IN HIS TIME
PART 4

March-April, 2006

A Book About 
The Set Times
 Of The Lord

Joan Whitacre Royer

DEDICATION OF BOOK

I dedicate this book to the Lord Jesus Christ,
my best Friend.
May it bring Him glory
in the lives of others as they read it.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU

A special thank you to my daughter, Beth,
for inviting me to stay in her lovely quiet home
during the months of writing this book,
for letting me use her computer and printer,
for putting this book on the internet,
and for being such encouraging company.
Thanks, Beth!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The author, Joan (“Jo Ann”) Royer, has a background in writing from childhood on, has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and English, and a Master’s Degree in Education. She was involved in discipling others through the Discipleship Training program at a Southern Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri, for 18 years. Then the Lord guided her to take a break from that and spend much time developing an even stronger and more intimate relationship with Him in her quiet times. During this time she worked as a secretary at United Methodist churches in Columbia, Missouri. 

After four years of developing this more intimate relationship, He lead her to begin writing her first book, Thoughts and Stories: On a Life God Leads, Guides, and Protects. He even gave her the title for the book and gradually, as she listened and wrote, He lead her in writing the whole book. 

Previous to this writing she had collected stories about ways God had impacted the lives of people. This was in response to His guidance from Psalm 96:3 that says: “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” She knew He wanted her to declare His Marvelous Deeds and share these deeds with others by writing them. All this came together in her book series called Thoughts And Stories, Books 1-5.

She currently has eight books (plus this new series) which can be found on her web site at www.doveministry.net. They are titled Thoughts and Stories, books 1-5, and Things The Lord Has Shown Me, books 1-3. This book is Part Four in a series called In His Time. This series starts with Part One from August, September, and October of 2005. Part two covers November-December, 2005. Part three covers January-February, 2006. Part four covers March-April, 2006.  More parts in this series will continue on with around 1-2 months covered in each part depending on how the Spirit guides her to write.

She retired from her secretarial position in Columbia in 2004 and now lives in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, with her daughter, Beth, where the Lord has led her to set apart her days to listen to Him and write what He shows her. 

Writing is her passion and the way God is leading her to share with others what God has been doing in her life. Her desire is to encourage and mentor others through her writings--in the way that many in the Body of Christ have taught and mentored her through their writings.

Thoughts from the Holy Spirit are written in italics.

IN HIS TIME

PART FOUR

MARCH-APRIL, 2006

JOURNAL 3-1-06 Wednesday

Today is Ash Wednesday and begins the first day of Lent. Today also begins the FACEDOWN40 days of prayer and fasting (March 1 to April 9) for a great awakening like at Azusa Street 100 years ago now on April 9th. We are asking God for a great awakening in our universities, among our children, in the cultural power centers of our nation, and among all people. We also are praying and fasting for God to contend with the spirit of Islam and the Prince of Persia so that thousands of Muslims can be brought into the knowledge and salvation of Christ Jesus. We are also praying for the protection of Israel and that they receive Jesus in their hearts. This is being sponsored by Mike Bickle, Francis Frangipane, Lou Engle, and Dutch Sheets. They are asking that a million people sign up to pray along with them. Information regarding this can be found at www.facedown40.com. This ends on Palm Sunday, April 9th, but the Lord is leading me to continue until Easter Sunday on April 16th which ends Lent. There are devotionals, articles, and a description of this fasting call that can be found on the web site mentioned. The Lord has led me to fast/give up desserts during this time period.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. (Psalm 34:4)

A DREAM ABOUT A CHURCH WITH TABLES, WATERMELON, AND LOAVES OF BREAD
* * * * * * * *

In this dream I walked on a sidewalk around a round-shaped street area to the opposite side of the circle. I watched carefully so I would recognize where I was going and know my way back to the place where I started. It was almost as if I could remember having many previous dreams where I couldn't find my way or find anything familiar. This time I was going to be extra careful.

I entered a building that was a church. In the entranceway I saw many tables there with nothing on them. I may have seen some women across the area from me, but no one spoke to me, nor I to them. I just observed. I walked among the tables to another room and saw a table with huge wedges of watermelon sitting on them. These wedges were about 18" high and 24" wide - huge! I also saw in another place that some melon was being taken out by a spoon and there were some black seeds in the spoon with the melon. In another place there was a table piled high with wrapped loaves of bread. The stack was higher than my head.

It seemed like this was a fruit luncheon for ladies. I made my way out to the entranceway among the tables again. I only saw these things, but didn't interact with anyone else. I'm not even sure I saw anyone else.

This building seems to represent my church (Christ Triumphant Church). To get there I walked/journeyed on a spiritual pathway through Christian faith including following the gospel to salvation. The walk was around a round-shaped street and this shows it as a spiritual path with grace, mercy, compassion and forgiveness involved. By following this path carefully I came to my church. Inside I saw tables representing communion, agreement, and covenant together. I saw huge wedges of watermelon symbolizing fruit of the Spirit and fruit in ministry. This fruit (watermelon) included water (Spirit), seeds (Word), sweet (strength), green (life) and red (passion). It was accessed with a spoon which was used to scoop out the fruit. That typifies that which one spoons out to others and/or that which one takes in and included seeds of the Word of God. The many loaves of bread symbolize life, the Word of God, doctrine, covenant, or provision. Again, as with the watermelon, there was a huge supply available. Since I was the only participant and only observed things in this church, I believe it is a prophetic picture of what is in my church. It assures me that the provision inside this church is huge in size and amount. It shows that my pathway to this church came by a carefully followed spiritual pathway.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. 
(Psalm 34:7)

A DREAM ABOUT OLD DELAPIDATED HOUSES BUILT ON TOP OF EACH OTHER
* * * * * * * *

In this dream I was driving around looking at houses. I saw several houses which were constructed with a house on top of another house. The upper house could be entered by going up outside stairs. The lower house could be entered by walking under the stairway and behind it to the entrance doors. The windows were broken out and looked in poor condition--gray/tan color. The buildings didn't look lived in, except for one upper house where a woman was out on her front porch. It seemed like this living area was unsafe and prone to vandalism. I was explaining to someone about this type of house (one on top of another).

This seems to be prophetic picture giving information regarding houses. Since a house often represents one's self, this may be a picture of my looking at the houses which represent my ancestors and their sins, their needing revival, their neglect of their own spiritual house, etc. The houses being one top of each other may represent this going back more than one generation. Since there was a series of such houses in the dream, all beside each other, this may represent many ancestral relatives being in this poor condition spiritually. The stairs represent steps in a process, sometimes including the concept of time. The windows being broken may represent their vision broken, lack of truth, lack of revelation, being exposed, lack of vision, and the opportunity for a thief (the enemy) to enter. The one woman on the front porch may refer to someone in the family line who was open to a vision of the future, was open to others, and who had a welcoming attitude. I could imagine that might represent my Mom, Aunt Lillie, and/or Mom's side of the family. This dream may be giving me a prophetic picture of the poor condition spiritually of my ancestors (especially Dad's side of the family), and therefore my spiritual journey started with a lack of strong spiritual roots. My siblings and I may have already traveled much farther along than our ancestors did spiritually. We may have traveled just as far as some other people, who right now have reached a greater spiritual dimension, but since we started farther back, we aren't going to get as far along as those others (like Bill Johnson, etc.). But, for us, we may have traveled just as far when we consider where we began. This fits with what the Spirit has been telling me--that I shouldn't judge my degree of overcoming against others because only God knows how much each person has overcome and where he started from.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing. (Psalm 34:9)

JOURNAL 3-3-06 Friday

A DREAM ABOUT PUTTING A FIREPLACE IN MY HOME
* * * * * * * *

In this dream the setting was my childhood home. My parents and I were looking into making the living room larger and extending the north wall back farther. We were discussing possibilities for how to rearrange the furniture after that was done. Then we talked about possibly getting a gas fireplace for that north wall and I was thinking about how to rearrange the furniture to center around that fireplace. Mostly I was doing the action, but perhaps with some of their thoughts or interests involved.

Later we (mostly I) were rearranging the dining room furniture. It seemed like the dining room was stuffed with things so one could hardly walk there. We were having a neighbor boy come over for a birthday party, so we were trying to make room around the table for him. To make that space, I was moving lots of things that were pushed up against the dining room table and making space around it. Some of the moms brought their children early to the birthday party and we weren't quite ready yet. I looked into the kitchen and saw one of the moms there. I said they were early.

Song in my mind during and after this dream: Joseph Garlington singing, 

I will sing unto the Lord with all of my heart;
I will sing unto the Lord with all of my soul;
I will sing unto the Lord with all of my strength
I will sing unto the Lord with all of my might.

With wholehearted devotion
I will praise the Lord.
With wholehearted devotion
I will praise the Lord.

This dream deals with me and my past relationship to my parents and family. It takes place in the living room symbolizing communion/conversation, that which is revealed, truth exposed, and everyday affairs. It symbolizes the revelation of what took place when I was a child. I am going there in this dream and changing things. I am seeking for space to move around in and seeking to have my heart be seen and felt there and things changed in relation to my heart.

The dining room symbolizes a place of fellowship, a place to partake of spiritual food. Again I was moving things to make more space in this room. This may mean I am making changes so there can be better fellowship and spiritual food there. A table is a place of communion and provision. So I am moving obstacles out of the way so there is more room in me for communion with others. The boy may represent me, the child in me, and the birthday may represent something being birthed in me now. The song seems to indicate that these are positive dreams that I am praising God for.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry. (Psalm 34:15)

JOURNAL 3-7-06 Tuesday

Do You want me to listen to You now, Lord?

Yes, I have things to tell you.

I know you are sick today and don't feel very well. I want you to know that tomorrow I have a birthday surprise for you in regard to this sickness. You will see the surprise and know that is what I mentioned to you. You will soon be much better. What did I teach you during this time? To praise Me in the midst of all things, all circumstances. 

Yes, I taught you well how to listen to Me, and write what I speak to you, back then (~1976) when Gordon Binning taught you about how to listen to Me. I made sure you were there and received that teaching, because I had plans for using that writing you would do. Now you see what has grown from that original teaching. And you have that method of listening you were taught confirmed today through the teaching by Mark Burlinson on hearing Me.

He mentioned sharing what you write with someone else. You can now do that on Monday nights in your Prophecy Group each week. Do not be timid about doing that. I gave you that group for this reason…to share what I tell you when it is appropriate.

Happy birthday, My child! You will be 70 years old in a few hours! Amazing, isn't it? Don't try to hide your age; be blessed that I have given you those years and blessed you in them. Give Me the credit for your age.

That's all I wanted to say tonight. I wanted you to know I love you, and I am aware of you all the time and what you are doing and thinking. I will never leave you or forsake you. My love is steadfast.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. (Psalm 35:1)

JOURNAL 3-8-06 Wednesday

My 70th birthday! It's by the grace and favor of God that I have lived this long and I thank the Lord for that! My two daughters each gave me a beautiful card remembering my birthday, and Beth is taking me out to eat to celebrate it besides giving me gifts. Darlene just brought me a single red rose for my birthday. That was so nice of her! I do enjoy red roses! She was God's messenger to bring that to me. Thank You, Lord! And I just got a phone call from Samantha to wish me a happy birthday. That was thoughtful of her. It's nice to be remembered!

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. (Proverbs 4:6-7)

There are two things the Lord is having me do during this "retirement" season of my life (retirement from the paid work force): 1. writing what He leads me to write, and 2. interceding as He leads me. The intercession He is having me do right now is with the citywideprayernetwork.com and with the facedown40.com. 

The citywide prayer network prayer projects are: 
•	My Local church, pastors and leadership, the congregation, unity among the people
•	Body of Christ in Lee's Summit, the move of God upon them, repentance and forgiveness where needed, readiness for revival and the move of God, unity and appreciation of differences, Word of God spoken boldly, hunger for God
•	City of Lee's Summit, move of God there, God's presence evident, asking God to come, souls being saved, youth being nurtured, business community, local government, schools

The facedown 40 strategic prayer initiative includes praying about:
•	The menacing threat of Islamic global domination
•	The souls of millions of Muslims
•	Restraining the spirit of jihad
•	Shifting of the Iraq war 
•	Security and salvation of Israel
•	The Lord will rise upon us and His glory will appear upon us. Nations come to our light and kings to the brightness of our rising (Isaiah 60:2-3)
•	Global awakening among the youth and universities
•	2006 be a glorious year of "heaven on earth" and a year where "He is coming"
•	Revival, for the Great Awakening for now
•	Righteousness and justice, a third pro-abortion Justice replaced with a godly Justice who loves mercy, executes justice and walks humbly with his God
•	Legalized abortion removed

In an update on the facedown 40 fasting, Francis Frangipane said:

"Remember, the Lord God does not want us worrying about the future; He desires that, through His Spirit, we create the future through the knowledge of His will and prayer. This is the essence of prayer: in every area of conflict we desire God's kingdom to manifest on earth as it is in heaven. Approach this time with faith, with visionary sacrifice and heartfelt intercession, and we shall see the hand of God move mightily upon the earth."

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4)

A DREAM ABOUT BEING IN A HOUSE ON FIRE
* * * * * * * *

I was in a house that was on fire. I saw someone in it and told them to stand still until I could get to them--like I was a fireman.

In an earlier dream, I was at a church. I was to sign the records of attendance that were kept to show who was there. I looked at the attendance sheets and tried to decide where to sign them.

That's the way I see you now, Joan, as one on fire for Me. Your house is you, and you are on fire for Me and watching to see who else is in this "house of fire" with you. The "house of fire" refers to revival and being wholly sold out to My Spirit moving in them. The attendance record shows who is attending this revival at church (the Body of Christ). You verify their participation with your signature.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. 
(Psalm 37:5-6)
JOURNAL 3-9-06 Thursday

A DREAM ABOUT MEETING AN INVISIBLE PERSON
* * * * * * * *

I was at a church trying to relax and have my quiet time (hear God). I saw some people meeting to rehearse singing music together. One lady started singing in harmony with the pastor, then other people gradually came and joined them, so I realized the group was a large ensemble. They seemed very gifted, not only in singing together, but in individual instruments some of them played. One lady played the marimba or xylophone. 

Then I heard someone playing the piano somewhere in the building. I saw a child, along with someone who was invisible to me. I could see stuff around the outline of her shape, but could not see her body, just saw through it. I spoke to her (the invisible one) and she talked to me, but I had difficulty understanding some of her words. I asked her name. She said her mom was Cyd (Sid?) Campbell and it seemed she said her name was Salt. 

As we were talking I stepped under a place where warm water was leaking down from the ceiling (like we were in the kitchen) and it dripped on me. I stepped out of the dripping and we watched it drip on the floor. I had the feeling she was involved with maintenance for the building due to the way she looked at that leak.

The church may represent my own church, CTC. I saw myself in this church building trying to relax and have my time of listening to God. As I did this I saw those worshipping God from the heart and prophesying. The group worshipping started with the pastor, and others were gradually added until it grew to be a large ensemble or group. They seemed to be very gifted in prophecy also as well as worship.

While in this building I heard someone playing piano which symbolizes prophesying, ministering in the gifts of the Spirit, and worship. Then I saw a child come into the room along with an invisible person whom I thought was a woman. I thought she had probably been the one playing the piano (prophesying). So the one prophesying was invisible. This could mean she represents the Holy Spirit, who is invisible, who gives me the thoughts/words of prophecy. I tried to talk to her as if I could see her and she talked to me too. This is what I do to the Holy Spirit--talk to Him even though He is invisible. The name given me could be a man's name or a woman's name, both. I just thought of this invisible person as a woman. She was holding a child's hand. That child may well represent me. This person seems to represent the Holy Spirit being with me as He prophecies thoughts to me. Sometimes I can't hear Him totally clearly, but sometimes I do hear Him well also. This person is very real but I just can't see Him.

In regard to his (or her) name: the spiritual meaning of Cyd is righteous. For Campbell the inherent meaning is beautiful field, the spiritual meaning is consistent. For Salt: Jesus said we are the salt of the earth. It symbolizes seasoning, preservative, or covenant. So this invisible person is parented by a righteous one who is like a beautiful field and is consistent. His name characterizes what He is, so He is salt which symbolizes a seasoning and preservative in the earth, and we are told by Jesus to be that too. He also can represent covenant and we are the people of the covenant with God.
The water dripping on my head symbolizes the spirit dripping slowly into me as Mark Burlinson described prophecy (naba) as being like water which bubbles up a little at a time until it becomes a stream of the Spirit moving through me. I also saw it dripping into the church building so it could represent that happening inside the church, CTC, also. This invisible person, the Holy Spirit, seemed to be in maintenance. This shows Him maintaining what happens in the church.

This dream is about me and my relationship with God. I am observing things happening within my church and happening to me. 

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. (Psalm 37:7)

JOURNAL 3-12-06 Sunday

A DREAM ABOUT CHILDREN GETTING ON BUSES
* * * * * * * *

We were in an area where children lined up to get on school buses to go home. Some of us adults were there to help the children do that correctly.

This group of children represents "the church" that was training together, learning together, working together during a training time. Since they were getting ready to go home, this represents getting ready to go to heaven which is their real home after the training time here on earth. Adults were those who taught, helped, counseled, and guided the children during the training time. This represents those of us doing that, a group of us. The adults represent those who are older in their Christian journey, those who have gone far enough to learn some things and are now imparting that to those younger in the faith.

This dream is a picture to show you that you are one of those older in the faith with something to impart to those younger. Recognize this as a picture to encourage you to do that. Share with others as I lead you to do that, mostly one-on-one, in small groups, by phone, and quietly - as you like to share. I want you to see yourself with something of value to share now. You came here to CTC to learn a lot, and you have learned a lot. Now I want to use you in one-on-one ministry of sharing as I lead you. It's called the gift of exhortation and the gift of shepherding or pastoring. That's where I now want you to be, Joan.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land…the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace. (Psalm 37:9, 11)

JOURNAL 3-13-06 Monday

(Reading the book The Supernatural Power of a Transformed Mind, page 30, by Bill Johnson)

"God is changing the way Christians think and the so-called impossible. He is teaching us to work hand-in-hand with the Kingdom so the reality of heaven comes crashing into earthly problems and overwhelms them. The results are astonishing miracles, great victories over the enemy, healing, deliverance, revelation, and more."

Lord, this is what my heart yearns for! This is what I want: "the reality of heaven coming into earthly problems and overwhelming them…miracles, victories, healing, deliverance, revelation and more.

Yes, and I put that yearning and longing in you. I want that for you too, My child. It is part of My love displayed in your life. Keep yearning!

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The days of the blameless are known to the Lord, and their inheritance will endure forever. In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty. 
(Psalm 37:18-19)

A DREAM ABOUT SETTING UP A FINAL EXAM SCHEDULE
* * * * * * * *

I was trying to set up the time schedule for my final exams. I had 1 course exam written on my list but I didn't remember what other courses I was supposed to take.

What do you think this refers to, Joan?

I think it refers to the time for my final exams is now or soon…this means to me that my days left on earth are limited to only a little left. I am almost finished with the coursework I came to earth to learn. There is only one final exam scheduled for me on my schedule card list. That is the only one I know of. If there are other exams I am to take, I don't know what they are. 

Well, you are right. What you think is correct. You are nearing your final exam time and it is on your scheduled list. Only I know what course the exam is over. I schedule the exam and I tell you when it is done. When it is done, you come back up to heaven to be with Me. Do not be afraid of the exam. Just follow Me step by step and I will walk with you through it--as I have walked with you through all of your life. Yes, one of the questions we will talk about is whether you have learned to love God and love others during your training time on earth. Have you, Joan?

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand. (Psalm 37:23-24)

JOURNAL 3-14-06 Tuesday

A DREAM ABOUT SORTING SHAPES AND COLORS AND BUYING ICE CREAM FOR CHILDREN USING HUGE SILVER COINS
* * * * * * * *

The setting was on a ship. I worked with children and showed Beth how I would show the children about matching colors and shapes with wooden toy pieces. We all got in line to buy ice cream treats, then sat in the chairs and tables of the children to eat them. The coins I used to buy the ice cream were 2 very large silver coins (about 4" diameter) and a nickel. I also paid for the food for 2 children besides the ice cream. When I awoke the song in my head was: "Better is one day in your house than a thousand elsewhere."

The ship refers to the church. It impacts large numbers of people in the sea of humanity. The children were learners in the church. I was showing my daughter how to help others match things in their spiritual life, how to put the right spiritual pieces together according to color and shape, according to what they look like. Colors and shapes are important to get together right in this dream. So it seems I am modeling for my daughter (referring to those who view me as a mother figure) the right viewing, matching and putting together of spiritual things.

An ice cream parlor applies to opportunities to share one's spirituality with others. Buying ice cream treats may here refer to buying for the children something spiritual they can eat and take inside them and carry with them. They are eaten while resting (chairs) and communing (tables) together in this church setting. 

Silver coins symbolize revelation knowledge. Since these were extremely large coins they represent great revelation knowledge that is used to purchase the treats for the children. The significance of using two silver coins may be these divide, judge, separate or discern for these children, or they may indicate multiplication through these treats being bought. The nickel may refer to being enabled to reach the goal for the items bought…to impart revelation knowledge and spiritual insight and understanding to others.

My paying for the food (besides the dessert treat) for two children could refer to what I paid to give food to my two daughters. That food may represent work, and the work of God, and spiritual nourishment. That spiritual nourishment includes being "in your house" (in the Lord's house) as indicated by the song.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed. (Psalm 37:25-26)

A DREAM ABOUT LIVING IN A GARAGE WITH A DOOR THAT OPENED AUTOMATICALLY EVEN AFTER I SHUT IT
* * * * * * * *

Later: I was in a house where I lived in the garage part. When I shut the door automatically, it would reopen by itself. I knew I needed to get that fixed so it wouldn't remain open, and outside people could just walk in and steal my purse. 

I lived in a house (representing me) in a garage (which represents a place of rest or stored energy). The door represents an entranceway, a new opportunity, a way, or a portal. When I closed that new opportunity, it opened again by itself, without my causing it. Since my purse represents my treasure, my heart, my identity, something precious or valuable to me, then my fear of having this door open was a concern about losing my identity as I know it now. This may show a concern about being open to new opportunities.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. (Psalm 40:1)

A DREAM ABOUT TRYING TO TRAIN MY DAUGHTERS TO MAKE RIGHT DECISIONS IN LIFE
* * * * * * * *

I went into a part of the house I was in and met with my 2 children. They seemed to be about 5 and 8 years old. I was trying to talk to them about how to make decisions when other people tried to get them to join them in activities they weren't sure were right for them. I was part-way through talking to them and we got interrupted by other people coming into the room. I tried to find a private place for us to continue talking, but the smallest child seemed to be gone and I didn't see her anymore. The largest child was still in the house. I tried to talk to her, but found myself crawling through a tunnel-like space that turned to the right to get into her room. Then some other girls came and started talking to her, so we weren't alone to talk.

My house refers to me and my family. The children seem to refer to my two daughters and my concern for and wanting to help them make right decisions. I desired to teach and train them while they were young, before they faced the decisions of later life.  This teaching didn't get finished and I was trying to find the oldest child to continue this training. A tunnel represents an alternative route or a way of discovery. That fits with my seeking to continue helping train my oldest daughter along life's spiritual pathway. Many things came that interrupted that training. 

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. (Psalm 40:3)

JOURNAL 3-15-06 Wednesday

MESSAGE DURING QUIET TIME

It's a daily walk by faith, walking with Me, trusting in Me. That's what you are in right now. Each day the faith comes for that day as you look to Me for it. As you reach out in your thoughts and focus on Me, then talk to Me, then listen to Me…your faith increases a notch more. It increases and increases each day that you live and walk by faith. So walking by faith is very important for your maturing and growth.

I would wish for you great faith, Joan. Great faith prepares you for the difficulties and troubles that arise just because you live on the earth right now in a time/season of trouble. There is trouble all around you, yet you look to Me by faith for daily protection…for you and your "prayer bundle"--the group of people you pray for each day. That is increasing your faith, and blessing/protecting them also. I count this as great gain, Joan, in your heavenly record.

And coming to Me each day in quiet focus upon Me…I count that as great gain also in your heavenly record. That heavenly record is your treasure chest up here in heaven that is filling and filling, more and more each day. Be glad about this. It is like a heavenly bank account that you may draw on while on earth, and later while in heaven.

Yes, that's what I said, and that's the truth. Know it. I come to you to tell you the truth, as I am the Truth. And My Spirit brings you into all truth as you focus on Me. 

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust. (Psalm 40:4)

JOURNAL 3-16-06 Thursday

A DREAM ABOUT REHEARSING WITH A CHOIR
* * * * * * * *

The setting of this dream was in a church. I met with the woman choir director and she told me to sing with the choir for rehearsal that day. I thought she said to sing the solo part, but I wasn't sure. So I went to rehearsal. I picked up a hymnal that was made up of two hymnals that were reduced in size and then taped together so they could both be held in one hand. I tore some of the tape holding them together, then decided the owner wouldn't want that done, so I didn't finish tearing them apart. The director came in and just rehearsed the background music to the solo, but didn't call on me or anyone else to do the solo. I looked at the solo music and saw that it was very very difficult to sing and wouldn't be easily sight-read. Later I went to her office because I wanted to tell her that I wouldn't do the solo. But she wouldn't look at me or give me eye contact. There were others around talking to her, so I didn't want to interrupt that. Then I heard her explain that she was doing that particular song at another church she was also directing, and she had someone there who had been working on the solo for weeks. 
The setting was in a church so that could refer to the Church universal or to my specific church or congregation. The choir director may refer to that one leading worship of God, the Holy Spirit. That person asked me to come to the choir rehearsal, which would refer to joining in the worship at church. 

A hymnal has spiritual songs printed in it that we use to sing from. These two hymnals were reduced in size, made smaller, less easy to read, but easier to hold in one hand. The two could stand for multiplication or division. It could also stand for judging, separating, or discerning. Perhaps this refers to discerning that the praise/worship was reduced in size and hard to see. I started to take the 2 hymnals apart, but changed my mind since I didn't want to upset the person these hymnals belonged to. The idea comes that these two hymnals may symbolize two churches I used to attend whose worship was small in size. 

Asking me to sing a solo could refer to asking me to do something by myself with no one else singing it or doing it with me. The solo part in the music looked next to impossible to sing, especially not by sight-reading. I feared that I would be put on the spot if called upon to do that. That seems to refer to the Spirit asking me to do something which I couldn't do by myself, but could only do with God's enabling and anointing. 

I think this solo refers to my coming to a different church and doing something by myself that I have been practicing for a long time--writing. It was not something I could finish doing at the other churches, but I needed to go to a different church setting to accomplish it…do the solo writing. The writing is my praise and worship to the Lord placed before others. 

You don't know what all the praise and worship you have entered into here in Lee's Summit (both in church and in your home) have done to enable you to write and produce the books. And you needed Beth to help you also--that was part of the enabling. Instead of using the two small hymnals for worship, you needed special music with a special choir and a choir director who would use you and lead you, and not let you withdraw from singing the solo. I am that special choir director, and I am leading you daily and enabling you daily and showing you how to sing the solo I have for you to sing. Remember when you had the dream where I (Holy Spirit) was singing? Well, I am a "singer." And you are also a singer as you listen to Me and sing out what I give you to sing. I wanted to reaffirm this to you today. Trust in this and trust in Me.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. (Psalm 40:5)

JOURNAL 3-18-06 Saturday

A DREAM ABOUT PREPARING TO PICK UP BABY KIM
* * * * * * * *

The setting seemed to be a building that was being used for a child care facility, like a school for young children. There were two teachers who each had a group of children in their room. I seemed to be overseeing the school. I walked around in the school rooms and made plans with the teachers. They seemed to be planning an upcoming event where the parents would be visiting the school, and we planned how to make room for all of them in the rooms. 

I seemed to be anticipating a time when I was to get baby Kim from someone who was watching her for me. I was planning how I would take care of her in this school building, where I would put her, how I would take care of her needs while carrying on my job. I planned to find a separate room where she could sleep and not be awakened by the children's noise.

Then I saw myself riding in the passenger seat of a car with a man driving it. We parked the car right next to the front entrance of the school, away from the place where most of the parents had parked their cars. 

Kim in this dream could mean herself or she could symbolize myself as a child whom I need to learn to care for as an adult while continuing a job at a school. The job of the teachers and overseers in a school is to teach, train, and help children grow rightly. This is more likely the interpretation since I am just starting to read the Phase 1 book of Christ-Life Solutions. Beth is taking the class on Wednesday nights. I am just reading the book. It talked about being the "adult ally" to the wounded child within yourself that needs an adult to listen to it and care about it. In this dream I seemed to be making plans for doing that. I don't actually see her in the dream, I just know she exists and plan to take care of her.

The setting is a place of education, of teaching or learning. It could refer to a church, people or work, a teaching ministry, or training. This school group was making plans and preparations to have the parents visit. The parents may refer to people to respect and honor. It may refer to people who are already trained, matured, and grown up. The parents' visiting may symbolize the people in these classrooms dealing with parental issues or relationships with them. 

I planned to arrange a separate room within the building where I could take care of baby Kim. That may refer to arranging time and a place to take care of the child inside myself that needs some special care and protection from the "noise" of the world around her. 

The scene with the car seems to mean I am in a ministry (car) with an unseen person (Holy Spirit) driving it. He parks the ministry car really close to the door of the place where I plan to attend to the child within me (baby Kim) and do the job of teaching also. A door represents an entranceway into something, perhaps a new opportunity, or a new way to go. This symbolizes something new to enter.
I want you to know that this dream does represent your new adventure and undertaking into looking at your inner child that influences you daily, and it refers to the opportunity to see some inner needs and minister to them as a mature adult who lovingly cares for that child.  This will be a healing situation and opportunity (door) to that. It will be good because I am driving this vehicle that is taking you there. You are doing this along with Me as your help and companion. You will minister to this little child that was left alone a lot and who learned to be quiet and not speak her thoughts and opinions out loud. You will be freed from those lie-based ideas you learned from your childhood surroundings. This is a great school for little children, this Christ-Life Solutions course, and you are now involved with it. I brought you to it in My right timing, and I will continue to go through it with you. This dream is not about Kim, but about you as a child. You wish you had done a better job of parenting her, so she symbolizes someone that you want better parented.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. (Psalm 42:1-2)

JOURNAL 3-21-06 Tuesday

A DREAM ABOUT BEN RESTING HIS HEAD ON MY LEFT ARM
* * * * * * * *

In my dream I was sitting on a chair in a series (like at church). Ben came and sat down on my left. He leaned back and hit his head rather hard and loudly behind him. I felt bad that I hadn't softened the blow, so I put my left arm on the back of his chair. Then when he leaned back again, his head went against my arm and he didn't get hurt. 

In this dream I was in a position of rest and quietness in a row of seats. A friend sat next to me who represented myself but was separate from myself. At first he hit his head when he tried to be in rest and quietness. That could symbolize my not understanding part of myself and hitting it against a wall or barrier. To help myself I put my left arm on the back of my chair. That symbolizes accepting and comforting that part of myself I was having difficulty finding rest for. Then that part of myself was comforted.

So Lord, I pray for your help and guidance in accepting that part of me that finds difficulty resting and being at peace, that part of me that represents my mind/intellect/wisdom bumping against a barrier and getting hurt.  I pray for your comfort and acceptance to draw this part of myself to me and embrace it. This may well refer to some inner wounding I experienced as a child. I embrace my own inner child experiences and pray for Your enabling me to find comfort, peace, and resolution there. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me--a prayer to the God of my life. (Psalm 42:8)

A DREAM ABOUT COLOR BARS
* * * * * * * *

There was a series of color bars (black, green, red, blue) going up and down. They seemed to represent something. The dream was about keeping these in the right order and recognizing them as they were situated. It seemed I watched as someone tried to change the order or intensity of the color bars, but then was led to put them back as they had been. 

Color aspects of dreams are important. The black represents lack of light. The red, green, and blue are the primary light colors; when put together they make light. The bars needed to be in a precise order. That means the light and lack of light needed to be in a precise order and spacing. The bars going up and down may refer to this being something vertical in relationship, something coming from heaven. When someone tried to change that order, they were instructed to put them back as they had been. To me this seems like it may refer to trusting the order that God brings light and lack of light into the world and we are not to try to change that or decrease their intensity.

That is right, Joan. You may pray for My kingdom to come and My will to be done on earth as it is in heaven -- trusting that My will is good and right and in the right order and sequence, and in the right intensity. My light will come as you pray for it to come. The darkness (black) will also be here in the world right now and I am allowing it for now. It won't always be here, but will for right now.

Lord, I pray for Your light to come into the world in the specific way You want it to come, and at the times You want it to come, and spaced out as You desire. I trust Your kingdom to come and Your will to be done from heaven to earth at Your precise timing. I pray for this in Your name, Jesus. Amen.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. (Psalm 42:11)

JOURNAL 3-31-06 Friday

Yes, I have things to share with you today. It is the last day of March and 1/4 of the year of 2006 is gone/past. I am doing great things in 2006 and you will share in them and be pleased with them. You have prayed for these things for many many years- especially revival all around the world--thousands and millions coming to Me. I am doing that now while the intercessors are praying in the facedown40 and intercessors are praying all over the world under My direction and guidance. It is happening, and it is producing the desired results. I want you aligned with intercessors, that is why I gave you the desire to attend the intercessor dinner rather than the soaking group at the women's advance. They are both good. It is just that I want you aligned with the intercessors. That is why I guided you/caused you to want to be part of that group. That is where you fit, where you belong.

Things will change drastically in the world soon. It must for Me to accomplish all My work that I am doing just now. Do not fear the changes. I am in the midst of all of them, even though some changes will come about through the enemy's attacks. Keep praying for your loved ones, your prayer bundle, daily. I hear those prayers and answer them as you desire. That's one reason they are all doing so well. There are other reasons too, but one reason is your prayers. I hear them and say yes to them each day.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The day is yours, and yours also the night; you established the sun and moon. It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter. (Psalm 74:16-17)

JOURNAL 4-2-06 Sunday

Today I read from the book by Bob Sorge called In His Face. I really received a lot from the book and want to put in my journal an idea he wrote about waiting on the Lord as a way of dying to self, cultivating humility, developing faith, being in a receiving posture, and coming to an understanding of the timing of the Lord.

(Quote from book In His Face by Bob Sorge, p 32-34)

The Spirit is saying much today about waiting on the Lord. When seed is sown in shallow soil it springs up quickly. When seed is placed in good soil, you've got to wait for it to come up. When God plants deeply in your life, you'll have to learn to wait.

I have five things to say about waiting.
1.	First statement: I hate it. Waiting kills me. Waiting on the Lord kills me…That's what He's trying to do. He's taking so long because He wants me to die to myself.
2.	Second statement: Waiting is an act of humility. One of God's foremost ways to cultivating humility in us is "waiting."
3.	Third statement: Waiting is an act of faith. When you wait on God, it's because you believe that He will come to you.
4.	Fourth statement: Waiting puts us in a receiving posture. Bob Mumford: God wants us to receive what He's giving, instead of trying to take what He's not giving…when God chooses to visit you, you don't have to worry about working something up; you'll know you've been visited. You've got to believe that God can show up without your help.
5.	There is only one way to come to an understanding of the timing of the Lord, and that is through waiting. You don't have to be long with the Lord before you're mystified by His timing. God's sense of timing, like all His ways, is vastly different from ours. It is one of the least-known secrets of spiritual leadership, that God uses leaders who have learned to wait on Him.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge uprightly. When the earth and all its people quake, it is I who hold its pillars firm. (Psalm 75:2-3)

JOURNAL 4-3-06 Monday

Today in reading the book In His Face I was especially impacted by his writing about hearing the Lord. 

(Quote from book In His Face by Bob Sorge, p 54-58)

While meditating in the Gospels, I suddenly saw what was the most important concept in the message of Jesus. The Lord revealed to me what was the most prominent word or thought in Jesus' teachings. It's the central word in the gospel. When I saw this, I realized that this was the most important word in the entire Bible. I didn't get this from a commentary or a book. This was a revelation to my heart in the school of the Spirit.

It is very important that you grasp what the Spirit is wanting to say to you in this chapter, because if you can hear this word it will transform your orientation toward everything you do in the Kingdom of God. It has become for me something of a "master key" to moving and ministering in the Kingdom it is through this one word that we unlock everything that Christ has made available to us in spiritual realms. 

The word is simply this: "hear." "He who has ears to hear let him hear!" (Matthew 11:15) Everything in the gospel is predicated upon truly and simply hearing what God is saying.

"Hear, O Israel…" (Mark 12:29)
"Faith comes by hearing." 
"This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!" (Mark 9:7)

I will tell you why you don't hear Him. You're not in His word. What was the "one thing" that was needed, which Mary chose? It was to hear His word.

There is only one way to have the thoughts of God, or to walk in the ways of God, and that is by hearing Him…. We can no longer afford to take a solitary step apart from the voice of God.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. (Psalm 78:4b)

JOURNAL 4-5-06 Wednesday

A DREAM ABOUT TRYING TO TYPE ON AN OLD FASHIONED TYPEWRITER
* * * * * * * *

In this dream I was sitting at a desk working on trying to type something on an old fashioned typewriter. I didn't know how to get it to turn on, then I found some kind of switch and turned it on, even though it didn't seem like an electric typewriter. It looked like an old non-electric one with stiff high keys with each key circled with metal. Then I worked to try to figure out how to load a piece of paper, looking for some way it would automatically do that, and watching to see if it would. I was asked if I had yet typed something which needed to be done, and said I had not. I was talking to a non-specific lady who was working/sitting at a desk immediately to the right of mine and backed up against mine. 

My first impression about this dream is that I am trying to communicate something, but I don't have modern tools to do that. I am not accomplishing the task I need to do because I am busy trying to make the typewriter function. I am trying to do something in an outdated way, perhaps with a tool from my past that is not used now.

A typewriter refers to preserved ideas. Since this is a very old fashioned typewriter like used to be in my childhood home, perhaps the dream shows me trying to function with ideas preserved from my childhood and trying to use them to work in an electric typewriter/computer age now. In the dream I had not yet finished the communication task I wanted to do. I needed the paper in place to do this and I was working on that. Paper refers to communicating something.

What communication task am I dealing with right now? It's trying to understand and communicate what has been taking place in the Prophecy Class the last 2 weeks. Perhaps this dream is to show me I am having a mind set or communication system left over from my childhood days. Maybe it is to show me that I am not yet ready to write out what needs to be communicated. The task I am trying to accomplish is not yet finished and done. Is there more You want to tell me, Lord?

Yes, there is. You see a task you are trying to accomplish, and you are working hard at trying to do that, but you just aren't ready to "put on paper" what you want to get done. You want to know what was happening on the last two Monday nights, and you don't yet understand it fully. It has to be revealed to you yet by revelation from Me. 

I have you reading a book that helps you understand some of it, but not all. Keep reading the book, then review it and catch the highlights. Then I will ask you some questions and have you write the answers as best you can. Print this in your journal. 

Then you may be ready for some more revelation. This is not a quick fix answer, but a study in spiritual things that happen which I want you to learn and understand better. You have learned a lot about a "manipulative" person in your past. Maybe that's what the "old" typewriter stands for - something you learned from your past that partially functions for you now in the current situation, but it doesn't function well enough to finish the task before you. The dream shows you that…the past information helps but it doesn't show you the whole picture of what is happening now. You need teaching from Me and revelation from Me to do that.

Keep studying, keep asking, keep praying, keep seeking wisdom as you would for silver or gold, and I will provide the understanding you need. I may do more in dreams, so keep watching them for help.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. (Psalm 84:1-2)
JOURNAL 4-6-06 Thursday

(from Rick Joyner in a special bulletin 11-26-04 at MorningStarMinistries.org)

Truth without love will result in a legalism that kills. Love without truth will result in a license that will likewise result in sin that kills. We need to keep both and keep them in their proper balance. 

Even so, God does not forgive excuses—He forgives sin, if we repent of it. Therefore, to have a true ministry of restoration we must have an unyielding devotion to the biblical standards of morality and integrity. However, to have that devotion without a ministry of restoration usually leads to destructive legalism. To seek to have a ministry of restoration without upholding the standards of God’s righteousness usually results in people feeling better about their problems, but not being delivered from them. We need both a devotion to God’s standards of righteousness, and a true open hand and heart to any who have fallen short of it. Truth, openness, and transparency, which is the confessing of our sins to one another, are necessary for a true restoration, but we do not want to embarrass anyone—we want to restore them.

I have prayed for many years to have more of the true and holy fear of the Lord, and to hate sin and love righteousness as the Lord did. I don’t think any single event in my life has caused me to grow so much and so fast in both the fear of the Lord and the hatred of my own sin. Though I may not be guilty of the sins that disqualify one from ministry, it can be “the little foxes that spoil the vine” (Song of Solomon 2:15 NIV). Many little things in my life that I knew in my heart were wrong have been greatly magnified in importance and revulsion. I think the deeper concept that I have of both His kindness and His severity have brought a much deeper level of cleansing in my own life.

We are about to know the depth, height, and width of His kindness toward all who repent. We are also about to know His severity for those who do not. Through all of this my love for God has grown a great deal, but so has my fear of His wrath. These are both good. So, even though heartbreaks, personal attacks, and threats came from one that I still love, honor, and esteem very much, I think I am much stronger in the Lord, much wiser and discerning, and even more resolved to do His will, than before all of this came to our attention.

I also think that Mike and Jack are likewise much stronger through it all, even though we all hope that if there is any way we can continue to grow in these things, that it is not in this way again. Even so, I do not intend to run from this kind of thing if we are called to deal with it. I try to resolve more each day to do the Lord’s will, whatever that is, and to see Him receive the reward of His sacrifice—a bride that is prepared for Him without spot or wrinkle, passionately in love with Him, revealing to the world the glory and power of His salvation. Again, the maturity with which the church seems to be handling this gives me great hope that we are closer to this than I may have previously considered.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. (Psalm 87:11)

(from Rick Joyner, special bulletin #4, 2005)

There is a process which almost everyone goes through after they sin. We even saw this process with former President Clinton. It was demonstrated after the first sin with Adam and Eve and most people since. Just as Adam and Eve first tried to hide, cover themselves, deny, and then blame-shift, most people seem to go through these same stages in regard to sin. Therefore, evidence that we have truly repented (which is more than just admitting to the sin) is open honesty about the sin, abandoning all attempts to cover it up, and no longer blaming others for what we did. God does not forgive excuses—He forgives confessed sin. Ownership of the sin and transparency are signs that there has been true repentance. 

As stated, repentance is just the first step in the restoration process. The length and difficulty of this process usually depends on the one who sinned. I do not believe any sin that requires a restoration process is easy, or is meant to be. This is not because the restoration process is punishment for the sin. It is never intended to be punishment, which was paid for on the cross, but rather it is for the purpose of finding and shutting the gates of hell or the devil’s access points into a person’s life, through which he was brought into the sin. This is not to blame the devil for what we did, but because he saw an opening and used it means that there was a weakness in our lives that needs to be recognized and changed. 

It will take much longer to find these gates of hell if the person continues to have the tendency to cover himself or blame others for his problems. Sometimes even after the initial burst of honesty and repentance about the sin it still takes time and hard work to become transparent enough about the problems to even find the gates of hell, much less close them. Light casts out darkness, therefore transparency is essential in a true restoration process.

I believe any restoration can be made easier and faster by honesty, true remorse for the sin, and genuine desire for freedom from the sin, if coupled with the constitution of being a fighter. One with a weak constitution will usually be prone to making excuses for failures. There is a saying that one who is good at making excuses is seldom good at anything else. I have found blame-shifting and self-pity to be the main strongholds that keep people in the bondage of sin. 

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. (Psalm 84:10-11)

JOURNAL 4-9-06 Sunday

A DREAM ABOUT CHILDREN TURNING IN LEAVES WHICH WERE PRAYERS
* * * * * * * *

In this dream children turned in leaves to me. These were the shape of maple leaves. It seemed that the leaves represented prayers. In the dream I was putting the leaves of one child into a scrapbook, placing the leaves on both sides of each page. It seemed that every second page there was a picture of the child resting on that page, in about a 2 1/2 inch portion on the page. It seems like I sensed some potential danger involved, but I don't remember how or why. Perhaps it only seemed so by me. I still felt a sense of fear even as I wrote out the dream.

The child represents me. The leaves represent words or life that were sent up to God as prayers. Healthy leaves are planted by the rivers of life. They represent the ability to survive under something, whether under pressure or abundance. Scriptures about leaves:

Psalm 1:3: "But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."

Jeremiah 17:8 "He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."

Matthew 24:32 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door."

Revelation 22:1-2 "Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations."

This scrapbook that I put the leaves in represents a book of Remembrance of the prayers I have sent up to the Lord throughout my life. I have prayed, then rested a short while from those prayers, then prayed again, etc. I am, in this dream, dealing with this Book of Remembrance, and adding the current prayer cycle for the Prophetic Class situation to the book. This is rather scary to me as I am not sure what the situation in the group is composed of, and where it comes from. Therefore I have a sense of fear or awareness there might be trouble as I enter these pages in my Book of Prayer Remembrance. However the prayers (leaves) are new and fresh, not withered or faded, so they seem to represent prayers out of the above Scriptures: leaves that are always green which are connected to the river/streams of water, leaves that may signal the end times are here, leaves that are for the healing of the nations.

The book represents a record, the Word of God, the heart of man, a witness, a remembrance, the conscience, education, knowledge, or preparation. It represents the scriptures; learning or gaining understanding; revelation that can only come from God or man's wisdom; acquired information; instruction; important register; book of law; Book of Life; book of God's judgment. Scriptures about books:

•	Daniel 7:10 "The court was seated, and the books were opened."
•	Revelation 3:5 "He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels."
•	Revelation 1:11 "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches."
•	Revelation 17:8 "The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because he once was, now is not, and yet will come."
•	Revelation 20:12 "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.
•	Revelation 20:15 "If anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."
•	Isaiah 65:6 "See, it stands written before me."
•	Hebrews 12:22-23 "But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel."
•	Joshua 1:8 "Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."
•	Malachi 3:16-18 "Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name. 'They will be mine,' says the Lord Almighty, 'in the day when I make up my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as in compassion a man spares his son who serves him. And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.'"
•	2 Kings 22:8 "Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the secretary, 'I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the Lord.'"

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." (Psalm 91:1-2)

These are some words of encouragement the Holy Spirit led me to today:

Hebrews 12:1-15, 22-29, 13;1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

In you struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." 

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father. If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. "Make level paths for your feet," so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. (Prov. 4:26 Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left.)

Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many…

But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven? At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken--that is, created things--so that what cannot be shaken may remain.

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire." (Deut. 4:24)

Keep on loving each other as brothers.

Joshua 1:7-9
Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Malachi 3:16-18
Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name. "They will be mine," says the Lord Almighty, "in the day when I make up my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as in compassion a man spares his son who serves him. And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not."

2 Kings 22:8
Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the secretary, "I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the Lord."…"Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, 'This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the Lord. Therefore I will gather you to your fathers, and you will be buried in peace. Your eyes will not see all the disaster I am going to bring on this place."

Ezra 3:2-3
Then Jeshua…and his associates began to build the altar of the God of Israel to sacrifice burnt offerings on it, in accordance with what is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the Lord, both the morning and evening sacrifices.

You're trying to teach me something, Lord. What is it?

Keep studying and pondering and asking. I will guide you and show you. I am showing you that your prayers are fresh and new and preserved in your book of life and remembrance stored up in heaven. I can see your book and read it (even as you look at a scrapbook of remembrance) Your prayer "leaves" come from being planted by My stream of water, My river of Life…so they represent Me and what I want you to pray. Know that I want you to keep praying and seeking Me, and seeking understanding. I am training and disciplining and discipling you. I am encouraging you to be strengthened. I want you to see this discipling as coming right from My throne room as you are part of the church of the firstborn. The firstborn are those who are My Church, My Bride of Christ. Others are already there in heaven sitting with the firstborn. Others, like you, are still on earth, but you are connected to this church of the firstborn because you belong to it also--from the foundation of the world your names have been written there. You are going through your training period right now. Those already in heaven have completed their training on earth. But you still belong to that group referred to in Hebrews 12:23.

My intercessors often have to set themselves apart unto Me and listen, and pray what I give them to pray. That's part of being an intercessor. That's what I am doing in you today. This is good!

This is the last day of the fast (facedown40). This is the result of participating in that fast unto Me to call forth My kingdom to come on earth. I have heard the "fast" plea. I have heard the cry from you on earth to Me in heaven. I am coming down now--in My fullness. It is about to begin! My fullness will overwhelm all those who do not belong to Me, and will empower all those who DO belong to Me. My harvest will come out of this--My fullness being manifested on earth--this time as Lord and Savior, and conqueror. It will culminate by eliminating all My enemies and setting up My kingdom completely on earth and My ruling and reigning there. You and all who belong to Me will rule and reign with Me. Then the prophesies about the "millenium" kingdom will be fulfilled. You will see them fulfilled. IT'S TIME TO BEGIN!

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. (Psalm 91:4-6)

JOURNAL 4-11-06 Tuesday

Last night at Prophecy Class Bill visited the group. At one time I was sharing about my blank book in which I wrote my favorite Scriptures, then I could read that book when I wanted encouragement. Bill said something about "a book" and said he saw a book and tears falling on it (which may represent intercession) and when the tears fell on the ink in the book, the ink began running out to the group.

I said I felt that which he "saw" might refer to the journals I have been writing the last two weeks regarding the difficulty we have been trying to deal with in the Prophecy Class, and the intercession I have been going through for the group because of that.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

If you make the Most High your dwelling--even the Lord, who is my refuge--then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. (Psalm 91:9-12)

A DREAM ABOUT A GARAGE SALE AT KAY'S HOUSE
* * * * * * * *

I was at a sale (like a garage sale) that was being held at Kay's house. The things in the sale seemed to be from an organization that was holding it there. I tried a swim suit on my daughter. It had a sweater like top which went up to the neck…a strange looking swim suit. There were many women's dresses hanging from the ceiling. The ceiling was so high that the complete dress was above my head. There were many gorgeous dresses and I was trying to find one that might fit me. I got one or two dresses down and tried them on. It seems like one I liked was pink. I wanted to buy a dress for me, but Kay got first choice since the sale was at her house, so I was waiting to see if she wanted the same dress as I did. I also saw some toys which I wanted to get for my children. I saw a train I was excited about buying as it had such powers. I awoke feeling there was great and exciting power with this train.

This dream is about me and speaks about a sale which may represent a good deal or opportunity. The meaning of Kay is rejoicer or joyful. She probably represents me and speaks of being in a house or place of rejoicing. One of the things I looked at in this place was a swim suit which represents the ability to move deeply into the spirit. It came up to the neck which could refer to going as far as my will allows it to go. I also looked at toys. If they represent playing, that could indicate worship is also in the place of opportunity. I am seeking to purchase and put on a dress representing a covering, anointing, authority, protection, mantle, or what I am going to be doing. Since I am looking up at the dresses, they may refer to mantles in heaven which I am looking at to see which one I'd like to wear. The fact that it is pink may represent passion. The train seems to indicate great power and excitement. It can refer to continuous, unceasing work, something connected, or a large move of God.

This dream shows me having a good opportunity as I surround myself with and fill my heart with joy and worship. The opportunity includes the ability to move deeply in the spirit, as much as I will allow through my will. It includes a passionate anointing for something I am going to be doing. It also includes something that is exciting, has great power, and is part of a large move of God. I am to stay connected with Him for this to happen, and follow Him as train cars follow the engine. Staying connected with Him and with His people is part of this, which is a great move of His to come. It will come with great power and many will follow it. I think this may refer to the great revival and end time harvest.

You're right. That's a good description of what the dream means. You are already involved in this great train movement. You are already connected. Keep in joy and keep in worship. Keep your passionate mantle on and allow the Spirit to take you deeply into what He is doing. I am with you, and you will see this.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

"Because he loves me," say the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation." (Psalm 91:14-16)

A DREAM ABOUT WATCHING CAREFULLY THE REVELATION I SEE
* * * * * * * *

I told some man my last name (so he could look up my account or something like that), and then a policeman walked up to me who evidently had looked up my record. He described how I had to look carefully due to my eye/vision situation.

This dream seems to be a warning dream from a spiritual authority that I am to be careful due to my vision or revelation since I only see partially.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. (Psalm 37:3)

A DREAM ABOUT ALLOWING MY SENSITIVITY TO GROW
* * * * * * * *

A lady asked me if my peony was blooming yet--evidently a peony plant which she had given me. I said I hadn't had time yet to plant it. As I talked to her I was digging in some purple stuff which reminded me of a chalky substance, but it was deep purple in color.

A peony denotes sensitivity. The lady may represent the Holy Spirit who gave me sensitivity and wants me to plant it so it can grow and bloom in me. I am to plant it in soil that has authority and royalty, that is majestic and noble. It could include revelation (blue) and sacrifice (red).

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Your statutes stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days, O Lord. (Psalm 93:5)

JOURNAL 4-12-06 Wednesday

Today the Lord led me to ask Him to give me His love for the people in the Prophecy Group. It is in preparation to participate in the Agape Reformation. He reminded me that I am to do unto others as I want them to do unto me. Also I am to love my neighbor as myself. And I can expect to be judged in the same way I judge others. So I am asking for His love to fill me for others so I can love them as myself. I know I really care about myself, so I want to really care about others too. But I surely don't have that within me as part of my human nature. It has to be something given to me supernaturally by the Lord. I cannot confer it upon myself or grow it myself. But I can ask, believing I will receive. How did You love others so much, Jesus?

The Father, God, gave it to Me daily as I asked Him daily for it. It is surely not something humans are born with or grow into naturally. You are right. It is supernatural and comes out of My kingdom. So it is near. But you must seek it daily and sometimes even moment by moment. Keep doing this and keep working on this all the rest of your days on earth. I will help you and remind you. Even if someone really irritates you, ask Me to give you My love towards them. This will change you profoundly. Yes, it is part of the Agape Reformation you heard about. It is what I am doing right now on earth…bringing My people into a profound God-given love for one another and for others outside the Church. This will display My glory. Remember, they will know you are Christians by your love. They will know you are My disciples by your love. Keep seeking to be filled with My love daily, Joan. This is My desire and task for you right now. This is My best for you right now. This is My goal for you right now. This is My goal for CTC too…to be filled with and led by My love.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts! (Psalm 92:4-5)

JOURNAL 4-13-06 Thursday

A DREAM ABOUT ACTIVATING FIELDS OF GRAIN IN THE MORNING
* * * * * * * *

In the morning we could turn on our fields of grain (inside us) which had stood dormant all night, and they would come to life. Then we could worship the Lord.

This dream gives the message that each day we have the opportunity for a new beginning or fresh start to activate within ourselves what is needed to work in the harvest, in God's work, to bring spiritual nourishment to the world. This is a way we worship God.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Does he who implanted the ear not hear? Does he who formed the eye not see? Does he who disciplines nations not punish? Does he who teaches man lack knowledge? The Lord knows the thoughts of man; he knows that they are futile. (Psalm 94:9-11)

JOURNAL 4-19-06 Wednesday

A DREAM ABOUT 9-11
* * * * * * * *

As a group of us walked along, someone said it was 9-11 and wanted to know which month it was. I said October 11th and asked, wasn't that Armistice Day? Then it dawned on me 9-11 was significant as the anniversary of the terrorist attacks. I commented I didn't want to be in any big city on that day (as the terrorists like to use anniversary dates…like they might strike again).

The group walking along a pathway may refer to the church going along the way of the Lord. The word about it being 9-11 may refer to a prophetic message that it was the day of a terrorist attack since that is what that day is known for. But my response was that it stood for October 11th (which isn't correct) and about that being Armistice Day (which is also incorrect--it's on November 11th) may have some significance. It may signify that I was figuring time wrongly or that I am to note the significance of those two days (October and November 11th). Then I seemed to see the correct time and tied it to a previous terrorist attack, with concern that might happen again on the same date. 911 is also the number to call for emergency help. 

In regard to October 11 (10-11) I felt I was to look up Genesis 10:11… "from that land he went to Assyria, where he built Nineveh…"

Footnote re Nineveh on pg 1150 of my Bible in a reference to Nahum 1:1: "Nineveh, the capital of the ancient Assyrian Empire, was noted for its cruelty and violence. This is confirmed by the ancient records found there. Under the preaching of Jonah in the eighth century B. C., the city and king had turned to God. But in the time of Nahum, a century or more later, the city had wholly departed from God. The message of Nahum, therefore, though given perhaps a generation before the destruction of the city, is not a call to repentance but an unrelieved warning of judgment. Such is the way of God; light rejected brings destruction." (Scofield note)

Armistice Day: The day the war was over. 

What does all this mean, Lord? What message are you giving me through this dream?

What does this make you think of, Joan?

It makes me think of the Arab countries in the area of the world where Nineveh and Babylon were located, and the opportunity for Nineveh to know about God and repent of being away from him. Then later they turned away again and were judged because they rejected the light given them. It makes me think this might happen again now…that that part of the world will be given the opportunity to repent and turn to the Lord (or maybe they already have been given it), then will be judged if they reject the light. It reminds me of the cities that Jesus said "woe" against because they didn't repent when he performed many miracles there (Korazin, Bethsaida, Capernaum).

 The reference to Armistice Day may be giving me the message that the day the war is over between light and darkness is soon. The time is coming soon. Then the millenium will begin when Christ rules over the earth.

So 10-11 refers to the judgment coming on the area of the world represented by Nineveh (referring to those who don't repent and turn to You), and Armistice Day (11-11) refers to the war being finished soon between light and darkness…at least for 1000 years. What do You say, Lord?

I say: listen to Me carefully. This is a message I want you to truly HEAR. I want you to know what is coming, Joan, as you are one of My prophets.  And you care enough to ask…

The judgement is coming SOON…very very soon. You will see it with your own eyes, just as Tommy Hicks saw the things that happened in his vision of the end times. But you will be up high above the destruction, up in heaven with Me and with My Church - watching and grieving with Me that so many rejected Me. So many. So many will reject the light offered to them. But all you can do is offer it. And you are helping offer it as you pray for those going out to share the Gospel, and as you financially help with that work.

It's not much, Lord.

It's what I want you to do. It's what I prompt you to give. It's your part.

I pray for Your Church, Lord, around the world, giving out the Gospel, living out the Gospel before all men. I pray for Your Word to go forth in Your Name to all whom the Father calls to You, Jesus…just as He called them to You when You were here on earth. I pray for Your Kingdom to come and Your will to be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

Just expect judgment day to come soon, My child. And soon means within the time just after the revival coming over the next four years…as Kim Clement said in the prophecy you read this week. After the revival harvest, then I will take out My own, all who truly belong to Me, and then the judgment will come. After that, the war will be over and "Armistice Day" will be upon the earth. The war will be over and I will have won through My people and through My power. Then you can look forward to the millenium and peace and joy and Godly relationships on the earth again…like before Adam and Eve fell. I finished everything that was needed to accomplish this when I was on the cross. Now I will finish carrying it all out through My Church and My power…just like it talks about in Revelation.

The Lord showed me that terrorist attacks all around the world are like the locusts of Revelation 9:11 that come out on earth and "sting" people and cause great pain through their stings.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

A DREAM ABOUT BEING CALLED BY A CHOIR DIRECTOR
* * * * * * * *

I went to an area where I thought a choir picture was to be taken. I saw snow on the riser-like seats, covering most of the seats. It looked like snow in the way it was drifted over the seats, but it also seemed like it wasn't wet or heavy, but light weight. Some people were already sitting on some of the seats waiting…the men on the lower seats and some women up higher. They sat there partially covered by the "snow" like stuff. I started to brush off a seat in between the men and women so I could sit there, thinking that might be where the sopranos would sit. Then I heard the choir director calling to us to come up where he was to rehearse. His voice came from somewhere behind me.

The picture of the choir symbolizes those who sing praises to God and worship Him being seen together (the picture) in something to bring it to remembrance. The snow refers to the choir being "as white as snow" or clean before the Lord. They are surrounded by this "cleanness." Then the choir director, who is Jesus, calls us to come up to where He is. That refers to the Rapture when He calls His own up to be with Him in the air. Is this right, Lord?

This is totally right. It is another picture of the Rapture which is VERY SOON. 

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. (Proverbs 2:1-5)

(Quote from Rick Joyner's book A Prophetic Vision For the 21st Century, pg 90)

"Spiritual gifts and callings are involved in prophetic ministry, but its true essence is simply friendship with God. One reason the Lord does not do anything without sharing it with His servants the prophets is that He does not want to do anything without sharing it with His close friends. When we become close enough to the Lord, having the wisdom to know how to keep secrets until the proper time to reveal them, He will share everything that He is doing with us."

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver. (Proverbs 8:17-19)

JOURNAL 4-21-06 Friday

This article I read on the internet yesterday from Fresh Fire Ministries is so good I wanted to include it in my journal…

SANCTIFYING THE IMAGINATION - PART 1

Date: April 17, 2006

This is a two part teaching of the week entitled Sanctifying the Imagination by Craig Kinsley, an associate of Fresh Fire Ministries. In this week’s teaching Craig discusses why it is so vital to God’s heart that our imaginations be wholly sanctified. You’ll discover how a sanctified imagination is a main key to prophetic revelation. Next week Craig will examine the importance of maintaining a pure heart so that our imaginations remain sanctified. You’ll learn how to identify carnal problem areas, root them out, and replace carnality with a heavenly mindset. Craig’s biography is at the close of this teaching. 

SANCTIFYING THE IMAGINATION
BY CRAIG KINSLEY

PART 1

What do you think of when you hear the word “imagination”? Most of us think of our childhood. Maybe you had an imaginary friend, or you might remember imagining situations while playing. My wife, for instance, can tell me about detailed imaginary instances that she remembers from her childhood. 

Although children love the whole imagination realm and are easily engaged there, I want us to begin to appreciate that imagination isn’t just for children. Actually, it is a powerful path to prophetic revelation and meditation.

OUR IMAGINATION IS GOD'S IDEA

Whether you realize it or not, you use your imagination everyday. Let’s look at it this way. Scripture speaks of “the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Heb. 4:12b). This would be what your heart thinks and meditates on. This is the imagination.

In God’s infinite wisdom, He created the imagination and He desires us to use it. However, many times when God wants to speak to us through our imagination we have either regarded it as foolishness or our imagination has been so clouded with unholy images and experiences that we have been hindered from hearing God properly.

In fact, those unholy images in our mind must be dismissed and we need to surrender our minds to Jesus Christ. That’s essentially what sanctify means. In the dictionary, sanctify is: to set apart as holy; consecrate; to make free from sin (Webster’s New World Dictionary).

With this in mind, I actually heard the Lord say to me: “Son, I want to root up and pull out the evil in the hearts of My people.” Therefore, through this teaching series we are going to learn how to sanctify the imagination for God’s purposes.

WE'RE MADE TO BE LIKE HIM

The Lord has specific plans and definite purposes for our lives. After all, we aren’t a haphazard creation! It ravishes my heart with the love of God to think about how we are created in His image. God said: “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth” (Gen.1:26).

Also, God’s thoughts toward us cannot be numbered! He thinks about you all the time. In the same way that we have an imagination, God has an imagination, and it’s fixed on you! The Father uses His imagination to meditate on His love for you. David had a revelation about this and so he wrote: “Many, O LORD my God, are Your wonderful works which You have done; and Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered” (Psalm 40:5).

One particular day when I was praying, the Holy Spirit used this particular verse to heighten my sensitivity to the prophetic realm. Here’s what I heard the Holy Spirit say: “If My thoughts towards my people are innumerable, all you have to do is align your thoughts with mine. If you do this you will come into a river of prophetic revelation.”

So in the same way that God has thoughts fixed on us, when we have our thoughts fixed on God it opens our spirits to increasing knowledge of Him and prophetic knowledge for ourselves and others.

As well, since we are created in the image of God, we are made to be creative, as He is. Our creative nature and imagination sets us apart from the rest of creation. This is where true worship comes from—the creative imagination. When our imagination is sanctified and holy, we can choose to set our thoughts on God and use the creative process of our thoughts in worship.

Our creative nature, when used with our imagination, actually has power to transform our lives and bring the reality of God’s will into our present circumstances.

There is a saying among Christian teachers, “what you behold, you become.” I believe this to be biblically accurate because when we set our thoughts on the Lord, we become more like Him. Paul the apostle spoke to the Corinthian church about this. Here’s what he said, “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Cor. 3:18).

In fact, as we use our imaginations to meditate on the will of God and what His Word says, it brings the power of His will into our lives. This revelation was on the heart of King Solomon when he wrote: ”Commit your works to the LORD, and your thoughts will be established” (Prov. 16:3).

Consequently, as we become committed to the Lord, the desires of our heart, out of a sanctified imagination, actually become a reality. The Father is interested in what is on our heart. Most of us have prayed a prayer like this before: “Father, make my will Your will.” Actually, God’s heart is that out of a sanctified imagination we would share our heart desires with him. He has always desired to preserve our will as “co-laborers with Christ.”

When we commit ourselves to God, our thoughts will be established. This point is illustrated through King Solomon’s statement: “But the LORD said to my father David, ‘Whereas it was in your heart to build a temple for My name, you did well in that it was in your heart” (2 Chron. 6:8).

It was in David’s heart to build a temple for the Lord and he received the pattern, or plans, in writing when God’s hand came upon him (1 Chron. 28:19). I believe God inspired David’s sanctified imagination and he received the temple model in his heart before it became a reality. (Solomon actually built God’s temple.)

A HEART FIXED ON GOD

David’s heart was fixed on God and I believe that deep in the heart of every person is a desire to know God. Let’s read the words of God that Paul repeated to the Israelites: “I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart…” (Acts 13:22).

The Bible promises that if we seek Him, He will be found (Matt. 7:7). People often ask me why it is that some seem to hear the voice of God and encounter Him more often than most people. I believe a key answer is that we need to have a loyal heart, a willing mind, and be like David— a man or woman after God’s own heart (1 Sam. 13:14).

A loyal heart requires an imagination, or “thoughts of the heart” that are totally fixed on God. When our heart is loyally fixed on God alone, we can be sure that we will not only encounter heaven, but the priorities of our life will fall into place.

However, I’ve noticed that many believers have a hard time encountering God because their heart is pulled in so many directions. So I’ve have made it a spiritual discipline to use my imagination to fix my thoughts on God instead of allowing my thoughts to be pulled here and there. Every night while I wait to fall asleep I discipline myself to fix my thoughts on God instead of worrying about the day and about what tomorrow will bring. 

Unfortunately, many Christians think about the problems surrounding their day. When this happens, they actually use their imagination to empower fear and anxiety. Instead of focusing on the problems with a kingdom mindset that says, “God can fix that; He’s a big God,” they focus on the problem and actually make it out to be bigger than God. But let’s resist that temptation and remember that what we behold we become.

WHAT WE BEHOLD WE BECOME

I remember at 19 years of age, when God first exploded into my life, I began to behold some great and awesome revelations about my destiny. Without any effort on my part I began to receive visions and revelations about what He was going to do with my life. I would receive revelation about coming moves of God before I had even read prophetic words surrounding these events.

I was amazed because when this was happening, all I had from past experience was a Southern Baptist upbringing with a cold devotion to God. But my past didn’t stop God. During that time I would lie on my bed and imagine all that God would do with my life. I would think about thousands of souls rushing to an altar and falling on their faces. I would see people jumping out of wheelchairs and women screaming that they could now see for the first time. I would imagine angels of God descending into meetings and bringing revelations and the presence of God.

I received these revelations before I had experienced anything even remotely like this! It’s also a wonder to me to think that I imagined that all this would come to pass when I was about 40 years old. But instead, these meditations and thoughts at 19 years of age have already begun to happen in my life now. Today, I am dreaming bigger!

However, back then, if I had wanted to simply dwell on my present circumstances and all the problems, I could have easily done that. I was living with my parents. I had just been delivered from a life of drugs and alcohol, leaving all of my friends behind. I had all but dropped out of college and I didn’t have a single dime of income to my name. But none of that seemed to matter when I fixed my gaze on Jesus with great inner devotion.

Perhaps some of you are facing temporary circumstances that are painful and hard, but if you will just set your heart on God you will always be full of God. Remember, what you behold you become. So what is your heart set on?

David advised his son Solomon to know God; in other words to behold his God, “and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind…” (1 Chron. 28:9a). We discussed the importance of having a loyal heart and a willing mind earlier, and this bears repeating. A willing mind is a mind, or imagination, that is totally open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. This is a crucial key to the prophetic ministry because being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit is integral to possessing an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit and walking in prophetic ministry.

Since the Holy Spirit will use our thoughts to express His will for a given situation, we need to seek God. Moses told the people: “But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deut. 4:29).

Seeking God with all our heart and soul certainly catches God’s eye. When Samuel came to Jesse to anoint the next king of Israel, which would turn out to be David, God reminded Samuel of that principle. “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7b). Seeking and following God begins in the heart and leads to actions.

HOW GOD USES AND INSPIRES THE IMAGINATION

When we set our sanctified imagination on God, His will is made known to us because the imagination is the place where God most often speaks to us. We often call our sanctified imagination “the eyes of our understanding,” or “the eyes of our heart.” Paul spoke about this to the Ephesians when he said: “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints” (Eph. 1:18 NAS). And when the eyes of our heart are enlightened it leads to other realms of prophetic revelation.

Did you know that “the eyes of your understanding” (the eyes of your heart) actually means the mind, will, intellect and imagination? Our spiritual eye, the place where we begin to see into the realm of the Spirit, is our imagination! This is the same place that we daydream. So we need to learn to quiet our minds and let God speak to us in our imagination. But much of the time Christians seem to have trouble coming into visions of God because they do not know where their spiritual eye is. They simply close their eyes and wait for a vision to appear. All the while they are just staring at the closed eyelids.

But it works in this way: I can ask you to picture a red fire truck right now. Go ahead and picture it. Now, in your mind you saw a red fire truck. This is how God brings images to your spirit, except it isn’t you just thinking of the image, but it is God who initiates it. We can quiet our minds and focus our heart on Jesus and expect him to use and to inspire our imagination or “the eyes of our heart.”

WE HAVE NATURAL SENSES AND SPIRITUAL SENSES

Did you know that in the same way we have natural senses, we have spiritual senses? The imagination is part of our spiritual senses. The more we learn to exercise this sense, through soaking and contemplative prayer, the more we learn to access that realm at will. God always desires to speak to us. Remember, His thoughts toward us are innumerable. If we will sanctify our imagination and quiet our own thoughts, God can insert His! 

When we get this revelation it opens the doors of revelation in our imagination. I learned this principle, that God would give me His thoughts, through those times lying on my bed before sleep. I would allow God to insert images and pictures into my mind. Soon I found myself having internal visions and eventually I would fall into a trance and actually have heavenly encounters. 

Dreams work in the same way. God has always spoken to His children through dreams and He continues to do so today. We’ve had countless testimonies recently of dramatic changes in people’s lives because of dream interpretation. I have actually had times when I encountered angels and even the Lord Himself through dreams. 

But having said that I am also aware that the Lord wants to alert us to the danger of entertaining a carnal imagination because carnality will not only defile and tarnish our dreams, it will affect our ability to maintain a pure stream of God’s prophetic revelation. Because this area is so important, we’ll discuss it in greater detail next week so that we can identify problem areas, root them out, and replace them with a heavenly mindset.

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Craig Kinsley is a prophetic revivalist and the founder of Awake International and travels throughout North America and the nations of the world releasing the glory of God and imparting a spirit of revival. Craig moves in a strong prophetic anointing that releases destiny to churches, regions and nations. Through the power of God and the word of knowledge he also sees many miraculously healed and delivered. His desire is to equip every believer and to raise up a generation that releases the kingdom of heaven everywhere they go.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. (Proverbs 4:23)

JOURNAL 4-22-06 Saturday

A DREAM ABOUT BACKING INTO SOMEONE'S HOUSE
* * * * * * * *

I backed a pickup truck down a hill and lost control. It went into some people's yard and smashed into their house. The people who lived there were outside in the front yard with a gathering of guests. I shook hands with them and introduced myself to the man and his wife whose home it was.

Let's say the pickup stands for me, my work, or my personal ministry. Then, backing up may refer to reversing my direction and going backwards. In the dream, when I tried to back up, I went down a hill and lost control of myself, my work, or my personal ministry. In that process I crashed into someone's house which could refer to another person, a family, or a church. A crash/wreck could be a warning of a clash or confrontation in ministries or with people in strife. When that happened I got out of my pickup truck and met the house owners and we gave our names to each other (revealed who we were) and shook hands or came to a covenant or agreement together. This seems to indicate communion or agreement together. This was in their front yard so it could mean this is about a future event or something happening now.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul. (Psalm 94:18-19)

JOURNAL 4-24-06 Sunday

A DREAM ABOUT LEARNING TO SLEEP USING MUSIC
* * * * * * * *

I was trying to help some girls to learn to go to sleep using music. I showed them old records Beth used to use. One girl was going to try to buy a record player and I said she probably couldn't buy one anymore and that she should get CD's and a small CD player. I awoke with the words in my mind "I've seen it" going over and over almost like a song.

This dream seems to be a message about me working with others to help them learn to rest. I taught them to rest by listening to music (like Beth did as a child) on records. However I advised one girl that currently that could best be done using CD's and a CD player. The CD symbolized condensed information, acquiring a large block of knowledge in a short span of time. The CD player is used to bring forth the message on the CD. The message on the CD's would involve worship proceeding from the heart to God. That's where the rest would come from. The message of the song in my head as I awoke was that I had seen this happen. What had I seen happen? I'd seen rest coming from the worship of God proceeding from one's heart.

That is the truth, and that is the message you are and will be giving to women/girls…that rest comes from worshiping Me with all your heart. As you worship Me, I give you rest and sleep. You want to know how to sleep better? Worship Me from your heart. That is the song that will enable you to sleep because it involves focusing on Me, talking to Me, praising Me, and eventually trusting in Me. It brings forth My favor to the one praising. And My favor can be sleep when that is what's needed. That is the message of this dream…to you, and for you to share with others.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. (Proverbs 1:7)

A DREAM ABOUT BUYING FOOD TO DO GOD'S WORK
* * * * * * * *

I was at a hospital trying to buy snacks to eat. I got some package with nuts and lettuce and vegetables. I was chopping mine together, like making a salad. A woman said the nuts were to be microwaved. I sat at a table to eat. Some others came too. I was trying to find and read the directions about microwaving the nuts.

My hospital (where I would seek healing and care) is to come to the presence of the Lord and to His Word. I also might seek it through the church. So this is the setting of this dream--coming to the Lord for something. In that place I am trying to buy, obtain, or purchase solid food which is the work of God. I desire to eat or experience it. What I buy symbolizes food for energy and the fruit of my labor or essential nutrients. The heating of the nuts may refer to bringing this food for energy and protein to a quick and efficient prepared state. The woman may refer to the Holy Spirit or an angel speaking to me. I was seeking to find out how to do that.

Yes, this pertains to buying, preparing and eating the work I have for you to do. You are helped by the Holy Spirit and are looking for guidance from My Word. This happening in a hospital refers to being in a place of healing and caring and restoration to full health. That is what I have for you, Joan…restoration to full health. And part of that restoration will be transformed quickly and efficiently for your use and eating and experiencing. This is a prophetic message of things to come soon in your life. You can watch for it and, when you see it at hand, then ask Me for the directions for preparing it quickly. That's what a microwave stands for.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm. (Proverbs 1:33)
JOURNAL 4-25-06 Tuesday

I'm growing things in you. It's the many-breasted one (El Shaddai), the mother heart of God. That's what your dream was about - growth of My mother heart in you.  

How will this manifest, Lord?

It will come upon you and just be part of you - as naturally as you breathe. It will be Me within you, Christ in you, showing Myself as I really am. Naturally, not something contrived. You won't have to force it to come forth - just be you, and this will come forth as part of you. See, I do it all. You just receive - just like you received the gift of salvation. It's all happening in My way and in My time. You don't need to tell anyone or declare it. It will just be. Just as I AM.

It's already there, within you, as I am already there. It just has to be activated by Me - and that's what I've done now. It's done. You'll see this start to manifest and you'll know it's Me within you, as part of you, doing this.

What will it look like? You'll notice new thoughts, new attitudes, new desires rising up within. Just "follow Me" when those come - follow Me - and I will take you where I want you to be.

Follow Me each day and each moment, remember? And you will always be in My will - doing what I and My Father will for you. Only one tiny step at a time, letting Me come forth through you and use you, for My glory.

Don't let fear lead you - but faith and trust in Me. You've made the "connection" with Me, and your character is ready, so "In His Time," now, we are going forward. The preparation time here in Lee's Summit is done. You will keep on learning, but also doing at the same time.

Do I have to pray this into being?

It's already here. It's already within you. Just don't quench it. Just let it flow - like rivers of living water flowing from within you. It will be very pleasant to your heart and soul, not hard.

When I give you messages after this, you pray for what I've told you in the messages. It's time. And any you read back over - pray for those messages to. It's time.

It's time, Joan. That's going to be My message to you a lot from now…it's time!

The song that came into my mind after receiving this message was: "Don't sit under the apple tree with anyone else but Me - 'til I come marching home." To me that means I am not to sit with anyone else except the Lord Himself to share and commune, and to keep communing with Him until He comes marching home here to earth at His glorious return.
SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:6)

JOURNAL 4-26-06 Wednesday

A DREAM ABOUT TEACHING SCHOOL WITH FUN PROJECTS
* * * * * * * *

In this dream I was a school teacher trying to encourage the students to want to learn through projects that were fun. I seemed to have the ideas for teaching but hadn't yet prepared some of the materials. I kept thinking about things I still needed to prepare and do. 

I was trying to get one boy to work on his studies. He got two marks against him for doing some wrong things. I sat him in my lap as I sat in a rocking chair and held him and tried to explain how important it was to learn. I met with his dad and explained about a learning project soon coming. This was to get him to encourage his son to participate. He seemed to want his son to do that if it didn't cost too much for the materials.

The setting of this dream was a place of learning. I was the teacher, probably trying to train some part of the child inside me to learn something important. Not all the materials were yet ready to do that, but I was still trying to do it. Some part of me seemed to need special attention and needed discernment to judge what to do. I took this special need, held it close to me, and tried to give it rest and comfort. It may pertain to something in my past or past memory. I talked with God about this. There was something coming soon that might be helpful to the needed learning--if it didn't cost too much for the materials. Perhaps that refers to the Arthur Burk conference coming soon which I felt cost too much to attend.

Yes, Joan, I want you to go to it. You will have enough money by then to pay for it. Don't hold back from learning this which might help your inner child be freer.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. 
(Proverbs 3:27)

JOURNAL 4-27-06 Thursday

Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

Today in my meditation time with the Lord He began to show me a plan He has for my future. It is a plan whereby He will bring me up into His Presence and completely renew me: body and soul, even as my spirit has been renewed by Him. He has been showing/telling me today that He will renew my body so it will be like it was when I was in college, before I got married. He said I am to dream/imagine together with Him the renewal of my body. I asked Him if He didn't want us to dream regarding ministry, and He said - we will.

You keep imagining yourself coming up here to be with Me and I healing you completely while you are here. This will happen while you are home alone by yourself…not at church when someone is praying for your healing. This healing will be so visible it will show My glory in you and upon you. You will never go back to being like you are now in your body or soul. At the same time I will heal all those negative parts in your mind, will, and emotion which were put upon you as an infant and child. You will be a brand new creation, created by Me. Do you want that?

Yes, Lord!

Then keep coming to Me in your imagination and "seeing" it happening. I will show you how much I can do to you by using your imagination in "co-laboring" with Me. Then, we will apply your imagination to MUCH MORE! Then you will have the faith to believe for that much more…because you will daily SEE and KNOW the transformation I have done in your body and soul. It is My thought and My plan for you, and it is good.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. (Proverbs 2:7-8)

A DREAM ABOUT BLUE THROW RUGS
* * * * * * * *

I was at a school. I had a large box and in it were throw rugs of different colors. I gave them to people but I saved the blue ones for my own use in my room. 

Rugs are something to stand on. For me - revelation (blue) is what I want to stand on. Throw rugs are ones you can pick up and take with you, so these represent something I can take with me wherever I go. A rug can symbolize a covering or covenant.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. (Proverbs 3:9-10)

A DREAM ABOUT A PICTURE TAKEN AFTER THE NEW YEAR BEGINS
* * * * * * * *

It was New Year's Eve and I was waiting at Sharon Earl's house. She came back around 1:10. Then I put on clothes of hers for a picture she was taking of me. I saw myself in a red party dress with black lace over it and with white stockings.

Sharon represents a good friend in childhood. Sharon means "vision of beauty," and Earl means "reflected image." This could symbolize my reflecting the beauty of Jesus in this picture.

The time indicates it is just after a new year begins. A new year may refer to a "new season" in the Lord's timing for me. The picture may refer to my imagination (to see a picture) and God has been teaching me about using my imagination to co-labor with Him. This is a picture of me in a red party dress which could symbolize passion and celebration. Black lace could symbolize mystery, or it may allude to a sensitive and delicate nature.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. (Proverbs 4:18)

A DREAM ABOUT BEING PREGNANT
* * * * * * * *

I saw three pregnant women getting food to grow their babies. They were not married -- without an earthly husband. Someone (Holy Spirit?) blew wind to us with His arms. The wind entered us as food to grow our babies. I was 34-35 years old and was the 3rd in line of the three women…the one on the right end.

I think this dream refers to the "mother heart of God" which He spoke about yesterday in my QT. In this dream I am pregnant with this mother heart being formed in me. This doesn't come through an earthly husband, but a heavenly husband - the Lord Himself. His Spirit moves the wind into us and causes the babies to grow. Since there were three women and three babies, this symbolizes the Trinity, the Godhead. My age refers to being in my "30's" and the 3rd in line also emphasizes the number 3…all symbolizing the Godhead…that this is from God. Being on the right can refer to the power of God revealed through flesh, the natural. It also can refer to being "accepted."

I want you to get the picture in your mind of yourself as a beautiful image reflecting Me to others as in a picture…one who is pregnant with My life and Spirit, and one who is standing on My revelation and taking it with you wherever you go.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

JOURNAL 4-28-06 Friday

As I began my meditation time the Holy Spirit asked me a question…

What is today, Joan?

I thought of some possibilities: 

1. Almost the end of the month? 

2. The end of the time for writing Part 4 of my current book In His Time? 

3. Almost 2 years from the date (May 1, 2004) when You told me to begin writing my first book - Thoughts and Stories on a Life God Leads, Guides, and Protects?

Yes, that's it. I want you to think back over what has taken place in the last 2 years of writing with and for Me. What have we done in two years? 

We have: 
•	set you up as a writer, 
•	given you lots of practice and experience of writing and formatting books, 
•	gotten you freed up to share most of what I show you with others, 
•	gotten some people aware of your books and you as a writer, 
•	and we have listened together and talked together and sought God together almost daily. 

Has anything come from all this? Yes, I tell you. Many good things have come from this, and you have been faithful to work with Me for close to two years now. I will reward your faithfulness as My servant and My friend. 

I will now pour out much more favor upon you and teach you many new things, and enable you to experience many new things. Then you can write about them for others to know about those possibilities too. How do you know about new possibilities that you haven't experienced unless someone else tells you or you read what they have written? In the same way, others will know about possibilities spiritually that they can experience too. 

I want you to do this - keep writing with Me all that I show you and have you experience to leave a written record for others to find. I will need to be the one to promote your writings to the right people at the right times, and I will do that part. I don't expect you to promote them. I will do that.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. (Proverbs 3:12)

A DREAM ABOUT SEEING A QUILT WITH A PICTURE OF THE LAST SUPPER
* * * * * * * *

In this dream I seemed to work at one school in the morning, but had just recently gotten another job teaching at a second school in the afternoon. I went back to the first school and the principal (seemed like James) was showing me a new quilt-like area that was just added to a display there which was outside the front entranceway on the sidewalk. It was a lovely looking quilt. There was one section that went at a 45% angle to the other quilt blocks, that was the picture of the Last Supper. The rest of the quilt blocks were white background with pastel colored decorations which seemed to be mostly pink. 

In this dream I was the person doing the action mainly, so it seems to be about me. It indicated I had two places of learning and training others, two places of being educated. I think this could refer to my church as one school of learning, and all those things I do outside the church (i.e. books, CD's, meditation, reading the Word, etc.) as a second school of learning. The spiritual meaning of the principal's name seems to refer to being nurtured or nurturing others. 

The quilt refers my personal manner of acceptance and inner comfort. The main picture block on the quilt (the Last Supper) reveals the importance of being Jesus' disciple and listening to His words, having communion with him, and "doing this in remembrance of Me." This was the main feature of this dream. The white quilt blocks with pink decorations showed that purity and having a heart of flesh toward God were important for my inner acceptance and comfort. Since the quilt was outside the front door, it showed this as being in the future and being necessary for continuing to enter the school of God's training. A key scripture, coming from the reference to the name James, is: Psalm 23:4 "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

The focus of this dream is to encourage me and remind me to keep my focus on Jesus and His disciples at the Last Supper and all that means to me.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. (Proverbs 8:34-35)

A STORY ABOUT THE MYSTERY OF AN ODOR IN THE KITCHEN
* * * * * * * *

Day by day I became aware of a mild odor in the kitchen that was not pleasant. I tried to find the source of the odor as I sniffed my way around the kitchen. It became apparent the odor was coming from the left side of the refrigerator-freezer, but I saw nothing that would create such an odor. Day after day the odor became stronger and less pleasant and I searched harder. I checked the insides of the freezer and the refrigerator to see if there was and food spoiling or something which would explain the odor. Nothing!

Finally my daughter became aware of the odor also when she was in the kitchen, and we talked about what might have caused this. We felt it was from the refrigerator-freezer, so I got out the appliance book and turned to the "trouble shooting" section. Nothing it described fit our situation. I did read about taking the grilling off the front of the condenser at the bottom and vacuuming that area, so my daughter did that on her day off work. But we saw no improvement.

My daughter called the repair service and asked their advice as she described our problem, but they didn't have much advice other than what we had already done or still planned to try.

The next thing we tried was to have a friend come over and pull out the appliance so we could clean and look behind and under it. Since this was a new appliance of about two years of age, we didn't think this should be necessary, but we did it just in case "some critter" had gotten in that area. But this showed nothing also.

What was this, Lord? 

I stood in the kitchen one day after all these efforts had been tried and asked the Lord if He would show me what was causing the odor. My attention was immediately alerted to two items on magnets which Beth had stuck to the left side of the appliance - the exact side where we smelled the odor. They were both items sent to her by a missionary friend who served in the Orient. One had Oriental kanji (words) on it and they were words which we couldn't read. I remembered that I had previously looked at that item with those unknown words and had the thought come that it wasn't good for that to be on the appliance since we didn't know what it said. Beth had trusted it to be ok since it was sent by a Christian missionary friend. 

I immediately took those two items from the Orient off the refrigerator and told Beth about the idea that they might have something to do with the odor. We both knew that demonic spirits could possibly be attached to them and come into our house through those two items. We prayed for cleansing from any demonic influences that were allowed into our house through those items. They were put into the trash and taken out to the garage. After the trash was picked up and taken away, the odor disappeared! We felt God had given us our answer!

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. (Proverbs 8:10-11)

This is the second part of the article by Craig Kinsley which I included on Friday, April 21st.

SANCTIFYING THE IMAGINATION - PART 2: CONCLUSION

Date: April 24, 2006

This week in Part 2 of Sanctifying the Imagination, Craig Kinsley, an associate of Fresh Fire Ministries discusses what it takes to maintain a pure heart so that our imaginations are sanctified. Craig will challenge you to identify any carnal areas in your life, root them out, and then nourish those areas with a heavenly mindset. Craig’s biography is at the close of this teaching. 

SANCTIFYING THE IMAGINATION
BY CRAIG KINSLEY
PART 2: CONCLUSION

Yes, it’s God’s desire to halt the notion that using our imagination is somehow forbidden or that the imagination is just meant for little children to enjoy! Instead, God wants us to use our imagination, but first and foremost, before we do so, He wants to redeem it. Then we’ll be in the right position to engage our imagination properly because it’s sanctified and set apart for God’s purposes, holy unto Him.

You will recall that last week we discussed the importance of having a sanctified imagination and a willing mind that is open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Such receptivity (openness) goes hand in hand with possessing an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit, and consequently, walking in true prophetic ministry. 

Also, as we concluded last week’s teaching, I spoke about the fact that God wants to alert us to the dangers of entertaining a carnal imagination. Carnality involves a worldly or fleshly lifestyle and it adversely affects and ruins our ability to maintain a pure stream of God’s prophetic revelation. Still, and this is even more important, it is imperative to root out carnality because it aborts intimacy with God and leads to deception.

THE DANGER OF A CARNAL IMAGINATION

God has perceived, right from the beginning, that mankind has so often given in to carnality. For example, as the Lord smelled the soothing aroma of Noah’s sacrifice after the flood waters subsided, this is what He said in His heart: “I will never again curse the ground for man’s sake, although the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth; nor will I again destroy every living thing as I have done.” (Gen. 8:21).

Many centuries ago, in the time of Noah, the reason God sent the flood was because of the imagination of the people’s hearts. It wasn’t necessarily just their actions that got God’s attention. Their actions resulted from what was in their heart. And their heart was full of evil imaginations!

In our day, carnality still flourishes, and the danger of having a carnal or worldly imagination needs to be addressed in the Church today. Many Christians pride themselves in the good they have done and the bad they haven’t done. But this fact remains: many live a life of fear, anxiety, lust, pride, and hate, in their imaginations.

When our imaginations are full of these types of worldly ideals, it limits our relationship and communion with the Father. If our imagination is full of “junk,” everything that comes through our imagination is filtered through that junk. Therefore, how we think about others, and even about God, becomes skewed by the carnality of our thoughts.

WHAT GOES IN, COMES OUT

Remember our principle of, “what you behold, you become”? When we set evil before our eyes, the Bible says that it actually “clings” to us. “I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me” (Ps. 101:3). This should put the fear of the Lord in us!

With the ever-increasing evil that is blatantly portrayed in society, we have to be more careful than ever. Seventy-five percent of homes in America have the internet, which means that most of America’s population have access to pornography and all types of evil right at their finger tips. Not to mention the worldly values, violence and sexual perversion that fill television and Hollywood.

Each time that wickedness is set before your eyes it clings to you. Your imagination takes a “snap shot” of that image and stores it in your mind. When the Lord desires to commune with you through your imagination, His voice has to be filtered through each and every one of these images!

Continual participation in such darkness ruins our conscience. Let’s look at the warning spoken by Paul to his spiritual son, Timothy: “Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron” (1 Tim. 4:1, 2).

Wow! What a powerful scripture. The Spirit, speaking of the latter days, expresses that when we allow ourselves to come under the influence of sin and evil, our conscience is seared as with a hot iron. Now, what does this mean? After all, the conscience is our awareness of what is right and wrong in the sight of God, but when our conscience is seared, we become desensitized to what the will of God is. If we continually sear our conscious we will begin to actually believe that our unholy actions are acceptable before the Lord. The more we give in to these temptations, the more likely we are to continue in them.

Now I want to specifically touch on three evil issues that permeate our society today—pornography, violence and pride: 

1.	Pornography affects millions of men and even women. Everyday the accessibility of pornography is increasing and we can even find it on network television channels. We should not expect this to stop. It is only going to increase; and days like these can be likened to the days of Noah that Jesus spoke about (Matt. 24:37–39). The days of Noah were evil! So we need to stop, look and listen, because every sinful image that we behold sears our conscience and clings to our imagination. We each have to draw a line in the sand and make a decision that we will shield our eyes from this evil pervasion.

2.	In the same way as pornography affects our imagination, so does violence. Most people would say that when they see horrific violence on movies and television that it doesn’t affect them. I would disagree. Look at how God views violence: “The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth” (Gen. 6:11, 12). Corruption and violence go together. God not only saw the corruption, He saw the violence and all of this caused Him to take drastic action.

You might think that violence in movies and on television will not cause you to commit the same kind of violence. But it definitely becomes a part of your imagination. There was a time in my life when I had to go back through all of the horror movies I had watched and cleanse my imagination of the images through prayer and scripture.

3.	You might be surprised, but pride of the heart is a dangerous and deceitful issue. Though someone may seem humble by their words and actions, the Lord sees the thoughts of the heart. “He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts” (Luke 1:51). It is in the heart where both pride and humility are found. We need to deal with any pride issues.

TRAUMATIC AND PAINFUL EVENTS

Many times images and painful events will clog our imaginations and it might not even be because of our own willing sin. Sometimes these events occur during our childhood when our imaginations are most vulnerable. Psychologists call this our “cognitive” years. This is the time in our life when painful events can cause hurt and turmoil in our hearts for years to come. In the same way that sin affects our imagination, I believe that traumatic events cause an even deeper effect. An example of this would be an instance of molestation. Almost everyone will agree that when a child is sexually abused, the effects of that abuse follow the child for the whole of his or her life. (Jesus can free us from traumatic events, and I will explain how, further along in the teaching under Rooting up and Pulling Out.)

I know many people who say that some of these events are what come to mind when they attempt to go to sleep at night. So instead of setting their thoughts on God, they begin to dwell on the pain of the event. When traumatic instances permeate our imagination like this, it affects the way we view God. If sexual abuse came from a father, the child will have a hard time coming into a revelation of God as Father, a good Father, until the effects of the abuse are broken.

SANCTIFYING THE IMAGINATION

Under the blood of Jesus, evil has no power over us except the power we give it. If evil does take hold of us and it tries to hang on, we can deal with it through prayer, deliverance and repentance. We can be freed from the evil that has clung to us! So be careful not to come into fear that there is no way out. Jesus came to bring freedom. When you become free in your imagination, you will actually notice just how much this bondage has affected your life and your walk with God. You are going to come into higher levels of revelation and will know the will of God for your life more than ever.

ROOTING UP AND PULLING OUT

Most of the “junk” that has clouded our imagination continues to put us into bondage because we have not dealt with the core issues. Many of you might not even realize that you have a problem. The first step in deliverance should be repentance. When we come before the Lord in prayer and repentance with a desire to be set free, the Spirit will actually begin to bring to mind some of the images and events. You might have even had this happen before while in prayer or meditation. You may have instantly thought those images were sinful and tried to push them back. But the reality is that remembering them is actually the Lord’s doing because He wants to root up and pull out what is holding you bound! The images and events are brought up to show you where the problems are so you can handle them one by one.

My wife went through an experience like that. As she lay down to sleep, the Lord began to bring up instances and pictures from as far back as when she was 3 and 4 years old. Instead of trying to push the events aside because of the pain, she allowed the Lord to root them out. For that hour and a half she went through a sovereign process of deliverance. I was still awake in the living room while this was happening. When she came out of the room to tell me what had happened, I could physically see the change on her face. She was glowing with the glory of God.

Ever since that time, I have seen an increase in her relationship with the Lord and a gift of discernment at an accelerated rate. She has been set free from things that held her since childhood. Many of these issues she did not even realize were holding her back. Today she has given me permission to share this story as a testimony to the power of the sanctified imagination.

Furthermore, I have to warn you that this process of rooting up and pulling out will be painful. When the Lord begins to surface certain memories, it will hurt. When we remember a past event, we will experience the same feeling and atmosphere of that event. The pain is part of the process of deliverance. Let it come, repent and then give it to Jesus. You might experience event after event coming in a single time of prayer. Let each one come and then give it to the Lord.

THE POWER OF REMEMBRANCE

Yes, there is power released for deep healing when we remember traumatic past experiences. But let’s not forget the holy encounters we have. When we remember a holy incident with God, or a special time in His presence, it has the power to bring that same atmosphere and power to our present circumstances. There was a time in the Gospels when the disciples were complaining about what they would eat. This was right after Jesus had fed the four-thousand (and performed other miracles). Jesus responded to them in this way, “Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember?” (Mark 8:18) If only they had remembered the miracles! Then they would have remembered, also, that God had the power to take care of them and feed them.

As you go through the process of having your imagination sanctified, fill it with the good things of God. Fill your imaginations with the encouraging words that have been spoken over you. Begin to fill your imagination with all of the miracles He has done in your life. Remember the time that He saved you. Remember that special time when you encountered Him. Remember when you first experienced His presence. As you meditate, the power of those moments will come into your life today!

FILL YOUR IMAGINATION WITH THE WORD OF THE LORD

When I speak of the word of the Lord, I am talking about both the prophetic and the written Word. If you have prophetic words recorded, make sure to get them out and remember what God has spoken over your life. In the process of sanctifying your mind, you might try writing encouraging scriptures on note cards. Don’t just memorize the verses, but make it a spiritual practice of actually praying the scriptures to the Lord. Fill your imagination with the truths of God.

A HEAVENLY MINDSET

Well now that you are cleansing your imagination, wait on the Lord and let Him speak to you. Remember, also, the message of Paul to the Colossian church; a message that tells us to “seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1). When we seek those things which are above, where Christ is, our minds are being trained to be heavenly minded.

I could spend hours talking about developing a heavenly mindset. This is one of the most important truths for our time, especially when it involves spiritual warfare. I do not want you to come out of this teaching thinking that there is a “demon behind every bush.” I want you to simply seek to have your mind freed and sanctified through Jesus Christ so that you can commune in a closer way with Him.

I meet many people who spend hours rebuking the devil and trying to figure out what type of demon is attacking their life. The spiritual encounters that they seem to have are always related to the demonic realm. They see demons and strongholds in people’s lives. Now, I see and sense these things as well and I do not want to downplay the need for discernment, but most of the time when I ask them how many angels compared to demons they see, the demons far outnumber the angels. Why is this? I believe it is because of what they set their thoughts on. When it comes to spiritual warfare, I tend to look at the greatness of God and hosts of heaven compared to the limited power of the enemy. We must develop a mindset that is set on heavenly things. When we do this it changes our perspective from a carnal one to a kingdom one.

Now, as we bring this teaching series to a close, I want to invite you to take some time in prayer before the Lord right now. As you pray along with me, you might even sense the Lord beginning to deal with issues of your heart in order to fully sanctify your imagination for His purposes!

PRAYER
Father, I set my focus on You. I set my mind on the things of heaven. I ask that You would begin to root up and pull out the evil that has clouded my imagination. My desire is that I will be set free to fully commune with You. My heart is so hungry to know You in a greater way. I desire deeper levels of revelation and understanding. I repent of the evil I have beheld with my eyes. Cleanse my conscience and my heart. Bring conviction to the areas that You desire to bring deliverance to. I surrender my imagination into Your hands today. Give me clean hands and a pure heart. Fill me with Your presence and Your GLORY! Amen!

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

I will guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. (Proverbs 4:11)

JOURNAL 4-30-06 Sunday

A DREAM ABOUT A BEECH TREE WITH TWO PINE TREES GROWING FROM ITS ROOTS
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In this dream I saw a beech tree growing in the garden at my childhood home. It was a large tree and had roots. On the roots grew two smaller pine trees. It seemed we were discussing cutting one of the three trees down to use for a Christmas tree. We were trying to speculate which tree would fit the size needed in the living room. Although I discussed this with someone else I don't remember any specific person in the dream. It was mostly just what I saw, without actions.

•	Tree: leader, leadership, person or covering, shelter
•	Evergreen tree; eternal life, immortal
•	Christmas: gift, season of rejoicing, spiritual gifts, a surprise, good will, benevolence
•	Two: multiplication, division, divide, judge, separate, discern
•	Roots: attitude, hidden, conviction, steadfastness, pure motive, cause, reason, source, stable, unmovable.
•	Beech tree: signifies lessons experienced

Information about a beech tree: smooth silvery gray bark, golden fall foliage, beechnuts, large branches, much shade from leaves, roots near top or on top of ground, need to be planted in a large space due to size, slow growing but can live hundreds of years, edible food for animals and people, the word Beech can refer to a book or a tree as the ancient writings were on Beechen boards

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Quotes from "Beech Tree" search at Google:

The name Beech is in early English boc, bece, or beoce; in German Buche, and in Swedish bok, and signifies either a book or the tree, the two senses being supposed to be connected by the fact that the ancient Runic writings were engraved upon beechen boards. "The origin of the word," says Dr. Prior in his "Popular Names of British Plants," "is identical with that of the Sanskrit boko, letter, bokos, writings."

The Beech requires a thoroughly drained soil, and accordingly flourishes on high ground, whether calcareous or sandy. Its gray stems may thus be seen--often of great girth--throwing out their spreading roots.

Its roots spread far and close together to gain a firm footing that the gale can seldom overcome.

…the glossy surfaces of the leaves, reflecting every glint of sunshine.

Hollies and other evergreens, bracken and brambles will grow beneath its shade, and it must not be forgotten that it is a tree which, for the development of its highest beauty, should occupy an isolated position.

The autumnal splendor of every other tree fades before that of the Beech, which continues the longest of all, and under particular circumstances is of the most brilliant description. This arises from its lucid leaves, which vary in hue from auburn to gold color and umber, reflecting back the level rays of the descending sun, and thus burning with pre-eminent luster, like a sudden illumination. 
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Does this beech tree refer to me, Lord?

Yes. It can refer to your books and to you. You flourish on high ground. You throw out spreading roots that gain a firm footing that the gale can seldom overcome. You reflect the Son's shine. You occupy an isolated position. Hollies and other evergreens can grow beneath you. You give off fruit that is edible. You have been slow growing but can live a long time. Your books have been slow growing but will live a long time and give off a reflection of My shine/glory. Now, what grew from the roots of the beech tree in your dream? Evergreen trees represent eternal life/immortal. From you, especially through your books, will come words that bring eternal life to others. In this case two represents multiplication (of eternal life coming from the beech tree). This is a prophetic picture of you and your writing ministry for Me. The Christmas tree part of the dream refers to the giving of gifts to others through the beech tree - you.

SCRIPTURE FOR MEDITATION

The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, "The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him." (Psalm 92:12-15)