MARK 13 RECAP

PRAYER: WE PRAISE YOU LORD.  LET US TELL OF ALL YOUR WONDERFUL ACTS.  GLORY IN YOUR HOLY NAME; LET THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO SEEK YOU REJOICE!  WE LOOK TO YOU AND YOUR STRENGTH; SEEKING YOUR FACE ALWAYS.  ACTIVELY REMEMBERING THE WONDERS YOU HAVE DONE FOR US AND THE PEOPLE IN OUR LIVES; YOUR MIRACLES ARE AMAZING.  YOU ARE THE LORD OUR GOD AND YOU FOREVER REMEMBER YOUR COVENANT WITH US WHO HAVE ACCEPTED YOUR SON.  THANK YOU FOR YOUR MIGHTY PROTECTION.  THANK YOU FOR STEPPING IN AND TAKING CARE OF YOUR CHILDREN, UNLIKE ANY ONE ELSE CAN.  WE WILL PROCLAIM YOUR SALVATION DAY AFTER DAY.  FOR GREAT IS THE LORD AND MOST WORTHY OF ALL THE PRAISE.  IN JESUS' NAME.  AMEN


The entire thirteenth chapter of Mark tells us from the mouth of Jesus, how to live while we wait for Christ's return:

1. We are not to be misled by confusing claims or speculative interpretations of what will happen:

5“Take heed that no one deceives you. 6 For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and will deceive many."


Know the Word!

        2. We should not be afraid to tell people about Christ, despite what they might say or do to us.
9 “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. 10 And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit."


The day TGN focused on this area, I wrote in my journal, "I sometimes get nervous or feel the need to be overly prepared when I speak in welcoming environments...forget opposition."  And 8 days later God told me this, "Rely on My Spirit at all times, speak what I give you only, release the people to Me and move on without regret."
Isn't God amazing?!

          3. We must stand firm by faith and not be surprised by persecution.
13 "And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved..."


Our love for God cannot be contingent on everything going our way.  It's not about that, and if this is your expectation in life, your focus is misdirected and you're setting yourself up for constant disappointment.  This life is about being an active participant in GOD'S WAY!  And all that we do to bring God Glory is being rewarded.  We have more greatness than we can ever even imagine waiting for us.  Let's endure together!

           4. We must be morally alert , obedient to the commands for living found in God's Word.
34 It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. 35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— 36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”


STUDY GOD'S WORD AND LIVE BY HIS INSTRUCTION EACH AND EVERY DAY.


This chapter was not given to promote discussions on prophetic timetables but to stimulate right living for God in a world where He is largely ignored.  Take a moment to think about what changes you need to make, and commit to working on one today, tomorrow, over this weekend and holiday.  Don't turn off, just because you're off.  Make it a consistent priority, in hopes to implement it into your life.


TGN RETURNS TUESDAY, JUNE 1st


TGN is going to take more time to allow those who really want to get this; to get it before moving on so quickly.  So please feel free to reach out to me more, when the Word really hits you in a specific area; requesting another day to really sit with it and put it into action is completely right on point.  This way we allow the Holy Spirit more room to move and do what He does.  The Word is too good to not put in emphasis on the time we need to receive it (some of us just don't get it instantaneously - we need time).

God is Good! And He is seriously looking out for each of us.  Amen

Prepare...

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Mark 13:32-37

No One Knows the Day or Hour

32 “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. 34 It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. 35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— 36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”


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When Jesus said that even He did not know the time of the end, He was affirming His humanity.  When Jesus became a man, He voluntarily gave up the unlimited use of His divine attributes.  The emphasis of this verses, has been a common thread this month; THIS IS THE TIME TO PREPARE.  Our lives are ground for preparation.  No one on this earth knows when that Day is coming but the Father.  No one can predict by Scripture or science the exact day of Jesus' return.  Jesus is teaching us, that PREPARATION, not calculation, is needed from us.
Months of planning go into a wedding, the birth of a baby, a speaking engagement, buying a house, celebrating a birthday sometimes...

Do you place the same importance on preparing for Christ's return, the most important event in your life?

Its results will last for eternity.  This information isn't here to scare you, but to help you put things into a godly perspective.  We have to realize that God's perspective doesn't come naturally to anyone.  We have to seek it, and strive to live from that perspective; which will be different from what we have learned from the world in ALL ways.  Do not postpone your preparations because you do not know when His return will occur.  The time we have on this earth is meant for exactly this; we are the "servants" in the verses above.  God, our Master, has given us each authority to do the work He has assigned us to do.  Some of us live as if the Master isn't coming back.  The Truth is He is, but what will He find?

The way to prepare is to study God's Word.  This includes going to church service  (for many reasons, but concerning only what we're talking about today) to learn when we're able to go; as much as it includes studying it on our own and in fellowship with others outside of the church walls.  Now, if you're not learning anything at the service you attend - you're either not listening OR you need to find another place of worship.  Simple as that.  It doesn't mean to give up on attending altogether.  We are called to be planted in a house of God, but not just for the sake of being planted.  We should be learning and equipping ourselves to bring the Word into every area of our lives and the people in them.

The way to prepare is to live by its instructions each day.

If we commit to doing this, not just when we feel like it, and not just when we're at "ground zero" - but EACH and EVERY SECOND of our EVERY DAY;  Well, then we will be ready.  Even though we will not know the day and time, we will have made the commitment to live and prepare ourselves.  Jesus will not catch us off guard!



PRAYER:  WE GIVE THANKS TO YOU, LORD, AND CALL ON YOUR NAME; THE LORD ALMIGHTY.  WE CALL ON YOUR NAME TO PREPARE US LORD.  TO PLANT, RESTORE, EMPOWER EACH AS THEY NEED, THE WILL TO SEEK YOUR WORD.  TO LEARN YOUR WORD.  NOT JUST TO QUOTE CHAPTERS AND VERSES; BUT TO ACTUALLY APPLY IT TO OUR LIVES.  TO LIVE IT AND KNOW IT'S POWER.  WE REBUKE ALL ATTEMPTS TO MISUSE YOUR WORD.  LET THE REDEEMED OF THE LORD SAY SO!  MAY YOUR SPIRIT CONTINUE TO HAVE HIS WAY IN DIRECTING US TO THE RIGHT TEACHERS.  LET YOUR SPIRIT HAVE HIS WAY IN REVELATION AT THE RIGHT TIMES.  LET YOUR SPIRIT HAVE HIS WAY LORD.  LET US NOT SEEK WHAT WE'RE NOT CALLED TO KNOW; BUT SEE CLEARLY THE PERSPECTIVE OF OUR MIGHTY GOD, AND NOT THAT OF THIS WORLD.  IN THE NAME OF JESUS, MAY EACH PERSON SPEAKING THIS PRAYER INTO THEIR LIFE TODAY BE FOREVER CHANGED.  THE SIZE OF THE CHANGE DOESN'T MATTER, BUT MAY IT IMPACT OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU IN ALL WAYS THAT PREPARES THEM FOR YOUR COMING DAY.  AMEN

Refresh

"God loves each one of us as though there were only one of us to love." St. Augustine.

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Mark 13:28-31

The Parable of the Fig Tree

28 “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it is near—at the doors! 30 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

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Last Thursday, TGN mentioned that God and His Word provide the only stability in our unstable world.  So why is it so hard for us to depend on this stability; to believe in this stability; to trust this stability?

In the above verses, Jesus is continuing to tell His disciples, and us that there will be telling signs that tell of His time approaching.  And as we have discussed before, it's not as important to know when this time is nearing, as it is to be assured that we're ready for this time.  And how can we be assured?  Simply by living this life with God, each second, every day, for as long as we live.  It would be shortsighted of any of us to think that we have it all together, because we don't.  Each day, we should be developing, correcting, enhancing, increasing, and using all that we are to serve God and others.  And not only serving the people we choose to serve, but each and every person we encounter should receive from the Spirit that lives within us.

I was reading the Psalms of David (139 and 69) today, and wanted to share the renewed discovery of who God is.  He is a God who searches us.  He knows us and EVERY little thing we do.  God is fully aware and understands our thoughts, actions and lack thereof.  God is familiar with all of our ways.  God knows the words we're going to say before they are even formed.  God is our edge - He has us surrounded on every side.  God has laid His hand upon us.  God's works are wonderful, and we're each included in His works; so that makes each of us wonderful in His sight, His Son's sight and His angels'.  Even the enemy knows it, just doesn't want us to realize it.

God does tests us, He tests us in order to develop our character.  He tests us for our good.  He test us to rid us of offensive ways that live within us, in order to lead us to the way everlasting.  God doesn't test us with anything that Jesus was sent here to free us from; so let's begin to correct what we incorrectly accredit God for. God is not playing The Game of Life, with our lives.  God's eternal presence is continually active wherever we go.

It's time to stop setting Jesus aside family.  When we sin He's there; just as He is there when we choose righteousness.  He doesn't just disappear because we seek to be disobedient.  He is consistently praying that we will continue in the Way of the LORD Almighty.  When we accepted Jesus, we were bonded together in love, Spirit and truth.  His Spirit is at work within us, making us more like Him with each passing day.  We are each an everlasting child of God; don't you want to work with Him and not against Him?
Our Heavenly Father, is the Father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, He sets the lonely in families, He refreshes the weary, from His bounty - He provides for the poor, He leads forth the prisoners with singing, God forgives our rebellion, God is here to bear our burdens daily, He is the God Who saves; from the Sovereign LORD comes escape from death (He is the only way).  Our God gives power and strength to His people.  Proclaim His power today children of the Most High.  Praise be to God!

Allow this refreshed discovery of Who God is in our lives change something in you today; and let's make a difference in our world today, no matter how small, that will keep us on the road of preparing for the day of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

* And not just for ourselves, let's be active participants in helping other people get set free!

PRAY TO GOD ABOUT WHAT HAS ENTERED YOUR HEART FROM THIS WORD RIGHT NOW.


Additional Resource: H. MacDonald

LOST

Please forgive me, I just spent my day with family and my evening watching my most favorite show in the world; now my head is full of retrospect.  HA!

The Word that we'll jump into next is provided for you below.

Take your time to pray over it, read it on your own - and TGN will get in the mix on Tuesday.

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JESUS' MINISTRY IN JERUSALEM

Mark 13:28-31

The Parable of the Fig Tree

28 “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it is near—at the doors! 30 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

P.S.  I'll miss LOST!

You Are Valued By God

Today, YOU are on my heart.  YOU are an absolute blessing to TGN and I would like to just LOVE on YOU today.

We interrupt our study in Mark 13; to bless the people going after God's own heart.  Your desire and pursuit for His Word, His Face and a relationship with Him is NOT in vain.  It is all worth it.  And guess what?  You are worth everything to God.


I have absolutely no clue what you may be going through today, all week, all month - but I do know that God KNOWS.  And He CARES.  I do know that He is here for you.  I do know He is calling You to trust Him in this area of your life.  No matter how small or big the step - He is calling you into a new stage or/and on a new level.  I do know, this is the time to listen to His Spirit and DO/ACT/MOVE.  God is calling His children.  Do not miss His call to let go of whatever it is, that is in the way of you completely serving Him.  What could that be?

God is the God of increase.  Step into that INCREASE today!!!!!  Increase in hope, increase in faith, increase in love, increase in Spirit, increase in forgiveness, increase in His Glory, increase in smiles, increase in business, increase in your family, increase by stepping out of isolation, increase in dependence on God alone, increase in the right relationships, increase in concern for others, increase in obedience, increase in the Word, increase in self-worth, increase in purpose, increase in boldness for Christ, increase in serving others, increase in parenting skills, increase inhonoring your parents, increase in clarity according to God, increase in your marriage, increase in seeing yourself as God sees you,  increase in righteousness, increase in justice, increase in patience, increase in kindness, increase inTRUTH, increase in consistency, increase in respect, increase in good health, increase in heaven minded thinking, increase in good communication, increase in happiness, increase in moving forward, increase in dreams and vision, increase in compassion, increase in giving, increase in connecting, increase in listening, increase in praise, increase in worship, increase inwisdom, increase in living for God.

INCREASE, INCREASE, INCREASE - ABUNDANTLY!

God is so good!  God wants YOU to live in the anointing of His Holy Spirit.

Today is the day to STOP allowing the ways of the world direct, control and distract you.


Be blessed simply by WHO GOD IS.

Psalm 115 (The Message)

Not for our sake, God, no, not for our sake, but for your name's sake, show your glory.
Do it on account of your merciful love,
do it on account of your faithful ways.
Do it so none of the nations can say,
"Where now, oh where is their God?"

^3-8 Our God is in heaven
doing whatever he wants to do.
Their gods are metal and wood,
handmade in a basement shop:
Carved mouths that can't talk,
painted eyes that can't see,
Tin ears that can't hear,
molded noses that can't smell,
Hands that can't grasp, feet that can't walk or run,
throats that never utter a sound.
Those who make them have become just like them,
have become just like the gods they trust.

^4-9 God is higher than anything and anyone,
outshining everything you can see in the skies.
Who can compare with God, our God,
so majestically enthroned,
Surveying his magnificent
heavens and earth?
He picks up the poor from out of the dirt,
rescues the wretched who've been thrown out with the trash,
Seats them among the honored guests,
a place of honor among the brightest and best.
He gives childless couples a family,
gives them joy as the parents of children.
Hallelujah!

^9-11 But you, Israel: put your trust in God!
—trust your Helper! trust your Ruler!
Clan of Aaron, trust in God!
—trust your Helper! trust your Ruler!
You who fear God, trust in God!
—trust your Helper! trust your Ruler!

^12-16 O God, remember us and bless us,
bless the families of Israel and Aaron.
And let God bless all who fear God—
bless the small, bless the great.
Oh, let God enlarge your families—
giving growth to you, growth to your children.
May you be blessed by God,
by God, who made heaven and earth.
The heaven of heavens is for God,
but he put us in charge of the earth.

^17-18 Dead people can't praise God—
not a word to be heard from those buried in the ground.
But we bless God, oh yes—
we bless him now, we bless him always!
Hallelujah!

The Son of Man is Coming

Prayer: LORD, You are too good.  Thank You for Your Word today.  May it lead each of us to make more decisions and actions in adherence to Your trustworthy commands and ways.  Enlighten us, correct us and guide us with Your love.  In Jesus' Name.  Amen

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Mark 13

The Coming of the Son of Man

24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; 25 the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven..."

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Ask yourself this: "DO I REALLY BELIEVE IN JESUS?"

Now, what are you going to do with your answer?  

Jesus consistently tells us, that even when the earth passes away, the truth of His words will never be changed or abolished.  God and His Word provide the only stability in our unstable world.  How shortsighted people are who spend all their time and energy learning about this temporary world and accumulating its possessions, while neglecting the Bible and its eternal truths!  

Here's one more question for you:  "If today was the day the sun darkened, and the moon didn't give its light; if all of the stars fell and the powers in Heaven shook - What would happen to you?"

Does your answer rest on the Word, or on compromise?

No better time than today to elevate to a new level in your relationship with God.

Be Prepared, and not deceived

Do you need to be rescued, protected, kept, set free? Be specific in your prayer today; the below is just to help you get started...

Father, rescue me, protect me, keep me and set me free!  For you are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.  In the mighty Name of Jesus, amen (Psalm 140, 142).
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Mark 13:14-23

The Great Tribulation

14 “So when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not” (let the reader understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. 15 Let him who is on the housetop not go down into the house, nor enter to take anything out of his house. 16 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. 17 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 18 And pray that your flight may not be in winter. 19 For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. 20 And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days.21 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘Look, He is there!’ do not believe it. 22 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. 23 But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.


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Is it possible for Christians to be deceived? Yes, it happens all of the time.  Man comes up with persuading arguments and proofs to deceive people, people believe, start to live in extremes contrary to God's Word, and they create strong negative and wrong impressions of God and His children.  I hate to say it, but this will only increase as time goes on; and unfortunately, many people will fall away from Christ.  Jesus does not want this to be you!  It is time to stop wasting our time; it's time to use our time properly to prepare ourselves in knowing Who God is and What Jesus commanded of us.  If we are prepared, Jesus says, we can remain faithful.  If we remember that Jesus told us all things beforehand; the most convincing acts should not move us, but be very apparent to us.  If we are not prepared, we will turn away.  This is why God tells us to put on the full armor of God; not just some of it.  Be prepared.
The Life Application Study Bible offers some questions to ask yourself, to penetrate the disguises of false teachers in your life:

1. Have their predictions come true, or do they have to revise them to fit what's already happened?
2. Does any teaching utilize a small section of the Bible to the neglect of the whole?
3. Does the teaching contradict what the Bible says about God?
4. Are the practices meant to glorify the teacher/group or Christ?
5. Do the teachings promote hostility toward other Christians?

It's important to be serious about this walk with God.  Let's not be deceived.

"My Faith"

Prayer:

Jesus, You are my help.  My soul clings to You.  I give thanks to You LORD.  My heart is filled with such gratefulness in having a God as great as You in my life.  Your love endures forever.  You are God of gods, Lord of lords; alone you do great wonders in our lives.  By your understanding, the heavens were made.  You spread the earth upon the waters in the beginning.  It was You, and nothing else.  People try to explain it away but it was You, who made the great lights; the sun, the moon and the stars.  Everything You have Promised, You have seen through to its fulfillment.  And You're the same God today; You never change - so I know that You are seeing through, everything You have promised to me.  Thank You LORD, God of Heaven.  By the blood of Jesus, I am already free from the enemy.  I believe and choose to live in this freedom, the enemy has absolutely NO power over me.  He can try, but MY GOD has already given me the victory.  Satan has no control over my life, he didn't create it - he cannot end it.  LORD, Your Glory is reflecting in my life.  Let the people in my life, those I will never meet, and every spirit know that it is Your hand, that You, O LORD, have done exactly what You said You were going to do.  No one should doubt You.  All curses directed towards Your children are worthless, of NO power; for You said - no one can curse, what You have blessed.  And we are blessed!  In the mighty Name of Jesus, amen  (Psalm 63; 136, 109).

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Part 4 Mark 13:11

Your Faith

(Jesus speaking) ¹¹ "But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit..."

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Jesus did not imply that studying the Bible and gaining knowledge is useless or wrong.  We wouldn't be reading the Good News if we thought that, right?  Before and after His resurrection Jesus Himself taught His disciples what to say and how to say it; and this all came from the Word of God.  Here, Jesus was teaching the kind of attitude we should have when we must take a stand for the Good News; when we stand before people as a testimony for His sake.  We don't have to be fearful or defensive about our faith because the Holy Spirit will be present to set the atmosphere and give us the right words to say.

How do you demonstrate your faith in your life today?  Not only before others, but when you're alone.  When it's just you and God; how do you demonstrate your faith in your thinking, in what you watch, in what you read, in what you do?  This is where the training ground begins.  If you are not living up to your faith in private, how dare you come out to condemn people in public.  God doesn't need our "high and mighty acts of self-righteousness."  What God desires, are a people building a relationship, and complete trust with His Holy Spirit.  From this, can He reveal Himself, what we need to know, and what He wants us to do. 

It's so easy to get emotional when people stand against us because of the God we serve.  I don't know about you, but I've been disrespected several times when it comes to my faith and my God.  I haven't always handled it correctly (I'm overprotective of God, He is too good to be disrespected in my opinion), but I've learned, and I'm continuing to learn that those emotions aren't going to get me anywhere.  Now, the Holy Spirit, will get me everywhere.  All I had to do, and continue to do is make my faith available to Him - and nothing else.  It's not automatic, it's a conscious choice I have to make, at all times, each and every day.

Taking a stand doesn't always have to come from times of persecution and rejection.  Taking a stand and allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us can take place in the simple moments of our daily lives.  Are you ready to allow the Holy Spirit to have His way in building your faith? 

Make one decision today, that you can commit to, that brings increase to your journey...

Persecution

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, according to Your command, I speak life into Your children.  For surely, You will cause breath to enter into the dead parts of our lives and we will LIVE!  We will know that You are the LORD!  I prophesy to the breath, because the LORD God commands, 'Come from the four winds, o breath, and breathe on these slain' by hurtful people, by challenging circumstances, by negative thoughts, by lack of faith, by the troubles that come with living in this world; that we may LIVE.  And live the abundant life that Jesus came to this earth to bring, at ALL times!  Let it run over.  Thank You LORD!  You are so very present for us.  May each child saying this prayer today, take hold of Your outstretched hand in each of our directions.  In Jesus' powerful Name.  Amen.

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Part 3 Mark 13:9-10

Persecution

⁹ “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. ¹⁰ And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations.

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As the early church began to grow, most of the disciples experienced the kind of persecution Jesus was talking about.  Since the time of Christ, Christians have been persecuted in their own lands and on foreign mission fields.  Though you may be safe from persecution now, your vision of God's Kingdom must not be limited by what happens only to you.  Learn about your sisters and brothers in China, who have to meet secretly in order to praise God.  And even with the danger, still pursue fellowship and learning God's Word.  Learn about missionary families who have had guns held to their heads, TODAY, for preaching the gospel of God.  In other parts of the world, our family in Christ face hardships and persecution daily.  Persecutions are an opportunity for Christians to witness for Christ to those opposed to Him.  Some may asked why do we have to go through this?  My question to that is, "Why Not?"  Look at what Jesus had to do for us.

God's desire is that the Good News be proclaimed to everyone in spite of persecution.  There aren't any guns being pointed at our heads; we don't have to meet in secret.  SO, what's keeping us from doing our appointed part in this mission, right here in our own lives?  Where is the fruit for God's Kingdom?

Sometimes, It Is Tough!

Prayer:

Thank You, my heavenly Father for Your faithfulness in my life.  I pray that all who doubt Your faithfulness; and those who are just not aware of how real and faithful you are; that today they are able to bask in full revelation of Your faithfulness.  Thank You for revealing to us a little more each and every day - WHO YOU ARE!  You're faithful!  In Jesus' Name, amen.

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Part 2 Mark 13:9-13

Persecution

(Jesus Speaking) ⁹ “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. ¹⁰ And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. ¹¹ But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. ¹² Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. ¹³ And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved..."

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To believe in Jesus and "endure to the end" will take perseverance because our faith will be challenged and opposed.  Life will not always go as we plan.  Severe trials will sift true Believers from luke-warm believers.  Enduring to the end does not earn salvation for us but marks us as already saved.  The assurance of our salvation will keep us strong in times of persecution, in times of desperation, in times of loneliness... in all times.  God promises to be with us through it ALL.

It will be rough, tough and crazy at times.  But will you trust in Jesus? Or will you run from Him?  Will you hope in Jesus? Or blame Him?

Learn Who the God you serve is AND Persevere! 

He guarantees we won't be disappointed - nothing and no one else can give us this guarantee.

Prepared?

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Mark 13:3-13

The Signs of the Times and the End of the Age

³ Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him privately, ⁴ “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?”
⁵ And Jesus, answering them, began to say: “Take heed that no one deceives you. ⁶ For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and will deceive many. ⁷ But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet. ⁸ For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines and troubles. These are the beginnings of sorrows.
⁹ “But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them. ¹⁰ And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. ¹¹But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. ¹² Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. ¹³ And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved..."

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Peter, James, John and Andrew all wanted to know when the Temple would be destroyed, as Jesus had just predicted in the previous verses.  Jesus being Jesus, told them what they needed to know; He gave them a prophetic picture of that time, including events leading up to it.  He also talked about future events connected with His return to earth.  Jesus predicted both near and distant events without putting them in clear chronological order, because the order wasn't the point.  Jesus wanted to warn His followers then, and He warns us now about the future so that we can learn how to live NOW, in the present.  

Many of the predictions Jesus made in this passage have not yet been fulfilled.  He did not reveal this information for us to waste time on the timing. However, people being people; in every generation have claimed to know exactly when Jesus will return.  Which has already confirmed Jesus' prediction that before His return, many believers would be misled by false teachers claiming to have revelations from God.  It's crucial to know the Word, because only then will you confidently know that Christ is returning on God's timetable, not ours.  Only by knowing the Word will you be able to rebuke and flee from these deceptions.


So how will we know it's Jesus?  According to Scripture, one clear sign of Christ's return will be His unmistakable appearance in the clouds, which will be seen by ALL PEOPLE (13:26; Revelations 1:7); not just a few of the elite.  If you haven't seen it, I'm sure you can bet that it hasn'thappen - because God is not a liar, He is not misleading - His Word is the Truth.  In other words, you will not have to wonder whether a certain person is the Messiah or whether these are the "end times."  When Jesus returns, you will know beyond a doubt, because it will be evident to all ("every eye will see Him").

Jesus revealed this information to His disciples and to us, to help us to be spiritually alert and prepared at all times as we wait on the LORD's return.  Beware of people and groups who claim special knowledge of Christ's return because no one knows when that time will be (13:32).  And be cautious of saying, "This is it!" because how do you know?  But be bold in your total commitment to have your heart and life ready for Christ.

Would you considered yourself prepared, alert, on guard to deception?  Are you so sure of yourself, that you spend your time condemning the world, yet excusing yourself?  This is our time ladies and gents.  Let's use it wisely and follow the directions left by our awaited Savior.  One way to be prepared is to actually live our faith and obedience to the Almighty God. 

Preparation is taking the time to learn, grow and become strong in the LORD by removing the compromises.

Today, take the time to say your own prayer in regards to your preparation...

What Really Matters

Happy Wednesday TGN!  My apologies for the missing TGNs, Monday and Tuesday.  I was spending some fun and much necessary time with my Mom and Sis.  I recommend we all take this time as often as we can, it's valuable.

Now let's get back into the groove of TGN!!!!


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Mark 13:1-2

Jesus Predicts the Destruction of the Temple

¹ Then as He went out of the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!”
² And Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”
 
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The Life Application Study Bible puts things into perspective for us; about 15 years before Jesus was born (20 B.C.), Herod the Great began to remodel and rebuild the Temple, which had stood for nearly 500 years since the days of Ezra (Ezra 6:14,15).  Herod made the Temple one of the most beautiful buildings in Jerusalem, not to honor God, but to appease the Jews whom he ruled.  The magnificent building project was not completely finished until A.D. 64.  Jesus' prophecy that not one stone would be left on another was fulfilled in A.D. 70, when the Romans completely destroyed the Temple and the entire city of Jerusalem.

Let's face it, we're easily amazed and swayed by the appearance of things.  We often base our moods, our outlook, our hope, our dreams, our desires, our goals... on what we can see before us.  But just like the stones in these verses, are many of the things before us = FLEETING.  All things that we give so much of our attention to, all the things that we place so much hope and expectation into; will be destroyed.  None of it will last. 

What will last?  God's Kingdom.  What will last?  What God builds within You.  What will last?  What God builds through you, that which is everlasting.

In this life, there are material things that we need; there are material things that we're blessed to have; there are material things that we want; there are material things that some place HIGH value on.  I am not saying material things are evil.  BUT WHAT REALLY MATTERS IN YOUR LIFE?  Is it just the material things?  Is it just the things of this world?  Is it just this life?  If "Yes," was your answer to each of these questions.  What are you going to be left with when it's all destroyed?

If you lost everything today, how would you go on?
What REALLY matters... - why don't you write down what comes to your mind, so that you know where you've placed God in your life.

 

Prayer:

O, LORD, You are so good!  Thank You Father, not for doing anything specific for me.  I just want to thank You, for being You.  You are the definition of fabulous, amazing, wonderful, outstanding, magnificent, awesome; and the list can go on and on.  You alone are God!  Show the wonder of Your great love today.  You save by Your right hand those who take refuge in You.  Keep me as the apple of Your eye, as I seek my refuge.  Daddy, by Your hand save me from the people of this world whose reward is this life.  For I'm holding to Your promise that I, in all righteousness through my LORD and Savior, Christ Jesus, will see Your face.  Hallelujah!  Amen (Psalm 17).

TGN CELEBRATES GOD'S DAUGHTERS

Your Everything?

Prayer: Father, You know my circumstance.  You know everything I am feeling, thinking and experiencing.  For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous.  Your ear is attentive to our cry.  For I am not exempt from many troubles, but by the blood of Jesus Christ, You deliver me from all of my troubles.  Whether I see or feel it, or not.  I know my God is not a man that He should lie, and I claim the Truth in Your Promises above everything I feel or see.  I call on you LORD and You hear me and meet the need.  To experience this time after time is never less than amazing.  You know exactly what I need every time.  What a mighty God we serve.  You are Strength, this is Your Name.  Like David called out to You, "O my Strength;" I call out to You.  My loving God.  Thank You for going before me.  Thank You for being my shield.  In Your might, let it be known that God rules (Psalm 59,34)!

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Mark 12:41-44 (NIV)

The Widow's Offering

⁴¹Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. ⁴²But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.
⁴³Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. ⁴⁴They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

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In the LORD's eyes , this poor widow gave more than all the others put together, although her gift was by far the smallest.  The value of a gift is not determined by its amount but by the spirit in which it is given.  A gift given grudgingly or for recognition loses its value.  When you give, remember that gifts of any size are pleasing to God when they are given out of gratitude and a spirit of generosity.

We offer God way more than money; so don't just think in terms of how much money you give in tithes and offerings.  We're called to offer/surrender our time, our hearts, our words, our minds, our LIVES completely.  What spirit are you offering up anything to God?  Is it a willing spirit?  Or is it grudgingly?  Is it only because you have to?  Or is it because you desire to?  Do you give to be recognized?  Or so you won't be labeled as "robbing God" or selfish?  Or do you give, simply to honor God for loving You?


I can ask a million questions to get you to think, but I believe you get the point.  Let's take the time today and this weekend to truly search the reasons by which we give.  And then have a conversation with God, so that He can see you through the area(s) of correction.  No matter how generous we feel we are, there is at least one area that we haven't totally surrendered to God.  Maybe it's simply about asking God to reveal this area to you.  Let's be a people of continued, steady development and increase in our faith.

In Jesus' Name.  Amen (IT IS DONE)!

Is This You?

Prayer: Jesus, You are my refuge.  I praise you with all of my heart.  I desire to live to tell of our Heavenly Father's wonders.  As I get to know you more every day, I am glad and rejoice, Most High.  You uphold everything You have created me to be; NOTHING  and NO ONE can take what You have purposed away from me.  You are my stronghold, Jesus.  You have NEVER forsaken those who seek You.  Thank You for not ignoring me.  I rejoice in Your Salvation.  Many people forget God, but I will never stop trusting You above all things and beings.  You are faithful!  In Jesus' Name, Amen (Psalm 9,11).

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Mark 12:38-40 (NIV)

Teachers of the Law part 2

³⁸As he taught, Jesus said, "Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, ³⁹and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. ⁴⁰They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."

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The punishment for these teachers of religious law would be especially severe because as teachers they were responsible for shaping the faith of the people.  But they saddled people with petty rules, while they lived greedily and deceitfully.  Their behavior oppressed and misled the very people they were supposed to lead.

Question today:  Do you recognize any of these motives or qualities in yourself?

Let's be honest before God, repent and pray...

Observe People

Sing to the LORD a new song:

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Mark 12:38-40 (NIV)

Teachers of the Law

³⁸As he taught, Jesus said, "Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, ³⁹and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. ⁴⁰They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."

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Observe others not to condemn; but to really view if their walk is real.  The greatest fakes are caught just by observing them.  Not asking a million questions or looking to catch them in the wrong.  But just observing to see if their walk truly honors what they say they believe.
Here, Jesus again exposed the religious leaders' impure motives.  The teachers of religious law received no pay, so they depended on the hospitality extended by devout Jews.  Some of them used this custom to exploit people, cheating the poor out of everything they had and taking advantage of the rich.  Through their pious actions they hoped to gain status, recognition, and respect.

Jesus warned against trying to make a good impression.  If you go back to King David, when Samuel went to the house of Jesse to anoint the future king, the LORD told him, "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at.  Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 12:7).  These teachers of religious law were religious hypocrites who had no love for God.  True followers of Christ are not distinguished by showy spirituality.  Reading the Bible, praying in public, or following church rituals can be phony if the motive for doing them is to be noticed or honored.  Let your actions be consistent with your beliefs.  Let your actions be motivated to bring the lost into the Kingdom gently.  Let your actions be motivated to edify your sister and brothers in Christ.  Live for Christ, even when no one is looking.

So why observe other people, you ask?

1) Because it's up to you to know who you are surrounding yourself with.  It is no one else's responsibility but your own.  Jesus told the people to "WATCH OUT."  Are you watching out?

2) Observe, because if these individuals are lacking or incorrect, maybe you can help them. We're called to edify one another; not label one another religious.  Many times, we're looking for people to do for us so much, that we don't return the "give" in the areas of their needs.  We're looking for them to do for us, that we don't give them any room to make mistakes.  Many people try to get away with things because they don't think any one is looking; some try, because they don't think people care.  We're called to be a people who CARES.  Let's care for those in the right and in the wrong.  Gently restoring one another.

3) Because you may learn something about yourself in observing others.  I find we often hate something in other people, that is actually in ourselves.  So allow your observations to be an opportunity to take a look at yourself and rid of things that are stagnant or killing you; and build upon the everlasting that is within each of God's children.

4) Observe, because you might gain something you're missing.  Often people walk away from those who are truly living their lives with God, because they're failures are magnified.  That's satan ladies and gents!  Call him the liar that he is - the accuser.  He lives to bring us down.  Let's look toward the Truth of surrounding ourselves with the saints - when we're around those who are really walking their walk with God, the blessings that pour out from them are infinite and great; because that is the Great God we serve.  Them, being blessed, can't help but to bless those around them.  How awesome is that?

Observe and be increased in the goodness of God.

Prayer: LORD, You reign.  Great is the LORD in Zion.  He is exalted over all nations.  Let us praise Your great and awesome Name.  For You are Holy, Holy, Holy!  You are mighty, You love justice and You have established fairness.  We exalt You LORD, our God, and we are honored to worship at Your footstool.  When we call upon Your Name, You answer.  Thank You so much for being the forgiving Father that you are, full of compassion. In the praise of our Savior, Jesus.  Amen (Psalm 99, 135)

Happy Cinco de Mayo!
*Be wise and safe in all celebrations.

Call Us To The Next Level

Prayer: The LORD of all the earth reigns, let us be glad.  Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.  Fire goes before the LORD and consumes His foes on every side.  The heavens proclaim Your Righteousness, and all the peoples see Your Glory.  For you, O LORD, are the Most High over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.  Let Your people believe this and live this.  Let those who love You, hate evil, for you guard the lives of Your faithful ones and deliver them from the hand of the wicked.  Your children rejoice in You LORD, and praise Your Holy Name., Jesus. Amen (Psalm 97).

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Mark 12:35-40 (NIV)

Whose Son Is the Christ

³⁵While Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, he asked, "How is it that the teachers of the law say that the Christ is the son of David? ³⁶David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared:
" 'The Lord said to my Lord:
"Sit at my right hand
until I put your enemies
under your feet." ' ³⁷David himself calls him 'Lord.' How then can he be his son?"
The large crowd listened to him with delight.
³⁸As he taught, Jesus said, "Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, ³⁹and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. ⁴⁰They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."

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In the beginning of these verses, Jesus once again exposes what the teachers of the law lacked... The Truth.  Jesus quoted Psalm 110:1 to show that David knew the Messiah was his LORD; far more than a human descendant, but God Himself in Human form.  The religious teachers wanted the Messiah to remain what they has created him to be.

Many people today use Scripture incorrectly.  They use it to fit what they want to communicate, to support their personal agendas, often times incorrectly and incompletely; instead of allowing the Word to lead them.

How can we hold anyone accountable to the Word of God, when we ourselves pick and choose what we want to obey from it?

I'll continue to say this until the day I die.  There is no better day than today to aim towards obedience in what God has shared with us through Word and Spirit.  There's no better day than today to learn this Word, learn its true context, and allow the Spirit to reveal new revelation to us each and every day.  There is no better day!

I encourage you not to fall into the trap of thinking you know it all, or you know all you need to know; as the teachers of the law did.  Instead become true disciples of the LORD and just soak it all in, at all times; and live it in every moment you have.  Allow this Word to become more than just words on a blog or in a book.  Let it live in YOU as it was created to do.

Can we do this?

Make a declaration!

I"ll start it off: "LORD, I desire Your Word!  I LOVE Your Word.  Guide me in seeking it, let my teachers be faithful to Your message and responsible in teaching it.  Let it live in me, in order to increase me in faith and spirit, and reach those around me.  Don't allow me to fall off the map; but instead show me how to grow in obedience in every thing I do, each and every day I live on this earth.  When I fail, don't let me sulk in self-pity or guilt; but quickly get back up and trust You.  In Your Name I declare that I'm in this with You Jesus, my King.  Amen"

Your turn... in your own words (or use mine if they fit).

Let's take it to the next level!

Burden Free

Prayer: Thank You LORD for this new day! Let us rejoice and be glad in every part of it.  For You are good and so worthy to be praised.  In the Mighty Name of Jesus.  Amen.
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Mark 12:28-34 (NIV)

The Greatest Commandment

²⁸One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
²⁹"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. ³⁰Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' ³¹The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
³²"Well said, teacher," the man replied. "You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. ³³To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
³⁴When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.

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God is not burdensome.  Loving Him, trusting Him, obeying Him; in no way has He commanded anything to lay burdens on us.  Do you know who places the burden?  WE DO!  We add extras to something that God has explained so simply and clearly.  God's laws can be reduced to two simple principles: Love God and Love Others. Think about how you want to be treated when someone loves you.  Think about how you intend to treat people who you love.  These commandments are from the Old Testament (keeping the Old Testament very relevant; Deuteronomy 6:5, Leviticus 19:18).  When you love God completely; with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all of your emotions, and with all your strength;  and care for others as you care for yourself (first truly loving your yourself), then you have fulfilled the intent of the Ten Commandments and every other command given from God.  According to Jesus, these two commandments summarize all God's laws.

Is this ruling your thoughts, decisions and actions?  Be honest with yourself and with God.  Is He loved with everything you are and in everything you do?

This teacher had grasped the intent of God's law, that true obedience comes from the heart; but he missed the fact that it all led to Jesus.  It made sense to him, but he still was missing faith in Jesus.  This is why Jesus told him he wasn't far from the Kingdom of God.  He needed Jesus to get him there.

Do you have Jesus? I'm asking saved and unsaved: Is Jesus Your Savior?  Because if He is, we need to begin to demonstrate this in everything we do, every day of our lives.

Our challenge today, is to ask ourselves in making every decision: "Which course of action best demonstrates MY love for God, MY love for others and MY Savior's presence in our lives?"

Watch how much you learn about yourself, in setting yourself up to recognize who you really are.

I pray freedom from burdens and holy change erupts from each of us through this experience, by the power of the Holy Spirit.  In Jesus' Name.  Amen