On The Eagle's Wings

Oh that we could all read God's word with minds that are unadulterated by the doctrines of men! This morning I was suddenly reminded of the time when one of our young children first heard of the doctrine of eternal damnation and the torments of hell. Much to my surprise she immediately began laughing hysterically and couldn't stop. She honestly believed I was making it up. I finally convinced her that there were indeed many who believe that God will one day burn people in a place called hell forever. I had to teach her that it is ok to laugh at the thought of it, but not ok to laugh at people who believe different things than we do! I was immediately filled with joy for her sake and simultaneously grieved for all the children who have had fear instilled in them because of the doctrine of eternal damnation.

I know many who have found it difficult to connect intimately with their heavenly Father because of authoritarian, abusive, and distant earthly fathers. I also know that many have come to Christianity out of fear. I believe there are also those who stand afar off, afraid to hear God for themselves, because of this fear inducing doctrine. I know without a shadow of a doubt in my own heart that God desires to love us into obedience just as we would our own children. Having said that, I also know that my children need correction more often than I would like to have to correct them. It is no different in God's family, we all need correction from time to time and we have a faithful Father who is committed to raising up mature children. Those who are led of the Spirit are sons (teknon--meaning 'mature sons') of God.(Rom. 8)

As much as I am thrilled that my children do not carry that fear around with them, I am also heartbroken for so many others who continue to hear this message. That is hugely motivating for me in terms of getting this message out. If it grieves me, I am certain it grieves my Father even more.

I have encountered those who are so offended at the thought that God would save all mankind. I find this beyond comprehension! I do understand though, that it takes time to study and seek the Lord for myself when I am confronted with a new thought. We are not to blindly accept something new to us without searching the scriptures and seeking the Lord for ourselves in order to discern the truth. Scripture makes it clear that Christ, the anointing in us, is our teacher.

1 John 2:27 But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.

Religious Ridicule
I have encountered teachers and writers who come across with a spirit of judgement, ridicule, and arrogance. This is nothing new, I am prone to fleshly behavior too, and have had to learn humility in that regard myself. I admit I have a hard time receiving anything that is brought forth in that way and tend at this point to move away from those teachings and teachers very quickly. I personally believe it best to steer clear of this type of teaching because of it's power to contaminate and draw us in. I pray the Lord will guard me from bringing anything to His beloved in a way that is condescending or condemmning in any way.

Christ is still being formed in each one of us, so I pray He will give us all the grace to reject what is not of His nature and to accept what is. If a word is prophetic it will draw Christ out of you with it's love because it is spoken with grace and truth. I firmly believe that the word of the Lord through me will sound just like the voice of the Lord when He speaks to me. I have yet to experience any condemnation, ridicule, or arrogance in His voice.