"The Ministry of Reconciliation" - Cindy Jacobs

"The Ministry of Reconciliation"

Cindy Jacobs, Red Oak, TX

The Elijah List

"For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself, no longer counting people's sins against them. And He gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NLT)

The Body of Christ is awakening to the need for reconciliation. People are beginning to realize that we cannot go on as we have—offended and divided—and still be effective at reaching the lost.

The ministry of reconciliation is carried out on multiple levels. First and foremost will always be the need that each person has to be reconciled to God. God does not want to us to be divided from Him, but rather to experience the fullness of relationship with Him.

Beyond this place of private reconciliation though, we must humbly face the reality that many have not been able to see and experience Christ, in part, because the Body of Christ has not faithfully expressed reconciliation in both word and deed.

Go Be Reconciled to Your Brother

After being reconciled to God, we are called to pursue reconciliation with each other. Matthew 5:23-24 puts it like this:

Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Notice that it doesn't say if you have something against your brother, but rather if he has something against you. We need to seek out those who are offended with us and work to reconcile, forgive and be forgiven.

I'll never forget one time when the Lord impressed upon me that there was something I believed He could not do. At first, I was rather indignant! How could He accuse me of such a thing? Then He softly reminded me of an old broken relationship that I had never worked to mend, and because so much time had passed, I felt it was impossible to fix. He was right! (Of course. He always is!) I did think something was impossible for God. I began to pray, and God mended this long-standing breach.

On a much broader level, I believe God wants to bring reconciliation between the different races represented in the Body of Christ, and the need for this is urgent. 

As one looks around, it isn't hard to discern that there are large walls of separation between the nations or different races of people in the Church. Often, congregations are completely segregated. When a conference is held, there will be little mixture of races. Even large prayer gatherings are usually predominantly one race with very little representation of other races.

How do we get these walls to come down? 

First of all, we have to be willing to acknowledge that they even exist. Second, we need to consider why they exist, even if it means facing some hard truths about our histories and systems. Third, we need to make a concerted effort to rectify the situation. We need to make changes both in word and deed. If we simply talk about what it means to reconcile but do not put it into practice through repentance, it will come to nothing. Most churches would say they agree that reconciliation needs to take place, but many of them don't know how to practically go about reconciling.

The process of racial reconciliation for the Body of Christ needs to occur in at least three primary areas:

1. The Local Church

The local church needs to teach and equip people to reach out to those in their communities who are different from themselves. There may have even been sins committed against a certain people group, either within the church itself or in the community at large.(Photo via pixabay)

One Presbyterian church member told me how her church ran from the inner city so African-American people wouldn't want to become members. They removed themselves to the white suburbs. She shared with me how they felt they needed to go repent to the church in the inner city for their prejudicial attitudes and pride.

There may be members of your church who are Asian, Hispanic or some other race different than what is predominantly represented in the church. 

Ask yourself, "Are we cultivating friendships with these brothers and sisters in the Lord? Have we ever considered someone other than the predominant race to speak or give some kind of input at our church? Are we listening to the needs and experiences of these groups, even if their stories are different from ours?"

2. Church to Church

As a pastor, have you met and fellowshipped with pastors of other races? Have any of them ever been invited to stand in your pulpit? Do you know the needs of their churches, and have you ever prayed together?

Commitment comes out of relationship. Many times it takes one on one meetings together with leadership before Churches can meet together in the Spirit.

Are there any feelings of separation because of living in different sections of the city where racial barriers exist? The church should be the first to tear these walls down. You might need to ask another church if you can visit them on a Sunday to repent of wrong attitudes, evil speaking, sectarianism or prejudice. I have known of some pastors who have knelt before a formerly "rival" church and repented to the whole congregation.

3. Church to Community

In United States history, we have something called the Civil Rights Movement in which Black Americans fought for their rights. Unfortunately, because of racism, the Church as a whole did not stand up and join together with them in their fight. Some even fought against them. (Photo via Wikipedia)

This is a sin of the Church and has caused quite a bit of grief. It is important to repent of this to black leaders in the community and then make a concerted effort to rectify the situation.

Problems of racism which occur over generations in a community cause schisms and pain. In some communities, racial minorities have been refused housing, jobs and other kinds of equal opportunities. Some Hispanic, Asian, or African-American churches have not been able to rent facilities. Stereotyping people of certain races has resulted in segregation from nicer parts of town, which then forced them to go to areas they would not have preferred. It is one thing if this is their choice, but quite another if they are not given a choice.

A study of the history of your community will tell you where these sins have existed and what repentance needs to take place. If these hindrances to reconciliation are not dealt with, I believe we are in for some serious problems in our cities. There is a harnessed rage one feels in many places, not only in the U.S., but in other countries as well.

Racial rioting, such as the ones we've recently experienced in Ferguson and Baltimore, could begin to take place on a much bigger scale and with more frequency if the Church doesn't wake up and actively do something towards healing the division between races. The Church has the only solution – the ministry of reconciliation through the Blood of the Lamb and the name of Jesus.

In many cities satan has a plan to stir up strife and drop the match which will ignite the hatred of the hearts of the oppressed. We must lift up Jesus through repentance, forgiveness and the rectifying of the ancient problems to pour the water of the Holy Spirit upon the nations of the earth. As we come into unity in this manner, the blessing of the Lord will be poured out upon the peoples, and God will heal our land.

Prayer Points:

1. Pray for a spirit of repentance to fall on the Body of Christ over division and offenses that have been allowed to linger.

2. Pray for the Church to humble herself and fully allow the Holy Spirit to search our hearts for areas of division and broken relationships.

3. Pray for a release of supernatural unity and reconciliation.

Cindy Jacobs

Generals International

Email: generals@generals.org
Website: generals.org

Cindy Jacobs is a respected prophet who travels the world, ministering not only to crowds of people but to heads of nations. Her first calling is and always will be prophetic intercession. Each year she travels, and she has spoken on nearly every inhabited continent to tens of thousands. Yet, in her heart is the memory that Jesus left the ninety-and-nine to go to the one. Generals International is an international Church movement, reforming the nations of the world back to a Biblical worldview. They are achieving societal transformation through intercession and the prophetic.

Cindy has authored seven books, loves to travel and speak, but one of her favorite past-times is spending time with her husband Mike and their children Daniel and Mary Madison, along with her five adorable grandchildren.

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THE ANCIENT CHALLENGE (c) Morris E. Ruddick

Morris Ruddick

THE ANCIENT CHALLENGE (c) Morris E. Ruddick At the crux of today's culminating, age-old drama of good against evil have been game-changers, leaders with alliances both from within and outside the community of God's people, whose righteous response to His standard would advance His purposes. This advance has been demonstrated with strategies impacting the infrastructures of culture, economies and power. Yet, the most important elements for historians: God and His chosen people Zion have largely been ignored in recording the story of man. Understanding the times and knowing what to do rest on a realistic grasp of the historic strategies employed by God and His chosen. Abraham established the community model for God's people to live in self-sufficiency, as a people of God. Isaac gleaned the secret of God's economy and supernaturally prospered through God, despite the impact of famine. Joseph demonstrated how stewardship that abides in God's presence can influence the spiritual climate of a society and release God's authority within its infrastructures, to overcome impending evil and to accomplish God's purposes. Moses provided the framework for the Abrahamic model to inoculate itself from the subtle wickedness of the surrounding world and become a society of the righteous, living for God. David demonstrated the leadership response to God's guidance needed to shape a society of diverse factions into a Kingdom of God's people, that would prompt awe for God and His people from all those around them. Jesus raised the bar to the ancient challenge and opened the gates to the authority that governs cultures, economies and power. In so doing He set the Kingdom standard for applying righteous power in a corrupt world. The world has reached just such a flashpoint. A frequent question concerning the calling of modern-day Josephs has been "when will the time of the Josephs manifest?" The answer is the same as it was in the days of Joseph the Patriarch: "When God speaks to Pharaoh." However, the prelude to God speaking to Pharaoh will be shaped by the amassing of prayers and steadfast faith demonstrated by the stewardship of the Josephs. There's a shaking taking place all around us. God is allowing the box to be rattled so that we begin looking outside-the-box instead of at ourselves. The time of Joseph was a time in which God's plan was far bigger than the status quo and the short-sighted religious, ambitious thinking of even God's chosen. So it has been that the role of game-changers has never been limited to the parameters of the "box." With evil coming out of the closet today at unprecedented levels, the challenge, as it has reemerged across the centuries, is for God's people to stand against evil. With that will be the emergence of the leaders, the game-changers, whose influence impacts culture, economies and power to embrace this mandate of the ancient challenge. Read the full article: http://strategicintercession.org/2015/04/the-ancient-challenge/ ___________________________________________________ Morris Ruddick has been a forerunner and spokesman for the call of God in the marketplace since the mid-90s. As founder of Global Initiatives Foundation and designer of the God's Economy Entrepreneurial Equippers Program, Mr. Ruddick imparts hope and equips economic community builders where God's light is dim in both the Western and non-Western world. He is author of "The Joseph-Daniel Calling;" "Gods Economy, Israel and the Nations;" "The Heart of a King;" "Something More;" "Righteous Power in a Corrupt World;" and "Leadership by Anointing," which address the mobilization of business and governmental leaders called to impact their communities with God's blessings. They are available in print and e-versions from www.Amazon.com, www.apple.com/ibooksand www.BarnesandNoble.com. Global Initiatives Foundation (www.strategic-initiatives.org) is a tax-exempt 501 (c) 3 non-profit whose efforts are enabled by the generosity of a remnant of faithful friends and contributors whose vision aligns with God's heart to mobilize the persecuted church to be the head and not the tail. Checks on US banks should be made out to Global Initiatives and mailed to PO Box 370291, Denver CO 80237 or by credit card athttp://strategicintercession.org/support/ Likewise, email us to schedule a seminar for your congregation on the wisdom the persecuted church has for the West or on anointing the creative. 2015 Copyright Morris Ruddick -- sign@strategicintercession.org Reproduction is prohibited unless permission is given by a SIGN advisor. Since early 1996, the Strategic Intercession Global Network (SIGN) has mobilized prophetic intercessors and leaders committed to targeting strategic-level issues impacting the Body on a global basis. For previous posts or more information on SIGN, check:http://www.strategicintercession.org

Morris Ruddick Global Initiatives Foundation www.strategic-initiatives.org www.strategicintercession.org Global Initiatives Foundation is a tax-deductible 501 (c) 3 ministry

THE CREATIVE PATH by Morris E. Ruddick

Morris Ruddick THE CREATIVE PATH (c) Morris E. Ruddick "God thunders with His majestic voice, doing great things which we cannot comprehend. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or power."   Job 37:5, Col 1:16 In God's nature is found a basis from which to think, to act and prioritize the decisions of life. It's a creative path. Moses tapped its parameters. So did Joseph and David and Daniel. For each, it changed everything and made them heroes of faith. Jesus then added substance to this framework and raised the bar. At its foundation is the way of the Kingdom. It begins by knowing the One who is the Creator, the One who transcends time and our limited perspectives of the realities around us. In knowing the Lord, we begin uncovering what we refer to as His truth, His nature and His ways. Then as we discipline ourselves to know Him according to His ways, our thoughts and attitudes begin to be aligned with His. It is THEN that the Lord will allow us into His inner sanctum and expose us to the unlimited dimensions of His nature. The Glory of His Presence Solomon inferred that these unlimited dimensions of God were the stuff of kings (Prov 25:3). No doubt a king's perspective, as Solomon bore the responsibility of spiritually guiding those for whom he was accountable. There's no question that these dimensions of God are beyond the ordinary thresholds of how most people are wired to think and act. Paul described these unlimited facets of His presence as the riches of God's glory. Jesus advanced this reality by admonishing His followers to seek the oneness of abiding -- in Him. In His presence is a glory to be partaken when our interactions with Him are pure. The heart of God desires a people willing to transcend the boundaries of human limitations and in truth, meekness and righteousness (Ps 45:4), to share in these dimensions with Him. In approaching these boundless dimensions of His nature, there is a pathway that uncovers, engenders and releases the creative. Discerning the voice of the Lord is the gateway. This gateway leads to the discovery of much more. In heeding his call as prophet, Isaiah was given an assignment that addressed the dullness and desolation that results from NOT hearing the voice of the Lord (Isa 6:9). Isaiah went on to make it plain that God's ways are simply higher than ours and beyond our normal comprehension (Isa 55:9). Similarly, God's nature is to bring increase. From God's promise to Abraham for descendents beyond his ability to number, to Jesus' parable of the talents, God's expectation for good stewards is in bringing increase. As God's very nature is creative, with His Spirit within us, we have the means to go beyond the boundaries of our human limitations and what we, in the natural, perceive and "know." When our way is stymied, one God-thought can be the release. New Mind-Sets With God at the center, this unfolding path holds the potential of being illuminated by our mind-sets, the way we think. While the precepts of men tends to impede progress, the way of the Kingdom, facilitates release. The Catalyst of Vision. When God told Abraham to gaze at the heavens, telling him his descendents would be as numerous as the stars, He was casting vision. He had already told Abraham that He was Abraham's shield, his exceeding great reward. He wanted Abraham to visualize that His promises far exceeded Abraham's ability to grasp them. Abraham's response was to believe God which pleased God greatly. The faith-response of vision is the igniter to bringing that which is not into being, of creating something out of nothing, through God. Investigative-Approach. Proverbs suggests that the prudent man is cautious and considers well his steps (Prov 14:15). That caution is not in believing God, but in the steps that need to be taken. That suggests diligence in doing our homework. It means that there is wisdom in asking questions and investigating a matter thoroughly, as there will always be something hidden or not obvious to be uncovered and considered. That's why it's important to ask the right questions and push the envelope in considering alternatives. Imagination. There is an untapped potential triggered by our imaginations. Imagining is the ability to form new images and concepts in our minds. Our imaginations actuate the bridge between the natural and spiritual worlds, between vision and reality. With faith in God, it carries untapped potential. Jesus noted that one can be guilty of negative things entertained in their imaginations. Likewise, one's imagination gives shape to their vision. It's a vital ingredient for acting in faith. The Process of Planning. Planning and goal-setting is a means of identifying the steps needed to bring vision into reality. It is a process of evaluating the response to alternatives. Planning is continuous. It is a process of evaluating things that recognizes there is always something more. Cooperative planning with the Holy Spirit gives the Lord opportunity to add that expanded dimension of His thoughts into the process of establishing vision, goals and strategies. Strategy. Good strategy is the purpose of good planning. Mapping out the steps for the pathway gives shape to maximizing opportunity and bringing increase. While good strategy is sought, the higher dimensions of God's nature elevate the standard much more than just good ideas. The need is the prophetic dimensions of God-ideas. This is what set Joseph apart in the eyes of Pharaoh and resulted in his promotion. Joseph did more than just accurately interpret Pharaoh's dreams. He mapped out a strategy. Pharaoh recognized the prophetic wisdom resident within Joseph as coming from God. Excellence. Daniel was described as ten times better than any of the advisors of the king's court around him. Excellence involves becoming expert in something, to the degree that whatever the developed gift, it goes beyond that of the standard held by most others. The Strategy of Faith and Prayer Whereas wisdom is the application of God's principles, creativity is the discovery and application of bringing the invisible world into the visible one. God's strategy to bring this about is through faith and prayer. New mind-sets represent a way of viewing things and problem solving. The process of employing these factors generates insights that lead to creative discovery. That's how it operates on an individual level. Yet, God's design for biblical community is the value-added of the creative dynamic available through God. It represents a safe-place fostering these higher dimensions of God. Incorporated in its design is to build from generation to generation. It demonstrates the reality of God through a people. It utilizes a model dating back to Abraham. From age to age, biblical community has engendered consistent success despite adversities and backlash that God's chosen have experienced from the very different, but dominant cultures of which they have been a part. There are specific factors bearing on the strategy of community with which this pathway operates. The Strategy of Community Over the millennia the Jewish people not only have succeeded in retaining their cultural identity, but with disproportionate achievement have served as catalysts and influencers to the civilizations that would rise and fall around them, like the Greeks, the Romans, the Assyrians, the Ottomans, the Babylonians and on and on. Historically, in civilizations without a middle class, the Jewish people have served that function, as merchants and bankers and people of business. They have been advisors to kings, rulers and leaders and financed national agendas in the societies in which they lived. Yet, as a people, Jews have been distinctive. As a people, they have released nuggets of wisdom from the roots of their faith-culture that have impacted the foundations: economically, governmentally, judicially, and morally, for what is now considered as the good and enduring virtues of Western civilization. Today, despite being only .25 percent of the world's population, since 1950, Jews have been the recipients of 27 percent of the Nobel prizes awarded. Studies such as "The Golden Age of Jewish Achievement" and "Startup Nation" attest to their contributions, which statisticians would view as "beyond chance expectation." In short, the means by which Jews have tapped the creative has resulted in them outliving, as a people, the civilizations of which they have been a part. Pertinent Ancient Wisdom Identity. At the foundation of Jewish culture is their identity. They hold to the belief of being a prophetic people of God whose ways were outlined by Moses, the prophets and their forefather Abraham, as they have been blessed to be a blessing. They have resisted assimilation as, from age to age, they have maintained their unique identity as a culture within a culture. Entrepreneurship. True entrepreneurship is by definition creative. Nurturing entrepreneurship changes the status quo and provokes opportunity. It fosters a creativity that builds from the bottom up. Former Cambridge professor, entrepreneurial expert and author, Bill Bolton (with John Thompson, "Entrepreneurs, Talent, Temperament, Technique"), stresses the importance of the creative and innovative dimensions which drive economic opportunity and the dynamic of entrepreneurship. Trust Society. From the days of Moses, Jewish beliefs nurture the dynamic of community as much or more than any other culture; but with the approach of being a trust society. A highly respected social economist has uncovered some unique insights into these issues in his examination of economies and cultures in "Trust: Social Virtues and the Creation of Prosperity." Francis Fukuyama contends that social capital is as important as physical capital. Yet, only societies with a high degree of social trust will create the foundations needed for the large-scale business organizations that compete in today's global economy. However, large-scale organizations are only a part of the equation as enduring prosperity for community flows first from the bottom-up entrepreneurially. Opportunity Enablers. Within the Jewish community, there is a nurturing that is the natural order of things. The more successful advise those entering new arenas. The older, more experienced help those who are younger. Mentoring benefits all as the diversity of gifts blend together for the common good and opportunity is enabled. Self-Sufficiency. Within this context, when adhering to these standards, the Jewish people operate in a self-regulated, self-sufficiency within their communities. They nurture the type of stewardship that serves and reflects excellence. Their forefather Abraham began his adventurous sojourn with God by being told that as God blessed him, that through his descendents, then that blessing of God would be extended to all the families of the earth. That requires a unique form of leadership. Leadership. The Jewish brand of leadership has the distinction of operating best through influence and service. As a people, Jews are disciplined and are willing to pay the cost to live for a higher standard, to sacrifice for the future of their people. Moral Standards. Jews as a people of God uphold a high moral standard as a society. Their distinctive identity upholds the standards of community, entrepreneurship, innovation, excellence and industriousness that are central to their heritage. While the Jewish people have had their share of centuries as a conquered people, they have never lost their foundations culturally that have made them unique and strong. The Higher Dimensions All of this dovetails into a framework, individually and community-wise, that has set a standard for living within the reality of God's nature. It is a creative path that carries the expectation of good and of higher dimensions. Yet, the status quo is the enemy of these higher, creative dimensions in God. As Hebrews 11 sums up the exploits of the heroes of faith, it concludes with a most unusual, but insightful statement. It says that apart from us, they who have preceded us would not be made perfect. This truth works both ways, as we progressively build upon the foundations laid by previous generations. When Solomon notes that God has put eternity in our hearts, it gives glimpse to the unspoken, insatiable quest to reach beyond the visible and to discover and apply the pieces that are lacking. Hebrews 12 begins with the dramatic picture of the great cloud of witnesses, beyond time, surrounding us and the strong admonition to press through and not be entrapped by the encumbrances designed to seduce and hold back. Jesus said: "He who loves his life will lose it, but he who hates his life in this world will gain it." There is a place in God that far outweighs the best this world has to offer. It is in the dimensions of God beyond ourselves that the creative and true life resides. Moses mapped out the starting point: "All these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, when you obey the voice of the Lord your God." (Deut 28:1) This speaks to the priority that Jesus punctuated, that you don't seek after the things of this world, you seek after God and His Kingdom dimensions (Matt 6:33). When you seek after God, then those things we refer to as blessings will follow after us, amass and come upon us. The creative path of discovery is one that has a parallel in embracing His glory. It explains how a member of one generation can be influenced by dimensions from their spiritual heritage in deeply penetrating something in the both the natural and spiritual realms. Yet, the higher dimension that taps His power, like that of Joshua when the sun and moon stood still, resides in a foundation of knowing Him. It is a gift drawn from His presence, of abiding in Him, which impacts the way we view things and make decisions. That gift grows from a way of thinking to an anointing that serves in developing and applying our mantle in life. In prevailing, it will transcend the natural and uncover significant matters not normally visible. It evolves as a process as the natural begins tapping the supernatural. It's a process for all times, but especially for what lies before us. We are entering a time unlike any that has preceded us. It will be a time of progressive, higher dimensions unfolding in a single generation. It will be a time of new things with the creative on the forefront. The strategy of prayer and faith and the strategy of community will be bedrock. "The Spirit of the Lord rests upon me, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord." Isa 11:2 ___________________________________________________ Morris Ruddick has been a forerunner and spokesman for the call of God in the marketplace since the mid-90s. As founder of Global Initiatives Foundation and designer of the God's Economy Entrepreneurial Equippers Program, Mr. Ruddick imparts hope and equips economic community builders where God's light is dim in both the Western and non-Western world. He is author of "The Joseph-Daniel Calling;" "Gods Economy, Israel and the Nations;" "The Heart of a King;" "Something More;" "Righteous Power in a Corrupt World;" and "Leadership by Anointing," which address the mobilization of business and governmental leaders called to impact their communities with God's blessings. They are available in print and e-versions from www.Amazon.com, www.BarnesandNoble.com and other popular outlets. Global Initiatives Foundation (www.strategic-initiatives.org) is a tax-exempt 501 (c) 3 non-profit whose efforts are enabled by the generosity of a remnant of faithful friends and contributors whose vision aligns with God's heart to mobilize the persecuted church to be the head and not the tail. Checks on US banks should be made out to Global Initiatives and mailed to PO Box 370291, Denver CO 80237 or by credit card atsign@strategicintercession.org Likewise, email us to schedule a seminar for your congregation on the wisdom the persecuted church has for the West or on anointing the creative. 2015 Copyright Morris Ruddick -- sign@strategicintercession.org Reproduction is prohibited unless permission is given by a SIGN advisor. Since early 1996, the Strategic Intercession Global Network (SIGN) has mobilized prophetic intercessors and leaders committed to targeting strategic-level issues impacting the Body on a global basis. For previous posts or more information on SIGN, check:http://www.strategicintercession.org

Morris Ruddick Global Initiatives Foundation www.strategic-initiatives.org www.strategicintercession.org

6 Reasons You Should Never Give Up on Church - J. LEE GRADY

6 Reasons You Should Never Give Up on Church

 2/11/2015 J. LEE GRADY charisma news

Have you simply given up on church? (iStock photo)

I've experienced heaven on earth the past few days. I found it in Durban, South Africa, while visiting one of the most joy-filled congregations I've ever encountered in my travels.

It's called His Church, and this 1,000-member multicultural church has many wonderful qualities: a loving pastor (a brave woman, Fiona Des Fontaine) who is committed to preaching God's Word without compromise; a powerful outreach to the community; a healthy team of pastors who serve with no signs of competition or ego; and a Bible college where many young leaders are being trained.

I know there are many churches around the world today that have qualities similar to His Church. Yet many Christians—especially in the United States—are giving up on church because they were hurt by pastors or wounded by other Christians, or because they simply decided to "go it alone." They are knows as "dones"—people who are "done" with church.

"Dones" might watch an occasional church service on television or meet with a few Christian friends over coffee for a casual Starbucks version of "church lite." They still consider themselves serious Christians, but they want nothing more of pastors, tithing, scheduled meetings or church drama.

If you or someone you love has given up on church, I'm not here to condemn you. I've had my share of disappointments in church over the years, including some spiritual abuse. But I want to offer six reasons why you shouldn't let a bad experience end your connection to God's people.

1. The church is Christ's body on earth. With all its flaws, the church is still God's Plan A. Jesus announced before He went to the cross: "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it" (Matt. 16:18). Jesus intends to use the church—even in its weakness—as His primary tool to reach the world with the gospel. Heaven does not have a Plan B. Jesus is the head of his church (see Col. 1:18) and we are His hands and feet. To reject the church is to reject God's ultimate strategy to bring heaven's kingdom on earth.

2. The Holy Spirit has called us to work and flow together. When we were born again and baptized, the Bible says we were mystically unified with all other born-again believers and connected to each other by the Holy Spirit. The Lord also connects people in local congregations. This connection is holy and we should never make light of it or damage it. Paul told the Ephesians to "preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" by being in close fellowship with each other (Eph. 4:3). To reject this union of believers is to dishonor the work of the Spirit.

3. God accomplishes more through His corporate people than through isolated individuals. In the Old Testament the Holy Spirit worked primarily through the nation of Israel, and through individuals who had special callings and remarkable courage. But in the age of the New Covenant, the Spirit dwells in every Christian believer, and the corporate church makes a much bigger impact. This is why Jesus told His disciples after He went to the cross that we would do "greater works" than He did on earth (see John 14:12). And because healthy churches can pool resources and organize volunteers, they are able to offer ministry to children, youth, families, singles, the needy and the lost overseas—in a way you could never do while sitting home alone.

4. God's authority flows through His church, not through "lone ranger" Christians. Some people who've been hurt by church leaders feel they can never submit to another pastor again, nor will they honor a person who is called by God to carry the authority of a minister. Yet God has delegated to certain people the task of building up the church (see Eph. 4:11-12). It's totally acceptable for you to leave an unhealthy church with poor leadership, but you should quickly find a new church where you can be equipped to fulfill your ministry. It was never intended for a Christian to live with a my-way-or-the-highway attitude.

5. It is by living in Christian community that we learn to love and serve. The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of Jewish Christians who were thinking of abandoning their Christian faith because of persecution. Some of them even stopped attending church, but Paul addressed their disillusionment by saying: "And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another, especially as you see the Day approaching" (Heb. 10:24-25). People who live in isolation find it difficult to develop character, and they often get discouraged; those who walk together in close fellowship inspire each other, and they improve each other just as iron sharpens iron.

6. If you leave the church because of hurt or resentment, you make it more difficult to find healing and reconciliation. It might sound spiritual to say you are pulling away from people to focus on God. But the New Testament says your relationship with God is directly related to how you relate to others. John wrote: "Anyone who claims to live in God's light and hates a brother or sister is still in the dark" (1 John 2:9, MSG). People may have hurt you, but God will also use people to heal you. Don't let the hurts of the past paint you into a lonely corner. Choose to forgive. Take a risk and keep loving.

Please don't check out of church or give up on God's flawed saints. There is no perfect church—and if there were, it would not be perfect after you joined! There is a place for you in God's eternal family.

J. Lee Grady is the former editor of Charisma. You can follow him on Twitter@leegrady. He is the author of several books including his latest, The Truth Sets Women Free (Charisma House.) You can learn more about his ministry, The Mordecai Project, at themordecaiproject.org.

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FEAR OF GOD (c) Morris Ruddick (SIGN)

FEAR OF GOD (c) Morris Ruddick    "Teach me your ways O Lord and I will walk in Your truth. Unite my heart to fear Your Name." Psalm 86:11 During a recent mission to Benin, West Africa, we attended a traditional African Church wedding. It was a three hour service, unlike any wedding ceremony we have ever experienced in the West. The couple was exhorted on the foundations of their new relationship: in love, humility AND the fear of the Lord. However, not only did the bride and groom take their vows of marriage, but the parents took vows to uphold the new relationship, in the fear of the Lord. Likewise, an older woman, a widow, considered wise in her ways was assigned to mentor the new wife during the first year of the marriage. There was more, but the thrust was that this new marriage became a responsibility of the community. I later learned that this community, despite the odds during a major time of change, has not had one divorce in more than three decades. Facing Times of Change For four decades, I have wielded a mantle in both business and ministry as a Kingdom marketplace pioneer. Repeatedly, this has involved assignments with those going through a significant time of change. Those I have served have ranged from ministries like CBN and Morris Cerullo to numerous well-known multinationals. Working with individuals as well as with organizations, when change is underway and something new is being birthed, can take you into uncharted territory. It demands a hard look at what has been the mode of the past, in order to get the fix for the change required to embrace the future. It requires wisdom, flexibility and innovation. For God's people, the fear of the Lord and humility are critical to entering times of change. Where leadership is involved, it will also involve honor. These factors are also at the heart of the igniters for those hungering for more of God, to see the consciousness of His presence manifest in genuine revival. Facing change involves the need to prepare and to be prepared. The fear of the Lord is at the root of this ongoing need to prepare. It's the core to walking out a call of God. Walking with the Lord is progressive. It will always involve new dimensions. From the Start Proverbs tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Yet, the fear of God is neither a gift nor a fruit of the Spirit, but a continuous choice foundational to our faith and bedrock to spiritual maturity and the knowledge of God. Too often confused with self-control or a hyper-religious spirit, the fear of God is strengthened by the choices found only in a dimension "beyond ourselves." Over time, the hard choices become predispositions and a part of who we become in Him. It was in late 1973, as a relatively young believer, that I left a military career to prepare for ministry at a Christian university. It was during those early days of walking with the Lord, that I first encountered the stiff realities of spiritual warfare with the death of one of our children. It was a shattering jolt. It challenged everything that lay before us in walking out our call of God. Facing that reality left very little to lean on, other than the fear of the Lord. Friends offered words of comfort, yet very few actually achieved their intent. The only real comfort came from pressing through in prayer and God's presence. From that time before the Lord, I sent a note to our closest friends. It expressed our choice, to trust the Lord. The focus of that note was from the response of Job in losing all that he had, including his children. In humility, Job fell on his face before God in repentance and worship. "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." Job 1:21 Walking out a call of God is a progressive thing. The comforts of this world entice, seduce and divide the mind. God had a higher dimension, something more, for Job. Job was a man God loved. He did all the right things. Job was successful. He was a leader in the community. He was respected and honored by everyone in the area. Yet, Job fell short. In a day in time, everything changed for him. His losses included the honor that had come from his accomplishments. Job is a story of a dimension in God -- that cannot be short-circuited -- and the pathway to the protection and honor that only God can supply. For Job to accomplish his destiny, he needed something more than the results of his own efforts. So it was that he went through a humbling that led to a new revelation of the Lord -- and his knowledge of Him. Job learned that it is not what we can do for God. It is what we allow God to do through us. The subtle difference of this truth is distinguished by the fear of God. When Job received the revelation that brought a much greater depth to his fear of God, not only was everything restored, but it was restored double. That included his receiving the honor that comes only to those who unequivocally fear the Lord. The Standard Psalm 15 is short, but pithy. It represents the standard for walking out a call of God. It is the standard for godly leadership and enduring relationships. It is the standard for protection in times of crisis, as well as the standard for revival. Psalm 15 begins with the question of who is it who can abide and walk with God. It answers that it is the one who walks with integrity and works righteousness. Catch the phrase "WORKS righteousness." Righteousness here is referring to the Hebrew word "tz'dakah" which more correctly translated means righteous charity, a response to being a part of a community. It is something you do. It reflects being a doer of the Word. This psalm goes on to describe the one who speaks truth within his own heart. Embracing truth and making it a part of one's life begins in the heart -- the undivided heart. It describes a person who is true to their word and can be trusted. It goes on to say that the one who lives this standard does not slander nor exhibit any evil toward his neighbor. It continues by noting that worldly success is not the standard. The one who has fallen into the trap of becoming a reprobate -- of compromising -- is worthy of being despised. However, those who FEAR THE LORD are to be HONORED. It mentions not taking advantage of the less fortunate, by charging interest or accepting a bribe against them. This psalm then concludes by proclaiming that those whose lives reflect these things will never be shaken. At the foundation of the fear of the Lord are the components of humility and honor. The fear of God has many counterfeits designed to deceive even the elect. They range from pride, to idols in one's mind, to self-satisfaction, self-righteousness and self-justification, to the illusions that result from being double-minded. Only through humility and fear of the Lord will come the fullness of one's destiny in God. "By humility and fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life." Prov 22:4 Preparing for New Dimensions In the opening scripture, the Psalmist reveals something very subtle for the one who seeks to walk in the ways of God. It involves a united heart. That means priority given to time spent with God, time seeking His heart. Embracing oneness with God's heart also requires a united heart. That applies to both individuals and the body-corporate. Moreover, to release revival requires a united heart within the community of God's people. Twice the book of James taps the observation of the "double-minded." In the first reference not only does the divided-mind not receive from God, it is described as unstable (James 1:8). In the second case (James 4:8), it lumps the double-minded together with sinners, with the admonition that heart-purification is needed for those whose attitudes and priorities are on both sides of the fence. "Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded." James 4:7-8 The purification needed from the snares of double-mindedness, more often than not will call for a strong dose of repentance and humility. "Lament, mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up." James 4:9 To the Finish So, while the fear of the Lord is what lays the foundation for knowing the ways of God, it is also the thread of preparedness and maturity defining a stable and purposeful walk with Him. It is the factor that enables the finish to go well. As was seen with the African community, it is the glue for unity and stability. It establishes the wall of fire, the equalizer and protection for God's people that has no parallel. It is the standard for enduring relationships, along with being the crux for God's criterion for leadership. Even more so, the fear of the Lord is bedrock for times of crisis and the igniter for what we describe as revival. Carol and I came to faith during the vibrant days of the Jesus Movement. It was a time of great spiritual hunger that crossed the boundaries of sectarianism. It was a time of God's presence when people gathered together just to pray and seek God. So it has been with those we work with in the persecuted church.  The priority is God. Many of their leaders have had their faith forged in hard-labor prisons. They fear God more than what man can do to them. Their minds are focused and united. The double-minded, the masters of technique bypassing this critical dimension are fast to fall in this spiritual environment. The reality of God is gaining critical mass. "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." Acts 4:19-20 The world is looking for the reality of God being demonstrated -- through His people. We've entered a time Jesus referred to in Matthew 24 as the "beginning of sorrows." It is approaching a time noted in Luke 21 when men's hearts will fail due to fear.  The determining factor for what's needed will not be a perfect doctrine, eloquent sermons or some super-elite band of hyper-religious. Nothing short of God's presence and power will suffice. The fear Jesus spoke of in Matthew 24 and Luke 21 is totally different from the fear of God. It is the response of those whose hearts do not know God and those whose hearts are divided toward him. Before his ordeal, Job knew God and His ways, in his head. When he emerged, he truly knew God and his ways in his heart. The united heart changes everything. "I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes." Job 42:5-6 Critical Mass God has called those known by His Name to be standard-bearers and agents of change. In today's chaotic and turbulent world, this task is going to take something more. We are to actuate a new dimension, the spiritual climate that establishes God's Kingdom rule. The crucible to release God's presence and power is us. The antidote for the fear that causes hearts to fail is the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is the awe, the reverence and total trust in the One who created the world and all who live in it. It is the oneness with Him whose Glory exceeds any dimension this world can offer. It is the humility that accepts the provision of His Truth with the honor due to His Name. It recognizes that, even with our best efforts, we fall short. His ways, His goodness, His wisdom are simply higher than our ways. He is the all-sufficient One. "He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory, but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him." John 7:18-19 The response, which will evolve into critical mass to be the catalyst, is the fear of the Lord, demonstrated through a people. So it has been in the history of every revival, every move of God since the first-century church. When the fear of God reaches critical mass among the community of God's people, amazing, supernatural things start taking place. A genuine fear of God hungers for more of His presence. It produces steadfast prayer. Indefatigable prayer distinguished great revivalists such as John Wesley and Charles Finney, as well as moves of God such as the Moravians. It will be no different in this hour. The Community Responsibility Whether the purpose is fostering enduring relationships, establishing the standard for leadership, responding to times of change or crisis, or in serving as a catalyst for revival, the community of God's people is instrumental. The responsibility undertaken by the African community to nurture the commitments of their newlyweds represents a significant example for our response to the times. The community of God's people is ultimately responsible for the infrastructure, preparedness and response needed to take God's people from one generation to another, in God. "Keep your soul diligently so that you do not forget the things that your eyes have seen and they do not depart from your heart. Make them known to your children and your children's children." Deut 4:9 For three years, Jesus mentored his disciples. He unveiled God's ways so that they might truly know Him. Declaring that He was the way, the truth and the life, He opened the gates to release Kingdom power through His victory over death. He imparted the priorities of God's heart. At the core of preparing this small band of those to whom He would entrust His mantle, was the fear of God. Once that took place, a change took place in His response to them. No longer did He refer to them as servants, but as friends. He had prepared them for change and once they got it, with a united heart and the fear of the Lord, He released them into their destiny. "No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends." John 15:15 ___________________________________________________ Morris Ruddick has been a forerunner and spokesman for the call of God in the marketplace since the mid-90s. As founder of Global Initiatives Foundation and designer of the God's Economy Entrepreneurial Equippers Program, Mr. Ruddick imparts hope and equips economic community builders where God's light is dim in both the Western and non-Western world. He is author of "The Joseph-Daniel Calling;" "Gods Economy, Israel and the Nations;" "The Heart of a King;" "Something More;" "Righteous Power in a Corrupt World;" and "Leadership by Anointing," which address the mobilization of business and governmental leaders called to impact their communities with God's blessings. They are available in print and e-versions from www.Amazon.com,www.BarnesandNoble.com and other popular outlets. Global Initiatives Foundation (www.strategic-initiatives.org) is a tax-exempt 501 (c) 3 non-profit whose efforts are enabled by the generosity of a remnant of faithful friends and contributors whose vision aligns with God's heart to mobilize the persecuted church to be the head and not the tail. Checks on US banks should be made out to Global Initiatives and mailed to PO Box 370291, Denver CO 80237 or email us atsign@strategicintercession.org for access information on our secure web-site. Likewise, email us to schedule a seminar for your congregation on the wisdom the persecuted church has for the times emerging in the West.  2014 Copyright Morris Ruddick - sign@strategicintercession.org Reproduction is prohibited unless permission is given by a SIGN advisor. Since 1996, the Strategic Intercession Global Network (SIGN) has mobilized prophetic intercessors and leaders committed to targeting strategic-level issues impacting the Body on a global basis. For previous posts or more information on SIGN, check: http://www.strategicintercession.org

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