Thursday, October 11, 2007

A Word for Today!!

Just a note:

This morning was a wonderful time with God. Quiet, alone, and yet full of His presence. On my computer, I have a daily devotional, this has been in there for the longest, but on this day, I was greeted by the Lord through it, in a way I have never before seen. With this devotional, I take it as the Word of the Lord for today, a Word straight from God. It was simple, short, and to the point. All it said was.....

.........launch out into the deep.......... (Luke 5:4)

With that..... Enough said.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

"THESE HANDS" New CD

This year has been a busy year, starting off with the release of "Revive Us" late December 2006. Then "Destiny Blues" April 2007. Going back into the studio and beginning the process of a third CD, "These Hands" another in a trilogy of CD's that has now been released.

All three have their own direction and vision, yet "These Hands" has a message, one that is loud and clear. Early on, while recording, writers block, was a major problem. Yet the desire to write and produce a project was deep in the heart. Through the process of looking at new songs, old songs, and a couple that were written by other artists, the project "wasn't" taking shape. In that, it was, in all actuality "shelved." In and through prayer, God spoke to my heart and said, "Your in the way of this project." Meaning, that, as it was, it was just another CD. With which the decision was made to shelve what had been recorded at that point.

By leaving the project alone, and simply "getting out of the way" God began showing and revealing the vision that was to take place for this project. The CD was to be two fold, a stretch musically for myself as a musician, and secondly, an evangelical outreach. With a message of salvation, repentance, healing, and deliverance. With which song by song, more was added to bring about this vision.

The music on the CD, each song with its own message and each with its own background and challenge. A small tract, with short statements, as well as challenges to examine oneself in light of the salvation God offers through Jesus Christ was printed up for the Jcard insert. Becoming a new step in outreach opportunities. The vision, being pure and true outreach of heart, from God the Father to the listener, young and old.

The prayer challenge of the project became a very interesting approach to writting music. In one case, a prayer of "Lord, of the times I deliberately walked away from you, maybe thumbed my nose at you. When I thought I was right in my thinking, but very wrong in my walk. What was the cry of my heart?" Became a very hard step for writting a song, very emotional, and through which I personally learned that the love of God was bigger and deeper than I had ever concieved. With which a new revelation of Jesus was given to me, to which I found myself falling to my knees and being thankful for.

Two of the songs, have a strong approach of, "Be Not Decieved" by any who would come "as an angel of light" and lead many astray. Also, in this message that maybe we ourselves are to complacent in our walk, that we may have decieved ourselves. These two songs come on hard with the message of "be a man" stand strong against such things!! Yet another song, "Breakthrough" comes with a heavy rock sound, but a message of much depth, a message of "An invisible prison.. without a guard, 'because the jailer is me.'" Pointing to a fact that many times, through vicious cycles and or habits, we place ourselves in prison. Maybe through "unforgiveness" of others, or of ourselves, the jailer in charge of the prison door, is ourselves. Deliverance, is only through Jesus Christ.

"These Hands" as a project, has become a spiritual journey of even my own examination. There is an excitement for this CD, simply because of the fact it is strong with a message of salvation in and through Jesus Christ. Our prayers are that it will and can be used to reach the hearts and souls of many who need His love and His grace, maybe His healing and His deliverance.

Please prayer with us over this project. God richly bless you!!

Saturday, September 1, 2007

The Spirit and Truth of the Matter

John 4:23-24
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshiper will worship the Father in the Spirit and in Truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in Truth.

Spirit and Truth

We must worship God with reverence, attentiveness, having a right purpose of honoring God, while understanding what we are doing. Our mind must be ready, attentive and alert. Our hearts open and ready to recieve, but even more, our willingness to be in His presence, and our desire for His presence.

True worship is knowing, "We were bought with a price...." It is knowing what God has done for each and everyone of us through the Cross of Christ. That we have a Recovery Program, that places us back where we need to be with Him. ABIDING with Him, ENCOUNTERING Him, and through His Word, DISCOVERY of Who He is! Or His REVEALING Himself to us.

We RECOVER to DISCOVER.

The Spirit and Truth of the matter is, God desires and is committed to come to people who will be open to Him and invite Him into their lives and in their hearts. Realization of the fullness of God, is the purpose of true worship. Being open to His presence is the step needed in so doing.

Seeing then, that "we were bought with a price, (we should therefore) glorify God in our body and in our spirit which are His" (1 Corinthians 6:20).

He will ABIDE with you

John 14:15-16
If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and BE WITH YOU, ABIDE WITH YOU, FOREVER, the Spirit of Truth.

The proper temple for the indwelling Spirit of Jesus is a heart filled with love for Him and a heart that is living actively for Him. The beautiful thing here, is that with a heart that is open to Him, in His dwelling in us, He says "He will NEVER go away or leave us."

John 14:18
I will not leave you a orphans, I will come to you

He will not leave us in a bereaved or desolate condition.

Matthew 28:20
And surely I am with you, always, to the very end of the age...

Hebrews 13:5
Because God has said, NEVER will I leave you, NEVER will I forsake you.

This is His promise to us. It is the Spirit and Truth of the matter. He will neither withdraw His presence from a heart in love with Him, and one who is active in living for Him. Nor will He withdraw His help, His guiding hand. This is a realization of the fullness of God in our lives! He wants us to know Him! He wants us to experience Him! He wants us to draw near to Him! Now, we have to be committed and desiring to ALLOW Him full access to our lives. We can not be half way open to Him, it has to be ALL the way open!

He desires to ENCOUNTER us! He wants to REVEAL to us a full REVELATION of His fullness in our lives!

Many spend all their monies seeking REHAB, rehab is good, dont get me wrong. I know of several programs that are greatly needed and do well with the people whom they work with. But the greatest "Recovery Program" is the one led and guided by God Himself. His turn around rate is 100%. By that I am saying He can and will completely turn you around and the path of life and set you on a "sure foundation." All that is required is an open and willing heart and spirit. This is the Spirit and truth of REAL worship as well. It is because He loves each and everyone of us so much, He gave everything for us! Think about it!

Monday, July 9, 2007

"Sing and Play Skillfully a New Song"

Psalm 33:1-3
Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise Him. Praise the Lord with the harp, make music on the ten-stringed lyre. Sing to Him a new song, play skillfully, and shout for joy.

The greatest joy and most fulfilling thing for me is to just love the Lord. Love Him in song, love him while playing my guitar, either with a crowd or by myself. To me, the ultimate love-song, is the one song for Him. The song that, with all heart, shouts praise and worship, from a heart of love to the King of kings, Lord of lords, my Savior Jesus Christ. The song that tells of the love of the Father, that tells of the leading of the Holy Spirit.

But These Songs Are New Everyday

The real beauty in this, is that the songs are not on tape, are not recorded on CD. These songs give birth in the heart, fresh and new everyday. Now as they are birthed, they may become a song that gets recorded, and maybe not a recorded song, maybe just a time of intimate worship with God. But there is one main thing to know, there is also a continual practice of worship that is non-stop. Learning to play "SKILLFULLY" the song of the heart for God. A skillfull player, has had much practice. Practice on learning the instrument in his hands. Stretching in all areas of playing. Same goes with the song, learning to be skillfull in worship, skillfull in our praise. Worship is a day by day love song to the Lord. It is more than music, it is a life-style.

The New Song

With the Lord, each day is fresh and new! With the Lord, our walk is given depth by the worship and praise of our mouths and our hearts. The song is new, because with each day, the skillfull worshiper, finds a new revelation of the fullness of His love. He finds a new reason to bow at the foot of the Savior and raise holy hands and surrender to His awesomeness. With each day, he finds a new revelation that draws him into a deeper relationship with the King of kings. This is because of the deeper understanding of His forgiveness, His healing touch, His deliverance, His love. So the "New Song" finds "New Words and New Meaning." It is a new song of love for the Father.

My grandson, Tucker, has a song he sings which has new meaning with each time I hear him singing it. "All uh ooooh" the most beautiful words that can be sang. It will turn the heart of any who are the recipients of that song. The focus of his heart in that three word song has no question on his meaning. "All uh oooh" simply, "I love you."

The Call to Praise and Worship

This passage from the Psalms is a call to praise and worship! It is a call that is reverberated again by Paul.

Ephesians 5:19
Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.

This is a call to allow the song of your heart come forth. You need not be an accomplished singer for this, you just need a heart full of love for the Father. You just need a desire to tell Him of all your love and desire for Him. It is every kind of appropriate song, whether psalms like those of the Old Testament, or hymns directed to God or other contemporary songs that sing of His love and His greatness. It is simply the song in your heart whether written or not. It sings for joy and shouts out to the Lover of our souls.

One day recently, while watching a video of a musician, Yanni, who has written many songs that cause the heart to be happy, joyful, whose music can draw on the strings of your heart, cause you to cry out of love, out of security and peace. It was a statement made by a friend with me, "In just watching him, he reeks of music, his whole body, his movements, and the look in his eyes is a song." Yes, you could see and feel the music coming from his soul. But even while watching this, I thought to myself, the hours of practice, the hours of learning to play this song skillfully. I thought of the mastering of the "Art" of that song, the mastering of the "True Heart" of that song. Does your true heart song say, "All uh oooh"?

Have you mastered the "Art" of the song of the heart? Have you mastered the "True Heart" of the song? You might even say, but I am not a musician, I dont play. Thats not what I am saying here. I am speaking of learning to master the skillfull playing of the heart in worship to the Father. Yes, it is heightened when one plays an instrument. But even non-players, have a song. Even non-singers have a song. One beautiful thing God has given each and everyone of us is a voice, and funny too, a whistle. Do you walk around whistling by chance? God has given each and everyone a way of expressing our heart to Him of our love for Him. Even with a whistle can a song of praise and worship be skillfull played, because its from the heart.

I am reminded of a statement made by Joel Osteen about his father, who would walk around whistling because of the joy in his heart. When he was told the song he whistled was the theme from Andy Griffith, his response was, it is the song I am feeling to sing right now, but the real joy is the song I am singing to the Father.

What is your song? What does your heart sing to the Father? Then , as the psalmist said, "Shout for Joy" this song in your heart! What is your song? Once again, I have to ask, Does your song say, "All uh oooh?"

Wednesday, July 4, 2007

"The Heart of God"

Luke 15 "Parables on the Heart of God"

Jesus told parables that countered out confused picture of God the Father. In three of these parables, Jesus dealt with our inclination to focus more on our guilt than on God's grace.

"The Parable of the Lost Sheep" (Luke 15:1-7)

It reveals that in the heart of God "No one is Unimportant." God is never so preoccupied with "saved" people that He is unconcerned about the one who is at risk. Instead, he will leave the 99 and go find that one sheep. When found, He carries that sheep back to the fold.

In one major way, this is our reason for Praise and Worship. We have a Savior, a Shepherd, our Lord Jesus Christ, who cares so much about us, He reaches out continually to bring us in. WE have a great need to understand that we are each and every one, a precious sheep in His eyes!

Notice close, "And when he finds it, he JOYFULLY puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors and says, 'Rejoice with me, I have found my lost sheep." There is in no way an attitude of exclusiveness in God's heart. In other words, when others will not reach out, He will. When love is in short supply, His is full. There is great joy in God's heart, as there is great joy in heaven, each time a lost sheep is found.

Yes, this speaks of sinners, turning from their way, and coming to the Lord. But, also, this is sheep who already are in the fold, and wander off, slip and slide on the roadside, and are led astray by some circumstance or situtaion. His heart rejoices over the fact, we are IMPORTANT and the fact that we are FOUND. We are never "unimportant."

"The Parable of the Lost Coin" (Luke 15:8-10)

Here, we learn and see God's glad anticipation of being "REUNITED" in a working partnership with us. We need to learn that the reason for the woman's eagerness to find the lost coin is that it was on the order of an engagement ring, a part of a set of 10 coins woven together as a necklace at her wedding. That coin, speaks of her value to her husband. Who she is in his eyes.
It also, speaks the same from her father, in the same way.

Note close, the significance is that often, shamed by our sin, we may run and hide from God, oblivious to His love but also unaware that He sees us as desirable, needed to complete a set. He has plans that include us, and without us, His plan is crippled. The rejoicing, is because we are desired and valued by the Father's heart.

"The Parable of the Lost Son" (Luke 15:11-24)

Here we see God's plans for "Complete Restoration." This is a glimpse into God's heart, revealing a Father who is WAITING for the son's return. He does not make the son grovel at his feet, does not half heartedly accept the son's approach, and he does not hold him at an arm's length to test him for sincerity. Instead, he gives a warm, glad and immediate embrace, the best robe, gold ring, sandals and a jubilant "welcome home" party.

The heart of the Father is this, Glad and rejoicing that you are home!

Here are three reasons for our need of Praise and Worship. Three reasons that show His love and care, as well as His concern for us personally! You are greatly loved! You are desired!
You are Needed! God's heart is about each and everyone of us individually, and includes us into His plans. You are the apple of His eye!

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

You Just Cannot be Silent Anymore!



With Such Love the Father Reached out For You.

With the Father doing this for each and everyone of us, why are we so silent? Why are we asleep when we need so much to be awake to all that is going on around us? So many desire with everything in them to strip us of this that we hold so precious, our faith, prayer, His Word, His Commands, and we are silent to it, we dont speak up, why is this?

There are those who say that we offend with the ways of the Lord. What if for a moment we spoke up and say that the world and its ways offend us? But still, why are we so silent? Why don't we proclaim from the rooftops, from the mountains, that Jesus Christ is Lord of lords, and King of kings? Its past time that the Church wake up! Its past time that we stop allowing our "freedom" in Christ to be stolen! Its time more than ever before, to be loud about this Love that is beyond all loves!

The picture you see, is a pencil drawing that came to our office from an inmate in prison. I believe it is a loud statement of love. It was something that was deep in the heart of this person who may have been inspired by a message of love from a ministry who came to the unit where he was at. When this came to us, I found myself taken by the detail in the drawing. From the scar in His hand, to the tree of life in our hand. With this picture, I will say that I can preach a message about what it is that God has done for us! You see, I am NOT ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, rather I am thankful! Are you thankful? Can you speak up loudly about the Love that was demonstrated on that Cross at Calvary?

When there are many who in other countries who have been threatened, killed because of their faith, told to shut down their churches or be destroyed, we can not sit back and say nothing! We have to speak up! If we dont, then that very thing will be on our doorstep! Trust me, its presence is here! Just remember what took place not too long ago, 9/11.. We were silent when other freedoms were stripped! We cannot be silent any more! No prayer here, can't preach there, the commandments removed, and the Church did not stand up. Where are you people of God?

I Refuse to be Silent!

As a minister of the Gospel of Christ, I refuse to be silent! But let me ask, what about you? When God the Father spoke so loudly from that Cross, does it not move you? That drawing is not just a picture, it is a statement! Let me ask, is your life a statement? If so, what about? And if so, how loud? Stand up for the truth! Share the REAL truth! Jesus loves and He saves!!

Recently a question was asked of many students in college, a simple yes or no question. The results were horrible, some 80% answered "NO" to the question, "Are you born-again?" This is scary, in the fact that so many lay down each night without the reality of what life is all about. This is sad too, because too many who do know are being too quiet. Church, you just cannot be silent anymore! Lives of many need to know this one truth, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish" (John 3:16). Yes, granted each individual has a right to say no to this truth, but many need to hear it, and the Church needs to speak it!

Others Need to Hear!

For the lives of others, and for the freedom of others, we, the Body of Christ need to spread this truth loudly! The truth that there is a hand that reaches out to everyone of us with love and life, that He can only bring. Be bold, be strong, be loud about His love!! Somewhere there is a life that simply needs to know this Love, may even be next door of where you live. May even be where you work everyday. May be where you go and associate daily. May even be sitting across from you at the table every night! As the one songwriter best put it, "Jesus is standing at the door knocking, and we can't even get out of bed!" This is a shame!!! May I quote another song, "Get up! Stand up! Stand up for your right!" DONT GIVE UP THE FIGHT!! It is the fight for freedom! It is the fight for life! It is a fight for love! Many need it, WILL YOU GO?

Saturday, June 16, 2007

"Our God is a Consuming Fire"

Hebrews 12:28-29
Therefore, since we are recieving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.

Since we are recieving a kingdom that cannot be shaken...

This is something that should ring in your heart, stir your spirit, rattle your inner being. We are looking in the face of God, we are worshiping the One Who is the Almighty, and through Him, "We are RECIEVING a kingdom that cannot be shaken! It is all His! His is the kingdom, it belongs to Him! Its the Kingdom of God! Its "HEAVEN" where one day we will live for all enternity! Are you ready?

The inheritance that belongs to Christians and the awesomness of God make worship and grateful prayer our logical actions. Listen, it says since we are recieving this kingdom, "LET US BE THANKFUL..." One translation states, "Let us have grace.." We are to be thankful and in grace, whereby we may serve God "ACCEPTABLY." By that, we are to be, well-pleasing in serving Him. This is to be with "reverence and awe" or "with reverence and godly fear." One other way to put it would be, with "reverent caution," lest we should offend God. Our worship is in reverent caution, it is with grace and very thankful.

In these blogs, we have been dealing with "Aggressive Worship." We have looked at several short lessons concerning this topic. But within this lesson comes a deeper thought. In our worship, is this where we are? Are we thankful? Are we in grace serving God acceptably? Are we well-pleasing in serving Him? This cuts deep, for many do not comprehend the depth of this one fact. Many do not wish to comprehend. But we have great need in so doing. This should be the greatest desire of our hearts in our worship of God. The reason is found in verse 29.

"For our God is a consuming fire."

A reference to this verse is found in (Deut. 4:24) "For the Lord God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God." This sounds scary, as well as it should. But there is a beautiful thought within this. His fire may bring judgment to the wicked, but it builds humility, faith and purity in those who seek an even deeper relationship with Him. He will often use our circumstances, our problems, failures, maybe people in our lives... as fuel for this "REFINING FIRE," but His flames never burn out of control. It burns and it builds. As gold being set ablaze to bring out the pureness of the gold, God wants to burn away the dross of our lives, and bring forth purity within, faith within, and humility within.

When Scriptures speak of God as a jealous God. it means that He desires us in the purest and most relentless way. His is a jealousy that humankind can never know, for God is the only one who has a right to be jealous, because He is the only one who is perfect in love. His jealousy is not controlling, it is releasing. It is His Holy commitment to us. It is because of His deep love for us, and His deep desire for us. But we also need to know, His jealousy is an absolute intolerance of anything that would divide our affection and thereby forfeit His best for us. Therefore,nothing in any way should come between our relationship with Him. Nothing should, in any way, be allowed that can offend this jealous love.

He wants "ALL" of us, not just a little.

I am reminded of an old poem, penned by St. John of the Cross, "Living Flame of Love." Its a fire that burns, yet molds. Even as we said, it never burns out of control, but even its temperature is kept where His best is the result. Its a fire that as we allow it to shape us, He is the result that comes forth.

You are deeply loved! Allow that fire to burn deep into your soul. You will never be the same!
Allow Him to set your life on fire!!!!

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

"Worship: The Weapon of Our Warfare"

2 Corinthians 10:4
The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.

Do you ever think that what we have, as His children, the Worship of His Name, the Praise of our lips, for the One Who is Mighty in Power and Who is Holy, is a weapon of warfare? I am speaking that, Worship is a weapon of our warfare. His praise is a weapon of warfare. As the Scripture tells us "for PULLING down strongholds."

Let me ask you: Does praising the Lord as a line of defense seems to be real to you? Trust me, it is! The binds of bondage are broken completely through praise and worship.

I, again, am reminded of Psalm 144:1 "Praise be to God! Who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle." This passage is a verse we use in our "Guitar Seminars" that we conduct off and on throughout the year. Notice, war & battle, this tells me that our praise and our worship is warfare. But also tells me that HE has trained us! In that, I can see that His power is there to break these bondages and these binds!

On a 3x5 card, write encouraging words such as, "The weapon of His people is praise." Carry this card with you for a few days, taking it out and reading it frequently to refresh your memory. Then see how much impact this simple thought has on your life, your spirit, and even your mind! It will transform you completely!

We need to be caught up in the realm of spiritual truth, that we remain at our post of praise, even in times of difficult situations. That we remain focused in these times through worship and praise.

I will never forget a time while out ministering in a nursing home, that we met a lady, Emma.
Emma was up in age, very small and quiet. She loved to praise God. One day as we went in for a service, Emma was missing. When we asked about her, we were told that she was sick and couldnt come out. So a visit was in line to check in on her. As we came to where Emma was at, we heard her praying. Her prayer was more praise and worship. But when she addressed the devil in her prayer and let him know that God was her strongtower, that she was His child, that she trusted in Him. I recall this sound, almost like an audio feed, was as if we could hear in the spirit, if you will. Emma stated, "In the Name of Jesus, and by His Blood, devil, GO!" We heard this scream, it wasnt Emma. it wasnt anyone in the home. It was a spiritual scream that made one say like T.L Osborne would say, "poor devil." I will add, he doesnt have a chance when a child of God KNOWS who they are.

You have a weapon of warfare in worship and in praise! Use it! Go for God! Stand strong in Him!Being aggressive in worship, is being ready for warfare. But this readiness, is in His strength and in His might and power.

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

"The Surrender of Worship"

Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore, by the mercies of God, that you present yourself a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable (worship) service

Worship is a sacrifice. It is our laying down our ways, ourselves, totally at the feet of God. Earlier I used it this way, it is when we forcefully throw oursleves at His feet, in full trust, knowing that He is completely in charge.

This sacrifice, is what we present unto God.

By the word "present" note the definition: it means to exhibit, to offer, to give. It is a military word, as in, "present your weapon." Which is when a soldier holds his rifle vertically in front of his body. Here, all the definitions hold the same, but also is added, we "surrender" all that is presented. We "LET GO" of everything. That is the sacrifice!

In a total surrender in worship there is some things we need to learn here. In a military surrender, a step down, if you will. The head is bowed in sign of surrender to the higher power. The hands are held up, showing that there is "NOTHING" in them. In worship, true surrender is, the hands held high, showing that we have nothing to hold on to, and the head bowed bowed low. It is not hands held high and the head held back. Instead, the head is bowed, showing surrender to the higher power.

Have you surrendered in worship? Have you sacrificed ALL that you have presented? Have you lifted those hands, revealing that all has been let go of? Then fall at His feet, bow at His feet, proclaim the worship due Him. Surrender to worship, surrender to His Lordship.

Saturday, May 26, 2007

"Aggressiveness in Worship" Continuing On

If you have been in and out, back and forth, reading these blogs concerning "Aggressiveness in Worship" you are seeing a series of teachings that is continual in growth. As we have stated, several times, God is putting forth a call to His body, to become more aggressive in our worship.
Several times we have seen where God is wanting to start moving in greater ways through "suddenlies." As I have been in prayer, God keeps adding and challenging me with this teaching. Challenges in areas of getting this message out to His body. Challenges with my own personal walk and life. As well as a challenge for you the reader.

Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore by the mercies of God, to offer yourselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable worship."

Take note: "which is your reasonable worship." Some translations say, "which is your reasonable service." But I am finding that with this word "aggressive" that it is an action word. As was mentioned in meeting recently, it means to "violently be active." The word means: ready to fight, ready to undertake direct action, militant, bold and active. So with that in mind, notice what happens when that word is used in this verse of Scripture.

I beseech you therefore by the mercies of God, to offer yourselves as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, which is your aggressive worship.

Brings out a flavor here that needs to be given attention. Here is why. Initially, the passage used in this teaching was Psalm 149:5-6.

Let his faithful people rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds. May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in the hands.

This double-edged sword is being called: "the Sword of Worship." But if you read on the rest of Psalm 149, you get the reason "WHY" this is aggressive worship. You see clearly what God is up too and what He is wanting to "SUDDENLY" do in and through and with His Body.

To inflict vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples, to bind their kings with fetters their nobles with shackles of iron, to carry out the sentence written against them.. This is the GLORY of all His faithful people. Psalm 149:7-9

Listen close here. There are many who being held in bondage to sin. There are many in a prison that has no walls. The things, the spirits, that are holding these, need more more than ever to be aggressively attacked. Remember, Scripture tells us, "For we wrestle NOT against flesh and blood, BUT against principlaties" (Eph 6:12). The Bible calls them "authotities, powers of this dark world, spiritual forces in heavenly realms." These are the very ones that need this punishment, these are the ones whose "kings" need to be bound with fetters, shackles of iron. These are the ones who need this sentance carried out against. For these rulers, these spiritual forces, are attacking people all over, and with that God is asking His body: Who will stand up? Who will lift high the banner of freedom?

There are so many who under attack, the question here is: Will we let them die? Fend for themselves? Are we turning a blind eye to the ones whom He gave His life for? Are we asleep while Jesus is knocking at the door? God is preparing an army, "warriors of the Cross!" Those who are not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, and those who will be aggressive in worship, swinging the Sword of Worship, intercessors for the many who need freedom from chains, those who will speak with prophectic utterance the truth of deliverance and salvation!

Where are you? Where are the warriors? Where are the intercessors? Where are the "TRUE" worshipers of God? Those who worship in SPIRIT and in TRUTH (John 4:24). The enemy is attacking. His attack, even on ministries, is to stop the anointing God has placed upon these callings. His attack is kill the people of God. His attack is to "keep us quiet!"

It is TIME! It is TIME!! It is TIME!!! People of God, to wake up! It is time for true worshipers to come forth! It is time to be busy about God's business! Again, where are you? Where are you? The people who are God's people of integrity, and accountability?

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Its In Your Mouth! Its In Your Heart!

Romans 10:8-10
The Word is near you, it is in your mouth and in your heart, that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.

In continuing with the series on "Aggressive Worship," it is here that we have a key to the understanding of just what it is all about. The Word, the Word of God, is in your mouth. Do you proclaim His Word? In what ways, are you not afraid and not ashamed? Are you willing and able to shout it out from the rooftops? It is, as the Scripture states, "The Faith that We Proclaim."

We, the Body of Christ, need more than ever before to shout out aloud this wonderful message. We need to be "Sword of Worship Warriors" who, in no way, are ashamed of this Glorious Gospel. It tells me, that if I "declare" with my mouth, and "believe" in my heart this message, Jesus is Lord! and believe that God has raised Him from the dead, it tells me that I will be saved! That is something that is really worth praising Him about, and worshiping the One of Whom has given His all for all of us!

In aggressive worship, there has to be a loud voice proclaiming the wonders of the Lord. There has to be "Prophetic Utterance" declaring the Risen Savior! Declaring His soon return! Declaring the Glory of His Word, and putting it into action through the words of our mouths.

This Word, is it in your mouth? Do you throughout the day over and over often speak His Word over your life, your job, your family, your friends? Do you proclaim and declare the full promises of God, His blessings, upon each and every life? every situation? Is His Word in your mouth? Do you claim His promises? Do you claim His Blessings? Using the "Sword of Worship" in our proclamations, our standing on His Word, is the first and foremost step we need to take.
"Concerning this message of faith we proclaim!"

This Word, the belief of its truth, is it in your heart? Do you realize what it is that you believe in? Do you realize the power of this belief? The freedom, the salvation that result from this belief, do you realize it? Have you been one who has found through this belief the Healing, the Deliverance, the full Freedom of Salvation it brings? Then take the stand as you believe it in your heart, and proclaim it with your mouth! Time has come to stand up for what we believe in! Time has come for us to be NOT afraid, and for us to NOT be ashamed of this Gospel!

God is calling His Warriors of Worship, who, are aggressive in worship, and who are willing to step out and NOT ONLY be seen, BUT BE heard, in this proclamation: JESUS IS LORD!!!!

The enemy wants and desires that we loose this freedom we have. The enemy wants and desires that we BE QUIET and NOT OFFEND anyone. He would rather instead that we be quiet and reserve Christians. Put in other words, the enemy wants more than anything, for us to NOT be a threat. In that, Time has come! Time for us to raise up the standard! Time to not be quiet! Time to be a threat to the enemy! And time to let it be known that if your gonna offend in His Name, then an OFFENDER I WILL BE!!!

Aggressive in Worship!!! Not ashamed!! But declaring with my mouth! Believing in my Heart!! That Jesus is indeed Lord of Lords, King of Kings... That He is RISEN!!! That He is ALIVE FOREVER MORE!!! That He reigns!!!

Friday, May 18, 2007

"Agressiveness in Worship" Part 2

If you are new to the site: read the first part, "Agressive in Worship" before reading here...
Just scroll down..

"May the praise of God be in their mouths, and a double-edged sword in their hands."
Psalm 149:6

In part one of this series, it was mentioned, the "sword of worship." Personally, I have not heard much teaching on this "sword." But, within, in the heart of the Spirit, we need to understand more what this sword is, and how powerful it is.

We are told in Hebrews: "For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

This sword of worship, is the same sword!

It is a part of our armour: "Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God." Ephesians 6:17

With this in mind, understand, that as you begin worshiping God, as you begin to praise Him, as you begin confessing His Word, as you stand, fully armed, this "sword" is deadly to the enemy of our souls. This "sword" cuts through all bondage, all restraints, all attacks and brings freedom as a result. My main question is simply, why are we not using our weapon?

Again, we are told in Scripture, "Faith comes by hearing, and by hearing the Word of God." We have great need to speak the Word, as we praise and worship, the Word Himself, Jesus Christ. Speak out His promises, praise and thank Him as you worship.

Do you have any idea, the power that is in your hands? In this time where warriors of the Word are greatly needed, do you have any idea of the "calling" on your life from God? Yes, sadly, we spent more time, polishing the weapns, rather than using the weapons. As a guitarist. there is an old statement, "Your axe sure has seen a few battles hasnt it?" My guitars, especially the ones that are greatly used on the road, in services, yes at one time were brand new, shined in a beautiful way, but now, show some wear and tear. Does your weapons have a bit of wear and tear? Has your weapon "seen a few battles?"

God is wanting warriors who will shout His praises, not only in the privacy of home, but in public. God is wanting to begin what we would call "SUDDENLY" ministry. Meaning, that He, by His Spirit, wills and wants to begin to fall in sudden manner, on services, prayer meetings, gatherings. I believe that we are staged and ready for many suddenlies. In that too, we will see greater need to use our "sword of worship." Think if you will, as you throw your hands up and begin worshiping Him, proclaiming His Word, of how that sword begins "swinging." Think of all the freedom that will result in this. And, as God begins to move in sudden manner, the deliverance that will come for many.

The "sword of worship" is more than a song! It is a lifestyle!

The "sword of worship" is prophetic! It will be used to proclaim the "MOVE" of the Holy Spirit in greater ways than we have ever known. Recall if you will, in the Old Testament, of how many times the praise and worshipers went out before the army. Those songs of worship and praise, I believe, stunned the enemy, that as the army moved in, totally victory was the result! Again, God is calling the warriors of worship, to go forth, before the army, begin the "song" and see the ushering of God's "SUDDEN" move.

The "sword of worship" will proclaim the awesomeness of our King of kings, and Lord of lords!
It will usher in a flowing of the Spirit in the last days, like never seen or known before. This "sword" will be used not only by music ministry, but by intercessors at the Altar of God. Recently, it was prophesied, that intercession will once again become for many, a "full time job." I believe the openings are for many to apply. Are you called?

The opening are many for those who will be the warriors of worship and praise, brandishing the "sword of worship." Are you called?

I challenge you to seek His face, seek His heart, and ask about your position in this army. You are greatly needed. Please keep checking back with this site, as more will be added concerning this subject.

Remember: "Stand strong, dont budge!"

Thursday, May 17, 2007

"Agressiveness in Worship"

Psalm 149:5-6
Let the saints be joyful in glory; let them sing aloud on their beds. Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand."

An interesting thing to note here: "In calling us to worship, God is up to far more than cultivating a band of humble worshipers; He is building an army of triumphant warriors."
I escpecially like this thought. The reason being, that as a worshiper, I am also a warrior.
I am triumphant because the One Whom I worship is the King of kings and Lord of lords.
You have to see and know, we are dealing here not with weapons of carnal warfare, but with putting our words into action, by "ACTING" on the promises of the God we praise.

What is your reaction when bad news comes? How do you respond? Your told of an enemy of sickness that had invaded your life, an enemy that may even be life threatening, what is your comeback? What can be done in such moments? We need at these moments to take up the "sword of worship." You see, worship is far more than just coming to church and singing the latest praise song. Worship is far more than being in attendance every Sunday morning. Worship is also a "warfare." I have often seen, if you will, in the Spirit, while singing and playing music at a service. or even as I have been teaching God's Word, that as we enter fully into worship, there is a spiritual warfare going on that is most incredible. That warfare is a victorious battle against our enemy, the devil! I have seen many times, as the notes of music come off of the guitar, that huge swords bombarde the enemies camp.

"Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle."
Psalm 144:1

The Four Action Steps of Worship

FASTING
Is fasting foreign to your experience? Dont let it be. Fasting is an agressive way to affirm the promised power of the spirit over the flesh. It reinforces the priority of prayer, and helps us seek God throughout everyday. We just have a need to "DENY" the flesh as a sign that we "trust not" in human energy, but rather, in the power of the Spirit.

PURE PRAYER
Pure prayer, is coming before the Lord and making a confession. A confession of pureness before the Lord. A confession of "I have no power." It is not a "poor me" prayer! It is a prayer that ascribes to God the power and authority over the enemy. It is our confession that our banner is the Lord. It affirms the power of God over our lives. It is allowing Him complete control. Too many times, we try to do things "on our own." We need His guidance, His power. Our victory is in Christ!

REMEMBRANCE OF GOD'S WORK
What has He done before? In the past, what are the things that God has done in bringing victory into our lives? Our paths? Recall all the Bible stories of the things that God had done for His children. Are you anything less? No!

Remembering is a mighty source of confidence that God is able and will again deliver and save.

PROPHETIC UTTERANCE
Open the Holy Word of God. Meditate on His Word. He will and still assures us, "The battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chron 20:15).

These are steps to agressive worship. But also steps to victory in sight of attack. When we take up the two-edged sword, the sword of worship, and we agressively "TRUST" God, when we "FORCEFULLY" throw ourselves at His feet in worship. It is when we "BOLDLY" use our spiritual weapons that we find that doubt, fear and anxiety will be put to flight!

This is our boldest stand against the threats of the enemy. Plant your feet, refuse to budge!
Be agressive in worship!

Thursday, May 10, 2007

The Song of the Heart Part 2


In praise and worship, how do you "own" a song? By that, I am saying, causing the song to become so much a part of you, that as you sing, as you bring forth the music, that the ministry is deeper, richer, and the anointing stronger.
Several times, off and on, during the year, we conduct "Guitar Seminars" and in that a mix of "Praise and Worship" workshops. These are always enjoyable, but rewarding, more in seeing others "grow" in the talents that God has given each and every one.
But one lesson recently that I came across, and plan to add to these seminars and workshops is the lesson of learning to "own" the song. Simple steps are taken in doing so.
Step One: Who are the characters in the song? For example: usually there are 2 characters. You and God. When God is speaking in the song, normally, it will be referring to Him as "I" am singing to "You."
Step Two: Write the lyrics down, maybe even better, on a Word Perfect program on your computer. Then over certain words, right click, and find the words "symonyms" in that you get an amplified definition of that word. Thus bringing in a greater meaning to the words of the song.
Step Three: Meditate in Prayer these amplified words, then apply them to your heart, then "Own" the song as you sing.
An example of this, using the lyrics of "Reign on Me" from our "Revive Us" CD.
"A dry wind..." A spiritual desolate wind, a wind that pulls all the life out of you, a wind that brings down your heart into troubled times.. "Blows across the desert sand..." The heart has become like a desert, without water to refresh, without spiritual life, dying.. "Leaving behind a parched and thirsty land.." Our lives.. our heart..dried up and in great need of attention.. "Longing for relief from this heat..." A longing for relief in the fire of tests, trials, the fire of trouble. The pressure being applied and "the pressure being on" as they say.. "Longing for the healing touch of Your hand..." This is the knowing that the only relief in this situation is the hand of God to touch and to heal, to restore our lives. "Crying reign on me." Take complete control, place your guiding hands on the stern of my life.. "Crying, Lord heal me..." Completely heal, restore my life back to where it needs to be in your Hands.
I know this may sound kind of weird, but in using these symonyms, maybe you already see how much deeper a song can become by these steps. Now, as a musician, with these deeper definitions, I will in turn bring forth the song with passion, conviction, and allow God to move because, if you will, I have done my homework in learning to "own" this song.
The psalmist throughout the Psalms, writes, "Songs" from the heart. And in that I am very sure that if he were to define his words, they too would go very deep. Because the message of the Psalm is the Song of the heart, and is "Owned" by us all.
Next time you hear a song you like, or one that deeply touches your soul, try these steps, and see that the deeper spiritual side of the song is wider that you might think, and the lessons are incredible to what God is desiring to say to each and everyone of us. Grow in your talents that God has given! Allow yourself to be free in these talents, and do some research for some depth and background. Its truly rewarding!!!
The picture above, is a sight that I find myself in front of many times as I begin to write or work over a new song, at the foot of the cross. His Heart is my song. I want my life to be a song that sings of His love, His forgiveness, His peace. Because, as a song, I am "owned" by Him. There fore its a desire to "Glorify" Him.

Thursday, May 3, 2007

A Letter From An Inmate



Recently, we recieved a wonderful letter from an inmate that blessed our souls. We felt that we would like to share with you what this inmate had said to us. Be Blessed!!

Dear Terry,
I hope and pray and know the Lord has brought healing and comfort to you and your wife. My mother went to be with the Lord 11 years ago next month. I miss her and look forward to seeing her in heaven. That is, thanks to your music ministry. I want you to know what a blessing you have been to me. The first time I saw you at the Prison Unit was in April of 2006. Your music set me free and in a following Sunday service I turned my whole life over to the Lord. I had been saved since I was 23, but I was a backslider for many years. When I did come back to the Lord I didn't give Him my whole life; thus, I ended up in here. Though I lost everything when I came to prison I am now totally free. I finally know for sure that I am forgiven and I will get to be with the Lord in heaven. You played a big part in that and I thank you!!!
In His Love,
Signed Inmate
Here at our ministry we recieve many letters from men and women incarcerated, like this letter, and find ourselves blessed each and every time. We are very blessed and grateful when we know that our supporters also share in this as well. At this time we want to thank each and everyone who stands with this ministry in prayer as well as support what we do.
God Richly Bless Everyone of You
Zoe Ministries Inc.,
Staff

Monday, April 30, 2007

The Beauty Of Hands Lifted Up

Just for a moment, before reading any further, just simply stop and stare at this picture. Beautiful isnt it? These hands are the hands of inmates at a prison we recently ministered at.
I look at this and think to myself, these hands, who knows where they have been, who knows what they have done, these hands possibly have stolen things, maybe abused someone, these hands may have possibly pulled a trigger of a gun. There is One who knows these hands. There is One who has seen all the things these hands have done.

Now, for a second, look at your hands. Hold them up as you look at them. Where have they been? What have they done? See, there is no difference really. For all of us, have at some time done things, said things, that we have since repented of and found the beauty of His love in forgiveness. But the one thing that does make a difference is the hands that are lifted up in the mighty Name of Jesus, in worship of the King of kings and Lord of lords.

The Psalmist said, "Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your Name" (Psalm 63:3-4). Did you hear the word "lovingkindness"? Did that one word stand out to you?

The upward reach of worshiping hands is a confession that God is above us. That He is in charge. That He is in control. Its our confession of Who He is. With those hands lifted up we are giving to God our praise and our love. Its our being, as children, reaching out to our "Loving Father." This is because His lovingkindness IS BETTER than life! Paul tells us, "pray everywhere, lifting up "HOLY" hands" (1 Tim 2:8). These hands, though they may have been dirty from the past, are and can, be made holy hands, by the love and forgiveness of our Father.
These hands are lifted because there is a deep heart desire of more of His Holy Spirit, more of His love, more of His presence.

It is moving to be able to stand on a platform, singing the praises of God, or teaching His Word, and look up and see this very picture. I often remember the cover design for a Bob Dylan album "Saved." Hands lifted to the One hand reaching back to lift us all up. Its truly beautiful. Its freedom in its highest sense. Its our hearts "chasing" after God's heart.

Be thankful. Be moved to the highest and most beautiful way of worship given to mankind. The opportunity to lift "Holy" hands in His Name. Because His lovingkindness is truly better than life.

Opportunity in High School


Its been since last November, that we had an opportunity to do a program in high school. We had the door open for a program at Mineola High School Mineola, Texas, a "drug prevention" program, but even more a "use the talents you have" program. We are very thankful for Principal Rocky Stevens for giving us this time to spend and share with all the young people at Mineola High School.
Even though we are an evangelical outreach ministry, we are always open for oppottunities to share something that inspires and encourages and uplifts. The main thought for this special program was more, "Use Your Talents." I have been in and around music pretty much all my life, I have found that every angle of emotion can be shared in simple song. But in return I have found it a waiste that so many have wonderful, incredible talents, be it music, art, dance, theatre the list is long, and the problem is "no use" of what has been given. The old PSA ad said, "A mind is a terrible thing to waiste." So is our giftings!
In this program, yes, we did hit on drug prevention, yes we shared its effects on life in general. But as I love to put it. "Get high" on what you have within you. Have you ever noticed that communication is incredible through the arts? Have you ever noticed that there seems to be no language gap, in areas like music? The gift of whats within, can and many times has been what we can use to do things that is way beyond our imagination.
To touch a heart with a song, to move someone with emotion through that gift, causes things that many times just cant be done alone. I have have found when music is positive, when the message is of good foundation, there is healing. At one time, I became very interested in a medical practice called "Music Therapy." It is a practice that helps heal the person through music. Many have been brought into this healing simply with a song that they may have grown up on. Maybe the healing was through tears in a media play that touched the soul. We have a great tool, totally within our reach. We "ALL" have been gifted with something that can bless and touch someone. So let me ask you, are you using your gift? Are you touching lives through what you have within you?
In music terms, if I can us this, I have a t-shirt with Homer Simpson on it, playing a guitar. Homer is doing his best Pete Townsend arm swing. The words around him say: "Live Long, Play Hard!!!" Dont bury your gift! Use it! Dont abuse it! See things that can be done, things that may be way beyond your thinking. Live long, play hard, touch a soul, never know, they just may blow your mind as to where and what they do and become, and you can know you had a part.

Songs From The Heart

As a singer, songwriter, musician for the Lord, I desire greatly with each and every song to "spill" my heart into what I am saying, or want to say to the Lord, or about Him. I use the word "spill" because within the musician there is a cup that fills and spills out the vision, the heart songs from, to and about the throne of God and His loving presence.

The old hymn says "I sing because I am happy! I sing because I am Free!" This holds very true, but also "I sing because I am filled with His Spirit!" I am filled with such overflow that I cannot contain it, it MUST come out and be shared. Often, I have shared in various services and meetings, that when I go into record new music, usually it is my prayer, "Lord, show me something new, unique, different." Scripture tells us that we are unique, different, that we should show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness (1 Peter 2:9). One translation says it this way, "But you are a chosen people, a holy nation, "God's special possession," that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

I am His possesion! I really like that! It is because of this, I do desire to "spill" out what is in my heart, the praises of Him who has called me out of darkness and into His wonderful light! I find that it is indeed wonderful, because that light illuminates and permeates my whole being. That light sears deep into my soul, causing me to see clearly His love for me, then in turn it is my desire to write, record that song that stirs from deep within. That is what, I, as a musician, want more than anything, first to minister to the Lord with my song and heart, then cause you to be brought into the song, so that "Your Song" will sing from your heart.

Many times it is in the form of an instrumental song, but even then, the heart to cause you to see, maybe experience His love, His light, His presence, is still written into the notes of the song, and are from the depths of the heart and soul as well. One song in particular, that I have played many times in many services, "The Masters Love" is a song sweet to the soul, but also paints the picture that the fact is, we are always in the shadow of His cross. Even when we may feel like we are alone, He is always there, and in that shadow "Victory" is always ours, because of what was done on the cross at Calvary, we were "brought" deep into His heart and love, and the Song of the Heart, simply stirs up from there and is given through every note.

All in all, allow that song to sing from your heart! Let loose the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light come forth! Raise your voice, raise your hands, and let it be known, Jesus Christ is Lord of lords, King of kings, forever worshipped and forever praised!