Waiting on God the LORD’S Visits February 2023 • Volume XXI Number 06 ”But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. “ (2 Corinthians 3:18)
THOUGHTS FOR CONSIDERATION:
Greetings again my Brethren. Let us continue looking at the Oracles of God and the diversity of ways God divinely communicates with man. Last month we looked at the Holy Spirit as a method and a means to communicate with man. What a wonderful way God uses His Spirit to lead and guide us into ALL truths. to convict us of our waywardness and sin. What a wonderful means that God adds to our lives so that we can come to know Him the more. So, this month we will look at God’s divine providence. Now to be honest God’s providence is a hard concept to handle for some people. I guess it is the old timey word “providence” that gets most folks, but the word “providence” is nothing more than a looking ahead to the future. I like the second meaning, the care and or help of God. And the third meaning is God Himself. If you wrap them all up you find “providence” is the care and help of God for the future. Our early forefathers (especially President George Washington often talked about God’s providence in their lives and the providence of God when starting this wonderful country called America. God’s providence is a part of everyone’s (Saints and sinners alike) lives whether we know it or not. The sun comes up and goes down beyond our abilities, but happens by God’s good graces and providence. The earth rotates on its axis at 23 1/2 degrees not by accident, but by God’s providence and His graces. So much goes on in our lives, beyond our knowledge when it comes to God’s providence. Why look at our bodies. I am amazed at how people believe our bodies were made by accident or natural selection over time through evolution. Oh no my friend we were made in the image of God, not by evolution, but by God and His providence. In II Kings we read, “Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the LORD had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.
2 And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman’s wife.
3 And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy.4 And one went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maid that is of the land of Israel.
5 And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment. 6 And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy. (II Kings 5:1) Do we think it was by accident the maiden happened to work for Naaman’s wife and know of God’s ability to heal through His servants? What are all of the happenstances in these verses you would have to put together to call them coincidental. Or better how many things in our lives have to line up so we can call them coincidental or is it what is, God’s providence in our lives. Here God arranged things to happen so Naaman could be made white as snow as a testimony to him. Now that is the heart of the issue here in these verses. Remember, at the heart of the issue it is always an issue of our heart. Why did Naaman have leprosy? God’s providence. Why did the maiden work for Naaman’s wife? God’s providence. Oh my Lord, can we see another word we could use for “providence?” Why sure, “will.” It is God’s will that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. It is God’s will the earth tilts on her axis at 23 1/2 degrees, if not the degree change would cause the earth to spin out of orbit and into some other solar system and doom life on earth. It was God’s will for Naaman to have leprosy so God could show him he was not the “captain of the host,” “a mighty man of valour,” the biggest and toughest cocks of the walk, oh no, we are as the dust of earth, the flowers of the fields, and at the command of God and His providence will fade and blow away. The greatest lesson of God’s providence is for us to learn the simple truth, God is God and we are not. And the second lesson for us to learn is God upholds the world and our lives in the palm of His hand and at His whim it all could be over for us and the world. Fore we all have been created not to take care of the earth or even each other, but we have been created in the image of God so that we can please God, so we can serve Him in all righteousness and truth and take a little piece of God’s glorious plan for mankind and do our part. We MUST come to see it is God’s providence, His will for our lives is the only thing that keeps us above ground and not taking a dirt nap. Naaman had to learn he was not the leader of the “mighty men of valour” and now it is our time to learn this lesson. The sooner we learn the lesson the sooner we shall be able to comprehend, “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” ( 2 Peter 1:4)
Next month we will continue looking at the “Oracles of God” as we continue to look at the Diversity of Divine Communication by looking at a few examples of communication. Do you hear Him draw near? He is speaking to us, but do we have the hearing ears to hear what the LORD is saying to us? Written by David Stahl
Our Greatest Need
As we step back and look at our “needs” we often go to God and beseech Him to meet our needs, but in fact nowhere in the Bible does God say He will meet our “needs.” Now please do not get me wrong God does care (to a degree, but not as much as we think He does) about our physical concerns, that is because He knows we have greater “needs” in our lives than what to wear, eat, drive, or a place to live. Matthew puts things in proper perspective when he said, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) all of “these things” are the things we wear, things to eat, what to drive, and the place to live. I always find it funny when I go to Africa, India, Nepal, etc. and visit the home of Christians from these areas who do not have nice clothes to wear, food to eat, something to drive, or a place to live some would say God has not met their needs. Well I would beg to differ with them. I would say God has met their needs, but not in the way most Christians today believe or have been taught. I find it strange how some Christians use the Gospel as a crutch to soften the troubles of life while others use the Gospel as a way to survive. Each of us has varying amounts of information about God and many are satisfied to use this information to get what they want from God by manipulating Him while others are content with just being grateful for the things that God gives them. One of the most misquoted Scriptures in the Bible is, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) we like “his riches in glory” part and connect our needs to them, well it does not say “needs” it says “need.” “Needs” are things, “need” is the attitude about caring for things. Another misquoted Scripture is, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) Most Christians say, “casting all your cares,” but it does not say cares, it says care. Cares are things, care is the attitude of caring for things. So we are to cast our attitude for caring about things (what to wear, eat, drive, or a place to live) on the LORD, because “he careth for you.” Our “needs” consume most of our day, but I wonder how this world and our walk with the LORD would look if we spend more of our time concerned about the “needs” of others? Now to be fair there are some Christians who are being stirred to seek a higher level of spirituality in which they experience not only His presence or power, but have an active personal relationship with Him. Now that is a need worth casting our care on. The LORD desires to make Himself personally known to us. It is essential that we respond to this inner stirring of the Spirit especially at this present time as we are approaching the Kingdom Age. I really believe what many Christians call the church age (I do not really know for sure) is winding down and the LORD will (maybe soon) return for those have allowed Him to move them past satisfying their “needs” into a personal relationship with Him. Jesus said that we cannot enter the Kingdom, except we first become as little children. Luke tells us, “Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” (Luke 18:17) Jesus could be talking about the kingdom age I do not know, but probably is talking about what the kingdom of God is, “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17) You know little kids do not worry if their parents have paid the electric bill, have food to eat, drive a nice car, oh no all they really worry about is does their parents really love them. Now here is where it gets deep. It is important for us to understand that the LORD may move in ways that differ from our past expectations or experiences. This means that our approach to this present stirring within our spirit must be with a child-like trust and faith. Paul tells us, “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God has chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.” (1 Corinthians 1:27) And later in 1 Corinthians, “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” (1 Corinthians 2:12) The LORD’s response to our seeking may be in a way that is not familiar to us or that may appear offensive to our intellect. The Children of Israel had this test at Sinai, but failed and only Moses could have communion and receive an impartation from God. The LORD may do this to see if we are really sincere and if we are willing to accept Him on His terms. Herein is the test of our child-like faith and trust, “I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me… that I may cause those that love Me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.” (Proverbs 8:17, 21) The LORD will respond to the expression of our heart’s desire to know Him. As we vocally express to Him our love for Him He will become interested the more in us. The LORD is saying that He will respond in a special way to those who seek Him “early” (those that seek Me early shall find Me). This “early” means that we quickly set aside whatever we were doing and respond to His quickening presence in unquestioning, unqualified anticipation of all that will follow, without any attempt on our part to understand why, what or to have our needs satisfied. One of the biggest draw backs in our relationship with the LORD and our brothers and sisters is us putting our selfish needs first in our lives. When we put the LORD first and in all things acknowledge our utter dependence upon Him then He will make Himself known to us, and also, He will work on our behalf. As a result, we will receive spiritual substance which means that our lives will become a witness of His life. This is the testimony of Jesus which is the expression of His life flowing out through the expression of our relationship to Him. Our words and deeds reflect our relationship with the LORD. Our primary calling is not to ministry, miracles, the “things” in what the church today prays for, but come to know the LORD and spending quality time in fellowship with Him. As we are faithful in our part He will be faithful in His part. The important thing is that we have spent time with the LORD so we might receive the something that is to be given in the outworking expression to our brothers and sisters. Our time of preparation is very important as we can only give that which we have received. Thus as we spend time in His presence, the LORD will impart into our lives the potential for all that pertains to our calling. It is one thing to be called, but another to be sent. After all many are called, but few are chosen. Those chosen are not chosen because they have been called (many are called) oh no those chosen were chosen because they choose the LORD first. Our correct choices establishes our future especially in God. In Matthew Chapter 13, a sower went forth to sow. Some of this seed fell by the wayside and was eaten by the birds. It is very important that the seed (the Word of God, not money and things) falls into carefully prepared soil for our being in the center of His will and purpose for us. The distance from the hardened soil of the wayside to this prepared soil is but one step. This step that we take into the place of preparation is very important, but while this inner work of the Holy Spirit is taking place there may be no evidence of a harvest. This should not concern us as during this time of change the important thing is the changes that are taking place within us rather than what we are accomplishing. When I was a young Christian (and maybe even now at times) there have been times when I have struggled to meet the LORD trying all kinds of ways, but getting nowhere. Then I became quiet and found that all the LORD required of us was for us to take one step to the side out of the way. When I did this He was there. He had been there waiting for me to wear myself out, so I would yield and come His way. I was trying to force the LORD to move as I thought He should. All I had to do was yield and come His way, in child-like faith. The demands of our soulish desires are very real and ever present. To seek Him “early” not only as a child, but also requires of us a time of heart preparation. This involves a crucifixion of these self-centered desires with a determination to seek the LORD and spend time alone with Him. As we do this the LORD will draw us to Himself and impart into us an adequate supply of that which we need to meet our “need” (which is more of Him) that He might send us forth to preach the word, heal the sick, and cast out devils. What is our greatest need? To come to the LORD with a child-like faith. Written by David Stahl
THOUGHTS FROM KAREN:
God is No Joke
Wow, where to begin! First of all let me say that if a “church” feels the need to dim the lights while the choir is singing, you must ask yourself why? Is it so people can trip in the dark as they get to their seats? Or is it maybe so the strobe lights and light show appears better in the dark? Gee, I wonder if Jesus and the disciples put on a light show for the folks at the Sermon on the Mount? Folks, darkness is symbolic of a lot of things. Most often darkness is symbolic of evil works and Satan. You know Paul had a lot to says about darkness. In Romans Paul shares, “The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” (Romans 13:12) And in 1 Corinthians Paul writes, “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” (1 Corinthians 4:5) Just because the world likes the darkness does not mean the church has to willfully plunge itself into the night, unless of course, the church too likes darkness.Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” not the darkness of the world. Paul again helps us here, “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:6) Okay light or darkness? Which one glorifies God? Shame on you seeker-sensitive churches for turning the lights out to affect emotions. And, when a “church” dims the lights to make the room darker it begs the question why? Personally it makes me uncomfortable, like someone is going to grab my purse and run, or something stupid like that. While I’m on a roll here, let me also say that jokes have NO place in the pulpit. The pastor telling a few jokes to loosen the audience (oops sorry, the congregation) up is horribly cringe-worthy. So, when did the Gospel become funny? Jesus and millions of people have given their life for the Gospel message. And, we’re all assembled together in some “church” to yuck it up over corny jokes about how disappointing South of the Border is?? Or how a new gas station is SO huge that you practically need a shuttle to go from the pump to the store. Really? Listen we all like a good joke now and then, BUT NOT IN CHURCH! The Gospel is serious stuff. GOD is serious. Salvation is serious. Accepting or rejecting Christ is serious. While the Pastor is telling jokes from the pulpit some poor slob in the world is lost and dying and on his way to hell, isn’t that just hysterical! Just imagine, if it was your unsaved loved one dying my wouldn’t you just be in stitches, wow what a riot! (Sorry my sarcasm is running away with me) Let’s not turn the “church” into a comedy or night club. There’s a time and a place for everything. No jokes at church, please. That just cheapens the office of a pastor—which these days is getting enough of a black eye as it is. Keep the lights on, can the jokes. GOD and the Gospel is no joke. Written by Karen Stahl
NEEDS NO WANTS:
- In Dobrich, Bulgaria Pastor Niki Marsov and in SilistraPastor(s) Yanko, and Marcho. Times are troubled in Bulgaria much prayer and support is needed.
- Constanta, Romania Pastors Luke and Jacob at Bethel Church and in Agigea Pastor Jacob as the interim Director for the Romanian Center for Cross-cultural Studies Bible School.
- Pastor S. J. Peter, Founder of DAWN Ministries in Hyderabad, and Pastor Wilson and his son Pastor Julian at Gospel Assembly in Sankaraguptham, India.
- Dan, Cathy, and members of Uskudar Son Buyruk Kilisesi in Istanbul, Turkey.
- Pastor Elieti Msangi in Dar Es Salaam and Pastors Isreal Mutaitina and John Balone in Bukoba, Tanzania.
- Pastor Tek Dahl at Gethsemane, Church (his church) and their radio station “Good News 105.1 FM” in Kathmandu, Nepal.
- Bishop John, Samuel Kamanzi (from the Congo), and, Emmanuel Ndolimana in Ruhengeri,Rwanda.
- Christian and Ina Kopjar Missionaries to the County of Liberia.
- Brother John Vlad, (serving as the Operations Officer), his wife Cristina, and three daughters aboard the international ministry ship Logos Hope.
NEXT HOME GROUP MEETING:
21 February 23 at 7:00 pm
At 232 Everett Drive Sneads Ferry, NC 28460
7:00 pm please RSVP Home: (910) 741-0489
FUTURE SCHEDULE
February: Kathmandu, Nepal
March: Local Ministry
April: Local Ministry
Email: charliegolfone@outlook.com
ROCK FELLOWSHIP ON THE RADIO: On WJCV Jacksonville, NC 1290 AM or 98.3 FM
Every Sunday morning at 9:00 am
I am still available to share what God has given me at churches and/or home groups. If God moves on your heart to support BHG or other ministries we personally know we would be honored to serve as a go-between. Remember, if we want a blessing from God the spiritual principle is we must bless others. Remember, God is to you what you are to God.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: David and Karen Stahl 232 Everett Drive Sneads Ferry, NC 28460
Phone: Home: (910) 741-0489 Mobile: (910) 382-9287 FAX: (910) 741-0489
Email: dstahl@beholdinghisglory.com
Website:www.www.beholdinghisglory.com/
Blog: http://bhisglory.blogspot.com/ NEW OFFER Booklets on Spiritual Authority, Spiritual Leadership, Prayer, Body of Christ, and Righteous Living the Four Anchors of God are now available by contacting us and requesting one. You can see them on our home page. Get one now. The Author House link below will lead you to our latest book, “Thoughts for Consideration.” Just copy it into your web browser and return. Also you can purchase two of our other books “Adventures with God.” and “God Still Performs Miracles: A Book of Personal Encouragement.” http://www.authorhouse.com/AuthorCenter/Protected/BookHome.aspx?bookID=61464 Please take a minute and take a look, they all make for a great encouraging gift, giving hope and sharing God’s love through a deeper teaching that someone can enjoy again and again. All of our books can be purchased at all book stores like Barnes and Nobles, Borders, Book-A-Million, and etc., any Christian Book Store that orders, and all book ordering on-line companies like Amazon.com. Or if you are like me from the old school just contact us, we will let you know the price and then we will mail it out to your home address. Postage and handling is on a case by case basis. If you know someone you think would enjoy receiving this newsletter or if you receive this newsletter and do not wish to please let me know. Contributions to this ministry is always appreciated and needed the more time continues. Please feel free to contact us with the above information.
