SAILING - Part one

SAILING - Part one 

Each of us is like a sail boat and our life on earth is like a sailboat on the sea.

Clear instructions about sailing are available, and it is necessary to take time to learn and understand the basics, before launching on an expedition on the water. This is important so that you, together with those on the boat would be safe and arrive on land without a 'shipwreck'!

So it is with our spiritual journey on earth. Clear instructions are available in the B-I-B-L-E -  as someone said, Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth!

This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck, 1 Timothy 1:18-19

SEA - THE WORLD 

Sailing needs water and wind.

We need the wind of the Holy Spirit to sail on the waters of this world.

Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Revelation 21:1

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 1 Timothy 6:7-11

WIND - HOLY SPIRIT

It is necessary to determine the direction of the wind all the while you are sailing. That is the reference point from which everything else is determined.

The spirit of an individual is revived by the Holy Spirit of GOD, when he/she is born again by receiving the forgiveness offered by the LORD JESUS. Such a person has the direction and the power of the Holy Spirit to live a victorious life on earth.

The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit."

John 3:8

SAIL - SOUL 

We have no control of the wind, but we have control of the sail. The sail can compare to our soul that comprises of the intellect, emotion and will of our mind.

If you want to make use of the power of the wind for your journey, you must learn the skill of getting the main sail up quickly and safely! As Christians who are connected to GOD through the Holy Spirit in us, we must learn to quieten our soul and bring it under submission to the Holy Spirit. This is spiritual 'Trim'. Only then can we live a victorious Christian life.

However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. John 16:13

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Romans 8:5-6

MAST - MASTER JESUS

Vertical pole on which the sail is hoisted.

This can be likened to the cross on which our LORD was crucified.

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20

 SHEET - FAITH

The rope that is used to control and adjust the sail which is a sheet of fabric.

Our Christian life should be one of faith. We can imagine our faith to be like a rope that connects our Spirit to GOD. JESUS is the Author and the Finisher of our faith. This faith enables us to see and hear beyond the natural, into the spiritual realm through the word of GOD.

 "Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith.
Habakkuk 2:4

For we walk by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7

BOOM - HUMILITY 

A horizontal pole that extends from the base of the mast, to which the base of the mainsail is attached.

The boom swings from side to side and is used to control the trim of the mainsail while sailing. This also helps to adjust the speed of the boat.

Boom injuries are the most common injuries in sailing. When you turn the boat suddenly while sailing, you must make sure to duck your head, to prevent being hit by the boom! The swinging boom with the full force of the wind can hit a head that is in the way, so hard, that it can cause great injury and bleeding and even death! It is necessary to be aware of such a danger from a boom! 

The boom teaches about humility. Especially when we are enjoying a free sail with the wind, if we are not careful to be humble, pride can hit us hard on the head, causing great spiritual injury and spiritual fall!

Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Romans 12:16
 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
1 Peter 5:5-7

BOW - HEAD

The front of the boat.

We must constantly renew our mind according to the word of GOD so that we may head in the path of righteousness in humility. We must surrender our will to the LORD in worship so that we may live a victorious spiritual life.

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.
2 Corinthians 10:3-6

 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14

LUFFING - RESISTING THE HOLY SPIRIT 

Heading the front of the boat, which is called the bow, into the wind so the sail flutters and the boat slows.

This way of sailing can be compared to the arrogant attitude of standing against and resisting the Holy Spirit. Such a person's soul flutters and is restless.

The wicked plots against the just, And gnashes at him with his teeth. The Lord laughs at him, For He sees that his day is coming. The wicked have drawn the sword And have bent their bow, To cast down the poor and needy, To slay those who are of upright conduct. Their sword shall enter their own heart, And their bows shall be broken. Psalm 37:12-15

NO-GO ZONE - CONTRARY TO THE HOLY SPIRIT 

This direction of sailing is also referred to as 'In Irons'.

Sailing directly against the direction of the wind is impossible.

None can fight against GOD and win. It is wise therefore not to resist the voice of the Holy Spirit when he speaks from within us or speaks through others.

As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" Then the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads." So he, trembling and astonished, said, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" Then the Lord said to him, "Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."

Acts 9:3-6

"Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation"-- because they said, "He has an unclean spirit." Mark 3:28-30

HULL - BODY

Floating part of the boat. The body.

As long as we have life in this body, we must use it to glorify GOD and fulfil His purpose for our life. We must offer ourselves to GOD, spirit, soul and body so that He might live and work through us. Then our lives will be profitable for the Kingdom of GOD.

Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

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

 KEEL & BALLAST - TRUTH

The keel is a flat blade that protrudes from the bottom of the boat into the water. it also holds the ballast - the weight. These give stability to the boat and prevent it from swaying side to side and from tipping over while sailing.

We must understand that although we are spiritually minded, yet we live in the flesh, with all its weaknesses and limitations. This truth enables us to be understanding towards the physical  and emotional weaknesses and needs of others. Without this understanding, we cannot live our Christian life, effectively reaching out to others. Interestingly, the role of the keel is very important, especially while sailing 'Reach'! The LORD JESUS is our example.

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2:5-8

I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. John 17:15-17

 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

James 2:15-17

Remember the prisoners as if chained with them--those who are mistreated--since you yourselves are in the body also.
Hebrews 13:3

It is the truth of GOD's word that keeps us stable while progressing in this world towards our eternal destination. The girdle of truth which is a part of the soldier's armor gives us the balance and stability while taking our stand and while marching.

STERN - SUBMISSION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT

It is the rear of the boat. The shape of it influences the hydrodynamic force that propels the boat forward in the desired direction. 

When we live in obedience to the LORD JESUS by submitting to the Holy Spirit, we progress in the path of righteousness with peace and rest.

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

RUN - MOVED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT

When you are sailing downwind in the direction of the wind, the energy and power you need to move is released by the wind. You need to only turn the boom so that the sail is in the right direction and to trim the sail. Then it is a RUN!

When we submit our mind to move in the direction of the Holy Spirit, we will progress towards the LORD JESUS. Then we also experience the strength and power to live victoriously and find peace and rest to our soul. We will pray, speak, work and walk as led by the Spirit of GOD.

 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2

 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

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Acts 1:8

for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21

REACHING - REACHING OTHERS

Reaching is when you are sailing at right angles to the direction of the wind. The wind blows over the side of the boat.

Just as the LORD JESUS lived for others and died to save mankind, we also must live to reach others with the love of GOD.

Then Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." Mark 1:17

To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily. Colossians 1:27-29

RUDDER - TONGUE

A blade or fin that is mounted to the base of the stern on a hinge. The rudder is controlled by a tiller and is used to steer the boat in the right direction. you must understand the reactions of the boat on the water to the tiller, so that you can handle the tiller correctly.

The words our tongues speak that come out of our mouth, are an indication of what is in the heart and hence show the direction we are progressing in our spiritual life. Even the truth should be spoken in love.

 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!

James 3:4-5

Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man."

Matthew 15:17-20

 If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless.
James 1:26

Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.
Psalm 34:13

And my tongue shall speak of Your righteousness And of Your praise all the day long.
Psalm 35:28

TRUE WIND - GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT

The speed and movement of the real wind that is not affected by the motion of the observer.

It is very important for us to be very sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, especially when operating in the gifts of the Spirit. Any soulish motive or wrong attitude should not alter, take away or add to anything the Spirit says. The prophetic words, words of knowledge or wisdom should be accurate, like the 'True Wind'

 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you. 

John 16:13-15

 Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good.
1 Thessalonians 5:19-21

DYNAMICS 

The two external forces operating on the boat are caused by the water (hydrodynamics) and wind (aerodynamics).

Similarly, while living on this earth, we face the pressures of the world and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

While sailing, the boat is subject to four different forces.

1) The weight of the boat pushes it downward.

2) The buoyant force of the water pushes it upward.

3) The drag which is the backward pull of the water.

4) The wind that pushes it forward.

The carnality of the flesh can be compared to the weight of the boat that gives in to the water of worldliness to drag us backwards while the wind of the Holy Spirit over our soul causes us to move forward and upward spiritually. This aerodynamic force enables us to be the light of the world according to the LORD's command. The self promoting values of the world push the carnal 'self' in us upwards to give in to the pride of life. This force should be overcome by our disciplined humble, selfless physical life that makes us humane and understanding in our relationships with others. This is good hydrodynamics that makes us the salt of the earth as JESUS has commanded us to be!

 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.
Galatians 5:17

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:13-16

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.

Romans 8:1-2

 

BOAT RULES

As much as possible, the crew should be grouped together in the centre of the boat. This would give the boat a good balance and also prevent unnecessary turbulence.

Believers are called to live in unity in CHRIST. Together we represent the Body of CHRIST in this world. As someone said, 'Fellowship is, unity among all the fellows in one ship'!

 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling;
Ephesians 4:1-4

 Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
1 John 4:17

TRAFFIC LAWS 

When two boats are headed in the same direction, the slower moving vessel has the right of way.

In our spiritual walk, we must be humble to understand and be patient with those who are young and weaker in their faith.

And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.
1 Corinthians 8:11-13

"But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
Matthew 18:6

The Living Water

 GOD's Amazing Grace

Revealed through the Messiah

https://youtu.be/G2mag1v0OLk

 Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. But He needed to go through Samaria. 

So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from His journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 

A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink." For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water." 

The woman said to Him, "Sir, You have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water? Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, as well as his sons and his livestock?"

Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." The woman said to Him, "Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw." 

Jesus said to her, "Go, call your husband, and come here." The woman answered and said, "I have no husband." Jesus said to her, "You have well said, 'I have no husband,' for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; in that you spoke truly." 

The woman said to Him, "Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship." Jesus said to her, "Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 

But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." 

The woman said to Him, "I know that Messiah is coming" (who is called Christ). "When He comes, He will tell us all things." Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am He." 

And at this point His disciples came, and they marveled that He talked with a woman; yet no one said, "What do You seek?" or, "Why are You talking with her?" 

The woman then left her waterpot, went her way into the city, and said to the men, "Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did. Could this be the Christ?" Then they went out of the city and came to Him. 

In the meantime His disciples urged Him, saying, "Rabbi, eat." But He said to them, "I have food to eat of which you do not know." Therefore the disciples said to one another, "Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?" Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work. 

Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest'? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. 

For in this the saying is true: 'One sows and another reaps.' I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors." And many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, "He told me all that I ever did." 

So when the Samaritans had come to Him, they urged Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His own word. Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world."
John 4:1-42

POWER

 POWER

Power is the ability to perform a task or do something that requires more than the normal strength.

GOD is all-powerful. Power belongs to GOD.

What power does He make available to us?

How do we access that power?

GOD not only commands us but gives us the ability and the power to live a victorious Christian life.

He acts powerfully on behalf of those whose hearts are perfect towards Him.

He imparts His power to His servants to do His work.

The Power of the CROSS is manifested in selfless love.

The Power of the BLOOD of JESUS is released when I turn to Him in repentance, to cleanse me of all sin. This is the Power of the Gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.

This Power also enables me to release forgiveness to those who sin against me.

The Power of the WORD of GOD is made real in my life when I diligently study the word to submit to it and live out that word.

When I ABIDE IN CHRIST, the Power of the HOLY SPIRIT IN me brings forth the FRUIT of the Spirit in my life.

When the ANOINTING of the HOLY SPIRIT is UPON me, I am enabled to serve GOD through the GIFTS of the Spirit. This Kingdom Power overcomes and prevails over all the powers of the kingdom of darkness.

 

The voice of the Lord is powerful; 

The voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
Psalm 29:4

• The voice of the LORD is powerful

GOD spoke and the world came into being!

He still speaks and releases His power.

but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, 

Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
1 Corinthians 1:24

 And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, 

for My strength is made perfect in weakness.

" Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, 

that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 Corinthians 12:9

• CHRIST- The power of GOD.                                                                       The power of CHRIST is made perfect in my weakness

 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, 

for it is the power of God to salvation 

for everyone who believes, 

for the Jew first and also for the Greek.
Romans 1:16

• The Gospel of CHRIST - The power of God to Salvation

 Then they came to Him, 

bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. 

And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, 

they uncovered the roof where He was. 

So when they had broken through, 

they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. 

When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 

"Son, your sins are forgiven you." 

And some of the scribes were sitting there 

and reasoning in their hearts, 

"Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? 

Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

 But immediately, when Jesus perceived in His spirit 

that they reasoned thus within themselves, 

He said to them, 

"Why do you reason about these things in your hearts? 

Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 

'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 

'Arise, take up your bed and walk'? 

But that you may know 

that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins"-

-He said to the paralytic, I say to you, 

arise, take up your bed, and go to your house." 

Immediately he arose, took up the bed, 

and went out in the presence of them all, 

so that all were amazed and glorified God, saying, 

"We never saw anything like this!"

Mark 2:3-12

 Then, the same day at evening, 

being the first day of the week, 

when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, 

for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, 

and said to them, "Peace be with you." 

When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. 

Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 

So Jesus said to them again, "Peace to you! 

As the Father has sent Me, I also send you." 

And when He had said this, He breathed on them, 

and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. 

If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; 

if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."

John 20:19-23

• • The greatest power displayed by the LORD JESUS 
  and followed through by His followers, 
  is the power of FORGIVENESS!

It is the Holy Spirit, the very Spirit of the LORD JESUS, 

Who releases into us the power to forgive.

The choice is left to us, 

whether to release forgiveness or not! 

But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, 

we have fellowship with one another, 

and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.
1 John 1:7

 Now the blood shall be a sign for you 

on the houses where you are. 

And when I see the blood, I will pass over you; 

and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you 

when I strike the land of Egypt.
Exodus 12:13

• The Blood of JESUS - the powerful sin-stain Remover!

 For the message of the cross is foolishness 

to those who are perishing, 

but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:18

• The message of the Cross - The Power of GOD!

 Then He said to them, "Thus it is written, 

and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer 

and to rise from the dead the third day, 

and that repentance and remission of sins 

should be preached in His name to all nations, 

beginning at Jerusalem. 

And you are witnesses of these things. 

Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; 

but tarry in the city of Jerusalem 

until you are endued with power from on high."
Luke 24:46-49

• The promise of the Father - power from on high

But you shall receive power 

when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; 

and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, 

and in all Judea and Samaria, 

and to the end of the earth."
Acts 1:8

• The power of the Holy Spirit to be witnesses to the LORD

 So he answered and said to me: 

"This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: 

'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' 

Says the Lord of hosts.
Zechariah 4:6

• The Power of The Holy Spirit 

strengthened with all might, 

according to His glorious power, 

for all patience and longsuffering with joy;
Colossians 1:11

•                               His glorious power - gives us strength for all patience and longsuffering with joy!

 For the kingdom of God is not in 

word but in power.
1 Corinthians 4:20

 and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons:
Mark 3:15

Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, 

and over all the power of the enemy, 

and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Luke 10:19

He has delivered us from the power of darkness 

and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,
Colossians 1:13

• The Kingdom of GOD is in power

 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, 

He gave them power over unclean spirits, 

to cast them out, 

and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.
Matthew 10:1

 And He said to them, 

"I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 

Behold, I give you the authority 

to trample on serpents and scorpions, 

and over all the power of the enemy, 

and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Luke 10:18-19

• Power over all the power of the enemy - Power over unclean spirits and power to heal all kinds of sicknesses

that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, 

and the fellowship of His sufferings, 

being conformed to His death,
Philippians 3:10

 But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead

 dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead 

will also give life to your mortal bodies 

through His Spirit who dwells in you.
Romans 8:11

• The Power of the Resurrection of CHRIST

who has come, 

not according to the law of a fleshly commandment, 

but according to the power of an endless life.
Hebrews 7:16

• The power of an endless life

 Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, 

lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. 

For the word of God is living and powerful, 

and sharper than any two-edged sword, 

piercing even to the division of soul and spirit,

 and of joints and marrow, 

and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 

And there is no creature hidden from His sight, 

but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him 

to whom we must give account.
Hebrews 4:11-13

• The word of GOD is powerful

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, 

He Himself likewise shared in the same, 

that through death He might destroy him 

who had the power of death, 

that is, the devil, 

and release those who through fear of death 

were all their lifetime subject to bondage.
Hebrews 2:14-15

• The devil who had the power of death is destroyed by the death of CHRIST

 and have tasted the good word of God 

and the powers of the age to come,
Hebrews 6:5

• Those who are enlightened, now taste the powers of the age to come

as His divine power has given to us all things 

that pertain to life and godliness, 

through the knowledge of Him 

who called us by glory and virtue,
2 Peter 1:3

• His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to a godly life

And he who overcomes, 

and keeps My works until the end, 

to him I will give power over the nations--
Revelation 2:26

• To the overcomer is given power over the nations!

TRANSGENDER

 TRANSGENDER

'Trans' means go beyond or across the boundary line.

Human beings are created with a spirit and soul that dwell in a physical body. Our body contains the spirit and soul that are more important because they are eternal, that means lasting forever!

The soul of a person is the mind that consists of the intellect, emotion and the will. The soul is very important because that is what we have control of. Each one of us is responsible to steer our life in the right direction. The soul is the steering wheel we need to handle responsibly, to live a peaceful and blessed life, not only for ourselves, but also for the sake of those around us. We know full well the damage caused to themselves and others by those who ignorantly or purposefully steer vehicles dangerously on the streets.

It is therefore necessary for each one of us to know the truth and reset our mind accordingly.

The truth is that we are made as male or female. Looking at our body parts, we know whether we are male our female. This is a fact and we cannot change this because every cell in the body proves that you are a male or a female.

Even right now if you are confused and wondering how you could feel restless about this fact, there is a solution to your problem! You don't need to struggle about changing your physical appearance which would result in extreme stress for you and others involved, including those who truly love you.

It is your soul, that is your mind that needs to be renewed and aligned to the truth and not your body! It is your mind that has to be transformed and not your body!

When you go to the One Who has all authority over your life, He will lead and guide you in the right path in this life. He will change the thinking of your mind according to His word. Your life will be transformed as your thinking changes. Your feelings will change and you will find true peace in submitting to your Maker.

 But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? 

Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, 

"Why have you made me like this?"

Romans 9:20

Ask GOD, Who is your loving Heavenly Father, to renew your mind according to His word, the Scriptures. His Holy Spirit will reveal to you your true identity in CHRIST, Who died to take the punishment of your sin. He will help you to overcome every hurt you may have experienced in your childhood. Anger against your mother, father or any member of your family. These hurts can etch the gender of the one who hurt you in your mind, leaving an unhealthy wound in your soul. This wound in turn causes you to repel that particular gender, which in turn will lead you to question your own gender, bringing great confusion. You may then succumb to believing yourself to be what you are not. If this confusion is not corrected in your mind, you will progress to seeking a transgender pathway. 

This lifestyle brings confusion to others and stumbles many, which is sin.

Transgender life is transgression in GOD's eyes because it is a way of rebellion against your Maker. Transgression is punishable, unless it is repented of. The LORD JESUS took the punishment for all our transgressions. He offers forgiveness freely so that we can turn around and walk with Him in this life and then enter Heaven to live forever in perfect peace and great joy!

 But He was wounded for our transgressions, 

He was bruised for our iniquities; 

The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, 

And by His stripes we are healed. 

All we like sheep have gone astray; 

We have turned, every one, to his own way; 

And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. 

He was oppressed and He was afflicted, 

Yet He opened not His mouth; 

He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, 

And as a sheep before its shearers is silent, 

So He opened not His mouth. 

He was taken from prison and from judgment, 

And who will declare His generation? 

For He was cut off from the land of the living; 

For the transgressions of My people He was stricken.

Isaiah 53:5-8

May GOD richly bless you 

as you continue to seek His face and follow His path!

ISAIAH 1:18

 

Isaiah 1:18

 "Come now, and let us reason together," Says the Lord, "Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool. Isaiah 1:18

This Scripture pictures the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world - His white wool, His red blood that was shed.

The LORD JESUS CHRIST, The Son of GOD, He is that Lamb of GOD!

Our black sin, when covered by the red blood of the Lamb, is seen as white righteousness in the eyes of GOD!

Let us ask the LORD to forgive our sins and to cover them by His blood. That is the only way to be cleansed from our sins.

Next, let us forgive others and ask the LORD to cover their sins by His blood. That is intercession.

But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:7-9

Be Fruitful and Multiply

The command of the LORD echoes and re-echoes down generations - 

"Be Fruitful and Multiply"

In the natural - in the garden with seeds and plants.

In the family with children and grandchildren.

More importantly, in the spiritual, 

multiplication of disciples.

 RAINBOW

 Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. So the Lord said, "I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them." But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. This is the genealogy of Noah. Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God. And Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth.
Genesis 6:5-12

Isn't the earth in a very similar situation today? 

Is not GOD'S heart grieved by the wicked ways of mankind?

 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.
Genesis 6:8

Have you found grace in the eyes of GOD?

Do you diligently seek Him and seek His will and purpose for your life?

Do you have a desire to please GOD?

The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Therefore I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; and I have recompensed their deeds on their own heads," says the Lord God.
Ezekiel 22:29-31

Having found grace in the eyes of GOD, Noah became a point of grace - an intercessor, to see GOD'S grace extended to others.

 "Make yourself an ark of gopherwood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and outside with pitch.
Genesis 6:14

Like the ark, we must diligently make our lives water-proof and water-tight by the Holy Spirit through constant prayer, so that we are not drowned in the flood of worldliness.

 The waters prevailed and greatly increased on the earth, and the ark moved about on the surface of the waters. And the waters prevailed exceedingly on the earth, and all the high hills under the whole heaven were covered. The waters prevailed fifteen cubits upward, and the mountains were covered. And all flesh died that moved on the earth: birds and cattle and beasts and every creeping thing that creeps on the earth, and every man. All in whose nostrils was the breath of the spirit of life, all that was on the dry land, died.
Genesis 7:18-22

Those that survived the flood, were  only the eight people of Noah's family and the creatures that went into the ark.

The people, and all creatures that had breath in their nostrils, that did not enter the ark, perished in the flood.

How about the fish? They did not enter the ark. They were the only creatures that were outside the ark and yet survived! How come?

The 'Breath of the spirit of life in the nostrils' is symbolic of spiritual life. It is a depiction of individuals who have their spirits revived by the Spirit of GOD and who are born again into the Kingdom of GOD. 

Fish are a depiction of people who are of the world, in whom is the spirit of this world. Like the fish that have no air in their nostrils, are those whose spirits are not revived by the breath of the Spirit of GOD.

Those who are not born again spiritually, cannot enter the ark, which is the Kingdom of GOD.

Even those who are born again will not survive the flood, unless they enter the ark, that is the Kingdom of GOD and are found to be a part of the Body of CHRIST. 

 On the very same day Noah and Noah's sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, and Noah's wife and the three wives of his sons with them, entered the ark-- they and every beast after its kind, all cattle after their kind, every creeping thing that creeps on the earth after its kind, and every bird after its kind, every bird of every sort. And they went into the ark to Noah, two by two, of all flesh in which is the breath of life. So those that entered, male and female of all flesh, went in as God had commanded him; and the Lord shut him in. Now the flood was on the earth forty days. The waters increased and lifted up the ark, and it rose high above the earth.
Genesis 7:13-17

Those who were saved by the ark in the flood were only those who were found inside the ark, in one place, in relationship with each other. This is a depiction of the worldwide Body of CHRIST. This is the Bride of CHRIST, Who is in an intimate relationship with the LORD JESUS and in right relationship with one another. 

The Bride of CHRIST consists of individuals who have overcome this world and the worldliness to live a spiritually victorious life. The greater the flood of worldliness, the higher the spiritual heights of the redeemed who will rise on the wings of the Holy Spirit, to be above the earth!!

The rainbow was only for those who escaped the flood by entering the ark.

 And God said: "This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you, and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. It shall be, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow shall be seen in the cloud; and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. The rainbow shall be in the cloud, and I will look on it to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth." And God said to Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth."
Genesis 9:12-17

The rainbow is the sign of the covenant initiated by GOD between Himself and man and all living creatures on earth. It displays the seven colors that appear when rays of light are refracted. Seven is GOD'S special number that depicts completion. 

We must understand that any portrayal of colors made by man that might appear as a rainbow, but is different to the colors of the genuine rainbow and has less or more colors, is not a representation of a rainbow. In fact it shouldn't be called a rainbow. Since it appears as a rainbow at first sight, it is a deception.

Undermining GOD'S creative work and His authority and refusing to submit to GOD'S ways and instructions is the sin of rebellion and pride against GOD and sadly, such lifestyles, carry consequences.

The rainbow appears gloriously in the cloud as a reminder of GOD'S covenant of grace with mankind. Our eyes meet GOD'S eyes at the rainbow and our hearts are touched as we acknowledge and respond with love to our glorious and gracious GOD, Who desires to have such a close relationship with His mankind!

The rainbow is like a wedding ring - the sign of an eternal covenant of GOD with mankind. Therefore your response to a rainbow will indicate your relationship with the Eternal GOD!

If your heart responds with joy and excitement whenever you see a rainbow means that your heart is filled with GOD'S love and that you are in a covenant relationship with GOD!

 And above the firmament over their heads was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like a sapphire stone; on the likeness of the throne was a likeness with the appearance of a man high above it. Also from the appearance of His waist and upward I saw, as it were, the color of amber with the appearance of fire all around within it; and from the appearance of His waist and downward I saw, as it were, the appearance of fire with brightness all around. Like the appearance of a rainbow in a cloud on a rainy day, so was the appearance of the brightness all around it. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. So when I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard a voice of One speaking.
Ezekiel 1:26-28

So I arose and went out into the plain, and behold, the glory of the Lord stood there, like the glory which I saw by the River Chebar; and I fell on my face.
Ezekiel 3:23

Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people; But the Lord will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising.
Isaiah 60:1-3

If you have experienced GOD'S love and seen His light, arise, to shine His light in this dark world!

if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14

If you have experienced GOD'S grace upon your life, arise and stand in the gap and pray for GOD'S grace to be extended to others, even to the wicked. Then GOD will answer from His Holy Heaven.

Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.
Revelation 5:8

Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel's hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.
Revelation 8:3-5




The rainbow is a reflection of the glory of the LORD. There is a rainbow around the glorious throne of GOD in Heaven!

 After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven. And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me, saying, "Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this." Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven, and One sat on the throne. And He who sat there was like a jasper and a sardius stone in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, in appearance like an emerald.
Revelation 4:1-3

Do you have the 'Breath of Life' in you?

If you are still a 'Fish in the Water', this very moment you can open your heart to GOD, coming to Him in the name of JESUS CHRIST His Son. Ask Him to forgive your sins and receive His salvation which He accomplished for you by taking on the punishment for all your sin on the cross. As you give your life to Him, He will enter in, in the form of His Holy Spirit. You can then enter the ark and be saved in the flood!

If CHRIST is in you, you must make sure you are 'In CHRIST'.

 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
John 15:5

If the Kingdom of GOD is in you, you must also be 'In the Kingdom of GOD'.

If you have the 'Breath of Life' in you, make sure that you are found 'In CHRIST', in relationship with those in the Body of CHRIST. Thus you will be 'In the ark' and not perish in the flood.