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Our Finest Hour I do not often speak on the GH15 posts about the coming shaking but rather mention it at regular intervals to keep us all praying. I also do so to ensure that you are not blindsided or disillusioned by what may come. Prayer is saving us from the total devastation that the shaking could have been and is ensuring that what may come is redemptive. America will be reborn into her purpose and destiny. I have no fear of being wrong about the difficult shaking I speak of because I hope I am. If that proves to be the case, I will rejoice. And I have said several times I am not prophetically predicting when, what, or how severe the shaking will be. Only that it is coming, and I feel it will be severe. I also believe it will be worldwide. The Timing Regarding timing, America’s enemies are having to roll the dice. They would need not be in a hurry if an election of Harris were guaranteed; she doesn’t worry them. Biden’s and Harris’ policies (and those controlling them behind the scenes) created the current unrest around the world, and also allowed the thousands (perhaps hundreds, but I believe thousands) of enemies that have poured into America through our “secure border.” Either these leaders don’t understand “peace through strength” or don’t want it. The opposite phrase, “peace through appeasement” actually has a formal name given it in the 1940s: “World War II.” Trump, on the other hand, understands peace through strength and is a fighter. His “America first” policies, intended to rebuild our nation, terrify our enemies and the globalists of the world. Frankly, I think America’s enemies still want to take Trump out - desperately - in hopes that someone more moderate would replace him. They underestimate the current unrest and determination of American patriots, however. The opposite would occur - these American patriots would not choose a moderate. If Trump were assassiated, they would try to resurrect Patton…or Teddy Roosevelt! I believe our enemies feel that a Trump victory is possible, which means they must act here in America and on the world stage within the next 6-month window: August through January. My opinion is that they will take action before the election, not only to harm us, but also in hopes of disrupting it. The Middle East Two or three weeks ago, I heard the Lord say that things were about to escalate in the Middle East. This is obviously occurring and will continue to escalate. Israel has decided they will not back off; whatever it takes, they intend to destroy the Iran-backed terrorists in the region that are trying to destroy them. Israel’s actions, however, will not stop Iran’s activities; they couldn’t care less about casualties to the Palestinians, the Lebanese, and other people in the region (including their own). The spirits controlling the Iranian leaders are of the same spiritual kingdom as those that controlled the Nazis, and this kingdom hates the Jewish people. It also hates America. It cares not how many innocent people perish, including from among those it uses. Satan loves to steal, kill, and destroy - period. So I do not expect them to back off. For the record, I, like Jesus, love Iranians, Palestinians, and all Muslims. I want to see them come to Christ and am elated by the incredible harvest taking place in Iran. I also have sown gifts to feed and clothe those in the Arab world, including ones who are not yet believers in Jesus, doing so through those I trust. God loves them all. Terrorists, however, do not honor life and must be stopped. I also love leftists, globalists, and those they use. I pray for their salvation and protection from evil, and that millions of them come to Christ in the coming revival. I believe this will occur. But I do not love their policies and I want them removed from power. I am not a pacifist, and I certainly don’t believe the nonsense that says believers—the church, God’s voice on the earth—should stay out of governmental and policy discussions. Nor that we should leave the teachings of Scripture, which form our worldview, out of the discussions. If you are a believer, you did not relinquish your right to be involved in the political process when you said yes to Jesus and a belief in the Bible. Speak up, vote for biblical values, and PRAY! Pray for safety. Pray for the protection of our leaders. Pray for them to receive wisdom. Pray for favor and success to those who espouse biblical ideals and truth. Pray for the end of satan’s control in the Middle East. Pray for Israel and the Arab people. And pray for a worldwide harvest! I close with two quotes from Founder Sam Adams, a believer and patriot extraordinaire: “The liberties of our country, the freedoms of our civil Constitution are worth defending at all hazards; it is our duty to defend them against all attacks. We have received them as a fair inheritance from our worthy ancestors. They purchased them for us with toil and danger and expense of treasure and blood. It will bring a mark of everlasting infamy on the present generation – enlightened as it is – if we should suffer them to be wrested from us by violence without a struggle, or to be cheated out of them by the artifices of designing men.” “The right to freedom is the gift of God Almighty....The rights of the Colonists as Christians may be best understood by reading, and carefully studying the institutes of the great Lawgiver and head of the Christian Church: which are to be found clearly written and promulgated in the New Testament.”(1) This is our Esther hour - we were born for this time, church. Rise up as Christ’s Ekklesia and declare His rule, authority, and will. As we do so, this will be our finest hour. Pray with me: Father, we are not in denial regarding the unrest now taking place here and around the world. We know America’s actions have, in part, caused it. But we also know You, who declare the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10), are always ahead of satan and his plans. He reacts, You predetermine and prepare. He attempts to destine; You predestine. He plans; You preplan. You decided long ago how You would prevail in this season, even using satan’s actions for Your superseding plans. We call those plans forth now. Kingdom - authority of King Jesus - come! Will of King Jesus, be done! Rebirth of America, come. Fire in America’s pulpits, come! Revival in America’s schools, come! Revival in our government, come! Harvest among the nations, come! Harvest in Asia, Australia, Central and South America, Europe, Africa, North America, and the Middle East, come! We exalt and praise You, Father. We love and worship Yeshua. And we love Holy Spirit. Let His wind now blow, and Your angel armies engage. All of this we ask and declare at the instruction of, and in the authority of, Christ. Amen. Our decree: We decree that the Kingdom of God cannot and will not be shaken. Click on the link below to watch the full video. ____________________________ https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/31693.Samuel_Adams

Repairing the “Dislocations” Last week I shared two posts on healing history; I feel I need to do one more. There is a fascinating word in the New Testament, katartizo, that relates to this. I’ve touched on it before, but it is timely for now. This word means “to align, adjust; to put a thing in its appropriate position.”(1) In Scripture, the word is used in the context of mending nets (see Matthew 4:21), repairing schisms or relational breaks (see 1 Corinthians 1:10), and even restoring broken lives (see Galatians 6:1). The word also describes the restoration of a dislocated joint or a broken bone. It would describe a chiropractor adjusting or realigning a joint. So, as you can see, the concept of this word involves proper alignment (including realignment, resulting in healing or restoration). Another interesting use of this word is to describe the proper connecting of time and seasons. Hebrews 11:3 says, in its more literal and accurate rendering, that the aligning (katartizo) of the “ages” (aions)(2) was decreed - in advance - by the Lord. This doesn’t mean that He planned and determined every event that occurs in the lives of individuals and nations - personal free will and human decision-making must be factored into this. It means that He decreed the flow of history, from age to age, and has determined the final outcome. He declared the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). For example, Jesus was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8). God saw in advance the break, the dislocation, that would come at the Fall. And He declared the realigning, the age and time of Christ and the Cross, reconnecting us to our Father. God also knew that other breaches would occur, causing the need for healings in the flow of history. Simply stated, history would need to be healed. Whether on a corporate level, such as wars, racial division, etc., or on an individual level in the sense of broken relationships, loss, etc., the fact is that history, the past, often needs to be healed. This corporate level of healing is what is referred to in Isaiah 58:12: “Those from among you will rebuild the ancient ruins; you will raise up the age-old foundations; and you will be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets in which to dwell” (NASB). (See also Isaiah 61:4.) This is also the concept spoken of in 2 Chronicles 7:14: “[If] My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (NASB). It is what is referred to in Ezekiel 22:30-31; we “stand in the gap” for a nation to see it forgiven and healed, rather than destroyed. God, the holy Chiropractor of history, can heal history’s dislocations. He katartiszos the aions, doing so through repentance, reconciliation, forgiveness, prayer, fasting, prophetic decrees, and other biblical actions. All of these are effective because of the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. America has come to a time when this is needed more than ever. There is a great breach between our nation and the Lord, as well as breaches between the races and generations. God can, and wants to, heal these torn places. The healing will not come through a president or a political party. They can, however, make decisions that enable the Lord to bless, and they will be used to rebuild/reform. But only God can heal and restore. This is why our prayers and declarations are so important - we are His methods, His voice, on earth. Having the right people in positions of governmental leadership also prevents and stops actions that further separate us from God. This is why elections, especially the upcoming election, are so important. America cannot survive four more years of shaking her fist in God’s face through unrighteous laws and evil, antichrist agendas. God does not demand perfection from our leaders, but He does need leaders who desire to honor Him and His ways. The church must “stand in the gap” for America now as never before. Prayer is critical. Get on board with all of your heart and strength. Repent of any national sins Holy Spirit brings to mind, and ask God to realign us. Ask for angels to war for us. And listen to Him, not the media. Take all strategies from Him, and keep your faith in Him, not in what you see. Pray with me: Father, we thank You for forming this nation as a beacon of light, a city on a hill for You. Our Founding Fathers and the leaders of each state wrote into their own constitutions an acknowledgment of and dependence upon You. Give us more leaders who diligently acknowledge reliance upon You and Your statutes, for only through our trust in You will we see America’s destiny fulfilled. Use our prayers, Lord. Fill the bowls of heaven with them as we cry out for the changes You desire and that line up with Your word. Father, You are conforming us to the image of Your Son. As a nation, You are adjusting and conforming us back into a people You can use for Your purpose and glory. Your apostle Paul, even at the end of his glorious ministry, was still acknowledging that he had not yet been perfected, had not yet attained. He knew there was still a need for growth. We, too, acknowledge this and invite You to adjust us. Heal our dislocations, both individually and corporately. Heal the breaches in our national history, and heal the broken places in our personal lives. We want to shift with You into the next season. Adjust the church. Make us willing to think differently, function differently, and plan differently. We desire to go from glory to glory, from faith to faith, and from outpouring to outpouring. May the coming season find us able to manifest Christ in ways we have not yet been able to. We want to make Him known. May He be seen clearly in our midst and in our lives. Through this, send revival to the earth - the greatest ever. And we ask for this in His name alone. Amen. Our decree: We declare that America is being transformed and realigned. We will shift with Holy Spirit into the next season aligned with heaven and our King, Jesus. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Spiro Zodhiates, Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible, New American Standard Bible (Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1977), p. 1846. James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 6031.

Tear It Up and Burn It! In 2001, a team of intercessors, led by Will Ford, Lou Engle, and me, conducted a prayer journey to the northeast part of our nation. Will is a black American; other blacks and Native Americans joined us, along with Caucasians. The purpose was to break demonic roots and strongholds over significant places, re-dig the wells of revival, and pray for awakening. At Holy Spirit’s orchestration, we took a large, old black kettle/pot used for cooking, laundering, and prayer by Will’s enslaved ancestors. Yes, prayer. Will’s ancestors were believers, but were forbidden by their “owners” to pray. They did so anyway, using the kettle to muffle their voices. Turning it upside down, they suspended it off the ground with rocks, laid face down, and prayed into the opening. This pot “caught” and muffled their voices. The kettle literally became their “bowl” of intercession, symbolizing the bowls containing our prayers in Revelation 5:8 and 8:3-5. [“When He had taken the book, the four living creatures, and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints” (Revelation 5:8). “Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand. Then the angel took the censer and filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it to the earth, and there followed peals of thunder and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake” (Revelation 8:3-5).] Holy Spirit led us to take this pot/kettle along with us and use it to symbolize these bowls of intercession in heaven. He confirmed this by giving me Zechariah 14:20. “On that day there will be inscribed on the bells of the horses, ‘Holy to the Lord.’ And the cooking pots in the Lord’s house will be like the bowls before the altar.” (NASB) On this journey, we repented at the locations of grievous national sins, prayed at places of America’s founding, and visited past wells of revival; over 30 places total. One of our first stops was a place on the James River, where some of the first slaves were brought into America. In God’s providence, the land was now a Christian Camp owned by a black family. We hadn’t planned to visit this location but as happened occasionally, the Lord added it to the agenda. And He had prepared us. Before the Kettle Tour began, one of my friends, Charles Doolittle, a black brother who accompanied us on the Kettle Tour, gave me a copy of a 300-year-old letter, written by a man named Willie Lynch, saying he thought it was significant. Charles said he saw things in his race today that were the stated goals of this letter. He felt as though the letter and its instructions had released a cycle of curses that continued still. At the very least, the letter was a blight on our society. After reading it, I had no doubt that it was an entry point for demonic curses and influences. Written to the slave owners in the James River, Virginia, area, it was titled “Let's Make A Slave.”(1) Lynch also gave a speech to the slave owners, which he titled “How to Control the Black Man for at Least 300 Years.” No white person I spoke to had heard of the letter, yet almost every black person had. Conceived in hell, this letter was the most insidious piece of literature I had ever seen. It spelled out how to steal male slaves’ dignity, rob them of their identity, pit one against another, and destroy the family unit by removing the father from the home. While praying before this prayer journey, I felt a strong witness from Holy Spirit that I was to take the letter with me. We began our time at this entry point of slaves by praying, “Lord, what do You want us to do here?” This was always our modus operandi on the tour. We did nothing until we knew we had the leading of the Lord. To my surprise, I clearly heard Holy Spirit say, “Get the Willie Lynch letter, and burn it in the kettle.” I felt chills go up and down my spine as I began to envision what the Lord was saying. There were four pages to this letter. We asked four whites in our group, who were descendants of slave owners, to participate. They each took a page and, one at a time repented to the Lord and asked forgiveness of our black brothers and sisters present. This is what is meant by “identificational” repentance. They had not committed the sins, but just as Daniel and Nehemiah (mentioned in yesterday’s post), they identified with the sins of their ancestors and repented of the sins. They then prayed that any resulting curses operating against America as a nation, and against American citizens in general, be broken. After doing this, each one handed their page to a black representative on the team. This person forgave them and their family, decreed that the curses were broken, tore the page into small fragments, and burned the pieces in the kettle. As Holy Spirit allowed us to feel His grief, we were very moved. There was much weeping as our hearts were broken in intercession. But more importantly, we could sense strongholds breaking in the spiritual realm. Finally, in this place of pain, the peace and presence of God began to hover. The black owners of the camp, whom we did not know before arriving, were deeply moved as well. They began the time observing us, wondering what we had come to do; they finished it by participating. One of the young ladies in the family had a dream of creating a memorial to the Lord’s faithfulness on the property. She wanted to build a barn to replace an older one - which was now torn down - that was used to house the first slaves. As she shared her dream, a spontaneous offering ensued. The kettle was emptied of its ashes and became an offering container. Wow! Can God ever write a script?! Pray with me: Father, You have made provision for the reversal of all our failures. The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin and unrighteousness. You can even reach back in time to cleanse sins from long ago, and “rebuild ancient ruins” (Isaiah 58:12). You answered the intercessory prayers of Nehemiah, Daniel, and others, cleansing Israel of past sins and restoring the nation. We, too, can be used to intercede for our nation’s past sins; many have done so. We have repented for the sin of slavery, for the broken covenants and mistreatment of the First Nations people, and believe much has been accomplished in the spiritual realm. We ask for the fruit of this to now manifest. We are aware that much work needs to be done in order to bring forth the practical fruit, but we believe this can occur. And we ask for it! And again today, we ask for those who oppose this to be removed from positions of influence. Entire organizations seek to keep old racial wounds from healing, just to gain and maintain political power. This is an abomination; they are despicable people. You called satan “the devil,” meaning the one who slanders, accuses, and divides. We bind this spirit of diabolos(2) and his hold on America in Jesus’ name. Father, release the redeeming power of Christ’s blood to break this hold. Heal our land from hatred, bitterness, and ancient wounds. All of this we ask in the authority of the Lord, Jesus. Our decree: We decree that Jesus defeated satan, the accuser, and that America will not remain under his divisive control. Click on the link below to watch the full video. ______________________________ http://nationalunitygovernment.org/content/willie-lynch-making-slave James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 1228.

We Are Healers of History Shouldn’t we stop and ask why, after decades, even centuries of trying, races and cultures still can’t get along with one another? Anywhere we go in the world, we’ll find members of different cultures who don’t get along. Blacks and Caucasians in America struggle. Tribes in Africa hate each other. Muslim factions kill one another. White Europeans often can’t get along with other white Europeans. British Canadians and French Canadians fuss and fume at each other. Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have been at odds for years. Many people hate the Jews. The tension and pain of the Great Crusades are still around centuries after they took place. And on it goes. Why does the pain linger in these relationships? Is it possible that in these cases, there is a spiritual poison flowing through history? Are there events in our history that become doors, gates, access points, and entrances for demonic influence to flow to a person or a group of people? If so, can it be stopped? Scripture does indeed teach that the future is ongoingly impacted by today’s actions: blessings, curses, iniquities, and strongholds are passed along generationally (see Exodus 34:7; Numbers 14:18; Deuteronomy 7:9-11). The Lord clearly states that the offspring of our bodies can be blessed or cursed depending on our obedience to the laws of God (see Deuteronomy 28:4,18). Daniel, in his day, knew that he and his fellow countrymen were suffering because his predecessors had “sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly and rebelled, even turning aside from [God’s] commandments and ordinances” (Daniel 9:5). Nehemiah knew this as well. He stated, “We have sinned against You; I and my father’s house have sinned” (Nehemiah 1:6). Though both Daniel and Nehemiah identified with the sins of their forefathers and mothers, repenting in the first person, it was their predecessors who had actually rebelled against God and His laws. Isaiah 24:5-6 tells us that our sins pollute the earth and cause curses that devour. Numbers 35:33 says that the shedding of innocent blood defiles the land. Hebrews 12:15, in the New Testament, says that a root of bitterness causes trouble and defiles many. Indeed! Though we don’t often make the connection, we live with the fruit. Yes, there are most certainly doors in history that have opened the way for strongholds and pain to flow from generation to generation. Someone must close them! However, when we try to deal with these roots and their fruit by natural means - legislation, dialogue, material retribution, laws, etc., we are only dealing with symptoms. We are focusing on the fruit, never getting to the root. Although we trim the tree, there is always the inevitable new growth of foliage and fruit. Somewhere along history’s path, we must deal with the root, closing the door and stopping the flow of self-perpetuating pain and destruction. We must treat the cause. When that door is closed, the societal virus that causes social disease and death can no longer be passed on. Ephesians 4:27 tells us to give no place or opportunity to the devil. The word “devil” comes from the Greek word diabolos, which means “one who falsely accuses and divides people without any reason; an accuser or slanderer.”(1) It is the term used to describe satan in Revelation 12:9-10, where he is also called “the accuser of our brethren.” The word “opportunity” in Ephesians 4:27 (“place,” in the King James Version) is the Greek word topos.(2) You can easily see the English words “topo” and “topography” in this word, and they do originate from it. Literally it is a place, location, or piece of land. Figuratively, it also means an opportunity, as this verse indicates. God is telling us that there is a devil, an “accuser who divides,” who is always looking for an “opportunity, a piece of ground” he can take ownership of in order to steal, kill, and destroy those who live there. Simply stated, our sins give satan legal grounds, a piece of turf from which he can accuse and divide. Until this legal ground is taken away from him through repentance and forgiveness, the pain and division will continue. God heals history through the same instruments that dislocate it—people. When we confess the sins of past generations—as Nehemiah, Daniel, and others did—cleansing occurs and history’s dislocations are healed. Curses are broken and blessings return. Health, instead of pain, can then begin to flow through that historical joint. These prayers of repentance play a part in healing history’s breaches because they are offered on the basis of the shed blood of Christ. History cannot be forgotten, but it can be healed. Romans 8:28 is the familiar passage that says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” The personal application of this verse, of course, is that God makes failures and successes work together for good to those who love Him and align with His purposes. But this application can be broadened from an individual to a corporate or national level, as well. The words “work together” come from the Greek word sunergeo,(3) from which we get our English word “synergy”! This means that all of our history, both the bad and the good, can be infused with God's amazing wisdom, purpose, and power until only good remains. Like ingredients in a cake, some of which wouldn’t taste good by themselves, the bad can be mixed with God’s purposes until they become synergistically blended into inexplicable good. A good, by the way, that God makes work for His eternal and benevolent purposes. Through a remnant of people who will repent for the past, pray for and with humiity prefer one another, God can heal a nation. He can blend the tragedies with the triumphs, and propel a country forward into His original plans and purposes. Through repentance and healing, we can guarantee our destiny. Pray with me: Father, You said, “Those from among you will rebuild the ancient ruins; You will raise up the age-old foundations; And you will be called the repairer of the breach, The restorer of the streets in which to dwell” (Isaiah 58:12 NASB). We are called to heal history’s breaches through our repentance and prayers. You are well able to heal wounds and breaches of the past, even those that exist between races of people. Government cannot do this, but You can. We are Your methods. Increase revelation to the church, Your Ekklesia on earth, of our calling to be healers of history. Raise up many Daniels, Nehemiahs, who will repent and intercede on behalf of nations and races. Give us leaders who don’t exploit and divide, but heal and unify. We know those who sow discord among brethren are an abomination to You (Proverbs 6:19); remove them from their positions, cancel the influence of those who seek to divide us. In the coming outpouring of Your Spirit, bring together Black Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, Jewish Americans and Caucasian Americans. Make us the melting pot YOU had in mind for this nation. Unite us as one in the bond of love. This will require miraculous intervention, but You are a God who works miracles. We ask for this. All of this we ask in the authority of Christ Himself. Amen Our decree: We decree that we are healers of history! Click on the link below to watch the full video. __________________________________________ James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 1228. Ibid., ref. no. 5117. Ibid., ref. no. 4903.

Jim Hodges is a spiritual father to many, including Ceci and me. His wisdom and knowledge are extremely valuable; his teachings have shaped my spiritual life. I’m borrowing a “meaty” teaching from him for today’s post. His perspective is helpful during this challenging time. (There are portions included in the written version of today’s post that I will not read due to time restraints.) Jim’s title: Present Perspectives and Prayer Points for 2024 We live in a time of global chaos, economic disasters, oppression from totalitarian tyrannies, civil government failures through dysfunctional democracies, and large numbers of sleepy church members. We must focus on King Jesus and receive a fresh outpouring and empowering of Holy Spirit in order to advance the will of God in the earth, and the agenda of the Kingdom of God in history! The Ekklesia must refocus, reengage, and redeploy as the army of God. The following four perspectives will help us in this. 1. We must see the cultural war and political war as rooted in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6 and 2 Corinthians 10:3-6). Church father, Augustine, taught that the church was to be spiritually militant. Yes, we are the family of Father God but we’re also the army of God. Ephesians 1 speaks of us as the body of Christ; Ephesians 2 refers to us as the temple of the Spirit; Ephesians 5 calls us the bride of Christ; all of these prepare and lead us into functioning as the army of God in chapter 6. The New Testament word for “war” is strateuomai,(1) from stratia(2) (see 2 Corinthians 10:3-4). From it comes our English word “strategy.” You don’t win a war without strategy and tactics! With all that is going on in the cultural and political wars, the people of God are, at times, out-maneuvered by the enemies of the gospel. Jesus said: “The sons of this age are wiser than the sons of light in dealing with their own” (Luke 16:8). 2. The followers of King Jesus have two citizenships: heavenly and earthly. Philippians 3:20 tells us: “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Too many Christians believe they have only one citizenship; too few steward two citizenships. The word for citizenship is politeuma,(3) from the root word polis,(4) which gives us our words “city,” “colony,” and yes, “politics.” It is also related to the words “commonwealth” and “metropolis.” In the Passion Bible, this verse reads: “We are a colony of heaven on earth.” Paul was writing this epistle from a prison cell in Rome. He was writing TO a colony WITHIN a colony. (This Greek city of Philippi was named after Phillip of Macedon, who was the father of Alexander the Great. But the city was now a colony of the Roman Empire.) In their book Jesus And The Powers, N.T. Wright and Michael Bird share the following: “We are to pray that it will be on earth as it is in heaven, to colonize earth with the life of heaven, to bear witness by declaring the gospel truth to all who listen, and speak truth to political powers even when they refuse to listen!”(5) Church history informs us that there were times when the church submited to civil rulers, and there were times when they resisted them. Civil disobedience occurred when the civil ruler was governing unjustly. Romans 13 tells us those in authority are to administer justice and avenge evil. There are many varieties of tyranny, or unjust government, that need to be resisted! Christian faith is an allegiance to King Jesus, and that allegiance sometimes requires the church to engage in active defiance of tyranny, cruelty, corruption, and despotism! (This was illustrated in Hitler and nazism in the 1930s. Eric Metaxes’ book Letter to the American Church is a must-read. He compares the 1930s in Germany with America now. Only a remnant of the church in Germany resisted Hitler and Nazism. That was the Confessing Church led by Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Martin Niemöller.) Paul stewarded both of his citizenships! He appealed to his Roman citizenship in order to stand before Caesar in Rome where he preached to him and his palace guards in the capital of the empire. And it bore fruit! In Philippians 4:22 Paul said, “All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.” Some scholars say this included the emperor’s personal security force, the Praetorian Guard, and that they were saved through Paul’s preaching. Bottom line: When necessary, we resist tyranny by praying and voting! Currently, in our nation, only half of the Christians are registered to vote. Only half of those actually vote! This is a recipe for the advancement of darkness and evil. 3. The people of God in history lived and functioned in the shadow of empires. God approves of nations, not empires. Empires were birthed at the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11). A contemporary synonym for Babel is Globalism! As you know, Globalism opposes nationhood. Why? Because Psalm 2 and Matthew 28 declare that the Lord Jesus Christ inherits the nations (see Psalm 2:8-9). Genesis 10 records the birth of nations or nationhood - 70 in number. “Nations” is the Hebrew word goyim,(6) which is also the word for “Gentiles.” The Greek word for nation/s is ethnos(7) which basically means “race” or “ethnicity.” Jesus sent out the 70 beyond the borders of Israel where there were Gentiles, i.e., nations! Old Testament followers of God lived in the shadow of pagan empires. The descendants of Abraham in Moses’ day lived under the shadow of the Egyptian Empire. After that, according to Daniel 2, the following empires cast their shadows over the people of God: Babylon, Medo-Persia (modern-day Iran), Greece, and the Roman Empire. They were presented as a four metal statue with these symbols: gold, silver, bronze, clay and iron together. (Read Daniel 2:32-35 and 44-45). A Fifth Kingdom was also set up on the earth, the Kingdom of God. This Kingdom doesn’t wait until the Second Coming of Christ. It happened in history under the shadow of the Roman Empire. (I have a thought that it was these four empires the devil offered Jesus in the temptation in the wilderness) [see Matthew 4:8-10]. The New Testament people of God lived and ministered in the shadow of the Roman Empire. The Romans were polytheists worshipping many gods, including some planets like Mars, Neptune, and Jupiter. However, their main worship was directed to the ruling Caesar, i.e., emperor worship. In Ephesus there was a statue of Caesar Augustus. On it were these words: “There is no other name whereby anyone can be saved.” Caesar was their savior! This “empire spirit” partnered with the “religious spirit” and crucified Christ. Then it persecuted the church. In our day, it boils down to the same conflict: the battle for the earth between the sons of light and the sons of darkness, the Ekklesia and the Empire, Globalism and Nationhood. The World Economic Forum is a gathering of these globalists, with their open borders policies, led by the likes of Klaus Schwab, George Soros, Bill Gates, and others. This battle hangs in the balance while nations make up their minds! But they don’t have to decide for Globalism or an arrogantly proud Nationalism! They can choose Genesis 12, which is the covenant of Abraham by which all the nations are promised blessing by Abraham’s seed, King Jesus! (See Revelation 7:9-11) 4. The economy of the sons and daughters of light will prosper beyond the economies of the sons and daughters of darkness. Scriptural history is replete with examples of economic wealth being transferred from the wicked to the righteous! Examples: Transfer of the wealth of the Egyptians to the Israelites at the Exodus! (Exodus 12:35-36) Psalm 37 refers to the righteous inheriting the land while the wicked are disinherited. Pagan kings came to Zion and gave Kings David and Soloman riches, treasures, etc. (1 Kings 4-7) Jesus said the meek inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). According to Psalm 2, Jesus inherits the nations, and we, the church, are co-heirs with Him (Romans 8:17). Conclusion Our Founding Fathers covenanted with the Lord God, and the contemporary Ekklesia army is warring for the restoration of our nation through intercession, decrees, and stewardship of our citizenships in heaven and earth. Because of this, we shall be a sheep nation when Jesus returns! Pray with me: Father, thank You for fathers and mothers like Jim and Jean Hodges. They have set the bar high and given us strong and tall shoulders on which to stand. We pray for blessings on them and the other pioneer leaders who have shown us the way forward. Thank You for reminding us that the cultural and political wars of today are rooted in a spiritual war. Please give us the strategies and tactics needed to win this war. Remind us in the church, that we have two citizenships, that of our earthly nation and of heaven, and that we possess responsibilities in both. Awaken members of the church to our roles and responsibilities. And help us to war with greater wisdom against the globalist agendas of our day. Give us leaders that understand this, and are determined to oppose it. We know that You love all the nations of the earth, and oppose the empire spirit of control. Help us to defeat the globalists of our day. In Christ’s authority, we ask these things. Amen. Our decree: We decree that as citizens of God’s Kingdom, we will fulfill our responsibilities and represent our King. Today’s post was contributed by my spiritual dad, Jim Hodges. You can find out more about Jim at JimHodgesMinistries.com. Click on the link below to watch the full video. ______________________________ James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 4754. Ibid., ref. no. 4756. Ibid., ref. no. 4175. Ibid., ref. no. 4172. N.T. Wright and Michael Bird, Jesus and the Powers (Nashville, TN: Zondervan Publishing), ch 8. Strongs Concordance, ref. no. 1471. Ibid., ref. no. 1484.

“A Price We Will Not Pay” Ronald Reagan has long been a favorite of many American patriots. I have quoted him often. His profound wisdom, framed with a simple eloquence the common man could understand, called to something deep in the genes of freedom-loving Americans. I share some of his quotes with you today, not because I am a Reagan fan, which obviously I am, but because they are so apropos for today. Though he spoke these words 60 years ago, it is not too late to heed his warnings and apply his wisdom. These quotes are chosen from his speech at the 1964 Republican Convention, titled, “A Time For Choosing.” Most of it was actually from a speech he gave throughout the country, not as a politician - he wasn’t yet in government - but as a prominent citizen who loved and cared for America. He simply added a few things for Barry Goldwater and the convention. You can read the entire speech here. Regarding self-governance versus totalitarianism and government control, Reagan said: “Not too long ago, two friends of mine were talking to a Cuban refugee, a businessman who had escaped from Castro, and in the midst of his story, one of my friends turned to the other and said, ‘We don’t know how lucky we are.’ And the Cuban stopped and said, ‘How lucky you are? I had someplace to escape to.’ And in that sentence he told us the entire story. If we lose freedom here, there’s no place to escape. This is the last stand on earth. “And this idea that government is beholden to the people, that it has no other source of power except the sovereign people, is still the newest and the most unique idea in all the long history of man’s relation to man. “This is the issue of this election: whether we believe in our capacity for self-government or whether we abandon the American revolution and confess that a little intellectual elite in a far-distant capitol can plan our lives for us better than we can plan them ourselves. “You and I are told increasingly we have to choose between a left or right. Well, I’d like to suggest there is no such thing as a left or right. There’s only an up or down - [up] man’s old-aged dream, the ultimate in individual freedom consistent with law and order, or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism. And regardless of their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who would trade our freedom for security have embarked on this downward course. “…Well, I, for one, resent it when a representative of the people refers to you and me, the free men and women of this country, as ‘the masses.’ This is a term we haven’t applied to ourselves in America. But beyond that, ‘the full power of centralized government,’ this was the very thing the Founding Fathers sought to minimize. They knew that governments don’t control things. A government can’t control the economy without controlling people. And they know when a government sets out to do that, it must use force and coercion to achieve its purpose. They also knew, those Founding Fathers, that outside of its legitimate functions, government does nothing as well or as economically as the private sector of the economy.” Reagan’s Wit Amen! Reagan’s wit and humor also came through in the speech. At one point, he said, “Well, the trouble with our liberal friends is not that they’re ignorant; it’s just that they know so much that isn’t so.” On another matter he stated: “No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. So governments’ programs, once launched, never disappear. “Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we’ll ever see on earth.” Hilarious! And speaking on choosing peace at the cost of surrendering to tyranny, Reagan said: “You and I know and do not believe that life is so dear and peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery. [A reference to Patrick Henry’s famous speech] If nothing in life is worth dying for, when did this begin - just in the face of this enemy? Or should Moses have told the children of Israel to live in slavery under the pharaohs? Should Christ have refused the Cross? Should the patriots at Concord Bridge have thrown down their guns and refused to fire the shot heard ‘round the world? The martyrs of history were not fools, and our honored dead who gave their lives to stop the advance of the Nazis didn’t die in vain. Where, then, is the road to peace? Well it’s a simple answer after all. “You and I have the courage to say to our enemies, ‘There is a price we will not pay.’ “‘There is a point beyond which they must not advance.’ And this - this is the meaning in the phrase of Barry Goldwater’s ‘peace through strength.’ Winston Churchill said, ‘The destiny of man is not measured by material computations. When great forces are on the move in the world, we learn we’re spirits - not animals.’ And he said, ‘There's something going on in time and space, and beyond time and space, which, whether we like it or not, spells duty.’ “You and I have a rendezvous with destiny. “We’ll preserve for our children this, the last best hope of man on earth, or we’ll sentence them to take the last step into a thousand years of darkness.” So profound. Many are fighting for these freedoms on the government mountain; we must join them by fighting on our knees. Our responsibility is as great or greater than theirs, for we know America was founded to spread the gospel of God’s Kingdom to the ends of the earth, and it is for this we fight. We must pray for and support our godly government leaders, and according to 1 Timothy 2:1-3, do so “first” (“First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.”) Though we have lost much ground, we are winning the battle to reclaim and preserve our destiny and freedoms, and to ensure God’s coming worldwide harvest IN OUR GENERATION. We will persevere in agreeing with and decreeing Christ’s words in Matthew 6:10, “Thy Kingdom, come! Will of God, be!” No religious or political spirit will stop us from doing so. Pray with me: Father, Yeshua meant what He said when He told us to command these things. Religion can say otherwise, the political spirit and its political correctness can demand our silence and submission, but we have the Book. It is our flawless manual, and the words of Jesus are as alive and powerful as they were when He uttered them. He needs no correction, and He certainly won’t be muzzled. We honor them again today, “planting the heavens,” seeding the atmosphere with them (Isaiah 51:16 NKJV). We decree over America, “Kingdom authority of Jesus, come!” Come in love; come, drawing hearts to You, not forcing them to do so. Your love will win them, Your blood will cleanse them, Your truth will enlighten and free them. “Your will, which is for the accomplishment of all these things, be done!” Heal, free, liberate, awaken, and release personal destinies. Free from that which steals, kills, and destroys. Your plan is abundant life (John 10:10); Your purposes are good, not evil, and they are hope-filled (Jeremiah 29:11). We command the coming forth of these things in our nation. We command them over our upcoming elections, over our government, our schools, and yes, over our homes and streets. We command them over our churches and businesses, our military and media. Come with radical love and explosive power. All of this we pray and decree in the authority of Yeshua, Your only begotten Son, our Savior, King over all the earth, and ruler over the nations. Amen. Our decree: We decree Christ’s Kingdom is ever-increasing and is without end! You may read President Reagan’s speech in its entirety here. Click on the link below to watch the full video.

After a challenging two weeks, I’m sure you could use some good news. Words from the Lord like the following, released by my brother, Tim, remind us of the outcome of our battle. They keep our eyes focused on the prize. Be encouraged by Tim’s words today. Our title: Power Eruptions I believe we have now entered into the most supernatural era Holy Spirit has ever brought to pass, and the Ekklesia has been prepared to function in her greatest authority ever to accomplish the Godhead’s plans. We are in a season pregnant with the promises of God, and it is time to birth those promises through prayers and decrees of faith. The water has broken on hundreds of prophetic promises, and it is time to push. I want to share with you a prophetic word and vision Holy Spirit is highlighting to me during this time. I feel compelled to have the Ekklesia declare ‘Now Be’ to the following words: February 15, 2021: “The new era I have planned will now be established in supernatural displays of My dunamis.(1) Holy Spirit's power will be activated on the earth in greater measure and with sudden surges of His mightiness. My people will experience and live in sudden breakthroughs. Long-standing battles will end in sudden victory. I have planned the release of millions of sudden personal victories for My remnant to validate the new, greater glory, apostolic age. I will confirm it with signs, wonders, and miracles. Personal breakthroughs for My faithful warriors will surge and deliver them. I will validate the expansion of My Kingdom's Ekklesia on the earth with displays of My right hand of power, enabling it to see victories over opposition from both natural and spiritual governments. Supernatural reversals are planned and will activate, resulting in God-victories for My Ekklesia. My Ekklesia will report that God-victories are happening everywhere. This will be clear, visible, and irrefutable validation. I will confirm what I say. Sudden surprise attacks are planned against the enemies of My people and My church. Angel armies I command have set traps I have approved. The traps will be sprung in the spirit realm and affect the natural realm. Startled cries will come from demonic thrones. Cries of anguish will rise from fortified positions of demons. They are not fortified enough, says the Lord. Their resistance to Me will suddenly implode as My power explodes. My angels will work the explosions through My Ekklesia’s decrees of governance. The Lord of Hosts decrees that you are moving into the days of My power, power that will validate who I am and who My sons and daughters are. This power will validate the church I am building. You’re moving into a new era of Pentecost that will validate the second apostolic age. I have planned for its mighty surge, not from an upper room in Jerusalem this time, but rather from thousands of upper rooms in the nations of the world. This surge will accelerate the power principles of My New Testament Church, the power ministry of My heirs, and the powerful assistance of My angel armies. I have sent angel army divisions to assist the Holy Spirit in validating the Kingdom of God on the earth, drawing multitudes in the valley of decision to Me. These armies are now on the front lines, says the Lord. My heirs will raise My rod of authority in nations, disciple them through Holy Spirit’s wisdom, power, and strategies. Through an unprecedented release of Heaven's angels on the earth to assist My heirs, I will activate breakthrough angels, government angels, angels of alignment, special forces angels, and seraphim. In unseen ways, I have moved multiple divisions of angel armies into all nations and states where My Ekklesia is rooted. It is time for the unseen to be seen, for the surprise, and for the suddenlies to erupt. It's time for the volcanic hubs of My Ekklesia to erupt in great power and change Earth’s atmosphere. Yes, says the Lord, what has been boiling underground, internal fires deep within My people, will erupt. My Ekklesia will say, “There has been a Kingdom of God eruption. The river of God flows throughout the earth.” My glory has been churning and burning deep inside of My glorious Ekklesia. It will now erupt through My Kingdom’s Ekklesias like volcanoes, penetrating and changing the earth. As My fire and evident presence hover over them, validating the words of Messiah, their breaker, I will further build My Ekklesia, and hell's authority will not overcome them. Hell’s government will not prevail. For you have come to a fullness of time that I have planned, and the Lord of hosts decrees I will shift your nation back into covenant alignment. I will shift nations back into covenant alignment. You will see the revival fires of a new Pentecost worldwide, and the harvest of souls I’ve been planning.” A Recurring Vision Two weeks prior to this prophetic word, I began receiving a recurring vision in which I saw volcanoes erupting throughout the earth. I saw them in nations where the Ekklesia was functioning as the true church Jesus described in Matthew 16:18. The volcanoes in this vision were not dormant; they were alive, with ash spewing and lava flowing. A volcanic eruption can actually alter the conditions of the earth. In this vision, though these volcanoes were spiritual, not natural, they affected the entire natural realm of the earth, changing its atmosphere. As I prayed into this vision and asked Holy Spirit for clarity, I heard Him say these words, “These are volcano-like Ekklesia hubs; they will erupt in great power, changing cultural and governmental climates on earth in sudden and real ways. They will erupt in great demonstrations of Holy Spirit’s power. I will validate their decrees. I have planned for them to prevail mightily.” I shared this vision on a Sunday morning, and the very next day, Mount Etna, a volcano in Italy, erupted. I knew it was a sign, a validation of what God was saying. Mount Etna erupted with a fury that hadn’t been seen in decades. Spectacular displays of ash billowed into the atmosphere that could actually be seen by orbiting satellites. Some of the glowing lava shot 3/4 mile into the air. I knew this was not a coincidence.(2) We are in an incredibly holy, prophetic moment. I picture it as the day of Joshua’s address before crossing the Jordan into the promised land. He told a multitude of people, who had waited 40 years, that it was now time to move, to act—and they did. It’s time for us to align our words with God and declare them with our authority in Jesus’ name. Let’s pray with Tim: Heavenly Father, we thank You for what You have promised and are now bringing to pass. Holy Spirit, release Your explosive power on the earth. May visible signs of dunamis now be seen. We ask You for miracles, sudden miracles, breaking out around the world. Let there be sudden, notable breakthroughs. We declare that an end to longstanding battles is coming. Sudden victories, erupt! Signs, wonders, miracles, and healings, erupt! Lord, validate with dunamis wonders and signs in the the heavens. We decree that reversals are coming in natural governments that promote evil. Evil laws, reverse! Lies promoted as truth, be reversed and exposed! We decree that God-reversals are activating. We declare that God-victories are happening everywhere. We declare that surprise attacks are coming against the enemies of God’s Kingdom. Lord, release an accelerated apostolic age across the nations. We align with You, King Jesus. We decree that the great harvest planned will be reaped, that new converts and prodigals will come! We declare that our God is mighty to save. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Our decree: We decree that there will now be a Kingdom eruption in Ekklesias around the world, and Holy Spirit’s power will bring great change. ‘Now, Be.’ Click on the link below to watch the full video. Today’s post was contributed by my brother, Tim. You can learn more about him at TimSheets.org. ________________________________________ James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 1411. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9291659/Etna-erupts-fury-rarely-seen-decades-Volcano-continues-recent-spectacular-displays.html

Turbulent Times Are Here One of the most challenging aspects of being a watchman for our nation at this time is balancing warnings with encouragement and hope. Too much emphasis on warning and it can demoralize, causing despair and eroding faith. Too much of “it’s all gonna be okay” can lead to complacency. I never want anyone to become fearful because of my posts. And I completely believe what I released yesterday - God has begun a season of “suddenlies” through which He intends to save our nation. I also know that His salvation will, in part, result from a difficult shaking that has begun and will intensify. The shaking is not because of God’s anger, but is a reaping. This type of reaping is often required in order to awaken people to their condition and need. The prodigal son is a clear example. It is also true that satan, according to Daniel 7:25, tries to alter times and laws (God’s declared plans). He does so not by overpowering God, but by impacting, wearing down and immobilizing “the saints.” We are God’s methods. If satan can influence us, he can alter some of God’s desired times and plans - not God’s will, but His plans. Jesus referenced this in Luke 19:41-44: “When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it, saying, ‘If you had known on this day, even you, the conditions for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes. For the days will come upon you when your enemies will put up a barricade against you, and surround you and hem you in on every side, and they will level you to the ground, and  throw down your children within you, and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.’” (Luke 19:41-44 NASB) The destruction of Jerusalem wasn’t God’s will, but the people, by their choices, rejected His will. Satan is an opportunist. He looks for opportunities and open doors created by people’s decisions and actions. Luke also told us that when satan is trying to steal God’s seeds, which are His words, he does so at the most “opportune times” (kairos).(1)“Those on the rocky soil are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and yet these do not have a firm root; they believe for a while, and in a time [kairos] of temptation they fall away” (Luke 8:13 NASB). Three times in Acts, this word (kairos) is used to describe satan’s attacks: Acts 8:1, 12:1, and 19:23. He waits for the best time, the most opportune time, to launch his attacks, stealing, killing, and destroying (John 10:10). This verse in John’s gospel contrasts God’s plans (abundant life) and satan’s plans. We must cooperate with God in faith, obedience, prayer, etc., to receive His abundant life, while also being alert to satan’s schemes so he will not be able to take advantage of us (2 Corinthians 2:11). One of the meanings of the word “advantage” in this verse is “to get the bigger portion” of something.(2) This is why we are told to “be on the alert” and “pray at all kairos times” of attack (Ephesians 6:18). I labor this point somewhat because of erroneous teachings declaring that God’s sovereignty means He is in control of everything that happens to us. Not true—we have a vote! Obviously, what God has declared as His end results on earth in Revelation and elsewhere will be accomplished. But just as with Israel in the Old Testament and Jerusalem in Christ’s day, we play a role in receiving His will and promises for us personally. That role includes prayer and spiritual warfare (binding and resisting satan). Now, my primary reason for today’s post: America is at one of the most vulnerable times (kairos) in her history. Bullies prey on the weak, and America is now weak. The cyber threat has never been greater; because of Biden’s and Harris’ border policies, terrorists and enemy soldiers are now here - do not doubt this; and our enemies - China, Russia, Iran, and others - have never felt more emboldened. Their mocking spy balloons,(3) fighter jet flybys(4) while Biden hands the torch to Harris, and graffiti stating “Hamas is coming here”(5) are simply our enemies’ ways of saying “you can’t stop us.” China owns land in America next to 19 U.S. military bases!(6) We now have a cognitively impaired, lame-duck President for the next six months, which our enemies are very aware of. If Trump is elected, he won’t stand for their attacks, which they also know. All this and more means the next six months are a very opportune time (kairos) for our enemies to hurt us. I DO NOT WANT TO ALARM YOU. I WANT YOU TO PERSEVERE IN YOUR PRAYERS. Fervently. Faithfully. God has said, “America shall be saved.” He has also said a major shaking is coming. Pray for mercy in the shaking; ask for cleansing and salvation for our nation and worldwide revival. We do not have to miss the time of our visitation, regardless of what satan attempts. We will not allow him to alter our time and steal our promise. I am humbled to be part of the great prayer army God has assembled worldwide. I am proud of the great company of intercessors carrying His heart and birthing His desires. And I tell you without fear of being wrong: this can be our finest hour! Yes, attacks are coming, violence will increase, bad people here and around the world will flex their muscles, and demonic forces are about to make some moves. But this will all be used by God to awaken people. They will cry out, and He will answer. His glorious Ekklesia will rise in authority and power, revealing Him and His majestic Son. Yes, turbulent times are here and coming. But also know that God will arise and His enemies will be scattered. Pray with me: “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abounding in mercy.” (Psalm 103:8) “Light shines in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious, compassionate, and righteous.” (Psalm 112:4) “The Lord is gracious and compassionate; Slow to anger and great in mercy.” (Psalm 145:8) Father, thank You for being merciful and gracious. Thank You for Your light which shines in the darkness. We ask for these traits to manifest in the coming shaking. We declare that mercy is ours through Christ, and that His light will overcome darkness, which it always does. Shake down evil strongholds, systems, laws and plans. Rise up and scatter Your enemies. Terrify and rout the wicked in the day of Your power. Reestablish America in covenant with You. Bring salvation to those who are still able to turn. We ask that You bring Your Kingdom rule to America again. We pray for these things in Christ’s authority. Amen Our decree: We decree that we, the Ekklesia, will stand in the day of battle. Click on the link below to watch the full video. ____________________________________________ James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 2540. Ibid., ref. no. 4122. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/investigations/us-intelligence-officials-determined-chinese-spy-balloon-used-us-inter-rcna131150 https://apnews.com/article/china-russia-us-military-planes-norad-alaska-4994b489e75ae636b4a4cd5bb40f91ac https://nypost.com/2024/07/25/us-news/liberty-bell-replica-defaced-with-pro-hamas-symbols-by-anti-israel-protesters/ and https://www.foxnews.com/politics/woke-political-college-leaders-set-stage-pro-hamas-dc-protest-lawmaker https://nypost.com/2024/06/20/us-news/chinese-owned-farmland-next-to-19-us-military-bases/

Sieges Are Becoming “Suddenlies” “When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly, a noise like a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And tongues that looked like fire appeared to them, distributing themselves, and a tongue rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with different tongues, as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out.” ( Acts 2:1-4 NASB) I have heard quite a few sermons over the years about God’s “suddenlies.” This, of course, is not a proper word; the correct wording would be “sudden occurrences.” But that wouldn’t work as well for the sermons. The above passage describing Holy Spirit’s sudden outpouring on the day of Pentecost is often given as an example. These sudden God-happenings are wonderful when they occur unless, of course, they are judgments of some sort, as occurred at Sodom (Genesis 19). Paul’s Damascus Road conversion was a “suddenly” (Acts 9), as was Holy Spirit being poured out on the Gentiles (Acts 10). We could mention others from scripture. A few years back, however, I was surprised when Holy Spirit, playing on this coined word used in our sermonizing, said, “Suddenlies are not actually suddenlies.” (He does things like this to me!) After getting my attention and allowing me a few moments to untangle my brain, Holy Spirit began unpacking His statement. The dots were already there; He connected them. When we experience sudden breakthroughs or actions of God which seem sudden - and the acts themselves can indeed take place suddenly - there have typically been periods of faith-filled prayer and perseverance that caused them. As oxymoronic as it seems, ‘suddenlies’ are, indeed, caused by sieges. Sieges, of course, take time…as do reaping, investing, building, training, learning, and many other worthwhile endeavors. A sudden break in a dam is really “a crack left untreated over time.” A 5-minute Gold Medal ceremony might be better defined as a “Gallons of Sweat and Years of Sacrifice” presentation; A silo filled with grain in a relatively short time frame is actually “a farmer’s lack of sleep, calloused hands, and months of hard work” tower. You get the point. What we call “suddenlies” are usually the last chapters of “sieges;” breakthroughs are typically the end result of fighting the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12), and most answers to prayer are conclusions to a season of intercession. It is ridiculous and saddening when I hear people, especially leaders, imply that national breakthroughs and changes occur because of their prayer meeting or conference. I’ve been guilty of this in times past, which I regret. Millions of past prayers are producing today’s breakthroughs. Some things simply can’t be rushed…and they often don’t come easily. Our generation has been programmed to expect easy procedures and quick results—microwaved processes. But remember that the prepared-from-scratch meal tastes better and costs more than the microwaved sandwich at the local convenience store. Better is worth the wait. Certainly, I have seen breakthroughs occur after only minutes or hours of prayer, but more often than not, I’ve experienced “suddenlies” after weeks, months, or years of praying. Timing is often one of the determining factors. God sometimes synchronizes breakthroughs with what He is doing on a larger scale, as He did with Abraham and Sarah. Isaac was born not when they wanted, but when God’s plan was ready for him. The healing of the man at Gate Beautiful was timed to confirm Christ was the now-risen Messiah. Where America and her restoration are concerned, we are also moving into a season of breakthrough. God has been working through the prayers of the church, synchronizing many aspects of His plans, including the exposing of evil. “Suddenlies” have begun. The greatest shakings and exposures are still to come, however, as Holy Spirit undoes 60 years of leftist, socialistic, and humanistic ideology.  Consider the following: The hatred of one man has been used to suddenly expose a 60-year buildup of corruption in our government. A month ago, on June 27, the Trump-Biden debate confirmed Biden’s dementia to the world and suddenly - in one night - ended a 50-year political career of lies and deceit. Two weeks later, on July 13, a former President and current presidential candidate was shot and miraculously spared. Not since 1981 - 43 years ago - has this occurred. A week ago, a sitting United States President suddenly went into hiding. During that time, he was forced from the upcoming election—ignoring the voters in the Democratic primary—and his replacement was chosen by others. (So much for democracy!) On Tuesday of this week, the Director of the Secret Service resigned due to numerous failures of the agency during the assassination attempt on Trump. Suddenly, the insanity of DEI and other leftist ideologies are front and center. This week, the leader of our greatest ally in the Middle East arrived in the U.S. to the news that over 80 members of Congress will ignore protocol and refuse to listen as he addresses them. And suddenly, it is revealed that the votes of antisemites across the nation and Muslims in MN and MI mean more than loyalty to allies. (Unlike Kamala, the new Democratic candidate and her friends who chose not to attend, I highly recommend you find and listen to yesterday’s incredibly moving speech.)  And a “hillbilly” from my hometown has been nominated to be the next Vice President!  Prayer and faith “sieges” for America are indeed becoming “suddenlies.” Please believe me when I say the chaos and shaking will continue and intensify. America is about to get a bath, a scrubbing is probably more appropriate, followed by a hell-shaking revival of unprecedented proportions. Salvations, deliverances, healings, Holy Spirit outpourings, regional transformations, and more will occur. Many bowls of prayer are full or nearly so (Revelation 5:8; 8:3); faith and endurance sieges are about to bear fruit; and numerous promises are approaching their appointed times (Galatians 6:9). Prayers and decrees must continue, however, until the finish line is crossed. I cannot emphasize strongly enough that we must be faithful in this season, all the way to the end. Keep praying and believing—our “due season” is near (Galatians 6:9). Pray with me: Father, during this time, we draw on the fruit of the spirit You call “perseverance.” We will gather to pray, be faithful in our personal prayer times, and continue to release a symphony of intercession across this land. Help us to accomplish this. Remind us that when we have done what You instructed, You WILL do as You said and heal our land. Persevering and waiting are not forever; breakthroughs, even “suddenlies,” are coming. You told us, “You have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised”  (Hebrews 10:36 NASB). We have endurance, we shall persevere, and we shall receive. We ask You for miracles and breakthroughs regarding our families, our health, our cities, and our nations. We ask for our nation’s government to be cleansed of corruption. We ask for our children to be rescued from leaders and educators who want to mutilate them and steal their future. We ask that America be cleansed from demonic influence. We ask for fire to fall on our churches, revival in our schools, and rivers of living water to flow in our streets.  We boldly declare that we are Caleb’s—we have persevered. Now, Lord, give us our mountain! In Christ’s name, Amen. Our decree: We decree that sieges are  becoming “sud denlies!” Click on the link below to watch the full video.

He Takes Names “Then the Spirit picked me up and took me to the gate of the Temple that faces east. There were twenty-five men standing at the gate. I recognized the leaders, Jaazaniah, son of Azzur, and Pelatiah, son of Benaiah. God said, ‘Son of man, these are the men who draw up blueprints for sin, who think up new programs for evil in this city. They say, “We can make anything happen here. We’re the best. We’re the choice pieces of meat in the soup pot.” Oppose them, son of man. Preach against them.’” (Ezekiel 11:1-4; The Message) “Now the Spirit lifted me up and brought me to the east gate of the Lord’s house which faced eastward. And behold, there were twenty-five men at the entrance of the gate, and among them, I saw Jaazaniah, son of Azzur, and Pelatiah, son of Benaiah, leaders of the people. Then He said to me, ‘Son of man, these are the men who devise wrongdoing and give evil advice in this city…Therefore, prophesy against them, prophesy, son of man!’” (Ezekiel 11:1-2,4; NASB) God takes names. In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel was taken in the spiritual realm to a gate of the Temple, where God showed him 25 men marked for judgment. “These are the men,” He said, “who devise iniquity…prophesy against them.” The subsequent verses speak of their severe judgments. I can’t think of anything more frightening than to know that my name was on a list of those God was about to judge. We don’t want that for anyone! He also keeps a list of those He intends to bless. There’s a revealing description of this in the book of Malachi. “The context of this book is the unfaithfulness of Israel, a people God loved very much and who were supposed to be walking in covenant with Him. They had turned away from Him, however, and were instead worshiping idols. God’s desire was for them to return to Him, and He was using Malachi to challenge them accordingly. “In the midst of this season in which God was experiencing such painful rejection, several individuals who still honored and respected Him were conversing. Based on the passage, their conversation was obviously honoring Him. As they were speaking to one another, the Lord heard it and was deeply moved. ‘Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord gave attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who esteem His name. “And they will be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts, “on the day that I prepare My own possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him. So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.’” (Malachi 3:16-18) “‘Gave attention’ is from the Hebrew word qashab,(1) which means ‘to prick up the ears, like an animal coming to alertness.’ Imagine God, feeling the pain of unfaithfulness and broken relationships, suddenly hearing some of His family speaking of Him respectfully and lovingly. He became alert and listened to them attentively here in Malachi. “God is always listening for the sounds of love. John said He is love personified (1 John 4:8, 16), and as our loving Father and friend, He enjoys the company of those who also honor the relationship. “The passage in Malachi goes on to say the Lord ‘heard’ these individuals. Among other definitions, this Hebrew word also means ‘to eavesdrop.’ God began eavesdropping on their conversation, not to catch them doing something wrong but because their conversation was blessing Him! “God’s heart is often so incredibly misunderstood. Jesus, who came to show us the true nature of God, was so kind that He was loved by young and old, including sinners. Only self-righteous, religious legalists and the truly evil didn’t like Him. He was interesting, compassionate, and kind. “In Malachi’s day, God’s heart was so moved by these people who loved and honored Him that He instructed angels to create ‘a book of remembrance’ and record their names in it. He would honor them later. He called them ‘mine’ and His ‘possession’ (segullah)(2). Segullah was the word for a treasure or jewel. The Lord was so deeply moved by what He was hearing that He referred to these friends as a treasure to His heart. Amazing.”(3) What an incredible passage. Such contrasts. Some were on the list for judgment, others for blessing. Before the judgments began, God wanted us to know that His heart is that of a loving father, and that He records not only the names of the wicked, but also those who love Him. He loves them back. Pray with me: Father, You take no pleasure in judging the wicked (Ezekiel 33:11). We know there are some in our land who have arrogantly rebelled against You. If they do not turn in repentance, they will experience Your judgment. We ask You to give them another chance; soften their heart before it is too late. We also know You will not allow evil to stop Your plans. We command the release of Your will into our nation, just as You instructed us to do. Cleansing, restoration, revival, reformation, healing, and deliverance - we command these things to materialize. We also continue to surround our leaders with protection. Assign angels to guard them. We pray especially for Trump and leading conservative voices, whom we know satan would love to destroy. Foil every plan. And send true revival to them. We ask that the coming shaking will end with revival in Washington. We pray and declare all this in the authority of Christ. Amen. Our decree: We decree that the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. (Psalm 19:9) Click on the link below to watch the full video. Portions of today’s post came from my book The Pleasure of His Company. James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 7181. Ibid., ref. no. 5459. Dutch Sheets, The Pleasure of His Company (Bloomington, MN: Bethany House Publishers), pp. 159-162.

Amp It Up, Praying Church For those interested in the political process, which should be all of us but sadly is not, it is almost impossible not to guess and speculate what each side is doing. In this era of big money, globalism, intricate election tampering, shadow governments, media spin, etc., this tendency is even more appealing. It is actually necessary for campaigns, fundraisers, and candidates to do so; for the rest of us, it’s usually just to scratch our curiosity itch. As one who tries to stay informed, I am constantly listening to others, both secular and spiritual voices. Much of what I hear from both arenas is this speculative guessing, and must be taken with a grain of salt. (That’s a nice way of saying it is a waste of time.) I’m sure I’m guilty of diving into this speculation at times as my curiosity kicks in. But as intercessors, we don’t need to involve ourselves in this guessing game in order to pray effectively. Our assignment is to pray according to Scripture and the leading of Holy Spirit. Even when in conversation with trusted prophetic leaders and intercessors, I listen for and try to distinguish between the “I feel,” “I believe,” or “I think” comments versus “the Holy Spirit said” comments. There are prophetic voices I trust very much when they prophesy, but I realize they are no more accurate than anyone else with their “I feel’s.” Be careful what you take as credible. And as prophetic voices, it’s okay to speculate with our friends, but publicly, we must carefully delineate between our personal opinions and our words from the Lord. Spiritual maturity and a knowledge of the Word give us the ability to divide between soul and spirit, discerning the thoughts and intents of the heart; they do not keep the soul from producing them. Fortunately, as intercessors we do not have to possess all the specifics in order to pray effectively. What Holy Spirit wants and needs for us to know, He will show us. Apart from that, we should pray according to His revealed will in Scripture. For example, we do not need a word from the Lord regarding God’s position on: Abortion Truth Justice Gender identity Sexual promiscuity Treatment of children Drug addiction/enforcement Human trafficking Globalism Oppression of the poor And much more. All that is needed when praying regarding these and many other issues is what Scripture teaches. We should pray for the release of this written will and against that which opposes it. Jesus said we could command His Kingdom authority and release His will into the earth (Matthew 6:10). Also, God does not require us to ask perfectly. In Joshua 10, the army of Israel was defending the Gibeonites, a people under attack and with whom they were in covenant. In order to finish this task and fully defeat the enemy, Israel needed to do so before darkness set in, which was coming quickly. So Joshua took audacious action: “Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon” (Joshua10:12 KJV). And God answered! We know it wasn’t actually the sun that needed to stand still, but rather the earth, in order for this incredible miracle to occur. The earth’s rotation causes day and night, not the sun. When Joshua asked for the sun to stand still, one can almost hear an angel or two respond, “Well, we can’t answer that prayer.” To which the Lord evidently responded, “Give him a break! You know what he wants - give him more daylight!” I submit to you that we don’t have to ask perfectly in order for God to respond with a yes. To pray against satan’s lies from succeeding, we don’t need to know the exact lie. To pray against the assassination of leaders, we don’t have to know which leader or when it will occur. To pray against the conniving of dishonest politicians influenced by demons to manipulate people and facts, we aren’t required to know the details. Binding the lying spirits and their plans is adequate. After doing so, and this is the Ekklesia’s trump card, pray in the Spirit. Holy Spirit knows what, when, and who needs prayer. In chapter 7 of my book, Intercessory Prayer, I teach how Holy Spirit helps us in this regard. We cannot lose when we allow Him to pray through us. This is what causes all things to work together for our good (See Romans 8:26-28). The working together for good doesn’t occur simply because we are saved and love God. It occurs as we allow Holy Spirit to intercede through us and guide us in our praying. At the risk of sounding self-serving, this would be an excellent time to read or reread this chapter of Intercessory Prayer. I stated on June 28, that “Biden is unelectable and WILL be removed…they have a plan.” This past Friday I wrote and released in yesterday’s post, “I believe Biden will now be replaced on the ticket.” I also said that over the next 3.5 months, “hellish assaults” will take place against Trump and conservative voices, as will “unrest and violence.” This I know. The left will pull out all the stops. I don’t know all the plans of the left - the anti-Bible and anti-Christ people - in this election, but I know who does. And as He shows us prophetically what to pray, we will do so. When He does not, we will pray for and command the release of His Kingdom will, as His Word instructs. We will also pray in the Spirit. And we will finish the job. We have three months to finish this phase of turning around our nation. I could not care less about political parties, but I could not care more about protecting babies, ending the mutilation of children, the freedom of the church to operate, and closing our borders to terrorists and murderous drugs. Amp it up, praying church. Turn the radio or music off in the car and pray. Take walks and pray. Pray yourself to sleep. Pray when preparing for your day. Pray alone, pray with others. Pastor, PLEASE make your congregation a house of prayer, as Jesus taught in Matthew 21:13. Let’s Pray Together Now: Father, You never asked us to pray for that which will occur automatically. You didn’t tell us to ask for the sun to rise, gravity to operate, or air to breathe. But You did ask us to pray for harvesters, the rain of Holy Spirit, the gospel to prosper, signs and wonders to occur, evil to be stopped, and righteous leaders in government. Without a doubt, You made us partners with You in releasing Your Kingdom rule on earth. We act on this now. We command Your Kingdom rule into America’s 2024 elections. We declare that we are turning the nation through prayer, and that this election will further this process. We bind evil forces, demonic spirits that are operating in attempts to place antichrist forces into government positions. We bind efforts to stop the clean-up of America’s government. We bind the plans of the evil one to assassinate Trump, Harris, leaders in Congress, and Justices on the Supreme Court. We ask for Your protection from the terrorists now in our nation. We are not sure what door/s we have opened in this regard, but we appeal to You for mercy. We know the next several months will be chaotic - the shaking must come - but You have promised America’s salvation and the rebirth of America. We say what You say, decreeing this. And we declare that the great harvest You have ripened will be reaped. Prodigals, atheists, rebels, addicts, those who are deceived, rich and poor, every ethnic group, young and old - all will be impacted by this great ingathering. This is coming and will NOT be stopped! As always, in Christ’s authority, we ask and declare these things. Amen. Our decree: We decree that the Kingdom of God, through Christ’s authority, prevails in America. Click on the link below to watch the full video.

Finish the Job! I write and record each Give Him 15 post the work day before it is released. Therefore, today’s post, Monday, was written and recorded on Friday. The RNC convention ended the night before, Biden had been diagnosed with Covid, and calls were being made for his withdrawal from the campaign. By the time you hear or read this, it is entirely possible that Biden will no longer be the dems presidential candidate. I stated on June 28, the day following the now-famous debate: “Was the embarrassment of Biden’s Thursday night [debate] performance part of a plan to replace him? I’ve repeatedly said that I don’t believe Biden will be on the ticket in November. That isn’t prophecy, just an educated opinion and a feeling I have. I’ve felt that with his rapid decline, he could not continue to fool Americans enough to be reelected and remain the puppet of the puppeteers behind the curtain. BUT THESE MANAGERS HAVE NO INTENTION OF STEPPING ASIDE. When seeing Biden’s freefall, was this debate the beginning of their replacement plan? Perhaps. “If so, will Biden continue cooperating with those in control and step aside at the most fortuitous time for the replacement to be inserted? “Or, has he, in his demented state, bullish nature, and tremendous arrogance, convinced himself that he is fit and up to the job? Has he now rebelled against his handlers? He says he isn’t stepping down; this, of course, could simply be part of the plan to wait for the right time. “If Biden does buck those in charge, what will they do? They DO have a plan. And they WON’T willingly give up power. Biden is unelectable and WILL be removed, unless they have a plan or crisis prepared with which to take the election in some other way. “…I am blatantly stating these things to emphasize that we must keep praying. The powers trying to overthrow America are not finished. I say again, they have a plan. Part of that plan has been to destroy and/or defeat Trump, one of the few people in the world who can withstand their attacks…” Then came the assassination attempt on Trump. I’m not accusing anyone other than satan and the shooter for that; time will tell if anyone else was involved. But certainly, demonic forces are involved in the plan to destroy America, and this attempt to take Trump’s life was part of their plan. What can we expect now? I am not prophesying the following; just telling you what I believe is coming. The most hellish assault yet on Trump and conservative voices will occur over the next 3.5 months by the left. Participants in these attacks will include government (including the deep state), media, some in the entertainment world, globalists, and certain foreign governments. The assault will include lies, distortion, slander, and more. Violence and unrest in America will also increase. This will include riots, possibly terrorism, and yes, I feel there could be more attempts to assassinate conservative leaders, including Supreme Court justices. Heightened security whenever and wherever possible, and great vigilance are advisable. Evil people, aided by evil spiritual forces, will pull out all the stops to end America’s turnaround. Attempts to generate fear among the people and silence key voices will be part of the demonic strategy. And I believe Biden will now be replaced on the ticket, perhaps even as the current President. He is not running the country anyway, and the number one concern of those who are, is power. Their strategy will not be formulated by determining what is best for America; it will only be “How do we stay in power?” Now, what should WE do? Apart from our civic duties, we must continue to pray, and increase prayer. The tendency of humans, including believers, is to place their trust in people rather than God. This often occurs subconsciously - without us even realizing it. We must not do this. I wholeheartedly believe Donald Trump and those he surrounds himself with will work hard to do everything he promised. But he/they CANNOT do it without God’s supernatural help. By Trump’s own admission - and which has now been clearly seen - he cannot even stay alive without God’s protective hand. “Unless the Lord builds a house, They who build it labor in vain; Unless the Lord guards a city, The watchman stays awake in vain” (Psalm 127:1 NASB). Should we be moved by fear? Absolutely not! We are winning the battle for America’s soul and destiny, and we will prevail! “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. Certainly goodness and faithfulness will follow me all the days of my life, And my dwelling will be in the house of the Lord forever.” (Ps.23:4-6 NASB) I am preaching diligence, not fear; offense, not defense; advancement, not retreat. Protective precautions need not be fear-based; they are simply prudent. As I have stated many times: prayer is saving America and generating a worldwide harvest. Now, we must finish well. In 2 Kings 13, Joash, king of Israel spoke with the prophet Elisha. Paraphrasing the passage, Elisha told him, “All is well. You are poised to completely defeat your enemies. Now, do one final prophetic act for me: strike the ground with these arrows.” The king struck the ground three times. Elisha’s attitude changed immediately; he was irate. “You should have struck it 5 or 6 times! I’m changing my prediction - you WON’T completely destroy them.” Notice that the prophet had not been given an exact number of times the king should have struck the ground - “five or six” - he said. It was not a number he was looking for, but an attitute. The king did not possess a tenacious, finishing mindset. He had a “that’s good enough” mindset, a “just enough to get by” attitude. Elisha knew it wasn’t what was needed. We must keep striking in intercession! We must. Finish the job, President Trump! Finish the job, leaders in Washington! And finish the job, praying church! Pray with me: Father, we look to You and You alone for victory in this hour of history. We have put our hands to the plow, and we will not turn back. We thank You for warriors like Trump, now we ask You to strengthen him. Protect him. He was born for such a time as this, but so were we, the watchmen You have raised up to generate the spiritual power needed for the natural tasks. Our Founders knew it was only through their appeals to heaven that they could succeed. We know this, as well. And so we ask: Release Your fire. Release Your power. Release Your wind and rain. Release Your wisdom and strategy. Release Your revelation and discernment. Release the white horse Rider. Release Your angels. Release Your cleansing. Release a finishing anointing to the Ekklesia. Release miracles. Release revival. Save America, and save billions around the world. As always, we pray in the authority of Yeshua. Amen. Our decree: We decree that we will not grow complacent or place our trust in man to turn around our nation. We will keep our faith anchored in God and finish well. Click on the link below to watch the full video.