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A lot of people can tell something unusual is taking place with all the disturbing events simultaneously occurring around the world. Christians who interpret these unprecedented occurrences from a spiritual lens usually conclude this story is coming to a climax. This saga is unfolding in real-time; and since history repeats itself, take note what is to come.

The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

The Bible is a living document.

The other day it dawned on me the narrative that was started back in the book of Genesis and carried throughout the entire Bible is continuing to unfold. I began to connect the dots; realizing how each person’s life is intricately intertwined into this long dramatic narrative; leaving no one out.

A few months ago, I wrote a post titled: Same Plot: In that piece, I suggested the importance of not overlooking the rich history embedded in the Old Testament; it helps us to understand what’s going on in the world today.

By reading or rereading books in the Old Testament that will familiarize us with prophets of long ago like Joel, Amos, and Obadiah, it becomes obvious that our lives are structured around a two-step plot.

1. God’s love and mercy always gave countless opportunities for people and nations to repent.
2. Lack of repentance was followed by consequences.

The daily news has me intrigued because I analyze it from a biblical standpoint. It’s amazing that the only things that changed from days long gone, are our modern-day mechanisms and protocols; otherwise man hasn’t changed one bit.

• People worshipped false gods then; people worship false gods now.
• People were self-absorbed then; people are self-absorbed now.
• People willfully imparted injustice to others then; people willfully impart injustice to others now.

I think you understand the point I’m making.

Don’t miss your cue.

Now that the narrative has reached us on the timeline, we don’t want to miss our cue. I think it would help if we could understand that our names are written in the script; action is required; we all have assignments.

If we’re not sure what we should be doing specifically for such a time as this, we should ask the Holy Spirit to lead us in the desired direction; and by faith—when it’s revealed—not to procrastinate. In the meantime, do what you know will please God.

Until the book of Revelation is fulfilled, this saga will continue spiraling on—if you do your part or not.

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

 

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Not that anyone would want to, but here’s how to give the devil a belly-gushing laugh: bring some toy weapons to a spiritual fight.

Take a moment to let that sink in!

So, what are toy weapons as related to fighting spiritually? Faithless religious practices that lead to prayers that are not connected to the anointing power of the Holy Spirit. Usually people who are not fully committed to God straddle the fence sporting part-time Christianity; they don’t want to align their lives completely with Christ, but yet, they want the “Promised Land” promises to manifest in their lives—ignoring the conditions that are attached for such results.

They only want to listen to church sermons that offer pleasantries that soothes the ear; afterwards, they’re are left spiritually malnourished. Paul warned Timothy that the day would come when people would reject sound doctrine.

For the time is coming when [people] will not tolerate (endure) sound and wholesome instruction, but having ears itching [for something pleasing and gratifying], they will gather to themselves one teacher after another to a considerable number, chosen to satisfy their own liking and to foster the errors they hold, ⁴ And will turn aside from hearing the truth and wander off into myths and man-made fictions (2 Timothy 4:3-4, AMP).            

When trouble strikes, those souls know enough Bible to quote: “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” But as far as the devil is concerned, that’s a toy weapon, because it’s spoken from a hollow vacuum. Please note: When this certified killer invades your life, he can recognize toys; and he’s not coming to play with them; he’s coming to kill, steal, and destroy. (See John 10:10.)

But still in all, there are people who settle for the works of religion over the power that can cause this killer to back off. They will tell you that it doesn’t take all that commitment to be in right standing with God. Guess who told them that lie?

It would be ridiculous for a United States soldier to go into combat without proper training and ammunition; likewise, we must be properly armed for spiritual warfare.

In these troubled times, why would anybody not be armed with the Word? God has given His angels charge over us to accompany and defend us in all our ways of obedience and service (see Psalm 91:11, AMP). We are in a spiritual war; however, those who have aligned their lives with the Lord are equipped for this battle. We Do Not Bring Toys to the Fight!

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) (2 Corinthians 10:4)

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12).

Don’t entertain the devil waving toys in his face; approach him with

WEAPONS empowered by Almighty God!

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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There are times when you need to flush your head of all the outside voices and listen for the inner still voice of God. If you listen up, it’s in those quiet moments when you can hear valuable nuggets from the Holy Spirit; tidbits of wisdom that addresses your life personally.

Right now, the world is unstable; and if you’re conducting your life solely on its “upside-down” philosophies, viewpoints, and attitudes, you’ll end up just as erratic. But as a believer in Christ, you are privileged to get your directions from the Most-High God. He knows which way you should turn; and He knows who you should trust when making important decisions.

Factor in:

God gave you a measure of faith—wisdom too, if you ask for it. One does not cancel out the other.

Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say, (Isaiah 28:23, NIV).

It’s every believer’s responsibility to purposefully listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying to them. It’s not a good idea to lean on others to do all your spiritual listening. There will be times when the Lord whispers a distinct word directly to your spirit. Could He be checking to see if you’re listening?

Isn’t it obvious since so many church buildings are closed due to this virus that we need our own one-on-one communication system with God? With all good intentions, sometimes people will tell you to go left because the Lord told them to go left; on the other hand, the Lord might tell you to go right. Consequently, if you don’t listen for yourself, you might follow another person’s specific instructions that the Lord gave for them to do. When you do that, you’re out of God’s will for your own life.

When the Spirit of the Lord speaks, we need to listen up.

And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left (Isaiah 30:21).

The more we listen—the more we hear Him speaking.

The more we involve the Holy Spirit in our daily routines, the more intimate our relationship with Him becomes; because then, we’ll find ourselves listening and depending on that still voice for directions. Acquiring that level of faith to know when the Lord is speaking is an on-going process that develops as we obey His Word and devote daily fellowship time with Him. Who wouldn’t want to listen to what the Spirit of the Lord has to say?

Listen up!

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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How much more has to happen before we realize God is sounding the alarm? I know there are people who have already hit the snooze button on COVID-19; they still don’t believe it’s a real threat even though it has brought this entire world down to its knees; killed many and counting.

Don’t be oblivious to the signs of time.

Nevertheless, this virus isn’t the only alarm God is sounding; we have racial tension, climate change, and economic hardships looming. If these issues don’t sound the alarm, just wait—there’s more to come. God loves us enough to reveal the good and ugly aspects of our true nature as to how we conduct ourselves during these perilous times. What a perfect backdrop to show us who we really are.

There’s no time for compromise when it comes to living our lives according to the Word of God. Yet, we have the option to hit snooze; turn over and get a few more winks. Although keep in mind: hitting snooze won’t stop time; the clock is still ticking; and it’s later than we think.

Who hath ears to hear, let him hear (Matthew 13:9).

Some people can’t hear the resounding warnings because they’re being controlled by the spirit of deception. They’re like the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 who weren’t ready when the bridegroom came. God is merciful enough to signal us that challenging times are ahead; and to get our lives in right order with Him.

I’m sure you’ve heard people say they’ll be glad when things get back to normal. Personally, I don’t think life as we knew it will ever go back to the way it was; and for some, that’s good news. We are going to have to open our minds to receive a new normal.

Our commitment to God is being tested.

God has told His people what to do (see 2 Chronicles 7:14). If it wasn’t for the Church (the Body of Christ) praying and doing what God commands, we would have been consumed long ago. In the days of Sodom and Gomorrah, God told Abraham He would spare the city if He could find fifty righteous people. Abraham negotiated the number down to ten. As a result, the city was not spared; what does that tell us? (See Genesis 18:26-32.) If we only have a superficial relationship with the Spirit, it’s time to get serious and become fully committed.

It’s later than yesterday!

We must use this time to draw closer to God; hide His Word in our hearts (see Psalm 119:11). The Holy Spirit will bring the Word back to our remembrance (see John 14:26) as needed. The Word is the sword that will cut through the devil’s attacks as we hold up the shield of faith. We are here on earth at this time, which lets us know we can do what needs to be done with God on our side.

I apologize if this writing has a gloom and doom undertone; I’m not trying to over dramatize the moment that we find ourselves in; however, burying our heads in the sand and pretending that none of this is occurring will only leave us powerless in Satan’s hands.

I truly believe what we have been through thus far is only the tip of what’s to come. But don’t fear; fright is immobilizing. In the place of fear, we should ask the Holy Spirit to search our hearts and let us know what is displeasing to Him. Whatever He tells us to clean up, we must act on it.

Don’t hit snooze—the hour is late.

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. ² People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, ³ without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, ⁴ treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— ⁵ having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people (2 Timothy 3:1-5, NIV).

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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Thank God for assorted flavors! This would be a boring world if we were all cut from the same cookie cutter. Only a narrow-minded narcissistic personality would think otherwise. Hopefully, one who thinks like that will come to realize that type of egoistical thinking would trap them in their own ignorance. It’s through our diversity that we receive knowledge and strength; therefore, we must embrace all the rich culture and experiences that we each bring to the table of life.

No one owns the rights to this WORLD.

During all the uproar the world is facing today, do you think God is sending us a strong message that we are to respectfully come together and work these problems out while His mercy is being offered? Is that why our problems will take universal solutions?

We can’t expect to live in the promises of God when we disregard, mistreat, and ignore one another. Those are barriers built in the chambers of hell to clog our channels of communication with the Holy Spirit. Many times, we haven’t received answers to our prayers because we aren’t willing to meet the criteria attached to God’s promises. No matter how much faith we try to generate, we can’t discount the love factor. (See Galatians 5:6.)

When will we learn to care and respect each other?

• When will we kinda, sorta get it that we can’t be in right standing with God while promulgating hate toward another human being? Jesus told us to love one another; guess who’s telling us to hate one another? I’ll just leave that right there.

 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:34-35).

• When will we kinda, sorta get it that we need the cooperation and help from one another in order to combat COVID-19? However, instead of working cooperatively, many have allowed themselves to be overcome by hatred, selfishness, pride, and defiance—principalities and rulers of darkness.

Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interest, but also each for the interests of others (Philippians 2:4, AMP).

• When will we kinda, sorta get it that we are to look out for those who are in need? Throughout biblical history, it is recorded how God retaliated mightily when injustice was done to the least of His people. God is the same today as He was then; He hasn’t changed. (See Malachi 3:6; Isaiah 40:8; Hebrews 13:8.)

If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? (1 John 3:17, NIV)

• When will we kinda, sorta get it that God alone is LORD? Nevertheless, man with all his vain glory is trying to push God out of everything and promote himself as the god over this world. King Nebuchadnezzar was the greatest Babylonian king before pride brought him down; as a result, he ended up groping around in the fields like an animal. (See Daniel 4.) God’s wrath isn’t to be taken lightly.

Thou shalt have no other gods before me (Exodus 20:3). I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images (Isaiah 42:8).

All that’s happening now should make us wonder:

When will we kinda, sorta get it through our thick heads . . .?

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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If you are running a scam of any kind, it’s time to close down shop and walk upright. Though that statement has a humorous undertone, the message is spot on. I’m sure you’ve noticed no one is getting away with anything these days. It’s as if God has unmasked the world—exposing all its dirty little secrets.

Whatever you have spoken in the darkness shall be heard and listened to in the light, and what you have whispered in [people’s] ears behind closed doors will be proclaimed upon the housetops (Luke 12:3, AMP).

We must keep in mind that the world is comprised of people; therefore, if the world is being unmasked, that reveal includes our personal lives as well. We can’t point fingers and scorn others for their downfalls when we might have a few skeletons rattling in our own closets. (See Luke 6:42.)

COVID-19 has put our lives on lockdown; forced many of us to quarantine. But on the positive side, it has given us time to do some self-reflection. It’s giving us time to develop an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Ever since this contagious invasion, other matters of concern have been unmasked; brought into the light—and placed on center stage like: racial tension, inequality, and economic hardships to name a few. If one particular thing doesn’t grab our attention, another one will. We are all being tested in one way or another—for whatever reason—for such a time as now.

Why is all of this coming to a head at once?

We can all feel the tension; we don’t have to be all that in tuned to know something unusual is taking place; too much happening all at once. However, in spite of all the distractions, this is a time to be alert and not just look at things at face value, but interpret these events from a spiritual standpoint, because all this uprising has a biblical backing. This is a time to ask the Holy Spirit to show us the correlation between what happened in the past, to what’s going on now as we search the Scriptures and read about the feats long ago. What lessons can we learn that can be applied to our circumstances in the present moment?

All that’s going on today is not by happenstance; it’s not one big colossal prank. God is sounding the alarm for us to come before Him with a contrite heart; and by faith, humbly ask for His forgiveness.

I think everything is at a pivotal point right now; it’s time to voluntarily take off our masks, or else be unmasked on the world’s stage.

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

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You might be thinking: I didn’t break this world; it was already broken when I got here. Well, I can’t argue with that; but you’re here now; and the Word says in Romans 3:23 that we have all fallen short of the glory of God. We can’t pretend like none of this is our fault. That’s like a disobedient child destroying a toy—then throws a five-alarm tantrum when the toy is broken. We shouldn’t waste our faith believing God will make all the wrongs of this world go away if we’re not willing to make the necessary sacrifices to bring about restoration.

Hate unmasked!

If we examine the root cause of this brokenness, we’ll find the hand of Satan disseminating discord—using man’s adversarial nature to pump out hate. Though that’s nothing new; the enemy has always used people, including church folk, to spread his venom. Yet, things seem different now; hate has taken off its mask; and has boisterously accelerated its course to an alarming degree that can’t be ignored.

God has already done His part.

All this destruction started back when Adam sinned; however, God so loved the world sent His Son to restore us back to Him. Jesus came and modeled God’s redemption plan; paid our sin debt with His blood; left us written instructions; and now we have the Holy Spirit to—teach, guide, protect, and comfort us.

It’s the Church’s turn.

God has given His Church (the Body of Christ) everything she needs to overcome this spirit of hate that is trying to take over this world. Her most trying challenge is to: not succumb to the enemy’s deceitful tactics that he specifically designed to control her emotions. Hate, for instance, is one of those emotions that has many disguises; the most ardent Christians can be harboring ill feelings and not know it. Just like a driver suspected of being intoxicated breathes into a breathalyzer, a person who suspects hate is steering their emotions should ask the “hate analyzer” question:

Would I want myself or my loved ones treated in such a deplorable manner?

Do to others as you would have them do to you (Luke 6:31, NIV).

That question rips the veil off hate—exposing it for what it is. If we align our actions to the way we would want to be treated, we’ll open our hearts for the power of the Holy Spirit to intervene. When we operate out of kindheartedness without any undermining ulterior motives, we touch the heart of God. The Spirit will empower and lead us in the way we should go.

When the Church walks in the Love of God, the world gets to see God is Love; and since God is Love—love is the glue that will mend the broken pieces.

You’re not responsible for all repairs—just the parts you broke.

• If we say that we have fellowship with him, [God] and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: ⁷ But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:6-7).
• Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness.¹⁰ Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. ¹¹ But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them (1 John 2:9-11, NIV).
• Do everything in love (1 Corinthians 16:14, NIV).

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith. 

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A few months ago, when all this global devastation started, I asked the Lord what did He want me to do? This is what He slipped into my spirit: Pray for the Church!

God was not referring to any local assembly; He was talking about the Body of Christ. Weeks after praying, my spirit became troubled as if my prayers were hitting a stoned wall; something wasn’t right. That’s when the Holy Spirit let me know: Even though the Church loves Him and wants to do right by Him, too many members were operating from opposing sides; she was fragmented; “truth” was swaying like a palm tree blowing in the wind to justify personal prejudices and stereotypes. That’s not to say members of the Church can’t have different opinions; however, those opinions must be grounded in the Word of God.

A house divided will fall.

Satan knows the Church can damage his kingdom if she harmonized; therefore, his mission is to cause division. His main tool is to pitch people against people, race against race, culture against culture, religion against religion, families against families, and the list goes on . . .

The enemy is cunning; he knows how to slice into our beliefs without us realizing we’ve been indoctrinated with his fabrications. That’s why it’s imperative that we routinely ask God to search our hearts; show us all sides of a situation—not just what we want to see and hear, but the Truth of the matter; no matter where that Truth leads or what it will expose. Now after the Truth has been revealed, anyone still holding to their incorrect preconceived notions, chooses to be part of the problem.

The truth will set us free.

If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; ³² And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:31-32).

I think the Church is accepting more Truth about her ways since the pandemic; and the bright spotlight that is shining on racial injustice. We are now listening and talking to those outside of our closely knitted clusters—just the way Jesus modeled. We still have quite a bit of work to do.

If we can’t learn to love each other, then we missed a huge part of our earthly mission. By faith, we must love one another. PERIOD!

Master, which is the great commandment in the law? ³⁷ Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. ³⁸ This is the first and great commandment. ³⁹ And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself

(Matthew 22:36-39).

 Truth will bring the Church together the way God intended.

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

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I’m sure you have seen, or perhaps even been a victim of, someone hysterical—being shaken back to reality. That illustration came to my mind when I was thinking about all the turmoil this world has faced, and is facing within a short period of time. It’s as if this wayward, rebellious, sinful planet is being warned to come out of its immoral state of complacency. I know this shaking has spiritual implications because of its global magnitude. We must keep in mind; this whole world has been called on the carpet; the moans and groans cross all language barriers and cultural differences; these vibrations are felt around the world.

You’re dead if you don’t feel this shaking.

However, not everyone will comprehend these dire circumstances as warnings; but those who do, are not taking this shake up for granted—but seeing it as a wake-up call; a time to examine their ways in the light of God’s Word.

In Amos 3:7, it says the Lord will do nothing without revealing it first to His prophets. Perhaps we should look at these events and interpret them as a forewarning?

What is God saying to us personally, and collectively?

We can’t ignore these current uprisings when they affect our health, our families, our security, our means of survival, and in many cases, rattling our distorted archaic ways of thinking and doing things. This erratic shaking is loosening everything that isn’t built on the Solid Rock of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we must pay attention and not be tricked into thinking all this turmoil is because of someone else’s error. Be not deceived, everybody’s fingerprint is showing up.

Consider:

• Have we replaced God with the “gods” and idols of this world? (See Exodus 20:3.)
• Have we gotten so fixated and self-absorbed that we are blinded by the cruelty of our actions toward one another? (See Mark 12:31.)
• Have we labeled ourselves as righteous before God, as we hold fast to deep seeded resentments? (See Matthew 7:21.)

We should take questions like these before God, and ask Him: Show me—to me. Then by faith, when He does reveal our hearts, we must not rationalize or make excuses for our ungodly ways; whatever God is shaking off—let it stay off.

There’s a reason for this shaking. . .

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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Millions of people out of work; cries for justice ignored; people protesting, rioting, cities on fire; everything in turmoil—falling apart; and then on top of all the pain and suffering, COVID-19 is still with us—killing masses around the world. As I’m watching the evening news, I feel as though the world is imploding. Is there a word from the Lord?

As a matter of fact, there is; He’s speaking; but, are we listening and obeying?

If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; ¹⁴ If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turned from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:13-14).

A few months ago, when the churches first closed due to this virus, I posted a writing called: Evicted. In that piece, I stated we should use this time being quarantined to get closer to the Lord. In James 4:8 it says, draw near to God, and He’ll draw near to you.

Later I wrote: Christians Got Mail. I said if Christians are bored-stiff during this pandemic, apparently, they haven’t opened their mail and read their “To Do” list from heaven.

The time is NOW!

Those writings came from an urgent feeling I felt in the pit of my gut. I knew we, as believers, needed to make sure we were prepared spiritually for what was coming down the line. Having an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit was going to be imperative for the days looming ahead. I didn’t write those posts to frighten anyone; I didn’t know at the time what was on the horizon, but in my spirit—I could tell God was calling His Church for active duty.

Well, that time is now for the Body of Christ to stand and take her proper position. It’s time for the Church to lead the world; not so much with unconvincing words of religiosity, but with action. The world needs to see us addressing matters that impact their lives—like all the injustice taking place. When we put our partialities aside and let the Spirit reign, people will take notice.

The world will see God’s love, when we treat those in despair the way we would want to be treated if we walked in those same shoes. With a blink of the eye, life can flip things around; it’s called reap what you sow. Experience is a strict no-nonsense teacher.

We all go through times when we are abounding and times when we are abasing; God designed the world for us to help each other. Have you noticed, our tests in life are attached to mankind in some way or another? We have got to get this love your neighbor commandment right.

The world is imploding right before our eyes; not the time for the Church to be a silent spectator. She has everything she needs through Christ to illuminate His love during these unsettling times.

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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As much as Satan would love to, he knows he doesn’t have the authority to close the Church—the Body of Christ. Christ being the Head, and every born-again believer a part of the Body—the Church is not under the enemy’s jurisdiction. Therefore, he’ll settle for the next best thing; deceiving man into believing the Church is only a building made of brick and mortar. But for those who know better, have not restrained their Christianity to a building that can be manipulated by man.

The Body of Christ is too powerful to be contained!

For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12)

COVID-19 is like a disturbed hornet’s nest; raging fearlessly throughout the world leaving behind unprecedented catastrophic footprints. The world is searching vigorously for vaccines and any other means to stop, or slow down this deadly threat on the world.

Every facet of our lives has been affected by this uncontrolled virus. Schools have closed, businesses have folded, entertainment has been interrupted; but the Church—is still doing what she’s called to do:

• Still covering her families and loved ones in prayer,
• Still clothed in the armor that’ll stand against the wiles of the devil,
• Still laying hands on the sick,
• Still fasting and praying,
• Still worshiping and giving thanks,
• Still singing and praising the Lord,
• Still reading the Word; and receiving divine revelation,
• Still communicating with other believers,
• Still enjoying the peace and comfort of the Holy Spirit,
• Still walking by faith,
• Still witnessing to unbelievers; and caring for the needy are just a few things the Church is still doing while the local church doors are shut.

The positive side of all this: Our relationship with the Holy Spirit is being given the opportunity to draw closer to Him—while the world gets to see the love of Christ in action through His Church.

Remember, the Body of Christ Never Closed!

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

 

 

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Earth and all its inhabitants are under the watch of: God the Father—the Son—and the Holy Spirit. Nothing can attack this world, or hit us personally without Heaven knowing about it. What can slip by El Roi—the God Who sees [all] me? He has us engraved on the palms of His hands. (See Isaiah 49:16.) Everything about us is under Heaven’s watch.

If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. ⁹ If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;¹⁰ Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me (Psalm 139:8-10).

When hell fans its flames, look to the hills. . .

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.² My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.³ He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber (Psalm 121:1-3).

Heaven sees every diabolical move hell makes against us; yet we’re told—to fear not. (See Isaiah 41:10.) All we’re required to do is have faith and obey God’s instructions; then—look to the hills for whence cometh our help.

We should be consoled with the fact the Spirit of the living God will personally escort us through every battle and storm that we face; in our loneliest times, we’re never alone. He said He would never leave nor forsake us. (See Psalm 94:14.) Every minute detail concerning our lives is duly monitored under Heaven’s watchful eye.

All injustice is being noted; all lies are being logged; all cruelty is being recorded; all such matters—registered under Heaven’s watch!

God saw all the crooked deals formed against us before they were even thought of; He heard every plan to take us down before even one syllable was uttered; He knew all the answers before there was a need for questions. And yes, God saw Covid-19 zooming in on earth—when there wasn’t a world to zoom in on.

Beyond man’s intelligence!

One might say, since Heaven sees all the corruption, pain, and sorrow going on, why doesn’t God do something about it?

Well, who is to say He’s not doing something? Who has enough brain cells to understand, debate, or question any of God’s ways? He said His ways and thoughts are higher than ours (see Isaiah 5:8-9). When Job started questioning God’s actions and motives, the Almighty replied with a series of questions that has befuddled the most intellectual minds. (See Job 38-39.) I hope you find time to read those chapters; after which, meditate on this:

Who is foolish enough to think anyone can get away with anything—when every move made is,

Under Heaven’s Watch?

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

 

 

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I’m so glad the Church is not a building; instead, it’s comprised of each individual believer who accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. What a terrifying thought to think that the only way we can get prayers answered, receive blessings, or get instructions from the Holy Spirit is by entering into a church building. Nevertheless, Satan has deceived a lot of people into believing just that. His delusive lullabies have put many believers into a comatose state—they’re just waiting for the church buildings to reopen after this coronavirus; overlooking the fact they are the Church.

Arise sleeping giant!

Of course, I’m not saying all believers that make up the Church are sleep; however, too many Christians have taken on a laid-back stance; and Satan is taking full advantage of it. A lot of us are waiting for God to change this broken world, but His job was done at the crucifixion; it’s on His people now. Am I saying we as Christians are the reason why the world is in the state that it’s in? Yes, I am!

Second Chronicles 7:13-14 is resounding throughout the world today; I’ve quoted it myself several times in the past few weeks.

If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; ¹⁴ If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turned from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:13-14).

Notice, in verse 14, God is talking to His people—not sinners. Sinners cannot turn things around—so, who’s left? Are we doing what God mandated in order for the land to be healed? Or are we just shaking our heads in dismay at all the evil that’s happening?

We must ask the Holy Spirit to put the spotlight on our hearts like David did in Psalm 139:23-24—then answer the question: Does my lifestyle satisfy the requirements stated in 2 Chronicles 7:14?

If your answer is depended on the actions of others, rather than on yourself, then I must say, you are part of the sleeping giant. Each believer must take responsibility for their own life when it comes to that verse.

Believers cannot turn things around while sleeping.

When I think of the Church as being a sleeping giant, I have mixed emotions. On one hand, I’m saddened, because God has equipped her with immeasurable power—yet she is underperforming as demonstrated by the diminishing reverence she once had in the world. Then on the other hand, I’m angry; as we sleep, Satan is taking corruption, immorality, and wickedness to unrecognizable levels.

Whoa! When the giant wakes . . .

Imagine for a moment how things would be on earth if the Church would take control through the power of the Holy Spirit. If God is for us who can be against us? (See Romans 8:31.) We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (see Philippians 4:13); Greater is He that is in us, than he that is within the world (see 1 John 4:4). God has already empowered us, but He needs us to use our faith and walk in that reality.

The devil knows the power of the Church. He’s going to do whatever; we allow him to do—that’ll keep the giant sleeping.

Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. ³ Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you (Revelation 3:2-3, NIV).

Are you sleep?

   © 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

image by cindy45 via CanStockPhoto

The world is hurting! There are no easy paths through or around COVID-19; it has entwined us into a painful terrain of thorns. Those who tested positive, and those who have lost loved ones—hurt the most. There’s no ticket out of this devastation; and if there were such a ticket—there’s no place to go—we’re all in this together.

Love is key!

I think one of the quickest ways to claw our way through this thicket, is to embrace: All people are equal in the sight of God; no matter where they call home.

For God shows no partiality [undue favor or unfairness; with Him one man is not different from another]. (Romans 2:11, AMP)

In Matthew 5:43-44, it tells us to love our neighbor as thyself. Who is our neighbor? Every single person on this planet—is every single person’s neighbor. The term neighbor—crosses all ethnic, socioeconomic, and boundary lines. When we mistreat and undervalue one another, we will reap the actions we have sown. (See Galatians 6:7-8.)

If we don’t learn anything else from this pandemic, it’s imperative that we realize God commands us to love one another; not withholding people who have nothing tangible to offer in return. (See Matthew 25.)

The world applauds!

Even though the ground is thorny—there are so many human-interest stories told about people sowing seeds of compassion. We touch the heart of God when we treat each other with love and respect. For example, those in the medical field who daily put their lives in danger, and some even lost their lives; the world applauds you. These treasured beings are literally on the battlefield working under deplorable conditions; social distancing—not applicable when caring for patients with the virus. When their shift is over, they can’t remove their heavy hearts as easily as they can strip off their protective gear; soap and water can’t wash away the stains of sadness.

Applauding. . .

Let’s not forget about those who work outside of the medical field; many times, these laborers are often taken for granted: the maintenance crew who discards all the contagious waste; workers who replenish barren shelves, clerks and cashiers who are working in harms’ way. Yet, many of these workers are working at minimum wage.

Still applauding . . .

The United States military—we salute you for erecting make-shift hospitals in a matter of days. Retirees—we applaud you for volunteering your expertise; truckers, driving across country to deliver food and supplies, thank you; good Samaritans, your generosity is deeply heartfelt—leaving boxes of groceries on porches of those in need. Philanthropists, checking on the lonely and forgotten; we applaud you, too.

I only listed a few of these precious souls for the sake of space; nevertheless, we all know who they are; they are the backbone, the engine—who God is using to keep things up and running during these unprecedented times.

The ground is thorny; but the soil is fertile.

Hopefully, by the time COVID-19 runs its course, the thorny grounds will have been replaced by green pastures. Thank you, humanitarians; your kind-heartedness is fertilizing this old self-centered, materialistic world.

The applauds continue. . .

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

image by Talaj via CanStockPhoto

Christians who are bored-stiff during this coronavirus pandemic, apparently haven’t opened their mail and read their “To Do” list from heaven. I’m using “mail” as a metaphor to mean: Seek what the Holy Spirit wants you to do. God’s ambassadors can’t relax their stance during wartime; and this is spiritual warfare. I know everybody isn’t going to understand what I’m talking about; might even think I’m crazy—I understand that. But there are some warriors who know exactly what I mean. Yes, we see suffering taking place; yet, while all the drama is unfolding, we mustn’t ignore the spiritual side of this.

Called for active duty!

If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; ¹⁴ If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turned from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:13-14).

The world is scratching their heads trying to figure out these unprecedented bizarre circumstances. Christians, on the other hand, have a direct link to the One Who knows what’s going on; these atrocious events are not out of His realm of control. This is why it’s essential for believers to continue to develop their relationship with the Holy Spirit; this is the perfect time to get closer to Him. He will use His children to show the world His Son. God has given so much; now is a time to give back to Him. The world is primed to hear from the Lord.

Open your mail—there’s work to do!

Let me give you a peek into my mail; not as a standard, but only as an example. Everybody’s mail is probably different.

My to do list from God:

• Every day spend quality one-on-one time with the Holy Spirit; maintain a sense of prayer throughout the day.
• Pray for My will to be done during this coronavirus pandemic.
• Develop your spiritual ear by purposefully paying attention to what I’m imparting into your spirit.
• By faith, be obedient to Me. For instance, call whomever I tell you to call and check on; pray for those on the frontline; pray for people who have lost their friends and loved ones.
• Ask Me to search your heart, and make you aware of your sinful ways. Ask Me to help you to overcome those areas.
• Listen to My instructions on how you can help Me during this crisis.
• Connect My Word with what’s going on in the world today; for example, read how people behaved in Noah’s day before the flood; read what was happening in the days of Sodom and Gomorrah. Read how I used people like Jeremiah and Gideon to do mighty feats; now ask yourself: What is the Holy Spirit calling me to do?
• Check with your Christian friends to see if they heard anything from Me that they can share; as well as letting them know things you’ve heard from Me that you can share.
• Check your mail regularly; list is subject to change.

I know God is preparing His people during this time; don’t know for what, but I do know He’s getting them ready. It would be regretful not to utilize and learn all that the Holy Spirit wants to teach during this pandemic. Everything He teaches is vital! What is God saying to you?

Please, don’t walk around the house undressed (see Ephesians 6:10-18).

Open your mail—the Lord has work for you to do.

© 2020

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Probably for the rest of our lives we’ll be recalling how we coped with this coronavirus pandemic. This slice of history will be entrenched in our minds—for better or worst. The theories as to why this virus invaded the world—will be discussed, debated, and analyzed for quite some time. Hopefully, we will have learned many lessons that generations to come will benefit from; for example, how we typically “do” church.

The fact that many church buildings are closed right now leaves me wondering: Why? I really think there’s a deeper spiritual reason other than stopping the spread of this disease. As a matter of fact, this whole pandemic can be interpreted spiritually.

God’s church is not a building.

Now that many church doors are closed, soon it will become apparently clear for those who didn’t already know—the church is not a structure made of bricks and mortar, but rather each individual believer is the church; the body of Christ. And we as believers, must view it as such.

Lord, what are you saying to Your church?

Here’s my take on it: Yes, the Word of God tells us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (see Hebrews 10:25). But many are deceived into thinking going to a church building is all that is needed to live a Christian life. All their praying is done there; all their Bible reading is done there, all praise and worship done there, too. Going to church is only a small portion of being a Christian. In some cases, going to church served as a crutch; now the crutch has been removed. Can you walk, now?

Religion without God!

Okay, I’m going to take a big BOLD step of faith and say, (not talking about all churches) God was not pleased with how things were going. In some churches, He had been replaced by larger-than-life egos, fighting over who offended whom, why did he do that; why her, not me? Petty bickering!

We know all the correct religious words and phrases; though, lacking the power of the Holy Spirit. What was sacred, has been replaced by the world’s practices and values. God is calling His church back to Holiness.

Cut—Time Out!

Generally speaking, the local churches have slowly drifted away from teaching and practicing holiness. We, as believers will have to answer for that. Therefore, this time out—is a period for us to reexamine our priorities.

A friend of mine correlated this virus to the flood in Noah’s day; he said this was our modern-day flood. (Read Genesis 6-9.) If this person is correct, then just being a member of a local church isn’t going to be enough to fight this battle.

We must take advantage of this time out in order to get ready for what’s in store down the line. I’m not saying this to frighten anyone; there’s no reason to fear for those in Christ. (See 2 Timothy 1:7.) However, this is not a cakewalk; this is serious. This is spiritual warfare!

Ways to prepare

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubled-minded (James 4:8).

We can prepare by getting to know God personally for ourselves—not as a casual acquaintance through someone else. We must repent and turn from our wicked ways. (See 2 Chronicles 7:14.) Spend quality time in meditation before Him. Let the Spirit examine our hearts; show us the error of our ways. We must get into His Word, and allow the Word to govern our lives.

Read Ephesians 6:10-18; make sure you are dressed for battle. Do some scriptural research, use the Internet if you like; cross reference various commentaries, ask the Holy Spirit for understanding. Whatever, spiritual level you’re on, you can always go higher.

  The pews are empty!

Yes, the pews are empty—for now. But if we each do our part to draw closer to God, when the church doors reopen—church will not be as usual. We will have matured spiritually. Believers should be excited; I’m excited because the power of the Holy Spirit is going to work through us like never before. We were evicted; but we’re coming back on FIRE!

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

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Presently, this coronavirus (COVID-19) has the world’s undivided attention; will man hear God—now? I’m not saying God caused the virus; I have no idea about that. However, I will say, He permitted it—and that’s all I need to know. And since He allowed it, I had better listen to what the Lord is saying.

A clarion call!

Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: (Isaiah 55:6)

This pandemic has humbled this grandiose, self-righteous, fallen world down to a measly marble—summoned before El Shaddai: God Almighty.

Charges: Man’s insatiable desire for more has crossed over into gluttony; immorality has no restraints; compassion for those in need—ignored; and hatred—cowardly hides behind a false sense of righteousness.

This world has been subpoenaed!

Those are just a few charges that must be addressed for such a time as this. It’s only because of God’s mercy that the world has been given a chance to get its act to together; work on one accord—during this international crisis; talk about irony. No one can afford to finger point and say it’s only happening over there to those people; everybody is defined as “those” people. We all have a stake in this global emergency.

I don’t just write these posts off the top of my head; I wait for the Holy Spirit’s inspiration. With that said, it’s time for the world to drop to its knees and repent while the Lord can be found. The word while suggest for a limited period of time; mercy before the wrath of God. Things aren’t bad, yet.

The believers’ role

I’ve heard believers say this pandemic doesn’t involve them; I beg to differ. I think every believer has been called before God to take on the role He has for them to do. The world is full of fearful people right now who are scrambling for the answers—that believers have.

Ask the Holy Spirit to equip you with the words He wants you to say, and the deeds He wants you to do. This is not a time to become immobilized by fear; there’s too much work to be done as an ambassador for Christ. (See 2 Corinthians 5:20.)

. . . The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; ³⁸ Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest (Matthew 9:37-38).

If there ever was a time for the world to hear from the Lord, it is now. Stay prayerful; ask God to open your spiritual ear so you can receive the revelation He wants you to know. Position yourself in His presence, so you can hear from Him.

God knows how to COMMAND an audience!

In closing:

For me, during this trying time, I’m walking by faith; while I use wisdom. Faith and wisdom are both given to us by God; they complement each other; they work hand-in-hand; one does not exclude the other.

. . . God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith (Romans 12:3b).

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and unbraideth not; and it shall be given him (James 1:5).

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

 

 

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Well, you know what they say—where there’s smoke there’s fire. Last week I talked about how spending regular one-on-one time with God is like being immersed in smoke (see “Do You Smell Like Smoke?”). This week I’m continuing only to say: Collectively, spirit-filled Christians have enough Holy Ghost fire, meaning the glory and power of God in and on them, to set this whole world on fire for the Lord. But, there’s a glitch—the devil is after the same territory.

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turned from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

I truly believe we are at a pivotal point in God’s overall plan for humanity. Also, I think this period of time is just as significant as those hair-raising events recorded in the Bible. The question is: Do we have the faith Noah, Moses, and other heroic souls had for us to hear and obey God’s instructions? God’s master plan didn’t stop with those courageous beings; on the contrary, the plan continues from generation to generation. . .

Holy Ghost Cues

When we experience an emotional touch from the Spirit, the purpose of that intensified moment isn’t to give us a goose-bump thrill, but should be viewed as one of the cues for us to fight spiritually. When those “electrified” moments occur, we should open our spiritual ear to receive instructions as to what the Lord wants us to do with all this flowing energy.

You see, once we gave our lives to Christ, we are on call 24/7—agents in a foreign land—ready to witness to a lost world. We are equipped with gifts, talents, and the Spirit of God living within us; everything needed to carry out our special duties.

Fire Wars

But the devil is not going to relinquish his hold without combat. Even though signs of the last days are outlined in Matthew 24, some of us are in bewilderment—scratching our heads as to the unconscionable acts we are observing on earth today. However, we don’t have the privilege of being shocked to the point of being immobilized, because the enemy is not going to lighten up—if anything, he’s going to get worse.

Therefore, believers must prepare and stay ready. (See Ephesians 6:10-18.) We must continue to build and strengthen our relationship with God; having a casual acquaintance will not do in these serious times. We can’t hide our heads in the sand thinking we can ignore the inevitable; won’t work—the bottom half of our anatomy is exposed.

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12).

As troubling as things are, we should never allow the fiery flames of intimidation to drive us away from our heavenly missions. The devil speaks boldly, while having the audacity to dare us to speak what saith the Lord. We must speak unapologetically; keep in mind, hell’s flares cannot compete with the fire of the Holy Ghost. Greater is He that’s in us, than he that’s in the world (see 1 John 4:4).

These fire wars have been going on way before we came on the scene; and will continue after our departure. The only say so we have in the matter is—on whose side of the flame will we stand?

© 2020

See you next week on Paulette Talks Faith.