Faith

[Honeylioness]

Me: God, can I ask You a question?

God: Sure

Me: Promise You won't get mad

God: I promise

Me: Why did You let so much stuff happen to me today?

God: What do u mean?

Me: Well, I woke up late

God: Yes

Me: My car took forever to start

God: Okay

Me: at lunch they made my sandwich wrong & I had to wait

God: Huummm

Me: On the way home, my phone went DEAD, just as I picked up a call

God: All right

Me: And on top of it all off, when I got home ~I just want to soak my feet in my new foot massager & relax. BUT it wouldn't work!!! Nothing went right today! Why did You do that?

God: Let me see, the death angel was at your bed this morning & I had to send one of My Angels to battle him for your life. I let you sleep through that

Me (humbled): OH

GOD: I didn't let your car start because there was a drunk driver on your route that would have hit you if you were on the road.

Me: (ashamed)

God: The first person who made your sandwich today was sick & I didn't want you to catch what they have, I knew you couldn't afford to miss work.

Me (embarrassed):Okay

God: Your phone went dead because the person that was calling was going to give false witness about what you said on that call, I didn't even let you talk to them so you would be covered.

Me (softly): I see God

God: Oh and that foot massager, it had a shortage that was going to throw out all of the power in your house tonight. I didn't think you wanted to be in the dark.

Me: I'm Sorry God

God: Don't be sorry, just learn to Trust Me.... in All things , the Good & the bad.

Me: I will trust You.

God: And don't doubt that My plan for your day is Always Better than your plan.

Me: I won't God. And let me just tell you God, Thank You for Everything today.

God: You're welcome child. It was just another day being your God and I Love looking after My Children...

[Honeylioness]

A Father, a Daughter - A touching true story by Catherine Moore


"Watch out! You nearly broad sided that car!" My father yelled at me. "Can't you do anything right?"

Those words hurt worse than blows. I turned my head toward the elderly man in the seat beside me, daring me to challenge him. A lump rose in my throat as I averted my eyes. I wasn't prepared for another battle.

"I saw the car, Dad . Please don't yell at me when I'm driving.."

My voice was measured and steady, sounding far calmer than I really felt.

Dad glared at me, then turned away and settled back. At home I left Dad in front of the television and went outside to collect my
thoughts..... dark, heavy clouds hung in the air with a promise of
rain. The rumble of distant thunder seemed to echo my inner turmoil. What could I do about him?

Dad had been a lumberjack in Washington and Oregon . He had enjoyed being outdoors and had reveled in pitting his strength against the forces of nature. He had entered grueling lumberjack competitions, and had placed often. The shelves in his house were filled with trophies that attested to his prowess.

The years marched on relentlessly. The first time he couldn't lift a heavy log, he joked about it; but later that same day I saw him outside alone, straining to lift it.. He became irritable whenever anyone teased him about his advancing age, or when he couldn't do something he had done as a younger man.

Four days after his sixty-seventh birthday, he had a heart attack. An ambulance sped him to the hospital while a paramedic administered CPR to keep blood and oxygen flowing.

At the hospital, Dad was rushed into an operating room. He was lucky; he survived. But something inside Dad died. His zest for life was gone. He obstinately refused to follow doctor's orders. Suggestions and offers of help were turned aside with sarcasm and insults. The number of visitors thinned, then finally stopped altogether. Dad was left alone..

My husband, thingy, and I asked Dad to come live with us on our small farm. We hoped the fresh air and rustic atmosphere would help him adjust.

Within a week after he moved in, I regretted the invitation. It seemed nothing was satisfactory. He criticized everything I did. I became frustrated and moody. Soon I was taking my pent-up anger out on thingy. We began to bicker and argue.

Alarmed, thingy sought out our pastor and explained the situation. The clergyman set up weekly counseling appointments for us. At the close of each session he prayed, asking God to soothe Dad's troubled mind.

But the months wore on and God was silent. Something had to be done and it was up to me to do it.

The next day I sat down with the phone book and methodically called each of the mental health clinics listed in the Yellow Pages. I explained my problem to each of the sympathetic voices that answered in vain.

Just when I was giving up hope, one of the voices suddenly exclaimed, "I just read something that might help you! Let me go get the article.."

I listened as she read. The article described a remarkable study done at a nursing home. All of the patients were under treatment for chronic depression. Yet their attitudes had proved dramatically when they were given responsibility for a dog..

I drove to the animal shelter that afternoon.. After I filled out a questionnaire, a uniformed officer led me to the kennels. The odor of disinfectant stung my nostrils as I moved down the row of pens Each contained five to seven dogs. Long-haired dogs, curly-haired dogs, black dogs, spotted dogs all jumped up, trying to reach me. I studied each one but rejected one after the other for various reasons too big, too small, too much hair. As I neared the last pen a dog in the shadows of the far corner struggled to his feet, walked to the front of the run and sat down. It was a pointer, one of the dog world's aristocrats. But this was a caricature of the breed.

Years had etched his face and muzzle with shades of gray. His hip bones jutted out in lopsided triangles. But it was his eyes that caught and held my attention. Calm and clear, they beheld me unwaveringly.

I pointed to the dog. "Can you tell me about him?" The officer looked, then shook his head in puzzlement. "He's a funny one. Appeared out of nowhere and sat in front of the gate. We brought him in, figuring someone would be right down to claim him. That was two weeks ago and we've heard nothing. His time is up tomorrow." He gestured helplessly.

As the words sank in I turned to the man in horror.. "You mean you're going to kill him?"

"Ma'am," he said gently, "that's our policy. We don't have room for every unclaimed dog."

I looked at the pointer again. The calm brown eyes awaited my decision. "I'll take him," I said. I drove home with the dog on the front seat beside me.. When I reached the house I honked the horn twice. I was helping my prize out of the car when Dad shuffled onto the front porch... "Ta-da! Look what I got for you, Dad !" I said excitedly.

Dad looked, then wrinkled his face in disgust. "If I had wanted a dog I would have gotten one. And I would have picked out a better specimen than that bag of bones. Keep it! I don't want it" Dad waved his arm scornfully and turned back toward the house.

Anger rose inside me.. It squeezed together my throat muscles and pounded into my temples. "You'd better get used to him, Dad. He's staying!"

Dad ignored me.. "Did you hear me, Dad?" I screamed. At those words Dad whirled angrily, his hands clenched at his sides, his eyes narrowed and blazing with hate. We stood glaring at each other like duelists, when suddenly the pointer pulled free from my grasp. He wobbled toward my dad and sat down in front of him. Then slowly, carefully, he raised his paw..

Dad's lower jaw trembled as he stared at the uplifted paw confusion replaced the anger in his eyes. The pointer waited patiently. Then Dad was on his knees hugging the animal.

It was the beginning of a warm and intimate friendship. Dad named the pointer Cheyenne . Together he and Cheyenne explored the community. They spent long hours walking down dusty lanes. They spent reflective moments on the banks of streams, angling for tasty trout. They even started to attend Sunday services together, Dad sitting in a pew and Cheyenne lying quietly at his feet.

Dad and Cheyenne were inseparable throughout the next three years. Dad's bitterness faded, and he and Cheyenne made many friends. Then late one night I was startled to feel Cheyenne 's cold nose burrowing through our bed covers. He had never before come into our bedroom at night.. I woke thingy, put on my robe and ran into my father's room. Dad lay in his bed, his face serene. But his spirit had left quietly sometime during the night.

Two days later my shock and grief deepened when I discovered Cheyenne lying dead beside Dad's bed. I wrapped his still form in the rag rug he had slept on. As thingy and I buried him near a favourite fishing hole, I silently thanked the dog for the help he had given me in restoring Dad's peace of mind.

The morning of Dad's funeral dawned overcast and dreary. This day looks like the way I feel, I thought, as I walked down the aisle to the pews reserved for family. I was surprised to see the many friends Dad and Cheyenne had made filling the church.. The pastor began his eulogy. It was a tribute to both Dad and the dog who had changed his life.

And then the pastor turned to Hebrews 13:2. "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it."

"I've often thanked God for sending that angel," he said.

For me, the past dropped into place, completing a puzzle that I had not seen before: the sympathetic voice that had just read the right article... Cheyenne 's unexpected appearance at the animal shelter ....his calm acceptance and complete devotion to my father. . and the proximity of their deaths. And suddenly I understood. I knew that God had answered my prayers after all.

Life is too short for drama or petty things, so laugh hard, love truly and forgive quickly. Live While You Are Alive. Forgive now those who made you cry. You might not get a second time.

And if you don't send this to anyone ---nobody cares.. But I chose to shared this because I know lost time can never be found.

God answers our prayers in His time........not ours..

[Honeylioness]

Thursday, November 21, 2013


From the desk of Steve Shultz: This word by Francis Frangipane is going to be most helpful and most encouraging to those who are in the "pit of despair". But, as Francis states here: "...God has not promised to keep us from valleys and sufferings, but He has promised to make us fruitful in them!"

In this word, straight from the heart of God, I believe, you will learn how God has always done for others in history, what He is doing for you now rescuing you in the midst of great valleys. He always does this AT JUST THE
RIGHT TIME. Read on to learn more...and be encouraged!


Francis Frangipane: Your Personal Valley of Fruitfulness

The battles we face are often intense times of weakness, distress, and confusion. If the events of our lives were charted, these would be the lowest points. Yet God is no less with us during difficulties than at other times.

In fact, these valleys are often as much the plan of God as our mountaintop experiences. There is a story in the Bible that speaks plainly to this truth.

Israel had recently defeated the Arameans in a mountain battle. In 1 Kings, chapter 20, we read: "Then the prophet came near to the king of Israel and said to him, 'Go, strengthen yourself and observe and see what you have to do; for at the turn of the year the king of Aram will come up against you.'

Now the servants of the king of Aram said to him, 'Their gods are gods of the mountains, therefore they were stronger than we; but rather let us fight against them in the plain, and surely we shall be stronger than they'" (1
Kings 20:22-23). The enemy said that the God of Israel was a god of the mountains, but if they fought the Jews in the valleys they would defeat them.

We read in verse 28: "Then a man of God came near and spoke to the king of Israel and said, 'Thus says the Lord, "Because the Arameans have said, 'The Lord is a god of the mountains, but He is not a god of the valleys,' therefore, I will give all this great multitude into your hand, and you shall know that I am the Lord"'" (1 Kings 20:28).


No matter what the enemy tries to tell you, Christ is God of the mountains and He is God of the valleys. He has not stopped being God because you happen to be in a valley. He is the God of glory as seen in His power and miracles. In the valleys He reveals Himself as faithful, loyally committed to us in our difficulties and distresses. In and through all things He is our God. When we are on the "mountaintops" of our Christian experience, we can see our future clearly. We have perspective and confidence. When we are in one of life's valleys, however, our vision is limited and our future seems hidden. Yet valleys are also the most fertile places on earth. Valleys produce fruitfulness. You can expect there to be a harvest of virtue when God dwells with you in the valleys of life.


Consider Joseph

How blessed is the man whose strength is in You, in whose heart are the
highways to Zion! Passing through the valley of Baca [weeping] they make it a spring... Psalm 84:5-6 Has the enemy isolated you, causing you to doubt
God's love? Do not forget, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Even the hairs on your head are numbered. He cares. It is His love for us that redeems our hardships, which not only brings good out of what was meant for evil but also trains us to deliver others.

Consider Joseph. He was the second youngest of Jacob's sons and his father's favorite. His walk with God began with dreams and visions. Joseph's life is a pattern for many who have had a genuine call from God. Our walk with God may also have begun with a "travel brochure" of dreams and visions where God gives us a picture of His destination for us. What we fail to be able to see is how His promises will come to pass in our lives.

Joseph was betrayed by his brothers and delivered up by them to die. He was unjustly accused when Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him. He was imprisoned and forgotten by all except God, who was patiently watching and measuring Joseph's reactions to difficulty.

Rich or poor, blessed or smitten, regardless of his circumstances, Joseph served God. He continued to pass his tests. Joseph was on trial before men, but he was found innocent before God.

Finally, at the right moment, the Lord suddenly connected all the loose ends of Joseph's life. Everything that he went through, as unfair as each thing was, God used to shape him for Heaven's purpose. God alone sees the future and how the promises He gives us will unfold. Our task is to lay hold of Christ's integrity and keep faith in what God has promised. Just as He allowed Joseph to go through many trials, so He allows us to go through great conflicts as well. For He knows that our lives, tested as they are, will help others find the shelter of the Most High in their lives.

"Joseph named the firstborn Manasseh, 'For,' he said, 'God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household'" (Genesis 41:51). God
caused Joseph to forget the difficulty and pain of his life. There is something wonderful about the Lord's capacity to cause all things to work for good. With Jesus in our lives, a time ultimately comes when God causes us to forget all the troubles of the past.

"He named the second Ephraim, 'For,' he said, 'God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction'" (Genesis 41:52). God made Joseph fruitful in the very land of his affliction €“ and in the land of your affliction, in your battle, is the place where God will make you fruitful. Ultimately, the Lord will touch many others with the substance of what you have gained. In a world that is superficial, Christ will produce something in you that is deep and living.

God has not promised to keep us from valleys and sufferings, but He has promised to make us fruitful in them. Without a doubt we each will pass through valleys before we reach our final goal in God. As we remain faithful to Him in trials, the character and nature of Christ Jesus will emerge in our lives.

Lord, You are God of the mountains and the valleys. I know that Your faithfulness is my shield and my bulwark. Thank You for redeeming the conflicts of my life; I praise You for healing me and causing me to forget all the trauma of my past. Now, Lord, help me now to help others as well.

[Honeylioness]

A Pastoral Letter from Bishop McConnell


November 25, 2013


Dear Friends in Christ,

As you know, the 77th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, meeting in Indianapolis in 2012, authorized at the discretion of the bishop, a provisional rite for blessing a lifelong covenant between persons of the same sex. Prior to that, I had announced my intention to conduct a series of conversations in the diocese to give me a sense of the faithful and to lay the groundwork for our continuing unity. These conversations have occurred, and I include a report as part of this letter. Beyond that process, I have listened to many other voices, reflected deeply on Scripture, consulted broadly, and prayed throughout, asking that God would guide me toward a decision consistent with His will. The purpose of this letter is to convey not only that decision, but also my hope in our future together and the scope of some of the pastoral considerations I believe we will need to keep in mind going forward.

As I have listened to you, I have heard many passionate, and sometimes contradictory, hopes and fears. Some have insisted they will not tolerate any permitted use of a blessing liturgy in this diocese, while others have insisted they will accept nothing less than sacramental marriage for same-sex couples. Between these poles I have heard a host of nuanced positions, usually accompanied by the sincere desire for the unity of the Church and a deep hope that, whatever my decision, we would find a way to hold onto one another in Christ, setting an example for the world by our love.

This unity in diversity has been in the forefront of expressed values since the earliest days of the rebuilding that took place in this diocese after 2008. Our "Mission, Vision & Values" covenant from that time speaks of our commitment to each other, despite differences and disagreement, being united in greater measure by our faith expressed in the Creeds; by the authority of Scripture, tradition and reason in our common life; and by a commitment both to the order of the Episcopal Church and the fellowship of the Anglican Communion. While that covenant does not explicitly name the issues concerning human sexuality, it has been understood that these matters are part of the diversity in the diocese, expressed in the character of local communities of faith, some congregations in the aggregate being more conservative on issues of sexuality, others more progressive, and a few quite mixed.

Since this local character exists in variety of conviction, I find it reasonable that this variety should be allowed to express itself in local practice, by allowing the decision of whether or not to use this rite to be made by each pastor, in his or her own parish. This "local option" will allow each rector or priest-in-charge to minister pastorally according to his or her commitments and conscience, while putting none under constraint or duress.

Having said this, I must also be clear, both as your bishop and from my own place in this spectrum of belief, that I have serious reservations concerning the theology and intention of the rite, for reasons I have specified in an assessment that appears below. I know that at least a few of the clergy inclined to use this rite share some of my concerns about it; I also know they see it as a way of offering public recognition and pastoral support to same-sex couples in whom qualities of mutual devotion and fidelity, care and nurture, and faithful participation in the life of the Church are clearly visible. It is out of respect for their local pastoral authority, as well as out of my own pastoral regard for the free conscience of all who are under their care, that I will allow the use of this rite according to the guidelines that also appear below.

As for the somewhat related matter of ordained ministry, I believe the principal determining factor in regard to my role as ordinary rests in my discernment, in concert with the Church, as to whether God is calling any given individual to Holy Orders. Therefore, I will not alter the non-discrimination policy begun under Bishop Price; an individual's being in a committed same-sex partnership will not, in and of itself, be a barrier either to ordination or call in this diocese.

I have previously acknowledged that these policy decisions, along with the accompanying materials, will not satisfy everyone. However, I believe we are called into one Body, as Christ's members, and in and through that Body are called to bear with one another, not out of obligation, but out of joy in the gift God has given us through one another, perhaps especially in the gift of those who differ with us and yet whom we embrace as sisters and brothers in Christ. In an increasingly polarized and contentious world, let us pray that our forbearance with one another in love will show forth the character of Jesus the Reconciler, whose heart of peace yearns over all our wars.

Finally, I know that even to open this topic exposes the most tender areas of human identity and affections, the deepest questions of our aspirations and purpose in life, our acceptability before God and others, our call to holiness, and our need for grace. Mindful that we all must one day render an account before the judgment seat of Christ, especially for those who were kept from the mercy of God by anything we have done or said, I ask your particular prayers and consideration, in the coming days, for the following:

** Those gay, lesbian, or transgendered people who have not found a welcome in the Church; as well as those who rejoice that their committed relationships may now be celebrated.

** Those of homosexual or heterosexual orientation who are committed to lives of holy celibacy, as a matter of obedience to God and faithfulness to Scripture.

** All who are married; especially those struggling, seeking the grace of God and the support of a Christian community to heal their relationship and reconcile them to their spouse.

** Those whose marriages have ended badly and who bear old burdens of grief or guilt.

** The divorced and remarried who may still encounter a spirit of condemnation in the Church.

I have often said that I believe I was called to be the bishop of the whole diocese, not merely a part of it. That remains my commitment. I am available to talk and pray with you around any concerns you may have regarding any part of this letter. I only ask again that, as we move forward, you hold in your own heart and prayers those whose views may be utterly different from your own, but who share with you the same hope in Christ.

May the coming holy season of Advent serve as a time to renew our souls, quicken our repentance, and refresh our joy as together we await the celebration of the Savior's birth.

Faithfully your bishop,


(The Right Reverend) Dorsey W.M. McConnell, D.D.
The Bishop of Pittsburgh

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Guidelines for the Use of the Rite

The rite is permitted for local use as of The Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, 2014, by the rector or priest-in-charge of a parish, or by an assisting priest acting under the authority of that rector or priest-in-charge, within that parish.

No priest may be compelled to use this rite in violation of his or her own conscience.

The rite may be used outside the diocese by clergy canonically resident in the Diocese of Pittsburgh only by joint permission of the Bishop of Pittsburgh and of the bishop in the hosting diocese.

The rite must be used according to its rubrics and may only be adapted within their provisions. No other liturgy may be used for the blessing of same-sex covenants.

It shall be the responsibility of any pastor contemplating the use of this rite to assess the likely pastoral and liturgical implications, and to address them with the couple, the parish leadership, and the bishop well in advance of the prospective date of its use.

The Provisional Rite: An Assessment

The new rite for blessing a lifelong covenant between people of the same sex is entitled "I Will Bless You, and You Will Be a Blessing." If I am correct in interpreting both the extensive prefatory material included in Resolution A049, as introduced and approved at the 2012 General Convention, as well as many public statements on the part of members of the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, the intent of the Commission is eventually to establish this rite as matrimonial. Consistent with this intention, the rite appears to follow the pattern of the celebration of matrimony as set forth in the 1979 Book of Common Prayer: an opening announcement, readings, an exchange of vows and rings, prayers and a final blessing over the couple.

Beyond this general form, however, the similarities disappear. The rite does not give a coherent statement of the nature and purpose of the covenant being celebrated. It does not base its authority in Scriptural warrant. There is no reference to bodily union. Its understanding of the role of procreativity, while helpful in one regard, is ultimately compromised. And the "theology of blessing" that pervades the liturgy is inadequate to establish the sacramental character of the rite. I will briefly expand on these points in order, through a comparison of the 1979 rite of matrimony and the provisional rite of blessing.

The rite of matrimony is clear in establishing the purpose of the covenant: lifelong union of man and woman "in heart, body and mind" for mutual joy, help, comfort, and procreation of children. The authority of the rite is located in four specific Biblical warrants (Genesis, John, Ephesians and Hebrews) incorporated into the text of the opening instruction, and by several readings that refer specifically to marriage. The bodily nature of the union is referred to at least twice (in the opening instruction and in the prayer for the couple "made one flesh in holy matrimony"), as is the procreation of children and the role of the parents as primary teachers of the Gospel. Finally, the governing theology of the rite from beginning to end is rooted in the classical narrative of redemption – a good creation, fallen through sin, dead under the Law, redeemed by the Cross of Jesus Christ, and given new life through His Resurrection. The couple signifies the totality of humanity, representing the image of God – once shattered in Eden – now restored in Christ. The sacramental character of marriage, as with all sacramental rites, is shown to be transformative: the couple is changed, embodying the hope that we all may be changed, transformed by grace into a new creation.

The provisional rite is unclear from the outset as to its nature and purpose. The opening instruction mentions certain qualities the parties are supposed to demonstrate – such as strength and bravery – but the "love" that is referred to as the basis for the covenant is not further defined. Is it sexual love? Familial love? Friendship? A diverse set of Scriptures, beginning with the responsory reading from 1 John, are brought in to develop the general theme of "love," but none sheds any light on the question of the covenant's nature or purpose, and none rises to the level of a Biblical warrant. Sexual congress is assumed, judging from the extensive prefatory material which includes guidelines for counseling the couple, but never actually mentioned. Procreativity is referenced in the inclusion of existing children in the liturgy – to my mind the rite's greatest strength – but the couple's role in raising them is unclear. (For example, the children are to go "from strength to strength" but no mention is made of them being raised to know God, nor are the responsibilities of the adults toward them further defined.)

Further, the "theology of blessing" throughout the provisional rite seems to be a deliberate departure from the classical narrative of redemption. In the provisional rite, the creation remains wholly good, we are made to be a "blessing," and the couple become (again, in a way unspecified) an affirmation and reminder of that good creation. Some language from the narrative of redemption is sporadically used (e.g. "grace," "new creation," and even in one instance, the "saving work of Jesus"). However, since in this "theology of blessing" all is apparently well and good, it is uncertain what that redemptive language means in this new context, what we might need to be saved from or saved to. No transformation is necessary. Since the very nature of sacrament entails transformation by means of grace, I am not sure what place sacraments could have in such a world.

I note that Resolution A049 specifically charges the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music to review its work in the light of classical systematic theology. This is hopeful. However, if the intention of the rite is to establish a persuasive theological and liturgical case for the sacramental blessing of same sex unions, that case is at best unproved. If it is further to establish a rite that may be used, at some point in the future, for matrimony of heterosexual couples, the replacement of a theology of redemption with a theology of blessing represents a clear departure from our historic understanding of the Gospel.

I will be conveying my thoughts to the Commission during this period in which it is seeking comment and feedback on the rite, and encourage others in the diocese to do the same.

+D.McC.

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Summary Report: Conversations on Human Sexuality and Communion

In January 2013, the Diocese of Pittsburgh began a process of dialogue among its members. This process had two primary goals. The first was to learn a non-confrontational manner of discussing issues where there was disagreement. The second was to bring diverse people together to discuss issues concerning the blessing of same-sex covenants and the ordination of gay and lesbian clergy, and the larger topic of our life together.

Two groups were formed to assist in the process: a Steering Committee, which worked in the early stages to help design the overall plan; and a prayer team, which provided on-going spiritual support. The format was structured by the Public Conversations Project, a consulting group that specializes in addressing topics where there is a deep divide among people. The dialogue design was tested by the Steering Committee, adjusted, used with two pilot groups in March and April, and then, following training of a corps of facilitators, rolled out to the diocese in June.

During the period from June 27 through September 28, dialogues were held at St. Peter's, Brentwood; St. Paul's, Mt. Lebanon; St. Thomas, Oakmont; St. Mark's, Johnstown; and St. Michael's, Ligonier. An invitation to participate was sent out in Grace Happens. While 143 people signed up in response to this, about one-third of those were unable to participate, generally due to schedule constraints. The ability to devote a full day was difficult for many.

Thirty-two people participated in the January through April phase of the project. An additional 92 participated in the nine sessions held from June through September.

Following an opening prayer provided by our prayer team, each session began with an explanation of the differences between debate and dialogue, with emphasis that the sessions were not for arguing or swaying the minds of others, but rather, hearing diverse views in a safe and confidential manner. Participants then split into two groups, each containing those of similar views. This allowed participants to practice the dialogue format of listen, think, speak before engaging with others who had different views. The two groups were mixed for the afternoon session, which concluded with the question, "What could happen in the diocese over the next year that might enable moving forward together as the body of Christ?" Responses were written on a flip chart, typed, and forwarded directly to Bishop McConnell for his review as part of his personal discernment on the issues.

What did the participants convey to the bishop? Six key themes emerged:

The diocese needs to avoid making issues of human sexuality THE defining issue of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh. All need to focus on our common ground rather than on polarizing issues. Diocesan goals and activities towards those goals need to be clear.

Education is needed across the diocese on Episcopal polity at the congregational, diocesan, and national levels. Education is also needed on the various interpretations of scriptural references to homosexuality and on current knowledge of human sexuality and sexual identity.

No one should be marginalized due to their position on issues regarding human sexuality. As a diocese, we have more than a decade of experience with marginalizing those who disagree. This is not a Christian response. Everyone needs to be heard and to feel that they have been heard.

We need more time together. Many commented on how fragmented we have become and how many parishes have isolated themselves from the diocese during the last decade. If we are to become a strong diocese with a common focus, we need to devote the time to being together. The more time we spend together, the more common ground and Christian love for each other we feel. We need to do this through district and diocesan meetings. We might develop sister parishes with whom we share worship, music, mission and outreach, and regular fellowship.

What could happen? Participants envisioned homosexuals being welcomed and heterosexuals not feeling threatened, because in thought, word and deed, all seek to make others comfortable and part of our worship community; that we realize the majesty of the faith we share makes our differences less consequential; and, that parishes would have latitude to operate within the historic Episcopal traditions of diversity and welcome, accepting the wisdom of the past while respecting the wisdom of the present. It was also noted that some people may leave no matter what the decision.

The conversations need to continue. There was almost unanimous sentiment that this type of dialogue is good and needs to continue. Suggestions were made that it happen at the district and congregational levels through the next year, both to help us discuss these issues as the diocese moves ahead and to allow a forum for other difficult topics to be discussed in a healthy way.

We, the undersigned co-chairs, are grateful for the members of the Steering Committee who were so instrumental in helping us initially plan and refine our process: the Rev. Nancy Chalfant-Walker, Greg Davis, Alan Lewis, Mary Roehrich, and the Rev. Philip Wainwright. We appreciate the support of the prayer team, led by Carol Gonzalez and the Rev. Kathy LaLonde. We also thank our facilitators from PCP, Bob Stains and Mary Jacksteit. And above all, we are indebted to the participants of these dialogue sessions for coming to them with open minds and caring hearts, and to all who supported the process in spirit and in prayer.

In Christ,


(The Rt. Rev.) Dorsey W.M. McConnell, D.D. Dana M. Phillips
The Bishop of Pittsburgh Co-chair

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Additional Resources

A guide for those who wish to do further study of the provisional rite or to access materials referenced in this Pastoral Letter and accompanying documents:

Resolution A049 to Authorize Liturgical Resources for Blessing Same-Gender Relationships: www.generalconvention.org/gc/resolutions

"I Will Bless You and You Will Be a Blessing" (purchase or free download of the rite with one page theological summary): www.churchpublishing.org/products/index.cfm?fuseaction=productDetail&productID=9743

Full SCLM theological statement (prefatory material) as prepared for the 77th General Convention: www.ctepiscopal.org/images/customer-files/I_Will_Bless_You_Corrected.pdf

The Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music: www.generalconvention.org/ccab/roster/399

To contact SCLM: [e-mail]

SCLM Online Survey: www.surveymonkey.com/s/SCLMSame-SexResourceFeedback

Mission, Vision & Values Statement of the Diocese of Pittsburgh: www.episcopalpgh.org/resources/mission-vision-values/

[Honeylioness]

Fri, Dec 06, 2013 12:30 PM

This is a powerful word of encouragement. I pray you will read it and be blessed and lifted up by it. I don't often forward the prophetic messages I get, but I felt a strong prompting to send this. You can click on text only and read the message without having to scroll through the other material. - Mom

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Bob Jones:
God Bless America

Bob and Bonnie JonesWhile in a trance on the afternoon of July 26, 2008, Bob heard the audible voice of God say, "America has forgotten Kate Smith's song...God Bless America! They are cursing America more than blessing her with their words. Their words have power. I have not forgotten her; I love her. If they don't begin to bless America, she will go down!"

Now again this year, on November 18th, the Lord rebuked Bob by saying, "You pray for everything else, but you've forgotten to pray for America. It's time to decree the blessings of God over this nation. People are issuing false decrees against her, and this is not My desire. Now begin to bless America and I will heal her land."

God Has A Plan For America

God Bless AmericaWe must pray to cancel the power and authority of the spoken word that would not be in alignment with God's divine will and destiny for this nation. We have a great heritage in this nation. Our forefathers dedicated their lives and died in bravery to ensure our freedom. Our Constitution was framed by the words of Christian men dedicated to guarantee all Americans' freedom. Let us not forget their words and deeds; indeed, let us remember the fortitude of these brave fathers who worked together to form our Constitution allowing us to be free. We are "yet" one nation under God dedicated by our fathers for His service. Let us pray and release the blessings of our heritage that our forefathers died for.

God loves America; she supports Israel, and that is His wife. We must be diligent to pray for Israel as well. I believe that God blesses America because she blesses Israel and Israel is the apple of His eye. We need to cancel the power and authority of the spoken word against her. It's always been a matter of birthright. The devil wants Israel, but she belongs to God.

The Lord showed me political leaders of foreign nations that desire to see America fail. There are nations that look upon America as the great satan, and their words are destructive against her. We must stand on the promises of God for this nation and proclaim victory.

Kate Smith's Song

Kate Smith stampI believe we have, like so many other things, just taken our liberties for granted. We are facing perilous times, and unless we turn our face back to God and seek His wisdom and guidance, we will be a nation apart from God; a nation without hope.

In the lyrics "God Bless America," composer Irving Berlin takes the form of a prayer asking God to bless America by standing with her and guiding her in the darkest of times by the beacon of His everlasting light. Although composed during WWI it has remained synonymous with our freedom.



God Bless America
by Irving Berlin

God bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home, sweet home.

Pray That God Blesses America

We need to continually pray for our nation: God bless America! We desperately need His blessings. There are many nations who don't bless America; instead, they curse it. The United States is comprised of many nations (ethnic groups) that dwell within her, but there are some of those nations that refuse to bless America. They actually curse her, as it is their plan to see her destroyed, but we can bless America. We need to love those people groups and pray for their salvation. Pray they will begin to see that God loves them and this nation.

America, Bless God

We always ask God to bless America, and I believe we should; America needs all the blessings she can get. However, I feel that we as a nation should not forget to first bless God. Why?

America, bless GodBlessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance. Psalm 33:12

There should also be a humbling of our heart and crying out to God in repentance for the wickedness of our transgressions as a nation; then 2 Chronicles 7:14 will be profoundly effective.

...if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Are we a nation that has lost the fear of the Lord? Have we put our trust in man and money and other gods of this world? Are we an island unto ourselves? We need a far greater wisdom than man can produce, and we cannot make it without God. If there's anything we need now, it's godly wisdom.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom... Psalm 111:10a

We need to bless God daily for His faithfulness, His love, grace, and mercy. Bless Him for our salvation and daily deliverance from the evil one. He is the breath we breathe and the song we sing. He is the fiber of our being. He is our all in all!

I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1

Even in the very worst situation God will never leave us or forsake us. We must never dwell on the negativity of the circumstance surrounding us but focus on the victorious outcome that lies ahead. When we trust God to deliver us from the evil one, we become God-centered instead of self-centered. We must praise Him in all things big and small. He is always well-prepared to handle any situation. Too often we feel we can do it apart from God, and we try in our own strength and fail.

Then, after we're totally frustrated, we call upon the Lord. We need to get this scenario right!

I will call upon the LORD, Who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:3

There is nothing that ever takes God by surprise. And I believe the stronger the battle the greater the purpose. That's why Isaiah 59:19b says, "When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD will lift up a standard against him." God does the work if we trust Him and lay our burdens upon Him. We just need to commit ourselves to bless the Lord with all of our being, as He alone is worthy to be praised.

Five Years of Grace

Bless, and don't curseThere has been a five-year grace period since the first warning, and God's desire is to bless this nation, but His people won't pray. Bob felt it necessary to issue this warning once again! Bless America, don't curse her. God has not given up on her and neither can we. Our words have the power to bless or curse, so we need to begin to bless America with our conversation (see Deuteronomy 30:14-20). We don't want God to lift His hand of mercy from upon us.

But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it. "See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil, in that I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the Lord your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess. But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them, I announce to you today that you shall surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to go in and possess.

I call Heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them." Deuteronomy 30:14-20

Let us be a people who cry out to God for His mercy and grace and who, as a nation, return to our First Love in the same way as our forefathers did in the formation of this nation. Let us enter into the blessings of God, and let His light shine upon us to prosper this nation with His peace, love, and truth.

Bob and Bonnie Jones
The Prophetic Ministry of Bob and Bonnie Jones
Website: bobjones.org

[Honeylioness]

A Professor’s Epic Letter to A&E: How are your anti-Christian views more tolerant than Phil’s?

Posted by: David Rufful December 20, 2013 43 Comments

This letter to A&E was published at TheBlaze. It’s a letter from Steven Ruffatto, who is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Harrisburg Area Community College in Pennsylvania. He’s also a former member of the military and a retired police officer having worked for both federal and local agencies. TheBlaze notes that Steven has received the medal of valor from PGPD and serves on the board of directors for Peace Officer Ministries.

Dear A&E,

Thank you for bringing us a show that was family friendly and fun to watch. I greatly appreciated the fact that my Christian family could watch a Christian family on TV as opposed to much of the garbage that is reality TV. Unfortunately, you have done a disservice to Phil Robertson as well as the Christian AND non-Christian fans of Duck Dynasty.

Freedom of speech means that we are all free to speak what we believe. The Supreme Court does restrict some speech. In fact they specifically address such speech that may cause panic or physical injury. The example they give is that someone cannot scream “fire” in a crowded movie theater when there is no fire.

Why, because it would cause a panic and people would get hurt. Did Phil Robertson’s speech meet this criteria set forth by the Supreme Court? No, it did not. The only people who panicked were the A&E executives that decided to pull Phil from the show.

Phil Robertson spoke what he knew to be true according to the Bible. Does that ruffle some peoples feathers because it goes against what they want to do? Yes it does.

The members of GLAAD are free to speak out against Christianity and those that believe in the Bible. How is that speech any different than Phil’s?

Under the U.S. Constitution they both have a right to express their thoughts and opinions. So why is Phil being punished for expressing his opinions? Why are you punishing Phil Robertson for being a Christian? This was not an incident of homophobia or hate speech.

Homosexuality is clearly defined as a sin in the Bible just as other sins are listed. Stating it as a sin does not make someone anti-gay. Phil even stated, “we should love God and each other.”

If GLAAD and the LGBT community expect everyone to be tolerant of their views, opinions, and lifestyle choices, they too must be tolerant of Bible believing Christians, their views, opinions, and lifestyle choices. For A&E to succumb to the pressures of “political correctness” speaks volumes about your true concerns.

However, I would remind you that tolerance is a two-way street.

At this point what is needed is a clarification about your programming and your ant-Christian stance. If you are truly an anti-Christian station, which the move to pull Phil from the show based on his Christian beliefs reveals you to be, please be up front about it. You will most likely lose viewers based on this incident.

However, do not for a minute believe that you are losing viewers because of Phil’s comments. You will lose viewers due to your reaction to his comments.

Therefore, without clarification from A&E that you support Christians and Christian beliefs as much as you support GLAAD and the LGBT community, then “As for Me and My House We Will No Longer Support or Watch A&E.”

Respectfully,

Steven D. Ruffatto

youngcons.com/a-professors-epic-letter-to-ae-how-are-your-anti-christian-views-more-tolerant-than-phils/

[Honeylioness]

Sent: Tue, Dec 17, 2013 10:46 AM

From: Mom

wwhen you have time read this word. I think much of it applies to both of us. As people with a strong prophetic gift (whether you feel it or not, you have it) we too, need encouragement. What is happening at work, is definitely from the enemy, not from the Lord, so do not give up. We, God's daughters will prevail!! And I know fore myself, it feels very difficult, but hang in there Baby, our time is close at hand. Love you much, Mom

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Chuck D. Pierce: Rend the Heavens and Let Prophetic Revelation Fall! Key Prophecies for Now!

Newsletter dated December 16, 2013:

Dear Advancing Saints:

During this season, there is lots of spiritual activity in the atmosphere! This is a time to prophesy. Recently, I was a leadership meeting and the statement the Lord had me share was:

"The gifts that Yeshua left in the earth realm to enforce His authority were apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, and evangelists. The gift that gets controlled or stopped, which hinders the others from coming into fullness, is the prophet's gift and authority. Apostles will attempt to build a pattern without present revelation, and end up building man's model."

The Lord has been falling on us in our worship gatherings with prophetic revelation! Receive this revelation from this portal to your heart:

Watch the Shaking! A New Path Form!

New songs break old cycles. Here is a Song of the Spirit from James Vincent:

And it's not only happening above us, but it's happening beneath us.
The foundations of the earth are being shaken,
And there is a reckoning in the deep,
The Lord's power and His Might is going to be the only thing standing after this fight.
Just the same way David stood before Goliath,
And said one of us is going to be left standing and it's going to be me,
It's going to be for the One who lived forever,
Who lives eternally and you are going to fall before me this day.
Oh the reckoning – it's happening beneath our feet,
It's happening beneath our feet,
It's happening beneath our feet.
Watch the shaking, watch the shaking, watch the shaking, watch the shaking!

The Lord says, "Some of you are moving down and you are taking layers in the ground where iniquity has dwelt in the land that I've caused you to have. Not only move up, but also move down. Even look at stocks that have been linked with what has been mined from quarries. Look at quarry stocks, and look at investments that are linked with true mining, for I am going to move on mining systems in this hour.

"I am stirring the nether springs; I am stirring the healing waters of the nether springs of this earth. Look! Look! Look! There are treasures hidden in that darkness that I am stirring, healing waters to bring forth in this hour. I'm going deep underneath and there's healing springs that have never sprung up. There's mining structures that have never brought forth. I am sending whirlwinds down in the earth as well as stirring up the powers that have held back and covered over the resources that have been hidden."

There is a path ahead that will shake open for you to be sent!

There has been necessity for us to cut open paths on the ground as well as on the roof of the Global Spheres Center (pictured here). This big, old building's ceiling is carrying lots of ice. Pray for us – that the heavens clear. We need a new roof, but that is a different project for a different time.

Doors and Bees, and Paths, Oh My!

Not only is this season about doors and bees, but it's also about PATHS! We need to understand that there will be situations in your life when you are going to have to wait until your path from last season is connected to the path for this season. You also must know that you are going to have to actually form the path through worship. You can't just jump in and say everything is formed, but you will need to worship!

Don't try to go forth in the same way that you've always gone forth. Just as with the path you see, you will have to break up ground that needs to be broken up. You have to break up slippery places where you could slip in days ahead.

Once you've done your part, sit down and rest and wait till God puts the other piece in place. Don't try to do it all; don't try to do more than you should. Even use other paths that others have formed. Let God order the connections necessary for your breakthrough! Allow the Lord to start you, new and fresh. Let Him add to you; let each gift that is necessary to be aligned come into your path for this season.

This is a key time of watching, entering in, and watching how God sets our course ahead. For the Lord says, "I will cause your path to connect where it needs to connect this season. I will cause you to move forward. I Am paving the way for you to become victorious! Things will get lighter and lighter and lighter – do not fear the darkness!"

Father, we thank You today not only for the door, we thank You not only for the honey of the land, but we also thank You that You will form a PATH to get us through the door and into the honey of the land.

Vision – A Whirlwind Released from the 3rd Heaven on December 11, 2013

(From Marty Cassady, Anne Tate, Chuck Pierce, Janice Swinney, Dee Dee Roberts, and Elaine Priestly):

I just saw a whirlwind released from the 3rd Heaven – the highest Heaven where God is seated on the Throne. And that whirlwind is totally encircling the 2nd Heaven. I don't know what's going on, but during these 10 days something is breaking!

The Lord is releasing a whirlwind over Washington, DC. It is a day of turning; things are turning, thrones are turning over, and power is shifting. Things are shifting in Washington DC. The King is going to be enthroned! And over Rockefeller Square in New York, we say a whole new re-alignment of the structure of economy in this land is now turning. I Am, and what is been held up now and held back will start being given over. Lord, we decree it today!

There's a new news to report; there will be new news to report. There will be a shift in the media it will be right to say that God is God and every man a liar. God will be true and every man a liar! And I saw that same swirling over Mayo Clinics and over Johns Hopkins Universities, and over the major hospitals and the learning medical institutions in this Nation.

God says, "My whirlwind is being seen over them and there will come a new rule of righteousness in medical study; in experiment into the healing industry in this land. My healing will rule and will reign in those structures!"

And all of those ruling forces over that Obamacare and that insurance structure that's stopping I AM, Jehovah Raphe, from rising up in this land, we say today there's a new breakthrough! You'll begin to see that whirlwind taking out your enemy!

There's a catching up over Kansas; a catching up over Kansas. And the Spirit of God is going to rise out of Kansas and in other places, in DC., and will say what is necessary to be said this hour. We loose revelation, we loose words that produce whirlwinds and we declare they are being re-deposited over the Federal Reserve System. We say let Your whirlwind of words begin to come down and deposit revelation where it should be.

"For I am your spin doctor! I am spinning today over the regions of this earth that need to be corrected. I am blowing away, by My Spirit, those things that have held you captive and I am establishing My Spiritual government over those things that need healing and need release! ...Jump into the grace of this spinning force and go with Me and land at a new place!

"I am bringing a shaking underneath the mountains and I am causing it to fall. I am breaking and shaking underneath those mountains to turn up those things that have been hidden. Those things that need to be exposed, I Am exposing.

"For this is a time that I am beginning to cause My people to come up, and to come up and over; this is a time I'm calling you to come up and over. And those things that have stopped you, those things that have kept you back, I'm shaking them off of you. I'm causing them to shake underneath your feet. I'm causing you to step right through, so you begin to see a vision of what I'm doing, because I'm breaking those old molds off of you.

"I'm breaking those old impressions off of you; I'm removing that old thing you need to shake off. You need to let it go because I'm putting you to the top of the mountain. Some of you are rising, some of you are coming up, some of you are moving into a new realm. There's new dimensions to begin to see, and I'm causing you to see, break open and begin to see through those dimensions. Let Me restore, let Me renew, let Me bring forth a new value in you!"

The Next 10 Days Are Critical!

"Over the next 10 days I will call you to a certain night watch that will uncover that which has kept you from taking ground in past seasons. When I call you in that one hour, stand before Me, sit before Me, lay before Me and watch Me give you strategies that will uncover ground that has been held back and release supply that could not be released."

I see the Lord lifting depression, that thing which has held you down during this season. Instead of saying, "I despise this time of season," He is saying, "Like Mary, let it be unto Me, because the angel of the living God will come and He will overshadow you." And even now as this word is being released He's overshadowing you and the depression is breaking and you'll no longer be depressed but you'll be exalted by the very Presence of the living God!

We ask for an overshadowing of Your glory realm that breaks oppression, depression, and how we have been laid out and suffered in the last season.

The Ayin (this decade) Season is a Shifting Season for New Vision!

The Lord is saying to go back to the beginning of this decade. The Word of the Lord starting at the shift of this Ayin season which would be right at 2009 September.

"I was shifting a season at that time – an Ayin season for you to see in a new way and gain new vision. But some of you are hanging onto old structures that are hanging onto you. Those things are clouding the path ahead. And in this year of the PATH, cut loose what is necessary to let go of, so you so you can see your path very clearly. Shut the door completely to the old, so you are walking in confidence in the new. Shut the door to even your old way of worship, your old religious structures, and your old visions systems. Shut the door to it and advance!

"Even that cloud that has been around you. I am going to give you energy to leap above that cloud so you can see. Leap quickly, look quickly and see your path. For when you return to the place you presently are you will say, 'I got a glimpse but I'm not sure how to get there.' The more you leap, the easier you'll see, and you will walk into the place that I have for you. These next eight weeks are key for you walking into this place. So leap, see, leap, see, and the way will open up.

"This is a season that as you leap you are going to begin to see what it's like to fly. Other generations have been earth bound, but this is the generation that those that have gone before you are believing that you will fly – that we will send you forward and you will fly through the heavens.

"Don't you know you were created, shaped and formed with those hinds feet to leap from one high place to the next? In this season, as you begin to leap from revelation to revelation, the leaping from revelation to revelation will cause you not only to see clearly and sharply what's in front of you and the future I have planned, but will also clear up the questions of the past. There has been a path and a plan from before you were. This is the season to begin to leap and see, leap and see, and have an understanding of what your life was purposed and planned for from the beginning."

Father, those that were leaping from one high place to the other, and one of the ruling spirits of the high places knocked them down and caused them to fall in the cracks, we decree right now we're pulling people up out of the cracks. We decree we're pulling them up out of the cracks. We're decreeing that we're dusting off and repairing their hind's feet.

Lord, we ask today for a repairing of our hind's feet and to pull us up out of the crack that has tried to hold us captive when we were leaping from one place to the next.

"Some of you are surrounded by death. Some of you keep saying, 'If I just get out of this place of death I can do this or I can do that.' But even in a place of death you can establish the Presence of the Most High God!

"I Am the Ancient of Days over your life. I have wisdom that is beyond any modern structure that you are contending against. Even the world is trying to wear you down and cause your mind to be weary at this time. But I am raising you above the world's way of thinking, and in raising you above; I am seating you next to Me.

"Do not lose your joy in the midst of this warfare that you're in. For in the raising up, I will cause you to have wisdom that can dismantle every demonic host that are assigned to wear you down. Do not grow weary in that circumstance that you are having to tediously contend in. Continue to contend and I will show you the strand of revelation that you need to defeat your enemy."

Vision of Wall with a Sparrow WATCHING!

Now let me leave us with this. Not quite two weeks ago I was sitting in my office and I had a vision. A sparrow was on a wall, looking very intently. The season had changed and it was cold. All of a sudden, Psalm 84 came to my mind:

"How lovely is Your tabernacle, O LORD of Hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the LORD. My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young - even Your altars, O LORD of hosts, my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they will still be praising You."

"Watch carefully over these next several weeks for a season is now upon you of great change. Change is now here with you, and in the midst of this change watch carefully, for it will affect greatly your young and your young's young. Watch carefully! For this is a time not only to position yourself in My tabernacle and find your place in praising Me, but in the midst of your positioning yourself, watch carefully, for the nest now will change.

"I will change how you have secured your nest, and only from the revelation of My house can your house be built properly. This is a time at this change of season, for you to watch. For the nest that you once had will now change and your young and your children's young will learn to protect themselves in a new way. And you will continue watching from My Tabernacle until the next two generations learn how to watch and build their own nests with Me."

Blessings,

Chuck D. Pierce
Glory of Zion International Ministries
Email: [e-mail]
Website: glory-of-zion.org

[Honeylioness]

Doug Addison: Prophetic Word For 2014: A New Gate Will Open In Heaven


God is opening a gateway into the heavenly realm in 2014 for deeper revelation and greater power. This is the start of a new season, and the drought we have been experiencing in the Kingdom over the last few years is now over. Expect an increase in your spiritual gifts, dreams, visions, and supernatural encounters. This will open the opportunity for you to step up to a new level and see results for your efforts.

After this I looked, and there before me was a door standing open in Heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this." Revelation 4:1

Three Moves of God

We will see the start of a new move of God that will come in phases over the next few years. This year God is breaking a spiritual drought we have been in since 2008. I had a dream where an angel came and told me the humidity level right now is at eight, which is the number of new beginnings.

For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring, and My blessing on your descendants. Isaiah 44:3

The first part of this new movement of God will involve a time of refreshment for those who are weary. You will experience mini-renewals of His presence and gifts in your life. Many people have been suffering from hope deferred for so long that they need to soften up and be recharged.

The second part of this movement will be a new rain of the Holy Spirit that will come upon those that are seeking all that God has for them. This movement will look very strange, as all types of people will begin to be drawn to God. In the midst of this, a new generation will begin to awaken to God's love, power, and acceptance.

The next phase will bring God's power like we have not experienced before. This will be a new level of God's fiery presence and healing. This is a start of a new healing movement with miracles, signs, wonders, and deeper revelation.

Prophetic Words From 2009

God showed me that many prophetic words from the year 2009 that were intended to be fulfilled in 2010 were actually delayed until now. I went back, checked my journal, and sure enough I found many prophetic words in 2009 that never came about that are happening right now. I also got a confirming email from a friend whose prophetic word that I gave in 2009 is now beginning to happen. Go to your journal and look for prophecies or dreams from 2009. Get ready for them to unfold now at a greater level.

Reconciliation Instead of Accusation

The spirit of accusation has been dominating the Church for the past few years, making an unhealthy environment. When we accuse others without trying to find solutions, we must be careful that we are not coming into agreement with darkness over a person instead of God's purposes. One of the names given to Satan is the accuser of Believers (see Revelation 12:10). We need to be very careful to not accuse others but build them up instead. God is releasing a spirit of reconciliation to offset the strong negative accusation. There are many Bible verses that talk about blessing people instead of cursing them (see Romans 12:14).

All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:18

Happy Birthday

This year everyone will receive a new gift from God on his or her birthday. This might be a greater measure of the gifts you already have, new gifts of healing, prophecy, serving, etc. So get ready to receive birthday presents with a greater level of God's presence. You can expect a present of God's presence.

Gifts and Callings Rearranged

In the same spirit of giving, this year God is freeing up gifts and callings that have been given to people who have stopped using them or from people who have gone to Heaven. Many of these spiritual gifts and callings will be given to those who have been humble, seeking God, and have not built themselves up nor have operated in pride. God is lifting up those who have been humble. Some of them are the least expected. Those who receive these gifts and callings will have a sudden acceleration in their life, ministry, or businesses. But people who have been building their lives, ministries, and using others for their own gain will experience decline. God's love is still with them, but they will no longer have the edge they once had.

Jezebel Spirit Exposed

2014 will be a year that the Jezebel spirit will be exposed throughout the Church, government, and businesses. People who have been operating with this divisive and dividing spirit will be revealed. God will be revealing a new strategy to remove the grips and tentacles of the Jezebel spirit which has resisted and hindered previous moves of God over and over.

God's New Agenda

God has an agenda this year to bring healing and reconciliation to people who have been wounded or rejected by Christians. There is such a large number of people who have been wounded by Christianity. This should not be. God's love is for everyone and we must show it to those who need it the most. Quite often these are the ones who might be offended by this or have different viewpoints. God is drawing in the spiritual outcasts right now and dragging a net along the bottom that will pull up people from all walks of life.

In order to be part of God's agenda we must love unconditionally and be willing to walk with people who have been rejected and wounded. Love and lots of grace is required to be part of this new move coming to the spiritually outcast. Yes, God is on the move among the tattooed and pierced, those who are into zombies and vampires, gay and lesbians, new age people, and those of various political parties that are currently not accepted by many Christians.

[Note by Steve Shultz: Jesus said in John 12:32 "...And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all [men] unto Me." It is the Lord's desire and intention to reach into the darkest corners in the earth to draw, by the Holy Spirit, as many people who will say "Yes" to Him. There are no people groups from whom the Spirit will not seek to "woo" many to Jesus.]

God is also moving powerfully among women and promoting many into positions of new authority.

Financial Ruin Has Been Broken

Five years ago the U.S. and much of the world experienced a great financial downturn. One of the largest bankruptcies in U.S. history occurred in September of 2008. We will now see a five-year turnaround from that downturn. God is opening up opportunities right now for people to be repaid for any losses during that time. Also, there are Kingdom financial strategies being released from Heaven that will radically turn your financial situation around if you listen and act.

It is important to not pay attention to negative reports or get caught up in believing we are all going down. This is a time to take action, and it is very similar to what Isaac experienced in Genesis, chapter 26. During a great famine on Earth, Isaac listened to God and took a different direction than what most people were doing at the time. In verse 12 it says that he reaped 100 times during the famine.

Isaac planted crops in that land and the same year reaped a hundredfold, because the Lord blessed him. Genesis 26:12

2014 is a year of God's mercy upon us. God is promoting people who have loved, shown mercy, and not cut down others or driven them deeper into darkness. This is an exciting time to be alive, because if you have suffered, experienced losses or repeated attacks of the enemy, God is repaying you right now. All you have to do is ask and respond. Walk through the new golden gates being opened!

Here's to a year of breakthrough and turnaround. May God richly bless you with every gift you need to succeed this year.

Doug Addison
InLight Connection
Email: [e-mail]
Website: dougaddison.com

Doug Addison is a prophetic dream interpreter, speaker, writer, Life Coach, and stand-up comedian. Doug travels the world bringing a message of love, hope, and having fun! His unique style helps open people to discover their destiny and experience God's supernatural love and power.

[Honeylioness]

Tim Sheets:
Leap Into Your Future – Doors of New History Will Now Be Open

Tim SheetsOn January 24, 2014, we hosted our Annual Prophetic Summit. The speakers were Tim Sheets, Dutch Sheets, and Barbara Wentroble. The following word was given by Apostle Tim Sheets:

God Is Opening Doors

The year 2014 is 5774 on the Hebraic calendar – Ayin Dalet. The Hebrew calendar speaks to us prophetically. The number 4 is the letter Dalet. Dalet is the word for "door," or an open tent flap, or the opening into a new territory. 5774 is also a Leap Year in the Hebraic cycle. Ayin Dalet references a year of open doors – so you can leap forward, that is, a year of open doors so you can spring forward.

God is opening doorsHoly Spirit is going to open doors supernaturally for His people this year to surge ahead. Many in the Body of Christ have had doors closed by adverse circumstances, by demon attacks, by financial attacks, even people attacks, but we come together to declare the word of the Lord.

God is right now opening doors for us to leap forward. He is opening doors for us to surge ahead, and we are now going to run through open doors and spring into our future. We're going to leap over adverse circumstances. We're going to leap over demon attacks. We're going to leap over financial attacks. We're going to spring into hope that is sure. It is steadfast. It is immoveable. We're going to overcome and we're going to reign – demonstrating a superior power in our Kingdom. (Photo by Eric Foltz)

"Arise, And I Will Empower You"

The Spirit of the Lord declares to the Church, "Doors of new history will now be opened. A new movement will now spring forth. A new stream from My throne will begin to flow. It is a pure stream of pure Gospel; for the stream of My Gospel has been diverted and dammed up by those who wanted the benefits of reservoired blessings, but I will now blow up the dams.

"I will have a Gospel that flows and flows freely. My movement will move. It is built to move and it will move. Empowered by fresh downpours, fresh rain – the downpours of Heaven will fill it to overflowing. It will leap to flood stage. It will not be confined by Laodiceans. It shall be a pure Gospel stream that is lit with the fire of My cause, one that I can back with signs, with wonders, and with miracles; one that is not diluted by pride, immorality or greed, one that I can marshal Heaven's army behind, one that I can back with awesome Kingdom power.

God will empower you"And the generations will synergize their efforts together for the revival of ingathering such has not been seen heretofore. I am calling My Gideons to come out of hiding and stop the raiding of My harvest. I have seen you behind the winepress. I have seen your secret toil. I have heard your cries. Now hear Mine. Arise and I will empower you. Arise for the days that are in front of you, and leap into the future that I have ordained for you. (Photo via Empower Yourself/by Jay Moli)

"I will synergize the warriors, the eagle warriors with my remnant warriors, those who have faithfully committed themselves to Me. I will synergize them together now for the greatest move that I have ever released upon this earth. You shall now see and you shall now know that there is a Kingdom that is indeed at hand, and it is an awesome Kingdom. I've seen your heart and I will empower you. You will defeat your enemy, and you will enjoy the spoils of victory. You will say, 'Our enemy has resourced us. Our enemy has poured abundance for us. We have more because of war.'

"A shift in leadership will now come," says the Lord. "A new breed of leaders will be revealed in My Kingdom. The obscure ones who have served faithfully will now receive promotion man has not seen – but I have seen. It will be said, 'Where did they come from? Who are they?' And I will advocate for them.

"I will say, 'These are they who came from My presence. These are they who would not compromise. These are they who would not be muzzled; they would not bow to darkness. These are they who have not been appeasing of humanistic ways with enticing words, but have stood for Me and My words. These are they that did not flinch. These are they that would not bend their knee to blended religion or doctrines of demons. They stood unashamed for Me; now I will stand unashamed for them. I will side with them. I have proclaimed their victory, and now I will oversee its completion."

Divine Alignment Will Spring Forth In Your Life

"Can there be an abundance in Goshen? Can there be plenty in My remnant camp? Watch and see. Great deliverance is coming. New history is coming. Abundance is coming. The set time has come for the war eagle generation of young reformers to partner with the remnant generation, and there will now come a divine alignment. This will spring forth.

Aligned"There will now come a functioning Church in the midst of dysfunction. Multiplied grace is now being poured forth. Bound souls shall be set free. Captives in heart will be delivered. Those blinded by sin and iniquity will be liberated from Hell's bondage as the revival of the ingathering now leaps ahead. The synergized generations in sync with My angel armies and soaked in the fresh rains of Heaven will now leap forward into great revival. It will be a movement that moves in power, in passion, and in purity. I will back it with signs, wonders and with miracles. (Photo via AndyStevensLive.com)

"Notable miracles are leaping forth. Notable miracles are leaping into your region. Notable miracles are leaping into your households. The revival in the womb of My intercessors is now leaping in them. It's leaping from the womb of those in travail. It is now time for the birthing of forerunners who will run. Leap into your future. The door is open!"

Tim Sheets
Tim Sheets Ministries | The Oasis, a CityGate Church
Email: [e-mail]
Website: timsheets.org | oasiswired.org

[Honeylioness]

God's 26 Guards



Here's a message that will bring you chills.

Have you ever felt the urge to pray for someone and then just put it on a
list and said, 'I'll pray for them later'?

Or has anyone ever called you and said, 'I need you to pray for me, I have this need?'

Read the following story that was sent to me and may it change the way that
you may think about prayer, and also the way you pray. You will be blessed by
this...


A missionary on furlough told this true story while visiting his home church in Michigan.

'While serving at a small field hospital in Africa, every two weeks I travelled by bicycle through the jungle to a nearby city for supplies. This
was a journey of two days, and required camping overnight at the halfway point.

On one of these journeys, I arrived in the city where I planned to collect money from a bank, purchase medicine, and supplies, and then begin my two-day
journey back to the field hospital.

Upon arrival in the city, I observed two men fighting, one of whom had been
seriously injured. I treated him for his injuries and at the same time talked to him about the Lord.

I then travelled two days, camping overnight, and arrived home without incident....

Two weeks later I repeated my journey upon arriving in the city, I was approached by the young man I had treated. He told me that he had known I
carried money and medicines.

He said, 'Some friends and I followed you in to the jungle, knowing you would camp overnight. We planned to kill you and take your money and drugs. But just as we were about to move into your camp, we saw that you were surrounded by 26 armed guards.

At this, I laughed and said that I was certainly all alone in that jungle
campsite.

The young man pressed the point, however, and said, 'No, sir, I was not the
only person to see the guards, my friends also saw them, and we all counted
them. It was because of those guards that we were afraid and left you alone.'

At this point in the sermon, one of the men in the congregation jumped to his
feet and interrupted the missionary and asked if he could tell him the exact day this happened. The missionary told the congregation the date, and the man
who interrupted told him this story:

‘On the night of your incident in Africa, it was morning here, and I was
preparing to go play golf. I was about to putt when I felt the urge to pray for you. In fact, the urging of the Lord was so strong, I called men in this church to meet with me here in the sanctuary to pray for you. Would all of
those men who met with me on that day stand up?'



The men who had met together to pray that day stood up. The missionary wasn't
concerned with whom they were, he was too busy counting how many men he saw.


There were 26.




This story is an incredible example of how the Spirit of the Lord moves on
behalf of those who love Him. If you ever feel such prodding to pray, go along with it, you don't know what it can mean to that person.


Nothing is ever hurt by prayer except the gates of hell. I encourage you to
forward this to as many people as you know. If we all take it to heart, we
can turn this world toward God once again. As the above true story clearly
illustrates, 'With God all things are possible'.


More importantly, how God hears and answers the prayers of the faithful.



After you read this, please pass it on and give God thanks for the beautiful
gift of your faith, for the powerful gift of prayer, and for the many miracles He works in your own daily life. Who says God does not move on the earth today?


I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

[Honeylioness]

Man Kills Wife



A Muslim man in Egypt killed his wife because she was reading the Bible and then buried her with their infant baby and an 8-year old daughter. The girls were buried alive! He then reported to the police that an uncle killed the kids. Fifteen days later, another family member died.

When they went to bury him, they found the 2 little girls under the sand - ALIVE! The country is outraged over the incident, and the man will be executed. The older girl was asked how she had survived and she says: 'A man wearing shiny white clothes, with bleeding wounds in his hands, came every day to feed us. He woke up my mom so she could nurse my sister,' she said.

She was interviewed on Egyptian national TV, by a veiled Muslim woman news anchor. She said on public TV, 'This was none other than Jesus, because nobody else does things like this!' Muslims believe Isa (Jesus) would do this, but the wounds mean He really was crucified, and it's clear also that He is alive!

But, it's also clear that the child could not make up a story like this, and there is no way these children could have survived without a true miracle.

Muslim leaders are going to have a hard time to figure out what to do with this, and the popularity of the Passion movie doesn't help! With Egypt at the center of the media and education in the Middle East , you can be sure this story will spread. Christ is still turning the world upside down!



Please let this story be shared. The Lord says, 'I will bless the person who puts his trust in me.’ Jeremiah 17

[Honeylioness]

A drunk man in an Oldsmobile
They said had run the light
That caused the six-car pileup
On 109 that night.

When broken bodies lay about
And blood was everywhere,
The sirens screamed out eulogies,
For death was in the air.

A mother, trapped inside her car,
Was heard above the noise;
Her plaintive plea near split the air:
Oh, God, please spare my boys!

She fought to loose her pinned hands;
She struggled to get free,
But mangled metal held her fast
In grim captivity.

Her frightened eyes then focused
On where the back seat once had been,
But all she saw was broken glass and
Two children's seats crushed in.

Her twins were nowhere to be seen;
She did not hear them cry,
And then she prayed they'd been thrown free,
Oh, God, don't let them die!

Then firemen came and cut her loose,
But when they searched the back,
They found therein no little boys,
But the seat belts were intact.

They thought the woman had gone mad
And was traveling alone,
But when they turned to question her,
They discovered she was gone.

Policemen saw her running wild
And screaming above the noise
In beseeching supplication,
Please help me find my boys!

They're four years old and wear blue shirts;
Their jeans are blue to match.
One cop spoke up, They're in my car,
And they don't have a scratch.

They said their daddy put them there
And gave them each a cone,
Then told them both to wait for Mom
To come and take them home.

I've searched the area high and low,
But I can't find their dad.
He must have fled the scene,
I guess, and that is very bad.

The mother hugged the twins and said,
While wiping at a tear,
He could not flee the scene, you see,
For he's been dead a year.

The cop just looked confused and asked,
Now, how can that be true?
The boys said, Mommy, Daddy came
And left a kiss for you.

He told us not to worry
And that you would be all right,
And then he put us in this car with
The pretty, flashing light.

We wanted him to stay with us,
Because we miss him so,
But Mommy, he just hugged us tight
And said he had to go.

He said someday we'd understand
And told us not to fuss,
And he said to tell you, Mommy,
He's watching over us.

The mother knew without a doubt
That what they spoke was true,
For she recalled their dad's last words,
I will watch over you.

The firemen's notes could not explain
The twisted, mangled car,
And how the three of them escaped
Without a single scar.

But on the cop's report was scribed,
In print so very fine,
An angel walked the beat tonight
on Highway 109.

[Honeylioness]

June 2014



Theresa Phillips: Prophetic Words Over America: "I Will Love You To Life!"



"Dear Church, I have to tell you a mystery!" says the Lord. "I am developing an army of Believers from all across the nation of America to carry the
burden of the nation.

"This band of warriors will be sought out by Me in dreams, visions, and supernatural encounters. Many will receive the mandate while in worship and in intimate prayer. The love for their nation will grow.

"Yes, dear America, I am cherishing you even now," says the Lord of Hosts. "I wept and broke when you despised your land, when you said I had cursed it, for I never cursed America; I love America! Remember, you are still ONE NATION UNDER GOD!

"I can see the Church in America being attacked by the monster that has been
attacking Israel for thousands of years. This attack will be thwarted by an army of Kingdom-dwellers who will humble themselves and pray for the land to be spared! 'Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know' (Jeremiah 33:3); yes, things you do not know UNTIL NOW.

"Yes, My Church, I love you and I have not forsaken you; for I will build you up once again and give you the chance to tear down those spiritual Jericho walls that have been built by enemies of My Church.

Carefully And Lovingly I Have Kept Some Of My Warriors Hidden For THIS TIME

"Church, O Church, can you see it, the abundance of rain? I am renewing hope, I am renewing strength, and I am renewing vision! I am washing you from above. But I did not send disaster in the rain; I did NOT. Our common enemy is trying to disguise himself as ME. I say NO! It is not Me, for I LOVE YOU TO LIFE!

"Renewed Hope! Can you feel it, the expectation of the people?

Carefully and lovingly I have kept some of My warriors hidden for this time. My intercessors...hidden ones...are about to come home from faraway lands. Hidden inside even your own borders... The shores of America will be touched by ones who have held underground Churches in China, Korea, Baghdad, Syria, Russia, Vietnam, and Cuba.

"You will hear of MIGHTY EXPLOITS from small islands across the seas, and you
will say, 'Ahhhhh, so this is IT! Be glad, I Am is sending help.'"

Psalm 121:2 My help comes from the Lord, who made Heaven and earth.

"Receive these warriors, for they will tell their story and will encourage many. Many are in America now, waiting for the invitation from the pastor who is hungry for the nations."

Fresh Wind For The Apostle, Teacher, Pastor, Prophet, Evangelist

"On the fivefold I am pouring out a FRESH WIND!

"The apostle, who is praying to be sent, I will send you. For I am changing the guard to the nations. Yes, many will now be sent to the nations. This is my Joshua Generation...the younger and the elder going together

AS ONE!

"Now to the teacher...I know you know you're called to teach, but...where are you? Where are you? First, I ask you to say out loud, 'Here am I, Lord, send me' (see Isaiah 6:8). Oh yes, I will send you into churches that need you and want you large and small. Despise not the small! I've called many into houses of worship who did not go. This time I say go and your reward will be great," says the Lord of Lords. "The youth and the elder NEED the teacher. Feel that wind now...it's Me sending you!

"Pastors, O pastors, how I weep for you even now. You have shouldered the burden for a long time. Many have grown weary and given up. Many are shut down. I am awakening you! I am touching you again. I'm breathing on you ...awake, and arise and shine, for the Light has come and I am about to give you NEW PLANS to WIN, WIN, WIN souls for the Kingdom. Ha Ha! Fear not, for I am with you. Fear not."

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

"Unto My prophets, those who are known and those who are not, remember, good conquers evil. Never let momentum of the punishment of evildoers become your focus. Focus on the abundance of Life. I will desire to produce life, it is in your tongue. In your tongue!"

Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

"I smell the wine presses making the fruit. Wine, fine wine. Because you have been put to the press for some time. NOW I am releasing to many of the prophets a FRESH NEW FLAVOR of joy and hope to ALL the people. Love to life!

"For a long time you have endured so much, prophets; yes, I know. But you will see; you will see the mystery in your own life. No longer will it bother you, for I am healing many of you NOW!" says the Lord.

"O evangelist! O evangelist, how you have driven to and fro... I am about to give you cities, villages, regions, states, sections, and nations, national exposure and international exposure. You are being refined even now. Get ready, all you in the fold, EVANGELIZE!


"Crusades will emerge all across the land, large and small, and I am in it! Hold your course and deter not from your mandate. If I called you to evangelize, why did you try to pastor? I'm setting it all in order," says Jesus, the Sent One.

"They Shall Fear And Tremble For All The Goodness And Prosperity That I Provide"

"For the word above is being sealed with the Word of GOD. Selah... First of all to the American Church, and second of all, to all MY Church in the nations, I love you."

Jeremiah 33:6-9 Behold, I will bring it [SAY YOUR NATION] health and healing; I will heal them [OUR PEOPLE] and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth.

And I will cause the captives of Judah and the captives of Israel to return, and will rebuild those places as at the first. I will cleanse them from all their iniquity by which they have sinned against Me, and I will pardon all their iniquities by which they have sinned and by which they have transgressed against Me. Then it shall be to Me a name of joy, a praise, and an honor before all nations of the earth, who shall hear all the good that I do to them; they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and all the prosperity that I provide for it.

"O Church, I Love you! I love you!"

My simple prayer after I received this word was: O, Lord GOD, here am I, send even me... In Jesus' name, amen.

Dr. Theresa Phillips

[Honeylioness]

NASA & the Bible


Thought this was pretty amazing and interesting!

For all the scientists out there, and for all the students who have a hard
time convincing these people regarding the truth of the Bible, here's something that shows God's awesome creation, and that He is still in control.

Did you know that the space program is busy proving that what has been called 'myth' in the Bible is true?

Mr. Harold Hill, President of the Curtis Engine Company in Baltimore, Maryland, and a consultant in the space program, relates the following development.

'I think one of the most amazing things that God has done for us today happened recently to our astronauts and space scientists at Green Belt, Maryland ...

They were checking out where the positions of the sun, moon, and planets
would be 100 years and 1,000 years from now. We have to know this so we won't send up a satellite and have it bump into something later on in its orbits.

We have to lay out the orbits in terms of the life of the satellite and where the planets will be so the whole thing will not bog down.

They ran the computer measurement back and forth over the centuries, and it came to a halt. The computer stopped and put up a red signal, which meant that there was something wrong with either the information fed into it or with the results as compared to the standards.

They called in the service department to check it out, and they said, 'What's wrong?' Well, they found there is a day missing in space in elapsed time.

They scratched their heads and tore their hair out. There was no answer.

Finally a Christian man on the team said, 'You know, one time I was in Sunday School, and they talked about the sun standing still.' While they didn't believe him, they didn't have an answer either, so they said, 'Show us, '

He got a Bible and went to the book of Joshua where they found a pretty ridiculous statement for any one with 'common sense.'

There they found the Lord saying to Joshua, 'Fear them not, I have delivered
them into thy hand; there shall not a man of them stand before Thee.'

Joshua was concerned because he was surrounded by the enemy! And if darkness fell, they would overpower them. So Joshua asked the Lord to make the sun stand still!

That's right.... 'The sun stood still and the moon stayed and lasted not to go down about a whole day!' (Joshua 10:12-13)


The astronauts and scientists said, there is the missing day! They checked the computers going back into the time it was written and found it was close but not close enough. The elapsed time that was missing back in Joshua's day was 23 hours and 20 minutes.. Not a whole day.

They read the Bible, and there it was about [approximately] a day. These little words in the Bible are important, but they were still in trouble because if you cannot account for 40 minutes, you'll still be in trouble 1000 years from now.

Forty minutes had to be found because it can be multiplied many times over in orbits. As the Christian employee thought about it, he remembered somewhere in the Bible where it said the sun went BACKWARDS.

The scientists told him he was out of his mind, but they got out the Book and read these words in 2 Kings that told of the following story: Hezekiah, on his death bed, was visited by the prophet Isaiah who told him that he was not going to die. Hezekiah asked for a sign as proof. Isaiah said 'Do you want the sun to go ahead 10 degrees?'

Hezekiah said, 'It is nothing for the sun to go ahead 10 degrees, but let the shadow return backward 10 degrees.' Isaiah spoke to the Lord, and the Lord brought the shadow ten degrees BACKWARD!

Ten degrees is exactly 40 minutes!'

Twenty-three hours and 20 minutes in Joshua, plus 40 minutes in Second Kings make the missing day in the universe! Isn't it amazing?

References: Joshua 10:8, 12-13 and 2 Kings 20:9-11.

Forward this to as many people who you believe would think this is equally as cool.

If God could do this then; how much more can he do for us today, if we only believe in His word.

Never be afraid to try something new.

All I have and all that I am is by the Grace of God!

[Honeylioness]

The 23rd Psalm



This is an eye opener; some probably never thought nor looked at this Psalm in this way, even though they say it over and over again.


The Lord is my Shepherd

That's Relationship!


I shall not want

That's Supply!


He maketh me to lie down in green pastures

That's Rest!


He leadeth me beside the still waters

That's Refreshment!


He restoreth my soul

That's Healing!


He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness

That's Guidance!



For His name sake

That's Purpose!


Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death

That's Testing!


I will fear no evil

That's Protection!


For Thou art with me

That's Faithfulness!


Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me

That's Discipline!


Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies

That's Hope!


Thou annointest my head with oil

That's Consecration!


My cup runneth over

That's Abundance!


Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life

That's Blessing!


And I will dwell in the house of the Lord

That's Security!



Forever

That's Eternity!