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The Princess Within Conference, By Nila Marxer

Two of my sisters, Nila Marxer and Carlene Branham just returned from the “Princess Within Conference” in Corona, Californina. This blog is part of Nila’s letter to me today about her experience with the inmates at the conference.

Nila Marxer

This prison field is filled with so many hungry women. There were 30 women who received the Holy Ghost for the first time, 18 renewed, and 12 signed up for baptism! We’ve been trying to get into this prison for almost 20 years, and finally we’ve had a breakthrough. Actually, women from this prison and the Chowchilla prison have been fasting on the 25th of every month for years for a Holy Ghost church service to come to the prisons.

I was humbled by their hunger and desire to hear the Word and to be loved.

The first picture was the entire group minus 2 people. The second was the Sunday morning picture of those who went. A lot had to go back home.

Fear will keep many people from doing the will of God and fulfilling His purpose for their life. Don’t say you want to be used of God, and not be willing to do what is needed to further the kingdom.

My life will never be the same. I went to the Princess Within Conference in Corona this weekend with anticipation of helping others, when in fact this experience helped me more than words can express.

Prayer and fasting had gone up for this conference, and when we completed the process of entering into the prison, setting up the equipment and chairs and setting out water bottles and sweets for each prisoner, you could already feel a powerful move of the Holy Ghost. Whitney Rhinehart began practicing songs, and others joined in. Everyone was involved. We did not come just to be a warm body, but we were needed. Those of us who had finished setting up were prayerfully awaiting the prisoners. When the door opened, and the women began filing in, worship had already filled the room. Some of the prisoners were worshiping and clapping as they began to find a seat. At first it took a while for the majority of the women to show up, because it was taco night, and they all wanted to eat the only good meal of the week. (The enemy was using everything to try to hinder this conference.)

The volunteers lined up to give gifts, shake everyone’s hand, welcome them, and thank them for coming. Some were shy, but you could see the majority of the prisoners craved love. Each song was effective, each sermon was powerfully anointed, and no one left unmoved. They came in worshiping like I haven’t seen in a regular church setting. Not just a few raised their hands, but every hand was raised, everyone clapped, everyone worshiped.

The first thing I noticed about the women, was that they looked like normal women, not like hardened criminals that I imagined. The majority of these women carried Bibles. Some of these Bibles were well-read and falling apart. In many of them, I could see various pages of notes stuck in-between the pages. I thought how many of us church people will go to church without our Bibles? How many church people take time to read God’s Word? Some of these women took notes on every scripture reference, and would look at their friends when a specific verse was mentioned, and would finish the scripture, reciting along with the various ministers. These women were well-acquainted with the Word, yet they were starving. Starving for the preached Word, starving for worship, starving for love, starving to feel the power of the Holy Ghost. My heart was lost to them within the first five minutes of meeting them.

On the first night, the preacher finished preaching, and opened the front for those who wanted the Holy Ghost. The women poured down to the altar. We volunteers stood in the front facing them, and soon were inundated by scores of women who wanted prayer. As soon as one received the Holy Ghost, there were many women all around them with their arms raised asking for prayer. I couldn’t stop crying as one by one these women were receiving the Holy Ghost. They fell on my neck, thanking me for coming, and showing them love. I wept with them, knowing they were my sisters-in-the-Lord. Not only did they need me, I needed them.
Before I walked into the prison yard, I had felt some apprehension, not knowing how this was going to unfold, but I can’t begin to explain the joy I had in being involved in this prison ministry, and the hunger I have to go back and continue to spread this precious Truth!

I was humbled by some of the testimonies I heard. Chaffey College was having a graduation ceremony at the same time we were having the Saturday morning service. One of the girls told me she was graduating with her bachelor’s degree. She said, “I had to make a decision whether I was going to walk and get my diploma, or come to church.” She was crying as she spoke, saying, “It was an easy decision to make. They can always mail me my diploma, but there won’t always be a Holy Ghost church service.”

Another girl said that she got her diploma, (missing the early morning session.) She hadn’t seen her family for seven years. Her family had come a long way to see her graduate and spend a little time with her. Knowing how little time these prisoners get to see their loved ones, the few moments together are cherished. Yet, this young lady walked down the aisle, got her degree, and then told her folks goodbye, because she had to go to church.

These testimonies gripped my heart, because those women cherish church above everything. So many women thanked me for loving them. (They were so easy to love.)

The first night I came home, I couldn’t sleep, seeing their faces lifted in prayer, feeling their hugs, and them gripping my hands tearfully asking me not to forget to pray for them. How can I forget?

It was during a worship song on Saturday when I felt God speak to me that I need to focus on His work. I had been focusing on my son who has been bound by sin and desperately needs deliverance. If I will focus on His kingdom and the souls that He loves, then He will focus on my prayers for my family and those that I love. It’s a win-win situation.

The last prisoner spoke to me as they were leaving and said that many churches have come to the prison, but never in her life has she felt such power and such love. She said, the love affected her more than anything. She felt loved by God, and by His people. She wondered why she had never felt love like this before.

I told her, “Honey, it’s the Holy Ghost love that you feel.”
My mind went back to the scripture, “This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” (John 15:12 KJV) Oh, how He loves us, and them!

She said, “It has to be, because I’ve never seen anything like this in all my life. Please don’t forget us. Please come back and help us learn more!”

I thought of the scripture that says:
“Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.”
Matthew 25:41-43 KJV

May that never be said about me. Lord, I will go.

Nila Marxer

Written by Martyn Ballestero

June 4, 2019 at 7:49 pm

What Type Of Spiritual Leader Are You?

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Guest Blog By Ramona Yandris

Ramona Yandris

My Sister, Ramona Yandris is married to Bishop Nathan Yandris. They have served for many years at Faith Tabernacle Apostolic Church, Tracy, CA. She has served a lifetime as a gifted Speaker, Musician, Singer, and Music Director. May her words be a blessing to you!

What Type Of Spiritual Leader Are You?

This is in no way meant to reference any one person… this is just the musings and thoughts while studying God’s Word.

Great Spiritual Leadership has always caused a great and notable outcome! It is getting harder to find Spiritual leaders that rise up in this day and age and lead with no guile. (Hear me out before you judge) But when they do… The Miraculous happens! In this day, when pulpit ministry looks so glamorous….when crowds follow speakers to every conference to “hear” a sermon… then we raise up a “glorified speaker!”

If that same speaker… builds a church… rolls up his sleeves… also puts his shoulder to the wheel, outreaches his own community, tends to his own flock tirelessly, prays for the sick, gives to the poor, lifts a hand to the down and out, builds faith and instills Gods Word in his congregation and actually “Leads” then he raises up ministers and workers in the “Harvest” under him who also will replicate his work!

We learn so much from each leader…

Some are called to evangelize…
Some are called to be Apostles…
Some are called to Pastor…
Some are called as Prophets…
Some are called to teach…

Then there are secondary leaders, those who are called to “help.” Someone who feels supporting the ministry they were called into as essential in upholding the arms of God’s man! They defend Him. They take the load off of him. They love him for what he is and are loyal to the cause, seeking nothing in return! This is a rare gem in ministry to find such a secondary leader as most only want advancement and the ultimate spotlight. Although most are called to advance further, it is refreshing and a blessing to see someone understand and walk in this secondary leadership role hand in hand with God’s appointed leader.

Sadly, in this day we rely on a vote for a man (most times it is necessary) and have gotten away from a man who was so in tune with the Holy Ghost that he could say with power and knowledge, “God has called me to ???,” and then wade through many adversities until a monument for Christ is built to Glorify God and win the lost! My proverbial hat is off to church builders who work it from the ground up. They literally give everything to the Kingdom of God. The next man stepping in reaps the rewards with no labor… seems not fair… right?

I began to think what story certain leaders in the Bible left us with that revealed traits like character, strength, honor, dishonor, compassion, True Agape love, dishonest, Loyal/disloyal, offended, cruel, harsh, gentle, Anointed, prayerful, righteous, lovers of God more than lovers of self, and steadfast. I ask myself, “How do so many with these obvious human flaws get used by God?” See, we humans think “YOU” (we don’t include ourselves in that exclusion) have to be perfect before we can be “used.” There are so many places God can use us all! We just have to first know and always remind ourselves that “Kingdom First” should be our motto.

If someone sings better than you, don’t attack them and use jealous tactics to get the part you crave. Be a team member in ministry!

Be the first to give up your seat at the piano/organ/bass/guitar/drums/bongos/tambourine/etc. if someone else can more skillfully bring others to worship. Yes, there is a place for us all but none of us own our positions. We should all ultimately be on the “Kingdom Team” and want God Glorified!

He literally can use ANYBODY! It just takes a WILLING and Anointed VESSEL!

So, in each church leadership, you might recognize some of the following traits in these biblical examples. See where you fit in or where you recognize the reference.

Let us also not be so quick to point our finger at the reference of others. There are always at least a few fingers pointing back at us. That is humbling!

Here goes…

The Elijah Leader!!!!

1 Kings 18:22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.

Some are like Elijah. They operate in hopelessness. They think they are doing it all alone. They whine and gripe that they do it alone. They simply do not know how to delegate and use others. Sometimes God has to remind them that He has many more doing the same thing! We are not in this alone! We need and use each other to advance not our Kingdom but rather God’s Kingdom!

The Jezebel (wannabe) Leader

Jezebel. This spirit wants to control everything and everyone! It can be male or female.

Every spirit of control in the church that does not line up with the pulpit, the man of God and God’s Word is OUT OF ORDER! You are an accident waiting to happen! You cannot muzzle the Ox (referring to the pastor), nor can you insert your control over the man of God and the departments of the church! God will see to it that you and your household will come to ruin. You simply have the wrong spirit and outlook on God’s man and His Work! If you don’t love the man of God (your pastor), then how can you say you love God? Don’t worry though pastor… God’s got this. You just keep right on working for the Kingdom. The Jezebels will fall by the wayside and the church will roll right on!

The Jonah Leader!

Jonah leaders run from responsibilities. Oh, how easy this temptation is for humanity. Like the saying, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!” In this day of ease, most don’t stick it out. They crash and burn at the first sight of trouble! Their blinders have been removed and they get overwhelmed at the very thought of the “work set before them!” They forgot that God promised that His Grace was sufficient for EVERY need! He gives us sometimes (as the song used to say).

“Just enough to take me through one more mile.

Just enough to dry my eyes a little while

When I get home…

I won’t need it.

But as I travel, this weary land

He always gives me

Just enough Grace to stand!”

If God calls you into a difficult ministry or position! Stay the course. Don’t quit or defect EVERY-TIME you think someone is talking about you, or you have adversity.

If God calls you TO it,

He will bring you THROUGH it!

Stay the course and quit being a QUITTER!

The Moses Leader!!!!

Moses let anger lead. So many events happen in our lives as ministry that brings us to anger. Yet, the scripture says “Let he who rules WELL be worthy of DOUBLE Honor!” The decisions a pastor makes has to be from a clear head. We may have our own personal opinions about someone but remember the person you are angry at is STILL a child of God and your outburst of anger can not only cause defeat in your flock but can also keep you from where God actually intended for you to attain to in your own promised land! If people disappoint us and walk away, let them go. Let them go! Let them go! Not everybody fits our unique circle or within the personality of a church. Don’t assault them with unkind and angry words. We bless them and pray God’s best for their life. It doesn’t mean you have to have contact. In fact, it’s best to not. What’s the point? It keeps your anger and bitterness at Bay. So, allow people to go and flourish elsewhere. God always sends a replacement usually sooner than later who will be faithful.

The Saul Leader!

Saul tried to destroy other anointed leaders. This is one of the most commonly used tactics among ministry today. If someone is offended at you for ANY reason, the petty flesh tries to tear down a person’s reputation. If they can destroy you among the brethren then you just might quit coming around. If you will quit coming around then they can remain “King of the Roost!” This type of man (or woman) is definitely not Kingdom minded and seeks only to elevate themselves! They also promote their flock to honor only them and have “preacher worship” mentality. A premiere flock (and a tribute to the former pastor) is one who stays and is loyal to the Kingdom in spite of XYZ! Love and honor your pastor (this is Biblical), but don’t have preacher worship! Have God worship! He shares His Glory with NO ONE!

The Judas Leader!!!

Judas… untrustworthy! Reveals secrets to wound another to gain power. Will sell you out for advancement or validation! This takes the life out of so many of us. It is a trick of the enemy to cause offense! Yet in the end, the person you are really hurting is yourself! God will fight the Battle of those wronged! He keeps excellent records and you will be judged by your words and your deeds! Keep your tongue in check! If you are a friend to the ministry, be confidential! You are there to support not tear down! If you are a minister and friends with another minister and you have information that tears down the other person… don’t go sell those secrets to the highest bidder. Shut your mouth and pray for your friend! Go to them and in the spirit of love and unity reason with them regarding the error of their ways. Only then have you done what the Scriptures say to do!

Just for the record, the scripture says to “Mark them that cause division among you AND avoid them”. Nowhere does it say if a brother/sister is in error or taken in a fault to mark them and avoid them! Yet, sadly that is what we do and we wonder why the person finally goes to another group… well it just may not be because they WANT an easier way… it just might mean they were treated so unjustly and unscriptural that in their mind, they had no way out. Let’s love people back into our fold… My goodness! Aren’t we tired of the “exit?” It’s not all standard reasons folks…a lot of it is simply offense gone wrong!

The Enoch Leader!

Enoch… had a prayer life unrivaled!

The ministry friends that I have had in this day and age that greatly affected my life are the ministers that had an obvious powerful prayer life. One in particular who was my pastor for a short season was Bro. Verbal Bean… Do you want a demonstration of the Holy Ghost like he had? Get a prayer life like he had! I can name so many men and women of God that has become an icon, not because of their gifting but rather because of their anointing resulting from their prayer life! If you want to be caught up in the Heavens like Enoch, then DAILY walk with God! Don’t leave it to “after service” prayer, but find your own space, your own room, no matter how “Big” you become. Keep that prayer life consistent. You don’t need to “tell” anyone “while I was in prayer today.” Your actions and unction will tell on you!

The Esau Leader!

Esau will sell out cheaply for an easier way. You don’t prepare for the task ahead? You don’t value what you have been given? You take it for granted? Your decisions are based on fleshly desires? Then yes, we have another Esau in our hands. One who will abandon what God meant for him because he wanted to quickly satisfy his flesh! These people will sell out to the first person that will advance them… make their life easier and not make them accountable. This simply speaks for itself! No more words needed here!

The John the Revelator Leader!

John The Revelator works even though abandoned and wounded. Tortured for Christ sake and sent to die alone. This man of God decided I will leave a mark in this world for the sake of the Kingdom. God trusted him that He gave him visions and placed him in a solitary place where his mind and writings were solely devoted to what God gave him. “They” meant it for evil, but God meant it for GOOD!

The struggles and the trials you go through as ministry may not be to destroy you but rather to save the lost coming up behind you. God has a purpose and a plan. If you truly mean for Him to use you, don’t get upset when things go bad. When you can’t see the way, when you can’t figure out the why, just trust Him! We may not understand it until we reach the other side. When you are sold out, you are there to the bitter end.

We better toughen up! As the “Day” approaches we are all going to be that much more offended, hurt, rejected, wounded, talked about, mistreated, persecuted. Instead of giving up… Take up YOUR CROSS, take up a pen… write encouraging words to yourself and to others! Be strong and faint not!

The Peter Leader!

Peter let fear rule his actions

Yes, he was so afraid of Jesus going to the cross that he cut a man’s ear off… (yet he was bold enough to do that). He was so afraid of being found out that he was a disciple that he cursed and lied to prove he was “not of His!” He was so afraid that he never showed up at the cross!

When you are so sensitive that when things do not go your way or turn out like you would like them to, when the dream you had is shattered and fear grips you… affecting your words… your actions… your loyalty… (all of this was nothing more than a lack of faith) yet through all this foolishness… Jesus had great faith in Peter! So many times, Jesus had to emphasise a point to Peter. ”Peter, do you love me?” I often wondered why this line of questioning until you look at the overall high/low passion of Peter. Jesus knew he operated out of passion. Anger/Fear falls under that category. Yet, emotional people can sometimes be the worst friends and worst leaders! They always feel someone is talking about them. They are fatalistic in their words and kill hope and faith every time you converse with them. They are Spiritually Bi-polar! You are exhausted when you leave their presence. But Jesus knew one thing… if He could “channel” the passion Peter had in the right way, then there would be no stopping him.

Knowing that Peter denied Him.
Knowing that Peter disassociated himself from Him.
Knowing that Peter was angry.
Knowing that Peter was offended.
Knowing that the Disciples were offended at Peter.

Yet, when Jesus arose from the tomb he left a “young man, clothed in white” with a special message to the Disciples AND to PETER! See at this point Peter had angered and offended himself (in his own mind) right out of the ministry. Yet Jesus, knowing Peters temperament left an angel to speak to him….to make this reference so the Disciples would accept him back….made special mention to the emotional future powerhouse in Mark16:7….”Go tell the disciples AND PETER that He (Jesus) goeth before you into Galilee”

That was a potential fatal flaw in Peter. Anger and Fear can destroy a ministry… a marriage… a job… if you are in any ministry you MUST keep your emotions in check! Peter was so overwhelmed at Jesus’s tolerance and forgiveness that he was humbled and became a Holy Ghost powerhouse for the Kingdom.

The John the Beloved Leader!

John stayed at the cross even though he could have been arrested. Real leaders walk with you through the fire if you will allow them to! Before Jesus bowed His head and died He looked at His mother and said of John “Woman Behold your son!” Take a look at someone who is sold out and will stay with you even though the odds are stacked against you!

He was one of the first to reach the tomb after Jesus arose.

John 19:26-27

John 20:1-10

Follows Jesus even though the other disciples questioned his involvement…

John 21:20-23

He was one of the 7 fishermen that fished all night when it looked hopeless… yet his persistence paid off when Jesus showed up!

John 21:1-25

Even though the other disciples cut him out of written involvement… he still kept ministering!

No wonder he was the “Beloved” of Jesus! He exemplified more fruit of the Spirit than all of them put together! He was completely “Christlike!

Maybe jealously caused him to be shut out!

So, whatever Style of Leadership you are given to, make sure it lines up with advancing the Kingdom of God! Don’t allow the flesh to rule spiritual things!

Please above all rule in love. Don’t Lord over God’s heritage, nor be a Pharisee! Be humble in spirit and in deed and let God be Glorified in all that we do! If you have no ability to bind people together in love and in unity, you may merely have a desire, not a calling.

This is the Will of God!

Written by Martyn Ballestero

March 9, 2019 at 1:14 pm

Posted in Bitterness, Christian Living, God's House, Leadership, Ministry, Personal Growth, Prayer, Respect, The Call Of God, Unity, Worship

You Might Not Be A Saint!

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You Might Not Be A Saint!

This Is Strong Meat.

So, I may offend some here. (Sorry)

I have no desire to be harsh or unkind.

I’m Going To Be Straight Forward…

Like they preached to me when I was young.
Before anyone heard of being ‘Politically Correct’

A Fact:

Before You Can Be A Saint, You Must Be Born Again.

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Then, After You Receive The Holy Ghost, You’re Called To Be A Saint.

1 Cor. 1:2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

(Side Note: You MUST be a Saint before you can ever be a preacher.)

Being A Saint – That’s Our Calling.

Are You Willing To Accept The Call?

Count the cost if you accept.
Count the cost if you don’t accept.

To Accept The Call And Qualify To Be A Saint…

1.) You Must Be Willing To Do Whatever It Takes To Be A Saint.

I’m talking to everyone.
I don’t care how long you’ve been a church member.

If You’re Just Going To Church:

To get your shout on.
To get your blessing.
For the loaves and the fishes.
For the fellowship.
Because of the great Youth Dept.

Your Actions Describe You More Like A Spiritual Moocher Than A Saint.

If All Church Is For You, Is Just A Place That Gives You Loaves And Fishes…

Then I can’t help you.
Because you most likely will never change.

You Don’t Have To Be A Saint…

But if you choose to be a saint…
You cannot become a saint on your terms!

“Saints Are Not Born, They’re Made” – My Dad Always Said.

If you are a saint…
Or ever become a saint…
It’s because you listened to your pastor!

If You Are A Saint, It’s Because There Was A Change In Your Life.

It may be, “Come as you are,”
But it’s not… “Stay as you are!”
The Gospel is all about change.

(Do you still want to be a saint?)

If You’re Looking For An Easy Route To Heaven,

One that you never have to make a change, inside or out.
One that requires no commitment,
One That requires no submission…

Then you are just looking for a social group that lets you live like you want.

Isa 30:9 That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD:

Isa 30:10 Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:

If That’s You, You Won’t Be Happy In A Real Apostolic Church. You Might As Well Move On Down The Road. Because ALL Of God’s Word Gets Preached In An Apostolic Church.

(Do you still want to be a saint?

Or do you want a compromised and watered-down version of the Word of God

Saints Don’t Argue With The Word, They Submit!

2.) A Saint Always Has A Teachable Spirit.

Jas 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

If You Do Not Have A Teachable Spirit, You Don’t Really Have The Holy Ghost.

3.) A Saint Loves Doctrine.

Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Rom 6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

2 Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Tim. 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

If Doctrine Is Boring To You,

If Doctrine Is Irritating To You,

If Doctrine Seems Unnecessary To You,

If Doctrine Is Harsh To Your Tender Spirit,

Then You’re Not Really A Saint.

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

4.) A Saint Is Willing To Submit God’s Correction.

Heb. 12:7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

Heb. 12:8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

All The Sons Of God Receive Correction.

Because They’re Not Perfect.

Heb. 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Remember, you won’t stand in the judgment by yourself!
Your pastor will be there too. He must give an account of your attitude and spirit.

If Allowing The Word Of God To Correct You Or Your Children Is Unacceptable To You,

Then you’re not really a saint!

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

5.) God Hears The Prayers Of Saints.

Prov. 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

James 5:16… The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

If God Doesn’t Hear Your Prayers,

Then maybe you’re not really a saint.

6.) All Saints Worship.

John 4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

Psa 150:6 Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.

If worship is a problem for you…

You’re not thankful.

2 Tim. 3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

2 Tim 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

2 Tim. 3:3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,

2 Tim. 3:4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

2 Tim. 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Then you’re not really a saint.

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

7.) If You Say You’re Not Being Fed…

It’s because you’re not a saint!

A saint always obeys and is willing.

Isa. 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:

8.) If Holiness Is Debatable Or Just Something That Is Only A Personal Conviction To You.

Then you’re not really a saint.

Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Holiness is God’s lowest standard.

1 Pet. 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:

1 Pet. 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; (lifestyle)

1 Pet. 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

If you have a problem with Holiness,

Then you’re not really a saint

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

9.) If Wearing Modest Apparel Is Not Your Style Of Dress And You Refuse To Change…

Then you’re not really a saint.

1Tim. 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

Shamefacedness =

a sense of shame,
ability to blush

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

10.) If Your Life Is Wrapped Up In Hollywood, Sports, And Worldly pleasures,

You’re not a saint.

Ball Games

If you go to a sports event, your heart will beat with the heart of the world.

Saints don’t want their heart beating with the world’s heart, only God’s heart.

Hollywood

Saints do not bring Hollywood into their homes, regardless of whatever format it comes in.

1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

If The Love Of The Father Is Not In You…

Then you’re not really a saint.

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

11.) If A Woman Thinks That Wearing Men’s Apparel Is Not A Problem,

And She Defies The Scriptures…

Deut. 22:5 The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God.

Then she is not a saint.

If he wears women’s clothing, then he’s not a saint.

12.) If A Man Thinks It’s Ok To Let His Hair Grow Long,

Then he’s not really a saint.

1 Cor. 11:14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?

13.) If A Woman Cuts Her Hair,

Then she’s not really a saint.

1 Cor. 11:15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.

1 Cor. 11:5 But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.

1 Cor. 11:6 For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.

If You Cut Your Hair, Sister, You’re Not Really A Saint

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

14.) If Jewelry, Ornamentation, And The Wearing Of Gold Is Your World…

Then you’re not really a saint.

1 Pet. 3:3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

(Adorning Definition = World)

1 Pet. 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

Every Time Israel Drew Close To God, They Took Off Their Ornaments.

Every Time They Backslid, They Put Them On.

Gen 35:1 And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.

Gen 35:2 Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments:

Gen 35:3 And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.

Gen 35:4 And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem.

Hos 2:13 And I will visit upon her the days of Baalim, wherein she burned incense to them, and she decked herself with her earrings and her jewels, and she went after her lovers, and forgat me, saith the LORD.

(The wearing of earrings was associated with Baal worship. That’s why Jacob’s wives gave him their earrings when they surrendered their idols of Baal.)

If keeping your jewelry is your thing,

You’re not really a saint.

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

15.) Real Saints Don’t Rob God.

Mal. 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.

Mal. 3:9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.

Mal. 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

If you are a God-Robber, You’re not really a saint.

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

16.) If You Are A Tale Bearer Or Critical, And Say Negative Things About The Church Or The Pastor…

Lev 19:16 Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.

If you’re a gossiper, you’re not a saint.

You will be shunned.

1 Co 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

If you’re a critic of what your pastor does,

You’re not a saint.

A saint is a pastor’s friend.

If You’re A Railer And Gossiper,

You will be shunned.

Because You’re Not Really A Saint.

17.) If You Think You Are On The Same Level As Your Pastor Then You’re Not A Saint.

Heb 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

You are not a saint.

(It does not matter the number of degrees you have, you will never be equal to your man of God.)

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

18.) If You Cannot Forgive, You Are Not A Saint.

Matt. 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:

Matt. 6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

(So, do you still want to be a saint?)

19.) Saints Love One Another.

Unity cannot happen without loving one another. Without unity, no church can enjoy lasting revival.

If you are unable to love your brother or sister, you’re not a saint.

If you can’t get past personality differences,
If you can’t get past everyone’s yesterdays,
If you can’t get past the past,
If you can’t get past ethnicity and realize we are one in Christ,

You’re not really a saint.

John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

20.) Saints Are The Only Ones Going To Heaven.

Eph. 5:27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

(So, Are You A Real Saint?)

Written by Martyn Ballestero

January 2, 2019 at 12:31 am

Posted in Christian Living, Compromise, Doctrine, Forgiveness, Gossip, Holiness, Immodesty, Obedience, Pastors, Personal Growth, Submission, Tithes, Worldliness, Worship

The Sound Man Was Blind!

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The Sound Man Was Blind!

It was Youth Rally Night in the little Tennessee country church. I sat in the audience, only two or three of the people even knew me. The small building was very full. The weather very bad. The guests had all braved the storm. They opened the service with prayer. They prayed for the storm to pass on by. “We beta hope de Ward heas our pwayer!” That was what the tongue-tied service leader said, trying to encourage faith in the congregation.

Something was terribly wrong with the microphone. They tapped it, they shook it, and then examined the cord. Nothing worked. All heads turned toward the small sound booth. The sound man was not looking down; he was looking up while he adjusted the board. What? Then it became apparent. He was blind. The sound man was blind and he was the one adjusting the board! Someone had changed the microphone settings and he was trying to restore them by feel. He got it back pretty close to normal too. Unbelievable.

He also ran the computer music software for the overhead projector. The slides on the screen did not always match the words being sung. But, no one seemed to care.

The organ player was taking pictures of the congregation with one hand while playing with the other. She extended her arm full length toward the audience as she took the photos.

They sang! They worshiped! They Shouted. The visiting ministers were all asked to testify. The teenage guest preacher for the Youth Rally was really nervous and it showed. He had never “preached out” before. He preached with anointing and then conviction fell. Young people moved to the altar area to pray. While she played for the altar call song, the organ player took flash photos with her left hand, of the folks coming down the aisle.

No, it wasn’t “perfect church”, like some of the big churches might have, but the congregation went home rejoicing and happy knowing they had been in the presence of the Lord.

This is Home Missions

Written by Martyn Ballestero

June 10, 2018 at 12:45 am

Posted in Christian Living, Conviction, God's House, Holy Ghost, Leadership, Ministry, Missions, Old-Time Pentecost, Visiting Other Churches, Worship

So, When Do The Servers Eat?

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So, When Do The Servers Eat?

Imagine Being In A Restaurant.

In the restaurant, we eat and enjoy our wonderful meal. We love being pampered and catered to. We are made to completely enjoy the experience… because of the servers. But, when do they ever get to eat? They just stay busy serving.

Imagine Being In Church.

In church, we enjoy the worship,
We enjoy the song service,
We enjoy the talented musicians,

We enjoy the multimedia,
We enjoy the songs and scriptures up on the big screen,
And, we enjoy the clear crisp sound of every amplified voice.

We are made to completely enjoy the experience… because of the servers.
But when do they get to eat?
They are so busy serving us that they don’t stop to eat when everyone else eats.

When Do The Musicians Get To Sing?

How long do they have to go without worship?
How long can their spiritual man survive without food?

How About The People In The Sound Booth?

Do those involved in multimedia ever get a chance to get blessed?
Are they restricted from raising their hands?
Are they so techie and committed to media and sound excellence, that there is no room for worship?
Is it improper for them to say, ‘Amen” while in the sound booth?

What About The Preachers On The Platform?

When Do The Servers In God’s House Get To Eat What Everyone Else Gets To Eat?

How long can you go without a blessing?
How long?
Has anyone noticed that worship from many of our musicians, multimedia/sound techs, and most of the platform is almost non-existent?

Haven’t they heard that worship is everyone’s business?

Worship is everyone’s duty!
Worship is everyone’s privilege!
No one is exempt!

It would almost appear, that those who have chosen to be in the sound booth and stay there without any response to worship, prayer, or to the preaching… are not showing any signs of a spiritual life.

One might think they have more knowledge of technical stuff in their heads than they have knowledge of God in their hearts.

How can you play an instrument unto the Lord, and you feel anything?

How can you as a minister request the saints to really worship the Lord, and yet you don’t set the example?

If David the King, could take off his golden crown and dance before the ark, why can’t we all take off the golden crown that represents our little office, and dance like David?

Am I being harsh, or unfair? No doubt. (I won’t even defend myself.)
I am a preacher. When do I get to partake and enjoy a worship service? (I’ve got to eat too!)
I am a musician. When do I get to lay my guitar down? When do I get to shout? (I’ve got to eat too!)

I am somewhat of a nerd. I’ve installed sound equipment and set up computers in a number of churches and ran their multimedia for them. When do I get to come out of the sound booth and praise the Lord? (I’ve got to eat too!)

Never let your office or job put you in a position to stop rejoicing in the Lord.
Never think worship and responding to His presence is beneath you.
Never stop responding to preaching, no matter where you are seated in the church.

Is it just the carnal people who volunteer run the multimedia? Or do worshippers still exist back there too?

Is it the mindset of musicians to stay so focused on showcasing their talent that… that’s all it is? Or do worshippers still exist up there too?

Is it the attitude of ministry that they are so deep into the Word, that any demonstration is beneath them? Or do worshippers still exist there too?

I have no answers.

I only have one question.

When Do The Servers Eat?

Written by Martyn Ballestero

February 28, 2018 at 1:10 pm

Posted in Christian Living, God's House, Pastors, Praise, Prayer, Service, Singing, Worship

She’s A Woman In Love!

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She’s A Woman In Love!

Everyone can tell she’s in love, because of how she acts around him.

They also can tell she’s in love by how she acts when she’s by herself.

Even strangers can look at her, when she’s with him, and see that she’s in love.

Her every thought is consumed with thinking about him and them.

She is affectionate with her words to him.

She is affectionate with him.

She constantly does little things for him so he will know she was thinking about him.

She always makes herself available to be with him.

She constantly stays in touch and quickly responds when he communicates with her.

She never ignores him.

She never stops telling him that she loves him.

She brings him gifts.

She looks lovingly at every picture she has of him.

She reads and rereads his every letter to her, looking for some possible hidden sweetness.

She dresses to please him and imagines his reaction of approval to her outfit.

She smiles all the time.

She’s never been happier.

She is happier than anyone has ever seen her.

She is always willing to go wherever he suggests.

She can’t wait for his call.

She knows her response will always be yes.

She feels secure in his love and trusts his every word.

She believes he will always do the right thing for her and protect her.

She sings love songs just for him.

She is quick to cry and say she’s sorry when she feels she has done something to displease him.

She writes love poems to him.

She feels her heart melt when he comes close to her.

She looks at no one else.

She thinks of no one else.

She talks of no one else.

She knows her heart is fixed on him and refuses to let anything change that.

She lets him plan her life.

She loves going to his house.

She chooses to love his family too.

She tells all her friends about him.

She brags on him to everyone who will listen.

She is not ashamed of him.

She is proud to be called his.

She can’t wait until they get married.

She dreams and plans for that day.

She counts the days.

She’s a woman in love!

If This Is A Picture Of A Woman In Love, Then Read On…

Because the Acts 2:38 church is the bride of Christ… then isn’t this how His bride-to-be should act?

Shouldn’t His Bride Act Like A Woman In Love?

Everyone can tell she’s in love, because of how she acts around Him.

They also can tell she’s in love by how she acts when she’s by herself.

Even strangers can look at her, when she’s with Him, and see that she’s in love.

Her every thought is consumed with thinking about Him and them.

She is affectionate with her words to Him.

She is affectionate with Him.

She constantly does little things for Him so He will know she was thinking about Him.

She always makes herself available to be with Him.

She constantly stays in touch and quickly responds when He communicates with her.

She never ignores Him.

She never stops telling Him that she loves Him.

She brings Him gifts.

She looks lovingly at every picture she has of Him.

She reads and rereads His every letter to her, looking for some possible hidden sweetness.

She dresses to please Him and imagines His reaction of approval to her outfit.

She smiles all the time.

She’s never been happier.

She is happier than anyone has ever seen her.

She is always willing to go wherever He suggests.

She can’t wait for His call.

She knows her response will always be yes.

She feels secure in His love and trusts His every word.

She believes He will always do the right thing for her and protect her.

She sings love songs just for Him.

She is quick to cry and say she’s sorry when she feels she has done something to displease Him.

She writes love poems to Him.

She feels her heart melt when He comes close to her.

She looks at no one else.

She thinks of no one else.

She talks of no one else.

She knows her heart is fixed on Him and refuses to let anything change that.

She lets Him plan her life.

She loves going to His House.

She chooses to love His family too.

She tells all her friends about Him.

She brags on Him to everyone who will listen.

She is not ashamed of Him.

She is proud to be called His.

She can’t wait until they get married.

She dreams and plans for that day.

She counts the days.

She’s a woman in love!

As a Holy Ghost filled, Pentecostal Apostolic, can the world see that you are really in love with Jesus?

Written by Martyn Ballestero

February 10, 2018 at 9:18 pm

Posted in Christian Living, God's House, Love, Praise, Prayer, Worship

The Cracker Barrel New Year’s Sermon

Your Performance Interview With God Is Coming!

The Get Run Over Church

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The Get Run Over Church

“Worship is everybody’s business,” my father said with fervor into the microphone! The song service had been going for twenty minutes or so and the church was getting close to breaking through into another level in the Spirit.

The same old six and seven who always worshipped with all of their hearts, still were. The rest just seemed content tonight to let them do the worshipping for them. This was not their lucky night. Dad wasn’t going to let them off that easy.

Don Zhiss

Big Don Zhiss was enjoying his liberty and began walking around with joy and praising God with great animation. He rolled on the floor. He ran the aisles. He kept running even though no one was following. His gray hair didn’t slow him down.

The song leader was doing a great job, but sometimes, the best of churches can get in a rut. Even good people need to break out of them once in a while.

There was a good spirit of worship in the house that night. The service was not dead. But like a cook tasting the food on the stove and saying, “I think it needs a little more salt.” That’s what my Dad was doing.

He said, “Alright, I want all of you men to get out in the aisles and worship. Men should be the leaders in worship in the church. Come on men. Get out of your comfort zones. Lift your hands in the air. You may not do what I do, but everybody ought to do something for Jesus!”

Like the good obedient people they were, the men gathered self-consciously into the aisles. Even the timid and quiet ones came too. The music was still playing and hands were still clapping.

Several pairs of eyes watched as Bro. Ted moved into the aisles. He had never ventured there in recent memory. He wasn’t a tall or big man. His timid and quiet nature made him seem smaller. He loved to pray, sing and clap his hands, but no one had ever seen him get demonstrative in praise before. They couldn’t wait to see what he would do.

It was quite an accomplishment for him. He stood by the 3rd row in the center aisle facing the pulpit. He raised his hands, closed his eyes and worshipped freely for several minutes. This was something! Bro. Ted was getting close to a breakthrough.

The saints were making real progress. Many were shouting and enjoying the presence of the Lord. People were speaking in tongues all over the house.

Big Don Zhiss began to feel what he called the ‘anointment.’ He felt that the Lord was impressing him to run the aisles, but in a new dimension. He just knew the Lord was telling him to run the aisles with his eyes closed.

Not being slow to respond, Bro. Don charged down the center aisle, full steam ahead. His nearly 300 pounds of mass caused smaller men to step aside, but not Bro. Ted.

Bro. Ted was clueless. His back was to Bro. Don and besides that, his eyes were closed too. All of the worshippers who believed in the ‘watch and pray’ concept, could sense impending doom.

Don hit Ted’s small frame like he was a leaf in the wind. Don barely stumbled. Ted was totally flattened out, face down.

Ted never opened his eyes. He slowly stood back up as concerned saints held their breath. Finally, he stood erect again. By this time, Don had made another lap and came charging down the aisle again.

Once more he waylaid Bro. Ted, and reduced him to a rag doll on the rug. Don didn’t seem to notice the damage he’d done.

Still, Ted tried to continue on without opening his eyes. He was so close to getting something from the Lord. He was finally able to rise up in a kneeling position with his hands still raised when Don came around the 3rd time.

Bro. Don made the corner and laid him out once more. By this time, Bro. Ted had all the worship he could enjoy. He crawled on his hands and knees back down his row and seemed to be content to praise the Lord in the safety of his own seat.

Bro. Zhiss kept running!

(Bro. Ted was never seen in the aisles again.)

Written by Martyn Ballestero

November 4, 2017 at 1:30 am

Posted in God's House, Humor, Old-Time Pentecost, Singing, Worship

The Head Polishing Church

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The Head Polishing Church

Don Zhiss rocked his 290 lb. frame back and forth between the church’s theatre seats. He occasionally would stop and pat his right foot on the hardwood floor impatiently waiting to be called on. In his own words, he was ‘cited’ about getting to testify. He might be in his late 60’s, but them old ladies were just taking way too much time testifying and there was no fire in what they were saying. He couldn’t wait. Come on already!

Don was Jewish. He was a 100% literal son of Abraham. At Studebaker’s plant one day, a fellow employee named Lee Silvers had told him that the Jews had killed Jesus. Don was so upset. He wanted to talk about that some more. Lee brought him to a basement church named Christ Temple on the corner of Elwood Avenue and Elmer Street in South Bend, Indiana.

The preacher preached Don to the altar that night. He repented and received the Holy Ghost. Don also received the revelation of Jesus name baptism and was promptly baptized. When he understood that the Jesus in the New Testament was the Jehovah of the Old wrapped up in flesh, he became unstoppable. He never stopped shouting when someone talked about the Mighty God in Christ.

Into his senior years, Don would lead victory marches around the church and run the aisles. He rolled on the floor sometimes while he testified. If the service was tight, Don had a way of knocking the kinks out of it. He was a worshipper that would have made King David stop and take notice.

He was also highly uncoordinated and unpredictable. When running behind him, the men all knew that at anytime Don might stop and turn around and run the other direction, bringing much confusion and injury to the runners.

This night, Don was fired up. He wanted to testify about Jesus Name. A first time visitor, named Casey, sat in front of Don.

Finally, he got called on. He raised his voice and flailed his arms pacing back and forth. He shook the row of seats in front of him with both hands. The people clapped and shouted amen to encourage to him.

The half a teaspoon or so of saliva, that Don was known to carry in his mouth, began to spray has he exuberantly raved about Jesus name and the Holy Ghost.

Bald headed Casey sat unmoving and frozen while this giant of a man ranted behind him. When Don noticed he had just sprayed saliva all over the visitor’s head, he never missed a beat. While waving one arm high in the air and without so much as looking at what he was doing, Don pulled a used handkerchief out of his pocket with the other hand and began to rub the visitor’s head.

He wiped the spit off of Casey’s head while his eyes stayed glued on the mortified pastor. He didn’t stop with a simple wipe but kept on unconsciously polishing the now shiny dome while waving the other hand and bragging on Jesus.

Oh, by the way, Casey got the Holy Ghost that night.

Written by Martyn Ballestero

November 2, 2017 at 7:16 pm

Posted in God's House, Humor, Old-Time Pentecost, Praise, Testifying, Worship