Mark Anderson Ministries - Magazine Articles

These articles are teachings shared in our Quarterly Good News Magazine. If you would like to subscribe to the Good News Magazine email us at goodnews@vcn.com. The Good News Magazine is sent out free of charge to all subscribers. It has reports from the Mission field, our itinerary, as well as various teachings that will bless you!

By Mark R. Anderson

The day after the elections the Lord greatly encouraged me about what He wants to do in this nation. Many Christians may believe that the results of the election will take the USA down a path of destruction and a recipient of God’s judgment.

According to God’s word and what I sense Jesus Christ is ready to do on this earth I beg to differ! First, God poured out His judgment 2,000 years ago at Calvary, when Jesus hung on the cross. Secondly, the move of God is not based on who is in control politically. Perfect examples of this are present-day China and India. The political climate in China and India is abusive to Christians. Yet, in spite of the political opposition to Christ and Christians in these countries, 25,000 to 40,000 people a day are coming to Christ in China and 17,000 a day coming to Christ in India. Let us not forget how the Church flourished and grew even as crazed Nero was throwing Christians to the lions and burning them as human torches. The political situation cannot stop the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ unless we allow it to by focusing on the doom and gloom.

The primary reason the move of God is not quenched in India and China is clearly stated in Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…. What is the Gospel? IT IS THE GOOD NEWS OF JESUS CHRIST! The good news of Jesus Christ is the POWER OF GOD UNTO SLAVATION. The word salvation means forgiveness, physical healing, deliverance, protection and prosperity. The good news of Jesus Christ is going forth in these countries, and millions are turning to Christ as a result. It could be the same in the USA if believers were to focus on sharing the Gospel.

We have ministered in areas where militant Hindus were on a killing rampage. All we did was share the Gospel. We experienced that the greater the opposition, the greater the display of miracles, signs and wonders by the all-powerful One, Jesus Christ. It is all in the message of sharing the Gospel and staying focused on Jesus Christ.

My focus and heart is not on the bad, or immoral political decisions that can be made, but on Jesus Christ and spreading His good news. There is enough doom and gloom in this world. We Christians, as followers of Christ, and especially our leaders, should not add to it. The Gospel (good news) of Jesus is the only hope of bringing TRUE REPENTANCE to this hurting sinful world and our nation.

Romans 2:4 says Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? This was the Apostle Paul’s message: The good news of Jesus Christ! It is in sharing and demonstrating the good news of Jesus Christ that will turn our nation and world to Jesus, not focusing in on all the negatives. If followers of Jesus spread doom and gloom and veer from the Gospel message, then our country could very well spiral downward. If we offer no hope to the hopeless, His power will be quenched by a religious spirit. The greatest opposition to the Gospel does not come from the lost, it comes from a religious spirit within the church.

The President, Congress, Senate, Republicans or Democrats are not our saviors. Many Christians act as though they are our saviors. With this mindset we believers become spiritually lazy rather than rising up to do our part. Jesus and His Gospel alone is our help in any situation.

The lost in this world need an alternative for the lifestyle they are living. If all the Church offers is bad news, a religious spirit, not the spirit of Jesus Christ then we offer them NOTHING TO CHANGE THEIR LIVES. If we get good at sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ than the world sees the alternative to the lifestyle they are living. If we get good at sharing the Gospel it is like a seed that has power to produce forgiveness of sin, physical healing, deliverance from demonic torment, supernatural protection, abundant life and God’s prosperity. If all we do is focus on the negatives as followers of Jesus Christ, we reduce His Message to something that has no power to change anything or anyone.

Referring to End times, Paul makes this statement in 2 Timothy 3:5 He said many having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! Does the message you present about God have the power of God to change lives? Paul also says in 1Thessalonians 1:5, “ For our Gospel (good news) did come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit…” Paul said he was not ashamed of the good news of Jesus Christ because it has the power to set captives free, to give a lost world healing, an alternative for hopelessness, and so much more.

Romans 15:18-19 says For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me, in word and deed, to make the Gentiles obedient in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and round about to Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. What has Christ accomplished in you? Good things! James 1:17 says Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. That is what we should be sharing with the lost. Paul stuck to sharing the Gospel or good news. HE FULLY PREACHED THE GOSPEL (GOOD NEWS) OF CHRIST. Signs and wonders were a regular part of his ministry, as well as that of many other followers of Jesus in the early church because they had one message: the Gospel, which is good news and good gifts from our Heavenly Father.

I am greatly encouraged right here, right now by what the Holy Spirit is about to do in this nation and throughout the world. My excitement has nothing to do with the political landscape of our country. It has everything to do with what He will do as we share the Gospel (good news, not bad news) of Jesus Christ with the lost. These are the most exciting days to be followers of Jesus Christ and to share the Gospel. It can change our nation from the inside out.

Do not let your faith be based on or moved by who is in control of this country. Rather let it be based on how big our Jesus really is. He is much bigger that any government. He spoke the universe into existence and has named each star. Governments are but dust to our HUGE GOD. He is the omnipotent, all powerful One and is ready to do something big with those who realize who they are in Christ; but in themselves they are “Nothing”.

BECOMING NOTHING SO HE CAN BE EVERYTHING

Phillipians 2:5-7 says Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. Verse 7 in the NIV says that Jesus made Himself nothing. Now He is exalted to the highest place (see Phil. 2:9-11). Jesus is looking for “Nothings” so that He can be everything in them. I have never in my life felt so much like a “nothing or nobody” as I do now and it feels great. I have never felt so strong and had so much expectancy for miracles, signs and wonders. Speaking of the last days, Daniel 11:32 says…But the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.

I look back in amazement at all that He has accomplished through this nobody. It is because He is everything. He is life itself. Apart from Him there is no life at all. John 1:4 says, “in Him was life and the life was the light of men.” He is what our nation needs, not doom and gloom and more hopelessness. We are the light of the world or the hope to this world (see Matthew 5:14-16). We carry Jesus Christ and His good news within us.
1 John 2:8 says the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining.

RIGHTEOUSNESS EXALTS A NATION

Proverbs 14:34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people. How do you perceive this verse? From the perspective of someone who knows who they are in Christ, or from the political landscape we see around us? The way we perceive this verse makes all the difference in our lives.

I use this verse to decide for whom I should vote. But the results are not always the way I voted. Maybe the politicians do not live a righteous life, but as followers of Jesus we should, and that will put a nation over. We need to know who we are in Christ. We are the salt of the earth (see. Matthew 5:13), not the politicians. We, His followers preserve this nation by our walk with Christ and pursuing Him wholeheartedly despite what goes on around us.

Proverbs 21:1 says The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes. Do you think heaven is shaken by the political landscape in various countries? No! In fact Jesus knew before the foundation of the earth who would lead each nation and at what time. Our job as believers here in the USA is found in 1 Timothy 2:1-3 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior. As believers our job is to back our President and President Elect, Bush and Obama in prayer so that our God can influence their decisions. Whining and complaining about our politicians will never further the cause of Jesus Christ.

DON’T LIMIT GOD

Don’t permit the political landscape to put limits on our limitless God. Psalm 78:41:42 says Yes, again and again they tempted God, And limited the Holy One of Israel. They did not remember His power: The day when He redeemed them from the enemy. We tempt God with our unbelief when we say that He can only move in our nation when godly men and women are in power. We need to constantly remember all that He has done, and share His goodness with those around us. As we do so we plant seed for a harvest of miracles. As we share the testimonies of our great God we set an atmosphere for the miraculous to be repeated time and time again.

Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. When people hear the Word of God and that God has healed or delivered somebody then that seed of faith has been planted for their miracle. Acts 10:34 In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. If God does it for one person then He will do it for anybody. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Everyday can be a bright and beautiful day with Jesus residing within us. A bright and beautiful day is not based on weather or politics, but on who resides within us. If Jesus is the focus and center of our lives then it will always be bright and beautiful, regardless of outward circumstances.

PROMOTION COMES FROM GOD

Psalm 75:6-7 says For exaltation comes neither from the east (Washington, DC) Nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, And exalts another. Despite the circumstances you can be put over by God if you understand how promotion in His kingdom works.

Do you desire to know whom He exalts and whom He puts down? Psalm 138:6 tells us Though the LORD is on high, Yet He regards the lowly; But the proud He knows from afar. James 4:6, 8, 10 says But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “ God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.
(James 4:6, 8, &10). We need to draw near to our God in order to tap into His power, grace and blessing. How do you draw near to Him? Remain humble and He will promote you. The truly humble will carry His nature and anointing to a lost world. Pride and arrogance will drive the lost further away from our humble Savior. If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14). The onus of a moral vibrant country therefore depends on us, the believers.

Regardless of the political landscape, promotion comes from God as we remain humble and just get good at sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Daniel 2:21-22 And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise And knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, And light dwells with Him

HOW TO PROPSPER DURING ECONOMICALLY HARD TIMES
By Mark R. Anderson
The Holy Spirit is directing me to teach on how to prosper during hard times and doing it God’s way. We cannot deny the fact that the economy is a bit unstable and the rising prices of all commodities can take a toll on the wallet; but as believers in Christ we are not subject to the economy of this world. We can live above it. God’s word is a guide to prospering during hard times.

One of the most talked about subjects in the Bible is FINANCES, and instructions on how to handle our finances. We desire to see you blessed financially and every other way during economically difficult times; so does God! Psalm 35:27 says, Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my righteous cause; and let them say continually, “Let the LORD be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.”

This ministry as well as Sharmila and I personally live by these scriptures. Trusting in God and living by God’s word for our supply creates an atmosphere of prosperity.

KING SOLOMOM’S VIEW OF FINANCES

King Solomon was one of the wealthiest men to walk on this planet. Solomon asked God for wisdom and not wealth, and God gave him both (see 1 Kings 4:5-15)! It was the wisdom of God that brought him such tremendous prosperity. It helped him in all the affairs of life. The book of Proverbs, mostly written by Solomon, is loaded with wisdom on how to prosper and when we tie these with other verses in the Bible it is clearly apparent how easy financial prosperity is even in economically unstable times.

One of my favorite verses on prosperity is Proverbs 22:4. It says, “By humility and the fear of the LORD Are riches and honor and life”. Religious traditions, not the word of God, have taught us for centuries that poverty is a sign of humility in God’s sight. God’s word is quite contrary to this belief. God’s wisdom and His word tell us that if we truly tap into humility and fear (reverence) for God, then with it comes RICHES AND HONOR. What will you believe, men’s traditions or God’s word? 1 Timothy 6:17 also tells us that if we want to be rich (financially) then we should not be haughty or prideful.

True and lasting prosperity come when we truly understand and walk in humility – the humility that Jesus walked in. By the way Jesus was not poor. 2 Corinthians 8:9 says, For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” Notice one other major ingredient that helps us prosper in the verse: GRACE. We cannot work up the blessings of God; it comes by God’s grace. 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 talk about how grace is involved in prospering God’s way.

1 Peter 5:5 and James 4:6 tell us who gets the grace. “ He gives more grace. Therefore He says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Who gets it? The humble! The major ingredients in prospering God’s way are humility and the grace of God.

If we acknowledge our dependence on God and humble ourselves to do it His way then prosperity will automatically come our way. Many believers try to prosper through their own works, merits and ways and end up in a financial mess. This is not a good place to be. We cannot continue to operate according to the system of the world and expect lasting results. If our financial foundation is not laid properly, it could collapse someday with nothing to show for our labor.

GENEROSITY TOWARDS THE POOR

King Solomon talks at length about the poor and how they should be treated. Proverbs 22:9 says, “He who has a generous eye will be blessed, for he gives of his bread to the poor.” We teach these principles to believers and leaders in India. Many of them struggle financially because they do not give, but wait for handouts from westerners. Many do not have integrity when it comes to money matters. We are very careful in the way we deal with money matters in third world countries. We teach them that if they will be generous towards the poor in the long run they will be ‘poor no more’. God’s word says that we will be blessed when we learn to take our eyes off ourselves and care for the needs of others, especially the poor and destitute. Solomon calls it a ‘generous eye’. This means that in our hearts we need to be constantly looking for opportunities to be generous with what God has given us, whether finances or our own unique giftings.

The enemy’s way to keep us in poverty is for us to be selfish and not generous, concerned only with our own personal needs. Proverbs 28:27 says, “He who gives to the poor will not lack, But he who hides his eyes will have many curses.” If we hide our eyes from the poor then we can be sure that we will not be blessed but just the opposite, operating with a poverty spirit. If we give to the poor and have a genuine desire to help people in need, then God’s word says ‘you will not lack’. That is nice to know in troubled times. Proverbs 13:22 (Amp) says, “…the wealth of the sinner (finds its way eventually) into the hands of the righteous, for whom it is laid up.”

Proverbs 22:16, “He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, And he who gives to the rich, will surely come to poverty.” Many do not consider this verse, but once again God makes it abundantly clear that if we care for the poor and destitute, than His blessing will come upon our lives.

LABORING TO GIVE TO THOSE IN NEED

Proverbs 12:24 says, “The hand of the diligent will rule, But the lazy man will be put to forced labor.” When we are diligent in our jobs or with the giftings God has put in our lives we will ‘rule in life’ and not be put to ‘forced labor’ or having to do something we do not enjoy to make a living for the rest of our lives. God has intended that we work in order to make a living. The apostle Paul said “For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Work is essential to being sustained in this life. However if all we are doing is simply earning a living then we are missing the whole point of life on earth and the reason for our existence.

Ephesians 4;28 says, “Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.” This is God’s way of reforming a thief. Get him working and laboring with his hands. Why? That he may have something to give to him who has need. God’s way of reforming a thief is for him to work and be a blessing to others. If he will do this then the former thief will be blessed and will prosper.

Let’s look at another passage of scripture that talks about being a robber. “Yet from the days of your fathers You have gone away from My ordinances And have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” Says the LORD of hosts. But you said, ‘ In what way shall we return?’ “ Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘ In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. You are cursed with a curse, For you have robbed Me, Even this whole nation. Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the LORD of hosts, “ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. “ And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,” Says the LORD of hosts; And all nations will call you blessed, For you will be a delightful land,” Says the LORD of hosts. (Malachi 3:7-12).

In verse 7 God tells His people to return to Him. The people answer asking how should they return to Him. Look at God’s answer in verse 8, “will a man rob God.” How did these people rob God? By not giving tithes and offerings! In other words they were only focused on themselves and their own personal needs. Verse 9 says that this lifestyle brought a curse of poverty into their lives. One thing that I absolutely do not want in my life especially during economically trying times is to be under a curse of poverty. When we refuse to give back to God a small portion of all He has blessed us with then we are making a strong statement to God and others. We are saying ‘God I do not trust you as my source financially.’ We are robbing God and others who could be reached with the love of Christ. Selfishness can be an inward expression of our heart, of not trusting God with our lives.

Israel was to show Jehovah that they were returning to Him by ‘giving back to Him’. If Jesus has control or your finances then there is a good chance that He has all of you. Verse 10 says something that God says nowhere else in the entire Bible. He says “Try Me in this” or ‘put Me to the test’, ‘prove Me’ or ‘I dare you’. We have found that whenever the Lord tells us to give personally or from the ministry, beyond our comfort zone, it is a win, win situation because we cannot out give God. When we release the little in our hand then He releases the unending amount in His hand. Why? So that we can be a continual source of blessing to others and be blessed ourselves (See Genesis 12:1-3).

Look at verse 11. When we are involved in giving, giving Jesus control of our finances then He gets involved in our finances “rebuking the devourer” in our lives. It is so much easier when God does the rebuking. Nothing stands in His way. Sharmila and I as well as this ministry do not find it hard to give any amount the Lord tells us to give, because we know that His provision is more than enough and is on its way if we are obedient to Him with our finances.

It is exciting and fun to make Jesus the Lord of our finances and doing what He wants us to do with those finances; even it means suffering lack for a short period of time. (See 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). We can never out give the one who longs to be our source at all times, especially during economically hard times. He desires that we trust Him in all areas of our lives and that includes with our finances. To give as God says of our hard earned money makes a statement and sets an atmosphere for God’s provision in our lives.

Laying up Treasures in Heaven

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share (Greek -distribute), storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life (1 Timothy 6:17-19). If we are willing and ready to give even before receiving blessings from God verse 19 says we are laying up a good foundation for the time to come. Our willingness to distribute and give secures our financial future especially when financial prosperity seems difficult.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-21, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” How do we lay treasures in heaven; by giving to a Bible believing church, the poor, missions or anything that furthers the kingdom of God. This is the best place to invest as the investment can never be lost or stolen by the enemy. Investments into the Kingdom of God will never fail. Jesus places an extremely high value on souls; He gave His life for each one, and they will never lose their value to Him! Sharmila and I have found that this investment has the best financial yield, even in this lifetime; compared to anything else we have ever invested in. We know our financial future is very secure because we are laying up treasures in heaven. (see also 1 Timothy 6:17-19).

Jesus wants our hearts. If our earthly treasures are sowed with eternity in mind, then our heart is in heaven where it belongs. If our treasures are only used for material things then our heart is not in heaven, but on earth, and all earthly things will eventually pass away.

Jim Elliott the missionary martyr to the Auca Indians of Ecuador said this about laying treasure in heaven. “He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain that he cannot lose.” Are you making a difference in this lifetime by laying up treasures in heaven? This is all that will count for all eternity. Giving of ourselves that others may know Christ is what counts for eternity. Giving financially is not the only way to lay your treasures in heaven. Making Jesus the Lord of every area of our lives and giving our all for the sake of the gospel is also how we can lay up treasures in heaven that do not fade away.

I heard this testimony of a man in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, who was afflicted with multiple sclerosis. The disease had taken a severe toll on his body confining him to a wheelchair. During that time his Pastor started teaching on healing and faith. This man sat under the teaching consistently and began to apply what he learned to his circumstances. Within a few months he was out of the wheelchair, walking with the aid of a cane. A little later he discarded the cane and could walk a little on his own. As he continued to renew his mind to God’s word regarding healing, within a year he was running. This came about as he refused to accept the world’s verdict and diagnosis of multiple sclerosis that he would only deteriorate and there would be no improvement for his condition with the passage of time. Rather than embracing that fact, he choose to embrace God’s answer for his circumstance and was healed, not instantly, but over the passage of time as he consistently renewed his mind to God’s word. That is a perfect example of the power of renewing our mind and doing what God’s word says about our circumstances. This can happen to any believer who will have the tenacity to believe and do what God’s word says.

In order to witness miracles and healings on a consistent basis renewing the mind to the truth of God’s word and who we are in Christ is unprecedented in importance. The concept of renewing the mind can be successfully applied to any area of life, whether for health, holiness, prosperity, marriage, joy, etc.

3 John vs. 2 says, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” In this verse God’s desire for us His children is very clear. He desires that we prosper and walk in health. Personally I adhere to the opinion that we should walk in divine health consistently, rather than constantly being in need of a miracle.

As my wife Sharmila and I age, by the grace of God and by standing on His word, we continue to walk in excellent health. Some assume that to walk in health as one ages is impossible, as it is only natural for the body to deteriorate with age. However as the above scripture puts it, prosperity and health are contingent on our soul. Our soul prospers as we apply God’s word to every aspect of our lives. We can and will prosper in those areas of our lives where we apply God’s word. More important than medical insurance is the medical assurance God’s word gives to believers, those knowing who they are IN CHRIST and what they have IN CHRIST.

Romans 12:1-3, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And 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. For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each person a measure of faith.”

When one gets saved, what is saved? The spirit! Personally I do not believe that the body or mind is saved. But the salvation Jesus purchased for us includes healing for the body and deliverance! James 1:21 says, “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your soul.” I believe the soul in this text includes one’s mind, will and emotions. For an example some people are saved but still struggle with cancer in their physical bodies. In such situations one needs to renew the mind to the word of God, by studying scripture and applying them to our situation, then our body will come in line with the benefits of the salvation/ healing Jesus provided at Calvary.

In spite of being saved, some of us may struggle financially, or battle sickness or demonic torment, even though Christ has redeemed us from all of these. God’s word is full of promises for abundant life, and if we stand on those promises and apply them to our lives we will witness a positive change in our circumstances. It is our choice to walk in healing, prosperity, joy etc. God will never force His will on us.

Keeping Romans 12:1-3 before us, we know that we are a three part being. Verse 1 refers to the physical body… “present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God…” Verse 2 refers to the mind, which needs to be renewed… “but be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” Finally verse 3 refers to the inner or spirit man… “through the grace given to me….”

Our emphasis in this chapter pertains to Verse 2, “And do not be conformed (Greek: fashioned, patterned after) this world, but be transformed (Greek: to go through metamorphosis, to change from one form to another) by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

Here verse 2 says not to be conformed, which means patterned or fashioned to this world or its ways of thinking, but on the contrary, to be transformed by the renewing of your mind. The word transformed here in the Greek means to “go through metamorphosis, to change or transfigure.”

I do not make this statement. This is God’s word, and it says you and I, and our circumstances can change or be transformed when we renew our mind. What do we renew our mind to? Read on! To the perfect will of God! God’s word is His will (see

1 John 5:14-15). Also keep in mind Jesus and His Word are the same (see John 1:1-4, 14). Jesus and His Word are inseparable. The focus needs to be Jesus and the Word in order to change our circumstances.

1 Corinthians 2:16 says, “For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.” According to this scripture we have the mind of Christ. Walking in the wholeness of the mind of Christ is an everyday task that may take a lifetime. We acquire His mind by diligently studying the Word and applying it to our lives. The more we learn the word of God, the more we have His mind to think, act, and go through life successfully.

Romans 12:2 refers to the “good and acceptable and perfect will of God”. When pertaining to healing a number of people are not sure of God’s will. How do we know that it is God’s will to heal anyone? We know that the Bible is His will and it talks at length on healing. In fact healing was an integral part of Jesus’ ministry on earth and we are commanded and commissioned to follow in His footsteps (Mark 16:15-18, John 14:12).

Unfortunately we live in a society of instant gratification. Stores are stocked with microwaves, fast food restaurants are always busy, individual needs are met instantly. Often in our Christian walk we desire the principles of instant gratification to apply as well to our finances, health or circumstances. Often our answers do not lie in the instant quick fix but rather they are achieved over a period of time, so that we can mature, learn and something positive is birthed within us for a lifetime. This process comes about as we renew our minds to God’s word.

Many are unwilling to go through the steady process of transformation. They want a quick fix. They think that just casting out a demon; popping a pill or blaming others will solve their problems.

When we continually blame outward circumstances such as others, the government, our spouse or children for our problems, but are unwilling to change the inside, we are buying into the enemy’s lie that will blind us and bind us and will keep us from lasting change. Renewing our mind, changing the inside, not just the outside will bring about lasting change and freedom. On some occasions, to bring about change, controlling or demonic forces need to be dealt with, but if the mind is not renewed and the inside changed many end up dealing with the same problem time and time again. (see Matthew 12:43-45) If we renew our mind to God’s word and live according to the Word, it can bring deliverance and permanent change.

It is unfortunate many embrace a lie that the root of their problem is their spouse, or job, the area one lives in etc. One tends to blame difficulties on external circumstances, deceiving oneself. We may move to a different town or change jobs, where for a while life goes on smoothly, but soon the same problems rear their ugly head once again. Why? Because the problems are within us and we brought them with us! For the most part problems will not change unless we make a conscious decision to change by renewing our mind to the word of God.

Many marriages would not be falling apart if spouses would cease blaming each other and start looking inward. True change comes one heart at a time, when each person involved deals with their own thoughts and heart. The power of God’s word within us has the ability to change any circumstance, or solve any problem, regardless of its magnitude.

Notice verse 3 says not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought to think. To truly change, alter or transform our negative situations we have to understand the need for humility. Many are not humble enough to acknowledge the need for change and thus continue to be beaten up by their sickness, poverty, depression, discouragements, marital problems, etc. Many do not take evaluations that cause them to acknowledge their need for change. Pride stands in their way of making a lasting change.

One of the best ways to be humble and teachable is with your mate. Sharmila and I have given each other permission, to lovingly bring correction to each other, if we see areas that need to change. It takes humility but the end result is lasting change and a great marriage. We want to grow in humility and that is one we are growing in humility. Change is good if God is in it! In order to do this in a marriage, you cannot have one mate always in control. Husbands and wives need to walk and work together as joint heirs of the grace of life (see 1 Peter 3:7).

There have been a number of times in my life where I had to acknowledge my thoughts and actions were not in line with God’s word and I had to humble myself, repent and DO WHAT THE WORD SAID TO CHANGE MY NEGATIVE CIRCUMSTANCES and transformation (change) took place.

I have noticed many Charismatic/ Pentecostal churches believe (at least mentally) in divine healing but see very few if any healings. Why is that? One of the reasons is there is no foundation laid (in-depth teaching or renewing of the mind) on the subject and therefore no transformation (change) takes place in the physical bodies of those needing healing and/or deliverance. Secondly true mind renewal is not just mental ascent to a truth in God’s Word. It is in doing what you believe that brings about the true and lasting change. It starts by changing the inside!

If we are beaten up by sickness, poverty, and mental and demonic attacks, then those that are sitting under our teaching and leadership, as a result get beaten up with us. Renewing our mind to what God’s word says, and doing it, will take us down a road to victory. It all comes down to our willingness to allow the Word to change our outlook in life. We need to be examples of the Gospel working powerfully and transforming our lives. The Gospel is loaded with the good news that Jesus has come to heal, forgive, bless and deliver. We can walk in all these things on a consistent basis.

Romans 10:17 says “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Faith comes by the hearing God’s word, then acting upon God’s word. Faith is what activates God’s miracle working power! Faith based upon renewing our mind to what God’s word says transforms our circumstances.

Many times to bring about change in our thought life and circumstances, we need to be open to learning from others. Some are unwilling to go outside of the belief system of those with whom they fellowship. As a result things never change. Some have the knowledge of what to do for their circumstances but never act on what the Word says. 1 Corinthians 8:1 says “We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies.” Just having a knowledge of God’s word without any practical experience has led some down a road of pride and arrogance that just puffs them up but has no power to change their lives for the better. It is a lot like leaven that Jesus described; it inflates but offers no nutritional value. Change and transformation comes when we do God’s word. Love is an action, something we must do, not just something we think or feel.

Isaiah 55:7-11, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

Just how far are the heavens above the earth? The heavens are much higher than the earth. That might give you somewhat of an idea of how much higher God’s thoughts and ways are compared to our thoughts and ways.

The above scriptures emphasize abandoning our old way of life with its thoughts once we come to Christ. Why? Because God’s ways and thoughts are much higher and superior to man’s! Our ways and thoughts are usually influenced by our upbringing. If it has been without the word of God, then in all likelihood that lifestyle and thoughts will not be pure and not conducive to producing positive results in our lives.

God says, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways….” How are we to successfully change our ways and thoughts to align with His? By studying His word, as His thoughts and ways that are found in the Word. This should make every Christian extremely hungry for the word of God.

How are we going to witness miracles of Biblical proportions – the blind seeing, the deaf hearing, the dead resurrected etc.? By tapping into the power of His word, and thinking like He does. So much of what is taught in Christian circles today is just natural thinking that does not include the supernatural power of God. All it does is help Christians to cope, but never to walk in the supernatural power of God or to live in victory over their circumstances. We need to go beyond that kind of thinking and tap into God’s thoughts and ways.

I am absolutely convinced that the word of God has the power and ability to change us – spiritually, mentally, financially and physically; to change any negative circumstance to a positive one. If we call upon and use the word of God it does not return void, but as it says in the above scripture, “...it (the word) shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper (Hebrew- succeed in its fulfillment) in the thing for which I sent it.”

If God says that something is ours, whether it is joy, healing, peace, prosperity etc. then IT IS OURS. But how do we appropriate it? By renewing our mind to His word. It will change our circumstances because His word has the power to do so, to literally transform us or our circumstances.

I was ministering on the Blood Indian Reserve in Alberta, Canada years ago, where a lady was healed of a hernia, without anyone laying hands on her. I called out her condition as a word of knowledge and later she testified that she felt a hand push the hernia back into her body. Within a month and a half she also lost 50 pounds.

About two years later I returned to the same Reserve and ministered in a healing service. I shared with them the lady’s testimony from two years earlier. A charismatic catholic lady in the congregation felt that God was speaking to her through the testimony. She appropriated it for herself and was healed of a hernia while sitting in her chair. She was healed as she heard God’s word regarding her physical situation, before we even started ministering to those needing healing. That is the power behind God’s word and sharing testimonies of His power and love.

(Part 2)

How do we renew our minds? It is like planting seed. It starts with a thought. The thought becomes an action, the action a habit, the habit a lifestyle and the lifestyle a stronghold. We can have positive or negative strongholds in our lives, depending on how we were raised and what we are being taught right now. We need to build on the positive things in our lives and tear down the negative strongholds in our minds and hearts.

2 Cor. 10:4-5 says “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” Our mind is where the battle takes place!

Jesus said Mark 4:17 says “and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble.” Jesus is referring to people with no roots in the word of God. They quickly received the Word but the results were temporary. As they had no roots, when trials and persecution arose for the Word’s sake, and they immediately fell. The way we wage war with an enemy that Jesus already defeated is with the truth of God’s word. That is how we enforce his defeat and walk in all that Christ provided for us 2,000 years ago.

Satan and his demons’ plan is not to allow the Word to work in your life. That is why Jesus said “persecution arises for the word’s sake”. (Mark 4:17) They know the only way they can defeat Christians is when they do not apply God’s word to their circumstances. This battle we fight with the enemy of our soul all comes down to what we do with the truth of God’s word. Do we apply it and experience it or do we listen to demonic lies that will bind us and blind us to the truth (God’s word) that can set us free?

If believers really understood the power of God’s word to transform us we would see lasting changes in our lives for the better. We would get our roots down deep in the Word and not be shaken by anything the enemy throws our way. Jesus said “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock” (Matthew 7:26-27).

Examples of God’s Thoughts –vs- the World’s Thoughts

Let’s look at a few examples of the world’s thoughts vs. God’s thoughts. According to Romans 12:2 we need to remember that we do not have to be fashioned and patterned after the world and that we can change our circumstances when we apply God’s word.

1) The world says its flu season; you are going to get it. Get your medicine chest stocked with anti-flu medication, allergy medication etc. Once during the supposed flu season a gentleman greeted me with, “the flu is going around; you are going to get it”. I did not receive his confession, but I awoke the following morning with the flu. During those days I was starting to learn and understand faith. I started confessing God’s word of healing over myself, as I parked cars in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota in 30 degree below zero weather. My office was a little shack that could not keep the cold out. I listened to tapes on healing by Kenneth Copeland and listened to radio preachers sharing on Christ the healer. Within two hours I was completely healed. Then when people said the flu was going around, I would say “yes and praise God it going way around me. It is not coming near me.

As opposed to the world’s view on sickness the word of God says to lay hands on the sick and they shall recover ( Mark 16:17-18), by the stripes of Jesus we are healed (ref. Isaiah 53:4-5, 1 Peter 2:24), that God’s word will be life unto those that find it, and health (Hebrew-medicine) to all their flesh (Proverbs 4:22)

2) The world says if you grew up in poverty, then that has to be your portion for the rest of your life. However God’s word is so contrary to the world’s way of thinking. God’s word promises abundance for us and enough to get the gospel out if we just obey it. ( Duet 8:17-20 and 28:1-14, Gal. 3:13-14, Phil.4-15-19, Mal.3:8-11, Luke 6:38, Ps.35:27)

1 Peter 3:9 says, “not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.” According to this scripture when we are cursed we should not retaliate, rather bless the offender. This is what we are called to do. We are called to be blessed and to be a blessing.

God spoke to Abraham in Genesis12:2-3, “I will make you a great nation; I will bless you And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” We are the seed of Abraham. He was called to be a blessing – we have to learn to give it away and then we will be blessed. The world cannot fathom the theology that giving away will cause increased return. Practicing this principle has enabled us to do what we are doing all over the world today – giving as the Lord leads. Not just 10% but 100% of our finances belong to the Lord. We give what He tells us to and we are never left shortchanged.

3) The world says one has every right to be depressed and have self-pity when everything is going awry. One can also accept the world’s diagnosis that one has to live in depression because of chemical imbalances, using medication throughout life. Or on the contrary one can rise up with what the word of God says regarding depression in Neh. 8:10, “the joy of the Lord is our strength”, and to put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness or depression (see Isaiah 61:13). Joy and praise can turn around one’s circumstances and give strength to rise out of those circumstances.

James 1:2, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials (Greek also means tests and temptations).” and 1 Peter 1:7-8, “that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.”

The best way to break out of negative circumstances is to rejoice and praise the Lord. Joy is part of the fruit of the Spirit. It should automatically flow from within us, regardless of our circumstances, because of the nature of Christ within us. A fruit tree does not have to struggle to produce fruit, because the fruit is the outcome of what is within the tree; similarly as Christians we should not struggle with operating in joy, the fruit of the Spirit within us.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “in every thing (Greek- every way, every manner, every place) give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” This is not implying that we thank God for our trials and tribulations; rather we thank Him through them. This way we walk in victory! I believe that joy and praise are powerful weapons that can pull us through or out of the worst situations that may confront us during our lives. Jeremiah 15:16 in the amplified version reads, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and the rejoicing of my heart.”

4) The world says that if something feels good, if you desire to do it, then go ahead and indulge, regardless of the consequences to follow. This attitude does not foresee or care about the fruit of impulsive living. The Word on the contrary cautions us in our actions, warning that we reap what we sow. If we sow in the Spirit we will reap everlasting life – the Bible encourages us not to be weary in well doing for in due season we will reap if we faint not (see Galatians 6:9).

My friend, singer Kenny Marks, wrote a song that was one of the top songs on the Christian music charts entitled “The Party’s Over”. It talked about the effects of teen sex and how a little indiscretion destroyed two teens’ lives. Enjoyment of sin is short-lived. What happens when the season is over? You reap what you sow and that sin can affect you for the rest of your life! (See Galatians 6:7-8)

Can you see a pattern here? The world thinks one way; in fact many Christians are given to thinking as the world does because they have not heeded the need to renew the mind to God’s thoughts and ways. As Christians we can and should think at a higher level, which can only happen as we renew our minds and think God’s thoughts.

John 8:31-32, “Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, if you abide (Greek- permanent residence or continue) in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Unfortunately a lot of Christians know the truth, yet are bound. Why is that the case? They know the truth but do not continue or abide in the truth.

We are greatly blessed in North America where we have access to Christian books, tapes, TV etc. as compared to many nations where these tools are not available. We deceive ourselves when we hear the word of God time and again but do not act upon it. We are not changed because true transformation does not come by merely hearing the Word, but by living it; putting it into practice even if it means getting out of our comfort zones.

James 1:22 says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourself.” When we do not act upon the word of God we are deceiving ourselves, which in turn leads to apathy and hardness of heart.

Proverb 4:18-23 reads, “But the path of the just is like the shining sun, That shines even brighter unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; They do not know what makes them stumble. My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ears to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those that find them, And health to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.”

According to verse 18, the closer we get to the return of Jesus Christ the brighter out path gets. What makes our path brighter? Psalms 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” Psalm 119:130 says, “The entrance of your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.” According to these scriptures what is lighting our path? His Word, which will bring about more revelation, more miracles, signs and wonders! The wicked stumble because they do not have positive solutions for the situations they may find themselves surrounded by, because they do not walk in the light of the Word.

Proverbs 4:21 says, Do not let them (God’s words) depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart.” Do we as Christians really adhere to this truth? Some people complain that they received prayer for healing once, but healing was not manifested, hence they do not believe it is God’s will to heal. If we are truly keeping God’s Word in our heart then it will lead to a transformation of the physical circumstances. Unfortunately there are some people I should not even pray for, as I know that they do not desire to change their lifestyle and deal with issues that brought about the sickness or problems initially. What will prayer avail if individuals that know better, refuse to renew their mind to the word of God and change the very thing that opened the door to problems, sickness or demons? At the most a temporary cure! Sometimes the Lord will have me tell a person to press into something specific in the word of God for permanent change, healing and deliverance.

Proverbs 4:22 says, “For they (God’s word) are life to those who find them, And health (Hebrew-medicine) to all their flesh.” Thus the word of God is medicine to our flesh. In 1974 my mother was diagnosed with cancer. My parents called healing verses in the word of God the “Gospill.” Each day they confessed different promises in God’s word regarding healing over my mother. That is how my mother said she took the Gospill. The Gospill was life, medicine to her flesh. Her healing was not manifested instantly but soon the doctors were amazed, as they found no trace of cancer in her body. Today, many years later, she is alive, well and in very good physical condition. She is one of our main prayer warriors. This experience also taught me to stand on God’s word and about the power of renewing our mind to God’s word at a young age.

Proverbs 4:23 says “Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.” Many miss it in this area, as they do not keep their heart with all diligence. What if I chose not to clean my house on a regular basis, do the dishes, laundry etc? Pretty soon I will have a dirty unkempt home. The same analogy can be applied to our (spiritual) heart. If we chose to neglect our hearts, not tending to it, then it will gravitate towards evil and defeat. In Mark 7:15 Jesus says, “ There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man.”

Jesus said “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit. Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of Judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:33-37).

A tree will only produce what is within it. It’s the same with our heart or belief system! In terms of healing, if a person is constantly afflicted with sickness and disease, then there is a good chance sickness is in the person’s heart. The principle applies to poverty, depression, victory, health, joy, etc. Some Christians say they believe one way but continually experience the opposite. For the most part you will only live out what it is in your heart (what you really believe) whether good or bad. If you do not like what you are experiencing in life on a continual basis then begin to renew your mind to what God’s word says about your circumstances and let His word transform any negative circumstances in your life. Simply have the tenacity to believe what He says in His word is true and apply it in your life and you will experience His word at work for you eventually.

What is the foremost thing we hear everyday? Our own words (voice)! Jesus cautioned us to take heed to what we hear, for with the measure we hear, it will be measured back to us (see Mark 4:24). Jesus said “…For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). What is inside your heart will be spoken out, whether sickness, victory, defeat or prosperity. What is in your heart is your future. If we do not like what we see and hear then we need to change.

Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he….” In other words, we are what we think. Many desire to know what the future holds. Each and every one of us can know what is in our future. All we have to do is to take a deep look into our hearts. What picture is within us? That is what we are going to live each day. If we do not like what is within us, then we can change it by renewing our mind to the word of God. Once again Jesus said in verse 34 “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” We can tell what is in the heart by what comes out of the mouth, especially when our circumstances do not look good.

Ephesians 4:21-24, “If indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: That you put off’ concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.”

In these scriptures we see three essential actions to renew the mind. Firstly, putting off, secondly, renewed in the spirit of our mind and thirdly, putting on.

Often we are guilty of the willingness to put on, without putting off i.e. dealing with the old self with its thoughts and habits and soon enough, problems arise. Would it not be ridiculous that when a baby needs a diaper change, instead of changing the diaper, one just puts on a clean one over the messy dirty one? What happens? In a while there is a bigger mess to clean up than previously. Similarly renewing the mind is not merely adopting new thought patterns, but also entails completely giving up old ways of thinking that are detrimental to positive living. It is being renewed in the spirit of our mind, which in the Greek is the principle part of our mind, that will change our negative circumstances.

Every individual grows up with certain strongholds, negative or positive, that tend to govern that person’s reactions to circumstances in life. These are stored in the subconscious or spirit of your mind and manifest themselves in our reactions during various situations in life. Taking myself as an example, earlier when I would go through hard times, I would indulge in self pity, till I realized that I had to break this pattern of behavior and renew my mind to God’s word when trials came, responding in joy, which I have since done. With that attitude I now walk in victory over those circumstances that used to beat me up.

The children of Israel are a prime example of an entire generation that chose not to put off the old way of thinking. They wandered aimlessly for 40 years, despite the fact that God had promised them possession of the Promised Land. The entire generation except Joshua and Caleb had to pass away before the Israelites could take possession of the Promised Land. Why did this happen? Did God turn back on His promise? No! It was the disobedience, the negative mind-set and confession of the people that kept them in bondage. They had grown up in bondage as slaves in Egypt. God supernaturally delivered them from Egypt, now it was their responsibility to renew their minds to God’s promises, get rid of the slave mindset, believe in what God said they could do and possess the Promised Land, which they failed in doing.

They confessed that they were grasshoppers in the sight of their enemies, even though their enemies believed something entirely different and were in fear of them (see Numbers 13:30-33, 14:11, & Joshua 2:9-11). They were never able to possess the land. They never dealt with the slave mentality. In fact they often complained and wished themselves back in Egypt as slaves. They did not renew their minds to what God said they were and what God said they could do. Was God to blame for that? No, the Israelites were to blame for their own failure that brought about defeat and destruction. God supernaturally delivered them from Egypt but it was their job to renew their minds and get Egypt out of themselves. It is our job as believers IN CHRIST to renew our minds to what God says about us and what we are IN CHRIST.

~Experiencing Jesus!~

This is a continuation of the article “How Big is Your Jesus” that appeared in the summer issue of our Goodnews Magazine.

Would you like to experience Jesus in a much more powerful and meaningful way? This message was triggered by what Sharmila and I experienced during our recent trip to Moradabad, India. During the campaign many people who were healed testified of either seeing, hearing or being touched by Jesus. Never before have so many people testified of seeing, hearing or feeling Jesus touch them in our campaigns. Some felt His hand caress them, others experienced a current flow through their body, falling to the ground healed or changed.

This is an exciting time to be living and serving Christ. Those who choose to be hungry, passionate, humble and pliable will experience Jesus as He shows Himself in greater ways to reap the end time harvest of souls. This will all come by His grace alone. We cannot work it up or earn it. James 4:6 tells us who gets the grace, “But He gives MORE GRACE. Therefore he says: God resists the proud, but gives GRACE TO HE HUMBLE.” The more we understand humility, that it is not about us or our accomplishments, but it’s ALL ABOUT JESUS AND HOW BIG HE CAN BE IN OUR LIVES, the more we will experience Jesus in our personal affairs and ministry. Psalm 138:6 says though the LORD is on high, yet He regards the lowly; But the proud He knows from afar. One way we draw near to the living Christ is with humility (see James 4:6-8).

Notice what Jesus says in regard to experiencing Him in Matthew 11:28-30 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Sharmila and I cried out to experience the living Christ as we were preparing for our campaign in India. We realized that we were at a standstill in ministry and desired a greater measure of His manifested presence in our lives and ministry. We all need to recognize the times of spiritual stagnation in our lives and ask God for a fresh and greater experience with Christ, if we are to see greater miracles along with signs and wonders.

In the above verse Jesus invites all those who are heavy laden (Greek: overburdened with religious ceremony) to come unto Him. Our walk with the Lord can many times become that way. All we are doing each day is going through our religious ceremonies. We need a fresh touch from a living and active Christ. It will bring rest and success in life and ministry.

In verse 29 Jesus encourages us to take HIS YOKE (Greek: obligation) upon ourselves. What is that obligation? It is to learn from or to experience HIM. What will we experience or learn from Him? His life and nature: lowliness and humility. Humility is recognizing everyday in and of ourselves we don’t have IT; but HE DOES and we can tap into His joy, peace, love, faith, life and so much more, by placing our dependence on Him. Jesus says in John 15:5, “apart from Me you can do nothing.” That is why John the Baptist, said, “He must increase, but I must decrease”, when he saw Jesus. The more our lives are centered on Jesus, the more we will experience the living Christ in our midst. It is not about chasing or seeking “IT”: a feeling, manifestation or personal recognition. It is all in chasing and seeking after HIM. Jesus said in Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. The feelings, manifestations, blessings and honor will come when we decrease and allow the nature of Jesus Christ to come forth in us. Proverbs 22:4 says By humility and the fear of the LORD Are riches and honor and life. The fear of the Lord is reverence for His presence. Is there a reverence, hunger and awe for His presence in your life?

TRUE TRANSFORMATION

Many Christians desire to be used by God and want to experience His presence in a greater way, but instead have learned to cope and barely make it. This is not God’s desire. They would love to see their circumstances changed. Romans 12:2 says, “and do not be conformed (Greek: fashioned after or patterned after) this world, but be TRANSFORMED (Greek: change or metamorphosis) BY THE RENEWING OF YOUR MIND, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

One reason many have learned to cope and barely make it in life has been because they do not understand true transformation. True transformation does not come by merely studying God’s word and religious works. It comes by renewing your mind to God’s word, knowing who you are in Christ, by acting upon His word and experiencing HIS word firsthand.

Much of the New Testament from Romans onwards talks about the resurrected Christ in you and what you can accomplish with Christ active and alive in you. He is the living word of God. John 1:1-4,14 says, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men…And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

To experience Jesus we need to hunger for Him and His word. We need to put His words into action in order to experience His power that can change our life and the lives of those around us. Jesus said in John 8:31-32, “If you abide (Greek: continue or reside in) MY WORD you are my disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” His word is truth. (see John 17:17) To continue in God’s word means we have to DO IT and when we do it we can experience HIM (Jesus) transforming our circumstances. The facts or truth in the natural might say, ‘you are too broke’ or ‘you’ve been sick too long and you’ll always be sick’, or ‘you are a failure, you won’t make it’: but the truth: God’s living word says He will meet all your needs, by His stripes you were healed 2,000 years ago, you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. Reading, meditating and doing His word leads to true transformation and experiencing Jesus in our midst. Which form of truth are you adhering to, the natural truth, or spiritual truth (God’s word) that has the power to make you free?

Joshua 1:8 says This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Notice the prosperity and good success come only when we “DO IT” not just talk about it or read it.

Psalm 1:3 He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. Notice once again whatever HE DOES will prosper. We have to do His word to experience Christ and His word transforming our everyday circumstances.

James 1:22-25 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. If all we do is read God’s word and listen to teachings, but don’t put them into practice, then our walk with Christ will stagnate. Verse 22 says you deceive yourself. When we deceive ourselves we are deceiving our hearts, which leads to apathy and hardness of heart to the Gospel. Soon our senses are dulled and we no longer hear God’s rhema (spoken) word for our circumstances.

“Christ in you” desires to become active, alive and so much more real to you. He wants to transform you into His very image and let you be a partaker of His nature (2 Corinthians 3:18). By which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (2 Peter 1:4).

Just filling ourselves with God’s word, but not putting it into action can lead to pride and spiritual dryness that has no power to change the spiritual atmosphere around us. It is one thing to know about Jesus and His words, quite another to experience Him and His word. Many Christians know about Jesus and His word, but are not really knowing or experiencing Jesus personally for themselves. 1Corinthians 8:1 says, “Knowledge PUFFS UP, but love edifies (Greek: builds up). In Christian circles many have become content attending conferences and hearing God’s word but not doing it! All that does is puff one up with knowledge, but does not transform us. We need to go from head knowledge of God’s word to practical experience of it on a regular basis.

Begin hungering for Jesus’ manifested presence. Then allow His word to stir and transform your life and those you come into contact with. The less the focus is on you and the more it is on Christ in you and His word, the greater your experience of Jesus.

Many wonder what is the key in the New Testament to experiencing Jesus Christ. All we have to do is look at the early church to find that answer. Paul said in Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. The Greek word for salvation means forgiveness, healing, deliverance, protection, prosperity and much more. If irrespective of the circumstances we keep presenting the Gospel (Good News) of Jesus Christ it will be the Power of God in our midst to experience whatever is needed. Paul also said in 1 Thessalonians 2:2 But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much conflict. Nothing can prevent Jesus from manifesting His power in our midst unless we cease presenting the Gospel or good news of Jesus Christ. Isaiah knew what he was talking about. I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem;
They shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent(Isaiah 62:6).

While in India the Lord spoke to me about sharing on successful spiritual warfare from our position IN CHRIST that produces lasting results. We put this into practice whenever we travel to India. Overemphasis on spiritual warfare and demons can lead to weariness and keep us from seeing Christ in our midst. It is not about the enemy and what he can do, it is all about Jesus and what He accomplished 2,000 years ago at Calvary. Jesus did say though in Mark 3:27 No one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house. He also mentioned in Matthew 16:19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Binding and loosing is a scriptural way to change the spiritual atmosphere. Some believe that we need to bind and focus on the enemy (demon) over an area, while others just ignore the enemy. Both these ways can lead to ineffectiveness in kingdom work for Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:11 says lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. On one hand we are not to be ignorant of demonic devises and schemes. What is the key to effective spiritual warfare and advancing God’s Kingdom? Just take a look at the early church and we will find the key. They did not focus much on the demons over a particular area nor did they ignore the demonic realm. Paul said in 2 Thessalonians 2:18 Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan (demons) hindered us.

Where is the balance? Where is the key to advancing the kingdom of God on this earth? It is in presenting Jesus and His Gospel (Good News). If the Gospel goes forth it is the power of God unto salvation and strongholds will be broken. I believe in using authority over demonic forces in an area. I would say about 1% to 2% of my prayer time is focused on taking authority over the enemy. The remaining 98% of my prayer time is focused on Jesus, worship to Him, His power, complete victory over every demonic power, and praying that His Gospel (Good News) will go forth in an area.

Paul’s advice in combating demonic powers

Ephesians 6:10-20 gives effective direction on spiritual warfare and how to advance the kingdom of God Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles(Greek: lies and strategies) of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. First our strength needs to come by our position IN CHRIST. Putting on the armor of God is simply putting on what we have IN CHRIST and what He can do through you and me. Notice our weapons in verse 14-17. These have been given to us as Jesus won the victory 2,000 years ago. I am to stand in Him, walking in the victory. He already won the battle. Colossians 2:15 says Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it. We just enforce the enemy’s defeat.

Verse 12 talks about the enemy we are fighting. We cannot ignore demons. However notice it says nothing about binding demons. Paul tells us to stand against his lies, strategies and methods. We do that by applying the truth of God’s word. It wins each time. In verse 18 & 19 Paul talks about prayer in the spirit and that UTTERANCE WOULD BE GIVEN. Given for what? That he could boldly open his mouth to present one thing: to make known the mystery of the Gospel, good news of Jesus Christ, which is the power of God to Salvation. Whenever the Gospel goes forth in power, it is because of the manifested presence of Jesus. When the Gospel goes forth demonic strongholds come down. That is why my focus is not on demonic forces and what they are doing. My focus is Jesus and what He has already done 2,000 years ago. This is how one experiences Jesus, and cities like Moradabad, India are shaken for Christ.

When the early church experienced setbacks, they did not spend time binding the demons. Rather they increased their focus on Jesus, what He accomplished and who they were in Christ. After being beaten for their faith, and told to cease talking about Jesus, look at their response in Acts 5:40-42 And they agreed with him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ. Read Acts 4,5 and 16. You will see how the early church furthered the Gospel in spite of tremendous opposition. They just kept speaking of the Good News of Jesus.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 16:19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind(Greek: forbid) on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose(Greek: allow) on earth will be loosed in heaven. This is the key to unlocking the kingdom of heaven. It has more to do with loosing and allowing then it does with binding and forbidding. In the original Greek it refers to a principle called ‘mirror imaging’. In other words, reflecting heaven on earth. There are things we can do from our position of being IN CHRIST that affect and can literally change the spiritual atmosphere on earth. Ephesians 2:6 says God raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places IN CHRIST JESUS. Why not do spiritual warfare from our position of being in Christ? Notice Ephesians 1:22 And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church. If all things are under Christ’s feet and I am seated with Him then all things are under my feet as well. If I am operating from my position in Christ with the enemy under my feet I do not give demons a whole lot of attention. I do not ignore them but they are not my focus as they have been defeated. My focus is Jesus Christ, what He accomplished and proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. Operating from this perspective literally brings Christ’s manifested presence in our midst, which is reflecting heaven on earth. Thus we experience Jesus Christ just like the early church did in the book of Acts!

Special note: I would like to point out that much of these recent articles were triggered by messages that I have heard Peter Youngren teaching on Jesus and grace for the past several years. Peter has led millions to Christ. You can see the effects of this message in his life and ministry; his ministry is shaking nations for Jesus. If you would like more of this kind of teaching visit his website: www.peteryoungren.org to order additional materials.

“Looking unto (Greek- eyes riveted on) Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who bore such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your soul.” (Hebrews 12:2-3)

I hope this article will cause you to ponder the question of ‘How big is your Jesus’. How big or small your revelation of Jesus, in any area of your life, will determine the quality of life you live. Your revelation of Jesus, who He is and what He can do through and for you is key to success in life and ministry.

Verse 2 of the above scripture says, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of your faith… Where is your focus and attention, or what is your focus? Many believers are overwhelmed by their problems. Their focus often is ‘me and my problems’. If that is your focus you need to readjust your focus. Many behold their huge problems and out of the corner of their eye catch a small glimpse of Jesus. If we first and foremost behold Jesus, then see our problems out of the corner of our eye, with our peripheral vision, our problems will be so small in comparison.

In the Amplified version Hebrew 12:2-3 reads, “looking away (from all that will distract) to Jesus…. Just think of Him….consider it all in comparison with your trials.” If you look away from your problems and focus on Jesus your problems will become tiny and easy to conquer because Christ in you is at work on your behalf. He is on your side! Romans 8:32 says “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”

How big is your Jesus in some of the predominant areas you have to deal with in this lifetime, like your physical and mental health a well as finances. I would like to share some insight on how your revelation of Jesus can help in these areas of your personal life.

Looking to Jesus as your Source Financially

Just out of High School and living on my own I learned these valuable principles that have helped me in life and ministry. Once while working as a parking lot attendant, I was listening to a Bible teacher on the radio. Many times during the teaching he said, “Get your eyes off the problem and get them on the answer, God’s Word!” I realized that the word was for me and decided to do just that. Little did I know that I would lose my job later in the afternoon. I went to God’s word for the answer and kept my eyes focused on Christ. I came across Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” I felt the best way to seek His kingdom would be to expand it on the earth by sharing Jesus with others and as I did I believed He would meet my needs for another job. I went to the lake and led a man to Christ that day. He told me about a job where they were hiring and paying more than my previous job. By keeping my eyes on the answer, Jesus and His word my need was met.

Acts 17:28 says, “For IN HIM we live and move and have our being….” God desires to have permanent residence or control of every area of our life so we can be all He has for us. He even wants to take control of our finances. Malachi 3:10-11(a) talks about giving our tithes and offerings, and what will happen when we do,