Tag: born again

Washed in the Blood

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Washed in the Blood: Seeing Yourself As God Sees You

In a world that constantly tells us who we are based on our performance, appearance, or past, it’s easy to lose sight of our true identity. But there is a clear lens through which we are meant to see ourselves: through the blood of Jesus.

This isn’t just a religious concept—it’s a transformational reality that changes everything. God doesn’t see you the way others do. He doesn’t even see you the way you often see yourself. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, God sees you as clean, innocent, holy, and dearly loved.

The Old You: Driven by Self, Separated from God

Before encountering Jesus, we are driven by self-centered desires—trying to find love, security, and meaning in all the wrong places. We may never shed literal blood, but in a figurative sense, we wound others in the pursuit of our own agendas—through harsh words, broken promises, envy, pride, or selfish ambition.

“Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood; their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths.”

— Isaiah 59:7 NKJV

This is life apart from God—a broken identity searching for worth in a broken world.

Jesus Shed His Blood to Rescue You

But God, in His incredible mercy, sent Jesus—not to judge us, but to rescue us. Jesus didn’t come to condemn your brokenness but to take it upon Himself. He shed His blood to free you from the old self and to put this fallen world behind you.

“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

— Romans 5:8 NKJV

“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.”

— Ephesians 1:7 NKJV

Through the cross, Jesus not only paid for your sins—He gave you a brand-new identity.

You Are Now Clean, Innocent, and Holy

The blood of Jesus doesn’t just cleanse—it transforms. You are no longer the sum of your failures. You are no longer distant from God. You are no longer guilty.

“And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled… to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight.”

— Colossians 1:21–22 NKJV

When the Father looks at you, He sees you through the lens of Jesus’ finished work. You are not tolerated—you are cherished. You are not barely forgiven—you are fully accepted.

You Are Seated with Christ in Heavenly Places

This new identity doesn’t just clean you up—it elevates you. Spiritually, you’ve been raised with Christ and positioned in a place of victory and intimacy with the Father.

“…and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”

— Ephesians 2:6 NKJV

You don’t have to live beneath the weight of sin, shame, or your past. You have been seated above them, united with Christ, empowered to live from a place of confidence and rest.

You Are Reunited with the Father and Filled with His Love

Because of Jesus’ blood, you’re no longer separated from God. You have direct access to the Father—not based on your righteousness, but His.

“Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus…”

— Hebrews 10:19 NKJV

“The love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

— Romans 5:5 NKJV

This love fills you from the inside out. You are no longer a spiritual orphan. You are a beloved child of God.

Practical Steps: Living in the Finished Work of Jesus

How do you begin to see yourself as God sees you?

1. Renew Your Mind Daily with God’s Word

Truth doesn’t come from feelings or social media—it comes from Scripture.

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”

— Romans 12:2 NKJV

Read the Word. Meditate on it. Speak it. Let it become more real to you than your past or emotions.

2. Confess and Agree with God’s View of You

Your words shape your reality. Declare what God says is true:

“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy.”

— Psalm 107:2 NKJV

Speak life over yourself. Align your mouth with Heaven’s verdict.

3. Put Off the Old, Put On the New

You’ve been made new—but now you must choose to live like it.

“Put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man… and put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.”

— Ephesians 4:22–24 NKJV

Turn from shame, bitterness, and fear. Choose humility, boldness, and grace.

4. Ask the Holy Spirit to Reveal Jesus in You

Transformation is not by effort, but by grace through the Spirit. Invite Him in

“My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you…”

— Galatians 4:19 NKJV

Let the Holy Spirit reveal Christ alive in you, and your actions will begin to reflect your new identity.

5. Walk Boldly in Your God Given Purpose

You were not saved to stay stuck—you were saved to shine.

“Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.”

— Isaiah 60:1 NKJV

Pursue your purpose. Do all to the glory of God. You are not disqualified—you are called, equipped, and sent.

Confession / Positive Affirmation Prayer

Speak this aloud to renew your heart and align your identity with Heaven’s truth:

Father, I thank You for the blood of Jesus.
I believe Jesus died for me while I was still a sinner.
His blood has washed me clean. I am forgiven. I am free.

I confess today that I am a child of God.
I am no longer a slave to sin, fear, or shame.
Jesus intercedes for me, and His blood speaks better things over my life—mercy, not judgment; healing, not punishment; restoration, not rejection.

Through His blood, I am:

  • Redeemed (Ephesians 1:7)

  • Justified (Romans 5:9)

  • Sanctified (Hebrews 10:10)

  • Cleansed (1 John 1:7)

  • Bold before the Father (Hebrews 10:19)

God sees me as holy, innocent, and blameless in His sight.
I put off the old me, and I put on the new—created in righteousness and true holiness.

I have been raised with Christ and seated in heavenly places.
I am filled with the love of the Father.
I am empowered by the Holy Spirit.
I will walk boldly in my calling to bring glory to God in all I do.

There is no condemnation for me, because I am in Christ Jesus.
I choose to see myself through the finished work of the cross.
I choose to live as God’s beloved child—redeemed, restored, and alive with purpose.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Final Thoughts

You are not your past.
You are not your sin.
You are not your shame.

You are a new creation—seen, loved, and empowered by God. Through Jesus’ blood, you are invited to see yourself the way He does: clean, holy, and full of purpose.

Today, believe it. Speak it. Walk in it.

Let the blood of Jesus define you—
not your past, not your performance, and not your pain.

 

Baptism – What, Why, Who, How, When

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Baptism – What, Why, Who, How, When

Baptism Should Transform You. Have You Really Been Baptized?

Introduction

Baptism is a very common Christian term, but few understand what it is really all about and as a result few get the full transformational benefits it can provide.

I have come to appreciate Baptism as a powerful and transformative process, and what you get out of it depends entirely on your understanding of what you are doing and why you are doing it. For example, if you see water Baptism as an initiation ritual you must go through to become a member of a church, it will do nothing for you other than get you wet. Executing each step of the process with understanding, intention and commitment will result in a truly transformational change, it will release you from your past and unleash God’s full potential into your life.

There is a lot of baggage with the term Baptism, a lot of pre-conceived notions, and a lot of mis-information. God’s Word is the truth, and the truth will set us free.  I will offer a full scripture approach to set you on solid ground and help you get full value from your Baptism experience.  Follow along with an open mind as we pursue Baptism: What, Why, Who, How, When? And then answer some frequently asked questions

Baptism:

Baptism is an essential process in the Christian life. Many view it as merely a ritual serving as an outward expression of their faith, but when executed properly baptism brings a powerful life changing spiritual transformation.

Let’s start with some definitions and some expectations:

Baptism is a big focus in scripture; The new testament mentions the topic of baptism 92 times.

Just before Jesus ascends to heaven, He commands his follower to go make disciples of all nations and baptize them.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” Matthew 28:19

What is Baptism:

The Greek word used in the bible is baptizó, which means to submerge, or immerse.

In Greek literature, Baptizo implied a complete and overwhelming initiation into something new by full submersion.

A simple example: A cucumber is baptized (fully submerged) in a vinegar solution for a period of time long enough that it transforms completely into a pickle. If you look closely at a pickle, you can tell it was once a cucumber, but it has been completely transformed by the chemical process and it has earned a new name. A cucumber becomes a pickle through baptism in vinegar.

A modern example: ”Baptism by fire” into a new job; If you get assigned a big new job, you have to learn and tackle so many new and different tasks under pressure you cannot possibly do it continuing to use your old ways. You have to find a new way to deal with this situation and you became a new person as a result, you are changed by the process. You become baptized by fire into your new job.

What does this mean in a religious sense?  Baptism implies full submersion of your spirit, soul and body,  and you should expect transformation as a result. You will not be the same after you go through it.

Baptism in the bible, What and Why?

Ok, so Baptism is a big deal and we should be changed by the process. What exactly does the bible say about baptism.

There are actually three baptism processes described in the bible. This is a point of great debate on this topic but if you dig into The Word and really pay attention, you will find this to be true. I will describe the three and offer a couple of key verses to help you see them and see how each of them works.

  1. Baptism by the Holy Spirit with Jesus Blood into the Body Of Christ – The Holy Spirit adopts the believer into and under the sacrificial Blood of Jesus. This happens automatically and supernaturally at the moment of true heartfelt confession and acceptance of Jesus as your Lord. As a result of this process, the person is registered as a believer and becomes an official member of the Body of Christ.

“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:13

  1. Baptism by a Disciple with Water into Repentance – A proficient disciple will walk a believer through a conscious decision to a) Turn from sin and nail their old sinful nature to the cross with Jesus, b) Become dead to sin by burying their old life in the grave with Jesus as they are submerged in water, and then c) Be raised into new life with Christ, washed of your sins, as you raise up out of the water.

“And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.” Acts 22:16

  1. Baptism with the Spirit into Power for New Life – Jesus imparts the Holy Spirit to empower the believer for a transformed life. We are called to yield ourselves and be led by the spirit rather than continue to be led by the flesh. The Holy Spirit and the power that raised Jesus form the dead is available to any believer, All we need to do is ask.

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8

Each of these three baptism processes involves full immersion and transformation but in a different way, and each plays a vital role in the life of an effective believer. The first immerses your spirit and happens automatically when you first believe, the second immerses your body and soul and is facilitated by a disciple who helps you shed your past and unlock your future, and the third immerses your spirit, soul and body and happens when you are ready to yield yourself to Jesus and let Him do some serious work through you. As we go into more detail, I am hopeful you will see how each works individually, and how they all connect together as a chain to bring the Kingdom of God into place on earth as it is in heaven.

The Three Baptisms in a bit more detail

#1: Baptism by the Holy Spirit with Blood

Who:
This baptism occurs automatically when a person humbles themselves and confesses Jesus as Lord of their life. It is the work of the Holy Spirit who, through the atoning power of Jesus’ blood, adopts the believer into God’s family.

What:
At the moment of confession, very specific things happen:

a) The believer’s spirit is born again, refreshed, set anew

“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3)

b) The believer’s heart is transformed. The cold hardened heart is replaced with a heart of flesh, compassion for others, and a love for doing what is right for God.

“I will give you a new heart and a new spirit I will put within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh” Ezekiel 36:26

c) The believers is adopted into the Family of God, they are registered in the book of life, and they become a member of the Body of Christ.

“For you did not receive a spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Romans 8:15)

“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body…” (1 Corinthians 12:13)

“Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.” (1 Corinthians 12:27)

d) The believer is brought under the cover of the cleansing and redeeming blood of Jesus. Jesus intercedes for them, they are forgiven, and The Father sees them innocent and holy through Jesus blood

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7)

“But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7)

“And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight.” (Colossians 1:21-22)

Why:
This spiritual act is vital because it secures salvation and brings about a fundamental change in the believer’s identity. The blood of Jesus not only cleanses sin but also establishes the covenant relationship with God.

“unless you are born again, you will not see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3)

How:
It is an instantaneous work of the Holy Spirit that occurs at the moment of genuine confession of faith in Jesus as Lord. There is no human ritual required to activate this spiritual baptism—it is God’s gracious act.

“…if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”  (Romans 10:9-10)

When:
This baptism takes place immediately upon confession, marking the believer’s entry into God’s family. This is the act that is performed by Grace when triggered by our Faith. You know it has happened when you notice a shift in your heart. You are more compassionate towards others, you are more interested in learning about God and becoming more righteous. Your conscience wakes up and you start to notice when you do things that are not pleasing to God.  ie: you start to care.

#2: Baptism with Water into Repentance Of Sin

Who:
A disciple or a church leader administers water baptism. This act is performed on those who have chosen to turn away from sin and publicly declare their new life in Christ.

What:
Water baptism brings a believer into fellowship with the humble suffering, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As the believer works through the process steps they crucify their sinful nature on the cross with Jesus, bury their old self and all their baggage in the grave with Jesus, and are raised into new life with His resurrection.

“Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4)

“For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:27)

“…How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:2-4

Why:
Jesus Himself provided the model for baptism. He was baptized by John the Baptist as an adult, and later, along with His disciples, baptized thousands in water. This act is not merely symbolic; it represents a deliberate choice to:

    • Join in fellowship with the humility and suffering of Christ.
    • Crucify our sinful nature and nail our sinful ways to Jesus’ cross.
    • Bury our old self and its consequences in the grave with Jesus.
    • Be raised into a new life mirroring Jesus’ resurrection.

By understanding and intentionally participating in water baptism, a believer publicly renounces self-centeredness and embraces a transformed life.

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38)

How:
Water baptism is executed by full immersion, which visually represents the believer’s death to sin and resurrection to new life. For it to be fully effective, It must be performed with full understanding of how we are coming into fellowship with Jesus’s suffering sacrifice and with a heartfelt commitment to change as a result.

Crucifying the Sinful Nature:

We are making a conscious decision to cut off our old ways and nail our sinful nature to the cross with Jesus. This act symbolizes the death of the old self that was distracted and enslaved by sin.

“For we know that our old self was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with…” (Romans 6:6)

Burying the Past:

In water baptism, the old self goes down into the water to be buried in the tomb with Jesus.  Our old body of work and the consequences of our past sins are buried, allowing the believer to cut ties with the past and be released from the guilt, shame and condemnation from past sins.

Resurrection to New Life:

Just as Christ was raised from the dead, believers are raised to a new life of righteousness and empowerment. The past has been washed, cleansed and behind us. We are led forward by Jesus into new life.

“…that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4)

Understanding and Intentionality:
The full value of water baptism is only realized when the believer understands its significance. It requires an intentional shedding of self-centeredness and a deliberate commitment to crucify sinful ways, bury the past, and embrace the new life offered in Christ.

When:
This baptism is administered after a person’s confession of faith. It is typically performed when the individual is old enough to understand the commitment, which is why the most effective churches advocate for baptism as a conscious adult soon after accepting Jesus.

#3: Baptism with the Spirit into Power for the New Life

Who:
Jesus baptizes the believer with the Holy Spirit when we are committed enough to submit ourselves to Him and ask. This is not performed by a human agent but is the sovereign work of Christ when one invites Him in to lead their life.

What:
Baptism with the Holy Spirit imparts spiritual power, equipping the believer for effective ministry and a victorious life in Christ. The presence of the Holy Spirit empowers the individual to overcome sin and live according to God’s will, doing the good works He has placed before him. You can distinguish this baptism from the prior 2 if you pay attention, you see Jesus receiving the Holy Spirit immediately after His Water Baptism, You see the disciples receive the Holy Spirit in the upper room at pentacost and begin speaking in tongues. Each of us can receive the Holy Spirit and its power when we are ready to ask and yield to it.

“For John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Acts 1:5)

“When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him.” (Matthew 3:16)

“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” Acts 2:1-4

Why:
Empowerment by the Holy Spirit is essential for living out the Christian faith. It brings spiritual gifts, deepens one’s relationship with God, and enables the believer to witness and serve effectively.

“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5)

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…” (Acts 1:8)

“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all”.        (1 Corinthians 12:4-7)

How:
This baptism occurs when Jesus is invited in to lead the believer’s life. The Holy Spirit may manifest in different ways in different people, yet its primary role is to transform and empower.

“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him? (Luke 11:13)

When:
This can happen any time, but most times the participant is on a developmental journey and becomes ready to ask for the Holy Spirit sometime soon after water baptism. If the participant is hungry for growth and is ready, it can happen immediately following water baptism as it did with Jesus,  other times, as with me, it was a distinct experience that followed several months after. The Holy Spirit is available to every believer who is ready for Jesus to come and dwell in them and lead them into His calling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why Baptism as an Adult?

Answer:

Adult baptism ensures that the individual makes a conscious, informed decision to follow Christ. It is a public testimony of personal repentance, faith, and commitment to a new way of life. Baptism as an adult signifies that one has understood the gravity of sin, the need for redemption, and the transformational power of Christ’s resurrection.

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38)

Q: Why Full Immersion?

Answer:

Full immersion in water powerfully symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It visually represents the believer’s complete break with the old self and full emergence into a renewed life in Christ. Partial immersion or sprinkling does not capture this dramatic transition as effectively.

“Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead… even so we also should walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4)

Q: How About Infant Christening?

Answer:

Infant Christening is often practiced as a sign of the parents’ intention and commitment to raise the child in the faith. However, it is not equivalent to the believer’s personal act of repentance and conscious decision required for true baptism. While it symbolizes a hopeful dedication, the full value of baptism is realized only when an individual can understand and accept Christ personally.

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38)

Q: Can a person be baptized more than once?

Answer:

Water baptism is usually viewed as a one-time public declaration of faith. The Holy Spirit Baptism into the body of Christ is a one-time good deal. But you are welcome to undergo baptism by water as often as you like to purge more and more of your past as you come to realize how mired you were in ungodly beliefs ad wish to be renewed.

Q: What is the significance of the baptism with the Holy Spirit?

Answer:

Baptism with the Spirit brings empowerment for daily Christian living, equips believers with spiritual gifts, and marks the beginning of a deep, transformative relationship with God.

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” (Acts 1:8 NKJV)

Q: How are these baptisms interconnected?

Answer:

They represent sequential aspects of salvation and spiritual transformation. The Holy Spirit’s work (baptism with blood) adopts the believer into God’s family; Water baptism brings you into fellowship with Jesus suffering so we can gain the benefit of His sacrificial work in our life, and baptism with the Holy Spirit empowers the believer for a victorious new life.

Conclusion

Baptism in its three forms is a profound application of faith bringing humility, repentance and transformation. Through the instantaneous work of the Holy Spirit—with the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood—a believer is adopted into God’s family for eternity. Water baptism, when undertaken with full immersion and understanding, brings us into fellowship with Jesus and His deliberate choices to become sinless and to suffer for the sake of others. Finally, the baptism with the Spirit provides the power and gifts necessary for living a victorious Christian life. Each aspect of baptism reinforces the believer’s identity in Christ and underscores the importance of a conscious, transformative commitment to following Jesus.

My hope is that this post helps folks understand what is going on with the Baptism process, encourages you, and serves as a guide for those seeking to understand the deep significance of baptism in their spiritual journey.

 

Your New Identity in Christ

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Declaration: Your New Identity In Christ

 

Introduction:

One of the most powerful things you can do to improve your life is to embrace your new Identity in Christ.

God invested time and energy to put you here at this time and this place. He created you in His image and built you with great gifts and talent to do good. He has great plans for you and high expectations.  Your potential has been limited by the sinful nature you inhereted from Adam and the lessons you have learned and habits you have develooped in the fallen world you grown up in. Jesus sacrificed Himself on the cross to free you from that sinful nature and release your full potential.  A key part of unlocking your full potential is understanding who you are now that you have confessed your sins, repented and turned from them, and accepted Jesus as your lord and savior.

You are no longer the same person you were before; Your spirit had been born again, You have been reconnected with God the Father through Jesus, Your past has been covered by Jesus blood,  Your heart has been warmed so you feel more compassion for others, and you now wish to live a better life with God rather than continuing on apart from Him. This change is your own personal miracle. 

I find that few Christians understand the full extent of these changes, and what they mean to them in practical terms. They miss out on the full power of what Jesus has done for them, and as a result don’t life the life God intended when He put them here.

To get this right, We need to get our heart interested enough to devote the energy to pursue it, then get our mind engaged to understand what this is all about, then see value and practical application in the path it offers, then get our heart and soul to embrace it with committment and conviction.    

The most effective way I have found to get our head, heart, soul and spirit all aligned and engaged on your new Identity in Christ is to declare your intentions. When you assemble and understand God’s written words for you, and you speak them outloud with the authoirty you have been given, you begin to see from a new perspective. As you work through questions and gain deeper understanding, you become aligned and begin to embrace this new identity and your role in God’s grand scheme . Your mind is renewed and you begin to see Gods perfect will for you.

Here is a strawman for your consideration. Read this outloud and notice any points where you have questions or doubt. Work through the related scriptures and ask questions. Become more bold as you go and you will see confidence and Faith beginning to fill you and empower you. Let me know how this works for you.

Declaration of My New Identity In Christ.

Heavenly Father, I Hereby declare:

  • I have repented and turned from my sinful ways.  I believe and have accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior in Faith. (Romans 10:8-10)
  • I am born again.  (John 3:3, Psalm 51:10)
    • I have a new heart and a new spirit, I have a renewed love for God and for His righteousness. I will align with God’s will and follow Jesus. (Romans 8:16, Ezekiel 36:26-27)
  • I am no longer defined by my past, it is covered and washed by Jesus’ Blood. .(Hebrews 9:14,Isaiah 1:18)
    • I have been justified, reconnected and made righteous before God through Jesus blood. (Romans 5:1, 2 Corinthians 5:21)
    • Through His blood, I am redeemed, fully forgiven, and cleansed from all unrighteousness. (Ephesians 1:7, 1 John 1:9)
    • Through His Blood, the Father now sees me as innocent, holy, blameless and above reproach.(Colossians 1:21-22)
    • There is no room for guilt, shame or condemnation. (Romans 8:1)
  • I am not my own, but have been bought with a price. (1 Corinthians 6:19, 1 Peter 1:18-19, Mark 10:45, Romans 14:8) .
    • This life is no longer all about me. I am merely a vessel for His use and will glorify God with my body.(1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
    • I am not here to please man, but to please God. (Galatians 1:10, Matthew 10:28)
    • I have denied my earthly “self” and will pick up my cross. (Matthew 16:24)
    • I will perfect God’s love and demonstrate fellowship with Jesus in suffering to serve others..(Romans 8:17, Philippians 1:29, 3:10)
  • I am a new creation in Christ; The old has gone, and the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17).
    • I have crucified my old ways on the cross with Christ, It is no longer I who lives this life, but Christ through me. (Galatians 2:20)
    • I have put off the old man and am putting on the new man who is renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. (Ephesians 4:22-24, Colossians 3:10)
  • I am now focused forward, on God’s upward calling (Philippians 3:13-14)
    • I am an eternal soul created by God, just passing through this temporary earthly life.(1 Chronicles 29:15)
    • I am focused on things above rather than things here.(Colossians 3:2)
    • I am focused on treasure in heaven rather than treasures on earth (Matthew 6:19-20)
    • I am seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.  (Matthew 6:33)
  • I am now a child of God, an adopted son (John 1:12, Galatians 3:26, Ephesians 1:5)
    • I am blessed as an heir of God, and fellow heir with Christ (Romans 8:15-17)
    • I am blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 1:3)
    • I am no longer a slave to sin but am now a slave to God.  (Romans 6:16-18, Galatians 4:7, 1 John 3:1)
    • I am one of the chosen, a royal priest, part of a holy nation, called out of darkness into His marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9)
    • I am seated with Christ in heavenly places, and nothing can separate me from His love. (Ephesians 2:6, Romans 8:38-39)
  • I have invited the Holy Spirit and He now dwells within me, empowering me to live a victorious and holy life. (1 Corinthians 6:19, Romans 8:11)
    • I am equipped with the full armor of God to stand against the schemes of the enemy. (Ephesians 6:10-17)
    • I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me. (Romans 8:37)
    • I have been given authority over the enemy, and no weapon formed against me shall prosper. (Luke 10:19, Isaiah 54:17)
    • I have peace that surpasses all understanding and joy that cannot be taken away. (Philippians 4:7, John 16:22)
  • God has great plans for me, plans to prosper me and give me a hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
  • He works all things together for my good because I love Him and am called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
  • I am His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which He prepared in advance for me to walk in. (Ephesians 2:10)
  • I declare I am victorious, redeemed, and loved, standing firm in the promises of God, who is faithful to fulfill every word. (2 Corinthians 1:20, Hebrews 10:23)

I speak this in Jesus Holy Name. Amen.

Receive The Holy Spirit – Pray In Tongues

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Receive The Holy Spirit – Pray In Tongues

We are encouraged to “pray always, in the spirit”. That means we need to have received the Holy Spirit and then yield our mouth and tongue to release our spirit to pray directly to God, this is know as Speaking in Tongues.

“Receiving the Holy Spirit” and “Speaking In Tongues” are two topics at the center of discussion and debate dividing many Christian denominations. Conservative folks think speaking in togues is a bunch of worthless charismatic nonsense, it should have ceased centuries ago and these days only serves to distract believers and skare away non-believers. Most  Charismatic groups believe the only way to truly know if you have the Holy Spirit is if you can Speak in Tongues. Conservative groups believe we receive inflow of the Holy Spirit automatically when we confess faith at salvation and there is nothing more to be recieved. Charismatic groups believe there is a bold and dramatic inflow available if we ask for it, and this “Baptism in the spirit” opens the door to powerful spiritual gifts that empower believers to do bold works of faith for the kingdom. As with most religious debates, once you dig into scripture with an open mind, and lay out the truth, you will find that both groups have some of it right. The truth will indeed set you free. 

This post will lay out the scriptural truth about receiving the Holy Spirit, and Speaking in Tongues. This should clarify our understanding and give is a clear path to follow moving forward. As a spoiler alert, I will show you that we do indeed recieve an inflow of the Holy Spirit at salvation, this inflow is automatic and can be nearly invisible to us if we are not looking for its’ effects on us. I will show you that there is an even more pronounced inflow available to us when we are ready to yield ourselves and receive it. I will show you how speaking in tongues is one way you can confirm that we have received this full conneciton to the Holy Spirit.  I will provide a step by step process to ask for and recieve the Holy Spirit conneciton, and offer some guidelines for speaking in tongues to reduce the potential distraction it can cause others. 

Why is this a big deal?

We are spiritual beings and God is a spiritual being. God created us in His image and put us here for a purpose. Becasue of the sinful nature we inherited from Adam and years of life in this fallen world, we have become highly distracted form our purpose and our spirit has become numb, weak, and ineffective. Jesus gave us a path to wake up our spiritual natrue, reset our past, and restore our purpose. The more we yield our earthly self to God, the more He can help us realie our intended purpsoe. For example: When you yield your destiny, He can save us. When you deny our old life, He can give you new life. When your spirit has been born again, we are re-connected to the Father and have access to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit can work inside us to transform our thinking so we can live the life God intended and overcome obstacles in the earthyl life. It can also work through us to do good works to serve others in God’s kingdom. We can change our world by speaking the right words; Life and Death are in the power of the tongue. When we get the Holy Spirit properly connected to our spirit and allow them to speak together through our mouth, God can actualyl move creation foward through us and cause His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, It is not a bad thing to be able to halp God further His kingdom. 

What:

The Holy Spirit is the third leg of the trinity: God the Father, Jesus the son, and The Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has been around since the beginning, and it is the leg of the trinity that deploys and makes things happen. It causes supernatural events to take place, it can send messages into peopels brains, it can move their emotions, and it can get thier attention. The old testiment is full of stories where people had been impacted by the Holy Spirit and were moved to take action.

When Jesus came to earth, he closed the book on the old testament, and changed the game. As Jesus was finishing up His work on earth and before He ascended up to heven, He promised to aks the Father to repackage the Holy Spirit and deliver it as a direct helper to each believer. This new Holy Spirit conneciton allows Jesus to come and live in each one of us and then work through us.

“If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” John 14:15-18

He teaches us and guides us into the truth.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 14:26

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” John 16:13

We receive an inflow of the Holy Spirit when we initially confess our faith in Jesus. This inflow rejuvinates and refreshes our inner spirit, it connects our spirit to the Holy Spirit, and it renews our heart.  It replacing the cold and calous heart we have developed after years in this fallen world, with a heart more sensitive to the needs of others. It also activates our conscience, making it more sensitive to our actions which are misaligned with God’s intention for us. Insead of being entirely focused on our own agenda and being blind to everythign else, we begin to care. 

“…Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:36-38

“And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26

The disciples actually recieved two doses of the Holy Spirit. The first happened just after Jesus was resurrected. 

“So Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.’ And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'” John 20:21-22

His statement about “Peace be with you” cofirms that this initial inflow of the Holy Spirit is accomplishing salvation. The disciples were being spiritually reconnected to the Father. Jesus sacrificial blood was now in place on the mercy seat in heaven and it was able to forgive them. Their sinful nature was now covered by His blood, and they were at peace with the Father. This is the initial inflow of the Holy Spirit that we each recieve automatically at salvation. It is the beginning of an amazing tranformation if we yield to it an let it lead us.   

The disciples received a second dose of the Holy Spirit at pentacost. They were told wait in Jerusalem until they to recieved a “Baptism” with the Holy Spirit. This baptism would bring power so they could be effective witnesses for Jesus.

“And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me;  for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” Acts 1:4

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 

They received this “baptism in the spirit”  in a dramatic fashion and immediately had an outpouring of the spirit from thier mouths

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:1-4

This historic account shows us that there are at least two modes that the Holy Spirit can move in, A nuanced almost inviibile inflow that can change our inner nature, and a more bold “baptism” where we are emersed, filled to the point of overflowing, and the outpouring from our heart comes out our mouth in a new language. Both were  possible then, and scripture tells believers to expect them to happen now.

The power from the Holy Spirit only comes when you understand and beleive.  You have to want the full power of the Holy Spirit and ask for it in Jesus name.

Paul had to do some catch up work when some confessed believers did not understand what was avaialble to them, and ask for it in Jesus’ name.

“He said to them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’  So they said to him, ‘We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.’

And he said to them, ‘Into what then were you baptized?’    So they said, ‘Into John’s baptism.’  

Then Paul said, ‘John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.’   When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.” Acts 19:2-6

Folks who do not believe in the baptism of the spirit or the power that it brings, will not recieve that power. Just like other spiritual gifts, If you do not believe in divine healing, you will not see much divine healing in your life. These things are a self fulfilling prophesy.  

Recieving the Holy Spirit is considerd a seal or confirmation that a person has sucessfully repented, confessed thier sins, and accepted Jesus as thier savior.

“In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in Him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. “Ephesians 1:13

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.Ephesians 4:30

Speaking in tongues was used as the outward signal that a person had recieved the Holy Spirit. Scripture gives many examples of this process.

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4

 “While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God.” Acts 10:44-46

“And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.” Acts 19:6 

Scripture makes it clear that believers are intended and expected to Speak in Tongues, and to Pray routinely in the Spirit.

“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;” Mark 16:17

“…praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,…” Ephesians 6:18

The Holy Spirit empowers a series of spiritual gifts, tools to help us overcome this world and to help others on thier journey. Speaking in tongues is just one of the nine spiritual gifts available to members of the Body of Christ who have received baptism in the Holy Spirit:

Spiritual Gift

 Description

Word of Wisdom

 Receive divine insight on the appropriate approach for a situation. ie: God’s will revealed

Word of Knowledge

 Receive revelation of a hidden problem to open a conversation.  Ex: You have a torn tendon from a sports injury

Faith 

 Boldly believe and act on something not yet seen

Gifts of Healings 

 Facilitate flow of various modes of healing

Working of Miracles

 Facilitate manifestation of supernatural signs and wonders

Prophecy

 Receive and convey divine messages from God to help find thier path forward

Discerning of Spirits

 Sense spiritual activity and identify specific causes

Speaking in Tongues

 Your spirit speaking in a different language, to God in a unique language, or to others in thier own language

Interpretation of Tongues

 Interpreting someone else’s unique language

We are encouraged to pursue the spiritual gifts, incuding speaking in tongues.

“Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts,…” 1 Corinthians 14:1

“The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, …  Now I want you all to speak in tongues,” 1 Corinthians 14:4-5

I have had many experieinces with most of these gifts over the last few years. The only one i have not personally experienced is interpretation.

Some of my testimonies are avaialbe on youtube. Here is a <link>    Check them out if you like.  I am happy to share my testimony with anyone who is serious about living a life led by the spirit.   

Why:

We are expected to imitate Jesus. 

“Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 

Jesus recieved the Holy Spirit and power after His baptism in the Jordan and went about doing good deeds and healing those afflicted by the devil.  

“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.” Acts 10:38

The Hly Spirit works through us and brings power needed to do the works that Jesus did and more.

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” John 14:12-14

The Holy Spirit works inside us, it builds us up and gives us access to several tangible fruits like hope and peace and love.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 [a]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Baptism in the Holy Spirit releases power; Power to overcome obstacles in your life. Power to help others overcome obstacles in thier lives.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 

“I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Matthew 3:11

“But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” Romans 8:11

If we are thirsty and want it bably enough, the Holy Spirit will fill us to the point of overflowing. 

“And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness” Luke 4:1 

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit” Ephesians 5:18

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4

When we give voice to our spirit and allow it to express it’s prayers we are able to speak directly to God. This allows us to worship Him, to magnify Him with a unique and dedicated language devoted entirely to Him.

“For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 14:39

“For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God“. Acts 10:46

“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.” Ephesians 5:18-21

Praying in the spirit brings us focus. It releases all distractions and competing agendas and allows us to focus specifically on commuicating with God. When we disconnect our mind from thinking about what to say and put out entire focus on commuicating with God, it opens the door to inflow of constructive thoughts and messages. It also brings a strong sense of connection to God. He is no longer distant, we are directly connected to Him. It demonstrates a level of yielding of our physical body and overcoming our inhibitions. It is a step in our journey to yielding ourselves and being led by the spirit. The builds confidence in our connection and enables faith to flow in. Scripture says we are edified or built up by this process. 

“But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.” Jude 1:20 

 “He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church” 1 Corinthians 14:4:

When:

I find speaking in tongues helpful in three main scenarios

To Get In The Zone – When you want to tune in and focus your attention on God

“For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.” 1 Corinthians 14:14-15

“He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification. 1 Corinthians 14:4-6

In Weakness – When uncertain about what is going on or how to pray about it. Spending a few moments speaking in tongues will often release revelation on how to proceed.

“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” Romans 8:26

To Be Bold / Fervent / Emphatic – When you want to muster all available energy and apply it towards what ever obstacle you are addressing

“… The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16

Always pursue your acitons with the Holy Spirit and through the Holy Spirit with love. Doing religious things just for the sake of doing them and being religious is not productive. You should always have a purpose rooted in love, a purpose ot serve others. All of your actions should be oriented to serve that end.

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13:1

When not to blurt out in public in a strange language is just as important. Speaking in tongues does nothing for an observer unless somenone is able to interpret what you are saying. It is best to properly manage your vocalization in the spirit. Keep it private unless the situation is appropriate. If many people are praying and speaking in tongues as a group session for priasing God, that is fine, But be careful not to blurt out in public randomly and repeatedly because it may cause a distraction for others on thier journey.  

“If any speak in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn, and let someone interpret. But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.” 1 Corinthians 14:27-28

If there is any question remaining about wheather speaking in togues is appropriate, and whether it is appropriate for groups to actively discourage or even forbid it, scripture is very clear:

“So, my brothers,… do not forbid speaking in tongues.”1 Corinthians 14:39

How:

John 7 provides the essence of the process to receive the Holy Spirit.

“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart (Belly) will flow rivers of living water.’ But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”  John 7:37-39

It involves 4 primary steps.

Be Thirsty – Want what Jesus has to offer
Come to Jesus – He is the only Baptizer in The Holy Spirit
Drink – Open your mouth, take a breath, and drink in the living water from Jesus
Release the Outflow – Breath out, relese the living water from your belly,  and yield your tongue and lips

There are a couple of prerequisits to this process:  We must be born again, and we must remove any spiritual barriers we may have accunulated during life in the fallen world such as unforgivenes and entanglemets with the occult.

The key process steps and the scripture references for each are laid out below:

Confirm you are Born Again/Accept Jesus As Savior                 – Romans 9:10

    • Confess Belief in Jesus as Son of God                              – John 3:16, Matthew 3:17
    • Acknowledge His Work for you on the Cross                    – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
    • Accept His Forgiveness                                                         – 1 John 1:9, Psalm 103:12, Jeremiah 31:34
    • Acknowledge your new identity as a Child of God             – John 1:12, Galatians 3:26

Remove Barriers

    • Forgive others, as Jesus has forgiven you.                       – Luke 6:37, Matthew 6:14-15
    • Lay down all unforgiveness.                                                – Ephesians 4:31
    • Cut all ties with the occult.                                                  – Deuteronomy 18:9-14, Galatians 5:19-21

Recieve the Holy Spirit

    • Come to Jesus as baptizer in the Holy Spirit.                    – Luke 3:16, John 7:37-39
    • Present your body as a temple for your spirit.                   – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
    • Yield your tongue to worship in a new language.              – Acts 2:1-4, 1 Corinthians 14:2, Mark 16:17
    • Ask For the Holy Spirit In Jesus Name                                – Luke 11:13, John 14:26
    • Believe you have received, and Thank Him                         – Mark 11:24, Matthew 21:22

Breath in the Holy Spirit: “Drink” Jesus’ living water                    – John 4:14, John 7:37

Demonstrate Outpouring: Give Your Spirit Its Voice                    – John 7:38-39, Acts 2:4 

Prayer for executing the inflow and outpouring

Recite this prayer from your heart to qualify yourself for receiving the Holy Spirit. When done with the prayer just breath in the Holy Spirit, and then exhale and give voice to your spirit. 

Lord Jesus Christ, I believe that you are the Son of God.  I believe that you suffered and died on the cross for my sins. I believe you defeated death and rose again from the dead. Your are now alive in heaven at the right hand of the Father, and your innocent blood forgives all who call on your name. I trust you for forgiveness and for cleansing.

I believe you have received me as a Child of God, and because you have received me, I receive myself as a Child of God.

If there is any resentment remaining in my heart now, any unforgiveness against anyone, I lay it down. I forgive every other person as I would have God forgive me.

If I have ever been involved in the occult, I acknowledge that involvement as a sin. I ask for your forgiveness and I loose myself now from every contract with satin and occult power in the name of Jesus.

And now Lord Jesus, I am thirsty. I want to be equiped for all the good works you have prepared for me. I want to have the Holy Spirit dwell in me, to teach me and guide me, to empower me to overcome this fallen world. I want the spiritual gifts so i can serve you and contiue your work. I come to you as my baptizer in the Holy Spirit. I present to you my body to be a temple for your spirit. I yield to you my tongue to be an instrument of righteousness, to worship you in a new language.

By faith I receive this now, and I thank you for it in the name of Jesus, Amen.

>Now – Drink the living water flowing from Jesus: Inhale, breath in the Holy Spirit

>Then – Demonstrate the Outpouring: Exhale, move your tongue and lips, give voice to your spirit

Reference:

Derek Prince

Full Teaching:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ldJNZ1HGWc

Section on How To Receive: (T=32:52) https://youtu.be/2ldJNZ1HGWc?t=1972

 

Placeholder – a work in progress

 

Change your pictures

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Change the pictures in your mind, You will change your life!

The pictures in your mind are powerful.

The pictures you hold in you mind have a profound affect on how you live your life. They affect how you see reality, and they affect how you react to circumstances in life.  They form the basis for the basic beliefs you hold in your heart and they play a large role in determining your behaviors: They affect what you believe is possible (The world is flat, you could fall off the edge); They affect what behaviors you believe are appropriate in any given situation (There is no God and no heaven or hell, do anything you want in this life). You will never attempt something you do not think is possible (airplanes are heavier than air so they will never fly), and you will never choose to do something until you believe it is appropriate in a given situation (Once we understood Germs, medical staff started washing hands between patients).

Holding the proper pictures in your mind is critical to your success. The proper pictures can help you deal effectively in new situations.  Ex:  Looks like a bear, it is a bear, I’m at risk so run away.

There are actually two families of pictures that are important:  The first is your understanding who you are, and the second is your understanding of your external reality.  If either picture is incorrect, it will eventually cause problems.

If you see yourself as more capable than you really are, you will not properly assess a real threat and will likely suffer a consequence.  Ex: Yes that is a bear, but I am big and strong so i will stand my ground and fight it.  Or, Yes life has challenges but i am strong and can deal with them by myself, I do not need some God character to help me. 

If you understate yourself in your mind, you will miss huge opportunities in life. Ex: I am just a victim of society, I could never accomplish anything useful, it is not even worth trying. Or, I am just a lowly sinner, my past will always haunt me, I will get what I deserve, I am not worthy of anything better.

The same goes for our pictures of the outside world. If we see the world as dreadful, threatful and risky it will cause us to operate out of fear and behave in a very hesitant and defensive way with a short term focus. If we see the world as exciting and ripe with opportunities and the promise of a bright future, we will be more open, enthusiastic and hopeful.

The pictures in our mind are built by our past experiences, a combination of what we have been taught and what we have experienced up to that point in life. If we are taught the truth in a robust way, we will have a sound picture to guide us.  If we never got formal instruction or the instruction was incorrect, our mental picture will be flawed. 

The only way to change the picture in your mind is to bring new information to the table; Information to help you improve the picture.  I better picture could help you discover that something new and different is actually possible, or it could help you see that doing something different is appropriate in a situation.

When it comes to spiritual things, i have come to appreciate that most folks have some serious flaws in the picture in their mind. Some of these flaws are absorbed from our emersion in a secular oriented society, Other flaws are conveyed from man made religious doctrines which have been introduced over the years. The good news is that the truth is available in black and white, and the Lord will reveal it to you if you ask with an open heart.

I find it helpful to explore the actual pictures people hold to help them accelerate the process of discovering the truth and tuning up their pictures. Once we get a handle on the pictures you currently hold in your mind, you can start to ask questions and He will help you see the opportunities to tune them up. If we can build an improved picture in your mind, you will quickly change your life.  

Your current pictures:

Let’s look at the current pictures you hold with regards to your engagement in spiritual reality:

Are you a lowly sinner struggling to survive in this fallen world, begging a distant God to have mercy and to flow blessings to you, hoping He is listening and wondering if it is His will to act?

—-or—-

Are you a born again child of God; Repentant and Forgiven, Saved by faith 

– Crucified in the flesh, setting aside self-consciousness and selfish agendas, fully yielded to the Lord.

– Living in His love; Knowing He loves you because He sent His son

– Flowing His love; Forgiving others as He forgave you. Loving others as you love yourself, Seeing all others as children of God struggling in a fallen world.

– Holy and beyond reproach through Jesus blood; At peace with Him, in perfect union, Entitled to the promises and inheritance of the saints.

– In personal communion with Abba Father, Drawn close to Him so He draws close to you, 

– Led by the Spirit into the mind of Christ; listening to His voice, asking for understanding, seeing from His perspective, following where He leads you.

– Acting as the body of Christ with Christ formed in you, perfecting His love as it flows through you as you live your life.

– Partnered with Him to rule this world; seated with Him in heavenly places. Committed to continue His work and make the devil His footstool.

-Using the authority He gives you to do the works He did, speaking His will into place on earth as it already is in Heaven,

-Shining as a bright light in the darkness, being a beacon for the kingdom.

Your perspective makes all the difference. Modern man-made religious doctrine can severely limit you and your journey. Ask the lord to illuminate His path for you. Let the spirit lead you into all truth. Let the truth release your potential and transform your life. The fruit will bear witness.

Piece by piece

The following section works through parts of the contrasting pictures aspect by aspect, piece by piece. First how you see your self, then how you see the purpose of your life, then how you connect to God, then how you engage and face challenges in your life.

Who God is

There is no God, The universe and all we see came from nothing VS God created the universe and all that there is with order, structure and purpose

There is no God, How could a loving God allow all the suffering we see VS God gives us free will, We suffer the consequences we created over generations, He sent Jesus to rescue us.

God is distant, He is up in heaven VS He is with us, In us, Operating through us

Who you are / Your identify

I am a good person because of how I live my life VS I am made righteous only through Jesus blood

I am a sinner, not worthy, and must suffer the consequences VS I have repented, I am forgiven, I am saved, I am made whole 

I am separated from the Father by my sin and must suffer VS I am reconciled to the Father by Jesus work, The Father sees me as Holy through Jesus blood, I am entitled to promises and blessings.

I am a sinner by nature  VS I am Born Again; My spirit is brand new and connected to the Holy Spirit, My mind is being transformed to understand and execute His will, and my body is submitted and complying 

I will always struggle with sin VS  The Holy Spirit helps me recognize my sins, I listen and repent,  and then He helps me to overcome them.

The problems of my past hold me back VS I am free from my past and focused on moving forward

God is either mad at me or He doesn’t care about me VS I am a Child of God, God loves me, God has plans for me, God is working to help me achieve them

Your purpose

My job is to get myself into heaven someday VS My job is to bring Heaven to others while I am here

I am working to find and fulfil MY purpose VS I am focused on His purpose for me

Life is long, it must be tolerated and endured VS Life is a very short time to make a difference, and every moment must be cherished and leveraged.

I am doing religious things so God will think favorably and I can get into heaven someday VS I am transforming myself so He can use me to bring Heaven to earth for others around me here and now.

i am adopting Christian values where convenient VS I have yielded myself to Christ, It Is Him living through me

I try to comply with the commandments as i try to fit in to society in this fallen world VS I separate myself from this fallen world, I am in the world but not of it, I present myself as a vessel worthy of the holy spirit, I repent when the Holy Spirit convicts me of sin, The Holy Spirit helps me transform and overcome Sin by renewing my mind, I never let sin against me become sin in me.

Life is a drag, I am just trying to survive VS Life is a gift, and I make the best of every second and shine as a light in the darkness 

I am watching on the sidelines VS I am engaged executing His commission for the kingdom

I am hiding privately in isolation VS I am shining as a bright light, a beacon in the darkness

Knowing God / Your relationship

God is distant / way up in heaven  VS God is with me, Working in me, Working through me

God is abstract and unknowable VS I have an intimate personal relationship with Him

I talk to God and hope He listens VS I have an ongoing dialog: I talk to God, I listen to His voice

God is a mystery VS The mystery is revealed through the Son and the Holy Spirit

I believe what others tell me about scripture VS I learn the Truth from the Holy Spirit 

I am Led by the flesh and my reasoning VS I am Led by the Holy Spirit

Your authority

I pray to God way up in heaven VS I am seated in heavenly places with Jesus

I am a victim of the devil VS I execute authority over the devil, nothing will harm me

I beg God to take action VS He already took the action, I am now receiving it. I am speaking His will into place on earth.

Only certain people can initiate miracles VS The works Jesus did I do and more

Signs and wonders are no longer relevant VS I am a believer, and these signs shall follow those who believe (Cast out demons, Lay hands on the sick and they shall recover)

I pray once and hope He heard me VS I pray fervently, Speaking His will into place on earth until it is complete.

Scriptures to help you draw improved pictures:

Your identity:

Once we have Faith in Jesus, We are born again, washed and renewed, regenerated as a gracious gift of mercy.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“Having been born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever.” (1 Peter 1:23)

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.” (Titus 3:5)

“Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’ (John 3:3)

You are loved, Know God loves you because He sent His son,  Love God because He loved us first.

“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

“We love Him because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

“Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.  And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.” (1 John 4:14-16)

“‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37)

You are God’s handy work, chosen, beloved, blessed

“But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)

“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit…” (John 15:16)

“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved…” (Colossians 3:12)

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.” (Romans 8:28-30)

Knowing God / Your Relationship:

Get to know God personally, and follow His commandments. it is the only way to eternal life and heaven

“And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” (John 17:3)

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven (follow His commandments). Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’  And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ “(Matthew 7:21-23)

Ask the Holy Spirit to come into you to guide you and teach you

“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” (Luke 11:13)

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” (John 14:26)

The Holy Spirit will help you overcome sin if you let Him.

“I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.” (Ezekiel 36:27)

Live a life worthy of the price He paid, Be a vessel worthy of His presence, Able to be useful for the kingdom

“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

“God paid a high price for you, so don’t be enslaved by the world.” (1 Corinthians 7:23 NLT)

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed…” (2 Timothy 2:15)

“But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.” ( 2Timothy 2:20)

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)

He will manifest in you as you get to know Him and follow His commandment

“If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—  the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. (John 14:15-17)

“At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:20-21)

The Holy Spirit gives us access to the mind of Christ:

“These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. For ‘who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him?’ But we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:13-16)

We are the body of Christ:

“Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.” (1 Corinthians 12:27)

We are to be led by the spirit, not the flesh or our own reasoning

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)

Your purpose:

Your job is to leave a legacy that brings glory to God.

“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” (John 15:16)

Become Love like Him, Love others as you love yourself, Forgive others as He forgives you

“Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5)

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” (1 John 4:7)

“Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.” (1 John 4:17)

“…You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Get over yourself and let Christ live in you and through you:

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

“To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)

We need to yield ourselves and our self-centered interests, and focus on Christ’s purpose for us

“He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:39)

Your purpose is to transform and pursue the kingdom of God, shine as a bright light, bear fruit in this life, and leave a lasting legacy which brings glory to His name

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

“…do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)

Your authority:

When you embrace Jesus as lord of the universe, and receive Him as your Lord of your life, You become a Child of God.

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the [a]right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12)

We have been raised up and are sitting (ruling) with Christ:

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7)

We have all authority and power over the enemy:

“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19)

He expects us to use that authority to bring glory to His name:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” (John 14:12)

“And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (Mark 16:17-18)

“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:14-16)

“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.” (John 15:7-8)

We must speak God’s will into place:

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

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.  Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months.  And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.” (James 5:17)

Always test what you know and what you are being taught. Know correct teaching by its fruit:

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” (Matthew 7:15-20)

Conclusion:

Explore the pictures you hold in your mind.  Ask yourself is they are right.  The Lord will help you improve your pictures if you let Him. 

Happy to discuss your current pictures and help you build better ones. 

Have a wonderful day.

 

Who are you? Who, Who?.. Who Who?

Posted on by jakirkgasser10439

Who are you?  Who,Who?.. Who, Who?

 

Who are you?

There are some deep questions in life worth pondering. One of the most important questions is “Who are you?”. How you answer that question profoundly affects both how you choose to live your life, and it how and where you will spend eternity.

What defines who you are?

If someone walked up to you right now and asked “Who are you?”  how would you answer? The short answer comes quickly.  ex: Hi I’m John, I’m a retired Aeospace engineer based in Florida and we are traveling in this RV during summers. The deeper answer is more complicated and is more revealing.

Most people build a story line in their head using elements from a historic timeline? Who are your parents? Where did they come from? What was your childhood like? Where did you live? What was your family like? Was there a lot of love? Where did you go to school?  What did you do well at? What were your struggles? How do you spend your time? What do you enjoy doing? How do you make money? How do you choose to spend your money?  What kind of relationships do you have? What did you inherit from your parents? What will you give to your kids?

Along with this historical timeline, they also build a self-image based on how they believe others view them:  Pretty/Handsome or plain/homely, Smart or dumb, Fit or fat, Coordinated or awkward, Hardworking or lazy, Capable or useless, Successful or unsuccessful, Worthy or worthless, Victor or Victim.

This story line of “who you are” shapes your outlook on life and has a great influence on how you approach things.  If you view yourself as worthless or a victim, it will be unlikely you will ever recognize an opportunity in front of you, take the initiative to pursue it,  and rise above whatever obstacle you are currently facing.

So far, we have focused on the physical and mental aspects of your story line, lets add the spiritual.  How do you view your spiritual self? Do you accept there is a higher authority? What will happen when you die? Do you have a soul that might live on if you say or do the right things?  Will your life be judged? How will you make out with that? Where will you spend eternity? Given that. .how should I spend my remaining time in this life? 

How you view yourself spiritually has a great influence on how you live your life and what choices you make.  Just recognizing a couple of spiritual aspects could shift the behavior of an entire society: 1) God is everywhere and knows everything, and 2) You will pay the price in judgement for whatever you say or do in this life.  That is the threat/punitive side,  but there is also the promise/incentive side: God is love, He loves you, He wants you to prosper, and He will help you if you let Him.

You must invest some time and energy if you want to develop the spiritual aspects of life as they cannot be discerned through observation in the world. Spiritual laws are counter intuitive, they work the opposite of physical laws.  The physical world teaches you to take to get ahead, the spirit world teaches you to give;  the physical world teaches you live until you die, the spirit world teaches you to die so you can live.

You are composed of mind, body and spirit. If you define yourself only in physical / earthly terms,  I  encourage you to spend some time on the spiritual side, it will change the course of your life, now and for eternity.

If you already include a spiritual aspect in your self-image, I encourage you to explore the following extension or evolution:   

  • God loves you unconditionally
    • “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
  • When you invite Him as your lord and savior, You are born again.
    • “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
  • You are now a child of God, HE is your father.
    • “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12)
  • Everything from your past is wiped away, you are free from it.
    • “We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.” (Romans 6:6)
  • He helps you transform, from being self-centered to becoming love in action like him.
    • “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…”(Romans 12:3)
    • “To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)
    • “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.” (Philippians 2:3)
  • You are part of the body of Christ…He is the Head, You are his “arms and legs”.
    • “Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.”(1 Corinthians 12:27)
  • He wants you to: be like him, Think like Him, and Act like him
    • “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
    • “For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.” (Romans 8:29)
    • The Holy Spirit is in us and teaches us ” ..we have the mind of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 2:16)
  • He wants you to continue His work
    • “Jesus said… As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” (John 20:21)
    • “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father. (John 14-12)

Why is this important? Why should you care? It is all about perspective, and faith.  If you view yourself as anything less than a child of God, striving to be Christ-like in thought and actions, forgiven of sins, and standing righteous In front of the father,  you will be vulnerable to attack in this world.  The things people say about you will matter more than God’s love for you, The things that happen day to day will matter more than your purpose for being on this earth…to become love in action.    

In a prior blog post i described the power of positive confirmtion, where you turn your understanding and beliefs into a positive statement of declaration. It is a very effective approavh to building confidence and growing your faith into actions. 

So if you have a spiritual identity and believe the scriptual statements above, consider the following answer to the question of who you are – it can be powerful and liberating

  • I am a born-again son of God,
  • I am not be defined by things of this earth,
  • I am defined by my creator, my heavenly father, who loves me deeply.
  • He loves me so much he sent His son to Die for me.
  • He created me for a reason, and He has never given up on me
  • He forgives my past so I can focus on going forward
  • I have the Holy Spirit inside me, guiding me, and helping me transform
  • I am a member of the body of Christ – his arms and legs on this earth
  • As the Father sent Him, He sends Me, I will do His work.
  • My father is pure love, I feel His love in me
  • I am His love in action, His love flows through me into every situation.
  • I view others as He views them – as his children needing love
  • My inheritance is the kingdom of God and I am proud member

My favorite speaker on this topic is Dan Mohler.  Here is a video where he explores the topic of Your Identity

I hope you find this discussion helpful. Leave me a comment.

 

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