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Never say ”I’ve Lost my Peace.”

Posted on 02/21/2025 | Comments Off on Never say ”I’ve Lost my Peace.”

Have you ever heard or used the phrase “I have lost my peace?” I have, and I have used it many times, but recently, the Lord corrected me in prayer about it.

I was feeling a little uncomfortable about a decision I had made, I had that yucky, scratchy, agitated feeling in my Spirit that I recognized from past experiences. I brought it to the Lord and said, Father, I think I made a bad decision here, I have lost my peace about it so what would you have me do?

The first thing He said was “Stop saying “I lost my Peace.” That uneasy feeling you are experiencing is My Peace communicating to with you and guiding you into right decisions, keeping you on the path of life.”

I was shocked because I had been speaking and praying this way for years. I was reminded of John 14.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Peace isn’t something we can lose if we are a disciple of Christ. Peace is to be our arbitrator in our decision-making process.  

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.

Where I missed it, and why I felt like I had lost my Peace is because I didn’t pray about it beforehand. I didn’t ask the Lord for directions or permission; I simply made the decision on my own and that was a huge mistake. I was stuck with my decision because it involved commitment to other people, so I had to follow through and keep my word. Keeping that commitment took months to fulfill and I was miserable the whole time. There was no grace, no lasting fruit, and seemingly no anointing the whole time I was faithful to my commitment. Boy, did I learn my lesson!

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.

If we are not our own, then every decision we make must be cleared with the One who owns us. He paid for that right by the precious blood of Christ. I never want to be involved in or committed to anything that God has not called me to and led me to.

On another note, I have found that many decisions we bring before the Lord, He tells us to make the choice because He enjoys walking out those decisions with us in relationship. However, if we don’t ask Him beforehand, we could make a wrong choice that costs us dearly.

We have a wonderful promise in the book of Philippians that teaches us much about maintaining Peace and keeping our purity before the Lord.

Philippians 4:6-9 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

If we practice this one passage of scripture, we will avoid many unnecessary mistakes, avoid bad decisions, and increase God’s involvement and ministering angel’s involvement in our lives.

Immersing ourselves in prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving, we open our hearts and minds to the divine wisdom that surpasses all earthly understanding. As we meditate on what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, we cultivate a life that is not only pleasing to God but also filled with His Spirit. We glorify God when we pray and ask before reacting and making decisions. In doing so, we will experience the fullness of His Peace, presence, and purpose in our lives.

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Complaining is a Cancer

Posted on 02/12/2025 | Comments Off on Complaining is a Cancer

Few actions reveal what is in our hearts more vividly than our responses to life’s challenges. One such response, often underestimated in its destructive power, is complaining. While it may seem like a minor venting of frustration, the Bible illuminates a far more serious spiritual consequence tied to this behavior. In the scriptures, complaining is not merely frowned upon; it is equated with profound acts of rebellion and ingratitude toward God’s sovereignty. We need to recognize its true nature and spiritual implications.

1 Corinthians 10:6-11 Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. 7 And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” 8 Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; 9 nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; 10 nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.

Notice that complaining is comparable to lust, idolatry, and sexual immorality. In verse 9 the Israelites tempted Christ and were destroyed by serpents. (Numbers 21:6) The temptation was their complaining about the manna that God provided daily, which He gave them to begin with because of their complaining. (Exodus 16:8)

In verse 10 we see that some were destroyed by the destroyer for their complaining. Complaining is an abomination to the Lord.

Complaining communicates to the Lord, “I don’t like what You are doing and how You are doing it, and if I were you, I would do it differently.” Complaining is insubordination against the Lord’s authority. It is irreverent and shows we are faithless and not living in the fear of the Lord. Consider what Philippians 2 says.

Philippians 2:14-15 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,

Complaining is a dead giveaway that it’s all about us. What we want, what we think, what we feel, what we believe, our rights, and our opinions. Grumbling and complaining means that we are self-seeking and this leads to bitterness.

“The smallest and most dangerous world we can live in is the one we are the center of.”

James 3:14-16 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 

This passage tells us that complaining is demonic and produces confusion and every evil work. Grumbling and complaining make us a landing pad for demonic activity.

The Bible provides a clear and stern warning against the act of complaining. It is not merely a harmless habit but a profound expression of ingratitude, unbelief, and rebellion against God’s sovereign will. We must eliminate it from our lives. We can do this by abiding in the scriptures, renewing our minds to God’s word, and cultivating a spirit of thankfulness and humility.

Complaining is far more detrimental than it may initially seem. It is defiance against God’s provision and authority, stemming from a heart of ingratitude and self-centeredness.

Complaining is a cancer in the body of Christ. It always has been. It is contagious, infectious, and deadly. Unfortunately, it has become commonplace in our culture and the world is full of self-righteous, self-important, self-seeking, entitled people who grumble and complain constantly. From such people turn away.

James 5:9 Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! 

JESUS IS COMING!

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Love, Hospitality, and Stewardship. Understanding 1 Peter 4:7-11

Posted on 12/30/2024 | Comments Off on Love, Hospitality, and Stewardship. Understanding 1 Peter 4:7-11

1 Peter 4:7-11 (NKJV) But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

I love this passage of scripture!

vs. 7- “The end of ALL THINGS is at hand;” Do you see that? Do you believe it?

This statement should shock us considering our world and that this was written 2000 years ago. We are closer to the end than ever, so we MUST BE “serious and watchful in our prayers.”

I think we all know how to be serious when we pray but do you know how to be watchful while praying? Are you rattling off a laundry list of needs, talking to someone you can’t see so you never actually expect God to talk back? Are you entering into prayer with an expectation of conversation and interaction and watching for how God responds to you?

Vs. 8- “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 

We know how love behaves and how love responds according to 1 Cor 13.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails….

To be fervent in love we must intentionally control how we behave and respond to others, denying our fleshly responses and allowing the Holy Spirit to minister the life of God through us. We must realize we are representing our Lord Jesus Christ. As we practice this we are transformed into the living Word that saves us.  

To love fervently and consistently we must pursue intimacy with the Father through prayer and the written word of God. We are only capable of loving others to the degree we can receive and understand the Father’s love. As we wash ourselves with His holy Word His love is revealed and understood, increasing our capacity to love others. The fruit of who God is begins to pour forth from your life.

vs. 9- “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.

Being hospitable is easy, but can you do it without complaining about how hard it is? Or why don’t more people help you? Can you work with others who challenge your patience or have abrasive personalities and do it without speaking negatively about the experience?

vs. 10- As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

What are your graces? Did you know that grace is a way God equips you? It gives you the supernatural ability to find and fulfill your purpose on Earth. When we minister our grace to others it helps equip them to do the same.

What are you naturally good at? What are the first things you think about when trying to help people? What do you love to do that involves other people? What is the first thing you think about when praying for others? These are all questions that can help find your primary grace or graces.

We are to steward God’s grace, sharing our strengths and abilities by ministering to others. As we engage in this community exchange, we become a living expression of God. This expression is far more than just the sum of its parts. What seemed a natural ability transforms when joined with others of like faith. It becomes a supernatural expression of God’s love and goodness.

vs. 11- If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Verse 11 reminds us that it is not about us, but Christ and others. We should never be prideful or arrogant about our God-given gifts and abilities. What we have that is good came from Him. What we do, we do for Him and others.

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Praying in the Spirit Understood

Posted on 04/10/2023 | Comments Off on Praying in the Spirit Understood

One of the greatest tragedies in the Church is the confusion we have about the Holy Spirit. Even among groups that emphasize the Holy Spirit and His role in the Church, we see different beliefs, expressions, and practices, many of which are contradictory.

The Bible shows the mishandling of holy things brings serious consequences. How much more severe is it when we have the Holy Spirit of God living inside us?

It is essential that we rightly divide truth concerning the Holy Spirit.

In this lesson, we will address the practice of praying in the Spirit and define what exactly praying in the Spirit is. While some limit praying in the Spirit to praying only God’s written word, others say that praying in the Spirit is only praying with other tongues. Still, others reject praying with other tongues altogether. Our lack of agreement reveals our overall lack of understanding.

Effective spiritual warfare requires an understanding of praying in the Spirit, so let’s bring clarity to this from God’s word.

          We must first understand that praying in the Spirit is any prayer under the inspiration and direction of the Holy Spirit. Look at our instruction in Ephesians.

Ephesians 6:18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,

Our instruction is that all prayer and supplication are to be done “in the Spirit.” The prayer of salvation, prayers of sanctification, prayers of dedication, prayers of intercession, prayers of repentance, the prayer of faith, prayers of thanksgiving, and yes, praying with other tongues. They are all to be prayed “in the Spirit.” Supplications are specific requests. They are also to be prayed in the Spirit. So, what does that look like?

Everything God does is relational. Many of us have allowed our prayer life to become mechanical and lifeless, not relational at all, just religious and dead. We run through a prayer list and read our daily devotional, never spending time in silent reverence so we can connect with the one we are talking to. Having a daily devotional is commendable. Having a daily devotional and never actually connecting intimately with your Father is tragic. Praying in the Spirit requires communion, not just conversation.

com·mun·ion – the sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, especially when the exchange is on a mental or spiritual level.

If all we do is pray from our limited thinking, our prayer life will lack the authority to bear much fruit. I am not saying that praying with our natural understanding is wrong, but let this be a launching point, a positioning of the heart and mind to a place of stillness and quiet so we can be receptive to the influence of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians makes it clear that we need both.

1 Corinthians 14:15 (NKJV)What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.

Praying should be viewed as a partnership. It starts with natural understanding, but as we approach God, coming into step with the Spirit to partner with Him, we should expect supernatural utterances to come from our lips. Praying in the Spirit requires us to connect our thoughts and attention to the Holy Spirit inside us, praying out and praying into what rises in our hearts. Spirit-led prayer requires dependence upon His leading and a willingness to follow even when it doesn’t seem to make sense.

Although we are to come boldly to the throne of grace, we should approach it with humility. After all, we have an audience with the King of the universe. Hearing His voice and sensing His direction becomes easy when we have a humble heart. Humility gives us a higher perspective and brings us to the place with the most extraordinary light. It is the place of greater sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Humility brings His grace to the scene, and our prayers become filled with His divine influence and direction.

James 4:6 (NKJV) But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”

We partner with God in prayer, recognizing that we are here for His good pleasure. We pursue His will, plan, and purpose even when we pray for ourselves. We provide the vessel in this partnership, and He fills it with His divine will and purpose. We then pour out the mystery of His will with our prayers, inviting His influence and expecting His involvement. When approaching prayer with an expectation of partnering with God, we are more likely to have a listening ear than simply a running mouth. 

A mindless recital of prayer should become a thing of the past. Effectual, fervent prayer should become a lifestyle of supernatural engagement that partners with God to shape our future and impact the world around us.

James 5:13-16 (NKJV) Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

When we find ourselves at a place in prayer with the perspectives described above, we are praying in the Spirit, whether in a known or unknown tongue.

Praying in tongues

There is more confusion over praying in tongues than any other type of prayer. Praying in tongues is a New Testament doctrine. I see no scriptural evidence of it ending or being “done away with.” However, I continue to see a lot of misunderstanding and unbiblical demonstrations throughout the Church, which need to be addressed. First, I will share my personal experience with the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

On November 7th of 1988, I was born again. a few weeks after my conversion, being completely unchurched and having had no exposure to any teaching about praying in tongues, I was baptized in the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues while alone in my bedroom.

I was reading the book of Acts for the second time. I saw that there was more available to me than what I was currently experiencing, so I prayed, “Lord if there is more of You available to me, I want it.” The Lord then baptized me in His Holy Spirit.

When the Spirit of God came on me, I felt power like electricity all over my body, and it felt like my tongue was as big around as a soda can. I could hear these crazy-sounding words and syllables in my head but resisted saying them out of my mouth because this was all too strange. When I finally yielded to what was happening inside me, I said a few sentences in an unknown tongue and then stopped because it freaked me out. I could not deny that I had a genuine experience and felt the power of God all over me. I just didn’t understand what happened.

No one taught me, no one prayed over me, and no one laid hands on me. I simply saw it in His word and asked for it. God is good!

Here is my concern from over 30 years of observation. Many who claim to have the baptism of the Holy Spirit speak a sentence or two in “tongues” and repeat the same things. This is the limit of their so-called “prayer language.” I have also seen people repeatedly give “messages from the Lord” by tongues and interpretation but use the same few words in tongues, maybe changing the order of the words a bit. However, the interpretation is always different.

This is not praying in tongues, it is a repetition and a parroting of what once may have been an actual utterance by the Spirit. I am not saying these people have not been baptized in the Spirit. I just question their understanding and their expression to the body of Christ. I believe that some things are out of order.

Praying in other tongues is a practice of listening with the heart, not the mindless repetition of past utterances. Speaking in tongues is a supernatural experience in which we should grow and develop. It should always be fresh, dynamic, and alive.

I still remember the first few sentences I spoke in tongues, but I rarely repeat them. Instead, I listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit on the inside and practice repeating what I hear. The utterance is almost always different. Some times the utterance is so unique and funny sounding that I laugh at myself.

Praying in tongues should be done with an understanding that we are handling holy things and representing a sacred God. Is what we are doing done in the fear of the Lord? Are these things edifying us and the Church? It is a serious thing to speak publicly in tongues and claim these words are from the Lord.

My understanding of scripture is that praying in tongues should be limited in public unless accompanied by an interpretation. 1 Corinthians 14 addresses this issue.

1 Corinthians 14:22-25 (NKJV) Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25 And thus the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.

How we represent God in any setting is a serious thing. We are responsible for being an example to others to the best of our ability. We are all at different places in our journey with the Lord. We should not be too quick to follow others’ examples unless we are confident that they represent the Holy Spirit well.

We can all grow in our understanding, humility, and fear of the Lord. Let us not put God in the tiny box of our limited experience. Instead, let’s ask Him to elevate our experience and understanding to match what the Bible teaches.

Praying in the Spirit is a beautiful thing. It is yielding to the influence of the Holy Spirit, letting Him define us and shape us as we pray in the Spirit with all prayer and supplication.

Quoted from the book, The Spiritual Warfare Manifesto

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