Daily Devotions

Posts tagged “Bethel

The Lord Will Not Abandon You

holdinggodshandMay hope arise within the hearts of weary ones and may dreams be revived in the lives of discouraged ones, and may they lift their hands and declare on clear voices that our God does not forget His covenant or His mercies to a thousand generations. May the Lord do a redeeming work in you that He may bring forth through your life what He intended from the beginning. May He redeem and restore everything that the enemy has tried to destroy in you.
(Deut.4:31, GW)  “The LORD your God is a merciful God. He will not abandon you, destroy you, or forget the promise to your ancestors that he swore he would keep.” We are praying you discover daily that merciful God has not abandoned you.


 


Preserve a Posterity

We have been taught by pop-theology to use faith for immediate relief, not long-term endurance, not long-term results (Heb.11:13 does not figure into Beautiful Young AdultsEsau’s demands for immediate relief).  The Esau mindset of blowing off the coming generations and spending what you’ve got on relief for the present generation flies well in today’s skies. Joseph did not get immediate results (or relief) after his prophetic dream and prophetic pronouncement. He (and Daniel and Esther) was sent ahead to “preserve a posterity,” “continue a remnant” and “save lives.” (Gen.45:7 Amplified) He stood and stood and took ground “until the Word of the Lord proved him” and he was not proven to guarantee him plenty of airtime and notoriety but for the survival of a nation (Ps.105:18). He was not dealt the luxurious right of faith for immediate relief or escape. But the result was the salvation of a nation and its being propelled into the future of its destiny for Jehovah’s Name’s sake.
(This is the sixth excerpt from Marty Gabler’s article “What is Going On?“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)

 


Hearts, Hands and Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving1As the people of God assemble today, may they lift their voices, their hearts and hands and sing thanksgiving unto the Lord God for all His beneficent blessings toward us. For God is good and greatly to be praised.  “[ A Song of Praise ] Come, let us praise the Lord! Let us sing for joy to God, who protects us! Let us come before him with thanksgiving and sing joyful songs of praise.” (Ps.95:1-2, GNT)


 


God is Unstoppable

Babies cannot defend themselves. Yet, a powerful king could not destroy the baby Jesus. (Matt.2:16). This world system could not touch even one tiny ResurrectionTombbaby Who was the embodiment of the Kingdom of God in this earth (compare Mk.2:12). Rome had conquered the world but it didn’t know what to do with a carpenter from Nazareth (Lk.23:4). Demons opposed Jesus yet He walked about freely demonstrating the Kingdom of God (Lk.11:20). When crucified, they set a guard on His tomb but could not prevent the power of the rule of God over death. The rule and authority of God to finish what He started is unstoppable. We are praying you discover daily that the power of God is finishing what He started in your life.


 


Short Term or Long Term

Short Term or Long Term—As long as there are a people who feel they have their “ticket stamped” to go to a “much better place,” there will be no reform of what they deem to be merely an exit platform. If the departure platform is somewhat rickety, people will just try to stand still and hope the trainpassengerstrain out of there arrives soon. With such a view, no one reforms or rebuilds the platform; they simply grip what is available to grip and hope to be off of it as soon as possible. The emphasis today upon the sudden coming of the Lord isn’t about Him, it is about us. The religious pundits pounding their pulpits exclaiming the quick return of our Lord are getting hearty (and well financed) “Amens!” in response to their promises of sudden escape from recent disappointments and prognostication. With that consideration, the interesting irony is that we literally cheer our Old Testament heroes who stood to the last man for the saving of a God-ordained nation.
(This is the fifth excerpt from Marty Gabler’s article “What is Going On?“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


 


Intense Exertion

In spite of the angle of descent of morals and values, in spite of what the state of the union looks like, we stand on the brink of a destiny that our exertionforefathers never imagined (Jer.33:3)—But it will require moving from being observers to acting, require shifting and transition:  it’s the “violent” action of Matt.11:12 which means “intense exertion.” It is not violent in the sense of doing persons harm but in the sense of putting forth “intense exertion” in opposition to things that oppose God’s purpose. We must oppose darkness like opposing a rattlesnake trying to crawl up in our bed. We must do it for the King of Kings and for a generation. We are praying you discover daily that your intense exertion is gaining ground against darkness. (Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day. www.txpraise.com)


 


What, Where, Why, How, When

What, Where, Why, How, When — What we need more than better politicians is an awakening move of God. Where we need that move of God is in the Church. Why we need that move of God (perhaps it might better be labeled a reforming move of God) is because, having lost sight of our purpose in churchlightraysthe earth, the Church is bemoaning and reacting rather than decreeing and acting. How the move will come is determined by the resistance from those He is attempting to move upon, i.e., the types of circumstances in which they will be willing to hear from God. There are numerous creative circumstances in the Bible that were allowed to develop to awaken purpose in those who eventually became Sunday School story heroes. But then, their goal was not to get to heaven. It was to stop the giants and the systems that dared defy the Lord of Hosts. When God moves, we must be ready to yield to a paradigm that allows His government to reform us before we inadequately try transforming a nation. (1Pe.4:17 “judgment begins in the house of God”) After not preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom (the rule of God, not just a get-out-of-hell-free message; Matt.4:23; 9:35; 24:14) and Kingdom culture for 200 years, we are crying out in our nation for a political figure to legislate morality to produce a culture that doesn’t destroy itself and shed innocent blood. (Matt.5-6 is Kingdom culture)
(This is the fourth excerpt from Marty Gabler’s article “What is Going On?“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


 


God’s Word in You

God’s Word is in you. It is a seed. A seed does not exist just to hide in the ground. A seed will sprout, push up out of the ground, grow a stalk and put out leaves and blooms so that it may produce fruit, and that fruit is meant to be of benefit to others. God’s Word is a seed in us and it is growing in us (Lk 8:11). A seed cannot stay as it is, it must increase (Jn 12:24). God’s Word is working in you to improve you and increase you to bring forth good fruit.  Col.1:29 “…His mighty power works in me.” (Col.1:29, GW) We are praying you discover daily the Word of God working powerfully in your life.
(Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day. www.txpraise.com)


 


We Need More Than Politicians

What we need more than better politicians is an awakening move of God (at least)… in the Church, then the nation. God will never share, with mere political parties, the power He has designed to be exercised through the Church. “Politicians are not to be looked to for complete social reform… The politicalrallyposterChurch has been losing influence in America because it has been relying on politics to stop the moral and spiritual decay in society. Politics will not catalyze the change; it is simply a reflection of the environment. If the environment is rooted in Christian values, the politics of America will be rooted in Christian values… The spiritual revival and renewal of Christian faith needed in America will never originate from Washington. Once the spiritual climate changes, Washington will be changed. If the American Church thinks her salvation […] comes from Washington and a God-fearing president, then her hope is rooted in a counterfeit… God’s Church is not dependent on elections; it is dependent upon His Word, which declares, ‘… I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.’” (Matt 16:18) (Dennis Lindsey)  If we are not careful, we can just get to looking around and saying, “‘Such and such’ is what’s going on” and forget that God is at work.
(This is the third excerpt from Marty Gabler’s article “What is Going On?“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


 


Peace and Riots

worldgodhandsAs the people of God assemble today, may they be assured of God’s peace that passes all understanding and seeks to dwell in their hearts by the power of the risen Christ. May they realize and embrace the unity of the Body of Christ and the strength of oneness in our Lord as they boldly make prayers unto God for the salvation of our nation.  “Confuse the speech of my enemies, O Lord! I see violence and riots in the city,” (Ps.55:9, GNT)  “Felix, who knew Christians didn’t go around starting riots…” (Acts 24:22a, Living Bible)


 


Rejoicing for the Nation

rejoicingpeople1“This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Ps.118:24)  On this passage Clarke basically says that since the Lord has called us to triumph, this is the day He has appointed for that purpose. He seems to be claiming it for himself, as should we—this time period, this season, even this very day is the day of our triumphing in Christ. This is rejoicing for what the Lord had done for the nation. V.23 “This is the Lord’s doing.” Now, as then, mere man does not have the answers for our nation. Let us lift our voices to the throne of God that we may rejoice in what Jehovah has done in our nation. Rejoice and be glad!


 


Not Shrink Back

Hopefully, we will not shrink back and think we can opt out of choosing to respond to our Lord’s “Come on” (Matt.14:29). If we refuse to cooperate shrinkawayfromwith God’s intent stirring within us, there will be repercussions. For one, not moving forward in God’s direction can leave us to simply become a victim of our present circumstances instead of changing them.  For another, we get cheated out of destiny and fulfillment that would make our lifetime bring glory to God.  For another, we suffer the consequences of disobedience, (which are too varied and numerous to list here.)  Believe it or not, just like it was hard for Jonah to fight cooperating with God, it is not easy for a son to ignore or defy the cry of a son’s heart.
(This excerpt is from the article “Bid Me Come” written by Kathy Gabler.)


 


Part of Something Bigger

firebucketwaterYou are part of something that is bigger than you are and it is still standing and it is still advancing. (1) The wall is still standing. You and I may only be small pebbles in its makeup but we are part of that wall. (2) You and I may not be Gideon but we are part of that which does not consider the odds. We consider Him who has called us.  (3) You and I may not be the whole bucket of water that is being thrown on the fire but we are drops that are putting out flames. (Heb.12:3, GW) “Think about Jesus, who endured opposition from sinners, so that you don’t become tired and give up.”  We are praying you discover daily that you are part of something bigger than you are. (Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day.)


 


Prayers and Partnership for the Nation

As you consider your musings throughout the day, as you hear news broadcasts and partake in discussions about current events, may the Lord usagodshandsencourage you for the future of our nation and your vital part in assuring that future. May you be encouraged that your prayers and partnership are significant in His workings in America. May you receive His assurance that you shall not be moved out of purpose nor off the foundation of God Almighty. Let’s claim (Ps.46:5) “God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved:  God shall help her, and that right early.” Also (Ps.62:6) “He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defense; I shall not be moved.” We are praying you discover daily that God is your defense.   (Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day. www.txpraise.com)


 


USA at a Tipping Point

The people of God already have a King and Redeemer and no politician can replace Him. Jesus Christ the Son of the Living God is our redeemer and Messiah. “We have had conservative presidents but not one has called the nation to a fast. Conservativism will not replace godliness.” (D. Gentry) worldtippingpointAnd while mentioning conservativism, consider a poignant measure on the future of the matter: “The weakened Republican Party will not be successful in opposing important policy shifts. It will be engaged in an internal ideological struggle. Its main question will be the extent to which it can continue to accommodate the ideas of its religious faction and yet expand its base to appeal to a broad coalition who sees the religious right as the albatross around the neck of the party.” (S.Soleyn) We are standing at a tipping point in this nation that we have not quite approached to date and, for the most part, are not even aware of. The Church was never meant to place itself or its hope in the hands of political parties, candidates or governing or judicial entities created by men. The Church will only function the way it was created and ordained to function, standing on the foundation of the rule of God, that is, Kingdom principles. When the king of Sodom opened his arms wide to include Abraham in the economy of his own kingdom, Abraham quickly re- sponded: Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have sworn to the LORD God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth, 23 that I will not take a thread or a sandal thong or anything that is yours, for fear you would say, ‘I have made Abram rich.’ (Gen.14:22-23) You become a lackey for the one who fills your pocket and they never let you forget they are the one that did it. (Excerpt from Marty’s article “What is Going On?”)


 


Harassment Cut Off

holdinghanddownI had three more promptings to pray, “Hands off,” in the weeks that followed.  On one occasion, I had a vision as I prayed and I actually saw hands falling off at the wrist.  I quickly said, “Lord, I was not thinking so viciously.  That’s not my fault!”  However, the vision was not about any person being maimed, it was simply assurance that not only was the interference and harassment being stopped, but the ability to continue to interfere and harass was being cut off in that matter also.  Thank you, Father.
(This is the eleventh excerpt from Kathy Gabler’s article “Hands Off!“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


 


Prayer to Heal the Land

prayflaghandsAs the people of God assemble today, may they join hearts and minds and prayer and persevere for the purposes of God in our nation. May they lift their voices together and cry out for a turning to righteousness and the healing of this land.
”If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2Chron.7:14, KJV)


 


First Things First

putfirstthingsThere are people and things that are continually vying for our attention and our loyalty. How often have we allowed the little things to tempt us, distract us and hinder us? How far up on the list have we let “minor” items inch toward “major” positions in recent years? Habits, indulgences and expenditures tend to creep ever upward among priorities and can eventually press biblically-based convictions out of position.  May the Lord help us to keep things in the order that the wisdom of biblical values would put them. (Matt.8:22, Msg) Jesus said, “First things first. Your business is life, not death. Follow me. Pursue life.” We are praying you discover daily that you are keeping Christ at the head of the list of things that are important and worth living for.   (Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day.)
www.txpraise.com


 


Original Intent Still in View

(Kathy) Another interesting thing happened that same week we realized it was time for old patterns to be broken: an eagle flew by Melissa’s window.  eaglelookingawayAn eagle symbolizes God’s perspective, a prophetic view that reaches beyond what we can see and feel.  That eagle pierced the current conditions and atmosphere as a  prophetic reminder that God’s original intent is still in view and no wars on the brink or patterns of interruption will keep it from coming to pass.  That is the second eagle she has seen while looking out a window this year.  The number “two” indicates a matter that is already determined by God and will soon come to pass. (Gen 41:32) It is pure encouragement to know God doesn’t forget His original intent and that He intends to bring it to pass!
(This is the tenth excerpt from Kathy Gabler’s article “Hands Off!“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


SEEC Magazine Latest Issue
CLICK ON LINK BELOW TO READ:
https://martygabler.com/magazine/


Bid Me Come

When Peter saw Jesus walking on the water, he cried out, “Bid me come.” (Matt.14:28) That “BID me COME” is in the heart of all of us.  JESUS is saying to us too, “COME ON!”  There is no need for us to live a watered-down version of what God had in mind for our lifetime.  We don’t have to leave a wimpy heritage.  Fear may try to hold us in the boat but there is a stronger force at work.  There is a heart’s cry, “Lord, BID me COME.”  There will be times that the cry of “BID me COME” stirs in our breast and we have a choice to respond to Jesus.  We are praying you discover daily that Jesus is bidding you to come walk with Him in victory. (Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day.)


 


Harassment Shut Out

(Kathy) As a second witness to a time for these old patterns to be broken, a call came with a prophetic word for us, “The door of the ark is about to close.”  Marty said that word meant that harassment and interference was getting shut out and God’s provision and strategy shut in, making us ready to move forward.  As I went to record and date that word, for some reason I wrote, 6/15/92.  I was shocked that year seemed to come, not to mind but to my fingers!  It made me suspect the pattern of delay and deferral that is breaking has been at work in our lives for 24 years.  Again, it is time for long-term sieges to end!
(This is the ninth excerpt from Kathy Gabler’s article “Hands Off!“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


 


Encouragement Toward Improvement

When a person criticizes someone else it opens a flood door of past criticisms to rush in one after another that seem to confirm the assessment.  The enemy takes advantage and takes a toll on the person’s value, purpose and vulnerability. Then shutdown and withdrawal are two major temptations for that person. Let us be careful not to criticize and let us steel ourselves against the effects of criticism whether they be about us or another person. (Rom.2:1, Msg) “…Every time you criticize someone, you condemn yourself. It takes one to know one. Judgmental criticism of others is a well-known way of escaping detection in your own crimes and misdemeanors.” Let’s encourage one another toward improvement. We are praying you discover daily that words of encouragement out-number criticisms.
(Marty’s Daily Discovery as heard on TEXAS PRAISE RADIO at the bottom of the hour 24 hours/day.)


 


An End to Old Patterns

pencilerasing(Kathy) I perceive it is time for overused weapons (interference and harassment) to backfire.  Also, it is time for sieges to end and old patterns of defeat to be broken. We have been equipped with wisdom and awareness to refuse to be conditioned for delay and disappointment.  A new thought for me is that the way to win some wars is to end them!  Many wars lose their presence and meaning when we refuse to allow them to go inside our attitude and condition our life.  Shutting them out shuts them down.
(This is the eighth excerpt from Kathy Gabler’s article “Hands Off!“. More excerpts will be posted Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.)


 


Performing What He Promised

As the people of God assemble today, may they dwell on the God Who plans and Whose plans never fail. May they worship and look to the One who is greater than any politician and Who keeps His promises. Not only does He make promises but He is able to keep them.
”and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.” (Rom.4:21, NKJV)