Can’t Help But Tremble

Today’s message comes to us from Psalm 114. It’s a short one, but a great reminder of God’s power, love, and sovereignty.

“When Israel went out from Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language, Judah became his sanctuary, Israel his dominion. The sea looked and fled; Jordan turned back. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs. What ails you, O sea, that you flee? O Jordan, that you turn back? O mountains, that you skip like rams? O hills, like lambs? Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, who turns the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of water.” (ESV)

As I’m writing this, I’m thinking of my morning coffee in the park today. Some of the birds were following one another around and squawking, holding their beaks open, and wanting to be fed by the other. At first, I kind of laughed, and said, “Mama says you’re old enough to feed yourself now.” But then, I remembered those times when my husband would feed me a bite of his meal, or vice versa. Feeding one another is a sign of affection between couples, and family members. The impact of that truth, that family relationships are also that emotional and tender, even among birds, caused that sort of trembling within me. The presence of God, of His character, His traits, is in every living thing. I think we all too often miss those awesome moments of the revelation of God in the world around us because we don’t prepare our hearts to see Him there. I know that every time He reveals Himself to me this way, I cannot help but tremble.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Whoa! Who Opened That Door?!

I want to share something with you all. This goes back to being careful which gates and doors we open. And, no! I’m not crazy.

Last Summer, I was sleeping in my usual spot on the sidewalk, and awoke to find a man lying a short distance away from me. He seemed to be really high on something, and pretty out of it. He was barely conscious, I think. I closed my eyes but stayed awake. I looked over at him every few minutes to see if he was still breathing. He was. About the third or fourth time I looked over at him, there was a woman kneeling before him, and he seemed to be struggling to hold his head up. He was on his back and she was knelt almost between his knees. I sensed something very eerie, and said, “You have a snake on you.” (I cleaned that up a bit; I spoke to him in street language…I’m sure you can fill in the picture.) He looked at me, and let his head fall back onto the sidewalk. The woman looked at me, but didn’t move. A few more minutes went by, and I looked in the man’s direction again. This time, the woman was gone; but I still sensed an eerie presence. Then, I said, “Satan, the blood of Jesus stands against you, and you will not prevail. In the Name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, I rebuke you. Let that man go!” I kid you not! This hideous, giant, lumbering thing stood up out of that man (he was still lying on the sidewalk), and walked across the street to the wall, sort of melting right into it. It was visible, but almost transparent. I’ve never experienced anything like that. The man was gone early the next morning, and I didn’t see him (the man on the sidewalk) again.

Within a few days, things began to happen. I was putting my bedroll down one evening, the wind came up suddenly, and a plastic grocery bag came flying at me. I sensed that same presence, but didn’t see the creature I’d seen before. I again plead the blood of Jesus and rebuked that plastic bag in Jesus’ Name, telling it, “be gone!” That bag fell to the ground and sort of scooted away across the street. One night, I was already in my bedroll, tarp covering me. I left the usual opening at the head, for air. The wind started blowing and gusting. Suddenly, a plastic grocery bag came rushing at my bedroll. I rebuked it again, and when I did, this blast of wind smacked my in the face, as if trying to push me. The plastic bag thing went on all during the Fall and Winter. It would come slinking around me, came rushing at me at times, and just really made a nuisance of itself. A few times, people back in the same area heard me rebuking that plastic bag, and I’ve heard some chortling over it. And, I have to admit, I’ve even laughed at myself – rebuking the hell (literally) out of a plastic bag?! What?! That’s okay; wait and see.

Thursday, Feb. 25th, as I was approaching my usual spot, a little styrofoam bowl came rushing around the corner and rolling along the curb quickly, and I swear that thing looked as if it had been waiting for me. There was also a plastic bag dancing around there. OMG! Two of them?! I rebuked that bag again, and told it to go over to the area just below the big billboard, “where you belong,” I said. It floated up over the top of the wall, dropped behind it for a moment, and then went right into the pile of debris and waste that was there along the fence. The bowl began to play a little game with me, coming closer, and rolling away when I rebuked it. This went on for a few minutes, and I rebuked it one more time, then turned back to getting my things unpacked. I was just about to start putting my bedroll down, when I felt that presence. I turned around, and there was that bowl, right behind me, just off the curb. I said, “Oh, yeah?!” I stopped what I was doing, and began to kick the bowl across the street. When I got it to the little meridian strip there, I kicked it off the curb of it. That little bowl came up off the street, then landed back down on it, and rolled toward that corner where the bag was, at top speed. It jumped the curb there, and there it stayed. I knew that thing/spirit was on the bowl, and that bag was a lesser power, but they were definitely on the same team. Friday night, (actually, very early Saturday morning) I was on the bus, on Charleston, headed East. The bus was side-swiped by an automobile. Thankfully, nobody was hurt; but let me tell you what came floating into the intersection out of nowhere. You guessed it; a plastic grocery bag. This time, it was a black plastic bag. It kind of dipped a little in the intersection and seemed to slow down, floating past. I rebuked it in Jesus’ Name! It fell slowly to the ground and went scooting toward a house on the other side of the intersection, where it disappeared from view. I got off the bus a short time later with two other passengers. As I was waiting for an answer regarding the next scheduled bus and where I would have to catch it, that bag came slinking up to where we were. (closer to the bus) It stopped, and just sort of hovered close to the ground there for a few minutes. One of the supervisors gave me the information about the next bus. The bag was gone when we finished talking and I looked over toward where it had been.

Are you ready? Sunday morning, I was just waking up, and I felt that presence again. Suddenly, I was speaking in a tongue, in the Holy Spirit. Then, I rebuked that thing again, and commanded it to leave in Jesus’ Name. That thing is gone. I believe it was that thing I cast out of that man last Summer; perhaps not wanting to be visible, it attached itself to those bags, and to that little bowl. I’m pretty sure it came to see if I’d been harmed in that accident on Charleston. Praise God! It’s been quiet behind the Rescue Mission since Sunday morning.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Ooh, The Picture’s Clearer

Today’s message comes from Psalms and Proverbs 14. Both give us a clearer picture, yet, of evil, and evil doers. We’re also shown how easily we can backslide and get lost. We are reminded that the LORD is our refuge. He has restored our fortunes through Christ Jesus. Jesus redeemed us, and everything that belongs to us, when He died on Calvary for us.

Interestingly, Proverbs 14:9 tells us that fools have no conscience, or shame. Proverbs 14:19 is a three-fold revelation. “The evil bow down before the good; the wicked at the gates of the righteous.” First, this confirms our dominion over them/victory over them in Jesus’ Name. Secondly, they do this in mockery-so be on your guard. Thirdly, they cannot stand in the Presence of God, nor can they prevail against us. “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) This makes me think of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man sure changed his tune when faced with the truth, didn’t he?

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Wise Enough To Seek Him Still

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we need to make time to seek the Lord. The message tells us that all men seek Jesus; but not all know that it’s Him they seek.

He is the answer to all their hurting, sorrowing, confusion, and troubles. It’s our mission, and great privilege, to show them God’s love for them by our living, and our testimonies. But, if we want to live powerful lives for the Lord, we, ourselves, must not forget to seek Him. This is why we have the privilege of prayer; and remember that God walked with Adam and Eve daily in the garden of Eden. We also have the privilege and power of praise to bring us into God’s Presence. Jesus sought time alone with the Father often. We should follow His example until we are conscious of His Presence with us, and around us every minute. I found this wonderful old song, done by the Soweto Gospel Choir. The song often comes to mind when I think of where Jesus found me, and brought me from. I hope you are as blessed by it as I am.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

The Greatest Gifts

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that spiritual giving-of thought, prayer, comfort, love, compassion, etc., is the first level of giving we must attain to. Giving of these spiritual things (they’re needs everyone has), is the very best we can give. These gifts come from within us, as the Holy Spirit has shed His love abroad in our hearts. It’s only after we understand this giving, and practicing it comes as naturally as breathing comes to us, that we can truly understand what giving on the material plane is and does. Material blessings are temporal and temporary. Spiritual blessing is everlasting, and has everlasting effects, on both giver and receiver. “but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matt. 6:19-20)

As I’ve been practicing giving on the higher plane, I have realized more readily and powerfully, the presence and working of the Holy Spirit within and round about me. It’s such an awesome thing; and so strengthening.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

It Must Come Out First

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that this walk with Jesus is a lifelong journey. From my own experience, it’s the journey of a lifetime.

The message tells us that we can only proceed upward step by step and stage by stage. “And we all having been unveiled in face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image, from glory to glory, even as from the Lord, the Spirit.” (2 Cor. 3:18) No journey is taken in one step; but step by step.

When I read this message, I think about Psalm 23:5 -“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Being transformed into God’s image and likeness involves constant intake of His Divine Nature, His Word, His Love for us. However, as we fill up with it, we must make room for more. (Proverbs 25:16) That’s why we must be doers, and not only hearers of the Word. In the hearing, we are being empowered with truth and wisdom. It’s in the doing, however, that our faith and character grow. Our spirits are strengthened, our hope is renewed, and joy rises up within us over our growth in Christ Jesus, and the things of the Kingdom of Heaven. (Romans 2:13)

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Stepping Into Christ

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that Jesus is our Savior every day, in every way. The message speaks to us of our refuge, our sanctuary, God. He is where we need to flee to from everything that threatens to overwhelm us.

He is where we need to flee to from ourselves. I think of Peter whenever I read this message. Peter, walking on the water, Peter, falling into the water, Peter, crying out to the Lord, “Save me!” We’re bid, in the message to enter that Presence of God and absorb His Divinity. It is that Divinity that has overcome the world, because that Divinity created the world. That includes us. It isn’t just the world around us that can cause us trouble. The world in us, or the flesh nature, can be horribly wounding, confusing, and overwhelming to our Divine nature, our spirit. Thank God we have Jesus to save us from ourselves.

The one scripture that speaks so loudly to me on this, is “The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Cor. 2:16) This is telling us that we have a license to sin. It says to us that Christ Jesus is our judge. Therefore, we need not fear the condemnation of men, nor worry about their opinions of us, how we rate with them, etc. We are freed from that in Christ Jesus. We’re also freed from self condemnation. It’s a journey; not a test. Nor is it a trial. The trial already happened in Jerusalem when they arrested the King of kings and condemned Him to death.

Realizing Christ’s mind is ours is a powerful revelation, and an awesomely electrifying surge of strength, spiritually. It means I can learn from Jesus, how He viewed the Heavenly Father, the world around Him, all the stuff He had to deal with and listen to, and do. Jesus is not just a meek and weak little lamb. Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah! Kingly, regal, in authority; that’s Jesus, our Savior. He’s by no means a bully. But, He definitely knows who and whose He is, and what rights and responsibilities He has. He never wavered, never altered His order/way of dealing with things, etc. When we can do that….WOW!!!!! You can almost feel the bonds of the “world” and all its “stuff” fall off, and freedom bursting up from within. That’s how Jesus could tell us, “In the world you’ll have tribulation. But be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world. (John 16:33) Thank you, Jason Upton for this awesome version of Freedom Reigns.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

He Believes In You

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that God is not willing that any should perish. We are reminded that Jesus never gives up on us. He is the “Heavenly Beggar, in His great humility, always knocking at the door of your heart. And, let me tell you, Jesus can and will be there the instant you call on Him. He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins when we confess them. And, He will take you into His arms and make you His when you come. “Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28) “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name,…” (John 1:12)

Even after you’ve been saved, Jesus never pushes Himself on you. He knows each heart, and He has perfect timing, and the perfect way to reach you. I’ve been chastised so gently by the Lord. And then there was one time I asked, “Lord why don’t I feel your presence? Why aren’t you talking to me?” The answer thudded in my heart: “When’s the last time you came and talked to me?” Not that Jesus was trying to teach me a lesson. But let me tell you, the Holy Spirit will surely reveal your heart to you. I’d been into this, “it’s all about me” attitude with the Lord.

As children of God, we are commissioned to preach the Gospel, and lead others to Jesus. I’ve learned something over the years; from my own life experiences, as well as from witnessing to others. I’ve also picked up some revealing little nuggets just from listening to people talk about God. One of the most important things is that people don’t want to hear about how to get to Heaven, nearly as much as they want to know how to get out of their Hell (s). Heaven is, for the unbeliever, much too far away for them to “waste time” thinking about right now. “Give me something that I can use, and right now,” is pretty much what their attitude is. One of the best salvation sermons you can preach is about what Jesus has done for you. The woman at the well did just that, and a town full of folks got saved. Jesus said, “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how to defend yourselves, or what to say. For at that time, the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say.” (Luke 12:11-12)

I was in a discussion about whether or not God exists, one time. The man kept saying He didn’t believe in God; and rather snidely. I wasn’t arguing with Him about it. I did give Him my testimony of some things Jesus has done in my life, and of the power of God displayed in my life. Still, he said, “I do not believe in God!” I said, “That’s okay. He believes in you. Remember that when you need to.” Then I walked away. “He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10) That’s the scripture that came to mind as I was leaving. Sometimes, it’s only ours to sow the seed. The Word of God is alive and filled with power; and it will accomplish that for which it was sent. So, just be still, and know that He is God, He has perfect timing, and He will save whom He will save. You’ve done your part.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Believe, And You Will See

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that Jesus is always with us. We are encouraged to seek Him daily. But, we’re reminded that the joy of His Presence is not realized through our efforts. Rather, it is like Jesus said, “Blessed are those who believe and have not seen.”

In a recent Bible study discussion, I said that a lot of people don’t realize that when we pick up the Bible, we are taking Jesus by the hand; literally. He is the Word of God, made flesh. Jesus is a real person. We’re encouraged by the message to speak His Name often. We’re also reminded that He really doesn’t need any summoning. Rather, we need to become and remain aware of His Presence with us. Jesus said, “Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened to you. Ask, and you will receive.” By this, we can be sure that when we open our hearts to Him, and set our hearts on Him, we will see Him. Of course, that seeing is actually realizing His Presence with us, and in most everything around us. As I wrote this post, I thought of the song, “Something about that Name.” I hope it helps you to realize His Presence there with you, as it does me every time I hear it or sing it. Thank you, Gaither Family.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Work At Resting

Today’s message from God Calling – A. J. Russell, bids us to come unto Him; and to stay with Him. The Lord’s presence, you see, is our Sabbath rest. The Sabbath is holy to the LORD/Lord; and that holiness surrounds us as we rest in Him.

It is in the resting in the presence of the LORD/Lord, that power comes to us. “My strength is made perfect in your weakness.” (2 Cor. 12:9) “…in quietness and trust is your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15) My life changed completely, when I learned to just walk in that rest. I learned to stay there at all costs. No, things still don’t always go right; yes, I still get angry, frustrated, upset, etc. But, I can, and do, go right back into that rest immediately, or asap, when I do lose it. It’s a matter of working at it, until we get it so right the devil can’t pull us out anymore. It’s just like that seventy times seven forgiveness thing – in other words, “do it until it comes naturally to you.”

Happy Birthday, my love! My first baby girl is celebrating her 40th birthday today. May your day be blessed with all the love, joy, laughter, and beautiful memories your heart can hold…and then some. And may I tell you, you are my “and them some!” Love you!

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu