The Vault Series: Who’s Your Vindicator: You or God?
Filed under: Biblical Teachings, Godly Principles, Miracles
Current Mood:
Anointed & 
Faith-filled & 
Highly Favored
The entry below is another entry from what I call The Vault Series, which are entries that I’ve written up until about a year on my eJournal at www.NaimaWilliams.com/blog. The entry below was originally posted on August 16, 2009, and though that is the case, the principals and lessons to learn are still relevant to today’s issues. I pray that you’re blessed by it and that the Heavenly Father brings you to a place of fruitfulness, obedience, and an abundant life to the full till it overflows, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
August 16, 2009
“No weapon that is formed against you will prosper;
And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn
This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD,
And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD. Isaiah 54:17 (NASB)
Up until a little over a year ago, I used to be one who always needed to explain my case or would work really hard to vindicate myself during the times of adversity, scrutiny and wrongful accusations. This changed as I began to really grow in the Lord and trust Him at His Word. As a result, the Lord began teaching me how to release my problems to Him and let Him vindicate me. The Scripture Isaiah 54:17 is often quoted by the saints, but are we really letting go of the problem and turning it over to God so that He can vindicate us? When the accusations against us are so damaging and it has the potential of ruining our reputation or defaming our character, do we turn it over to the Lord and trust Him to handle it? Or do we allow the situation to consume us, losing sleep to work diligently in proving our innocence? Before I continue let me interject that by no means am I suggesting you do nothing to defend yourself while another tries his/her best to defame your character and your name. Absolutely not! But what I am saying is instead of you relying on your strength and wit to fix the problem, submit it to God and rely on Him to resolve it.
In Isaiah 54:17, the Lord says the weapon will form, but it won’t prosper, and that EVERY tongue that rises up against us, WE will condemn. Every tongue or every word means just that! This includes every lying word, every derogatory word, every false rumor, every condemning word, every ridiculing statement, every bad name, and the list goes on. Before I proceed, I just want to give a different translation to the same Scripture above:
But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed.
You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you.
These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord;
Their vindication will come from me.
I, the Lord, have spoken! Isaiah 54:17 (NLT)
I believe this translation gives us a clearer understanding of the text. Let’s go sentence by sentence to really sink our teeth into it.
But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed.
This basically is saying there will most certainly be times when evil plots and custom-made weapons will be aimed and fired at you with your demise in mind; however, it will not prosper! The weapon of choice can be any number or combination of weaponry such as exploitation of your weaknesses, mischievous deeds, adding confusion, distractions, sabotage of tasks, projects or ministry, set ups and intimidations so that you’re unable to do the task God told you. This is just a small list of the diverse weapons that one can be used as a destructive force against his/her victim.
Of all the weapons, I believe the deadliest and more often used are words. The Bible says that death and life are in the power of the tongue; thus, people can use words to speak death over your confidence, death over your gifts and talents, death over your self-esteem, death over your ministry, death over your marriage, death over your relationship with your children, death over all general relationships, death over your character, death over other people’s confidence in you, and even death over you and/or your family. Just because no one likes to think about the latter doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Unfortunately you have people speaking all kinds of evil from their mouths without thinking of the damages that can occur from their words. People can use words to try to curse and hurt you, defame your character, or to simply tear you apart.
Words are so important that Jesus said in Matthew 12:36, “But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment” (NASB). So if we are to give an account on every idle word, how much more are we accountable for every intended word? Those words that we thought about and spoke it even though we knew it would cause strife, division, harm, hurt or confusion? Matthew 12:36 is a Scripture we should always keep before us. Another one is James 3:8-11 which says, “But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?” With that said, which would you say describes what normally flow from the fountain of your mouth: fresh or bitter water? This is something we should keep watch over all day, everyday!
You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you.
As we mentioned earlier, the tongue is the most deadly weapon of them all, and unfortunately, it is this weapon that is commonly used today. Additionally, when this weapon comes in the form of an accusation, catastrophic affects can occur, even to the point of ruining another person’s life. An accusation can cause a person to lose several vital things such as their job, their marriage, their business, being shunned or exiled from their church or community, and the list can go on. Major damage can be done through one accusation, and more often than not, the accusation itself was said out of someone’s jealousy, resentment or anger.
I believe that everyone has been wrongfully accused at least one time in their lives, and if you haven’t, just keep living. In Revelation 12:10, Satan is referred to as an ‘accuser of the brethren’; thus, the spirit of accusation comes from the enemy. I can tell you that I’ve been attacked through wrongful and often painful accusations on more than one occasion. However, what I’ve found is that usually the accuser is projecting on to me what they themselves have been known to do. Additionally, almost every time I’ve been accused, I’ve found that the accuser is actually doing the very thing that he/she is accusing me of doing, me. I honestly cannot think of a time when both or either wasn’t the case. I’ve always found that quite fascinating.
During times of wrongful accusations, remember that Jesus was also accused of a lot of things.
Jesus was accused of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub (Matthew 12:24-27)
Jesus was accused of being a drunkard and a glutton (Matthew 11:18-19, Luke 7:33-34)
Thus, remember that you are in good company when you’re wrongfully accused; as there were many prophets and apostles that were persecuted and wrongfully accused during the Biblical times. And guess what? So is the same today! True men and women of God are often persecuted and accused and Jesus warns us about this in John 16:2-3, Jesus says, “They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God. These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me.” We are living in these times now so when these things begin to happen to you, resist the urge to justify and vindicate yourself, and instead keep your focus on God. He will illuminate the truth and direct your steps on how to proceed. And remember that His way is ALWAYS better than your way, so give it to Him and let Him lead you to victory!
These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord;
Some of us may have worked jobs that didn’t pay as high as we’d liked; however, the benefits were bar none and more than make up for the lesser wage. I believe it’s said that government jobs offers the best benefits. I really don’t know because I’ve never worked for the government, but I have had jobs that offered awesome benefits, from having NO co-pay nor deductible for medical to having unlimited sick days. Well, as children of the Mighty King, we have a great and mighty inheritance which comes with a slew of awesome benefits. One of the countless number of benefits we have is mentioned in the next line below.
Their vindication will come from Me.
Here are a few definitions I copied/pasted from an online dictionary:
(1) to set free : deliver; (2) avenge; (3) a : to free from allegation or blame b (1) : confirm, substantiate (2) : to provide justification or defense for : justify c : to protect from attack or encroachment : defend; (4) to maintain a right to.
Any way you slice it, God has us covered. He will do whatever He needs to do and whatever the situation requires. He will set free and deliver us, avenge us, set us free from allegation or blame, confirm and substantiate us, provide justification or defense, justify us, protect us from attack or encroachment, defend us, or maintain our right. God Himself will put you in a position that silences your accusers, but the condition is that you must remain in what I call the ‘blessed’ place. I believe Psalms 91:1 says it better, “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Don’t allow the accusations to get you so upset that it causes you remove yourself from the ‘blessed’ place because that’s exactly what the enemy wants to do. Instead remember that God is your Vindicator. Psalms 135:14 says, “For the LORD will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants.” If you are His servant, then this is part of your inheritance. Remember this and wait on the Lord!
I, the Lord, have spoken!
Is there anything that needs to be said? In Isaiah 55:8-11, the Lord says,
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth and making it bear and sprout, and furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; so will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.”
To wrap things up, the most powerful thing you could ever do is to abandon your own power and rely on God’s. The Bible says that they who wait upon the Lord shall never be ashamed. I can certainly attest to that! Once I release the matter into God’s hands, He’d always silence my accusers in one way or another. He will make it so that the hidden agendas and impure motives are brought to surface (no longer hidden) and the truth becomes absolutely apparent and irrefutable. These are the things He will do for His children, and in the case where the opposing parties are also children of God, remember that our God is a just God. Hebrews 10:30 says, “For we know him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.” Also, in Proverbs 24:29, it reads, “Do not say, “Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.”
In closing, it behooves you to understand that the closer you get to God, the more attacks you will have against you, your ministry, your family and your loved ones. The more humble you become, the higher God will exalt you, and the higher God exalts you, the more people will try to knock you down. So instead of getting bent out of shape by lying tongues, persecutions, and accusations, keep yourself in the secret place of the Most High so that you can abide under His shadow. Do not say, “I will repay evil”; Wait for the LORD, and He will save you (Pro. 20:22). Lastly, remember the Beatitudes, specifically the ones toward the end (Matthew 5:10-12):
“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you,
and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great;
for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. “
Original post on www.NaimaWilliams.com/blog on August 16, 2009
The Vault Series: Amusement Park Faith
Filed under: Godly Principles, Inspirational Articles
The entry below is another entry from what I call The Vault Series, which are entries that I’ve written up until about a year on my eJournal at www.NaimaWilliams.com/blog. The entry below was originally posted on August 28, 2009, and though that is the case, the principals and lessons to learn are still relevant to today’s issues. I pray that you’re blessed by it and that the Heavenly Father brings you to a place of fruitfulness, obedience, and an abundant life to the full till it overflows, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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August 28, 2009
Yesterday morning while in the shower the Lord showed me something that was pretty neat.
Have you ever been to an amusement park?
Have you ever got on any rollercoaster rides or any other ride that was pretty danger?
It’s so funny how we’re able to stand in the blazing hot sun, dripping with sweat, waiting on an extremely long line in order to get on a 5-minute ride. We sometimes stand in line for 45 minutes or more just to experience the thrills that the park promises through their advertisement. While we wait, we’re either chatting with our friends or family members with us, or we’re eating the over-priced food we bought at the park or we’re downright complaining the whole time we wait. Then, once it’s finally our turn to get on the ride, we become excited to get on the mechanical ride that promises shrills and thrills and outright terror.
Let me ask you a question: what do you believe is the driving force behind our willingness to go through so much trouble just to get on a 5-minute ride? Furthermore, why do you believe we’re absolutely trusting of something that clearly claims no liability should something go wrong, using phrases like “Enter at your own risk”? Let’s face it, we usually don’t know the integrity of the person operating the ride, and we don’t know if the actual ride itself has been properly maintained; yet we’re so trusting of this ride that we’re willing to risk our own lives as well as the lives of our children. Why do you think this is? Moreover, can we say that the same confidence and trust we put into a ride we have no knowledge of is that same level of trust and confidence we put into a God we claim to love and serve?
SELAH
In order for us to step one foot onto the ride, it is necessary for us to have complete faith and trust in the ride as well as the person(s) who operate the ride. Just because you don’t actually say that you do trust these things, your actions say you do because if you didn’t trust it, you wouldn’t get on the ride neither would you let your children get on it. Let me ask you a question: can you say that so is the same in your relationship with God? Can you say that though you don’t physically see Him and though you don’t know all of the intricacies involved in your situation, that you still step out and have complete faith and confidence in Him who can do all things?
As I am standing in the shower in fellowship with the Lord, I began to experience sadness. The sadness came from the complete and utter insult it is to God for His people to have more confidence in a mechanical thing than in Him. I seen how we’re so willing to trust in something that screams “I don’t care about you or your children, neither will I be responsible if something happens to you”; yet we want God to jump through hoops to prove Himself to us, demanding that He tells us what He’s going to do FIRST before we decide to believe, follow and trust Him. How insulting is it to God, the one who is the Creator of heaven and earth and all therein, that a mechanical ride should receive more trust than the Almighty Creator receives from His own people. How do you suppose you would feel if this were the case with your children? Unfortunately, this sometimes can happen with our children, especially in teenage years when the same child who you nurtured, protected, and loved, now believes in anything and everything other than you. At the very least we would be hurt and upset by their unconcern for all of the sacrificed we’ve made on their behalf.
Can you imagine how your life would be if you focused all of your faith, all of your trust and all of your confidence in God? Our faith is required throughout our walk with Christ; for without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). The Lord also commands our trust in Him; for we’re told in Proverbs 3:5-6 to, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” In addition to this, we must keep in mind that God is a jealous God (Exodus 20:5); as He wants no other person or thing in front of Him. He says in Isaiah 42:8, “I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols” This includes, but is not limited to, a celebrity, leader, spouse, child, job, career, friend, substance, family, people, money, material things, mentor, power, etc. In essence, anyone or anything can be turned into an idol, wherein all of your trust, time, faith, dependence, etc is wrapped into this person or thing.
Before I continue further, let me explain that idolatry can easily occur without even knowing it at first. We may think that we’re just really expressing of our love for someone or thing; however, we’ve somehow exalted this person or thing above all else in our lives to the point where everything else is secondary to it—including God. The transition from love and concern to idolatry is often done in such a subtle way that we’re not even aware when it begins. This is why we should continually examine ourselves to be sure that we haven’t inadvertently turned someone or something ahead of God as well as ensure that we’re truly letting the one true God sit on the throne of our hearts and lives. Like the Psalmist in Psalms 139:23-24, we should desire the same of God expressed in this Scripture, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Back to faith, God demands and requires our faith and trust in Him above all else; for His ways and thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8). We as humans are absolutely limited and do not know all that is in our future neither do we know all things in general, which is why we must depend on He who knows ALL things—present, past and future! This is why our faith and trust is critical. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please God, for he who comes to God must believe that He is.” This is how our relationship with God began; for we confessed with our mouth that Jesus is Lord and believed in our heart that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9-10). Thus, it is by faith that we were saved, having first heard the Gospel. It is by faith we received the Holy Spirit, which was sealed in us the moment we received Christ as Lord and Savior. It is by faith that we receive from God, period. Paul explains this in Ephesians 1:13-14:
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.
In the Scriptures listed above, do you notice that the Apostle uses words such as faith, believe, and trust? Jesus is the Author and the Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2); and in essence, the same faith we used to become saved is the same faith we must use to grow in the things of God. We cannot begin our relationship with faith and then somewhere down the line decide that faith is no longer needed. Au contraire! That is not the case and thinking such a thing is a set-up for failure; for the carnal mind is enmity against God, and it is the Spirit of God that changes us from glory to glory (Romans 8:7, II Corinthians 3:18). We cannot perfect our faith and holiness on our own; for only the Spirit of God can perfect such work. Look at what the Apostle Paul says about it in Galatians 3:2-3:
“I would like to learn just one thing from you:
Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard?
Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?”
I believe this Scripture makes it extremely clear that we cannot change ourselves or rely on our efforts to change nor increase in holiness and faith. This can only be done through the Gospel of Christ; for therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith (Romans 1:17).
It’s amazing how we can learn about the propensity of our faith and trust by looking at how we respond to something as trivial as rides at an amusement park. This certainly emphasizes Romans 12:3 which state that God has apportioned to each man a measure of faith. The measures of our faith may vary from person to person; however, God desires that everyone grows in greater trust, dependence, adoration, and faith in Him. As for me, those who know me know that I long to have absolute unmovable and unshakeable faith. I think my wording of it goes more like, “having that off-the-chain, crazy, ridiculous, just don’t make no sense, girl you crazy kind of faith.” The kind of faith Moses had when he held up his staff (stick) over the Red Sea and it parted so that he and the children of Israel was able to cross on dry ground (Exodus 14); or the faith Joshua had when he dared asked God to make the sun standstill and God honored his seemingly ridiculous request (Joshua 10:12-13). Abraham hoped against hope when he believed that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken (by God – Romans 4:13). The kind that the prophet Elijah exuded when he asked God to not let it rain for 3 ½ years and God shut up the heavens from giving rain (James 5:17-18).
The Bible says in II Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” Well, I’ve determined that I will be counted amongst those whose heart is loyal to God. As for my desire to have unmovable and unshakeable faith, well, today during my time with God, He reminded me that in order to have unshakeable faith, our faith must first be shaken; and in order to have unmovable faith, our circumstances must threaten, and at times even succeed, to move us. To be strong in the Lord, we must go through strong opposition. To have a complete trust in the Lord, we must be put into situations that challenge our trust in God and our belief in His promise. Every last one of these qualities must be tried and tested, and there’s no way to escape that in our pursuit of God; for we know that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us (Romans 5:3-5).
In closing, the next time you visit an amusement park, think about amusement park faith. And the times in your life when you feel like you cannot go through the tribulations needed to yield the kind of faith, trust, confidence and love in Christ you yearn to have, think about your last amusement park experience. For if you’re able to put your faith in people who cares nothing about you and warns that you may even get hurt on the mechanical ride you know nothing about—and as you stand on an incredibly long line in the blazing hot sun with hurting feet and a sweaty T-shirt all for the sake of a 5-minute thrill that may cost you your life—then surely you can put your complete faith, trust, and confidence in the Almighty God who is you’re your Heavenly Father who loves you with an everlasting love and who promises that those who wait upon Him shall NEVER be ashamed!
“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away”
Matthew 24:35
God bless YOU!
Original post on www.NaimaWilliams.com/blog on August 28, 2009
Highlights from Initial Sermon: Before You Go, You FIRST Got to Leave
Filed under: Godly Principles, Prophetic Word, The Faith Walk, What Does the Bible Say About That?
Are you ready to go to YOUR next level?
Your Promised Land,
Your destiny,
Your place of blessing,
Your divine purpose?
Well, the Lord truly desires that you enter AND possess the land that He’s prepared ESPECIALLY for you (your destiny).
B U T
Before you can go, you must FIRST leave!
Leave what?
Read the sermon highlights taken from my initial sermon entitled “Before You Go, You FIRST Got to Leave”. Learn what you must FIRST do in order to successfully pursue and walk into your God-given destiny! Visit www.sgomonline.org or simply follow this URL path to go straight to the article: http://www.sgomonline.org/faithfood/2010/06/24/before-you-go-you-must-first-leave/.
You Will Certainly Be Blessed!
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Christian Masons???
Filed under: Biblical Teachings, Deliverance, Godly Principles, Marriage, Other, Our children, Testimonies, The Faith Walk, What Does the Bible Say About That?, Word of Exhortation
Current Mood:
Anointed & Faith-filled & On Fire 4 God! & 
Righteous Indignation & Blessed & Triumphant
Do you know a Christian who’s contemplating becoming a Mason?
Do you believe something is conflicting between Christianity and Freemasonry, but you just don’t know the facts?
An elder at my church wrote a very enlightening article that I would like to share with you today. The article is titled Christian Masons??? And I’ve provided an excerpt of it followed by the link to the full article. Unlike several other articles written on this topic by people of one persuasion or another, this article provides documented truth and facts without emotionalism. Therefore, you know that the information you’re reading is based upon truth and facts and not just one person’s opinion. It provides you with clear, legitimized truth in a very digestible manner.
I’d recommend forwarding this article to every believer you know, especially those who are considering becoming a Mason (or even Eastern Star). For the Christians whom you know who aren’t considering becoming Mason, send it to them anyway; as this will be something they can contain in their witnessing arsenal. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe (Ephesians 1:17-23). I pray this in the mighty, matchless name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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Christian Masons???
Written by Elder Jonathan L. Williams
Should A Christian Become a Mason?
Should a Christian be a Mason? This is a seldom discussed topic in the Church, even avoided by some. The average parishioner might be astounded to know just how many fellow worshippers have ties to freemasonry. Many merely view freemasonry as a social organization with benevolent causes seeking to promote self-enlightenment and development, contribution to society, and friendship among the brotherhood/sisterhood. Others contend that is evil or are cautious of any mysterious organization. The purpose of this article is to provide biblical perspective to the issues pertaining to freemasonry.
Christians that oppose freemasonry will often cite its secrecy as a primary reason not to join, even insisting that any organization outside of the Church is unnecessary and evil. The Bible teaches that God is love and we are therefore to help the disadvantaged. The Shriners, a group within freemasonry, raise billions world-wide each year for its Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, specializing in burns, spinal cord injury, cleft lip and palate, and orthopedics. This is one of a number of charitable causes supported by Masons. How many churches raise significant funds for causes other than those which benefit the church or its pastors? What is the percentage of the churches in your city that are united to sponsor large-scale charitable enterprises? How much can the Church criticize this organization for its unified efforts aiding the disadvantaged?
As stated, the purpose is not to criticize but provide insight into the Word of God on issues concentric to freemasonry. Candidly speaking, Masonic Lodges in some communities give more money to social initiatives than churches within the same communities. Sadly, many churches are more concerned with building funds and where they will worship than whether God truly honors their worship. Churches invest millions of dollars in the edifice while investing only hundreds of dollars in the communities surrounding the edifice. Many churches offer no outreach at all, giving only limited help to members. If it is true that through benevolence freemasonry conceals its real agenda, likewise in many churches selfish agendas are hidden behind the stained glass and muffled by the sound of the praise service.
The question before us is should a Christian be a Mason? This article is intended for those with a desire according to 1Pet. 3: 15 to, “Sanctify [or separate from everything else] the Lord God in your hearts and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear [of God].-NKJV” Though this article will only survey information relative to the topic, it will provide useful knowledge to anyone serious about growing in the faith. 2Tim. 2: 15 instructs us to “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a worker that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.-KJV” It is dangerous to take a lax approach to study and growth in understanding the Word. “My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge, because you have rejected knowledge I will also reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God I will also forget your children. Hosea 4:6.-NKJV” As an aside, I suppose the latter part of that verse helps some youth minister better comprehend the trouble within the youth group. While this article may be an interesting read it is faith food for the serious believer.
Having a bad feeling about freemasonry is not enough because feelings can change. Freemasonry is not wrong because your minister preaches against it. Freemasonry need not meet the approval of a stronger brother/sister in Christ. It is validated or invalidated by the Word of God alone. Before freemasonry can be evaluated according to Scripture one must gain insight into the organization itself. The fact is that most know very little about freemasonry or its tenets. Much concerning freemasonry is shrouded in secrecy. Masons actually swear an oath of secrecy, so most of what is learned of it is shared by current or former Masons. While this composition required many hours of research on freemasonry, it would quickly become a book if it included all the information examined. A survey of the information will suffice the purpose of this article.
What Do Masons Say About Freemasonry?
Let us begin with what Masons say about freemasonry. Any number of Masonic websites will share some basic information. This article will quote Masons regarding freemasonry. This way it cannot be said that an anti-mason group influenced the conclusions of this discourse. Most of the following was gathered from www.grandlodge-nc.org. First, Masons do not ask others to join.
“Many good men over the years have had their feelings hurt because close friends whom they knew to be Masons never invited them to join Freemasonry. They did not know, of course, that these close friends were prohibited by Masonic law from issuing such invitations. A man must seek Masonic membership of his own free will and accord.”
Further, going to a meeting will not guarantee membership. Members are chosen through secret ballot. Once selected the individual joins the Blue Lodge, the entry Lodge for all Masons. In the Blue Lodge the Mason learns the craft of freemasonry. Freemasonry is aimed attaining greater self and spiritual knowledge or as they refer to it, the light.
The first degree is that of entered apprentice and during it the candidate is introduced to the basic principles of Freemasonry. As noted in an earlier chapter, symbolic use of various building tools is employed to impress upon him moral truths and doctrines. The degree is serious throughout and, contrary to some wild tales occasionally circulated, there is never any horseplay or frivolity involved (this is true of all three symbolic degrees). Upon completion of the degree, the candidate begins learning a catechism in which he must become proficient before he may receive the next degree.
In the second degree he becomes a fellow craft, learning still more of the principles and teachings of Freemasonry, especially of its close alliance with the arts and sciences. Again, he must commit a catechism to memory before proceeding to the next degree.
The third and final degree is that of master mason, teaching still more of the moral truths of the fraternity, culminating with an impressive lesson concerning the rich rewards awaiting all good men.
Freemasonry is about learning as the words doctrines, teachings, and truths are mentioned. Just as one earns a degree upon achieving a level of knowledge, a Mason is conferred degrees for successfully completing levels of learning. Upon having earned the third degree in the Blue Lodge becoming a Master Mason, an individual can seek to further his Masonic education in other Masonic Orders, mainly the Scottish Rite or the York Rite. The Masonic Lodge is a place where teaching occurs and lots of it!
“The catechisms a Mason is required to learn as he progresses through the degrees are often, at the outset, regarded as considerable chores and candidates sometimes wonder why they are required at all. But, they serve useful purposes for the fraternity and—although he may not realize it at the time—they are particularly useful to the Mason all through his life.”
What Does the Bible Say About the Philosophies and Doctrines Adopted by Masons?
Masons will generally argue that the path to enlightenment is the same as referenced in scripture. John 1: 9 refers to Jesus as, “That True Light which gives light to every man that comes into the world.-NKJV” The issue is whether the light of freemasonry is in fact the True Light or what is described in 2Cor. 11: 14-15, “For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers transform themselves into ministers of righteousness.-NKJV” In fact, John 1: 9 and verses like John 14: 6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the Father except through Me-NKJV” are problematic for Masons because these verses assert that Jesus is the only true way to God, thus nullifying [cancel out] any other path to God. On their website www.grandlodge-nc.org, the Masonic chapter of North Carolina contends
In a Masonic lodge, he will not hear one religion advanced as being superior to any other.
TO CONTINUE READING CLICK HERE OR GO TO http://www.sgomonline.org/faithfood/2010/06/24/christian-masons/
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Just Add Water
Filed under: Biblical Teachings, Godly Principles, What Does the Bible Say About That?
I find that whenever something is too strong for our taste, we just add a little water. If the lemonade is too strong, add a little water. If our spaghetti sauce is too strong, we just add a little water. We dilute anything that we have difficulty appreciating and is too strong for our taste.
The same is true philosophically, if we believe that what we are saying isn’t palatable to our listeners, we compromise our original stand and add just a little water to try to get our point across. We find ourselves hoping that someday we will be able to share the truth to those who oppose our beliefs.
What about our Christian beliefs? Do we just ‘let our light shine’ instead of opening our mouths and proclaiming Jesus as Lord and Savior? The Bible says: “For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” Luke 9:26-27 RSV
We have embarked on a new age and different types of preaching philosophies as well. There are preachers who have become motivational speakers instead of being proficient expositors of God’s Word. Preachers who tell us that God will give us whatever we ask for if we believe, and by believing they actually mean by giving (money). Preachers who skim over those parts of the Bible that aren’t palatable to their listeners, just talking about the things that motivate us to give and to “find favor with men’ instead of the full Gospel. The Bible tells us specifically in Galatians 1:6-9; that if anyone preaches another Gospel, even the angels, “let him be accursed.” Paul teaches his student Timothy a new pastor: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Tim 4:2-4 KJV
Where are the preachers who teach “The wages of sins is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus?” Everything in the Bible is not how God blesses. God had to destroy many people because of paganism, sexual promiscuity and disobedience. The “Flood” is an example of Gods’ wrath for the behavior of mankind. There are passages in the Bible where God had the Israelites destroy entire civilizations; men, women, children and livestock. He would tell them to take nothing and to destroy everything. Remember what happened to Saul the first Israelite King, because of his disobedience? Did we forget Sodom and Gomorrah?
So why are these so-called “Men and Women of God” diluting the Gospel? I cannot tell you why, but I can tell you what will happen to them. John warns us in the Book of Revelations, he says: For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. Rev 22:18-19 KJV
So Man and Woman of God, Christians; be careful what you say, God is listening and I pray that he approves of the Gospel you teach and preach. The Word of God is supposed to offend; this is Gods’ way of teaching us the truth and convicting people of sin. HE is “….a Stone of stumbling, and a Rock of offence…” and HE is coming back soon.
The Real Enemy
Current Mood: Blessed & Happy & Highly Favored
Within life there are many obstacles that we have thrown in our way and trying to figure out how to overcome these obstacles can become quite aggravating at times. I should know, I am a single mother of two and for a long time I thought that everyone that was around me was out to hurt me in some way, form or fashion. After the birth of my son, I soon learned that his father was not going to be of any help and it would be me that would have to quite school to support him. I jumped from job to job trying to make ends meet. I became angry, I was angry at myself and angry at his father. As a single mother I felt that I had a right to be angry. It seemed like everytime I tried to stand firmly on two feet there would be something there to knock me back down, until I fell and felt like that was where I belonged. I heard things like “ You will never amount to anything”, “No one will want you” – to- “You have had a baby, now what are you going to do with yourself?” I started to believe all of it. With self-esteem shot, I found myself once again pregnant and deeper into depression because he was not my husband, and our relationship was not stable so I ran the chance of bringing another baby into this world that may not know his or her father, it was a chance I had to take. There was no chance of me giving my baby up, or having an abortion; as it went against everything I believed in. I am a true believer that nothing happens without reason. Is this really how I was supposed to live my life? Why was I being punished? How am I ever going to make it? These are questions that I would ask myself as I sat and cried in stolen moments I would have to myself.
One Sunday after church, I came home and flipped my television on and there was a sermon taken from the book of 1 John. It was titled “ Elect Lady”. The sermon was given by Bishop Eddie Long, and it was if he was speaking directly to me. Suddenly it all began to make sense to me. Just listening to him, everything clicked for me. I was elected for this position of being a single mother and it was something that I had to embrace. God only chooses a select few because not many are strong enough to hold this position. It was only at this point that I understood that once we embrace whatever it is we go through, be it being a single parent, troubles on the job, a broken relationship, or even an illness, we open doors for many other things in our lives. 1 Corinthians 10:13 states that “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” He will never give you more than you can bear. He knew that I could handle being a single mother. He knew all that it entailed and knew that I was up to the challenge. Not everyone can do what I do, there are some who think they can, but cannot handle the job that God has prepared me for. And as for my negative cheerleaders Psalms 23:5:
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”
My cup continues to runneth over from the blessings of Jesus, for without him I don’t know if I would be clothed in my right mind or able to speak of the goodness of Him. And as long as my faith remains in Him I will remain covered. It took me a long time to figure out that I was angry for no reason at all. If I looked in a mirror my real enemy was starring back at me.
Right Now Comes With A Price
Filed under: Godly Principles, Marriage, Our children, Prophetic Word
Current Mood: Anointed & Blessed & Free & Happy & Highly Favored & 
Humbled & Prayerful & Thankful
Too Busy Thinking about Myself, I didn’t have time to think of nothing else. Don’t ask me about no kids, cause I didn’t know, see I ain’t seen my son in a couple days, last time I seen him he was going to a party with some friends. I didn’t think nothing of it, I just thought while he was gone I would get me some “Me Time” with my Boo. (Mr. Right Now). Now today at 1pm we will be viewing his body. I should have payed more attention to him, made sure he got to school… See we used to go to church. I just don’t know what happened.
Too often we find ourselves asking these questions after the fact. The problem is her son did what he wanted to do, when he wanted to do it, and she did what she wanted to do and when she wanted ” Right Now”. The problem is it came with a price. Proverbs 22:6 says “Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it.” This means that no matter how far this child strays he will always return back to what you taught him. A lot of parents take their hands away before it is time leaving the child to raise themselves. Today children are making their own decisions from going to school to making a decision to attend church. We have left the days of old and replaced with them the new traditional ways of giving children more freedom to do whatever they want.
Bottom line is children should not be making adult decisions. We should be making decisions for them. We are here to protect our children from the ways of the world and we should not loose site of that. We should not remove our hands from them before time. Everything around them moves at a fast pace and it is a ” Right Now” world, a world that they are not ready to conquer just yet.
About the Author
Name: Naima, aka "MsLadyNi"
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Web Site: http://www.naimawilliams.org
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Bio: This fiery yet humble servant of God ministers under an authentic prophetic anointing yet has a teaching ministry style. She also has a deep, genuine passion for the building up and edifying the body of Christ. Since her membership of Shekinah Glory Outreach Ministries International in Chesapeake, VA, under the pastorate of Bishop A. Ray Rouson, she’s faithfully served as a part of the street team ministry, a Sunday school teacher, an Associate Minister, and later the Director of Evangelism. She also spearheaded their Online Outreach Ministry and served as its President and Editor in Chief. During her tenure at SGOMI, she also became certified by Christian International Apostolic Network founded Dr. Bill Hamon, to teach how to properly minister in the prophetic based upon Scripture. Additionally, she also served on the prophetic team at Destiny Spirit Apostolic Network under the pastorate of Apostle Astern. She served in these capacities until the Lord called her to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia in July 2010. To read more about Naima, click "About" then "Who's Naima" located on the top horizontal menu. You can also visit her official website at www.NaimaWilliams.org and her eJournal at www.NaimaWilliams.com/blog! Be sure to connect to her through MySpace and Facebook!
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