"Elijah, Jehu and the War Against Jezebel" - Francis Frangipane THE ELIJAH LIST

"Elijah, Jehu and the War Against Jezebel"

Francis Frangipane  THE ELIJAH LIST

Jul 24, 2019

From the Desk of Steve Shultz:

This very insightful word was previously posted in 2011, but we felt it is a NOW word to send out again to our Elijah List readers.

With so much negative news in the media and angry voices rising daily, this is a great reminder of the war we are in and how we can pray.

As you read through this here's a reminder: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Eph. 6:12). (To Subscribe to the Elijah List subscribe here.)

Thank you for making the always-free Elijah List Ministries possible. To partner with us, click here.

Your donations truly help us keep these emails free for you. Donate at:

Give a Monthly Gift

Enjoy! And thanks for forwarding this to your friends! They can subscribe here.

Steve Shultz, Founder and Publisher
The Elijah List & Breaking Christian News 
https://www.elijahlist.com

P.S. – Oh, and a Quick Note to our readers: To EXPLORE our more than 2,500 Christian Prophetic books, CDs, and gifts go to: elijahshopper.com.

"Elijah, Jehu and the War Against Jezebel"

Francis Frangipane, Cedar Rapids, IA

There is a war, a very ancient war, between the spirit of Elijah and the spirit of Jezebel. In this age-old battle, Elijah represents the interests of Heaven: the call to repentance and the return to God. Jezebel, on the other hand, represents that unique principality whose purpose is to hinder the deep work of God in the Church.

To the Victor Goes the Nation

To understand the conflict between the Elijah spirit and the spirit of Jezebel, we must understand these two adversaries as they are seen in the Scriptures. Each is the spiritual counterpart of the other. Is Elijah bold? Jezebel is brazen. Is Elijah ruthless toward evil? Jezebel is vicious toward righteousness. Does Elijah speak of the ways and words of God? Jezebel is full of systems of witchcraft and words of deceit. The war between Elijah and Jezebel continues today. The chief warriors on either side are the prophets of both foes; to the victor goes the soul of our nation.

In the tradition of Samuel, Elijah was the head of the school of prophets. Under him were the "sons of the prophets" – literally hundreds of prophetic minstrels – who proclaimed the Word of the Lord in song. In this war, however, Jezebel had viciously and systematically murdered nearly all of God's servants until it appeared only Elijah remained (see 1 Kings 18:22). Elijah, as the last of the prophets, then challenged the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of the Asherah to a demonstration of power: their gods against the power of the Lord.

These 850 men were the false prophets, the satanic priests "at Jezebel's table" (1 Kings 18:19). They were the most powerful, demonized individuals that the hosts of darkness could produce. King Ahab, Jezebel's husband, sent a message out to "all the sons of Israel" (v. 20), and the nation came to witness the battle between the God of Elijah and the demons of Jezebel.

The terms of the challenge were simple: each was to place an ox upon an altar. Elijah then said, "You call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord, and the God who answers by fire, He is God" (v. 24). Six hours later the cult priests still could produce no fire; twelve hours passed and Elijah began to mock them: "Call out [to Baal] with a loud voice...perhaps he is asleep and needs to be awakened" (v. 27). Then, just before evening, Elijah prayed over his sacrifice and "the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering" (v. 38). The Bible says that "when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces and said, 'The Lord, He is God; the Lord, He is God'" (v. 39). Immediately after this powerful witness of the Lord, Elijah had the Hebrews secure the prophets of Baal and all of them were put to death. (Photo via Pixabay)

We would suppose that, at this point, Elijah would have asked God to finish off Jezebel, but he did not. In fact – and this may surprise you – Elijah came under spiritual warfare. When Jezebel heard what had happened to her servants, she released a flood of demonic power against Elijah, and he fled in fear.

You may ask, "How could such a mighty prophet turn and run?" The answer is not simple. In fact, the situation worsened. We next see Elijah sitting under a juniper tree, bewailing that he is no better than his fathers – actually praying that he might die! (See 1 Kings 19:4.) What pressure overwhelmed this great man of God that he would fall prey to fear and discouragement? He succumbed to the witchcraft of Jezebel.

And now, let the reader understand: when you stand against the spirit of Jezebel, even though you resist her lusts and witchcrafts, you must guard against the power-demons of fear and discouragement, for these she will send against you to keep you from your victory!

The Drama Continues...

It is a mystery, but the Bible tells us that under certain circumstances the Holy Spirit will transfer the anointing of one to function through another. We read that a double portion of the spirit of Elijah ministered through his successor, Elisha (see 2 Kings 2:9-11). When John the Baptist came forth, he came "as a forerunner before [the Lord] in the spirit and power of Elijah" (Luke 1:17). Jesus said of the Baptist, "John himself is Elijah who was to come"(Matt. 11:14, see also 17:11-13).

The spiritual influence of Elijah had returned to the world in the ministry of John the Baptist. Like Elijah, John proclaimed the need for repentance. One such area was in the adulterous lives of King Herod and his wife Herodias. When John confronted them, Herodias had him imprisoned (Mark 6:17-18).

Who was this manipulating and working through the dark, psychic side of Herodias? As Elijah's spirit ministered through John, so Jezebel had resurfaced through the rebellion of the seductress, Herodias. Remember, through Jezebel's many witchcrafts (2 Kings 9:22), she attacked Elijah, causing fear and discouragement, which led to Elijah's time of self-doubt and confusion. Now Herodias had come forcibly against John the Baptist. This is the prophet who had visibly seen the Spirit descend upon Christ; he heard the Father's audible voice announcing His beloved Son; he gazed with awe upon the purity of Israel's Messiah. Now fear and discouragement are weighing upon the prophet's shoulders. Doubt floods his soul about Christ: "Are You the Expected One, or shall we look for someone else?" (Matt. 11:3).

"A strategic day came when Herod...gave a banquet" (Mark 6:21). "Strategic" is the perfect word to describe the timing of this event. For Herodias had her daughter dance before Herod, enticing out of him a promise to give whatever she asked. At her mother's request – more truly, at Jezebel's request – she demanded and received the head of the Baptist. And temporarily, the confrontation between the spirits of these enemies subsided.

Elijah is Coming!

Two thousand years ago, Jesus stated that the ministry of Elijah was not over. He promised, "Elijah is coming and will restore all things" (Matt. 17:11). Also, Malachi the prophet wrote, "Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. He will restore..." (Mal. 4:5-6). Elijah is coming to war and restore. He came before the great day, and he is returning before the terrible day of the Lord.

Let it also be known that if Elijah is coming before Jesus returns, so we shall also see the manifestation of Jezebel in the world. Do you not discern her in our land in the abundance of witchcraft and harlotries? Do you not hear her brazen voice rejecting God's authority? Have you not, with shame, beheld her working as she caused God's "bond-servants" to "commit acts of immorality" (Rev. 2:20)? Seeing Jezebel so blatantly manifest herself only confirms that the spirit of Elijah is also here bringing repentance and raising up warring prophets throughout our land.

Not a Time of Peace

In the Old Testament we see how God destroyed Jezebel. Jehu, the newly crowned king of Israel, was sent by the word of the Lord through Elijah's successor, Elisha, to fulfill God's promise. As Jehu and his men furiously drove their chariots toward Jezreel, the kings of Israel and Judah came out to meet him. They asked, "'Is it peace, Jehu?' And he answered, 'What peace, so long as the harlotries of your mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?'" (2 Kings 9:22). And Jehu slew the two kings. Immediately afterward, he rode into Jezreel to confront Jezebel. (Photo via Pixabay)

The Word tells us that when she saw him, "she put paint on her eyes and adorned her head..." and looking out an upper window, she called to him, "'...Is it peace, Zimri, murderer of your master?' And he looked up at the window and said, 'Who is on my side? Who?' So two or three eunuchs looked out at him. Then he said, 'Throw her down.' So they threw her down, and some of her blood splattered on the wall and on the horses; and he trampled her underfoot" (2 Kings 9:30-33 NKJV).

There was something in Jehu's spirit that we must possess today. While we must be compassionate toward those captured by her wiles (see Rev. 2:21), we must show no mercy to the Jezebel spirit itself. Jehu offered Jezebel no compromise whatsoever. So we must offer this demon no opportunity to probe our soul and unlock vulnerabilities to her "many witchcrafts." She must be cast down from her high place of influence in our minds, that we may truly follow Christ (see Luke 10:19; Rom. 16:20).

There can be no peace, no relaxing under our "fig tree" until the spirit of Jezebel is overcome and as long as her harlotries and witchcrafts are so many in our land. We must refuse to settle for a false peace based on compromise and fear, for the Spirit of God is calling for war!

It is significant that the eunuchs cast her down. Some who are reading this have become slaves to this evil spirit. Today God is giving you the privilege of participating in His judgment against Jezebel. You cast her down from your imagination! Side with God and let the deliverance of God come forth!

Let's pray: Heavenly Father, I submit my heart to You. In the name of Jesus Christ, I resist the spirit of Jezebel. As a servant of Jesus Christ, I release those who have been Jezebel's captives, even those who have become open to immorality through the internet or illicit relationships. I speak to Jezebel's slaves: If you are truly on the Lord's side, then cast down your sympathetic thoughts toward this cruel master! Renounce her evil imaginations from your mind! In the power of Jesus' name, I release you from her psychic grip upon your soul. In the authority of the living Christ! Amen.

(Adapted from Francis Frangipane's booklet, The Jezebel Spirit) (To Subscribe to the Elijah List subscribe here.)

Francis Frangipane
Ministries of Francis Frangipane
Email: francis1@frangipane.org
Website: www.frangipane.org

Francis Frangipane is the founder of River of Life Ministries in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and has traveled throughout the world ministering to thousands of pastors and intercessors from many backgrounds. Francis' heartfelt prayer is to see established in every city Christlike pastors and intercessors, united before God, revealing the love of Christ to their communities. 

Since 1985, he has written fourteen books, plus a number of study booklets. Over the past decades, Francis has served on a number of other ministry boards. However, in recent years he has gradually resigned from these various boards. As of June 2009, he has also retired from his position as senior pastor of River of Life Ministries. In this more simplified life, Frangipane is devoting himself to prayer and the ministry of God's Word.

To receive more words like this in YOUR inbox, subscribe FREE to the Elijah List at this link https://elijahlist.com/subscribe.

Francis Frangipane: The Grinch That Stole Christians - THE ELIJAH LIST

December 24, 2018

"The Grinch That Stole Christians"
Francis Frangipane, Cedar Rapids, IA

From the Desk of Steve Shultz:

Dear Elijah List and Elijah Streams friends!

Below is a great, FRESH WORD through Francis Frangipane.

Each day, we hand-pick the "best of the best" words for you.

Hey, here is a quick message from Danny Silk for this end-of-the-year GIVING TIME.

Now is TRULY the VERY BEST TIME FOR YOU TO GIVE to receive a year-end Tax Receipt for 2018.

These are crucial days for us to raise money to fund this ministry into 2019.

Thanks so MUCH for your generosity.

Give a Monthly Gift

If you would like to give to the ongoing work of this ministry you can donate online, or by postal mailing your donation to:

Elijah List Ministries
528 Ellsworth St. SW, Albany, OR 97321

Thank you and God bless you!

Steve and Derene Shultz, Founders
Elijah List Ministries

*************************************

"The Grinch That Stole Christians"
Francis Frangipane, Cedar Rapids, IA

Can we have a little family talk? For most of you this won't apply, but the devil has some of us bound, where we are focused on issues that are not the real issue. What do I mean? A few Christians have been taught that, according to Jeremiah 10:4, God is against the use of Christmas trees. The text reads, "They decorate it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers so that it will not totter" (Jeremiah 10:4). Superimpose the image of our silver and gold Christmas decorations and we have a "revelation" that God hates Christmas (or at least Christmas trees).

However, if you read the entire chapter, it isn't talking about Christmas, but idols and people who worship them. So if you are sitting at home reading this and it's prior to December 25, you can get a Christmas tree. It's okay as long as you don't worship it. In fact, if you're reading this and it's past December 25, that might even be better—Christmas trees and decorations are very inexpensive after Christmas.

Been There...

Please don't misunderstand me or think that I'm condemning anyone for their faith about this. I'm writing as one who, for ten years, didn't allow my family to celebrate Christmas.

I, too, had been taught this interpretation of Jeremiah 10:4. I thought I was suffering persecution for my faith when relatives or friends criticized our colorless, joyless, and loveless viewpoint about Christmas. Their criticisms actually hardened my heart and made my stand more firm.

Avoiding Christmas wasn't easy. We had five children and a foster child. Each December the children had to listen as I explained theologically why the Christmas tree was evil and not celebrating Jesus' birthday was good.

Finally, with childlike innocence and purity, my oldest daughter, who was nine at the time, asked why gift giving was evil if we were also honoring Jesus.

Suddenly, my heart melted. I saw how religiously unloving this doctrine had made me. We weren't being persecuted for our faith, but for my stubbornness and lack of love. I deserved to be criticized. So I asked my family to forgive me, and we decided to have our first Christmas.

We were quite poor at the time and couldn't afford a tree. However, there was an evergreen growing in the ditch along the road by our farmhouse that I cut down and dragged into the living room. It was an ugly tree with the kind of needles that fall quickly. But we had love and we celebrated the birth of Jesus as a family.

The Law of Love

Perhaps the worst thing about not celebrating Christmas is the isolation; it cuts us off from a multitude of people whom we could reach during this season. People, in general, are more open to Christ. If I go into a mall for any reason in December, I love listening to songs about Christ's birth. Yes, I know "Frosty the Snowman" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" will probably be playing also. So what? It won't stop me from rejoicing when I hear "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing!" or "Joy to the World."

In my spirit, I agree with the songs.

Sometimes I actually sing along out loud. They are awesome songs. Other times I quietly pray for the Holy Spirit to fall on people as they listen to music that was inspired by people who sought the heart of God. Why be upset with that? Why not praise God? Why be so focused on what's wrong that we fail to celebrate what's right? We can be miserable, complaining, joyless, critical, loveless people sometimes, and then we wonder why God doesn't lead people to us.

Christ's Great Commission commanded us to "Go!" to where people are, not wait until they come to us. Paul said, "To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law though not being myself under the law, so that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law, though not being without the law of God but under the law of Christ, so that I might win those who are without law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some. I do all things for the sake of the Gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it" (1 Cor. 9:20-23).

You see, the law or principle we follow is the law of love. 

Jesus said, "But give that which is within as charity, and then all things are clean for you" (Luke 11:41). Love sanctifies and redeems what it touches. Because of love, Paul was able to "...become all things to all men..." (1 Corinthians 9:22). I have no doubt Paul would be at every Christmas gathering he was invited to, using it as an opportunity to win people to Christ.

And before you wonder how deep I was into this anti-Christmas mentality, yes, I knew the history of Saturnalia, and how in the third century the early Church combined the celebration of the winter solstice (a pagan holiday time) with the celebration of Jesus' birth. Yet I also know that the winter solstice happens to be that time of the year when daylight begins to increase, so it is not inappropriate to celebrate Christ's birth at this time.

I also understand that some may teach that Jesus was probably born in October or April, depending on which basis of research one relies upon. But what difference does it really make? Hundreds of millions of people believe that Jesus was born on December 25, and multitudes reflect on the mystery of the incarnation at some time during this season. So why be uptight about the date, especially when arguing about it alienates you from the very people Christ calls you to love? Why get hung up on when the incarnation occurred when we can experience the reality of His incarnation right now and bring Him into people's hearts?

Finally

We, the Frangipane family, celebrate Christmas. We have a tree and ornaments. We are pretty low key about its size. Some years we buy a smaller, living evergreen and then replant it in the yard in the spring. But we are not focused on peripheral issues; we are focused on Christ and celebrating Him with others during this time.

One more thing: the best way to win people to Christ is to simply enjoy them. Picture Jesus laughing, telling stories, enjoying people as He reached to them.

Let's reveal Him, not the Grinch, this holiday season.

Francis Frangipane
Ministries of Francis Frangipane

Email: francis1@frangipane.org
Website: www.frangipane.org

Francis Frangipane is the founder of River of Life Ministries in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and has traveled throughout the world ministering to thousands of pastors and intercessors from many backgrounds. Francis' heartfelt prayer is to see established in every city Christlike pastors and intercessors, united before God, revealing the love of Christ to their communities. 

Since 1985, he has written fourteen books, plus a number of study booklets. Over the past decades, Francis has served on a number of other ministry boards. However, in recent years he has gradually resigned from these various boards. As of June 2009, he has also retired from his position as senior pastor of River of Life Ministries. In this more simplified life, Frangipane is devoting himself to prayer and the ministry of God's Word.

Steve Shultz: "The Most POWERFUL Word I've Seen From Francis Frangipane" - THE ELIJAH LIST

November 17, 2016

"Forgiveness and the Future of Your City"by Francis Frangipane, Cedar Rapids, IA

From the Desk of Steve Shultz:

This HAS to be the SINGLE MOST POWERFUL word I've ever seen Francis Frangipane deliver!

I totally agree with this Word and I feel it coming straight from the Heart of God.

Do you want release from your Adversaries in your life? DO THIS WORD!

Church, do we all want God to SHOW UP and bring great deliverance to the Body of Christ? DO THIS WORD!

Let's really DO THIS! (To Subscribe to the Elijah List go here.)

Please forward this word to your friends! Encourage them to subscribe to the Elijah List right here: http://elijahlist.com/subscribe.

Enjoy!

Steve Shultz, Founder and Publisher
The Elijah List & Breaking Christian News 

http://www.elijahlist.com

*************************************

"Forgiveness and the Future of Your City"by Francis Frangipane, Cedar Rapids, IA

When I look at the conditions of our world – the deep racial and political divisions, immigration problems, terror threats, national debt, wars, and lawlessness in our cities – a deep foreboding comes over my soul. As Christians, we all believe the call of 2 Chronicles 7:14 offers hope – but what if there is no response to the call to humble ourselves and pray? Is there anything we can do to restore hope and stability?

There is a situation mentioned in the Bible that offers a solution. Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, "...and all his army, with all the kingdoms of the earth that were under his dominion and all the peoples, were fighting against Jerusalem" (Jer. 34:1). Because of Israel's sin even the Lord had seemingly withdrawn. For nearly forty years, Jeremiah pleaded with God's people to repent, but they would not. Israel was nearly apostate, and the dire and repeated warnings of Jeremiah were about to come to pass.

However, hidden in the ways of God was a plan, a redemptive strategy that would reverse Israel's direction. If the Jews implemented a "Year of Remission" (see Deut. 15:1-18), God would show to them the same mercy they showed to one another. What was required was that "each man [would] set free his male servant and each man his female servant...so that no one [would] keep them, a Jew his brother, in bondage" (Jer. 34:9).

Not only did they agree to this year of release, but "all the officials and all the people obeyed." Then, in earnest faith, they "entered into the covenant...so that no one should keep them any longer in bondage; they obeyed, and set them free" (Jer. 34:10).

The Bible says the Judeans then cut a calf in two and passed "between its parts" (Jer. 34:18). This was the same kind of covenant ritual Abraham had made with the Lord centuries earlier (see Gen. 15:10, 17-18.). The redemptive plan of God was this: If the Israelites set free their slaves, they would not be taken as slaves. If they showed mercy, God would show Himself merciful to them as well. Even though they were, by all counts, nearly apostate, the act of releasing the debts of others would have averted the destruction of their cities, for "mercy triumphs over judgment" (James 2:13)!

As they were releasing one another, something marvelous occurred. Supernaturally the Lord drew "the king of Babylon…away" (Jer. 34:21). At the very moment the people were releasing the debts of others, God was reducing their debt to Him. What they did on earth was actually being replicated for them in Heaven!

In all the years since the establishment of the Law, Israel had never celebrated such a year of release. Yet now, even with their enemies within striking range, Israel covenanted with God to free every man his slave.

Unforgiveness in the Church

How does the above story relate to us? Today we too are facing overwhelming foes. Our society is overrun with corruption and the Church is hardly better than the world. The prophets are warning of judgment, and at times, it seems as though God has stopped listening to our prayers.

Yet I believe if we can sincerely forgive those who are spiritual debtors to us – even starting with those in our homes and families – if we extend forgiveness to our neighbors and proclaim release to those who left our churches, if Blacks could forgive Whites and white people forgive people of color, the mercy of God will begin to fall again on our land.

Let the Lord reveal all with whom you have unforgiveness. Let mayors announce a day of release. Let white police and people from the Black community pray for each other, asking for forgiveness for mistakes and abuses. If we show mercy, God will show mercy as well.

Don't forget – Jesus taught that if we are at the altar and remember someone has unforgiveness toward us, we are to leave our offering and be reconciled (Matt. 5:23-24). Reconciliation is more important than ritual, according to the Lord. Yes, let us covenant with God for our communities and even for our nation!

Indeed, let us take this one step further: Let us release those who have voted for candidates with whom we strongly disagree. 

It is time to rid ourselves of every debt we feel we are owed by others. And let us start anew to rebuild our lives in Christ and reunite in the power of redemption. Let us bring Christ's covenant of forgiveness into our interracial relationships, and let us, each one, forgive others as completely as God in Christ has forgiven us.

The Sad End of Jeremiah 34

In spite of the great breakthrough Israel experienced, their story ends badly. For when the enemy left and the pressure was off, each man "took back" his male and female servants and "brought them into subjection" (see vs. 13-16).

Beloved, hear me please: If only the Jews would have followed through and held fast their release, the Book of Lamentations never would have been written! Mercy would have triumphed and remained, but such was not the case.

Still, for us, the final chapters of our times are yet to be written. We can learn from the example we see in Jeremiah 34. 

If we will embrace mercy, if we can sincerely release one another, we will escape the dire expectations coming to meet our sinful society. Our actions today, even now, will determine whether our society is blessed or judged. Let us, therefore, release the debts of every man and covenant for mercy for our land.

Heavenly Father, we recall the words of Jesus, Your Son. He mentioned how often He desired to gather the people together, but they would not have it. He warned that their house would be left to them desolate. We hear this and set our hearts to forgive and maintain forgiveness. We ask to be gathered together, to forgive and to be healed from the burden of our past. God have mercy on us even as we extend mercy to others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Francis Frangipane 

Ministries of Francis Frangipane

Email: francis1@frangipane.org
Website: www.frangipane.org

Francis Frangipane is the founder of River of Life Ministries in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and has traveled throughout the world ministering to thousands of pastors and intercessors from many backgrounds. Francis' heartfelt prayer is to see established in every city Christlike pastors and intercessors, united before God, revealing the love of Christ to their communities. Since 1985, he has written fourteen books, plus a number of study booklets. 

Over the past decades, Francis has served on a number of other ministry boards. However, in recent years he has gradually resigned from these various boards. As of June 2009, he has also retired from his position as senior pastor of River of Life Ministries. In this more simplified life, Frangipane is devoting himself to prayer and the ministry of God's Word.

*************************************

To receive daily, encouraging prophetic emails from The Elijah List to your in box CLICK HERE or go to: http://elijahlist.com/subscribe

Visit our webstore and check out our brand new conference set: What is God Saying for 2016?:
http://www.elijahshopper.com/what-is-god-saying-for-2016-conference/

Also check out Steve Shultz's Revised and 2nd Edition book Can't You Talk Louder, God?: http://www.elijahshopper.com/cant-you-talk-louder-god-secrets-to-hearing-the-voice-of-god-revised-and-updated-edition-by-steve-shultz/

Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep Elijah List website, email contact info, and author contact information intact.

Elijah List Publications
528 Ellsworth St. SW
Albany, OR 97321

www.elijahlist.com
email: info@elijahlist.net
Phone 1-541-926-3250

Francis Frangipane: The Unshakable Kingdom - The Elijah List

Francis Frangipane:

The Unshakable Kingdom

The Elijah List

When the Earth Shakes

Over the past 15 years it has become hard to be unaffected by the massive earthquakes that have rocked our planet. In December 2004, the great South Asian tsunami roared along the Indian Ocean, striking the coastlines of nine nations. More than 250,000 people died, and millions more were left grieving and homeless. Scientists tell us that not only did this great disaster change the landscape of Asia, but it also actually caused the planet to wobble on its axis.

Nine and a half months later, in October 2005, another devastating quake struck, this time in the Kashmir region of Pakistan. It killed nearly 80,000 people. Millions again were left without homes or shelter. Then, along with quakes in Chile and New Zealand, the horrific Haitian earthquake struck and another quarter million lives were lost. Lastly, a huge 9.0 quake and subsequent tsunami struck the northeast coast of Japan, raising the specter of a nuclear meltdown and the widespread poisoning caused by radioactive contamination.

There is something happening in the earth. Massive earthquakes. Huge death tolls. Unprecedented storms. It may all be a coincidence, but I cannot help but call to mind the Lord's word, "Yet once more I will shake not only the earth, but also the Heaven" (Hebrews 12:26). There is certainly a great shaking occurring in the nations.

Remember, Jesus warned that "great earthquakes" would be part of a variety of natural calamities, which He called "birth pangs," that would introduce the end times (Luke 21:11; Matthew 24:8; Mark 13:8). In other words, He told us to expect natural disasters to increase both in magnitude and frequency, as though the earth itself was recoiling against the weight of sin. As Isaiah said, "The earth is shaken violently...it totters like a shack, for its transgression is heavy upon it" (Isaiah 24:19-20).

(Photo via en.wikipedia.org)

If we are, indeed, living in the last decades of this present age, we should not expect the planet to remain calm or tranquil. God will use these calamities to draw multitudes to Himself, but we should be aware they will probably grow in severity.

Spiritual Shaking

As disasters increase at the end of the age, so also will fear be multiplied in the world. However, fear will not be our companion if we truly know the Lord. Indeed, it is also during this time the Lord promised that the powers of darkness will be shaken from their position of influence and rule. The Lord will "shake not only the earth, but also the heaven" (Hebrews12:26, emphasis added).

This verse is not referring to the highest of heavens where God dwells. The heaven mentioned here refer to the spiritual realm, also known as the "heavenly places" elsewhere in the Bible (Ephesians 3:10). These "heavenly places" represent the spiritual dimension from which "the powers...the world forces of this darkness...the spiritual forces of wickedness" exert their rule over nations (Ephesians 6:12).

Thus, the Lord says in Isaiah, "It will happen in that day, that the Lord will punish the host of heaven on high, and the kings of the earth on earth" (Isaiah 24:21). The last great shaking will affect both the natural and spiritual realms. Likewise, Jesus warned that during the time of the end "the powers of the heavens will be shaken" (Matthew 24:29).

Remember, the shaking of these powers denotes the "removing" of their place of influence and rule (Hebrews 12:27).

In other words, every demonic stronghold that hinders the coming forth of the Kingdom of God on Earth is ultimately going to be confronted by the power and authority of Heaven!

One may argue, "These verses refer to the end of the age." Yes, the finality of this twofold shaking – things on Earth but also Heaven – won't reach its maximum power until just before the Lord returns during the tribulation period.

However, I believe it has already begun on a certain level. Consider the former Soviet Union. Here was the largest geographic empire in the history of the world; its military was powerful beyond measure. The USSR was avowed atheistic in nature, and it spread atheism to all nations under its influence.

Yet, in an amazing and unfathomably sophisticated exercise of the divine will, the Almighty judged the spiritual powers ruling Soviet Communism. The USSR fell without a violent revolution, without an insurrection or war, suddenly and dramatically it disintegrated.
(Photo via en.wikipedia.org)

Not only did this great empire implode, it was on December 25, 1991, that Mikhail Gorbachev resigned as president of the Soviet Union, effectively ending the Soviet Communist Party. The next day the Soviet parliament acknowledged the dissolution of the empire.

What a great and enduring sign! On Christmas day, the very day we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the demonic power ruling the USSR was shaken and toppled from its place!

Will the Lord's final confrontation against the spiritual powers of wickedness be much more significant? Since the fall of Communism, missiologists tell us that more people have come to Christ worldwide than the sum of all conversions since the first century. Of course, Russia still has its problems, but let us not overlook what has happened: a godless, evil power fell from its place of rule. Since then millions of people have come into God's kingdom! (Anyone feel like shouting here?)

Even while the physical world will suffer birth pangs, I believe we are going to see other major "powers in the heavens" come down just as dramatically as the former Soviet Union. I know it is possible that Islamic factions will merge and become stronger, but remember, there are currently millions of Christians praying for Muslims. There are significant breakthroughs. Indeed, Muslims by the millions are opening up to the Gospel and finding Christ as their Savior.

I believe the awakening that has begun in China is going to explode with many more millions coming into the Kingdom of God. India, too, will have a profound awakening. And yes, I believe it is not too late to see major demonic powers fall in the United States.

We are living when, at least on preliminary levels, the "powers of the heavens" are being shaken. Our prayers and compassionate involvement in the affairs of life play a major role in toppling these powers of darkness. 

If we do not quit praying, we will see significant changes unfold before our eyes.

(Photo viaen.wikipedia.org)

Finally, let us remember that, even while things on Earth and in Heaven are being shaken, simultaneously we are receiving "a Kingdom which cannot be shaken" (Hebrews 12:28). Beloved, God has an unshakable Kingdom to which He calls us. It is the place where Jesus rules as King, from which place every knee in Heaven and on Earth shall bow.

Adapted from Francis Frangipane's book, The Days of His Presence which you can order now at: www.elijahshopper.com/The_Days_of_His_Presence_p/bk-ff002.htm

Francis Frangipane
Ministries of Francis Frangipane

Email: francis1@frangipane.org
Website: frangipane.org

Francis Frangipane is the founder of River of Life Ministries in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and has traveled throughout the world ministering to thousands of pastors and intercessors from many backgrounds. Francis' heartfelt prayer is to see established in every city Christlike pastors and intercessors, united before God, revealing the love of Christ to their communities.

Since 1985, he has written fourteen books, plus a number of study booklets. Over the past decades, Francis has served on a number of other ministry boards. However, in recent years he has gradually resigned from these various boards. As of June 2009, he has also retired from his position as senior pastor of River of Life Ministries. In this more simplified life, Frangipane is devoting himself to prayer and the ministry of God's Word.

To subscribe to The Elijah List go to:http://elijahlist.com/subscribe

The Secret to Intimacy With God

Want to receive PowerUP! by email each week? Sign up here

• 

The Secret to Intimacy With God

10/28/2013 FRANCIS FRANGIPANE Charismanews, spirit-led women

21

1

1

45

(Brandon Johnson/creationswap.com)

It is not hard to recognize someone who has spent extended time at a newsstand: His conversation overflows with the drama of current affairs. And it is not hard to discern a person who has come from a sporting event, as his face reveals the outcome of the game. Likewise, people can tell when an individual has spent extended time seeking God. An imperturbable calm guards his heart, and his countenance is radiant with light, as with the morning dew of heaven.

Beloved, to seek and find God is everything. It is to our shame that in our era church services do not focus more on actually seeking God. Yes, we do honor God and thank Him for what He has done. We hear a sermon and perhaps enjoy a time of fellowship with others. Yet only rarely do we depart a congregational meeting with the fire of eternity reflecting off our faces. Instead we fill up with information about God without actually drawing near to Him. Most of us are largely unaware of God’s presence.

While we rightly need church programs, fellowship and times for ministry training, we must not assume that religious indoctrination is the same thing as actually seeking God. And while I am often blessed listening to contemporary Christian music, even godly entertainment is no substitute for my own worship encounter with God.

Therefore let us ask ourselves: Is there a place and a time set apart in our spiritual lives where we can give ourselves to seeking God? What is the Spirit of God actually desired to manifest Himself during our worship service? Would the Lord have to wait until we finished our scheduled program? I respect and recognize the need for order; we need the scheduled times for announcements and the defined purposes that currently occupy Sunday mornings, but have we made room for God Himself?

When we first determine to draw near to God, it may seem we have little to show for our efforts. Yet be assured: Even the thought of seeking God is a step toward our transformation. Still, we often do not notice the early signs of our spiritual renewal—for as we grow increasingly more aware of God, we simultaneously grow increasingly less aware of ourselves. Though we may not see that we are changing, others certainly will.

Consider the experience of Moses. The Lord’s servant had ascended Mount Sinai and there stood before the living God. The eyes of Moses were actually filled with God’s sun-like glory; his ears actually heard the audible sound of the Lord’s voice. Yet when Moses returned to the people, the Bible says he “did not know that the skin of his face shone” (Ex. 34:29). When the Israelites saw the fire of God’s glory on the face of Moses, “they were afraid to come near him” (v. 30). They saw he had been with God.

The church needs more people who have, like Moses, climbed closer to the Almighty—people who have stood in the sacred fire of God’s presence. Instead we exhaust ourselves arguing over peripheral doctrines or styles of music in our song services. Perhaps there are benefits to constantly debating the nuances of our doctrines, but are we not more truly thirsting for the reality of God?

What happens when we seek God? The Bible says at the very moment we are drawing near to Him, the living presence of God Himself is drawing near to us (see James 4:8). Help is coming, redemption for our situation is on its way, strength will soon be arriving, and the powers of healing are activated.

But, we may argue, what if we seek Him and He does not come near? Fear not, He will. He may not manifest as we supposed, but He will come.

Our goal is to—day by day—draw nearer to God. He has commanded that we come boldly to His throne of grace. To receive the help we need, we must arrive at His throne. Remember also that our confidence comes from Christ Himself. He promises, “For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened” (Matt. 7:8).

We are seeking a lifetime of increasing devotion, though it may certainly begin in a season of drawing near. In spite of natural and spiritual obstacles, as we persevere, the Lord assures us, “How much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” (v.11).

If we do not cease seeking and knocking, we will discover unfolding degrees of intimacy with God. Even now, He’s drawing near. The Lord promises, “Everyone who … seeks finds.”

Adapted from I Will Be Found by You by Francis Frangipane, copyright 2013, published by Passio from Charisma House. In forty-three years of seeking after God, the author has learned that it is in seeking God that we actually find Him. This book contains a collection of his best writings on the subject. It will encourage you to pursue the Lord and reap the reward of finding Him. To order your copy click here. 

PRAYER POWER FOR THE WEEK OF 10/28/13

 This week make it a priority to seek God’s transforming presence with worship, meditation and prayer. Set a time and put aside all distractions that would divert your attention away from Him. Let Him speak to you from His Word and thank Him for the promise that if you seek Him you will find Him. Once you’ve spent time enjoying His presence and giving Him worship, expand your prayer to include those who need salvation, revival and provision. Ask Him to direct your steps where you can be a blessing to those in need. Continue to pray for global revival and for more laborers for His harvest fields. Lift up our government leaders and pray that they will seek the Lord’s guidance to govern. Remember Israel and the persecuted church. Matt. 7:7-8; Ps. 9:10

Did you enjoy this blog? Click here to receive it by email.