
Are the members being built together as living stones into the temple of the Lord? (see I Peter 2:5) Most church bodies are more like piles of living stones than a house in which the Lord can dwell. If they are not joined together, they can easily be lost or stolen. However, if they have been properly joined, like cemented stones, they will be difficult to separate.
Are the people growing in their love for the Lord? The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing, and this is the “main thing” for which we were created. To love God and to bring Him pleasure are the two main reasons for which we were created; therefore, these are the “main things” that determine our success as human beings.
Is our love for one another growing? Biology teaches us that when any living thing stops growing, it starts dying. After our love for God, our love for one another is the second most important thing for which we were created.
Do we love the truth? We may want the truth for many reasons other than love (fear, ambition, etc.). However, it is not those who have the truth who will not be deceived in the end times, but those who have “the love of the truth” (see II Thessalonians 2:10).

Other important things may be added, but it’s best not to get too complicated. When operating in alignment with scripture as God’s church, we need to examine ourselves from time to time—though not too often due to our tendency to focus on ourselves—to see if we are in the faith with regard to being a healthy body of believers, i.e., the Church.

10 Things We Learned:

Christianity began in Jerusalem as a deeply personal relationship with God.
When it spread to Greece, Christianity merged with prevailing philosophical concepts.
Rome saw Christianity’s evolution from a persecuted faith to an institutionalized religion.
This institutionalization in Rome sometimes distanced the church from its foundational teachings.
During certain eras, the church became an oppressor, with the Inquisition being a notable example.
In Britain, Christianity adapted and merged with local traditions.
The United States, with its principle of religious freedom, saw a rise in various Christian denominations.
In the US, parts of Christianity adopted a commercial approach, seen in televangelism and mega-churches.
At its heart, Christianity is about God’s love and the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing spiritual relationships over biological ties.
God’s true intent of His church is family, His Family who is to embody love and unity, away from external debates and commercial interests.

From Country Star to Spiritual Guide Discovering Hope in the Midst of Desolation and Grief

A Devastating Night:

On June 4th, 2019, Granger Smith, the iconic country music singer, was immersed in familial bliss, spending quality time with his children on the brink of his appearance at the CMT Music Awards in Nashville. However, this picture-perfect evening was marred by an unforeseen tragedy. Amidst the laughter and joy, his youngest son, River, met an untimely demise in their family pool. This harrowing incident left Granger grappling with boundless sorrow, guilt, and anguish.

The Descent into Darkness:

The aftermath of River’s death was a tumultuous period for Granger. The haunting imagery of that dreadful evening relentlessly tormented him. But external torment was no less; the world became a hostile place as blame and critique concerning the accident came flooding in. Every performance, every appearance seemed like a charade. Beneath the façade of the country star lay a father, shattered and broken.

From Tragedy to Redemption: Granger Smith’s New Path, Glenn Beck Interview

The Divine Intervention:

Yet, in the abyss of his sorrow, Granger encountered an unexpected ray of hope. On a solitary night in his tour bus, Granger felt the comforting embrace of Jesus, guiding him out of his despair and shedding light on a path of spiritual enlightenment. This profound experience revealed several universal truths to Granger:

God is the eternal source of our joys and sorrows.
Every pain we endure has a divine purpose.
Surrendering to God’s will paves the way for healing.
In our utmost vulnerability, God bestows upon us peace, hope, and unconditional love.
It’s the connection to a higher power that grants us the fortitude to rise above our sorrows.

Embracing a New Purpose:

In the face of life’s unpredictable twists and turns, Granger Smith has emerged as an epitome of resilience and faith. After gracing the music industry for over two decades with his award-winning compositions, 2023 marks a significant transition. With his final tour, “Like A River,” Granger is trading the spotlight for spiritual pursuits. Set to release his poignant memoir “Like a River: Finding the Faith and Strength to Move Forward After Loss and Heartache,” Granger is diving deep into the realm of ministry, further amplifying his commitment to faith.

Granger Smith:

Beyond the Music: Granger Smith is not just a music maestro. His journey spans over 24 prolific years in the music realm, with a massive fanbase termed the Yee Yee Nation. With ten studio albums, numerous chart-toppers, and a reach exceeding twelve million across social media platforms, Granger’s legacy in the music industry is unassailable. But beyond music, he’s a passionate speaker, actor, author, and a beacon of hope for many. His podcasts, touching upon faith, family, and restoration, resonate with his unwavering Christian principles. Granger, along with his wife Amber and their children, is based north of Austin, Texas, embodying a tale of grit, grace, and unwavering faith.

Listen to Chapter 4 of Granger Smith’s Book “Like A River” Now

HarperAudio US · LIKE A RIVER by Granger Smith | Chapter 4

10 Things We Learn:

Granger Smith is a well-established country music artist with a career spanning over two decades.
On June 4th, 2019, Granger faced the heartbreaking loss of his youngest son, River.
The subsequent period saw Granger battling severe emotional turmoil and public critique.
Amidst his deepest despair, Granger experienced a spiritual revelation that profoundly impacted his outlook.
He believes in the divine purpose behind every joy and sorrow in life.
Surrendering to God’s will can pave the way for healing and peace.
Granger decided to redirect his path in 2023, trading his music career for spiritual pursuits.
He is set to release a memoir titled “Like a River: Finding the Faith and Strength to Move Forward After Loss and Heartache.”
Beyond music, Granger is a speaker, actor, author, and hosts his own podcast where he discusses matters of faith, family, and more.
Granger’s story emphasizes the importance of connection to a higher power for strength and perseverance.

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Featured Image: Granger Smith | Facebook

Faith GLM Holy Spirit Vine Seminars

The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Church

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“The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” John 14:26 (NIV) Jesus

The Counselor Among Us

Within the realms of our spiritual journey, the Holy Spirit serves as our counselor, providing guidance and insight as denoted in John 14:26.

A Boundless Teacher

The Holy Spirit takes on the role of an educator, teaching us not just selective truths but all things, making the wisdom of God accessible to us (John 14:26).

A Reminder of Christ’s Words

Beyond teaching, the Spirit is a gentle reminder, constantly bringing to mind the teachings of Jesus, ensuring we don’t drift away from them (John 14:26).

The Spirit’s Voice: Power and Clarity

Whether we’re confronting oppressions or sharing the Gospel, the Holy Spirit equips us with the right words, discernment, and strength, allowing us to speak with authority and love (Luke 12:12; Mark 13:11; Matthew 12:28).

“You can lose your mind trying to explain the Trinity,
but if you deny the Trinity, you can lose your salvation.”
Mike Bickle, International House of Prayer, Kansas City, MO

Guided in Righteousness, Peace, and Joy

In our pursuit of righteousness, peace, and joy, the Holy Spirit is our ever-present help, steering our hearts towards divine truths (Romans 14:17).

A Direct Link to God’s Heart

Deep spiritual truths, discernment between right and wrong spirits, and understanding God’s will – these are all made known to us by the Holy Spirit, who knows the very thoughts of God (I Corinthians 2:11; I John 4:2).

Encountering the Spirit in Worship

Our worship finds new depths under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, allowing us to connect more profoundly with God (Philippians 3:3).

Empowerment for Service

From appointing overseers in the church to enabling miraculous gifts like speaking in tongues and prophecy, the Holy Spirit takes the lead, ensuring the church is equipped for every good work (Acts 20:28; Acts 19:2,6).

A Beacon in Times of Danger

Alerting us to dangers, confirming directions, or even preventing certain actions – the Holy Spirit’s role is protective, ensuring we walk in God’s perfect will (Acts 20:23; Acts 16:6).

A Testament to God’s Acceptance

When the Holy Spirit indwells someone, it’s a divine testament that God has accepted them, bridging the gap between divinity and humanity (Acts 15:8).

A Call to Caution: Holy Spirit is “Holy,” it’s Vital He is Honored

While the Holy Spirit offers guidance and power, it’s essential to recognize our role in this relationship. The Spirit can be resisted, and speaking against His works can lead to severe consequences (Acts 7:51; Mark 3:28).

Immersed in the Trinity

The Holy Spirit is not a standalone entity. He is part of the divine Trinity, and believers are baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, signaling a holistic immersion in God’s essence (Matthew 28:19).

Courtesy of Willyam Bradberry/shutterstock.com

Greg Lancaster, VFNtv · The Role Of The Holy Spirit

While in an abiding relationship with Jesus Christ we can count on the Holy Spirit to be all we’ll need to BE THE CHURCH:

Jesus told us

“The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” John 14:26 (NIV)

1. The Holy Spirit is our counselor, John 14:26.
2. The Holy Spirit teachings us ALL THINGS, John 14:26.
3. The Holy Spirit will teach us what to say at the very time we’ll need to say a certain thing, Luke 12:12; Mark 13:11.
4. The Holy Spirit reminds us of everything Jesus said, John 14:26.
5. The Holy Spirit enables us to hear the voice of God, Matthew 3:16-4:1.
6. The Holy Spirit leads us, Matthew 4:1.
7. The Holy Spirit gives us power to deal with demonic oppressions, Matthew 12:28.
8. The Holy Spirit will control us if we allow Him to lead us, Romans 8:9,14.
9. The Holy Spirit knows what God is thinking, I Corinthians 2:11.
10. The Holy Spirit can be grieved by our actions and words towards others, Ephesians 4:29-30.
11. The Holy Spirit leads us in worship, Philippians 3:3.
12. The Holy Spirit enables us to discern the right and wrong spirits, even those who are or are not believers, I John 4:2.
13. The Holy Spirit convicts’ people of sin, John 17:7-11; I Thessalonians 1:4-5.
14. The Holy Spirit convicts’ people of righteousness, John 17:7-11.
15. The Holy Spirit convicts’ people of judgment, John 17:7-11.
16. The Holy Spirit can pray what we need or needs to be prayed at the time since He knows the thoughts and heart of God, Jude 1:20.
17. They Holy Spirit leads prophesy, II Peter 1:21.
18. The Holy Spirit gives the power to preach, I Peter 1:12.
19. The Holy Spirit testifies to us the things of God, Hebrews 10:15.
20. The Holy Spirit’s gifts are distributed by God’s will, Hebrews 2:4.
21. The Holy Spirit washed us and will wash others for rebirth and renewal when God saved us or when He saves others, Titus 3:5.
22. The Holy Spirit guards God in us, II Timothy 1:14.
23. The Holy Spirit is in believers, Luke 17:20-21; I Corinthians 6:19.
24. The Holy Spirit produces Righteousness, Peace and Joy in our life’s, Romans 14:17.
25. The Holy Spirit works with our conscience to guide us through promptings, confirmations and directions, Romans 9:1.
26. The Holy Spirit is the conduit for God’s love for us and to us, Romans 5:5.
27. The Holy Spirit has been given to us as a gift from God, Romans 5:5; Luke 11:13; Acts 2:23.
28. The Holy Spirit will identify and make individuals overseers and shepherds, it is only our responsibility to discern and recognize what He has already done, Acts 20:28.
29. The Holy Spirit will warn us of possible danger, Acts 20:23.
30. The Holy Spirit may come upon someone when we lay our hands on them and they may speak in other languages/tongues and prophesy, Acts 19:2,6.
31. The Holy Spirit will prevent us from going places or doing certain things (if we discern His promptings), Acts 16:6.
32. The Holy Spirit will give peace and confirmations when it comes to knowing what instructions and directions to give to the church, or a believer even if it’s a new event/happening that has never occurred in the church, Acts 15:28.
33. When the Holy Spirit is in someone’s life and heart it shows us that God has accepted them, Acts 15:8.
34. The Holy Spirit will tell you who to set apart for a certain work when taking the attitude of worship and seeking God’s direction through fasting and prayer, Acts 13:2-4.
35. The Holy Spirit may even choose to fill believing individuals while we are speaking, teaching, signing, or sharing God’s word, Acts 11:15-16.
36. The Holy Spirit empowers us to go around doing good and healing all that is oppressed by the devil, Acts 10:37-38.
37. The Holy Spirit will strengthen, encourage, and give peace to a church body of believers, Acts 9:31.
38. The Holy Spirit can be resisted. He moves by permission, or by the persons desire to have him move in their life or situation, Acts 7:51.
39. When a person is filled (or baptized) with the Holy Spirit they may begin to speak in other languages/tongues if/as the Holy Spirit enable them and they don’t resist Him, Acts 2:4; Acts 7:51.
40. The Holy Spirit gives us power to witness, i.e., share about Christ Jesus and what He’s done and is doing in our lives, Acts 1:7-8.
41. The Holy Spirit was imparted once on record though breath, by Jesus, John 20:22.
42. Speaking against the Holy Spirit or His works can have eternal fatal consequences, Mark 3:28.
43. When someone is baptized, they are to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son and the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19.

MORE AND MORE AND MORE!

GLM

The Therapeutic Power of God’s Presence: Stories of Healing and Transformation – Miracle as Veteran’s Missing Hand Grows Back in Front of Him, Pastor John Kilpatrick

Creating an Atmosphere of Glory

“The presence of God is therapeutic. It’s the most therapeutic atmosphere you can be in. Rest like I can’t begin to describe. Rest for the soul. Rest in your body. And you just don’t wanna leave.” Kilpatrick says.

In the realm of spirituality, the presence of God is more than just a concept; it’s an atmosphere that can be felt, experienced, and transformed. Pastor John Kilpatrick’s words resonate powerfully as he shares insights into the tangible impact of God’s presence. “God’s presence, I think, is an atmosphere,” he begins, “It’s an atmosphere that’s created. You want it, you ask for it, you talk about it.” Kilpatrick emphasizes the power of spoken words in influencing the environment around us. Just as we can speak fear or lack into existence, speaking of God’s glory and presence can usher in God’s glory presence.

From Fear to Faith: Impact of Spoken Words

In this age of uncertainties, Kilpatrick draws attention to the significance of our words. “Whatever you talk about will come,” he asserts. If fear is given a voice, it takes root; if lack is emphasized, it becomes a reality. Kilpatrick’s teaching encourages a shift in perspective towards speaking faith, healing, and the presence of God. It’s a call to create an atmosphere where God’s glory can manifest through our declarations and beliefs.

Divine Healings and Manifestations in Worship

Kilpatrick’s personal experiences during the Brownsville Revival shed light on the tangible manifestations of God’s presence. He recounts moments when worship was accompanied by healing encounters. “When God would move in to heal, you could feel heat come in the building,” he shares. Kilpatrick narrates a remarkable incident where a Vietnam vet’s hand, wounded in action, began to heal supernaturally during worship. God created, “knit his hand back together,” before their very eyes. It was so natural, yet also supernatural. Such healings, Kilpatrick emphasizes, are normal when God’s glory is present, reminding us of the supernatural possibilities within reach.

“The Blood: God’s detergent for man’s sin

The Anointing: God’s authorization to do the works of ministry in the earth.

The Presence of God: Is the weighty, manifest Kabod of God, the manifestation of His presence.”

Beyond the Ordinary: Supernatural Encounters and Midnight Miracles

As the article delves deeper, Kilpatrick unveils the therapeutic aspect of God’s presence. “For me personally, yes, it’s powerful. Yes, it’s awesome. Yes, there’s healings,” he explains, “But it’s therapeutic.” He paints a picture of rest for the soul, a profound sense of well-being and tranquility that comes with encountering God’s glory. Kilpatrick draws parallels between the midnight hour and powerful encounters, echoing the significance of seeking God with all our hearts.

Greg Lancaster, VFNtv · Therapeutic Power Of God’s Presence Stories Of Healing And Transformation, Pastor John Kilpatrick

Conclusion

Pastor John Kilpatrick’s words resonate as an invitation to experience the transformative power of God’s presence. His testimonies of healing, restoration, and encounters with the divine presence challenge us to speak faith, step beyond fear, and embrace the restorative atmosphere that comes with encountering God. Kilpatrick’s experiences underscore the truth that God’s glory is not confined to distant lands; it is manifesting powerfully in places like America and within our own hearts and churches. As we cultivate an atmosphere of glory, we can witness the miraculous unfold and lives transformed through encounters with the therapeutic, life-giving presence of God.

In the end, it is not just about a building, but about embracing God’s presence which manifests a platform to experience God’s glory in profound ways. Kilpatrick’s teachings remind us of the essential truth that God’s presence is an invitation to encounter the miraculous and experience transformation beyond our wildest imagination.

GLM Prophecy Prophecy for America Prophecy for the World Prophetic Dreams Prophetic Words from Oct 2016 to Today

Prophecy: Outpouring of The Holy Spirit, Glory Will Fill The Earth, It Feels Like The Former And Latter Rain Is Upon Us

Prophecy “I believe this is a sign for the greatest outpouring of the Holy Spirit is around the corner and the set for the glory of God filling the earth like we’ve never seen date is set…the flood of the Holy Spirit is coming and there’s going to be a shaking at the same time…It feels like the former and the latter rain is upon us.” Chris Reed, shared August 22, 2023

Watch the full word shared by Chris Reed.

Church Church Community Faith Mountain GLM Original Intent of the Church Spiritual Growth Vine Seminars

God’s Building vs. Man’s Buildings: What does it mean to “build a church”?

Misconception: A “Church” Building vs. “Man’s Building” in Police Encounter

When I was in law enforcement, our shift needed to practice some arrest techniques and training. So, as we were a tactical unit on patrol, we saw a building where church meetings were held and pulled over to train on the open property. I have no doubt they referred to this building as “their church,” as you’ll soon find out. Later, we discovered it was actually a “man’s building.” As we began training, the man who was watching over his “church” building came running towards us – the local law enforcement – telling us that we had to leave. He said we couldn’t conduct our training on the “church” property because it was too risky for them if they saw someone getting hurt. It’s important to note that the building was empty and not in use at that time. The man had no understanding that we were all building material for God’s building. We were available for him to share the Gospel with us and to invite Jesus Christ into our hearts so that we could become part of the building of God. However, he chose “man’s building” over “God’s Building” and chased us away – “humans” who are created in the image and likeness of God. Christ died for us so that we could be saved. This was all done to protect a man-made building. I Corinthians 3:9, 3:16-17, Ephesians 2:19-22, Colossians 1:22-23, Galatians 3:28, I Peter 2:9, Genesis 1:26-27

Now, imagine with me that if this “Christian” had known he was the building of God, and that God wanted him to seek and save those who are lost so that they could become part of the building of God, he wouldn’t have seen it as a burden when someone was at “his building.” Instead, he would have considered it a blessing and would have joined and celebrated our presence. He would have asked if we needed something to drink, or if there was anything he could do to help us. He might have thought about thanking us for protecting him, his family and community. He would have shared with us what Jesus died to make known to us: His love, forgiveness, and His desire for us to become His Building. Unfortunately, this man ran the opportunity for a harvest away and refused to allow it on “his property.” A builder would say, “You just ran my lumber off, now, how can I build?”

Man’s Buildings

Numerous schemes and “plans” are devised by men to “build” God’s church. However, the word of God unequivocally tells us that God’s building, His temple, is not constructed by human hands. The only temple God desires is comprised of those who, through His power, earnestly seek and, by the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, find salvation. It is within your heart that God desires to reside and establish His building, His abiding place.

Therefore, when someone approaches you and expresses a desire to “build a church,” it’s crucial to inquire by asking, “Can you elaborate on what you mean?” Why is this important? Quite often, they are referring to physical elements like bricks, mortar, wood, nails, or the conversion of a previous establishment, perhaps adorned with a cross, and then naming it “the Church.” However, Scripture instructs us that when discussing building the church, the focus should be on building people—strengthening their lives in Christ, aiding them in becoming disciples of Jesus. If you are in search of “building material” for the Building of God, you won’t find it at local stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot. Instead, you will find it at the local community park, your workplace, the marketplace—wherever people gather. This man, mentioned above, who ran the police off his property found building material for the Building of God on his property and ran it away. This is where the building material resides. Acts 17:24-25, I Corinthians 3:16-17, John 4:21-24, 2 Corinthians 5:1, Matthew 28:19-20, Ephesians 2:19-22

If You Build It, They Will Come?

It’s amazing how many people who are called into the ministry make finding a building or building a building their first priority. They have no money, they have no followers, yet all they can think about is “I need a building, a band, a stage, some seats, and a sign…” God delivered them from the debt of their sin, called them to help Him Build His Building, His Church, and instead of doing that, they chose to build their own building and get into debt. Then they get angry with God because of the burden of the building and often end up blaming their choice to build their building on God. Remember this wisdom, it can save you a lot of heartache, “God doesn’t care how much money and time you have invested on building an idol, He just wants it out of your life.”

Oftentimes, individuals fall into the trap of embracing the notion, “If you build it, they will come.” Living and ministering with this perspective, they dedicate their lives to promoting the edifice, the building, they constructed, disregarding God’s building, He built. Rather than fearing the potential loss of souls—God’s Building—they dread the jeopardy of losing “their building” whether next month’s mortgage can be met or if another wing can be adding on to their building. Consequently, they pressure “God’s building” (His people) to toil and cater to “their building.” They instruct “God’s building” that their attention should be directed toward their building. Announcements, often concerning their structure, proliferate. Frequently, discussions revolve around expanding or acquiring new premises for their building.

Building, Success?

Inevitably, the people of God (who constitute His building) begin to gauge success—be it their own or that of their pastor—by man’s building, instead of God’s building, the people. Is it sufficiently grand? Is it overly modest? The inquiries echo: “How many are you running?” The unspoken code for all these queries is, “How many are you accommodating?” Regrettably, due to their fixation on their own structure (man’s building), those entangled in this human-made tradition scarcely acknowledge God’s incredible work of grace, love, and compassion in the lives of His people—as His true Building. Perhaps, they harbor apprehension that if God’s people realize their role as the Building of God, they might forsake them and their building? An intriguing contemplation indeed. Just so you know, “The average United States congregation sees 65 people gather each week, according to the 2020 FACT study.” It’s not what those who promote their building make it out to be.

We’re called to make disciples, which is building on God’s Building of which Jesus is the Cornerstone. God didn’t call His people to build buildings, He called us to build people, which are His building. Matthew 28:19-20, Ephesians 2:19-22, I Corinthians 3:9, I Peter 2:4-5, I Corinthians 12:12-14

The Burden of Buildings

There was this one instance where believers gathered in homes, fostering fellowship as they followed the Lord’s directive to seek and save the lost. Their church experienced growth as a result as God added to their numbers those being saved. Acts 2:47 Over time, the congregation expanded, prompting them to move meetings to two houses due to space constraints in the first one. As the Building of God (comprising the saved individuals) continued to flourish, they extended their reach to more houses, creating a network of house churches.

In due course, a thought emerged collectively: while they cherished the ongoing transformation led by the Lord, they pondered organizing occasional communal gatherings or community-focused events in a dedicated space declaring “Let us build a building.” Astonishingly, five decades have elapsed since that day, and they remain entrenched in that building. Charles Simpson, the one who shared and experienced this, said one day they walked into the building, and they never came out. I’ve been trying to get them out of that building ever since. Curiously, the vibrant growth they witnessed, when the Lord was adding to their numbers daily when their focus wasn’t on constructing a human edifice, has since ceased. Regrettably, man’s buildings are where God’s building often goes to die. Exodus 20:4-6, Exodus 32:1-4

“”Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made by hands, as the prophet says, ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord, or what is the place of my rest? Did not my hand make all these things?'” Acts 7:48-50

You Know It All by Its Fruit, Right?

38% of pastors have thought about quitting full-time ministry in the past year… 4,000 churches closed and 20,000 pastors left the ministry in one year alone. In addition to those staggering realities, 50% of pastors say they would leave the ministry if they had another way of making a living. 50% of pastors feel unable to meet the needs of their job; 70% of pastors say they now have lower self-esteem today than they did when they first started ministry; 80% of pastors believe the pastoral ministry has affected their family negatively.

Here are some revealing statistics about the church and pastors:

1,500 pastors leave the ministry each month due to moral failure, spiritual burnout or contention in their churches.

4,000 new churches begin each year, but over 7,000 churches close.

50% of pastors’ marriages will end in divorce.

80% of pastors and 84% of their spouses feel unqualified and discouraged in their role as pastors.

70% of pastors do not have a close friend, confidant, or mentor.

80% of seminary and Bible school graduates who enter the ministry will leave the ministry within the first five years.

90% of pastors said their seminary or Bible school training did only a fair to poor job preparing them for ministry.

90% of pastors said the hardest thing about ministry is dealing with uncooperative people.

80% of pastors’ spouses feel their spouse is overworked.

80% of pastor’ wives feel left out and unappreciated by the church members.

80% of pastors’ spouses wish their spouse would choose another profession.

70% of pastors constantly fight depression.

40% of pastors polled said they have had an extra-marital affair since beginning their ministry.

80% of adult children of pastors surveyed have had to seek professional help for depression.

Porn and Pastors:

Most pastors (57%) and youth pastors (64%) admit they have struggled with porn, either currently or in the past.
Overall, 21% of youth pastors and 14% of pastors admit they currently struggle with using porn.

About 12% of youth pastors and 5% of pastors say they are addicted to porn

87% of pastors who use porn feel a great sense of shame about it.

Many of these statistical realities, I believe, are caused by making church about our building instead of God’s building, which makes “man’s building” one’s idle and leaves a pastor who God has called to Build His Building frustrated, depressed, judged and measured by the traditions of man and his buildings, which leads him into sin. If a shepherd is not spending time with the sheep, being a shepherd makes no sense, and leads the shepherds, i.e., pastors frustrated, depressed, confused and captive. Isaiah 28:12-13 A true shepherd finds pleasure and meaning in being with the sheep. Is it time to leave man’s buildings for God’s Building? “Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs.” Jonah 2:8 There is a grace awaiting you, I believe, when you stop working on man’s buildings and start loving God by helping and working on His Building. Hebrews 6:10

God never rebuked a pastor (shepherd) for not taking care of a building. He rebuked them for not taking care of His people, i.e., His Building! Jeremiah 23:1-4

American Enterprise

In America, the Church has been turned into an enterprise. Most decisions must be made by the church board, which is how an enterprise is run. According to George Barna, the American Church is paying 1.3 million dollars per baptized believer. Could you imagine Jesus having to pay $1.3 million for each person who chose to follow Him? [Of course, He paid a much higher price with His own life, but I am speaking figuratively. Although every soul is worth a greater value than all the money in the world due to God’s love for mankind and Jesus’ sacrifice, He and the Father paid for each one.]

Due to man’s adherence to traditional practices, the church often fails to effectively utilize the hard-earned funds provided through tithes and offerings, which rightfully belong to the Lord. These funds possess the potential to reach and impact millions of souls. Unfortunately, the emphasis on maintaining and investing in “men’s buildings” leads to limited results, often resulting in the salvation of just one soul costing “man’s traditional buildings” $1.3 Million, for “one baptized believer,” despite the vast possibilities offered by the resources. Matthew 7:15-20

A Family Not a Building

So, what is the pure expression of the Church? Rick Joyner shares about a shift in the Church and how the pure expression of it is family. God’s Building is family! The Church is shifting back to this pure expression, family! Father God gave His Son Jesus Christ, on behalf of His creation so that when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we become sons and daughters of God, family! How do we get back to family? One way to do this is to relate to God as our Father. Jesus shares how we can talk to His Father in Matthew 6:9-10, “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” and those who fellowship with us as our brothers and sisters?

Jesus, “stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” Matthew 12:49-50 That’s how you describe family, which is the Building of God.

Why is all this happening? Could it be because we’ve turned our backs on God’s Building and have made it about man’s buildings? Could it be the reality that things we’ve built in the flesh has become a stumbling block and a heavy burden to us? Could it be you are “making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down?” Mark 7:13, 1 Peter 2:7-8

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I WILL GIVE YOU REST. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For MY YOKE IS EASY AND MY BURDEN IS LIGHT. Matthew 11:28-30

Related:

Jesus Didn’t Die for Your Building, He Died for God’s Building!

I have nothing against man’s buildings. I love their architecture, their beauty, the engineering, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, air conditioning and heading, protection from extreme weather or even gentle rains, but in the end, they are man’s building. I’ve always joked around when talking about God’s Building vs. man’s building, because people take ‘their buildings’ so personally, by saying “I’ve got a good friend who is a building.”

How can someone who was born into a wealthy family, grew up living in the nicest buildings a man can build, with some of the finest foods, and kindness servant, be so miserable, empty, and suicidal? It’s because no matter how nice it all is, it’s “man’s building.” Buildings don’t save people, Jesus does, and then He makes them His building.

You Are the Building of God!

I Corinthians 3:19-15

“For we are co-workers in God’s service; YOU ARE GOD’S FIELD, GOD’S BUILDING. By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames.”

From God’s Building to Man’s Building?

How did we come so far away from building God’s Building [people] upon Jesus Christ, the Chief Cornerstone, to building man’s buildings? From this scripture, not only is the true ‘Building of God’ revealed and the ‘Field of God’ in which God’s Building resides, but we are clearly told that if we build man’s buildings, even with gold, silver, costly stone, wood, hay, or stubble, our work will be revealed for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. This scripture reveals that, “Everyone is “building something,” but in the end, what we built will be tested by fire.

Man’s buildings should be a byproduct of God’s Building. Hence, when it becomes necessary to seek shelter from the elements, look for ‘a place’ for ‘God’s Building’ to gather, always knowing that it’s God’s Building and His presence that is the church, not the place you gather. For where one or two are gathered in Jesus’ name, He rules over them, His Building, as the King and Shepherd He is. Matthew 18:20

Building Con-Fusion

“In Jerusalem, Christianity became a religion. In Greece, it became a philosophy. In Rome, it became an institution. In Britain, it became a tradition, and in America, it became an enterprise.”

When you make man’s building ‘the church,’ don’t be surprised when God’s Building [His People] refuses to or is unable to realize they are God’s Building. Leading them to relinquish all their responsibilities as God’s Building, that which Christ has called them to be and do for Him, over to your building.

It’s been said by some, ‘God spends half of a person’s life trying to get them in the church, the last half of their life trying to get them to go out from the church.’ First of all, God does not spend half of a person’s life trying to get anyone into ‘your building’ – ‘your church.’ He is inviting them to His Building, His Temple, where He dwells. I believe this confusion exists because teachers didn’t teach them ‘for works of service,‘ as clearly stated in the Word of God that plainly says they are the Building of God and how to be the Children of God. Not teaching God’s people, who too, like Jesus, are to be in the Father’s business of seeking and saving those who are lost. ‘From Jesus [the Cornerstone], the whole body [Building of God], joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows, and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Luke 19:10, John 17:17-23, Ephesians 4:11-16, Acts 17:24-28

It seems that traditions of men have fused man’s buildings with God’s Building thereby confusing Jesus’ followers to the point that they have no clue they are the Building of God.

People are Hard To Work With

One of the reason our sin nature turns to working with physical building rather than the spiritual building made up flawed human’s who are saved by grace is people are hard to work with. Everyone has been given their free will by God and have to choose to do what is right. Often their choices seldom fall in harmony with others, hence people are “all over the place.” Yet, it’s people, who are created in the image and likeness of God that Jesus paid the price for so that they can be saved and live with Him forever in eternity. Since God is in love with difficult people, and we are called as part of His Church, His Building, we have to resist the temptation to turn away from working with and on them and start working on “our buildings.”

Acacia Wood and You

I find it interesting that we are the Tabernacle of God, and the shadow of the Tabernacle—Moses’ Tabernacle—that God instructed Moses to use acacia wood for its construction. Romans 1:20, 15:4 Exodus 25:10-28 Acacia wood was used for making the Ark, the Table of Showbread, the Altar of Incense, and various other components of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

Working with acacia wood presents several notable challenges stemming from its inherent hardness. The wood’s substantial hardness can prove formidable when utilizing hand tools or traditional woodworking methods, necessitating the use of exceptionally sharp and robust tools for cutting, shaping, and carving. However, this hardness also means that tools can quickly become dulled in the process, demanding more frequent tool sharpening to maintain effectiveness. Even sanding, a fundamental finishing step, becomes an arduous task due to acacia wood’s resistance to smoothing, contrasting with the ease of working with softer woods. Furthermore, the wood’s dense composition heightens the risk of splits and cracks, particularly if it is not adequately dried before implementation. Compounding these difficulties, certain species of acacia encompass natural resins that can gum up tools and introduce complications during the finishing stages of a project. To summarizes what God used to compare us human’s to, acacia wood, when working with them to make them into a tabernacle for His presence is: hardness, blunting of tools, hard to sand, splits and cracks easy.

Understanding this, you can see why someone says, I’m worn out working on people, I think I’ll just build a building and be done with it. Yet, in the end, at your Christmas Cantata that is still your building, not God’s Building.

Interesting note: The family carved out of wood as the image for this article was carved from acacia wood.

Dwelling With You

“’If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling place with him.” John 10:23

In 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 13-15, we encounter the profound journey of King David’s desire to bring God’s presence into the heart of the nation, into his own home. The Ark of the Covenant, a sacred vessel that embodied God’s presence and covenant, held immense significance. It was not just a relic but a vessel through which God’s glory manifested. David’s yearning to have the Ark in Jerusalem mirrored our longing to have God’s presence dwell within us and our homes, into the true Building of God.

When David attempted to move the Ark initially, tragedy struck. Uzzah’s untimely death reminded us of the sanctity and reverence required when seeking God’s presence. This incident caused David to pause and reflect, leading him to leave the Ark at Obed-Edom’s house. The blessings that overflowed in Obed-Edom’s home were a testament to the tangible impact of God’s presence in a household. This resonates with our aspiration to have God’s presence not only in large gatherings of the church but also intimately within our homes and hearts.

When man finds out the price for hosting God’s presence he often decides to set “his church” up down the street, while leaving his home empty of God’s presence, just as David did.

David’s jealousy and desire after witnessing the blessings on Obed-Edom’s household mirrored our innate longing for God’s blessings. We often find ourselves drawn to the blessing’s others experience in their relationship with God, yearning for the same. Like David, we must recognize that the blessings come not just from proximity to sacred ark of God’s presence but from the depth of our connection to God as His dwelling place, His Building.

If you think your home is not a place where God’s presence, His Church, can gather, you need to pray again and ask if God has truthfully called you into the ministry. 1 Timothy 3:5

In a parallel sense, just as David’s longing extended beyond a mere building up the street, we are called to recognize that we are God’s temple. We, ourselves, are the dwelling place of His presence, God’s Building, God’s Field. The challenge lies in ensuring that we do not become complacent, content with confining God’s presence to a physical building or occasional religious rituals. Instead, we must mirror David’s determination to learn, sacrifice, and align our hearts with God’s ways to cultivate His presence within us. As the psalmist says, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10).

Are we willing to follow in David’s footsteps in not merely being satisfied with God’s presence being in a building up the street, but actively seeking to make our hearts and homes a place where God’s glory presence dwells? Just as David turned his jealousy, seeing God’s blessing upon Obed-Edom’s house, into fervent pursuit, we can channel our yearning for God’s blessings into a sincere quest for His presence within ourselves and our households. This requires more than a superficial façade; it entails a transformative journey of repentance, dedication, and alignment with God’s will, inviting His blessings to manifest in our lives.

Related:

Show Me Your Glory

Moses, like David, wanted to see and experience the glory presence of God. He cried out to God “Show me your glory.”

Exodus 33:18-23

“Then Moses said, ‘Please show me your glory.’ And he said, ‘I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name ‘The Lord.’ And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. But,’ he said, ‘you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live.’ And the Lord said, ‘Behold, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock, and while my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back, but my face shall not be seen.'” (Exodus 33:18-23, ESV)

In this passage, Moses expresses his desire to see God’s glory. God responds by granting Moses a limited glimpse of His glory by allowing Moses to see His back, but not His face. This passage highlights the awe-inspiring nature of God’s presence and His holiness, which is beyond human comprehension. It also demonstrates God’s willingness to reveal Himself to Moses to a certain extent while acknowledging the limitations of human interaction at that time, before Jesus, with His presence.

That Has All Changed

Now the Jesus has not only become our Lord and Savior, but also the great High Priest in heaven making intercession for us before the Father, we can now boldly enter into God’s presence and have God’s presence enter into us as His Building, i.e., the Temple of God.

‘Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.’ Hebrews 4:14-16

It’s Time to Join the Master Builder

God’s building starts with people, for they are His building material. It is to them we share the love of God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and invite them to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. If they accept Jesus as their Lord, and follow Him, they are then the body of Christ, the building of God. When we help them, the Building of God, God sees that as us helping Him and loving Him. Mark 16:15-20, Hebrews 6:10

Are you ready to go into the Lord’s harvest fields as His ambassadors, making His appeal to them for their very souls and trust God with His Building and Jesus with His leadership in what and where He desires His Building to dwell, and where is Field is to be stablished? Matthew 9:38, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21

Living Stones

“As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” Peter 2:4-5 (ESV)

The Cornerstone of God’s Building

A cornerstone is a foundational stone that is laid at the corner of a building or structure. It serves as a reference point for the alignment of the other stones or bricks that make up the walls. The cornerstone is often inscribed with important information about the building, such as its date of construction, the names of builders or architects, and sometimes even ceremonial or symbolic elements.

“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone…” Ephesians 2:20 (ESV)

“For it stands in Scripture: ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.'” 1 Peter 2:6 (ESV)

Jesus is the cornerstone of God’s Building. Just as a cornerstone holds pivotal importance in building construction, Jesus holds the central and foundational role in the Christian faith. He is the reference point that aligns the structure of God’s Building, as believers, we’re to align our beliefs and values to Jesus as our cornerstone. He is the first born from the dead, the head of the church, the cornerstone of God’s Building, the church. As a cornerstone often bears inscriptions of historical significance, Jesus carries the weight of eternal history, teachings, and principles. He is the unshakable foundation upon which Christianity, the Building of God, is constructed, and He is the strength, stability, and the essential element upon which all else rests. He is the word of God, the word of God Who became flesh. He is the image of the invisible God, King of kings, and Lord of lords. Everything is centered around Him, and everything is being brought up under Him. For He is the ruler of the kings of the earth, kings whose heart He directs like a river. Ephesians 1:10, Colossians 1:18, I Corinthians 15:20, Revelation 1:5, Proverbs 21:1, Daniel 2:12, Job 12:23-25

Jesus, our Cornerstone, “gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. [Notice, it’s the body of Christ that is built up, not “buildings.”]

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows, and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. Ephesians 4:11-16

Related:

Building View vs. A Biblical World View

Many are noticing that the days of yesterday are quickly changing and are no more. George Barna’s book, America at the Crossroads, reveals this very important reality in the Church. So much has changed in the recent years that Barna could only go as far as 10 years and discuss the rapid changes that are happening within those professing to be believers. Note, that these statistics have only grown darker since their recording in 2016. At the onset, ”90% Nine out of ten adults believe in “God””, but as we look closer and closer, we will see this is far from the actual reality within the Church. “Fewer than half of all Americans (45%) contend that Jesus Christ is alive today.

We must become Biblical aware of what is so that we can clearly identify what does not align with, and what contradicts what the Bible teaches. “Most people lean toward believing that the Bible, Koran, and Book of Mormon are simply different expressions of the same spiritual truths.” While at the same time, “Only 1 out of 8 adults consider themselves to be “highly knowledgeable” about the content of the Bible.”

By taking the time to have a lifestyle that incorporates the teachings and ways of the Bible, it significantly effects how we look at the world. This would be classified as having a “Biblical worldview”.

Barna writes, “Those who have a Biblical world view are:

12 Times LESS LIKELY to engage in extramarital sex.

9 Times MORE LIKELY to avoid adult-only material on the internet.

8 Times LESS LIKELY to gamble.

5 Times MORE LIKELY to believe that satan is real, not just a symbol of evil.

5 Times LESS LIKELY to believe the Bible, the Koran and the Book of Mormon are simply different expressions of the same truth.

4 Times MORE LIKELY to reject the idea that a person can reach Heaven through personal goodness or doing good works.

3 Times MORE LIKELY to affirm the holiness of Jesus Christ

3 Times MORE LIKELY to pray for the President.

Could it be that the church, the Building of God, has lost its Biblical Worldview, because man made it about their building instead of God’s Building? Has man only taught God’s people about his building, but not how to be God’s Building in the world today. Have they settled for people just showing up in their building instead of training them up and launching them out? One pastor, who is no longer in ministry today, referred to those who ‘showed up’ in ‘his church’ – as ‘giving units’ meaning people who gave towards ‘his building.’ Is this what religious leaders have turned God’s Building into, “giving units” to pay for “his building?” These are questions to ponder in a world where much of the church looks and acts no differently than the world they claimed to be saved out of, instead of being transformed as we’re so clearly told to be. Romans 12:1-2.

God Forbid

You might assume that I am advocating for people to leave the church and wander aimlessly? God forbid, I am not saying that at all. On the contrary, as Jesus told the religious leaders of his day, you might be rendering God’s word ineffective through your traditions. I’m saying that if you shift from human constructs to God’s design, everyone who claims God as their Lord should celebrate this transition. What I am emphasizing is the need to “be the church” – the “Building of God” – and to take ownership of your responsibility as part of God’s Building, remaining united and engaged, with each believer contributing their effort. A people aren’t defined as a church solely by man-made structures; it’s through God’s building, with Jesus as its head and Chief Cornerstone.

Since, we are going to be held accountable for what Jesus expects from each of us in the Building of God, which scripture clearly tells us we will be, don’t you think it’s about time we start being what Jesus died for us to be, the Building of God, the Light of Christ in the world, the ambassadors of Jesus Christ making His appeal to the lost? Don’t you think it’s time to “Be the Church Building” instead of just going to man’s building? Matthew 25

Mission(s) Possible?

In a world where income disparities among nations are stark, the question of missions and the allocation of resources becomes critical. Contrasting the hourly wages between Nigeria and the United States, where the average American earns $15.00 an hour compared to Nigeria’s $0.60, sheds light on the vast economic differences. As American churches invest heavily in building expenses, upkeep, mortgages, electricity, insurance, and staff salaries, the question arises: Are they truly investing in the heart of God’s kingdom—the people themselves? Scripture refers to believers as “The Building of God,” raising the poignant comparison between man-made structures and the genuine work of nurturing God’s living temple.

Mission(s) ImPossible?

The income disparity between nations is strikingly evident when comparing the average wages. Nigeria’s hourly wage of $0.60 seems meager in contrast to America’s $15.00. Yet, as American churches pour resources into constructing and maintaining elaborate buildings, the human aspect often takes a backseat. With the wages of laborers in mind, it’s essential to reevaluate the allocation of funds. A church’s true foundation lies not in bricks and mortar, but in fostering spiritual growth and genuine community. The contrast between these realities sparks a deeper conversation about where true investment should lie.

Mission(s) Beyond Numbers

The disparities in wages and financial allocations raise questions about the core mission of churches. While American churches may spend substantial amounts on buildings, staff salaries, and other expenses, the true heart of the church lies in its ministry to the community and beyond. Rather than focusing solely on financial investments, the church’s calling is to uplift individuals, nurture spiritual growth, and support global missions. The numbers may paint a picture of financial priorities, but the true mission goes far beyond figures—it’s about impacting lives and making a lasting difference.

In the end, how do you prayerfully feel the Lord will see is choosing our buildings for His offerings instead of His building?

Your Buildings vs. Missions for God’s Building

I strongly recommend prayerfully considering and weighing the prospects of your ministry, whether you are just beginning or a long-time pastor stepping into a completely empty building on a Monday, en route to your pastor’s office. If your weekly schedule consists of one, one-hour service, your building remains empty for approximately 98.8% of each week (166.5 out of 168 hours). These empty hours cost an estimated $481.00 per week, or $24,960.00 per year. This amount could cover a Nigerian’s income for 23 years. In the case of two, two-hour services per week, your building remains unoccupied for about 97.5% of the week (164 out of 168 hours). These empty hours would cost an estimated $474.00 per week, or $24,648.00 per year. This could cover a Nigerian’s income for 20 years. And if you hold three, two-hour services a week, your building would be vacant for roughly 96.1% of the week (161.5 out of 168 hours). These empty hours would cost an estimated $467.00 per week, or $24,284.00 per year. This amount could cover a Nigerian’s income for 20 years.*

Conclusion

Man’s buildings may be impressive, but God’s building is truly magnificent. Constructing and maintaining these structures incurs significant financial expenses, often funded from God’s offerings. Frequently, churches invest substantial physical and monetary resources into these buildings, which could otherwise be directed towards the essential task of cultivating souls—the building materials for God’s eternal structure. Though locating willing participants for God’s building may be challenging, as you will have to stay in the harvest fields, not in your buildings, our investment required pales in comparison to the ultimate cost borne by Jesus Christ for His divine edifice.

Our Co-MISSION: Go Ye,

Did Jesus say, ‘Go ye, into all the world’ and build your buildings, or did He say, “Go ye, into all the world and preach the Gospel to all nations and for those who believe, baptize, and make them disciples of Jesus, ‘living stones for the Building of God, in the Field of God. Mark 16:15-16 Let’s go forth seeking and saving those who are lost in the Lord’s harvest fields, building material, living stones, and help them fit tightly together with other believes, building “THE BUILDING OF GOD!”

* These dollar amounts are based on a 2023 estimate of church building expenses and everything that is involved, considering the current minimum wage of $0.60 per hour in Nigeria.

GLM

Heidi Baker Released Incredible Prophetic Word for America | Called to be an Eagle, not a Chicken

“I want to call you to have wings that soar. You’re not called to be a chicken that hops around with a little flight once in a while. You’re called to soar. You’re called to rise up on eagle’s wings to run and not be weary, to walk and not faint. And I want to take your eyes, and I want to lift them up,” says the Lord. “And I want to give you the kind of vision that an eagle has. And I want to give you power over serpents,” says the Lord. “You’ll be able to dive down like an eagle. And if you would understand how an eagle flies, I’m gonna call you to be able to be snake killers. You’re gonna be able to go straight down, grab the serpent, go straight up, and you’ll fly so high that you’ll suffocate the enemy. Because in the heights, in the heights of my spirit, the enemy has no power, no breath, no air. And I want to take you to higher ground,” says the Lord.

Related:

“I want to take you to a place of fearless love. And though it’ll be the scariest thing, the scariest thing in your life, I’m calling you to fearlessness. And I’m gonna push you, literally push you out of the nest. I’m going to push you out of the nest because you’re not meant to be nesters. You’re meant to soar. You’re meant to see. You’re meant to go. And I want to put my Spirit upon you, even now, and I’m gonna put my destiny in you. And I’m gonna call you. I’m gonna call you to a place where you warn, even warn those who are chirping with no heads. I’m going to call you to a place where you would warn, even warn those who are running around the yard with no heads. I’m the head,” says the Lord. “I’m the head. I’m your head. You’re not meant to be headless chickens who don’t even know when they’re running with no head. You’re meant to soar like eagles. You’re meant to see with eyes that are clear and eyes that are bright and eyes that are full of hope and eyes that know how to defeat the enemy and eyes that know how to see what I’m doing and where I’m doing it.”

“And I’m going to take you to a place of fearlessness, to a place of growth, to a place of strength, to a place of might, to a place of glory. And you’re going to soar so high, and you’re going to call others to soar with me, with me, with me. For it is by My Spirit,” says the Lord, “that you will soar higher than you’ve ever been. And there, in that place, you will learn to soar without flapping. You’ll learn to soar without flapping, without sweat. Because it will be by My Spirit.”

Six Things We Learn:

Embracing fearlessness is integral to one’s spiritual growth and empowerment.
The eagle’s cry serves as a symbolic call to rise above challenges and limitations.
Understanding spiritual warfare enables individuals to conquer obstacles and adversaries.
Acquiring a divine perspective allows for seeing beyond the immediate circumstances.
The message inspires a desire for transformation, renewed vision, and a deeper connection with spiritual purpose.
The American Church is called to be a bold eagle, not a scared, headless chicken, to soar above the troubles and defeat demonic attacks, snakes.

GLM

Divine Wisdom Amidst Crisis: Abigail’s Role in Shaping Destiny

Introduction:

The story of David and Abigail can be found in the First Book of Samuel, chapter 25. It is a moment in history where we can learn from the conflict, wisdom, and redemption that highlights the providence of God in David’s life.

The Encounter with Nabal:

David, the anointed future king of Israel, was on the run from King Saul. While in the wilderness, he and his men provided protection to the shepherds and flocks of a wealthy man named Nabal. When it was time to shear the sheep, David requested provisions from Nabal as a gesture of gratitude. However, Nabal rudely refused, leading David to plan revenge against him and his household.

Abigail’s Intervention:

Upon hearing of her husband’s refusal, Abigail, Nabal’s intelligent and wise wife, took swift action. She gathered a substantial amount of food and supplies and went to meet David on the way. Falling at his feet, she pleaded for mercy and acknowledged her husband’s foolishness. Abigail’s humility and wisdom moved David, preventing him from committing a grave mistake.

Averted Disaster:

Accepting Abigail’s gifts and counsel, David spared Nabal’s household, acknowledging the providence of God in the situation. Abigail’s intervention saved David from shedding innocent blood, and her actions demonstrated the importance of wisdom in resolving conflicts.

Nabal’s Demise:

When Abigail returned home, she found Nabal feasting and drunk. Choosing not to tell him about her encounter until morning, Nabal’s heart failed him upon learning the truth. Around ten days later, the Lord struck Nabal, and he died, highlighting the consequences of his foolishness.

Out of Order: Navigating Divine Hierarchy Amidst Turmoil

Scripture firmly establishes the divine order within marriage and family. It enlightens us about the call to submit to those whom God has anointed to lead His church (Hebrews 13:17), individuals He has appointed for specific roles (Ephesians 4:11-13). This hierarchical structure extends to the intricate fabric of marital dynamics, where the husband assumes the role of the head, mirroring Christ’s leadership in the church, and children are encouraged to yield to their parents. However, what course of action should be taken when those who are expected to abide by God’s order find themselves adrift?

Such was the predicament faced by Nabal and Abigail. Here, Abigail became entangled between two authorities: one egregiously deviating from the prescribed order – her husband – and the other, David, perilously close to straying from his path by seeking to annihilate Nabal and his possessions. This reiterates the significance of Abigail’s sagacity as she discreetly orchestrated the arrangement of supplies for David and his men, who had dutifully cared for Nabal’s sheep. With swift resolve, she presented these provisions to David, preventing the unnecessary spilling of innocent blood and safeguarding her family from impending ruin. Remarkably, Abigail abstained from pressuring her husband into compliance or condemning David’s intentions. Instead, she pursued righteousness even in the face of her husband’s reluctance.

This judicious act not only salvaged the lives of all involved, including Nabal, her spouse, and their familial interests, but also exposed Nabal’s conceit, leading to his unexpected demise when the realization of impending destruction overwhelmed him at the dinner table.

Abigail’s discernment illuminated a path when God’s ordained order seemed to falter.

David and Abigail’s Marriage:

Recognizing Abigail’s wisdom and virtue, David sought to take her as his wife. After Nabal’s death, he sent messengers to propose marriage to her, and she accepted. This union brought David not only a godly wife but also had implications for his future reign as king.

Conclusion:

The story of David and Abigail showcases the importance of wisdom and humility in navigating conflicts and making decisions. It also emphasizes God’s providential care in orchestrating events to achieve His purposes. Through Abigail’s intervention, disaster was averted, and David’s path was redirected towards God’s plan for his life.

7 Things We Learned:

Wisdom in Conflict Resolution: The story of David and Abigail underscores the power of wisdom in resolving conflicts. Abigail’s quick thinking and humility prevented a potentially violent confrontation and showcased the effectiveness of wisdom in diffusing tense situations.
Importance of Humility: Abigail’s humility was a pivotal factor in her successful intervention. Her ability to approach David with respect and humility softened his heart, preventing him from acting rashly.
Divine Providence: The story highlights God’s providential care over His people. Abigail’s timely intervention, the consequences faced by Nabal, and the subsequent marriage of David and Abigail all point to a higher purpose being orchestrated by God.
Navigating Authority and Order: Abigail’s situation illustrates the complexity of navigating conflicting authorities and maintaining God’s established order. Her wisdom guided her to uphold righteousness even when those in authority were straying from their roles.
Preventing Unnecessary Conflict: Abigail’s actions saved lives by preventing unnecessary bloodshed. Her ability to see the bigger picture and act accordingly showcases the significance of considering long-term consequences in decision-making.
Redemption and Second Chances: Nabal’s demise serves as a reminder that even in the face of one’s foolishness, there can be opportunities for redemption and second chances. It also illustrates the consequences that can arise from arrogance and defiance.
Influence of Godly Partners: Abigail’s role in David’s life went beyond the immediate conflict resolution. Her wisdom and character left a lasting impact, leading to her becoming David’s wife. This union not only blessed David personally but also played a role in his future as a king.

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From Tragedy to Redemption: Granger Smith’s New Path, Glenn Beck Interview

The Dream Life of Granger Smith

Before tragedy struck, Granger was living out his dream – traveling, meeting fans, and making music at the top of his charts.

A Devastating Night

On a serene evening in Texas, Granger lost his three-year-old son, River, in a tragic pool accident, an event that would change the course of his life.

[ORDER BOOK NOW]

The Mental Struggle

Battling immense guilt and a ceaseless slideshow of haunting memories, Granger sought refuge in self-help books, therapy, and even contemplated ending his life.

A Miraculous Turn

In his darkest hour, a plea to Jesus halted the torment in his mind and set him on a transformative journey.

Finding Jesus

Rather than merely recovering from his grief, Granger’s life was reconstructed by a newfound relationship with Jesus. He delved into the scriptures, aiming to deeply understand and live by God’s word.

From Country Star to Spiritual Guide Discovering Hope in the Midst of Desolation and Grief

A New Mission

Realizing his calling, Granger decided to step away from country music, shifting his focus to a life of ministry, writing, and counseling others through their struggles.

Listen to Glenn Beck Interview Granger Smith

Greg Lancaster, VFNtv · Granger Smith – River Of Life Story-

10 Things We Learned:

Granger Smith was at the peak of his music career when tragedy struck.
The unexpected loss of his young son, River, was a pivotal point in his life.
Granger faced immense guilt, which made the grieving process even more challenging.
Despite trying various self-help measures, he felt progressively worse.
At his lowest, a plea to Jesus saved him from taking his own life.
Granger transitioned from a cultural to a committed Christian, immersing himself in the Bible.
He began meeting others in pain and felt a calling to help them more extensively.
Granger is making a dramatic career shift from country music to ministry.
He’s going back to school, attending seminary.
Despite challenges, Granger’s story underscores the transformative power of faith.

GLM

Are You Ready? I don’t believe revival is going to last long… Find out why? Pastor John Kilpatrick

“I don’t believe revival is going to last long. Let me tell you why: because I believe Jesus is about to come. I don’t say that as a cliché; I say it because I have truly been convicted about it. I mean it. When you look around, I just want to ask you to examine yourself for a minute. When you look around and see that right now, revival has broken out, you can criticize it. You can say it’s not of God. I don’t care what you say. I believe God’s moving, and I believe it’s from God.” Pastor John Kilpatrick

Are you ready? Find out how you can Know God!

Be Prepared!

PrepareNowGreg.com

PrudentPreparation.org

Anxiety Baptism in Holy Spirit Fear GLM

BREATHE

In the furnace of life, where trials forge our steel,
Wrestling chaos and strife, we question what is real.
A tempest in the mind, in torrents, fears unspool,
Remember then, to find, your breath’s tranquil pool.

The world may roar and sway, as tides of worry crest,
Each moment, a disarray, an unwelcome guest.
Yet, beneath the clamor loud, an anchor ever true,
In your breath, soft and proud, a sanctuary for you.

Inhale the promise of dawn, exhale the day’s regret,
In the quietude drawn, find peace from life’s duet.
In breath, surrender strife, let the moment be,
Embrace this gift of life, in simplicity, just breathe.

When you’re lost in darkest night, your heart besieged by fears,
Breathing brings the light, and clarity appears.
Each inhale a prayer of hope, each exhale, release,
In breath’s rhythmic envelope, find strength and inner peace.

So, remember to breathe, through storms of pain and stress,
In your trusty breath, find solace and egress.
An elixir for the soul, a balm for every wound,
In every breath you hold, life’s melody is tuned.

[Jesus] breathed on them and said,
‘Receive the Holy Spirit.‘
John 20:22 (NIV)

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