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Some may think of peace as one of those fleeting things we might experience one fine day into the future. Peace is often seen as the opposite of turmoil and strife. Peace comes from deep within. Remember the fruits of the Spirit are of the SPIRIT. Those without the Spirit can't possibly posses it, at least not in the way the bible describes it. I probably most often associate peace with sleep, yet we can sleep in restlessness. Peace on the surface seems like one of those meek traits when in reality it is a bastion of fortification against all unruliness and external forces which induce fear. Peace then, is a defense that relies not on ourselves or external circumstances, but the steady loving hand of God. Peace stems from assurance. Peace is the opposite of worry. We can't have both at the same time. Peace surrenders, lays down all concern at the feet of Jesus. 2 Cor. 13:11 11 Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. Phillipians 4:6,7 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The Peaceful Nature of the Kingdom of God Jesus taught that the church which he was to build and the kingdom of heaven were one and the same. This is made clear by his use of the terms interchangably in Matthew 16:16-19. In Paul's writings he specifically says that Christians have been "translated into the kingdom" of Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:13). So Christ rules today over the lives of Christians who make up God's kingdom, the church. But what is the nature of this kingdom? May its subjects participate in warfare, with carnal weapons, and still have the approval of its King? In order to answer these questions, let us examine several Old Testament prophecies which point to the kingdom of Christ in the New Testament. In Micah 4:1-4, we have a prophecy which contains the following elements: (1) Its fulfillment would occur in the last days (of political Israel, not of the world). (2) The mountain of the house of the Lord would be established (a reference to the kingdom or church). (3) People of all nations would flow into this kingdom. (4) Its law, the Word of God, would go forth from Jerusalem. The fulfillment of this prophecy is found in the establishment of the church on the day of Pentecost and is recorded in the 2nd chapter of the Book of Acts. Briefly, here are the reasons why: (1) The events of Acts the 2nd chapter are said by the apostle Peter to have occurred on "the last days" (Compare Joel 2:28ff with Acts 2:17ff). (2) The church is repeatedly spoken of in the New Testament as the "house of God" (I Timothy 3:15; I Peter 4: 17). (3) The church was to be composed of people of all nations (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19) and on the day of Pentecost there were people present from "every nation under heaven" (Acts 2:5). (4) The apostles were told to begin their preaching of the Gospel of the kingdom from the city of Jerusalem (Luke 24:46-49; Acts 1:4, 12). Now let us notice an important element of the Micah prophecy. Among the nations who were to flow unto this "mountain of Jehovah's house" (the kingdom or church) there would be those who would "beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks" (Micah 4:3). It further states that "nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more." The references to "many nations" inviting people to come to the Lord's house (verse 2) and one "nation" not lifting up sword against another (verse 3) refer to the people from all nations who embrace this house of God. Zerr's Commentary says, "Many nations means people from many nations." 18 This period of time does not refer to some golden age of the church on earth when everyone will be converted, nor does it refer to conditions in heaven. The context shows clearly that it is speaking of the church age which began on the day of Pentecost, as recorded in Acts 2, and which continues today. Thus, this prophecy tells of conditions in which we now live, when Christians from the various nations of the world will not take up arms to fight against each other. Commenting on this prophecy, Larry Jonas said, in "The Pattern", "It need only be a time when church members in every nation give up weapons...This prophecy is to be fulfilled by all who obey Jesus."19 Here, then, appears a prophecy of the peaceful nature of the kingdom of Christ, in which Christians would not be engaged in carnal warfare. Another prophecy bearing directly upon the peaceful nature of Christ's kingdom, the church, is found in Isaiah 11:1-10. That this passage alludes to the kingdom of Christ is seen by the fact that the apostle Paul quotes from this passage and applies it to Christ (Romans 15:12). Notice in Isaiah 11:6-9 that various wild animals are pictured as lying down together and even playing with children without harming them. Some have supposed that this refers to a future state of heavenly bliss, but recall that Paul attributes its fulfillment to the time when the Gentiles would have hope in Christ. This, of course, is the Christian dispensation, the church age in which we now live. The language of Isaiah describing the marvelous peace and contentment existing between animal life is simply prophetic imagery indicating the peaceful nature of God's people in the kingdom of Christ. Wallace gives the following comment on this section of Scripture: "The wolf, the leopard and the lion are representative of the wicked and violent passions of men—the wild beasts of human character. It is a prophetic Gospel promise that such evil spirits should be subdued by the reign of the Prince of Peace in the hearts and lives of his subjects."20 The above reference to Christ as "Prince of Peace" is taken from the unmistakable allusion to the Savior recorded in Isaiah 9:6-7. These prophecies, together with others which could be cited, show that Jesus' rule over the hearts of men in his New Testament kingdom would produce in them a nature totally adverse to the practices required by armed warfare. But so much for prophecy. Let us now turn our attention to the explicit teaching of the New Testament Scriptures concerning the peaceful nature of members of Christ's church. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus bestowed his blessing upon the "peacemakers," stating that "they shall be called the children of God" (Matthew 5:9). Peace making was to be a notable characteristic of Christians. But members of the armed forces are rigorously trained in the art of war making. If, somehow, a fighting soldier could be considered a "peacemaker," then who should properly be classed as a "warmaker?" If being a peacemaker brings the promise of being called "children of God," what might those who wage war be called? Peacemakers do not fight, and warmakers are not peaceful! Perhaps one of the clearest passages of Scripture showing that Christians are not permitted to engage in carnal warfare is found in II Corinthians 10:3-4. These verses state: "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds)." Paul here teaches that, although Christians live on earth in a human body, they are not to conduct themselves according to human standards. He does not deny that a Christian is at war, but he points out that the weapons used by the child of God are not the same as those used by non-Christians. The Christian is engaged in "the good fight of the faith," but he uses only those spiritual weapons which God mightily blesses in the overthrow of evil. Weymouth translates this passage, "The weapons with which we fight are not human weapons..." Taylor's "Living New Testament" paraphrases it in these words: "I use God's mighty weapons, not those made by men, to knock down the devil's strongholds." Phillips puts it this way: "The battle we are fighting is on the spiritual level. The very weapons we use are not those of human warfare but powerful in God's warfare for the destruction of the enemy's strongholds." So the Christian is engaged in a spiritual battle, against spiritual enemies and therefore must use spiritual weapons. This same conflict is described by the figure of "wrestling" in Ephesians 6:12, "For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places." (American Standard Version) From this we can see that the Christian's struggle is against evil ideas; against wicked tendencies; against ungodly influences; against false philosophies; against all the powers of sin and wrongdoing. Even though these are formidable enemies, the weapons to be used in combating them involve no violence or bloodshed. To insure victory in this spiritual battle, the New Testament Scriptures refer us to the proper equipment called "the armour of God." This armour consists of truth, righteousness, the Gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God and prayer (Ephesians 6:10-18). How different these weapons are from those used in human warfare! They are specially designed to cast down "imaginations" and to capture "thoughts" with a view to bringing people to a "knowledge of God" and into "the obedience of Christ" (II Corinthians 10:5). They are to be used for elevating and blessing the spirit of man and not for harming or destroying his body. The nature, methods, equipment and aims of the Christian warfare are on a totally different plane than those of human warfare, which requires arms and violence to gain its temporal ends. Carnal weapons are not used in a spiritual war, and spiritual weapons are powerless in a carnal war. The Christian is engaged in only one war, a spiritual one. He is authorized to use only one type of weapon by his Commander, spiritual ones. This means that he has absolutely no place participating in the carnal wars of men, fighting with fleshly weapons, devoted to a mere earthly cause, however noble that cause may appear in the eyes of men. Jesus made this principle clear on the occasion of his mock trial before Pilate. He said, "My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence" (John 18:36). Again we see the peaceful nature of the kingdom expressed by Christ himself. His disciples were forbidden to fight, even for the just cause of delivering the innocent Savior from the injustice of hateful men. Jesus acknowledged that if his kingdom had been as any other worldly kingdom, it would have been a natural consequence for his followers to engage in armed conflict to protect their king and to advance their cause. But Christians sustain such a relationship to Christ which demands that their primary allegiance be to him. If they are not permitted to fight to protect or promote his kingdom, how could they possibly be allowed to engage in a war involving a lesser, earthly kingdom? If a servant of Christ is forbidden to kill on behalf of the King of Kings, the Creator of the universe, how could he be allowed to kill on behalf of a temporal government led by fallible men? Unless it can be shown that earthly kingdoms take preeminence over the heavenly kingdom, it stands that whatever is not permitted for the highest order is certainly forbidden for all lower orders. One incident in Jesus' life stands out as an example of the enforcement of this principle. As Jesus was being arrested in the garden of Gethsemene, one of his disciples drew a sword and attempted to slay one of the arresters. The blow failed to inflict a mortal wound and resulted only in severing the man's ear. Jesus immediately touched the ear and healed him, and then said to Peter, "Put up again thy sword into its place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword" (Matthew 26:52). Here is the case of a small band of disciples being accosted by an angry, armed mob intent on taking their leader to what appeared his certain death. If the use of a defensive sword on behalf of a righteous cause were ever justified, it would certainly have been proper in this instance. But Jesus said, "Put up again thy sword." By this command the Lord disarmed every person who would resort to unrestrained, destructive violence as a means of accomplishing his aim. Jesus was not denying the use of the sword simply because he realized that his earthly mission required submitting to death, for he gives, as the reason, a universal principle. "All they that take the sword shall perish with the sword" is equivalent to saying, "Killing is futile, for it only results in being killed." This principle holds true generally whether death comes through the vengeance of a victim's friends or whether it comes from an enemy soldier on the battlefield of war. Jesus denies the use of a deadly weapon for the purpose of maliciously killing people. And this prohibition serves as another stone in the mountain of New Testament teaching which restricts a Christian from participating in armed warfare. NOTES FROM CHAPTER NINE 18. E. M. Zetr, BIBLE COMMENTARY, (St. Louis, Mo.: Mission Messenger: 1955) Vol. 4, p. 327. 19. Larry Jonas, "Nationalistic Militarism," THE PATTERN (Vancouver, Wash.: Vol. 7, No. 11, Nov. 1, 1964) 20. Foy E. Wallace, Jr., GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD, (Oklahoma City: Foy E. Wallace, Jr. Publications: Revised edition, 1960) p. 492.

Are You a Soldier? What does Scripture say about engaging in earthly warfare? In what sense is every Christian a soldier of Jesus Christ? Do you realize that we are involved in a great spiritual conflict every day? This study will discuss these and other relevant topics! The Christian is a soldier. He is a participant in a war of immense proportions. His entire life is involved in this conflict! The war will continue until Christ returns in victory over His foes. Scripture repeatedly refers to this lifelong spiritual battle we are waging against our spiritual, unseen enemy—Satan. Paul makes reference to this spiritual warfare when he writes, "Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier" (2 Timothy 2:3-4). Notice that we are soldiers of Christ and not of Caesar or any other earthly ruler, whether he be president, king, or sovereign dictator. Because of this, Paul was able to call Epaphroditus and Archippus his "fellow-soldiers" (cf. Phil. 2:25; Phile. 2). Furthermore, we are so devoted to our responsibilities as the Lord’s soldiers and so intent on pleasing Him that we have neither the time nor the interest to become entangled in "the affairs of everyday life" (v. 4; cf. 1 Cor. 7:29-31). A Spiritual War We must realize that we are participating in spiritual warfare, not carnal or fleshly warfare. Paul specifically says, "Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses" (2 Cor. 10:3-4). With spiritual weapons, we are actively "destroying" and "demolishing" everything that would oppose the knowledge of God (v. 5, NASB, NIV). With the spiritual "armor of God" we are enabled to "stand firm against the schemes of the devil" (Eph. 6:11) and resist his wicked advance in the world and in our lives (v. 13). Paul definitely says that our warfare is spiritual in nature: "Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places" (v. 12; cf. vv. 13-20; 1 Thess. 5:8). We fight unseen realities rather than national opponents. We believe in warfare, but ours is a spiritual war, far greater than the carnal wars fought to defend and advance the transitory and imperfect kingdoms of men. The "domain" and "glory" of "the kingdoms of the world" belong to Satan our adversary (Luke 4:5-6), but John the apostle, in vision, heard the announcement that "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of the Lord, and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever" (Rev. 11:15; cf. v. 17). The words of Christ bear like testimony: "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm" (John 18:36). Jesus was king of truth (v. 37; cf. 14:6) and we who have received Him as truth fight a spiritual war, as spiritual soldiers, wearing spiritual armor, bearing spiritual weapons, in His spiritual kingdom! Christ is King of King and Lord of lords! Our Sovereign Commander will be victor over Satan, his angels, and the world (Rev. 17:14; 19:11-18). What should be the Christian’s attitude toward carnal or earthly warfare, in contrast to spiritual warfare? How should he view the military profession, the military industry, and production of instruments of war and bloodshed? These questions do have answers but they will only make sense if you, personally, know God the Father through Jesus Christ His Son. Only if you know the Prince of Peace will you be able to understand the way of peace that He brings to our hearts (John 16:33) and brings to His followers (Eph. 2:14-17). Paul the apostle wrote, "A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised. But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one" (1 Cor. 2:14-15). While certain facts of the Bible may be seen and acknowledged (including the truths which follow), the deeper import of them simply will not be perceived or embraced. With these thoughts in mind, the following considerations should help the sincere follower of Christ to decide what Scripture says about participating in earthly, carnal warfare. Questions that You Must Face (1) Would Jesus Christ, the "Prince of Peace," engage in armed warfare in support of an earthly kingdom on earth? (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 9:54-55; 23:33-34) The Christian is to be Christlike in his attitudes, words, and behavior. He should ask, "What would Jesus do?" as he makes decisions in life. Can you conceive of Jesus clothed in a military uniform, bearing arms, under an earthly commander, taking orders to kill enemies from another nation? "The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked" (1 John 2:6). " Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps" (1 Peter 2:21b). (2) Is the Christian to love all people and do good to all people, including his enemies? Every Christian is to be characterized by love and goodwill toward others, including those who have made themselves his enemy. We are instructed how we should respond to others who hate us and harm us. Just as God is love (1 John 4:8, 16), so the Christian walks in the way of love and goodwill. Is it loving to destroy the enemy and his family? Is it good to maim, harm, and injure both our enemy and innocent people from our enemy’s country? "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:27-28; cf. vv. 32-36; Matt. 5:43-48). " May the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men" (1 Thess. 3:12). " See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all men" (1 Thess. 5:15). (3) Would war cause Christian to fight against Christian if they were to fight for their respective nations? Christians are found in all the nations of the world (Matt. 28:19; Mark 16:15; Rev. 7:9; Col. 1:23). Instead of fighting against His brothers, the Christian is to love his brothers just as Christ loved him! He is to lay down his life for his brothers rather than harming them and killing them because they happen to live in another country. "A new commandments I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35; cf. 15:12). " We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren" (1 John 3:16). See also: 1 Peter 1:22; 4:8; 1 John 3:10, 14-16; 4:7, 11-12, 20-21; 1 Thess. 4:9-10; Heb. 13:1. (4) Does war tend to brutalize and harden the participant? War definitely does cause the soldier to lose compassion, tenderness, kindness, and sympathy. Many men testify that they learned to hate, to injure, and even to kill others while learning to fulfill the duties required in the military. Men harden their conscience so they can carry out brutal acts of violence against other people. "Holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, gentleness and patience" (Col. 3:12; cf. vv. 13-15). " Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you" (Eph. 4:31-32). " Let your gentle spirit be known to all men" (Phil. 4:5). (5) Did Jesus refuse to become involved in the political and nationalistic issues of His day? Jesus maintained a neutrality in the kingdoms of the world for He represented a spiritual kingdom while dwelling on earth. Although nationalistic fervor was intense during the period in which He lived, Jesus did not become embroiled in this attitude. He even prophesied that his nation would soon be destroyed because of their sin (in AD 66-70; cf. Luke 19:43-44; 21:20-24; 23:27-31), but His followers should escape Jerusalem and not join the rebellious resistance force (Luke 21:21; cf. Matt. 24:15-22). His disciples maintained the same perspective of neutrality and partook of a heavenly citizenship where their ultimate loyalty belonged. The body of Christ itself was a spiritual nation, scattered as pilgrims in the midst of the corrupt nations of earth. "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is My kingdom is not of this realm" (John 18:36-37). " Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s" (Matt. 22:21; cf. vv. 17-21; Mark 12:17; Luke 20:25). (Give to Caesar that which bears his image [the coin = taxes that are due], but give to God that which bears His image [man himself who bears the image of God].) " Our citizenship [commonwealth, homeland] is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Phil. 3:20). " You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession" (1 Peter 2:9a; cf. Matt. 21:43). (6) Were the early Christians instructed to flee when persecuted or were they told to defend themselves? When confronted with armed resistance, the early followers of Jesus were to flee to another place rather than fight with earthly weapons. When the cruel and idolatrous Romans would come upon Jerusalem, believers were to flee rather than fight. "Whenever they persecute you in this city, flee to the next" (Matt. 1023a). " When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies . . . . Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains" (Luke 21:20-21; cf. Matt. 24:16; 13:14). See: 2 Cor. 11:32-33; Acts 9:23-25; 12:17; 14:6; 17:10; 20:3; 22:18-21; Matt. 12:14-15). (7) Is the spirit or attitude of Christ in harmony with the spirit of warfare? Indeed, the spirit and demeanor of the Lord Jesus is in complete contrast to the violent spirit of war. Nearly every characteristic that makes a good soldier (except order and discipline) is in conflict with the traits that make a worthy follower of Jesus. "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; therefore be shrewd as serpents, and innocent as doves" (Matt. 10:16; cf. Luke 10:3). " [War is] a brutal, dirty, deadly affair" (General Thomas D. White). " I want every devilish, subtle device and every upper-handed operation possible to use against the Germans and Japs" (General William J. Donovan). " War is the trade of barbarians" (Napoleon). " The profession of a soldier is a damnable profession" (Sir John Sinclair). " War is nothing less than a temporary repeal of the principles of virtue" (Robert Hall). " God is forgotten in war; every principle of Christianity is trampled upon" (Sidney Smith). " War is antagonistic to Christianity for many reasons, but chiefly on account of the ugly passion it excites and the untold misery that it inflicts" (J.B. Remensnyder). " War is the concentration of all human crimes. Under its standard gather violence, malignity, rage, fraud, perfidy, rapacity, and lust. If it only slew men, it would do little. It turns man into a beast of prey" (Dr. Channing). " Its destructive effect upon the moral character of the nation that wages it is war’s final condemnation" (Walter Walsh). " Yes, war is hell, as General Sherman long ago told us; but he did not go on to tell us why. There is only one possible reason. Hell is not a geographical term; it is merely the expression of the spirit or condition of its inhabitants. War is hell because it transforms men into devils" (E.H. Crosby). (8) Is war a blatant violation of Christ’s "Golden" commandment and does it negate the principle of mercy or compassion? Do you want others to harm you or kill your loved ones? Then you must not destroy others or their loved ones. War does the opposite to the enemy nation as you would want that nation to do to yours. Instead of harming or killing our enemies, you must love, bless, and care for them. "Whatever you want others to do for you, do so for them" (Matt. 7:12). "Just as you want men to treat you, treat them in the same way" (Luke 6:31). " Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy" (Matt. 5:7; cf. James 2:13). (9) Do Christ’s servants fight fleshly battles for human state governments? Rather than fighting carnal battles, the Christian engages in spiritual warfare against spiritual enemies (evil demonic powers at work in the world, particularly in the lives of the unsaved). "We do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses" (2 Cor. 10:3b-4; cf. John 18:36-37). " Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword" (Matt. 26:52; cf. vv. 53-54; John 18:11). (Notice that Jesus here forbids a defensive sword for a just cause.) (10) What does Christ’s death on the cross demonstrate? When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He manifested the epitome of nonresistant love. He laid down his life not only for his friends but also for His enemies. He offered Himself without retaliation, without reviling, and without bitterness. "Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps . . . while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously" (1 Peter 2:21, 23; cf. 3:9; 4:19; Matt. 26:53). " He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He does not open His mouth" (Acts 8:32; cf. Isaiah 53:7). " I gave My back to those who strike Me, and My cheeks to those who pluck out the beard; I did not cover My face from humiliation and spitting" (Isaiah 50:6). (11) What does the Great Commission have to do with carnal warfare? When one engages in carnal warfare, he violates Christ’s parting commission to proclaim His good news to every creature on earth. Instead of sharing the glad message of redeeming love, war sends a message of bloodshed and death. We cannot tell the gospel of peace and love to one we have killed! "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation" (Mark 16:15). " Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 28:19a). " Repentance for forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all the nations" (Luke 24:47; cf. Acts 1:8). (12) What is the result of killing an unsaved enemy? If one kills a lost or unsaved enemy in warfare, this will result in his eternal condemnation and will send him to an everlasting hell. Can I have part in this dreadful finality to his opportunity of responding to Christ for salvation? "It is appointed for men to die once, and after this comes judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). " The rich man . . . died and was buried. And in Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment" (Luke 16:22-23). " He who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him" (John 3:36b). (13) Is the Christian to be peaceful and be a peacemaker? The believer definitely is to be characterized by a peaceful disposition and he is to seek peace with others and between others. He is to be a peace-maker and not a war-maker. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Matt. 5:9). " If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men" (Romans 12:18). " Pursue peace with all men" (Heb. 12:14a). (14) Should the Christian retaliate against his personal enemies? The disciple of Christ must not pay back evil for evil. Then how can he be used as a pawn of the earthly power to retaliate against national enemies? Retaliation is part of the very makeup of warfare. Personal ethics must not be abdicated in acquiescence to the state. "Never pay back evil for evil to anyone . . . . Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’ But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:17, 19-21). " Do not resist him who is evil; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also" (Matt. 5:39; cf. vv. 38-42; Luke 6:29-30). " You [wicked rich men] have condemned and put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you" (James 5:6; cf. 1 Peter 2:18-24; 1 Thess. 5:15; 1 Cor. 4:12). " Not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead" (1 Peter 3:9a). (15) Should the Christian be used as an arm of the state in bearing the sword? The Christian is commanded to be subject to human civil government, but he is not instructed to participate in civil affairs nor bear the sword for the governmental powers. The believer must be absolutely submissive to the requirements of the civil authority (e.g., paying taxes, obtaining licenses, observing speed limits, etc.)—unless such submission violates the will of God (cf. Acts 4:19-20; 5:29). "Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves" (Rom. 13:1-2; cf. vv. 3-7; contrast 12:41-21 with this). " Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities" (Titus 3:1a). " Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. . . . fear God, honor the king" (1 Peter 2:13-14, 17b; cf. Matt. 22:21). (16) Could the Christian pray to God to bless his participation in waging carnal war? Obviously a disciple of the Lord could not pray for the blessings of God to rest on his taking the life and destroying the property of his enemy. "If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us" (1 John 5:14b). " Pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28b). " Pray for those who persecute you" (Matt. 5:44b). " I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made in behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity" (1 Tim. 2:1-2; cf. vv. 3-4; Eph. 6:18). (17) Can the Christian wage a deadly, bloody, wicked war in the name of Christ his Lord? A believer really cannot participate in carnal warfare and do so by the authority of Christ, under His direction, according to His spirit of love, and as a follower of Him. "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Col. 3:17a). (18) Is the Christian justified in doing wrong so that there might be a positive result? No, we must never do evil so that good may result. We must never do wrong in order to do right. We (Christians) must not wage carnal warfare (or prepare war materials, weapons, and munitions to support war) in order to overthrow an evil national ruler and secure earthly peace. (For instance, according to Christ, was killing hundreds of thousands of defenseless Germans or Japanese civilians justified in order to bring a more speedy end to the war? Or was rebelling against the British crown, thereby taking up arms, justified in order to secure political representation or obtain political liberty?) Paul said that some misguided people "slanderously reported" that he affirmed, "Let us do evil that good may come." His response was unequivocal: "Their condemnation is just" (Rom. 3:8). The doctrine that we are justified in doing wrong in order to bring good is false! We are never justified in doing evil to secure good. For the Christian, the means must be good as well as the end. (19) What does early church history demonstrate? History tells us that the early Christians refused to participate in warfare for one hundred years or longer after the days of the apostles. Some strong opposition continued for the next century, but a leavening influence had begun with some professing "Christians" in the military ranks. After the time of Augustine (AD 400-430), opposition, for the most part, ceased because of his "just war" doctrine. "No Christian ever thought of enlisting in the army after his conversion until the reign of Marcus Aurelius" around AD 173 (C.J. Cadoux). " It is quite clear that prior to about A.D. 174 it is impossible to speak of Christian soldiers" (Guy F. Hershberger). " Early second-century literature gives no direct evidence in regard to Christian participation in military service. The general statements which do occur imply a negative attitude. They reflect the Christian abhorrence of bloodshed and a general Christian affirmation about peace. . . . Only in the early 170’s do we find the first explicit evidence since apostolic times to the presence of [professing] Christians in the military service. . . . Finally Theodosius II in 416 decreed that only Christians could be in the army, for he wanted divine favor to rest with the armies of the Empire against the barbarian threat" (Everett Ferguson). " From the end of the New Testament period to the decade A.D. 170-180 there is no evidence whatever of Christians in the army" (Roland H. Bainton). " From about 174 A.D. on to the time of Constantine, about 313 A.D., there are indications that a few [professing] Christians were in the military service" (William Paul). " The period from A.D. 180 until the time of Constantine exhibits both in the East and West a number of more or less explicit condemnations of military service" (Bainton). (20) What did early church leaders actually write about warfare? There are too many quotations to include them all in this short treatment. As the above quotations reveal, the overwhelming testimony of the second and third centuries is that professing "Christians" opposed war and participation in warfare. Even after there is evidence that some professing "Christians" were found in the army by the latter second century, leaders continued to write of the peaceful nature of the way of Christ. Several of these quotations follow. "You shall not take evil counsel against your neighbor. You shall not hate any man" (Didache, ca. AD 115). " Do not seek to avenge yourselves on those who injure you. . . . And let us imitate the Lord, ‘who, when he was reviled, reviled not again’; when he was crucified, he answered not; ‘when he suffered, he threatened not’; but prayed for his enemies" (Ignatius, AD 110). " We who were full of war and murder of one another and all wickedness have each changed his warlike instruments—swords into plows and spears into agricultural implements" (Justin, AD 153). " I do not want to rule, I do not wish to be rich, I reject military command, I have hated fornication" (Tatian, ca. AD 170). " We have learned not only not to return blow for blow, nor to go to law with those who plunder and rob us, but to those who smite us on one side of the face to offer the other side also, and to those who take away our coat to give likewise our cloak" (Athenagoras, AD 180). " Since we consider that to see a man put to death is next to killing him, we have renounced such spectacles [gladiator contests]. How then can we, who do not look lest we be stained with guilt and defilement, commit murder?" (Athenagoras, AD 180). " How will a Christian war, indeed how will he serve even in peace without a sword, which the Lord has taken away? . . . The Lord, in disarming Peter, unbelted every soldier" (Tertullian, ca. AD 200). " A soldier of the government must be told not to execute men; if he should be ordered to do it, he shall not do it. He must be told not to take the military oath. If he will not agree, let him be rejected [from baptism]. A military governor or a magistrate of a city who wears the purple, either let him desist or let him be rejected. If a catechumen or a baptized Christian wishes to become a soldier, let him be cast out. For he has despised God" (Hippolytus, ca. AD 210-220). " We have come in accordance with the counsel of Jesus to cut down our warlike and arrogant swords of argument into ploughshares, and we convert into sickles the spears we formerly used in fighting. For we no longer take ‘sword against a nation,’ nor do we learn ‘any more to make war,’ having become sons of peace for the sake of Jesus, who is our leader" (Origen, ca. AD 250). " We fight better on behalf of the king. Indeed we do not fight at his side, even if he should command it, but we fight on his behalf, organizing our own army of piety through our petitions to God" (Origen, ca. AD 250). " Christians decline public offices not in order to escape these duties but in order to keep themselves for a more divine and necessary service in the church of God for the salvation of men" (Origen). " When God forbids us to kill, he not only prohibits us from open violence . . . but he warns us against the commission of those things which are esteemed lawful among men. Thus it will be neither lawful for a just man to engage in warfare" (Lactantius, early 300s). " If all without exception . . . would lend an ear for a little to his [Christ’s] salutary and peaceful rules . . . the whole world, having turned the use of steel into more peaceful occupations, would now be living in the most placed tranquility, and would unite in blessed harmony, maintaining inviolate the sanctity of treaties" (Arnobius, AD 310). Conclusion In view of these twenty weighty points against the Christian’s participation in warfare, we must determine to live nonconformed to the world. Paul wrote, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2). We must choose to walk the "narrow way" that leads to life even when that way is far different from the "broad way" that the vast majority choose to walk (Matt. 7:13-14). The narrow way is one of love, peace and kindness—not only to fellow-believers but also to one’s enemies. The broad way is one of selfishness, hatred, violence, hostility, retaliation, and brutality. Rather than participating in carnal warfare with carnal weapons for carnal objectives, the Christian is involved in a life and death spiritual war against Satan and his evil allies. This war involves spiritual armor and spiritual weapons. What side will you choose? Questions for Your Consideration Sources for Your Study Some of the following books and pamphlets are available at the present time while a few of them may no longer be in print. If you cannot locate them, please write for further information about their availability. (You may also ask your library to obtain them through inter-library loan.) While each of these publications has merit, we cannot endorse all of the contents. William Paul, A Christian View of Armed Warfare! (P.O. Box 30526, Seattle, WA 98103). Everett Ferguson, Early Christians Speak (ACU Press, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, TX 79699). H. Leo Boles, The New Testament Teaching on War (Gospel Advocate Company, 1006 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37210). War: A Trilogy, Three Perspectives—One Biblical Position (Star Bible Publications, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas 76182). Handbook for Conscientious Objectors (Central Committee for Conscientious Objectors, 2208 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146). J. C. Wenger, Separated unto God (Christian Light Publications, P.O. Box 1212, Harrisonburg, VA 22801-1212). Guy Franklin Hershberger, War, Peace, and Nonresistance (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). John H. Yoder, What Would You Do? (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). David Lipscomb, Civil Government (Gospel Advocate Company, 1006 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37210). John Driver, How Christians Made Peace with War (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). Duane Ruth-Heffelbower, The Christian and Jury Duty (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). Lois Barrett, The Way God Fights (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). John Horsch, The Principle of Nonresistance as Held by the Mennonite Church (Eastern Mennonite Publishing, Ephrata, PA). Bennie Lee Fudge, Can a Christian Kill for His Government? (C.E.I. Publishing Co., Athens, AL). Jean-Michel Hornus, It Is Not Lawful For Me to Fight (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). Roland H. Bainton, Christian Attitudes Toward War and Peace (Abingdon Press, Nashville, TN). Joyce Miller, War-Torn Valley (Rod and Staff Publishers, P.O. Box 3, Hwy. 172, Crockett, KY 41413-0003). Aaron M. Shank, Studies in the Doctrine of Nonresistance (Rod and Staff Publishing, P.O. Box 3, Hwy. 172, Crockett, KY 41413-0003). Kniss, Why I Couldn’t Fight (Christian Light Publications, P.O. Box 1212, Harrisonburg, VA 22801). Lee M. Rogers, God and Government (Lee M. Rogers, Sheffield, AL). Richard Hollerma

Saint, Let me offer something that will really help a new Christian, and hopefully be a nice tune up for a pre-existing believer in Yeshua. So, if you want Light from God, then you have to get this revelation inside you, first, that im going to show you. This one..... You have to get this one....in the beginning of your walk with Christ... ..You absolutely must get this revelation of the Grace of God, or you will never be able to move deeper into the Light of the word of God as found in the New Testament. Questions ::: Have you ever wondered why there are a gazillion denominations, that all use a Bible, yet none of them agree? Have you ever wondered why there is no "unity" in the Body of Christ, no "same mind", within the worldwide world of all believers? Do you want to know why? Its because this verse posted next, is not known to most believers, and until it is known, and followed by ALL, there will never be any total unity between Christians in the world, on a forum, or between 2 Churches that are on the same STREET. The verse : Hebrews 13:9 : """"" Be not carried away with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with Grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. """ This verse teaches and explains what happened to the Body Of Christ, regarding why you have a ridiculous number of denominations that all disagree regarding "church doctrine". Its simple..... you have to get the foundation LAID PROPERLY< before you can build the HOUSE correctly, so that there is harmony and unity between all Believers in Yeshua Now notice that this verse teaches that "diverse/strange doctrines, and meats", are all the same idea....... And the verse explains what will happen if your heart, (eyes of your understanding).. that receives the light of Revelation", ) is not FIRST ESTABLISHED with GRACE.. = (The understanding regarding God's freely given Righteousness.) What happens is that all who are not established within their Heart by GRACE, will be carried away, caught up, confused by, and lost inside of HERESY.... Which is "divers and STRANGE Doctrine/meats", and there as so many of these around. So many churches built upon them... Millions of Believers caught up in them.... And only because they were not grounded in GRACE, early in their Christian Beginnings. Now, i recognize that some of you are already yawning, as you are an expert in Grace, regarding understanding this central principal of the redemptive work of Jesus's sacrifice on the Cross, and THANK YOU JESUS< that many of you, long ago, "got the revelation". However, and for the benefit of those who didnt and have lived their entire born again lives, so far, trying to earn God's approval by self effort...(Legalism)..> Let me show you why you are already Approved By God, so that you can stop trying to become what you have already become, that God's Grace has already MADE YOU. As you read your bible, you will run across this phrase a lot. "made unto you", and this is a Key Phrase that will help you understand that everything that God has done for you, Thru the Blood of Jesus, has been "made unto you" when you were born again......That is to say... God has REMADE YOU TO BE. Got it? See, Salvation is to be Literally and Spiritually "made into" something BY GOD, that you were not before. Many NT Verses explain this as being "translated from darkness to Light". becoming a "child of the Light". "as Jesus is So are WE on this Earth", " heir with God"... "joint heir with Christ". "New CREATION in Christ", "bone of Jesus bones and flesh of Jesus's flesh"...and on and on. So, you have to see that you have become something by NEW BIRTH that you were not before you were born again, as this is the eternal effect of God's 'made unto you" CHANGE from "Lost" to "saved" , from Christ rejector to "Child of God", from "damned" to "Saint". Now, lets get an understanding of where you go to get what you need to know... You have to know where to look to find what you need to learn. You dont just flip open a New Testament and hope for the best, as that is a waste of time. So, this means we must go to where you find all the info, the doctrinal info, that God wants you to study. Read a paperback. Study a bible. Books are for entertainment. Bibles are for gaining God's Knowledge. The Bible is full of Light. Study is how you turn on the Light for Life. Its the "ON" switch. To do this, you run directly to Paul's epistles. And the reason? Its because Paul's pen, is the direct descendant of the doctrinal information that came straight from the mouth of Jesus The Christ. Paul is the only disciple and the only Apostle whom Jesus personally took aside for a long time, and instructed into him regarding the "first hand" information that rightly divides the Word. You dont get the ultra-fine doctrinal details from Jude, or James, or Mark, or Peter. You get your Bible Doctrine, your Church Doctrine, your lifelong Theolgy from Paul, who received it directly from the Lord, himself. So, what i teach, is what Paul would teach you. As this is what any true Teacher of the Word of God is going to tell you, and teach you. Now, here is a golden nugget for you. If you want to know exactly what Paul wants you to know, that Jesus taught Him, then of course you read all his epistles. Thats a no-brainer... But, and here is what your Pastor, Minister, Pope, and commentary never told you....If you want to know exactly what Paul is going to teach someone in person, a literal disciple of His, then you go and read Timothy 1 & 2, and Titus.. As they are both Paul's converts. So, just become one of Paul's converts, ideally, by reading what he taught Timothy and Titus., as well as what he teaches the Church at large, in his Epistles. As a matter of Fact, if you are called to Teach or Preach or Pastor, then you need to live inside Timothy and Titus and all of Paul's epistles for a while........like in, .......a lifetime. So what does Paul teach about Grace? Well, he teaches that Sin has separated us from God. And this is an eternal problem for each of us, that if not solved, will cause us to end up after we die, separated from God in Eternity. Currently, if you are not born again, you are separated from God by your sin. However, as compared to ending up in Hell then the Lake of Fire, being alive down here and separated from God, is not quit the same level of consequence. So, this problem that we are all born into, has been solved by God. And its Paul who, in the New Testament, teaches us best and most often about the wonderful love of God as expressed as The Grace of God. Salvation, Eternal Life, Redemption, Jesus dying on the Cross, are all an extension of the Love of God as reflected in the Grace of God. The central issue and subject of the New Testament, is RIGHTEOUSNESS. And the central issue between a human being and God is their lack of righteousness and how to get it. God is often accused, falsely, of "sending people to hell", But in fact, its a lack of Righteousness that is the reason that a person will not live eternally where God lives. Hell and Heaven are simply final destinations. They are Eternal choices that someone is going to make, by receiving or by rejecting Christ. One is the home for the Righteous and one is the place that maintains the unrighteous dead, until they meet their final destination. So, this issue of how to get righteousness, is only a problem that God can solve. Our New Testament says that we have all sinned and fallen short of God's righteousness. So, right there, ends any method or means of saving ourselves or keeping ourselves saved. You've noted that on a Christian Forum you always find a busload of heretics trying to make you believe that you are in control of your righteousness, and that you can earn it, and keep it...otherwise you LOSE IT The fact is, you have no Righteousness apart from Christ's because your sinning eliminated your righteousness long ago, and you can never have it again, unless someone gives you theirs. Enter, God. Enter, Jesus. Enter, The Cross. as all these have come to give you Righteousness. ALL this im writing is simply what Paul teaches. He is the Main NT teacher regarding the understanding of the Grace of God as the love of God given by God coming to this earth to meet all the requirements of the law and then die offering us HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, for our sin. Jesus did more on the Cross then just suffer, bleed, and die. He literally became your SIN. 2nd Corinthians 5:21... and If you are born again, then your sin was lifted from you, erased for you, and in its place, you have received "The Righteousness of Christ". Salvation is Christ on a cross becoming your sin and bearing it, sacrificially, so that you will never be judged for it, in eternity. Being SAVED, means you are saved from being Judged in Eternity for your SIN...... Christ bore all your sin, by becoming your sin.... and you were given as a gift, His Righteousness. Maybe sometime you can think about this... God came down from heaven, to become your sin as well as your sin bearer and in doing so He became your Savior.. Jesus said. "Father if possible, let this cup pass from me".. And that cup, is God's wrath, his eternal judgment, poured out on HIMSELF on your behalf. And that my reader, is The Love of God as well as Amazing Grace. <B><

Here is a link to my music that I hope will bring peace and healing to people. www.laurenlehman.com or you can listen on Spotify, Itunes, etc. Below is a link to my song, "Peace Be Still" from my new album, "Peace Be Still." "Peace Be Still, and know that He is God... Come on into His place to seek His face, Peace, Peace, Be Still." Peace Be Still - on Youtube

When I first was born-again and received knowledge that I was a son of God and that I was ALWAYS a son of God I used to believe just as the majority of those in Christendom that the kingdom of God was an actual kingdom with a king, (with a realm or location, with subjects, a royal court, a castle or mansion, etc.), all the fixings of what we all commonly know in this earth as a kingdom. But I was wrong. We were wrong. Christendom was wrong and still is. Matthew 12:28 (KJV) 28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you. Luke 11:20 (KJV) 20 But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. Question: What is Jesus Christ doing? Answer: Jesus Christ is casting out 'devils.' Jesus Christ is, in effect, saying that He is the kingdom of God. A kingdom OF GOD that has come 'unto you.' This 'kingdom' is not the same as the kingdom of heaven. This kingdom (of heaven) does have a king, a realm, a court, subject, etc. Luke 17:20-21 (KJV) 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. The apostle Paul adds to this truth when he says: Romans 14:17 (KJV) 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. The kingdom of God is Christ. Christ is within 'you.' Christ is righteousness, peace, and joy... all the deific attributes of Christ Himself. And flesh has inherited Christ as Promised by God to His people Israel, and spiritual Israel. And this is our inheritance as named souls that were contemplated by God in Trinity in His Mind BEFORE He created heaven earth and man. His Elect people were written in a 'book' of life of the lamb slain from [BEFORE] the foundation (creation) of the world (Rev. 13:8). 1 Corinthians 15:50 (KJV) 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. The unsaved cannot inherit the kingdom of God who is Christ: John 14:17 (KJV) 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. The unsaved who are not named in the book of life of the lamb slain... a.k.a., the world, CANNOT RECEIVE Christ. No way, no how. So, there are two groups of people on the planet, always has been: those in Covenant with God, and those not in Covenant with God. Righteousness = The Father Peace = the Son, the Prince of Peace Joy = the Holy Spirit. Go figure.

I feel I am often seen as an enemy by many, just because I seek to speak things to edify one another and exhort people to stay in the faith and trust in Christ. And I see some people complaining that I am condemning others, judging, and much more. Just because I say things like: Many people are worshiping themselves rather than God. People, do not be friend with sin. It will kill you. If you love to sin when people are not watching, then you are not free in Christ. Am I condemning you in telling you such things?! Or is it because you have things to fix with God?! He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him." - John 3:36 Do not be deceived, only those who do not believe in Him are convicted of sin. "And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me;" - John 16:8-9 Scripture are clear that all who believe in Him are free indeed. Humble yourself, seek repentance, purify your hearts, have faith, believe in Him. "to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me." - Acts 26:18 And give thanks He is still inviting you to repentance, and I mean sincere repentance. Because it is impossible for those who already had been freed to desire the things of the old life, which includes sin. "As a dog returns to his own vomit, So a fool repeats his folly." - Proverbs 26:11 And I am witness that the Lord Jesus sets people free indeed, from ALL sin. You do not have excuse, you just need to humble yourself and seek, repent, turn, and live. "Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die?” says the Lord God, “and not that he should turn from his ways and live?" - Ezekiel 18:23 You are being convicted because you need to seek peace with God and to be reconciled with Him, in truth. If people cannot edify, exhort, and speak truth inside the Church anymore then where can it be done?! "But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all." - 1 Corinthians 14:24 In the name of the Lord Jesus: Seek peace with God! REPENT, TURN, AND LIVE! "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord" - Hebrews 12:14 God bless you in Jesus' name!

Psalm 104: 1,4,30 - "Bless the Lord, O my soul, O Lord my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honor and majesty. Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire. Thou sendest forth thy Spirit." Prayer: LORD JESUS, YOU ARE THE ONE WHO WALKS SILENTLY IN THE INNERMOST SANCTUARY OF MY SOUL. SO CAREFULLY YOU WEAVE YOURSELF INTO THE FIBERS OF MY BEING. TOUCH ME WITH YOUR CLEANSING, RENEWING FIRE. AFFIRMATIONS: I set myself on God’s altar today to allow myself to be consumed by His fire of purging and His fire of love. I refuse to allow the move of God in me to be miscarried. "You yourselves write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's signet ring; for whatever is written in the king's name and sealed with the king's signet ring no one can revoke." - Esther 8:8 Jesus became a curse for us, so we don't have to live under a curse. He was the master of divine reversal. All He did demonstrated God's power to turn death to life, sickness to health, lackto blessing, etc. We have been given the power to act as intercessors -- those called to get in the way of the enemy's plan. We need to decree our freedom and our blessing and extend that freedom to others by reversing the curses of darkness. We need to write a new decree! The enemy has declared things over our personal lives, over the Church today and over our nations. He is filling the airwaves in the spirit realm and in the natural realm with decrees of fear, death, defeat, destruction, and intimidation. This is an Esther moment! We must make a decree in prayer. Write it down. Let it be your confession. We must decree God's Word in truth knowing the penetrating power of truth can make others free. We must change our language to speak what God is declaring. We must allow our prophetic words to be in our mouths as decrees. Say what God says! Job 22:28 says, "You shall decree a thing and it shall be established for you, so light will shine upon your way."In this time of great darkness in the earth, the people of God need to flood the atmosphere with decrees that bring life and light which will drive out death and darkness. Galatians 5:22,23 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Peace is Spirit power. Your peace, your immovable stand upon the Word of God is a sign that you are positioned correctly in perfect submission to the will of God. The very fact that you are not frightened by your adversary is a sign that you have authority over him. Prayer: LORD, THANK YOU FOR SOWING YOUR SPIRIT AND WORD INTO MY LIFE. THANK YOU FOR THE LIFE OF GOD THAT IS FLOWING UP FROM MY SPIRIT RIGHT NOW, PRODUCING THE LIFE AND THE NATURE OF JESUS CHRIST IN ME! ALBERT FINCH MINISTRYhttp://afministry.ning.com

As we are called to step out into areas that are beyond our comfort zone, we may feel as if we are floundering for a season. Yet God has called us to walk in His peace and JOY and to BRING HIS KINGDOM TO EARTH in each situation. We could easily fall into discouragement if we do not stand in God's encouragement. And part of the way He fills and refreshes us is through His spirit of JOY. Joy in the midst of heavy world situations. Joy in the midst of tragic circumstances. Joy in the midst of serious situations and huge challenges. WE CAN BE A SIGN AND A WONDER We can be a sign and a wonder to those around us as we walk in His SUPERNATURAL JOY. And when the essence of this joy touches other lives, people will be drawn to know the source of our joy, Jesus Himself. We need to EXPERIENCE THIS PLACE WHERE GOD CAN INVADE OUR SOULS and impart doses of His supernatural joy much more often than we currently do. Remember that when Paul teaches on the fruit of the Spirit, joy comes second in the list! Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is...JOY! PERSONAL APPLICATION SOAK IN HIS PRESENCE. Refresh yourself in Him. FOCUS ON JESUS AND HIS LOVE TOWARDS YOU, and let Him remind you of the many blessings that He brings to your life. As you set your mind on things above, you will receive your fill-up of joy. Walking in supernatural peace is definitely a demonstration of the Kingdom of God. We must be challenged to walk in supernatural joy, to PRESS-IN TO THE SPIRIT, find His joy there, and then walk in it, no matter what situation we find ourselves in. The message of "Good tidings of great joy" is not for the Christmas season only. Because of Him, we can walk in great joy--"Joy unspeakable and full of glory" right here and right now. "There are river fountains that splash joy, cooling God's city, the holy place where the Most High dwells" (Psalms 46:4). Let's tap into that supernatural river of joy! Let's get swallowed up in a spirit of joy. In delighting in the Lord. In rejoicing in His Presence. And in bringing His Kingdom of joy down here on earth as it is in Heaven. SCRIPTURE MEDITATIONS: Psalms 16, Psalms 46, Psalms 37, Romans 14:17, Luke 15:10, Galatians 5:22, Philippians 4 ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY http://afministry.ning.com

Forever - Kari Jobe - Drum Cover by Daniel Quartararo Daniel Quartararo covers Forever by Kari Jobe on the drums! God loves you dearly, no matter who you are! Please just ask Jesus to prove Himself to you if you do not know Him! Ask Him to forgive you. Ask Him to give you a heart to turn away from sin. Ask Him to make you whole, and righteous, and worthy of everlasting life by accepting the blood that He shed on the cross for your sins. No, no good works will do, but good works will be evidence of your faith, as you follow God's plan for your life! But it starts by reaching out to God; to Jesus Christ, and saying, "Lord, I am done with myself, I am done living for me, I want to live for you, I want to live a righteous life and turn from my sin, I want to know you, Jesus, I want to love people like you love people, Jesus!" He will prove Himself! He is God. He is so big and powerful!!! There is no stone He won't overturn in your life to prove Himself to you! He loves you dearly and He wants what's best for you! His plan will fulfill you beyond your wildest imagination, and He will reconcile you to Him through the finished work of the cross; the work that He willing did for you!!!!!!! If you have prayed this prayer; genuinely prayed this prayer, welcome to the family!!!!!!!!!!!! You are now a child of God!!!!!!!!!!!!! And I am here for you in whatever way I can be!!!!! Please don't be a stranger brother or sister in Christ!!!!! And may God bless you, richly, in Jesus' mighty name!!!! Much love to you, in Christ! -Daniel AMEN! I hope you enjoy! Please, share with all your music loving friends! Titus 3:5 - Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Ephesians 2:8-9 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Romans 10:9 - That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Matthew 7:21 - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. John 14:6 - Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Acts 4:12 - Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. John 6:44 - No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. John 15:1-27 - I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Acts 16:30-33 - And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? Psalms 3:8 - Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah. Psalms 37:39 - But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. Psalms 62:1 - (To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David.) Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation. Acts 28:28 - Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it. Romans 6:14 - For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

God Heals at the Gas Station! (Testimony) God loves to work with His children everywhere! Here is a testimony of just that; God working through His faithful servant to heal a man who was clearly in great pain at a GAS STATION of all places! How cool is that?! God is awesome! God bless you all, in Jesus' mighty name!

Hi! My name is Daniel Quartararo, and as I like to say: God is WAY TOO GOOD not to talk with! Now, do you want to confidently recognize the voice of God so you can speak with Him?! I hope you'll take less than 20 minutes to sharpen your discernment and enjoy this video! Take notes, or download and print the PDF of the 14 keys at the end! These are new habits you will want to create! So without further ado, may you enjoy this video and may God bless you, mightily, in Jesus' mighty name! Download PDFs here: http://whatdoyouendupwith.com/hearingGod 14 Keys to Hearing the Voice of God with Overflowing Confidence! ? ? ✝️ ? ?

John 15:7 - "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you." TO ABIDE IN HIM IS TO LIVE IN CEASELESS FUSION WITH HIS PASSIONS. IT IS HIS LIFE, HIS VIRTUE, HIS WISDOM AND HIS SPIRIT WHICH SUSTAIN US. WE BECOME PERFECTLY WEAK, UNABLE TO RESIST HIM. LIKE THE SON'S RELATIONSHIP WITH THE FATHER, SO WE DO NOTHING FROM OUR OWN INITIATIVE UNLESS IT IS SOMETHING WE SEE HIM DO. Affirmations: I AM CONSTRAINED AND GUIDED BY HIS VOICE. I AM SURRENDERED AND IMPRISONED IN HIS LOVE. HIS PRESENCE IS NOT MERELY MY REFUGE, IT IS A PERMANENT ADDRESS. Song of Solomon 2:14 - "O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the secret place of the steep pathway, let me see your form, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your form is lovely." Colossians 3:15 - "And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from the Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts to which as members of Christs one body you were also called to live. And be thankful, giving praise to God always." IF WE ARE IRRITATED AND UPSET ABOUT THINGS IN OUR LIFE IT IS VERY HARD TO RECEIVE QUIET GUIDANCE FROM THE HOLY SPIRIT. SOMETIMES A CERTAIN ACTION IS IN QUESTION; SO WE LET THE PEACE OF CHRIST BE OUR GUIDE. THROUGH THE SUBTLE INWARD WITNESS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT HE GUIDES US TO THE ACTION WE NEED TO TAKE. Affirmations: SINCE I MAINTAIN A THANKFUL, GRATEFUL HEART, I FIND IT EASIER TO HEAR THE "UMPIRE OF PEACE" WHEN HE MAKES A CALL. I DON'T STAY BUSY WITH THE THINGS OF THE WORLD ALL THE TIME - I GIVE TIME AND ATTENTION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. I AM THANKFUL AND GIVE PRAISE TO GOD ALWAYS. "After many days, the word of the Lord came to Elijah in the third year, saying go, show yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain upon the earth. So Elijah went to show himself to Ahab. Now the famine was severe in Samaria." - 1 Kings 18:1-2 In 1 Kings Chapter 18 Elijah knew in his spirit that something was on the horizon. He sent his servant six times to the sea, but he saw nothing. Although on the seventh time he saw a small cloud on the horizon (see verses 41-44). This cloud is coming our way! It's the new Reign from Heaven to fill us with faith, courage, and whatever we need. Whatever you are facing or dealing with, and no matter how hard the situation may be, God has sent the Fire of the Holy Spirit. He equips you to do the work needed. God had hidden many prophets in caves, but TODAY what God is looking for are the aggressive spiritual warriors carrying the Christ truth that cannot be stopped! Everywhere we go we will overcome injustice with His sword of the Holy Spirit (the Word of God). The cloud is on the horizon, and REIGN is on the way to devour and quench darkness. We will see the greatest advancement of God's Kingdom the world has ever seen. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Ephesians 2:17-19 - "And He came and preached peace to you who were far away, and peace to those who were near; for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God's household." IN 2 CORINTHIANS 13:5 WE ARE EXHORTED TO "TEST YOURSELVES TO SEE IF YOU ARE IN THE FAITH; EXAMINE YOURSELVES!" ONE OF THE PRIMARY TESTS OF WHETHER WE ARE CONTINUING ON THE PATH OF LIFE IS BY THE PEACE IN OUR LIFE. JESUS IS THE PRINCE OF PEACE, AND IF WE ARE WALKING CLOSE TO HIM THERE WILL BE A PEACE IN OUR LIFE THAT EXCEEDS ANYTHING THAT CAN BE KNOWN IN THIS WORLD WITHOUT HIM. Things for Me to Consider: IF THERE IS LACK OF PEACE IN MY LIFE, THEN I HAVE DRIFTED FROM HIM. WHAT HAS COME INTO MY LIFE THAT HAS BEGUN TO ECLIPSE MY RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM? 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 - "We realize that being "at home" in the body means that to some extent we are "away" from the Lord, for we have to live by trusting Him without seeing Him. We are so sure of this that we would really rather be "away" from the body and be "at home" with the Lord." Things for Me to Consider: AM I MORE COMFORTABLE WALKING BY FAITH THAN BY WHAT I SEE? AM I BECOMING MORE AT HOME IN THE HEAVENLY REALM THAN IN THE NATURAL? WHERE IS MY HOME? WHEN I THINK OF HOME, WHERE DO I THINK OF FIRST? 2 Corinthians 4:18 -- "While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal." We have two sets of ears and two sets of eyes. We have the "NATURAL SET" that we are born with, and we have a "SPIRITUAL SET" that is activated when we are born again. As we grow spiritually, we begin to see with our spiritual eyes and hear with our spiritual ears. John 5:19 - "Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Many people are discouraged because they feel like their prayers are not being answered; they feel like God has forsaken them! God wants you to understand today that you didn't pray wrong and He's not refusing you! It's not your prayer that's being blocked, it's your answers! Look at what Daniel 10:12-13 says: "Then he continued, 'Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia'" - (Daniel 10:12-13) The minute you started praying, God heard you! He had already answered, but your answer has been delayed because of the princes of resistance that are assigned to stop the manifestation of what God spoke! Because of the weight of what was about to be revealed, the enemy sent a prince to resist the answer God released! God is about to bring you out of the lion's den, out of the darkness of your calamity, and He's going to bring forth His PEACE in your trouble Speak the blessing of the Lord upon your life and declare that supernatural help has come! DECLARE THE FOLLOWING: • I declare that the Prince of Peace, the Lord who made Heaven and Earth, is invading my situation and brings me perfect peace! • I declare that the power of God is being released in my life to make my enemies be at peace with me! • I declare that voice of the Lord is being released into my life to speak peace to every storm that is raging against me! • I declare that Jesus Christ is my peace! I declare every form of separation and division formed between me and my promise is being destroyed by the peace of God that surpasses all understanding! • I declare that the God of peace will crush the enemy under my feet, and that I will walk into the grace of God that will release me into a new season, in Jesus' name! "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." - Hebrews 11:6 Matthew 6:10 - "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." WHEN WE PRAY FOR HIS KINGDOM TO COME, WE ARE ASKING HIM TO SUPERIMPOSE THE RULES, ORDER, AND BENEFITS OF HIS WORLD OVER THIS ONE UNTIL THIS ONE LOOKS LIKE HIS.....GOD'S WORLD COLLIDES WITH THE WORLD OF DARKNESS, AND HIS WORLD ALWAYS WINS. OUR BATTLE IS ALWAYS A BATTLE FOR DOMINION - A CONFLICT OF KINGDOMS. GOD HAS CHOSEN TO WORK THROUGH US. WE ARE HIS DELEGATED AUTHORITY ON PLANET EARTH, AND PRAYER IS THE VEHICLE THAT GIVES OCCASION FOR HIS INVASION. THOSE WHO DON'T PRAY ALLOW DARKNESS TO CONTINUE RULING. THE ENEMY'S GREATEST EFFORTS AT DECEIVING THE CHURCH ARE CENTERED ON DILUTING THE PURPOSE AND EFFECT OF PRAYER. Philippians 3:20 - "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." Paul spoke not about going to heaven someday, but about living as citizens of heaven today......specifically "from" heaven toward earth. We have the privilege of representing heaven "in this world" so that we might bring a manifestation of heaven "to this world." ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Hebrews 4:12 - "For the Word of God is living and powerful.........." For one who has faith in the Word of God, there is nothing impossible. There are no impossibilities when there is faith..........and there are no exceptions....... Our faith in God's word is not just an abiding faith; it is active -- it is aggressive by nature. It has focus and purpose. Faith grabs hold of the reality of the kingdom and forcefully and violently brings it into a collision with this natural one. An inferior kingdom cannot stand. Matthew 11:12 - "And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force." Romans 10:17 - "So then faith comes by hearing and hearing, by the Word of God. Philippians 1:28 - "Don't be afraid of your enemies; always be courageous, and this will prove to them that they will lose and that you will win because it is God who gives you the victory." PEACE IS SPIRIT POWER. YOUR PEACE, YOUR IMMOVABLE STAND UPON THE WORD OF GOD IS A SIGN THAT YOU ARE POSITIONED CORRECTLY IN PERFECT SUBMISSION TO THE WILL OF GOD. THE VERY FACT THAT YOU ARE NOT FRIGHTENED BY YOUR ADVERSARY IS A SIGN THAT YOU HAVE AUTHORITY OVER HIM. Isaiah 54:2 -- "Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitations; spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes." To walk in our DESTINY we must learn new ways and walk out of the old ways and comfort zones of the past. Now is the time to enlarge, stretch, lengthen, strengthen, spread abroad, resettle, inherit and inhabit the new places. It is time to let go of the old and reach for the new, embracing the high calling of God in our lives, to win souls and DISCIPLE new believers. The Holy Spirit has a divine plan. He will lead and guide us into the new by teaching us how to walk in resurrection power. Like Esther, we were created for such a time as this. AFFIRMATION: I ask largely so that my joy may be full. John 16:23,24 -- "In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you. Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full." ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

1 Corinthians 1:9 - "God is faithful (reliable, trustworthy, and therefore ever true to His promise, and He can be depended on)." SEEDS OF AFFIRMATION, MEDITATION, PRAYER, WORKS, GIVING AND OTHER ACTS OF OBEDIENCE ARE READY TO BURST FORTH IN BUD AND FRUIT. HARVEST AWAITS THOSE WHO DO NOT YIELD TO DISCOURAGEMENT AND REMAIN CONSISTENT IN OBEDIENCE AND DILIGENCE. GRASSHOPPERS OF DISCOURAGEMENT WILL ASSAULT US WHEN WE'RE WEARY. OUR STRENGTH IS DIMINISHED WHEN WE ALLOW OUR MINDS TO ENTERTAIN AND DWELL ON INFORMATION AVAILABLE TO OUR SENSES. WHEN FOCUSED ON THE TURMOIL AND UPHEAVAL OF THE TEMPORAL WE'LL BE OVERWHELMED. IT WILL NOT BRING US STRENGTH, BUT DRAIN US. CONDITIONS AND CIRCUMSTANCES WILL COUNSEL US TO GIVE UP. Affirmations: MY SEASON OF HARVEST AWAITS ME! I DON'T ALLOW THE GRASSHOPPER OF DISCOURAGEMENT TO DESTROY ALL I'VE SOWN. GOD'S PROMISE IS SURE AND BACKED BY HIS CHARACTER. Psalm 89:8 - "O Lord God Almighty! Where is there anyone as mighty as you, Lord? Faithfulness is your very character." 1 Corinthians 15:4,6 - "And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures. After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once." BEFORE YOU CAN RECEIVE THE FIRE OF THE SPIRIT, YOU MUST WANT IT. PERHAPS THAT IS WHY ONLY 120 APPEARED OUT OF 500 BRETHREN IN THE UPPER ROOM. Matthew 5:6 - "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." "Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find REST IN THE SHADOW of the Almighty." - Psalm 91:1 "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I fear no evil, for You are with me." - Psalm 23:4 It's not about death's shadow. It's about God Who is OVERSHADOWING us. Wherever we go and whatever we do, God is there. We find protection under His SHADOW. "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose THOUGHTS ARE FIXED ON YOU." - Isaiah 26:3 If we constantly look at how bad a situation is, peace will elude us. If we always wonder. "What are we going to do?" or "How are we going to make it? -- fear will grip our hearts. Peace comes when the eyes of our heart are FIXED ON JESUS - - the Author and Finisher of our faith. No matter what happens in the world, we can live without fear. We can enjoy life for we have been given a spirit of love, power, and a sound mind. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Psalm 27:8 - "You have said, Seek my presence. My heart says to You, Your presence, Lord, will I seek, inquire for, and require." Observation: MATURITY STARTS AS I BREAK THE CYCLE OF SEEKING GOD ONLY DURING HARDSHIP; HOLINESS BEGINS THE MOMENT I SEEK GOD FOR HIMSELF. I SEEK TO ABIDE WITH CHRIST, WHERE I AM CONTINUALLY AWARE OF HIS FULLNESS WITHIN ME, WHERE HIS PRESENCE DWELLS IN ME IN GLORY. Psalm 16:11 - "You will show me the path of life: in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore." Galatians 5:22,23 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Peace is Spirit power. Your peace, your immovable stand upon the Word of God is a sign that you are positioned correctly in perfect submission to the will of God. The very fact that you are not frightened by your adversary is a sign that you have authority over him. Prayer: LORD, THANK YOU FOR SOWING YOUR SPIRIT AND WORD INTO MY LIFE. THANK YOU FOR THE LIFE OF GOD THAT IS FLOWING UP FROM MY SPIRIT RIGHT NOW, PRODUCING THE LIFE AND THE NATURE OF JESUS CHRIST IN ME! Psalm 104: 1,4,30 - "Bless the Lord, O my soul, O Lord my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honor and majesty. Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire. Thou sendest forth thy spirit." Prayer: LORD JESUS, YOU ARE THE ONE WHO WALKS SILENTLY IN THE INNERMOST SANCTUARY OF MY SOUL. SO CAREFULLY YOU WEAVE YOURSELF INTO THE FIBERS OF MY BEING. TOUCH ME WITH YOUR CLEANSING, RENEWING FIRE. AFFIRMATIONS: I set myself on God’s alter today to allow myself to be consumed by His fire of purging and His fire of love. I refuse to allow the move of God in me to be mis-carried. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Galatians 5:16 - "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh." He has put an unlimited potential within us by His Spirit. Don't think about what you can't do. Think about what you can do through Christ. Exercising faith to fulfill your call will always result in permanent spiritual results - "fruit which remains" measured by the lives you have dramatically changed. Affirmations: I AM DEVELOPING MY OWN HUMAN SPIRIT, AND I AM BECOMING MORE SENSITIVE TO THE SPIRIT OF GOD. I HAVE ACCEPTED THE CALL OF GOD TO LEAVE THE LOW LIFE BEHIND, AND I AM FOLLOWING THE SPIRIT OF GOD TO A HIGHER REALM, WHERE I WILL LIVE IN CONTINUAL PEACE, JOY, AND VICTORY. Luke 18:9 - "He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others." Like all expeditions, my journey starts with a departure. Long before I ever arrive at holiness, I must depart from self-righteousness and pride. Romans 6:18 - "Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." Affirmations: SINCE I HAVE GIVEN MY LIFE TO JESUS, THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD HAS BEEN IMPARTED TO ME. BECAUSE THROUGH JESUS, I RECEIVED GOD'S NATURE. SIN AND THE DOMINION OF SATAN CANNOT HAVE AUTHORITY OVER ME BECAUSE JESUS IS MY LORD. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Luke 18:1 - "Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up." Since He has given humanity authority over the earth, He requires the permission or authorization of mankind in order to act on the earth. This is why, when we stop praying, we allow God's purposes for the word to be hindered. Matthew 16:19 - "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven ; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." AFFIRMATIONS: I bind and cast out those things that are unfruitful and I loose the blessings of God in my life through the confession of His word. (Matthew 16:19) Since I live vitally united to Jesus and his words continue to live in my heart, I ask whatever I will, and it shall be done for me. (John 15:7) I continually ask, seek, and knock concerning the things God has prepared for me because Jesus says I will receive, find, and it will be opened for me. (Matthew 7:7,8) 2 Peter 3:14 - "With this to look forward to, do your utmost to be found at peace with Him, unblemished and above reproach in his sight." Observation: WE WANT A PEACE THAT TEMPORARILY COMFORTS AND CODDLES BECAUSE WE DO NOT LIKE TO BE CHALLENGED OR CHANGED. THE PEACE THAT FLOWS INTO US FROM THE LORD SATISFIES THE SOUL WITH FULL ASSURANCE THAT HE IS STILL FOR US, EVEN AS WE ARE BEING TAKEN THROUGH FIRE - IN WHICH WE CAN BE CHANGED INTO HIS LIKENESS. 2 Corinthians 3:18 - "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord." Proverbs 8:10 - "Receive my instruction and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold." Observation: MY IGNORANCE IS THE ONLY WEAPON THE ENEMY CAN USE AGAINST ME. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Philippians 1:28 - "Don't be afraid of your enemies; always be corageous, and this will prove to them that they will lose, and that you will win because it is God who gives you the victory." Peace is Spirit power. Your peace, your immovable stand upon the Word of God is a sign that you are positioned correctly in perfect submission to the will of God. The very fact that you are not frightened by your adversary is a sign that you have authority over him. Isaiah 26:3 - "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee." PEACE IS NOT THE ABSENCE OF CONFLICT, IT IS THE ABSENCE OF INNER CONFLICT. Romans 8:6 - "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace." Galatians 5:22 - "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith" UNDERSTANDING OUR SPECIFIC CALLING Ephesians 1:4 - "He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. In love." MAN IS CALLED TO REST IN GOD, BUT WE MUST ALSO LABOR WITH GOD. IN THIS LABOR, WE MUST FIND WHAT HE CREATED US TO DO. Man is called to rest in God, but we must also labor with God. In this labor, we must find what He created us to do. God who is so particular and specific knew what He was creating us for before the world was even created. We each have a very specific job to do -- a very specific CALLING. We will never know a true peace and fulfillment in our hearts until we are doing our CALLING in Christ. THE PEACE OF CHRIST IN OUR SPIRIT IS OUR GUIDE Colossians 3:15 - "And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from the Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts to which as members of Christs one body you were also called to live. And be thankful, giving praise to God always." If we are irritated and upset about things in our life it is very hard to receive quiet guidance from the Holy Spirit. Sometimes a certain action is in question; so we let the peace of Christ be our guide. Through the subtle inward witness of the Holy Spirit He guides us to the action we need to take. Revelation 4:6 - "And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal." The source of God's Peace is God Himself. The glass sea is a symbol: there are no ripples, no waves, no anxieties troubling God. The Lord is never worried never in a hurry nor without an answer. The sea around Him is perfectly still and totally calm. All our victories flow out from being seated here with Him. 2 Peter 3:14 - "With this to look forward to, do your utmost to be found at peace with Him, unblemished and above reproach in his sight." CHALLENGED AND CHANGED We want a peace that temporarily comforts and coddles because we do not like to be challenged or changed. The peace that flows into us from the Lord satisfies the soul with full assurance that He is still for us, even as we are being taken through fire -- in which we can be changed into His likeness. 2 Corinthians 3:18 - "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord." Galatians 5:16 - "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh." Affirmations: I AM DEVELOPING MY OWN HUMAN SPIRIT, AND I AM BECOMING MORE SENSITIVE TO THE SPIRIT OF GOD. I HAVE ACCEPTED THE CALL OF GOD TO LEAVE THE LOW LIFE BEHIND, AND I AM FOLLOWING THE SPIRIT OF GOD TO A HIGHER REALM, WHERE I WILL LIVE IN CONTINUAL PEACE, JOY, AND VICTORY. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

1 Corinthians 2:9 - "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him." God gave Jesus a heaping helping of joy, peace, health and prosperity for each believer on the earth. Jesus deposited too much in each one of our accounts. Now, if we want it we've got to make a withdrawal. Faith is the withdrawal slip. Psalm 91:1 - "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." When I fail to enter the Secret Place, my pride and self-sufficiency have been documented. Mark 11:24 - "Therefore I say unto you, what things soever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them." Affirmations: I KEEP THE SWITCH OF FAITH TURNED ON. WHEN I BELIEVE I RECEIVE -- FAITH IS RELEASED. I DON’T HAVE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. I DON’T HAVE TO FEEL IT HAPPEN. IT JUST HAPPENS. THE REBORN SPIRIT IS MADE THAT WAY. Mark 5:36 - "Be not afraid, only believe." ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Colossians 3:15 - 'Let the peace of God rule in your heart...' A very fundamental way God speaks to individual believers is through His peace. Too often we take the peace of God for granted. God's peace is that eternal tranquilizer that governs our being. Romans 5:1 -- 'Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace WITH GOD through our Lord Jesus Christ.' Ephesians 2:13,14 -- 'But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been made near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of division between us.' There is a difference between having: 1. The peace of God and, 2. Having peace with God Any born-again believer who loves God and desires to serve Him has peace WITH God. This is simply part of the blood covenant. His peace is part of the package. But a common way God speaks to the believer is through the "peace OF God", or lack thereof, concerning specific situations: Colossians 3:15 (Amp) -- 'And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from the Christ rule (act as an umpire continually) in your hearts -- deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds -- (in that peaceful state) to which (as members of Christ's one body you were called (to live). And be thankful -- appreciative, giving praise to God always.' THE HOLY SPIRIT DECLARES PEACE TO OUR SPIRIT The Holy Spirit within is that Heavenly Umpire who continaully declares peace -- or lack of peace. When a Christian may express concerning a decision, 'I just don't have peace about it.' He is not saying he does not have peace WITH God, but that he lacks the peace OF God concerning the specific decision he is trying to make. At other times, when a decision has to be made, the Holy Spirit within may give a tremendous inundation of peace that gives assurance to the believer. This overwhelming peace is indicatation that the decision is in the will of God. THE ABSENCE OF PEACE IS THE ABSENCE OF CONFIRMATION When we walk with God and begin to turn the wrong way, we may immediately sence something lacking. We know His presence is mysteriously missing. We should be sensitive to that lack of peace. As we walk in the Spirit, we should take note when His Presence is missing and turn around. Then ask why. He will reveal the reason. The peace OF God, or the absence of His peace is the voice of the Lord. It is clearly one way He communicates to every child of God. ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

l. What is the Kingdom of God? Answer: Your spirit in union with God and the laws that govern that spirit realm. "For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." -Romans 14:17 "Jesus answered and said to him, 'Truly,truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.'" - John 3:3 "The kingdom of God does not come visibly, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'there it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you." - Luke 17:20,21 2. Is it God's will for us to experience life as it is in the Kingdom of God? Answer: Find answer in the scriptures. "But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you...for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom." - Luke 12;31,32 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ." -Ephesians 1:3 "And raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus." - Ephesians 2:6 3. What law governs the Kingdom of God? Answer: Find answer in the scriptures. "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death." - Romans 8:2 "If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the spirit." - Galatians 5:25 4. What is the righteousness of God? Answer: The ability to stand in the presence of God without the sense of sin, guilt, or inferiority. "Jesus has cleared the way by the blood of his sacrifice, acting as our priest before God. The 'curtain' into God's presence is his body... -- full of belief, confident that we're presentable inside and out." - Hebrews 10:21,22 The Message "Therefore there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." - Romans 8:1 5. How do we receive His righteousness? Answer: We receive our righteousness by faith in the substitutionary sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. "Adams sin brought punishment to all but Christ's righteousness makes men right with God, so that they can live." - Romans 5:18 "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." - Romans 3:22 "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." - 2 Corinthians 5:21 INTO ACTION: Affirm and meditate on the indicated scriptures several times daily until the renewing of your mind is made real to your spirit. AFFIRMATIONS: The Kingdom of God -- which is righteousness, and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit -- is within me. (Luke 17:21 & Romans 14:17) As I seek the Kingdom of God, all things God has for me will be added. (Luke 12:30-32) Since I am in Christ Jesus, God has made available to me wisdom, righteousness and sanctification, and redemption through faith in the blood of Jesus. (Romans 3:25) ALBERT FINCH MINSITRY