Intentionally Created

Haley, Cindy and John's daughter, shared this observation from her weekend. It ties in with what Luke talked about on Sunday night--that the Lord really intentionally created us, that He has unique plans for each of us, and furthermore, that He takes care of us.

_______

The neatest thing happened while we watched Lottie (their Labrador Retriever) retrieve this weekend. First, know that Lottie was bred to retrieve- when she works, it’s with the work ethic that I think God created in humans, without the stress we work with (that came along when Adam and Eve sinned). Lottie LOVES retrieving. She is focused and determined and ready for action… so much that Bryan has to remind her to stay put.

When she went to retrieve one of her last birds, she had to put her head under to get a duck that was trying to swim away. She got it and looked up proudly at Bryan . Then the duck managed to get free and fell back in the water. Often ducks, when they are wounded, will take themselves to the bottom of the water and hold onto a reed and die there, instead of giving themselves up. This is what we thought was so cool- instead of staring down in the water and whining at the duck that got away, Bryan said she looked at him with eyes that said- “Dad- what next?”

We realized how sweet that is- to look at our father asking him always “ Dad, what next?” Because there is ALWAYS a plan. He knows- and Lottie knew this. She trusts that she can do her job the best by listening to his commands. The time she spends in training and with her master is directly correlated with the trust that she has in him to provide directions ( and for them to be right).

I want to do that- look at my Dad with eyes that say “what next?”

(to end the story, the duck was long gone & there wasn’t anything to do besides go on looking for the next duck that was floating in the pond. The neatest thing was how Lottie was so proud of her pile of ducks! She gets fulfillment and enjoyment from obeying the commands of her master- and a security of when things go wrong, Dad knows what to do.)

Prayer Summary, Wednesday November 17

On Wednesday night John led a discussion on 1 Corinthians 2--that we have the mind of Christ.

It is INCREDIBLE that we have access to the thoughts of God through the Holy Spirit. We can and already do have the MIND OF CHRIST dwelling in us.

John asked, what does it look like to have that? What does it look like to walk and live out the realities of 1 Corinthians 2?

Some things that were said was that having the mind of Christ comes with having a close and intimate relationship with Him, and that as our minds are transformed more like His we bring more of the Kingdom of Heaven to earth.

What do you think?

After we finished talking about this passage we prayed for those who were on our hearts, and for each other.

You are ALWAYS welcome to come to any prayer night...it is a sweet time of fellowship, worship, prayer, and encouragement.

What is "church"? Part II

The Church Is Not:
1. An organization made up of programs, systems, and methods dedicated to attracting monies and members to itself.
2. Buildings and offices, departments and positions, manipulated by hierarchies given to earthly display and self-aggrandizement for the purpose of being better accepted within chosen social spheres.
3. Another worldly institution dedicated to applying a balm of humanistic principles and solutions to man's personal and social ills.

The Church Is:
A family, a family much like the one described by Edith Schaeffer many years ago:
1. Family is the place where we no longer need to pretend that we are anything other than what we really are.
2. Where acceptance of each other is not based upon levels of performance.
3. Where we don't have to be afraid that our relationships will be broken.
4. Where our material possession are spontaneously shared.
5. Where our unique callings in life can be sought out and called forth with another's help.
6. Where each member's celebration or pain is felt by all.
7. Where we are free enough to admit we are needy, asking for help and expecting to receive it.
8. Where we are freed from the horrible burden of seeing life as a demand, as oughtness, as duty, instead as a gift, a feast, and a banquet.

And, periodically these families (microcosm) gets together with other families (macrocosm), as a family of families, maybe in a larger building, a tent, a warehouse, a gymnasium, wherever they can gather in a certain geographical sphere or given locale to celebrate like a family reunion encouraging one another at a larger scale and collectively worshiping God. But all of its strength, all its vitality comes not from the numerics of the gathering but rather from the family dynamics of the gathering.

Welcome to the Family,

John Gaultney

Courtesy of Third Day Churches

What is "church" ? Part I

The Church: Team Or Family?
What you call the church determines how you will relate to it. Some of the newer terms we have used to market the local church, and even solicit involvement and participation are the use of the common term "team." It gets printed on t-shirts, banner and baseball camps, whatever necessary to both foster morale and to esteem cooperation, it seems a "team" spirit works thematically for a missions project, an evangelistic endeavor or even an annual call to practical service.

But when we begin to call ourselves a team and not a family, too much shifts, and often too much is lost. A team is a group of people banded together for the express purpose of achievement, winning a game, accomplishing a goal, or completing a project. The Chargers are a team, so are the marines, and United Airlines. A team usually has a coach, an owner, and of course players, all trained to accomplish a task.

If the right guard keeps missing blocks, the coach is obligated to the owner and the other team members to bench him and even eventually replace or trade him. Sometimes when churches operate as teams, the leader (lead pastor) acts as a captain or a coach, sets up goals, and then initiates the action to achieve those goals. If someone gets in the way, misses a catch, sprains an ankle or is just plain too slow, he gets let go, dismissed from his charge, is asked to leave the game and is dropped from the team.

However, if the right guard is married to the coach's daughter, or is the son of the owner, that becomes a different subject. Now the team is a mixture of team and family and families operate on a different level.

Whereas teams are committed to achieving goals and winning games, families are committed to each other. In fact, the goal sometimes may be no more than simply sticking together. Staying committed, as a family, staying together particularly when things are not running smoothly means everyone at all times gets to play, because participating is more important than winning, and in family it is more important for the overall morale of the family that everyone makes it. Becoming someone in the family is more important than accomplishing something, even if that accomplishment is letting the opponent score and second goal when you turn the other cheek.

Churches, who set themselves up as teams, or even institutions, are missing the purposes of God. Churches are not teams committed to a common goal, even if that goal is as lofty as winning souls or sending missionaries. Churches are families, whose basic commitment to each other in order to accomplish anything. A son has a right to leave home, but a father does not have the right to fire him from his Sonship drive him away. The coach may bench an ineffective player, but in family when the game is over, we still eat at the same table. We are family first...team second.
Courtesy of Third Day Churches..

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting, 11/10

Last Wednesday night we joined in the 24/7 season of prayer that was going on at Tribe Issachar (who had partnered with Redeemed ministries in this week of prayer). This season of prayer was focused on praying for the inbreaking of the Lord's justice.

ONE day after the season of prayer started it was published that a major crackdown on child-trafficking had happened:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/11/08/national/main7034513.shtml

Life is a Treasure Hunt!

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, 11/3

Matthew 5:3

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

BLESSED are the POOR in spirit...what is it to be poor? It is to be needy, to be desperate, to be hungry for something more. How consistently are we desperate for more of the Holy Spirit, or needy of time with Him? There is NO shame in admitting that you haven't been that way, or are only desperate for him when things are hard. The Lord really wants us, and wants us to want Him more-ALL the time! We have this sweet promise to stand on--that we are BLESSED when we are poor in spirit, and we RECEIVE the KINGDOM of heaven as we are desperate for Him. Go for it! He is worthy!

Listen to Iain's Sermons from Scotland!

Uploaded sermons from Dunfermline Link (in Scotland) can be listen to here in America! These can be accessed at sermon.net/linkchurch.

There are a few different ways to access the sermons:

• To just play a sermon, click on the sermon on the right hand side, then click the play button on the left hand side.
• To download the sermon as an MP3, click on "Sermon Player" near the top right, click on the sermon, then click on "MP3".
• To subscribe to the sermons as a podcast in iTunes, click on the icon just underneath "Sermon Player", then click on the icon to the left of "Audio". The URL to use for other podcast systems is http://sermon.net/rss/client/linkchurch/type/audio

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, 10/27

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary

We started the evening reading from 2 Chronicles 6:14-42, and 7:1-4. In verses 6:-14-42 Solomon is crying out to the Lord, and in 7:1-4 the Lord answers him. It was such a reminder that the Lord is FAITHFUL to hear our prayers and to come and dwell with us. We spent a lot of time talking about intimacy--everything begins and ends in it. What we do, our relationship with the Lord, our relationships with others...it must begin-from, and flow from intimacy. Jesus, when He came to earth showed us how to be perfectly intimate with the Father. It takes time, and commitment to be intimate with Him. Fortunately, he is GOOD. We have to picture Him as who He is--not someone who will burn us, abandon us, or grow weary of us. He is FOR you. He cannot forsake or leave you. And He is eager to be in relationship with you.

If we say "intimate" too often it can become a buzz-word that we don't understand. John asked us to define in one word what intimacy is. Just one--not a phrase, not a definition, one word. Some words people gave were--TIME. LOVE. KNOWING. THEIR. PRESENT. TRUST. EXCITING. ADVENTURE.

What word would you use?

Women's Conference Image Recap

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, October 13

Wednesday, October 13 Wednesday Night Prayer Summary

Therefore,

if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above,

where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

Colossians 3:1

And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony,

and they did not love their life even when faced with death. Revelation 12:11

We have been raised up with Jesus. When we are hit with distractions, attacks, discouragement, or anything to that effect, it is ESSENTIAL that we turn our focus onto the Lord. Simply put, we have to turn our thoughts and our attention to Him.

Our focus needs to be on who He is and what He has done (our testimony). Do not focus on what hasn't happened yet. Remember Jesus' faithfulness and what He has done. He is unchanging. He will ALWAYS be for you, be faithful, never leave you, and love you.

After sharing the above, the group spent time in prayer for one another. John & Cindy confidently stood on their testimonies that they have of the Lord providing for them to pray boldly for provision for others.

Remember, you are always MORE than welcome to come, fellowship, and pray! Penny's at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays.

What Kelli sang tonight,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-UDWk6e_aE

John G. Elliott Devotional, 10/10/10

A Resting Place for God, John G. Elliott

“Arise, O Lord, and come to Your resting place. . .” (Psalm 132:8)

God rests. An amazing thing to consider. He rested on the seventh day after six days of creative activity. How delightful and deeply satisfying that first Sabbath must have been for Him. The world was beautiful. Every detail was completed in perfection. The man He created was in complete harmony with Himself. Their dialog that day was manifestly meaningful and full of purpose. No sin had tarnished the man or the paradise. With a great sigh of satisfaction the whole endeavor was announced very good.

Adam was created not only with a soul (a mind, volitional ability and emotion) but also with a significant dimension which distinguished him from all the animals: Adam had a spirit. This innermost component was literally God’s dwelling place. It is accurate to say that the human spirit was always intended to be His resting place- - -the place of divine convergence and habitation.

At the moment of sin this spirit was snuffed out in the garden- - -the greatest tragedy in all human history. “In the day you eat of it. . .you shall surely die” (Genesis 2:17). The death occurred instantly---the spirit died. The body began the death process of decay which would take some time before returning to the elements. The soul, being indestructible, lived on but was subject to moral erosion due to the loss of its most vital organ: the spirit, where God had formerly dwelt in unadulterated nearness.

Mankind languished as a result. Most humans, from the beginning until the present, have never understood what was lost. Consequently, should it surprise us that so few have little appreciation or attention directed toward what can be saved!

The new birth is the lighting of the internal human candle that had been snuffed out. To be born again is a radical reality. With proper care, the person thus saved can foster that candle into a blazing torch of spiritual power. Such an atmosphere is a delightful resting place for the Almighty Whose very throne room is cascaded in brilliant color and unapproachable light (see Revelation 4 & 5 and I Timothy 6:16).

Our present natural body is of the old order of things but has the potential of housing the most glorious of eternal things- - -a whole new order of life- - -eternal life.

Psalm 132 described the physical realities of the ark and temple built on a plot of real estate in Jerusalem. The Holy of Holies within the temple precincts was a picture of His ultimate resting place- - -a snapshot - - -a shadow of a greater reality which was the throne room within you; the temple of the Holy Spirit; all in good time elegantly restored (saved).

Devotional from Francis Frangipane

Love Me Where You're At
by Francis Frangipane

I have discovered that, as we seek the Lord, our most difficult periods can be transformed into wonderful breakthroughs into God's love. For me, one such season occurred during the years 1979 to1981. The association of churches with which I was aligned had fallen under spiritual deception. Not only were its core doctrines increasingly seeded with New Age influences, but immorality crept in, and key leaders began leaving their wives for other women. I could no longer remain silent. As a result, in 1979 I left my congregation in Detroit, Michigan, where I had served as pastor, and traveled to the organization's regional headquarters in Iowa. I came to plead for repentance. However, after meeting with the senior leaders, I was asked to leave the group.

So here we were – we had left our church, we had no money, and we had four little children; we couldn't even afford basic housing. Desperate for anything, we finally found an old farmhouse in rural Washington, Iowa. The home was over a hundred years old, but it actually looked much older. After negotiating with the landlord, we were given a year of free rent provided I did basic repairs to the house, such as cleaning and painting.

Even so, the house needed more than I could provide. The furnace did not work well, so we installed a wood burner stove in the kitchen. That first winter, it turned out, was one of the coldest in Iowa's history. Frost formed on the inside walls, spreading a foot or two around each window; wind chills dropped to 60 below, and even colder on several occasions.

To keep warm each night, the whole family cuddled tightly on one large mattress on the dining room floor, about 18 feet from the wood burner in the kitchen. A fan behind the stove nudged warm air in our direction. My nightly project, of course, was to build enough heat in the stove to keep us warm until morning.

While I worked the fire, I also would pray and seek God. The wood burner became a kind of altar to me, for each night as I prayed, I offered to God my unfulfilled dreams and the pain of my spiritual isolation. Yes, I knew the Lord was aware of our situation. Though we had virtually nothing, He showed Himself to us in dozens of little ways. I just didn't know what He wanted of me.

As the seasons came and went, another child was born, and then we fostered a young girl from Vietnam, giving us six children. Still, as the family grew, the little area around the wood burner became a hallowed place to me. Even in the summer, I would sit on the chair next to the stove and pray and worship.

I would like to say I found the joy of the Lord during this time, but in truth, though I gradually adjusted to my situation, I felt an abiding misery in my soul. Our deep poverty was an issue (I barely made $6,000 a year), but more than that, I felt like I had missed the Lord. My continual prayer was, "Lord, what do You want of me?"

Three years of seeking God passed, and I still carried an emptiness inside. What was God's will for me? I had started a couple Bible studies and spoken a few times in churches, but I so identified with being a pastor that, until I was engaged again in full-time ministry, I feared I had lost touch with God's call on my life.

In spite of this inner emptiness concerning ministry, I actually was growing spiritually, especially in areas that were previously untilled. I went through the Gospels, hungry to study and obey the words of Christ. Previously, I had unconsciously defined a successful ministry as something born of my performance. During this time, however, the Lord reduced me to simply being a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Indeed, a number of things I thought were biblical I discovered were really just religious traditions. The Lord desired that I take inventory of my heart and examine those few truths for which I would be willing to die. He said the truths for which I would die, for these I should live.

Frankly, things like the timing of the rapture or nuances about worship style or spiritual gifts dropped in their priority, though I still considered them important. Rising to the top of my focus was a passion to be a true follower of Jesus Christ – to obey His teachings and approach life not merely as a critic but more as an encourager. I also found myself increasingly free to enjoy and learn from Christians from other streams and perspectives.

Yet, these changes, though deep and lasting, occurred slowly, almost imperceptibly. They were happening quietly in my heart, and only in hindsight did I see what the Lord had done. Throughout this time, I was preoccupied with feelings of detachment from God's will. My prayer to know the Lord's plan for me continued daily.

The Breakthrough
One day, as I stood in the kitchen pantry, I repeated again my abiding prayer: "Lord, what do You want of me?" In a sudden flash of illumination, the Lord answered. Speaking directly to my heart, He said, "Love Me where you're at."

In this time and season, remember, I was not a pastor or minister. I was a television repairman doing odd jobs on the side to provide for my family. I hated what I was doing. In my previous church I taught against TV and now I was "laying hands" on television sets and raising them from the dead! The Lord's answer cut straight to my heart. I was awed at its simplicity! I asked, "Love You where I am at? Lord, is that all You want of me?" To this He responded, "This is all I will ever require of you."

In that eternal moment peace flooded my soul and I was released from the false expectation of ministry-driven service. God was not looking at what I did for Him, but who I became to Him in love. The issue in His heart was not whether I pastored, but whether I loved Him. To love the Lord in whatever station I found myself – even as a television repairman – this I could do!

A deep and remarkable transformation occurred in me. My identity was no longer in being a pastor but rather in becoming a true lover of God. Having settled my priorities, amazingly, just a couple days later I was invited to pastor a church in Marion, Iowa. In spite of all my previous anxiety about returning to ministry, I did not jump at the opportunity. For I had found what the Lord truly desired of me. Though I eventually accepted this call, my focus was not merely on leading a church but on loving God.

What God Seeks
More than one's ministry, God seeks our love. His great commandment is that we love Him, ultimately, with all our mind, all our heart, and all our soul and strength. If we love Him, we will fulfill all He requires of us (John 14:15). And it is as we love Him that He orchestrates all things to work together for our good (Rom. 8:28).

Beloved, loving God is not hard. We can fulfill any assignment – auto mechanic or housewife, doctor or college student – and still give great pleasure to our heavenly Father. We do not need ministry titles to love the Lord. Indeed, God measures the value of our lives by the depth of our love. This is what He requires of every true God-seeker: to love Him where we are at.

Lord Jesus, the revelation of Your love has swept me off my feet. Lord, You have drawn me and I run after You. Master, even in the mundane things of life, I shall express my love for You. Consume me in Your love.

Sunday venue and time change!

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!

Change of time and venue for Sunday!

The Light is having a Sunday evening service this week at 6:00 p.m., and we feel called to be there and support them that evening.

We will gather at the Gaultney's home at 5:00 p.m. on this Sunday (10/10).

As a group we will caravan to The Light just before 6:00 pm.

Bring food to share while we fellowship together!

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, October 6

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, October 6, 2010

The seventy returned with joy...

Luke 10:17

This evening John led a discussion about what it means to get ready for and sustain revival. A point that was repeated again and again is that we have to get God out of the box--that we cannot put limits on Him. If we truly value his presence and trust that we can prepare us for anything, but yet still hold back, how can we expect to be empowered by Him?

John shared a lot from Luke 10. He highlighted how the 70 were not sent out alone. We can trust that we will not be sent out alone. Jesus told those going out that he would go where they would be. We can trust that He WILL be with us when we go out. We carry His presence, and it won't leave us.

Susan shared a few occasions that she has had to pray for people while out and about. In each of the examples she shared, she did not go in with the expectation of doing ministry or serving another. Rather, she was open to the Lord and His presence, was willing to be made uncomfortable and be pushed out of her comfort zone, and was willing to follow the Lord's guidance.

The Lord's presence will never depart from us. He can, and will prepare us for anything, even that which far exceeds our wildest expectations. We just have to be hungry and willing.

Couponing Class!

Couponing Class by Sarah K. was so fun and informative!

Thanks Sarah!

(Click on the blog to make the image bigger)

John G. Elliott Devotional, 10/2/10

Devotional from John G. Elliott, October 2, 2010

An Oasis

“. . .passing through the valley of Sorrow (Baca), they make it a place of springs” (Psalm 84:6)

Only God has the ability to work all things together for good. But He fashioned us in His image so that we could work some things together for good. The change begins within our own mind. Our perception of any given situation is crucial.

Once I was in the company of several people viewing a house being considered for purchase. I was amazed at the various reactions regarding the condition of the property. The house was over twenty-five years old and was showing signs of wear and tear and its interior reflected a style from two decades prior. One outspoken friend looked it over and said, “Yuck! I could never live in a place like this. Everything is so outdated and dirty and worn out.” Another friend quietly voiced her opinion, “You know, with some new carpet, several gallons of paint and little ‘elbow grease’ this house could be a lovely home for a family.”

One saw nothing but obstacles. The other saw potential. One had eyes that “saw not.” The other person could see the possibility of transformation. Faith sees potential because it pierces the seemingly obvious on into the unseen----the not yet visible realm. Faith and Love work together to view a difficult, stubborn, proud or undesirable person in terms of what they could become. Jesus looked beyond the unstable and impetuous behavior of Simon and saw leadership and stability. He thereafter called him Peter (Rock). Love believes all things.

Is this some kind of manipulation or “mind over matter” game from self-help psychology? No. But it is psychology at its very finest. No one understands the human soul (psyche in Greek) better than God. No one loves you with greater intensity than Him. No one desires for you to reach your full potential more than your Creator. And no one can do inside of you what He does----releasing His Spirit (upon request) to transform the heart or any situation. By His Spirit you can dig a well and find refreshing springs in the midst of the most desolate valley. You can speak “life-giving” words to those around you and further the process of tapping in them the wells of renewal, faith and hope----thus helping to lift them from trying circumstances.

You are a pilgrim. This life is one long valley of Baca (Weeping or Sorrow). But you can transform it, for yourself and others, into a place of springs---an oasis of hope. Jesus called you the “salt of the earth.” You are the divine preservative in a decaying civilization. He called you the “light of the world” in a realm of darkness and deception. Why not accept your role as an oasis in this spiritually deprived desert?

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, September 29

Wednesday, September 29, 2010 Prayer Summary

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Romans 8:15-17

Prayer Requests:

Gloria going to Honduras, HEALING of cancer-Wyatt, Covering over John and Cindy, Mike and Olga

Praise!

Another four churches in Athens are working together

What happened:

Cindy shared three revelations that she received while in Bethel. The three revelations below are ones that she and John believes are Kingdom principles and cultural values for Athens Link Fellowship to embrace and establish in our body.

1. Good.

God is good. He is absolutely GOOD, ALL of the time. He cannot be anything other than good, because he IS good. He is always in a good mood, and in a good mood towards us.

2. Intimacy with His Presence

Intimacy is defined as close familiarity or friendship; closeness. The presence of the Lord and intimacy with Him, is something that we need to court, hold onto, and host. And such an encouragement is that God also WANTS our intimacy with him. He wants us to have a close familiarity with Him.

3. Power of God

The miracles and supernatural gifts from the Lord displays His heart and His power. When the impossible happens, it puts the focus on Him who did it, not on us. In scripture where Jesus referred to works, He was often talking about miracles. He said that we would do greater works...

When we speak of what the Lord has done, when we give our testimony, it is SO powerful. Revelations says that we'll overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. Testimonies establish faith. They set a precedent. There is so much power in our words.

Following Cindy sharing, we spent time in prayer for those needing healing, marriages, and that we'd be bold and courageous.

CHALLENGE

We left challenged to be purposeful this week, and declare whatever is on our heart over Athens...revival, healing, love...whatever' it is, while we're driving, while we're shopping, etcetera, declare it. You're challenged to do the same!

Recommended Reading:

Culture of Honor by Danny Silk

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, 9/22

Verse:
For the body is not one member, but many. 1 Corinthians 12:14

Update:
-Kelli shared that Francie said that the Tribe Issachar season of prayer went really well! She said the Tribe Issachar interns all had on their hearts to pray for more of the love of the Lord and for unity in our city. It was said that this was one of the most encouraging and joyful seasons of prayer. Thanks to EVERYONE who signed up during this time. Don't forget that the prayer room is open during office hours and is a great (non-intimidating) place to go spend some intentional time with the Lord at!

Prayer Requests:
Gloria's mission trip to Honduras
Mike & Olga-Discernment
John & Cindy in California

What happened:
Caren led prayer tonight, and led the group in a discussion about our passions and what we feel called to in Athens.

"What is your calling" can be an intimidating question. However, it is not meant to be that way! Being asked "what is your calling" does not always mean that you're being asked what is your ultimate life calling. Rather, is is good to ponder what is your calling for THIS season, for THIS time. A "subset" of your life calling, if you will. Further removing the intimidation, what you are called to in different seasons of life is often times directly linked to that which you are passionate about, and where you currently are. Often times it is easy to believe that our callings are something that will not be enjoyable and that we have to suffer through--that is simply not true. The Lord wants us to enjoy life, experience it abundantly, and live it authentically. What we enjoy doing, how we love serving, and what we get fired up about to pray for are all indicators of what our calling is, because those things are planted in our hearts by the Lord when He created us.

For example, Caren shared that one of her callings/passions is to pray for cancer. After going through some discouraging seasons, she still chooses to hold to that passion of her heart, and still pursue praying for healing. She is now employed at the American Cancer Society, and believes that she is in that position to continue to contend for healing of cancer. A beautiful example of Caren living out one of her passions (and you can have more than one!).

We are all here in Athens for a reason (the Lord IS really purposeful). And we are all part of this body. The body is not made up of 30 ears or 30 elbows--there are a lot of unique parts in a human body with specific functions; likewise, WE are all unique and have specific purposes in this body in Athens. We all have different talents, giftings, and passions. And that is GOOD. As we live authentically unto ourselves, and don't try to be someone who we are not, we'll be fulfilling our calling in this city. As you learn to be who you are, and live in that, you ARE bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to Athens.

Some good question prompts as you ponder this:
Where am I currently?

Who do I interact with?

What do I enjoy doing?
What am I talented in?
What do I get fired up about praying for?
What direction does my heart get pulled to in Athens?

Devotional from Bill Johnson

The one revelation that is about to change everything is the revelation of Jesus Christ. Paul declared as much when he said that there was something we would come to know by revelation (Ephesians 1:17) that would bring us into the fullness of Christ, saying "until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ." (Ephesians 4:13) Notice that coming into maturity is the result of gaining the knowledge of the Son of God. This revelation will completely change the church as we know it today, because as we see Him we become like Him. This will enable us to accurately re-present Jesus.

Jesus Christ is perfect theology. He is the "exact representation of His nature," (Hebrews 1:3) the ultimate portrayal of the Father. Questions that exist about God's nature in the Old Testament were clarified in the New Testament. When I teach on God's absolute desire and provision to heal, I am asked, "what about Job?? I respond, "I'm not a disciple of Job, I'm a disciple of Jesus." Job's life helped create the awareness for the need of a savior. Job is the question. Jesus is the answer. If our study of Job (and other Old Testament issues) doesn't lead us to Jesus as the answer, it reveals we never really understood the question. The types and symbols of the Old Testament do not override the clear manifestation of God through Jesus in the New Testament. Any understanding we have about the nature of God that can't be seen in the person of Jesus, must be questioned.

(Excerpt from the book, Dreaming With GodChapter 8, Destiny Image Publishers.)

Prayer Summary, Wednesday September 15

Wednesday, September 15 Prayer Summary

But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.

Pray, then, in this way: 'Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be Your name.

Your kingdom come.

Your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.

Matthew 6: 6-10

I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in Heaven.

Matthew 16:18-19

Prayer Requests:
Katherine Arnold Wolf is having surgery on Friday; Encouragement, strength and HEALING over her!
Christina-job
Gloria-mission trip to Honduras!

Testimony!
JR has TWO job interviews in Costa Rica!

What happened:
Tonight at prayer (at the pond!), we thought, discussed, and prayed about what it is to partner with God in the supernatural here on earth, here in Athens. God hungers for our prayers, though we knows what we're going to pray before we pray it. We tend to put so many boundaries around ourselves--that we can't do things, that things can't be redeemed...those are "flat not true" (John's phrase). The Lord asks of us to have an open, willing heart to Him, and He'll do the rest.

For hundreds of years the church as been doing things the church can do without God, and consequently getting glory for itself. When God is the only one who can do it He will get His glory. We just HAVE to be open to how the Lord will work. He wants us to partner with Him, to join with Him. We just have to be open to how the Lord will work.

This song was running through my mind when we were praying tonight,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o17x8KVXj8&feature=related

Lord, YOUR will be done, in us, in Athens, as it is in Heaven.

Please post comments and testimonies!

Season of Prayer at Tribe Issachar!

It is time for a season of prayer at Tribe Issachar!

Hi everybody! We are having a season of prayer next week. Our focus in

prayer is simply that the church in Athens would be established in the

love of Christ. We’re asking that “together with all the saints” we

would know His love and be filled with His fullness like Paul prayed

in Ephesians 3:18-19. This actually advances the Kingdom!

We will be kicking off on Thurs. Sep. 16th at 10 PM with a small

worship and prayer gathering. Anybody is welcome to join us! Then, we

will continue passing the baton of prayer until Sunday Sep. 19th at

midnight.

Also, Saturday will be a home game, but that doesn’t mean we’re going

to stop praying. In fact, we feel that it will be a really strategic

time. Even if you don’t sign up, please feel free to come and join us

in the prayer room throughout the day on Saturday to magnify the Name

of Jesus!

Final details:

- Sign up for time slots and get directions at tribeissachar.com

- Girls, please don’t come alone at night!

- If you could possible doorkeep one of the nights, please contact Francie Scott.

- Enjoy our updated website!

And here are a few pictures from the prayer room...

Sign-up at www.tribeissachar.com !

The Gathering!

Click on an image to make it larger!

Wednesday Night Prayer Summary, September 8

Pursue love, yet desire earnestly spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 1 Corinthians 14:1

Announcements...

• Season of prayer coming up from Tribe Issachar! Stay tuned for more info.
• Prophetic worship conference coming soon!

Prayer Requests:

• HEALTH and REST over Iain and Norma's family in Scotland

Answered Prayer!!!!

Per the latest in Scotland, Jack's impetago was so improved this morning that the doctors thought they might have mis-diagnosed!! Thanks be to God for moving on this little one to heal his body!!!!!!!!!!!

• Julie T.-restoration and health
• Julie's son Michael
• The gathering on Friday--UNITY!
• Revival in our city

What Happened...

Tonight after Kelli shared a prophetic worship song from Psalms 92 & 93, we were blessed to have Iain Allen continue to teach on the prophetic. Iain prepared an incredibly helpful handout which was distributed on Sunday and Wednesday night; if you need a copy contact John to get one. The beginning of this summary are things that Iain covered on Sunday night.

Prophecy is one of the gifts of the Spirit that is listed in 1 Corinthians 12. Simply put, the gift of prophecy is when the Spirit of God moves upon a person with a specific purpose.
We can ALL prophesy. It comes with our inheritance as children of God--we CAN ALL hear our Father's voice.
There is tremendous value in hearing the immediate word of the Lord, in addition to His precious word (the Bible).
Prophecy MUST be tested. One fool-proof test is that ALL prophecy MUST be in line with scripture. If a word is given that does not line up with scripture, then let it go immediately.
But what if I get a word of prophecy wrong? "Don't toss the baby out with the bath-water." or, don't quench the Spirit! The answer to doing something wrong is not to correct it with a wrong or to walk away from it, but rather to do it correctly. Wrong prophecies are usually not given deliberately. It is important to consistently put yourself in the position of waiting to hear from the Lord.
• In sharing words of prophecy, it is vital to be in submission to authority.
Prophecy can be tested by the content of the message (it should be in line with scripture and should be in line with the moving of God in the Fellowship and confirmed by leadership), the person who shares it, and the accuracy of the prophecy.
Prophecy needs to be tested with sincerity, love, and a gracious heart.
IMPORTANT! Today's immature prophet can become tomorrow's mighty man or woman of God. Prophecy, like ANY other gift, is one that you have to learn and grow in. Like any other, mistakes can happen, but you can still grow in it.
A few final words...all personal prophecy is dependent on our obedience to the Lord. God speaks to us differently, and moves through the personality of the individual person. We also receive differently as well. Some hear audibly, some have visions, others have dreams...we're unique. It's good that we're unique. And creator-God speaks to us in the way that we receive. He is so good to us.

After Iain finished sharing we prayed for the afore mentioned prayer topics, and Travis (from the Awakening!) shared a few words that he heard during the evening, including that Jesus is going to be revealed through unity.

PLEASE comment on this post with any testimonies that you'd like to share!

John G. Elliott Devotional

Devotional from John G. Elliott

A Great Vault

“The prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” (NASB) “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” (NIV) (James 5:16)

I have imagined beginning my day positioned in front of a great vault. Its doors are wide open and inside are acres and acres of every imaginable kind of wealth. It is the Bank of Heaven and the currency is Grace. The riches of the glory of God are made available to me in their fullness.

As I observe the auspicious dimensions of this fortune, I am stunned to realize that I have been chosen to administrate these resources. My privileged position allows me to distribute these assets across the extensive panorama of the earth itself. There are no geographic boundaries. There are no sociological or class distinctions. I am able to penetrate the darkest and most repulsive prison cell in a remote village. I freely enter the office and cabinet chambers of the rulers of governments. I am able to wield influence in classrooms and businesses; dives and castles; shacks and mansions; theaters and concert halls.

The implement of such authority: prayer. This vintage instrument of power is perhaps the least appreciated, least accessed and most undervalued tool of influence in the world today. We are told numerous times by the Master Himself of its mountain-moving capability. One of His apostles said it could accomplish much and was powerful and effective. It is the divinely ordained mechanism for dispensing blessing, wisdom, comfort, help, encouragement, provision and a wide range of other advantages.

When I pray in accordance with God’s purposes (I John 5:14) I can touch the suffering, persecuted messenger of the gospel in a dark jungle prison in North Korea with fresh encouragement, comfort, hope and provision AND have every confidence that heaven is gladly executing the fulfillment. I can set the wheels of positive change into motion in a person’s mind and heart that needs the transforming power of the truth. I can frustrate the plans of evil men and even bring confusion into demonic ranks by the faithful exercise of this privilege.

Yes, you and I daily stand at the vault of the Bank of Heaven and have the ability to make regular withdrawals. After all, am I not seated with Christ---the Bank’s CEO--- in His office in the heavenly realms? (See Ephesians 1) Has He not encouraged me to make regular withdrawals and learn to be persistent at it?

This is the only banking institution in the universe that pays healthy dividends upon withdrawals!!! Another amazing feature is that it is a truly equal opportunity lender. Every disciple of the kingdom has full access.

However, it has been duly observed that those who make the most withdrawals appear to be in the highest standing with the Bank and thus place themselves in a position to take advantage of the wider range of the Bank’s services. So what keeps me, at this very moment, from keeping my account active and being a source of blessing?