Eschatology: A Deeper Understanding of Things to Come

The Biblical AGES – An overview, and a glimpse into a BRIGHT future!  🕯️🌎🕯️
 

The following is a brief overview of the Biblical AGES:  
 

(Scripture references for more in depth personal study)
 

✨ONE:  INNOCENCE Age ~ From the time of the creation of Adam to the first failure of man, resulting in Adam and Eve’s removal from Eden.  (Please read: Genesis 1:26; 2:16-17; 3:6; and 3:22-24).  
 

✨TWO: CONSCIENCE Age ~ Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s clear command, which transmitted a nature of disobedience to the entire human race. Since man had acquired the knowledge of good and evil, it was now his responsibility to choose good and turn his back on evil.  This period went from Eden to the Flood, when it rained for 40 days and 40 nights.  (Please read: Genesis 3:7, 22; 6:5, 11-12; and 7:11-12, 23).  
 

✨THREE:  GOVERNMENT Age ~ God spared Noah and his family. After the waters subsided, God gave them the purified earth with ample instructions to govern it. God also instructed man to “be fruitful and multiply and replenish the whole earth,” God gave them authority over all the animals. However, because of man’s sinful nature of disobedience he attempts to become independent of God.  (Please read: Genesis 9:1-2 and 11:1-8).  
 

✨FOUR:  PROMISE Age ~  After the descendants of the human race were dispersed as a result of the tower of Babel, God called a man, Abram (his name was changed later to Abraham) and enters into a covenant. Some of the promises God made to Abram and his descendants were unconditional, by God’s grace. Other promises were conditional upon the faithfulness and obedience of the Israelites.   (Please read: Genesis 12:1-3; 15:5; 26:3; 28:12-13; 13:14-17 and Exodus 1:13-14)
 

✨FIVE:  LAW Age ~ God’s grace came to man and redeemed the chosen people out of the hand of the oppressor. In the wilderness God proposed to them the Covenant of Law.  The history of Israel in the wilderness and in the land that God had promised, is one long record of persistent violation of the Law.  (Please read: Exodus 19:1-8; Romans 3: 19-10 and 10:5; Acts 2:22023 and 7:51-52; Galatians 3:10 and 2 Kings 25:1-11)  
 

✨SIX:  GRACE or CHURCH Age ~   The sacrificial death of the Lord Jesus Christ brought the dispensation of God’s grace.  This means God gave us undeserved favor, GIVING righteousness as a FREE gift, instead of REQUIRING righteousness, as under the Law.  For hundreds of years the Church has been growing, expanding and reforming, through many forerunners in the faith.  Our focus on the ONE we have in common, King Jesus, testifying to who He is to all people, and encouraging a deep personal intimacy with Him, continues to grow and advance His Church.  Now is the time for us to help all in the Body of Christ see that no matter where we worship, we are truly ONE Church all over the world, our Savior Jesus Christ at the center, who binds us together as ONE BODY. (Please read:  John 6:29, John 6:47, John 5:24, Ephesians 2:8-9)
 

✨SEVEN:  KINGDOM Age or Millennium   ~ Jesus returns to claim His Bride, the Church, bringing complete restoration and reigns over earth for one thousand years (Millennium). The seat of Christ’s power will be Jerusalem, and the saints, the Church, will be with Him in His glory. (Please read:  Acts 15:14-17; Revelation 21:1-6, Isaiah 2:1-4, Isaiah 11:1-10).
 

Throughout the Ages, our God was FAITHFUL to keep His promises, and pour out His blessing.  God has always desired relationship, friendship, an intimacy with His people.  Due to man’s continued sin and disobedience throughout time, God came to earth in human form. The Word became Flesh by the birth of JESUS, God’s only Son.  Jesus took upon Himself all the sin of the world, so that through Him, we might have LIFE and FREEDOM forever, and come into an intimate relationship with the Father.  What love God has for all His children to endure this, sacrificing His only Son on our behalf!
As Jesus’ body died on the cross, ALL sin and death DIED with Him.  This put an end to all previous times of man’s disobedience.  
 

But that is not the END of the story! Jesus ROSE from death.  He overcame it all, being raised, becoming KING of Heaven AND Earth.  God’s plan was brilliant, revealing His true nature, which is unconditional love, sending JESUS so that all would know Him and His TRUE nature.  Because of what Jesus accomplished for us on the cross, we are set free from the bondage of sin and death, and are blessed with full access to the Father, through our Advocate, King Jesus.
 

As we have faith, believing the truth of God’s goodness, walking in the love of Jesus, we have an open Heaven over our heads, the blessings of the Kingdom of God, while here on earth.  We ARE the KINGDOM of GOD and each day, through us, God’s Kingdom is advanced in the world. 🌎 Hallelujah!  
 

🙏Thank You, Jesus, for what You have done to bring NEW LIFE.  We are Your light, and we unite together to flood all darkness in this world with Your light, until You return, to make ALL THINGS NEW!  We love You!  💗
 

~~CCS

A Question for the Church: What is our Process for Interpreting the Scriptures?

I have taught on this previously, however, Jesus is showing me how very important it is at this time in history, to bring it around again, reiterating the importance of a “process” with HIM, when we interpret the scriptures, and then SHARE it with the world, as we see every day via social media, via our pulpits/platforms, and on city streets.  Sharing God’s TRUTH means that we need God’s wisdom whenever we use scripture to support any cause.  It is the wisdom we receive from above which plants seeds of truth, not seeds which stem from a skewed mindset.  

Many are using the Word of God, by pulling scriptures out of context, to back up a “point of view” which may not actually be a Kingdom point of view.  Leaning on our own understanding, not seeking and receiving vital revelation from the Lord when sharing any scripture, can lead others into confusion, and bring great pain.  We can easily create a twisted view of God’s heart, God’s nature, God’s will for us, and of the plan Jesus has for His Church, as we advance the Kingdom of God on this earth, and anticipate His return.

The Lord has taught me directly and confirmed through others, a process of three steps for the interpretation of scripture, urging me to pass these along today:

🦅🔥~~Scripture is best interpreted through a “spiritual lens” of both CONTEXT and HISTORY~~ 

It is important to understand when this particular passage was written, by whom, and the cultural atmosphere of the day, both religious and political. This, at times, takes some research. There are so many tools at our finger tips to do so. Reading the entire passage of scripture within the surrounding chapters, helps as well, for a deeper understanding of the context. 

🦅🔥~~SCRIPTURE helps interpret scripture~~

Have you ever noticed that when someone quotes scripture, we can almost always find another scripture to challenge what the first one says?  This, in my view, does not mean that we cannot depend on the Bible as truth, as the inspired Word of God.  For me, this is specifically the God-given, healthy tension we receive in the gift that is God’s Word.  It keeps us from relying on our own understanding, so that we SEEK GOD directly, for what God wants to reveal in that moment.  Even in well-known passages we have had memorized since childhood, God shows us something NEW regularly, for a particular time and purpose.  The Word is ALIVE, Living and breathing.  His name is JESUS!  Enjoy these intimate moments with Him, the Great Teacher, as the light bulb of new revelation turns on suddenly in your mind, heart and spirit.  Spend time in the Word, with the One who IS the Word made flesh. 

🦅🔥~~KNOW, by seeking the Lord directly and by study, whether the scripture you are quoting has already been fulfilled, or is truly yet to come~~

This one is particularly critical, as we await the return of Jesus and go about what He is calling us to do daily. It takes study, an understanding of both Old and New Covenants, gaining the wisdom that can only come from on high, to receive what God is saying to us about the future.  Quoting scriptures which have already been fulfilled long ago, as if they are yet to come, brings fear and confusion within the Body of Christ, AND withholds truth from those who are presently unbelievers.  I have witnessed that when scriptures fulfilled are quoted as if they are yet to come, we witness a turning away from the KINGDOM focus we so badly need, our eyes always fixed on Jesus, the One who came to save.  (John 3:16-17)

One Example: We often memorize John 3:16, central to our faith, and neglect the following verse, a critical truth, which gives us greater perspective.  God is not sending Jesus back to earth to sweep His Church to Heaven, leaving behind all unbelievers, to receive God’s wrath, as God destroys the world God created. Though a popular teaching, selling many books, videos and more, “Rapture” teaching is not truth.  There are many resources available for believers who have come to believe this false teaching, to increase understanding, so that our view of the future (eschatology) can be brought into proper alignment with the nature of our God, and God’s perfect plan to fulfill the prayer Jesus taught:  “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on EARTH, as it is in Heaven.”  

God’s plan for our future is BRIGHT, where all will come to know the truth.  The best is yet to come, through God’s plan for complete restoration, Heaven and earth united, as His Church unites around our Chief Cornerstone, Jesus, King of Heaven and earth.  👑 

I want to thank a Facebook friend from the United Kingdom, whose post regarding a Biblical reference about women, prompted this word today.  Quoting this scripture out of context, without a process as described above, disempowers women who have been clearly chosen by God for a specific God-given purpose.  Unlike what we have seen in history and culture, God does not place women in a box, restricting them from being used for any Kingdom purpose, as pastors, leaders, teachers, preachers, simply whatever GOD wills.  Those who seek, will find quite the contrary is true!  God’s power is very much alive in us, and we release it regularly, in whatever way the Holy Spirit reveals, day after day. Thank you, Cameron Kennedy, for your brave posting, being willing to “take the heat”, and for how Jesus is using you today and in all the days ahead, to bring unity in His Church. You are SO loved. 

Jesus came to set ALL people FREE.  This freedom is not restricted to men.  He is the SECOND ADAM, the God of RESTORATION.  His finished work at the cross changed everything.  All we need do is to believe it, and receive it.  He is the supreme sacrifice, and we have complete VICTORY in the New Covenant. 😂 Thanks be to God! 

🌷For Women:

To all women today who have been called by God for a KINGDOM purpose, I decree and declare today: “GO! GO! GO, into all the world and make disciples of all nations!  Release what He gives you! Speak it boldly and declare His truth!  You are anointed for such a time as this, in the mighty name of Jesus!  

📖~Proverbs 3:5-6  “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
 

📖~John 1:14 “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” 

📖~Philippians 2:9-11  ”Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.…”

On Being “Caught up”  🔥

What does the word “rapture” mean to you spiritually?   A deeper understanding is needed within Christ’s Church, regarding future events, as we are not in agreement, having been exposed to many different teachings on this subject. We do not want this to be a stumbling block to, a much needed, unity in the Body of Christ. 

In the early morning hours, I had several experiences where I was in the Spirit with the Lord, “caught up”, being held, my entire body vibrating with His Presence, as He woke me to see where we were and to point things out to me.  I was walking with a huge crowd of people and I suddenly felt myself being pulled upwards for a better view. This crowd was VERY large and seemed to go on and on.  All of a sudden, filled with God’s presence, I began to declare my love for Jesus, praising Him and thanking Him for what He is doing, both in my life and in the world.  My heart was filled with love for Him and it was difficult to remain quiet in these moments, though I stopped when I saw my good friend, Tobiloba, also in leadership at Glorious Church Ministries, coming out of this crowd as I did, and discerned immediately that she was running after me in the opposite direction, out through a door of bright shining light.  

I have been discerning this with the Lord, who has shown me two things about this.  First, the huge crowd of people we were walking with were the saints in Heaven who have gone before us.  We were comfortable, as we are a part of them. God pulled us out and showed us, that though we are here on earth, this huge crowd is indeed the Body of Christ with us and are walking with us right here and now, but in a bit different place from us, their bodies not yet restored on earth.  He also is showing me now that there is also a group on earth IN their bodies, who are walking in a different direction from us right now.  Though it looks like we are “separated”, we are indeed comfortable and a part of this group as well.  I am in awe of all He was saying through this experience in the Spirit.  (end of one experience)

Another time during the night, God woke me again, and I found myself in the Spirit as before, His Presence moving throughout my body, holding me, “caught up”.  This time I was looking at a scene, from the vantage point of slightly above.  I saw people, bodies, moving up from the earth all around, some were lifted only a few feet, and then would gently come back down, others headed up out of my view.  It was very random and quite fun to watch.  Of course, I immediately thought of the differences in our beliefs regarding the word “rapture” and what some believe it means for the Church.  I began asking the Lord about this, because, over the past several years, God has revealed things to me regarding this subject of rapture teaching.  The Lord showed me this time, that believers are “caught up” at different times in life, in our experiences with Him.  Many are not even aware, because God does not wake them and show them, as He has done often with me during the night. We often do not remember anything that happens during the night time hours, when we wake.  

We can be “caught up” in the Spirit through dreams, visions and in the natural. Others are “caught up” to Heaven when their bodies here have given out, now in the Spirit and in “waiting” just as we are for Jesus to reveal Himself once again on earth. 

He brought to mind these scriptures:  

📖~~1 Corinthians 15:52 ….in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.
 

 ~~Philippians 2:10 …that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…

We are in a time of preparation, God’s Kingdom being established upon the earth, and we are part of this process for such a time as this.  He confirmed what He has been saying all along, that His plan for the Church is not to escape this earth as He takes us up to Heaven, leaving all others behind as the earth is destroyed.  This teaching brings fear, as believers ask themselves things like, ”Am I doing what I need to do to be ready”?  “Will I be one of those left behind”?  Fear is the opposite of FAITH. 

Rather, God’s good plan is for the Church to be United as ONE Body, fully restored, on EARTH as it is (now) in HEAVEN.  The prayer of Jesus, which He taught us to pray, will come into fruition.  At the coming of Jesus, we will see a new Heaven and a New Earth, as we unite as ONE, and we shall be changed!    What a day we have to look forward to!  The earth made brand NEW, as He is the God who makes ALL things NEW!  Hallelujah!  🦋

Have you been “caught up” in the Spirit?  We all have free access to our home, this place we call Heaven, at any time.  JESUS has given us that free access as we draw near to HIM, who is this HOME.  It is always available to us, because JESUS is our HOME.  Heaven is closer than many believe, and His Kingdom is being advanced on the earth right now through us.  And it is GOOD!

🙏 Thank You Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit for the way You reveal and confirm.  It is most humbling, the greatest JOY of my life, to be in partnership with You.  Amen!

📖 ~~~2 Corinthians 12:1-4   “I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to be gained, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord.  I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know—God knows.  And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows— was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell.”

 An encouraging message for the Body of Christ

“WOOSH!  I was picked up with such tremendous force, through the kitchen, out the back door and up, up, up into the sky!  Wheeeeee!”

My experience of 12.6.2018:

Early this morning, the Lord gave me a very detailed “experience”, which began with a prophetic dream.  I was there, seeing and experiencing everything vividly in color.  The scene began in my kitchen, though it was not my kitchen here in the United States.  This was in my home, in the midst of many homes on the side of a cliff on the Italian coast, just like in the graphic for the previous post:  “Global Network of World Changers”.  There was a sliding glass door to the patio, from which I looked up in this nighttime scene, and saw the lights in the house on this cliff, slightly above. I knew that those who lived there were of the Muslim faith.  The houses were large and beautiful. 

Suddenly, the front door bell rang, and surprise! My kitchen was flooded with children.  These were children of many cultures.  The adults began making pizza for them, different types according to their nation.  It was the crust for the pizza, the type of “bread” that was distinctive.  🍞

As everyone was busy around the kitchen, I looked through the sliding glass door, and saw people out on their balconies pointing to the sky and yelling.  As I looked up, I saw this huge white glory cloud in the night sky, coming right toward my house. I was excited immediately, as we have been waiting, expectantly for Jesus!  As I opened the sliding glass door, this cloud came quickly toward me as I stood with arms open wide. As this beautiful cloud suddenly came through my kitchen……WOOSH!  I was picked up with such tremendous force, through the kitchen, out the back door and up, up, up into the sky!  Wheeeeee! 

 I felt such AWE at this power which brought sheer JOY!  I saw a beautiful heart shape in the night sky.  The only way to describe the force I felt, is to compare it to what we feel at the time of take-off, when flying in large aircraft.  This powerful force which lifted me, however, was felt from the front of me, not from behind, as in a plane at lift off.  I was being carried, as if in the best, most secure hug.  It was exhilarating!

At the point of “lift off” in this scene in my kitchen, I was awakened, no longer in “dream” state, but awake, and in the Spirit with the Lord.  I was very much aware that I was in my bed in the natural, but I was MOVING swiftly, with great force, in the Spirit, feeling tightly held by God.  It was then that I heard a tangible, crackly, unpleasant male voice, who was seeing all this, refer to me in an angry tone.  I was not afraid at all, for I was in the grip of the One with ALL the power, feeling VERY loved.  

I immediately asked Jesus about this voice, so opposite of His voice, and thought it strange at how he had used “thee and thou” language in what was said.  It was clear that the plans of this one, to divide and destroy the body of Christ, through lies and deception, was all behind us, the TRUTH being uncovered, God turning all for His GLORY. This encounter and discussion was momentary, as we do not focus there, right?  To be sure, it felt like complete VICTORY, at its finest!  (Philippians 2:9-11)…every knee…every tongue!

We were far beyond all that, as we kept ascending until finally, looking through the eyes of Jesus at the world below, felt just like looking out the window seat of an airplane at 10,000 feet.  We were cruising in perfect peace.  The feeling of being held by our sweet Lord, moving together, was the most comforting feeling of HOME.  I began to see words of love, and was reminded of how the Lord would write words in the sky for me to see when I last traveled in an aircraft.   

After, but a few minutes of conversation about where we were headed, I felt us descending gently, gently, gently, until we were on the ground seeing a beautiful emerald green grass.  We were on a grass putting green, on the Emerald Isle of Ireland.  The grass looked brand new.  Jesus showed me a flash as we moved along this grass, of the bright, modern inside of a house, another kitchen/dining room scene.  It looked to be new construction, the wood, a warm, light color.  He said this was our home in Ireland.  You can only imagine my surprise when I heard this!    And then we were flying upward again.  

When we had ascended a bit, I began to see the land below, in this same “brand new” green, however now the scene looked like a great harvest.  Things began to spring up that had been planted, the plants becoming PEOPLE.  We ascended higher, as it turned to a night time sky.  Looking at these fields now, I began to see silver chords from these people below, all over the world, moving up toward us and attaching to us.  We were seeing the GLOBAL Connections, the Global Network of World Changers, stemming from all the seeds that had been planted in the many nations of the world.  It was a beautiful sight to behold.  We were being all drawn together. 

This led to more questions about this huge movement of God in the world at this time. This is the message I took away from this experience:

It is happening, my friends. All we have hoped and prayed for these past months is coming to pass.  No longer will we be in a place of chaos, lies and deception.  We have moved to a NEW PLACE.  Thanks to our great God, who sent us Jesus, this world is under NEW CONSTRUCTION.  

This New World is the Kingdom of Heaven invading earth.  My view from above, was my view from Heaven. I was with Jesus, our true HOME.  Where HE IS, the KINGDOM of HEAVEN is. Those who teach a “rapture”, that we are “escaping” this world, a select group who are saved, before the total destruction of this earth, are missing God’s true plan.  God’s plan is GOOD and available to us NOW.  We are being “swept up” with Jesus in the Spirit, today’s experience of mine, a wonderful example of how this works.  Friends, be careful not to misinterpret scripture on this.  Being “caught up” with the Lord is not physical, though it certainly feels physical, because we are first Spirit beings.  It is spiritual, and it is AWEsome.  We don’t need to leave this world, our physical bodies dying, to experience Heaven.  Heaven is HERE.

Be encouraged today, for we have turned the final corner.  We are on the adventure of a lifetime, as we have our One true Leader, leading the way.  It is time to REJOICE.  HOPE has arrived!  His name is JESUS, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  ✨

📖~~Isaiah 9:6  “For to us a child is born. To us a son is given; and the government will be on his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

📖~~Philippians 2:9-11  …”Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" 

🌈 "Rapture" Teaching is Not Truth!  🌈

Friends, consider this verse from the first Chapter of Romans which jumped off the page at me today: 

📖~~ Romans 1:18  “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth."

Where are the areas where truth is being suppressed today? (Romans 1:18).  These are the places where we need to pay close attention, making sure we are aligned with Christ JESUS, the One who IS TRUTH, never allowing the deceiver to sway us. 

Though we may agree that there are many signs of His return all around us, where we differ is what we believe about what will take place WHEN He returns. 

We, at Glorious Church Ministries, are here to encourage you to dig deeper, to establish a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, to hear the Holy Spirit DIRECTLY, not relying on, and simply believing the teachings of, those who have a “name”, a   "following", or a “title”, for JESUS is the name above ALL names, with the GREATEST following, both in Heaven and on earth. He is the God of Truth, the One who came to SAVE the world, not to destroy it.  He wants us to go deeper into relationship with HIM.

This post is revelation which has been confirmed over and over again in the past few years, both through the study of God’s Word, and fresh revelation from the Lord, who is the LIVING Word and still speaking loudly today.  We have shared this subject several times before, but the Lord showed me today that it is time to boldly share it again, to urge you to draw closer to Jesus to receive revelation directly.  With an open heart, ASK Him to show you the TRUTH about this and about all the places where Truth is being suppressed.  He is faithful to reveal in the way you are most able to receive.  

This is not a post for argument on this or any other subject.  We are pleased to obey our Lord in sharing it, and implore you to seek God directly, for confirmation.  No matter what you believe, you are LOVED here, unconditionally, as Jesus loves us!  

~~~~~~~~~~~~  

1.3.2020

FALSE teaching persuades us away from Truth, and leads us to wander away from the Good Shepherd.  But do not fear.  Jesus comes to find us!

The Teaching of the Church being “Raptured”, escaping this world at the return of Jesus, is:

🌳~~ False Teaching 

🌳~~ A misinterpretation of God's Word – believing certain scriptures are for today, yet to come, when they have been fulfilled long ago (many at 70 AD).  Scripture is interpreted accurately by the leading of the Holy Spirit, through a Kingdom lens of history and context.  

🌳~~ Promotes fear – the opposite of faith  (Repent before it’s too LATE! Fear of not going to Heaven, being “left behind”.) 

🌳~~ Confuses right from wrong, twists Truth, supports deception, invokes war rather than peace, divides rather than unites Christ’s Church.   

🌳~~ Promotes the end of the world, rather than the end of an AGE. 

Ask yourself questions regarding THREE specific areas:

👑~ Who is Jesus Christ? ~

What did God send Him to do?  Many of us memorize John 3:16, which speaks of why God sent Jesus, and we stop there.  What does John 3:17 say?

👑~ What is GOD’s Will for humankind? ~

What do we BELIEVE is God’s WILL? Destruction or Restoration? ~~ 2 Peter 3:9; Philippians 2:9-11; Revelation 21:5

👑~ What is God’s TRUE Nature? ~

What do we believe is God’s NATURE? Wrath or Love? Is God good or bad? ~~John 3:16; John 13:34; Romans 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 2 Corinthians 5:21

💕 Be blessed today, as you go deeper with God, at this critical time in history.  What we BELIEVE matters!  You are SO loved. 💕  Thank You, Lord, for revealing Your Truth as we seek You with open hearts, in the beautiful name of  our Savior, Jesus  we pray....AMEN. 🙏

📖 "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth, as it is in Heaven." 📖 "Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory, through our Lord Jesus Christ."  ~Matt. 5:10; 1 Cor. 15:57

✨🌿  Have NO fear!   🌿✨

As we continue on our journey with Jesus, a good measure of our maturity in the faith, is to stop and assess our level of fear with the Lord.  This is not fun, but can be extremely helpful, if we are eager for change.  I remember my Dad saying to me at an early age "What you worry about never happens."  He instilled in me that worry is not helpful.  I have never forgotten this, and the Lord has confirmed this often, by showing me that worry is actually fear. The Word says over and over not to fear.

What are you most afraid of?  Let’s face these together today.  

These are common fears which many, if not most of us, have experienced along the way.  I am led to place them in 4 simple categories, (rejection, provision, loss, the unknown) so that we can look at them together.  Under each category, I will place scriptures to review, if God reveals to you that it’s time to place any of these fears behind.  Meditate on these, say them out loud, repeat them often, until they sink deeply into your soul: 

💗 Rejection: fear of making a mistake, fear of failure, fear of what others think of us, fear of being misunderstood, fear of not being heard and/or respected, fear of disappointing others, fear of doing or saying anything which does not glorify God, fear of God’s wrath. 

📖~John 15:18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.

📖~Proverbs 29:25 “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.”

📖~Luke 10:16 “The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

📖~Romans 8:31 “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

📖~Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

📖~1 John 3:1 “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”

📖~Hebrews 12:3 “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.”

📖~Luke 6:22 “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man!

📖~Ephesians 1:3-6 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.”

📖~Psalm 145:8 "The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love." 

📖~Luke 12:32  “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

💗 Provision:  fear of lack (not having enough to support basic needs), fear of hunger, fear of missing out on an opportunity, fear of heavy responsibility for family or others, fear of failing as a parent, fear of not doing enough or being enough.

📖~Psalm 23:1  “The Lord is my Shepherd.  I shall not want”.

📖~Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

📖~Philippians 4:19  “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

📖~Matthew 6:26  "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?”

📖~Hebrews 13:5  “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, "I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,"

📖~Matthew 11:28  "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.”

📖~Genesis 22:14  “Abraham called the name of that place The LORD Will Provide, as it is said to this day, "In the mount of the LORD it will be provided."

📖~Luke 12:32  “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

💗 Loss:  Fear of getting old, fear of being alone, fear of retirement, fear of being taken advantage of, fear of being robbed, fear of physical harm, fear of being homeless, fear of falling out of fellowship with God.

📖~Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

📖~Romans 8:38-39 “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

📖~John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

📖~Luke 12:32  “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

💗 The Unknown:  Fear of the future, fear of change, fear of consequences, fear of stepping out of our comfort zone, fear of not being forgiven, fear of leading others astray, fear of conspiracy theories, fear of darkness. 

📖~2 Timothy 1:7 “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

📖~Ephesians 1:3-6 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.”

📖~John 5:24 “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.”

📖~John 11:25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.”

📖~Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

📖~Luke 12:32  “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

🎶~~“Fear is a Liar”  https://youtu.be/CKzQjrMe-Ag

🎶~~"Trust in You"  https://youtu.be/1W5ViDDcapg

🎶~~"But Thanks Be To God Who Gives us the Victory" https://youtu.be/wJTS9sBVSzE

🎶~~"A Thousand Years" https://youtu.be/hrM-Bkm4c_I

🙏~~Heavenly Father, we come before You today and thank You for Your TRUTH.  We know that fear is the opposite of faith, and we choose to never believe lies again.  I pray for all who read this post today, that their FAITH be greatly increased, as all fear is placed behind them forever!  This is a NEW DAY, and we thank You for new beginnings!  Increase our trust, Lord, so that we are certain that You have us, and You are never letting us go.  Help us to walk hand in hand with You, perfectly aligned, with bold confidence to love unconditionally and do the things Jesus did, to advance Your Kingdom here on earth, in the powerful name of Jesus….AMEN.

~ccs 🌿👑🌿  For more teaching resources, visit us at: https://gloriouscm.org/

⚖️~ A Whole Lot of Judging ~  An Overview of Matthew 7

At this time in history, many of us are concerned about false teaching and false prophets. This concern tends to bring out things in us, at times, which need to be checked, seeking the Lord for wisdom, forgiveness and transformation.  Jesus teaches us about judging others, and gives us clear direction regarding false prophets in the book of Matthew, the 7th Chapter.  It is a great road map for us in these times.

Jesus warns us about judging others:

📖~~Matthew 7:1-5 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?  How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?  You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

In studying this passage, it appears that Jesus is reminding us that we are human. We make mistakes, and do not see things the same way.  It is easy to point out the imperfections in others, and ignore the things that need changing in ourselves. Furthermore, by pointing out the mistakes of others (judging), we appear to feel better, as we deceive ourselves into feeling that we are “better than” them.  We can fall so easily into hypocrisy.  This impedes our spiritual development, slows down the precious transformation process, the work Jesus is SO GOOD to do in us as we surrender all to Him. 

By the help of the Lord, we need to SEE through a KINGDOM LENS, a lens which is crystal CLEAR, especially when placed in leadership over others, just as His first disciples.  As we gently encourage, shepherding those God places in our territory, Jesus meets them in love, and personally guides them into truth.  All we need do is to point them to Jesus, our most brilliant Teacher.

It can be frustrating, for sure, when we see others who are in a very different place than we are, in the areas of theology, eschatology, the prophetic, and the way we interpret scripture.  It is frustrating to see many teaching as if we are still operating under the Old Covenant, as if what Jesus accomplished for us on the cross did not change anything.  And it is frustrating to see those who believe that the best way to lead others to Jesus is through fear of going to a place which God never intended for us.  For me, it is most challenging to see a focus on the defeated enemy, when I have been there, done that, and will never go back.  Jesus taught me that when all our focus is on HIM, truly EVERYTHING changes.  It’s amazing when we experience such life changing things.  We want everyone to benefit from what we have learned, yet only God can truly change the heart of another.  What we CAN do is to testify to God’s transforming power in US. 

So we cannot deny that there are very REAL frustrations for those passionate in the Lord right now.  We want all to teach TRUTH.  However, no matter what our frustrations or differences, Jesus says that we are NOT to JUDGE.  None of us is perfect.  If we were, there would be no need for a Savior!  As we look to the SAVIOR as the only Judge, the truth of our identity comes forth, that in CHRIST we ARE a new creation, having become the righteousness of God.  (2 Corinthians 5:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21) 

✨~ Do you find yourself judging others?  ASK, SEEK, KNOCK! 

📖~~Matthew 7:7-11 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.  Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent?  If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!”

✨~ About False Prophets: We Recognize Them by Their Fruits 

📖~~Matthew 7:15-20 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.  You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?  So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.  A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.  Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.”

According to these words of Jesus, we are to “be aware” or “watch out for” false prophets.  This passage tells us how we will recognize them.  I do not see anything in this passage that says we are to “judge” them or “fear” them, but that we are only to “recognize them”, so that their words and actions will not have an influence on the development of our faith, and/or mindset.  We cannot be corrupted by what we do not receive. The Lord helps us discern who they are by their fruit.

Do we see the fruit of the Spirit in those in leadership over ourselves and others, and do they bring out these good fruits in us?  For me, true apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists and teachers of God are humble, just like Jesus.  From this humble spirit of servanthood, seeds of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are planted, both by example, and by words and actions. So we can recognize these things in each other, and also recognize when something is amiss, by the help of God.  At times, Jesus may speak to them through us, in order to plant a seed of truth, which He will tend and nourishes to bring about change in His perfect timing. This is a beautiful dance with God, which blesses us as we allow ourselves to be used for God’s good purpose. 💝🙏🎁

📖~~Galatians 5:22  “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

✨~ Build Your House on the Rock ~

Are we wise or foolish these days? 😊 📖~~Matthew 7:24-29 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.  But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

✨~ The Authority of Jesus ~

📖~~Vs. 29: “When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.”

Jesus has entrusted His authority to us, a precious responsibility.  By His help, we will be gentle shepherds to each other, loving unconditionally, encouraging each other’s growth, without judgement.  We choose wisdom.  Thanks be to God!    

📖~~2 Corinthians 5:21 “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

~ccs ✨ For easy access to more teaching resources, visit us at https://gloriouscm.org/

A Vision of Two Garden Tools 🍁🌿 A Rake and a Shovel

The Lord showed me a rake and a shovel, which began an interesting conversation about what these garden tools are used for.  

🎁~ The rake is used to rake, to “sweep up” things which are no longer alive, such as leaves which have fallen off of deciduous trees in the fall.  These leaves are now dead, no longer receiving nourishment from the tree, so the rake is used as a tool to gather, to “clean up”, allowing the sun to get through, to shine on what is uncovered by raking.  This brings new growth in the places which have been covered up by dead things.

🎁~ The shovel is used in a much different way, but the end result is similar.  The shovel is used to “dig”.  We break the soil, dig into the dirt, most often to “plant something new”.  The result of “digging” brings new life, new growth.  The term “digging” is also used when speaking of all things spiritual.  We “dig” into God’s Word.  We dig deeper into the scriptures, as the Lord helps us grow in Truth, in wisdom and discernment.  Digging deeper, by the help of the Lord, grows our FAITH.  

💌~ The Message Received ~💌

Church, how eager are we today, and in all the days ahead, to allow Jesus free REIGN to our belief system?  How eager are we to place ourselves in His hands to transform our thinking, to allow Him to shine a light on the things we believe, which He knows are false, to shift us into truth?

Jesus is clearing away what is “dead”, things we’ve held onto tightly for way too long.  These are things such as bad teachings, lies, and the misinterpretation of scripture.  On our personal journey, He clears away what is “dead”, replacing them with Truth, to bring LIFE and increase FAITH.  His Word is “ALIVE”, just as HE is alive.  👑

Friends, God gives us free will.  We can choose to hold onto everything we believe SO tightly, exhibiting behavior toward others, like a dog with a bone, angry, insisting we are right, while another who may share a slightly different understanding, is wrong.  We can choose to keep our minds and hearts closed to the Lord’s personal revelations, no longer willing to learn, to “dig” deeper. We can choose offense, attacking another who suggests there may be more to discern.

Or we can choose to surrender ALL to our Savior, and place ourselves in the hands of Jesus, like clay, to mold us, to shape us, to continue to TEACH us, assuming that we know but a little, given the big picture of all God intends to reveal to those who are open.  We can choose to have open minds and hearts to learning new things, from the Lord, and through others who are on their journey, just like we are. Rather than becoming angry and offended when we hear something contrary to what we currently believe, we can choose to be respectful, rather than lashing out, seeking the Lord for confirmation of what He may be showing us in this uncomfortable moment. If we feel taken out of our comfort zone, it is helpful to be aware that God does this OFTEN for our spiritual growth. This process allows us to go deeper into faith, while increasing the intimacy in our relationship with God.  ✨

Jesus IS the most brilliant Teacher and He is STILL actively teaching by power of the Holy Spirit each day to lead and guide.  HE IS the Author and Finisher of our Faith.  He is not finished with our faith.  We is always Teaching, always showing us new things.  It is Wonder-FULL. 👑🎉💗

Ask the Lord today if there are any places in your belief system which need a slight “clean-up”, any places which should be raked, to reveal something new.  Ask Him if there are any specific places He wants you to dig even deeper.  He is faithful to show you, step by step.  It is a JOYFUL process, His continued equipping of His people.  🎉

You are SO loved.  📖~John 3:16-17

📖~~ Hebrews 12:1-2  “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
📖~~ Hebrews 6:1-2 “Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.”

~ccs 💦 For free teachings, daily devotions, testimonies and inspiration, visit our website at:   https://gloriouscm.org/

What does the term End Times mean to you? Do you view it “literally” as an END or do you see it “spiritually” as a beginning?

The Lord brought back these scriptures, and it was a time of increased revelation as He reminded me of the deeper understanding He has taught us of this term “End Times”. 

📖 ~~John 3:16-17 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”~~

Many of us know John 3:16 by heart, and can recite it easily, this being a foundational verse of our faith, however, often times the next verse, which is vital to our belief system right NOW, is overlooked. Verse 17 has taken on great meaning for me in the past few years.

💗 God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but rather, to SAVE it. 💗

The term End Times can bring a feeling of sudden fury/unrest to the spirit, for those who understand this term to mean the end of the world. This understanding brings fear, a feeling of not being ready to meet Jesus face to face, needing to prove our worth, striving to be perfect. This view has the potential to draw us AWAY from a deeper TRUST in GOD, rather than TOWARD the deep FAITH and TRUST we desire.

God has taught me and many other brother and sisters in the Body of Christ, to understand this eschatological term differently (our view of the future). When we understand this term from a Kingdom view, meaning “the end of this ERA or AGE”, it changes everything. Now we see that, when we speak of an “end”, we know that it is also the beginning of a NEW time, one of true CHANGE, where we SEE and witness the KINGDOM being advanced to the four corners of the earth. This new beginning is one of God’s truth being spread throughout the world. This view is one of the Body of Christ coming together in LOVE as ONE, as we live under the new commandment of Jesus to love one another as He loves us. 📖 (John 13:34-35) 

This understanding becomes a true FEAST and is REST and PEACE for us as followers of Jesus. This view brings JOY in each day, as we are moving toward the NEW, with a deeper FAITH and TRUST that God is making ALL THINGS NEW, just as is promised in His Word, and we are SO blessed to be a part of it. From GLORY to GLORY…..Day by Day…..Ordered Steps……Hallelujah! 🤣

  https://gloriouscm.org/

👣 “How Beautiful Are the Feet” 👣

Hearing these words today made me run to this verse we know so well in the Book of Isaiah, to read the full context. 

Our feet carry the weight of our entire body. They take us where we need to go, as we walk out our God-given purpose. Are you feeling ‘light’ on your feet today, running the race with ease? Or are you feeling weighed down, moving slower, or even paralyzed by fear, not able to move at all? 

We are light on our feet, spiritually, when we follow the ways of Jesus, on the path of peace. We are peacemakers, modern day John the Baptists, called to share the GOOD NEWS of Jesus, to make disciples of all nations. We are to prepare the way for Jesus, to make His paths straight. 

✨ Our God is not the author of confusion. He is the Author and Finisher of our FAITH. 

Yet, many Church leaders have veered off of this straight pathway, by choosing to raise up another to follow, as if they were a king, a false god, using them to further what they believe is a ‘righteous’ agenda. They have encouraged masses numbers of believers onto a crooked path, one which has led to violence. 

This has resulted in a great confusion of faith. What these believers are ‘seeing’, no longer lines up with what they ‘have heard’ from those they have trusted to speak the truth of God. Many Christians are feeling disenfranchised, like their spiritual home has been ripped away. Some are fleeing the Church, no longer wanting to have anything to do with a belief system which no longer reflects the Person of Jesus.

✨~ We will not give up! 💙🤍💕We will not lose hope! ~

As I heard the Lord say “Ancient of Days” yesterday, I was led to the Book of Daniel, Chapters 2 and 7 which speak of this, one of the many names of God. The Lord reminded me that though these scriptures have been fulfilled, many teach as if they are yet before us. In these times of confusion, this has led many into fear, and away from faith. Teaching what the Word reveals about things to come (eschatology), when many are eager for answers to that which is mystery, bears great responsibility. We take one step at a time and learn to TRUST GOD day by day, to follow Jesus, becoming more like Him. We allow God to show us His JOY to strengthen, while moving forward in Him. 

We remember the promise of the One who was from the beginning of time, from the very first day, who IS with us, and who is yet to come. He is the ANCIENT of DAYS, and His promise is certain, to make ALL THINGS NEW. 

✨ He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." ~ Revelation 21:5 

We have been through a great trauma, where much of what we’ve known has been turned upside down, just as Jesus turned over the tables in the Temple in a period of great hypocrisy, deception and unrest. We must ask ourselves: Who do stand with in this story? Fast forward to today. We are faced with the very same question. 

We have been given a second chance, a new beginning, a reset, as all eyes are opened to Truth. We can’t give up. GOD is FAITHFUL, TRUSTWORTHY and TRUE. 🤍

🙏 Thank You, ANCIENT of DAYS! 🙏

Please access and meditate on the full context of Isaiah 52 today:

📖~ Isaiah 52:5-7 5 “And now what do I have here?” declares the Lord. “For my people have been taken away for nothing, and those who rule them mock,” declares the Lord. “And all day long my name is constantly blasphemed. 6 Therefore my people will know my name; therefore in that day they will know that it is I who foretold it. Yes, it is I.” 7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” 

🎶 “Ancient of Days” https://youtu.be/q0A-CDyuz_k

Soli Deo Gloria! 💙🤍💕Cheryl Colantonio Storey, https://gloriouscm.org