Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Who is God?

Dictionary: a god is one that is worshiped, idealized, or followed.

So... who or what do you worship? Who or what do you idealize? Who or what do you follow?

Drugs

Alcohol

Yourself

Money

Pornography

Fame

Sexual Perversions

The Culture

Movie Stars

Secret Sins
Social Status

Lie's

The Devil
Tradition

Unforgiveness

Hatred

Self-Righteousness

Self-Condemnation

Religion
Your Own Opinions
Your Parents Faith
Your Career
Spirits
Agnostic
Denominations

Liberal Opinions that DO NOT line-up with God's Word

Status Quo?

Or, do you follow the One true God of the Universe?
AND...
Do you "do" what He says to do?

Luke 6:46 says, "So why do you keep calling me 'Lord, Lord!' when you don't do what I say?" So MANY people today are claiming to know "God," but they are not in a right relationship with Him.

So, who is God anyway?

He is holy.

He is just.

He is perfect.
He is righteous.
He is judge over all.
He is mighty.
He is majestic.

He is all-powerful (omnipotent).

He is all-knowing (omniscient).

He is present everywhere at the same time (omnipresent).

He is above all others with supreme rank, power and authority (sovereign).

He is the CREATOR... the originator and RULER of the universe.
... And, yes He is love.

So why does His creation (mankind) constantly try to redefine who He is? Why do we claim to believe "this" or "that" as being truth? Shouldn't we ASK the One who made it all? Shouldn't we search Him out with our "whole heart?" Shouldn't we approach His ways with a humble spirit? Shouldn't we confess our sins to Him and ask Him to forgive us and wash us clean?

And, what is sin - anyway?

According to the dictionary, sin is an immoral act considered to be a transgression against divine law. Who's divine law? Answer: God's law!!!

How can we know God's law? Answer: He has defined His law in the Holy Bible.

And for those of you who think that the Jewish religion, Muslim religion, Buddhism and others have a different standard... think again. It is "people" who change laws to make them what they want. If we take the time to really research the origins of these other religions we will find that most all of them go back to Abraham and/or creation (from the Bible). This is evidence that "people" have been adamant about changing God's divine Word to say what they want it to say since the beginning of time. Hence, more ways to God... and more religions.

As babies are born into various cultures who practice such other religions, most of these offspring will follow traditional practices without ever really questioning God for the absolute TRUTH; claiming their way to be the truth but not "humbly" seeking God Himself for the answer.

And nowadays, the American culture has made it quite en vogue to pick and choose which religion to follow. There is no humble seeking of the One True God. There is no desperate need to be free from the stain of sin. Instead, culture says you can have your sin and your religion, too, because God is so good that He doesn't care. Nothing could be further from the truth. God wants us free from sin because the wages of sin is death! (Romans 6:23) God does not want us to die, that's the devils evil scheme. God wants us to have LIFE and to have life more abundantly. (John 10:10)

Isn't it strange how the Bible can be interpreted differently between 2 different people? That's because one of them - or both of them - is choosing to read it through their tinted glasses of pride, rebellion and hidden sin. When the Bible is read with a "humble" heart, the Holy Spirit will teach all people the same thing. Granted each humble soul will be at a different level of understanding on their journey of faith throughout their lifetime of growing in the knowledge of God; BUT, these humble souls (Christ followers) will not be at odds with each other about the basic fundamentals of WHO JESUS IS... WHAT SIN IS... HOW TO GET TO GOD... ETC.

No matter where I have traveled in this world, I have found that when I start to "humbly" talk about Jesus and the Word of God - people listen! Deep in the heart of all humanity there is a longing to know the one true God of the universe. I have shared my testimony with Muslims and Jews alike, and I have seen the voice of God touch their heart as the Holy Spirit of all Truth revealed Himself to them at that very moment. Even though religion, pride and sin will keep many people from knowing the One true God, the truth is that most people really do want to know and understand their Creator. Deep in their heart they know there is more than what their religion (or the lack thereof) has taught them. While they may not earnestly seek after Him, when He is spoken of they recognize His voice, recognize His nature, recognize His ways and recognize His holiness.

So, getting back to the definition of God, it grieves me (really it grieves God) to hear of so many "so-called" Christians and ministers of the gospel who live in, and practice, known sin such as child molestation, adultery, homosexuality, drug addiction, alcoholism, pornography, cheating, lying and so on. The question is, "Who is REALLY your god?" "Who do you serve?" "Who (or what) gets most of your attention?" "Who (or what) do you rely on when tormenting thoughts bombard your mind?"

James 1:15 says, "Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin; and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death."

The Bible is clear that we all have bad thoughts. We all have lusts. We all have sinful inclinations. The difference in that of a sinner who is lost in his ways (separated from God) and a true child of God is the grace (POWER) that they have been given by God to "obey" the Holy Spirit and not ACT upon their perversions. So, the thought itself is not sin, but once we conceive a thought as being our own and then act upon that thought - we sin. When we make that thought, that desire, that thing our god - we agree with sin!

1 John 4:20 says, "If a man say, “I love God,” and hateth his brother, he is a LIAR. For he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?"

Do we honestly believe that someone who commits adultery against their spouse really loves their spouse? Do we honestly believe that someone who takes advantage of a child through sexual perversion loves that child? Do we honestly think that someone who kills them self with drugs or alcohol really loves them self... or their family? Do we honestly think that someone who lives a bald face lie really loves others?

James 1:22-25 says, "But be ye DOERS of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed."

A god is one that is worshiped, idealized, or followed.

So, today's questions remain: Who or what do you worship? Who or what do you idealize? Who or what do you follow? Who or what do you esteem as absolute truth? Who or what voices do you listen to?

Do you follow the One true God of the Universe... AND, do you "do" what He says to do?

Matthew 7:21-23(ERV) says, “Not everyone who calls me Lord will enter God’s kingdom. The only people who will enter are those who do what my Father in heaven wants. On that last Day many will call me Lord. They will say, ‘Lord, Lord, by the power of your name we spoke for God. And by your name we forced out demons and did many miracles.’ Then I will tell those people clearly, ‘Get away from me, you people who do wrong. I never knew you.’”

Now, we have all heard that God is love... and this is true! But do we also know that He is just? Sadly, this world has chosen to only believe that He is love, but they have rejected the fact that He is just. They have neglected to see that love does not allow someone to kill them self... or others. Love always gives warnings, boundaries and guidelines. Think about how a parent loves a child. Will they let their child do things that they know will harm them? No. A good parent sets boundaries for their children so that they can grow in safety and a wholesome environment. A good parent wants their children to respect authority. God is the same with us.

So this particular article is not about the love of God (which is very important), but rather it is about the righteousness of God (which is also very important). Because, He is! He is God! He is our Creator! And... He makes the rules for living a GOOD LIFE on this earth and in the life to come.

Will you seek Him with your whole heart today? Will you ask Him to reveal the truth of who He is according to His word? Will you believe His word (the Bible) and take it for face value (not twisting it to make it conform to your sinful lusts)?

If you are Jewish, will you read the New Testament to see what it says about this good man Jesus?

If you are Muslim will you read the Injeel to see what it says about this prophet Jesus?

If you are of any other faith would you humbly read the Bible and ask God to let you know if this is for real or not?

If you are struggling with addictions, homosexuality, pornography, rage or any other perversion, would you dive into the Bible to "humbly" see what God has to say about these conditions? I know there are many "so-called" churches who teach that these things are "just the way you are" but friend, that is a lie from the pit of hell. You were born to be like God - holy and righteous. You were born to be free from the bondage of sin. Would you ask Him to set you FREE by the power of the blood of Jesus? He wants to!

If we really want to know the One true God... ASK HIM TO REVEAL HIMSELF!

Because... HE WILL!

John 14:21

"He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him."

John 17:3

"And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Forgiveness: How to Overcome Bitterness

WOMAN2WOMAN: THE NAOMI & RUTH EXPERIENCE

LESSON FIVE

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28 LESSONS

Forgiveness / Overcoming Bitterness

BIBLE TRUTH

Only forgiveness will heal the internal wounds of the mind, will and emotions. Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door and releases all forms of hurt (emotional pain that follows a grievous event). On the other hand, bitterness is the poison that keeps an offense alive in our hearts and minds. Bitterness uses the voice of torment to continually remind us of our injury.

Romans 12:21 says, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” We are overcome with evil when we don't forgive, because Satan uses unforgiveness to grow his kingdom of hatred in the hearts and lives of humanity. The devil's desire is for us to return evil thoughts for evil deeds. He knows that by creating painful offenses in our lives he can cause us to hold resentment toward others. He knows that the unforgiving poison of resentment will keep the goodness of God's kingdom from working in, and through, our lives. Unforgiveness gives Satan the victory as bitterness grows into anger, wrath, hatred, revenge, violence and even murder (either through our thoughts and words, or, by our actual deeds).

When we choose to forgive a perpetrator from biting words, rejection, abuse, or even physical harm, we have overcome that evil with good. God’s wisdom surpasses our understanding as His grace gives us the ability to forgive even the most heinous of crimes. Not only does forgiveness release us from the invisible prison of pain and torment, but it also releases God’s love to heal our wounds.

Take a moment and read Matthew 18:15-35, which is all about forgiving. One important principle is in verse 18. Did you know that you can bind unforgiveness and loose forgiveness in your heart and soul? Discuss.

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Ps 133:1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

A DEEPER LOOK

In Hebrews 12:16-17, we are reminded of Esau despising his birthright. Our birthright into God’s kingdom is a gift based on the forgiveness given to us through the blood of Jesus Christ.

Esau sold his birthright for some meat (obviously, he didn’t value it). God requires that we forgive others as we have been forgiven by Him for our sins (Matthew 6:12) - this is how God’s kingdom works. He gives to us, and we give to others. It is a dangerous thing to devalue our birthright by not forgiving others. Just as Esau sold his birthright, we can sell ours for bitterness. The act of forgiveness is an extension of our birthright.

If there is still hurt attached to the memory of an offensive event in our lives, then forgiveness is not complete. God’s completed work of forgiveness will enable us to remember the wrongdoing, but we will not suffer from the painful effects of someone else's actions any longer.

Remember, forgiveness does not mean that we submit to further abuse from that same source. We can forgive people who have mistreated us, and at the same time not tolerate their victimization any longer.

Recognize and make a list of the hurts you have experienced.

Mark 11:26

But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

WORKING IN YOUR LIFE

Forgiveness from the heart is the only kind of forgiveness that works. Forgiveness from the heart is not an intellectual forgiveness, nor is it the result of someone trying to be super-spiritual; instead, forgiveness is an attitude that emulates Jesus.

Forgiveness is not an emotion, but an act of will. If you wait for an emotion, you won’t forgive because unforgiveness is already present and at work in your heart, mind and body.

Learning to separate the person from the sin makes it possible to forgive people who have done evil things. You can hate evil and that is a very good thing (Proverbs 8:13), but you can’t hate the person. Jesus was able to forgive those that murdered him. He was able to separate sin from the person, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” As Christians, we are born-again into the same Spirit (1 Peter 1:22-23) so we can also respond in the same manner as Jesus.

Forgiveness is something we need to do every day. Take an inventory of each day, and make those hurts, whether big or small, inconsequential with forgiveness. When we fail by returning evil for evil, we must quickly repent so that we can move ahead. Forgiving quickly will protect us, by not giving place to the devil in our lives (Ephesians 4:26-27).

God is so much bigger than the evil done to us; so, we can trust Him with all hurtful events. Evil is never right, but God is the avenger.

Read Luke 6:31-36. What is God saying?

Do you think you can forgive? If not, why?

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE

What does bitterness do? It avoids people, turns stomachs, causes mental and emotional pain, causes piercing hostility, builds invisible walls, causes paralyzing thoughts and it can even make someone physically sick and/or terminally ill. Manifestations of bitterness might be seen in self-doubt, sarcasm, a hardened face, a gruff voice, foul language, rebellion, negativity, addictions, spitting, hitting, withdrawal from society, hoarding, and/or sexual promiscuity. Perhaps you've witnessed the bitterness of someone else. If so, what you saw was their bitterness defiling them.

One example of the manifestation of bitterness in the Old Testament is the story of Joseph and his brothers. Their dislike was so great that they were going to kill him, but instead, ended up selling him into slavery. Bitterness separates us from God, separates us from others and even separates us from ourselves. Unchecked bitterness will result in destroyed relationships.

Has anyone else's bitterness ever affected you? Explain.

Would you be willing to confess that you hate bitterness and what it does to mankind? Will you ask God to take all bitterness from you?

Will you take responsibility and name any sinful responses of bitterness that you have had?

MAKING IT HAPPEN!

1. When we fail to read and understand God's word, painful offenses can even cause us to develop bitterness toward God. Harboring lying thoughts such as; "God has forgotten me" or, “God has caused this to happen to me" can play into the devil's evil device of luring us away from the only One who can truly save and heal us from our torment. Scripture tells us plainly that the devil is the one who wants to kill, steal and destroy and that Jesus is the one who gives us life more abundantly (John 10:10). God is love (1 John 4:16). Repent to God now for any bitterness you may have toward Him.

2. Forgive yourself if you hold regret, shame and guilt. With repentance, God not only forgives, but also cleanses us from all unrighteousness. It is sinful to not forgive ourselves when Holy God has already forgiven us.

3. Forgive others for the pain they have caused you. Take the list you made of "hurtful events" and repent to God for any bitterness you have toward others. Tell God you forgive and release each person of the debt of sin that was committed against you.

4. Ask others for forgiveness. If you have caused pain, offended or defiled someone else, you may need to go to that person and tell them that you are sorry for your actions. Make this easy and don’t replay the "hurtful event" as that could stir up anger. Simply say, "I have had bitterness towards you, and I am sorry. Please forgive me."

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Romans 12:2

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

HOMEWORK

Our homework is the ongoing process of walking out of bitterness and changing our ways of thinking to the mind of Christ. We do this by holding every thought captive and rejecting those thoughts that don’t line up with the Word of God (2 Corinthians 10:5). This is an ongoing effort, so be kind and patient with yourself. God is thrilled that you are learning about your birthright!

Ask God to give you His love for all people and then practice making statements of faith that declare where you want to go in your forgiveness journey. Remember, forgiveness is a process that begins with a decision. Although difficult to feel, initially, forgiveness is where your heart is pointed and complete healing will be the end result of God's forgiving grace.

NAOMI & RUTH REFLECTION

Initially, Naomi blamed God for her problems. We know in the whole council of the Word of God that the Lord does not bring us evil; He sent His Son to destroy it. There is hope for all of us as we see Naomi work through her "‘hurtful events" as she returned to her home and to her God. The reward for her obedience was restoration of her life. This is also available to you.

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***This lesson was contributed by Marlene Bussert. The Woman2Woman: Naomi & Ruth Experience Bible Study is a joint project between Deborah Ross Ministries and Safer Communities Ministry. Many teachers and ministers of the gospel from across the USA have contributed lessons contained in this study. Deborah Ross is the main contributor and the chief editor of this project.

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About this Study

The Woman2Woman: Naomi & Ruth Experience Bible study uses the example of the relationship between Naomi and Ruth as a model for women who desire to participate in a discipleship program to the glory of God. It is specifically designed for use in a mentoring setting that takes place once per week whereby a more mature Christian woman makes a commitment to serve as the mentor in a Bible study relationship with another woman who is newer (less knowledgeable) in the faith. By sharing and discussing one study topic at each meeting, the hearts of both women involved will be transformed as God in their midst speaks to each of them through His Word (Matthew 18:20).

In addition to cultivating a new believer’s knowledge of the Word, this in-depth study guide is a great resource that can be used to minister help and healing from: a broken heart; shattered relationships; addictions; prison/jail time; a life of dysfunction; abandonment; mental, physical or sexual abuse; depression; and beyond. This material is also designed to bring healing to extended female family members of those suffering, as well.

Realizing that there are many potential mentors who really want God to use them in a powerful way, this material has been designed to ease the apprehension that may cause the willing leader to feel inadequate. Like Naomi, you don’t have to be perfect (free from struggles) in order to mentor and disciple another woman. You just need to be following the Lord in honest, scriptural ways and you’ll need to make yourself available to love another person by sharing what you do know about the Lord at this time in your life.

28 LESSONS!

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Monday, July 7, 2014

How to Overcome Demonic Oppression

In a day and age where speaking of demonic spirits is not considered kosher in mainstream Christianity, the devil is having a field day harassing, oppressing and even possessing individuals who are ignorant to spiritual warfare. In America, it seems we'd rather seek counseling, stronger pills, alcohol, street drugs, unholy sex, dangerous surgeries and even prison to fix problems of the soul than to ever seek deliverance from the Lord. Why is this?

I have found that true ministry gets messy at times. It's kind of like surgery; in that, it is an intrusive, invasive and a radical solution for receiving healing. It can be bloody. It can take hours. It can be frightening. Sometimes, it takes more than one surgery to fix the problem; and, for some, there can even be a long recovery period.

There are some who are being harassed by demons due to generational family dysfunction. Others have given Satan legal ground through a sinful lifestyle. Some may have been the victim of someone else's sin. There are even those who have not been able to adequately deflect normal disappointments in life, resulting in self abuse by negative inner chatter and in some cases by inflicting pain on themselves perhaps through rebellion, substance abuse or cutting. I have often found that the deeper the wound, the messier the deliverance. My motto is, "the uglier it was going in, the uglier it might be coming out." So, when God's people - as a whole - put guidelines on how that person is to act while being delivered, they are creating a wall of defense that may actually prevent that person from being delivered - at all.

Sadly, in an effort to adhere to being decent and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40), mainstream church often neglects the dirty work that is required to bring wholeness and healing to many who are suffering from demonic torment (whether secretly or openly). We should look at the example of Jesus and the consistent character of God throughout the scriptures when determining our philosophy of God's will. We should not rely upon our man made by-laws. All throughout the Bible the Lord is doing supernatural works in an effort to bring restoration, healing, deliverance and fellowship back to mankind. It's the devil and the works of the flesh that are constantly trying to lure us back into the sin and dysfunction that leads to bondage and torment. But God wants us FREE and He is not lacking in His methods for bringing wholeness and healing to humanity.

It has been my experience that the enemy knows no boundaries. Just because his mode of operation doesn't fit into a persons theology, this doesn't stop him from attacking those who thought they had it all figured out. 1 Peter 5:8 says the devil is as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. He is looking for legal ground to wreak havoc in a persons life. His intent is to thwart God's plan by keeping God's prized creation from ever coming into fellowship with Him. But... if someone is already a Christian, the devils next best plan is to tempt God's children into "little sins" that cause bondage, dysfunction, distractions and even paralyzation. The devil will do anything he can in order to render Christians ineffective in their witness and worship of the Lord.

Over the years, I have seen many levels of demonic bondage ranging from: annoying battles of the mind; to drug and alcohol addictions; to seething bitterness, outright hatred and even murder; to evil manipulation; to mental breakdown. Sure, each condition has a medical and/or social name that seems to make it sound less "messy," but the fact of the matter is that the enemy of our soul is behind it all. The devil doesn't care what you call it and he doesn't really care how you treat it as long as you don't administer deliverance. Satan wants to make people think that this is their God ordained plight so that they'll learn to live with their malady and never seek the Lord for complete healing; hence, people in bondage don't bring the Kingdom of God to earth because they are too busy dealing with their own problems.

The good news is that Jesus came to show us the will of the Father. Jesus healed the sick and rebuked the demons. He taught us how to avoid sinful lifestyles that invited Satan's entrance into our lives. Jesus came to earth to "deliver us!" Even so, many that are bound by demonic influence will stay that way their entire life because of man-made methods and rules that the Lord never intended for the church to put into place. We serve a supernatural God who does things in a supernatural way. He only wants us to trust Him and to not restrict Him with our false idols of sophistication and our self-preserving reputations of pride.

So, how does one overcome demonic harassment, oppression and even possession? I've got more good news! Christians have been given all authority over the enemy when they administer healing and deliverance in Jesus' name. There is a remedy of deliverance for everyone. Even so, the healing pathway will not necessarily be the same for each individual. Since each demonic stronghold gained legal ground through various types of sin (whether self inflicted or brought about by another), the road to healing may look different with each individual. Never-the-less, every deliverance comes through the authority of Jesus the Christ.

While the solution to demonic deliverance is quite simple; for some, the process can be difficult and even seem impossible. It goes back to the same old argument that has been raised for centuries. Jesus did not heal everyone; in fact, he was unable to heal those in his own hometown because of their unbelief (Matthew 13:58). So, unbelief can be one reason that some won't receive deliverance. But there is another reason that some won't receive deliverance and that is their "fear of the unknown." Some people get so comfortable in their dysfunction or malady that they are actually afraid to face life any other way.

In order to successfully administer deliverance to someone, the afflicted person must first be taught that Jesus not only can set them free but that He wants to set them free. In addition, it is important to teach that person the benefits of being free. Then, that individual needs to be instructed on how to stay free. This all goes back to the book of Proverbs where we learn the importance of getting wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Once you have given the afflicted person a reason to believe, you've helped them overcome their fear of the unknown and you've given them some insight into how to stay free, they will not fight against their own cause (Mark 3:25).

Having said all of this, I have made a basic list of "how to overcome demonic oppression." This article is not an exhaustive commentary on this subject, but I do believe that it is a core outline for understanding, receiving and administering deliverance.

1) Make Jesus your Lord & Savior

2) Obedience to God & His holy Word

3) Forgiveness (forgive others & forgive yourself)

4) Repentance from sin (agree with God about what sin really is)

5) Elevate The Lord above drugs, alcohol, ungodly habits, ungodly friends, lusts of the flesh and worldly opinions

6) Make sure your eyes and ears don't indulge in evil perversions

7) Renounce ungodly traditions and beliefs (Proverbs 28:13)

8) Worship The Lord with your whole heart

9) Pray

10) Read your bible

11) Take thoughts captive and replace wrong thoughts with God's truth (2 Corinthians 10:5)

12) Seek to know the "root cause" that has granted the enemy access to your body, mind, will or emotions and then work on cleansing from the root issue

13) Purge your home and/or environment from satanic, pagan objects or anything that has sorcery, witchcraft, idolatry, perversion (sexual sin), temptation, or any sort of suspected evil identified with it (symbolic or otherwise)

14) Avoid placing yourself back into negative environments or condemning relationships that bring about self-hatred (if it is family, create boundaries)

15) Having done all... STAND... In faith and believe that The Lord will give you the victory! (Ephesians 6:13)
16) Avoid religion! Keep your spiritual armor on at all times. Do not allow religious comments to try and steal your victory.

Matthew 10:8 (KJV) - "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, CAST OUT DEVILS: freely ye have received, freely give."

Matthew 6:9-15 (KJV) - "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but DELIVER US FROM EVIL: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

Luke 11:14-28 (KJV) - "And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered. But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils. And others, tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth. If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges. But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it."

Acts 10:38 (KJV) - "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and HEALING ALL THAT WERE OPPRESSED OF THE DEVIL; for God was with him.

Psalm 34:4 (KJV) - "I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and DELIVERED ME from all my fears."

Mark 16:17-18 (KJV) - "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall THEY SHALL CAST OUT DEVILS; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover."

Mark 9:38-40 (KJV) - "And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one CASTING OUT DEVILS in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part."

Psalms 34:17 (KJV) - The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and DELIVERETH them out of all their troubles.

Psalms 40:13 (KJV) - Be pleased, O LORD, to DELIVER me: O LORD, make haste to help me.

Galatians 5:1 (KJV) - Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith CHRIST HATH MADE US FREE, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Psalm 91:14 (KJV) - Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I DELIVER him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

Psalms 91:15 (KJV) - He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will DELIVER him, and honour him.

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MORE HELPFUL INFORMATION CONCERNING DELIVERANCE:

Some ways that the enemy gets legal rights over us for administering torment...

1) Sin
2) Demonic Vows
3) Soul Ties
4) Childhood Rejection
5) Unforgiveness (of them self or of another)
6) Negative Spoken Words (curses by others or from self)
7) Generational Curse (ancestral sins and/or the effects of ancestral sins)
8) Points of Weakness
9) Cursed Objects
10) The Occult; False Religions; Ungodly Organizations
11) Traditions that are esteemed equal to - or more important than - the truth of God's Word
12) Drugs & Alcohol (drunkards, abusing street drugs and even certain prescription drugs that alter the mind)
13) Unnatural Sex (adultery, fornication, masturbation, with same sex partners, with animals, with children)
14) Traumatic Emotional Injury
15) Ungodly Social, Musical, Media Influence that has Taken Root in the Individuals Soul
16) Witchcraft; Sorcery (includes horoscopes, palm readings, seances, etc.)

Saturday, June 28, 2014

Speak Life!

Have you ever been hurt so deeply that death seemed more appealing than life?

Have you ever felt alone - even when you were around people?

Have you ever felt misunderstood, unappreciated, overlooked, insignificant, invisible or unimportant?

Have you ever been abandoned, abused mistreated, neglected, robbed or raped?

Do you ever feel that the nicer you are... the more people tend to take advantage of you?

Do you ever feel unworthy, unloved or unwanted?

Do the negative voices in your head constantly try to drown out the positive things in your life?

Do you have a secret fear?

Perhaps you've desperately sought after the tender affection of a family member whom you love and adore; but, their personal demons have kept them at a distance your entire life.

Did you miss having a bio-logical father or mother as part of your life?

Have alcohol or drugs ever threatened to destroy you or your family?

I have experienced or felt almost all of these things on a deep level at various times in my life. Without the Word of God to encourage me, the dysfunction and chaos of Satan's demise would have overwhelmed me many times over, for sure.

That is why I am so passionate about sharing God's love to the Strengthening of Families, the Encouraging of Faith and the Teaching of the Gospel of Christ. I know, first hand, how the spoken Word refreshes my soul and so I want to give... what I have been given!

Many times, God has used Christian television and Christian radio voices to minster to me in my weakness. When no one else saw my need, or felt compassion for my burdened heart, Christian media was the one - and only - human voice I could count on to encourage me with a strong Word from the Lord.

In Romans 10:17, God's Word says, "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." I believe that through my own personal struggles God has empowered me to minister to others; and, He has called me to do it in the same ways that "I" was ministered to. Through media, conferences and even one-to-one mentoring, I am thrilled to share the saving, healing, comforting and life-changing wisdom of God's Word.

Choose Life Radio is a vehicle by which the Lord uses my gift to speak life into those who are in need of "hearing" encouragement from the Lord - through a human voice! After-all, we are His hands, His feet, and His voice to the world.

Through my non-profit called Deborah Ross Ministries, I am now producing and airing two different radio programs that teach Biblical principles for navigating toward the VICTORY! Through Choose Life and Choose Life Today, the Lord is Empowering You to Live in the Blessing!

In my one minute daily show called Choose Life Today, you'll be encouraged as I take one scripture verse and then explain how that verse can be applied to your life... "TODAY." It's like a daily mini Bible study!

In my fifteen minute weekly show called Choose Life, I host a more personal talk show with anointed Bible teaching, touching interviews and great music.

The Lord has blessed Choose Life Radio tremendously by providing favor with major radio stations across the country. Plus, I've even been granted some television time for airing my daily mini Bible study devotions to a major US market! Still, the ongoing cost of production and air-time expansion is not cheap.

The gospel is free but the tools needed to reach those hurting are not.

Would YOU partner with me in sharing faith, hope and love to those who desperately need to hear a human voice speak of God's blessings? Like me, would you GIVE to someone else, the life-changing GOOD NEWS that you have been given?

You know, the enemy is hard at work through media, creating empty promises, crafty illusions and sinful lusts in the hearts and minds of humanity that lead to nowhere. We should be about our Father's business in taking back the precious real estate of all media outlets.

If you're thinking that there are already enough voices in Christian Media - think again! Some of your favorite media ministers are getting older. So, who will take their place? Not only that, every ministry that the Lord calls into action is just what "someone" needs.

Choose Life Radio has been called into action by the Lord! Will YOU stand with me and hold up my arms in the same way that Aaron and Hur held up the hands of Moses in Exodus 17:12? Your financial gift "is" Aaron and Hur to me!

Your partnership will enable God's love to reach into the silent cry of millions of people who need a touch from the Lord - today!

And, even though - together - we'll be able to reach millions, I believe the Lord would have Choose Life Radio on the air for just ONE! Because EVERYONE is special in the eyes of the Lord!

Friend, this is how God changes homes, communities, cities, states and even a nation... ONE LIFE AT A TIME!

If you really believe that Families are Worth Saving... Hearts are Worth Healing... and, Souls are Worth Setting Free, MAKE A DONATION TODAY to support a radio outreach that EMPOWERS THOSE HURTING TO LIVE IN THE BLESSING!

CLICK TO GIVE NOW

I believe your gift will help keep a family together, rescue someone from suicide, help someone break free from addiction, heal a broken heart, encourage someones faith, empower someone to break free from poverty and... your gift will save a soul from eternal separation from God.

Thank you for taking ACTION now!

CLICK HERE

TO LISTEN TO MY 15 MINUTE WEEKLY SHOWS

Choose Life with Deborah Ross.

Instructions for using the Media Share Player:

1) Click on the message that you want to listen to.

2) Click on the picture.

3) Click the arrow to listen.

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TO HEAR MY ONE MINUTE DAILY DEVOTIONS CLICK ON A MESSAGE BELOW....

Respect & Security

Need Healing?

A Wife is a Good Thing!

Now Faith Is

Worry Wart

Way, Truth, Life

Choose Life Radio is a donor-supported outreach ministry of Deborah Ross Ministries, Inc., and is only made possible by the financial giving of friends and partners like you.

We are a 501c(3) non-profit ministry and all contributions may be tax deductible as allowed by law.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Danger - Prescription Meds

I'd like to begin this article by saying that I do believe God has called many into the medical profession; however, I don't believe that the doctors and the nurses are the healers. These men and women of service are merely professionals who help us to get our bodies back in line so that the body can heal itself, as God intended. Like most of you, I praise God for skilled surgeons who work on our bodies like a mechanic, creating alignment and cleansing in preparation for God to perform a healing miracle for those who would otherwise be hopeless.

On the other hand, we would be ignorant to think that those in the medical profession are exempt from being duped by the devil. Satan is out to kill, steal and destroy and he will even use intelligence and good intentions to do it if given the chance. In today's world the love of money is certainly the root of much medical misinformation. Sadly, educated professionals who don't have an intimate relationship with the Lord can be easy targets for the devils tactics.

While many medical professionals are very concerning and cautious about their patients, some of these well-meaning workers simply have no idea of the havoc being reaped by their trust in what they've been taught is good. Other's may actually participate with the devil through the love of money, taking no thought of the destruction that certain pharmaceutical companies are causing with their marketing schemes.

Having said that, I'd like to share a deep concern that I have for patients, as well as those in the medical field. I've been ministering to a family for many days in desperate need of help for their loved one who has had mental side effects from prescription drugs.

Let this be a warning to you; family members have very little legal rights when it comes to the medical, mental health of a loved one who is of legal age. And once someone has an adverse reaction (mental side effects) from anxiety and depression medications, that patient is not in their right mind and cannot help themselves. It is a demonic cobweb of bondage where the medical profession actually participates in making things worse instead of better.

Way too many lives are being ruined by prescription drug abuse!

Grieving is a natural process that does not need to be suppressed by drugs.

Jay and I minister to people every week who are hooked on prescription meds. They never thought it could happen to them... BUT IT DID!

The most common prescription drug addiction that we see is the use of pain killers such as Hydrocodone. This drug is also found under street names such as Norco, Hydro and Vikes, the latter of which refers to Vicodin, a brand-name drug that contains Hydrocodone. Sadly, many non-suspected drug abusers are succumbing to the lure of this powerful drug. We have witnessed some "good people" rob pharmacies by gun-point, steal valuables from friends and abuse these drugs to the point of being non-functioning parents to their children. The results are families ripped apart, long rehab programs and even prison sentences, for some. Thus, many families are being ruined by their addicted loved ones reluctance to give up their pain meds.

Other prescription drugs that we have witnessed severe addiction to are those mind altering drugs such as (but, not limited to) Adderall. These types of addictions seem to be even more evil in that the addicted person can experience hallucinations and mania/pschosis which makes the medical profession tend to "up their dose" or prescribe a cocktail of mind altering drugs in an effort to "help them" overcome their mental malady. In addition to heart problems and stroke, another side effect of Adderall is the development of tourettes sydrome (tics & twitches) - which may or may not be permanent.

There are so many other prescription drugs that have serious side effects, INCLUDING DEATH; yet, Americans are swallowing these pills my the millions everyday. Satan is having a blast as many doctors play russian roulette with their patients pathway to health; all the while, the patient is looking to a pill and/or their doctor as some sort of God that can heal them. (See 2 Chronicles 16:12-13)

Be strong in The Lord and seek Him (not a pill) for comfort; and for goodness sake, avoid mind altering drugs. Read the warning labels! Remember, a person whose mind has been altered to a point of "strange behavior," hallucinations, highs & lows (manic depression), agitation, and so on... many times cannot see that they are sick! They tell their doctor (who sees them for 5 minutes) that they need more meds. Family & friends know there is something terribly wrong but they are helpless to intervene because the patient has privacy rights that actually work against them in these types of situations.

So, what should we do when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, sleeplessness and even severe pain? Diet and exercise, research ailments & cures, read labels and warnings, make pill taking a last resort, always seek the Lord, consider natural remedies first and limit taking prescription medications to a set amount of time. Many times, the answers to our condition could simply be our lifestyle, our diet, our attitude, our worship, our faith, our forgiveness or our willingness to seek the Lord.

Take time to heal. Take time to pray. Take time to read your Bible. And, certainly take time to educate yourself concerning the side effects of prescription medications. If the side effects of a prescribed drug are worse than your condition, STOP and pray. Ask the Lord which pathway to healing that He would have you to follow. He is your healer!

Lord save us from our destructions!

Psalm 107

O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

3 And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.

4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.

5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.

6 Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.

7 And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.

8 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men !

9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

10 Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron;

11 Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:

12 Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help.

13 Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses.

14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder.

15 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

16 For he hath broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder.

17 Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.

18 Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.

19 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses.

20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

21 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.

23 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;

24 These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.

25 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.

26 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.

27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.

28 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.

29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.

30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.

31 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

32 Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.

33 He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground;

34 A fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.

35 He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.

36 And there he maketh the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation;

37 And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of increase.

38 He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.

39 Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.

40 He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way.

41 Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock.

42 The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.

43 Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of theLord.

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2 Chronicles 16:12-13

12And Asa in the thirty and ninth year of his reign was diseased in his feet, until his disease was exceeding great: yet in his disease he sought not to the LORD, but to the physicians. 13And Asa slept with his fathers, and died in the one and fortieth year of his reign.

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