Why would God call me?

Why would God call me?

This post is inspired by a discussion I had with my husband a few nights ago.  I won't go into all we talked about, but my husband was asking me why I have been having doubts about our calling in the ministry.  This is a paraphrased version of the conversation.

I said, "Why would God call me?  I am a nobody, I can be a brat, and I am physically weak."

My husband lovingly responded with, "Jesus knows how much you love Him."

I said, "Yes, I definitely do; more than anything."

"And you want to serve Him with your whole heart, you read your Bible every day, and you follow what it says."

"Well, yes, I try to, but..."

"God wants a humble person who is willing to work for Him, willing to change, and who wants to give Jesus their everything, not some arrogant person who thinks God owes them everything," then he added with a sweet smile, "And you really are not a brat."

As the conversation continued for a while, I realized this would make a good blog topic as I am sure many of you can relate to feeling unworthy to serve the Lord.

(Mark 16:15) And [Jesus] said unto them, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."

This verse does not say only a certain race, age, gender, economic status, or even only super healthy people can serve Him. We are all called to share His message. Furthermore, we should want to share it:

(Luke 10:2) Therefore said [Jesus] unto them, "The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest."

Here is a writing my husband and I wrote on responding to the call of the Lord https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/08/the-lord-of-harvest-written-by-my.html.

God does not demand perfection, but He does expect us to practice what we preach.  

(Romans 2:1, 3, 5-6 & 21-22) Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?

In other words, we cannot be a hypocrite and please God.  We should not even be attempting to serve God until we clean up our own lives first.

But now let me get back to the title of this blog and hopefully give all of us some encouragement when we are wondering why God would call us.  We are not alone in feeling inadequate.  In fact, we are in very good company. When God called Moses, he did not say, "Of course you want me.  I am rich, skilled, handsome, and very moral."  No, he was very humble and in fact argued with God insisting God was calling the wrong person (Read Genesis chapters 2 to Exodus chapter 40 for his whole story and specifically Gensis chapters 3-4 to read about when he was called).  God, of course, never, ever makes mistakes, and He was certain Moses was the right man to go before Pharaoh to demand the Hebrew slaves be set free, as well as being chosen as their spiritual leader afterwards.  God did, however, acknowledge Moses' fears and doubts and allowed his brother Aaron to be his helper.

The prophet Jeremiah also questioned God about his calling.  In chapter 1 of Jeremiah, when he is called, Jeremiah feels he is too young and a poor speaker.  Yet just as God had reminded Moses that He had made the mouth, He also assured Jeremiah He would guide the prophet's words.   

Gideon (see Judges chapter 6) also repeatedly questioned God's calling. He also did not arrogantly say, "Of course you are calling me because I am brave and young."  No, the angel had to tell Gideon he was a man of valor, yet he never seemed to believe it.  All throughout his story in Judges through to chapter 8, Gideon is full of insecurities and doubts.

Through these few examples we can see a pattern of humility.  We do not need to be self-loathing for God to use us, but we should never tell God He needs to call us because we are so attractive, talented, rich, Godly, etc.  God does not need us, we need Him.  That's why we want to serve Him and spread His message, because we want others to need Jesus also.  We want to help others remove that barrier of pride and admit they need a Savior and then choose to give up sin so they can spend eternity with a holy God. 

(Isaiah 66:2) "For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been," saith the Lord: "but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word."

That verse above, that is the key! Read all the words until they sink in.  

On the night of the above conversation with my husband, he reminded me of these verses:

(1 Corinthians 1:26-31) For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

Yes, we may feel weak and inadequate, but our holy "foolishness" shares the life of salvation and not the rebellious foolishness of sin's death (see Romans 6:23). That is what it is all about, not glorifying ourselves.  Not seeing our name in lights. Not to be rich.  But to glorify the name of Jesus.  If you have any other agenda, then this next verse is for you.  It is for all those who have served the Lord under false motives and hypocritical actions.

(Matthew 7:21-23) Not every one that saith unto me, "Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven;" but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?" And then will I profess unto them, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."

It is perfectly okay to question why God would call you, as it shows humility and a willingness for self-examination. Just make sure you follow through and allow the Holy Spirit to help you work on changing where God says you need to change and to give up the sins He expects you to give up. Nothing is worth holding onto if it means losing your soul, but God is worth giving up everything to serve Him and Him alone!  

I will leave you with this poem I wrote in 2006:

(Isaiah 6:8) Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" Then said I, "Here am I; send me."

When Called (2006)
It is an honor to be called out,
To have God say you are ready,
To walk through the battlefield
Equipped in the armor of His holy word;
To take a stand where others fall
And say, “Yes, Lord, use me.”

Not to whimper or cry,
But to shout because you are chosen;
To tremble in awe at such an assignment,
And pray for wisdom and strength;
To try to understand,
And believe God’s will even when things seem impossible;
To say, “Yes, Lord, teach me.”

To feel His blessing grip a hold of you,
And kneel in His presence;
To not give up or give in,
But to push ahead through the muck.

And when you reach the end,
To praise Him for surviving;
To say, “Yes, lord, heal me.”
And not become bitter;
To reflect on all He taught you;
To remember He chose you;
To feel your faith grow stronger,
And heart more open;
To do it all again,
And say, “Yes, Lord, use me.”

Exploring Christian Entertainment: Part 2: Movies & Television, Written by my Husband & Me

Exploring Christian Entertainment: Part 2: Movies & Television

Written by my Husband (Mel) & Me

There are many Biblical movies today being produced by both Hollywood, as well as Christian organizations that are not wholesome, nor Biblically accurate.  There was a time when Biblical movies were safe for the whole family to watch and there was more of a reverence than today. My wife and I made the decision to do away with television, as well as all movies some time ago because of all the wickedness shown. But before we completely made a break from movies, we viewed some Biblical movies and were shocked at what we saw.

We will examine some of the biblical movies that are being endorsed by many churches today. When Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" first came out, I went to see it in the movie theater. I had a strong discernment of a demonic presence during the entire movie. The discernment was strongest when they depicted Satan as a grotesque androgynous person holding a demonic baby. This movie was made like a horror movie. They didn't need to show the worms eating the carcass of a donkey or the overdone mutilation of Christ. The most disgusting scene occurred at the end of the movie during the resurrection scene. They showed a quick glimpse of Christ's nude backside, including his buttock. This is typical Hollywood's irreverence for anything holy. Yet the churches in their blind ignorance widely endorsed this movie. (Apparently there is a part 2 coming out soon that is a twisted story that heavily focuses on angels and demons.  Mel Gibson even admitted it disturbed him! Then why make it? I really don't want to know more about the plot, so I choose to stay ignorant of any further details about the movie.)

Another one of Hollywood's irreverent movies was "The Last Temptation of Christ." We never saw this rated R movie but have read much about it. This movie depicted Jesus fantasizing about having sex with Mary Magdalene upon the cross and it showed them naked in bed together. This is the ultimate blasphemy against our Lord who knew no sin. At least back then the churches protested this disgusting film, but today, anything goes with a church who has lost its way.

The last so-called Biblical movie we watched was "Noah" with Russell Crowe. This movie did not resemble the true Biblical account of Noah in any way! The movie depicted the fallen angels (watchers), as creatures made of rock. These rock creatures repeatedly made remarks about how the Creator punished them for helping mankind. The movie depicted the fallen angels helping Noah build the ark, and the result was that God forgave them for their trespass and let them re-enter Heaven. Later, aboard the ark, Noah is depicted as a mad man trying to kill his newly born grandchild. There is also a castaway aboard the ark urging Noah's son to kill his father. The facts are that the fallen angels did not help Noah build the ark. It took Noah 120 years to build the ark. Noah, his wife, and his sons and their wives, were the only ones aboard the ark, there were not any castaways or grandchildren. Noah and his entire family were Godly people God chose to spare from the worldwide flood, not homicidal maniacs. This gross departure from scripture is presenting a lie to many people who are not familiar with scripture.

Another insult from Hollywood is "The Young Messiah." Anne Rice is the author of the book that the movie is based off of. Anne Rice is famous for writing horror stories, especially about vampires. This movie is presenting a lie about the childhood of Jesus. The Bible doesn't have much to say about the childhood of Christ, so Hollywood considers it perfectly acceptable to fill in the blanks with lies. The movie depicts Jesus being bullied by a child who falls and hits his head and dies. Jesus feels bad about it and resurrects the child from the dead. According to the Bible, Jesus' first miracle was when He turned the water into wine at the marriage feast, and even then, He said that his time had not yet come. This movie also depicts an attempted rape scene in which the woman kills the man. There is also an implied sex scene between Herod and a woman who dances for him. A demon is also depicted taunting the young Jesus. There are no boundaries, or depths of depravity, that Hollywood will not lower themselves to. And, by the way, Anne Rice conveniently became Catholic long enough to get money for this book, then quickly denounced her "faith" again soon after the success of it all.  Why would any Christian organization promote someone such as that, especially considering that filth for which she is so well known? (Note: we have not seen this movie but read the review for it.)

(1 Corinthains 10:21) Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

Other movies to avoid are, "Risen" and "Exodus." These movies also grossly depart from scripture, as well as are filled with violence.  As well as many I am sure I have not even heard of and don't care to know more about.

We have also been shocked at the movies being produced by Christian organizations. One movie depicted a pastor using profanity from behind the pulpit. This same movie also depicted a Christian family drinking alcohol on a regular basis. Many of these faith-based movies also show women dressed immodestly, they also include swearing, glorify and justify pre-marital and extra-marital relationships, as well as have unnecessary violence. There was a time when there was a reverence for the Lord, as well as Christian ministry, but now anything goes. My advice to Christians is to 100% give up television and movies and trade your free time to grow closer to the Lord.   

Now I know many of you will be upset about this, but I have to address the trend of Biblical television shows, which includes the very popular show "The Chosen."  Before we gave up television, I tried to watch the first episode.  I immediately felt a disturbance with it, but I wanted to watch a little more, so I knew why the Holy Spirit was warning me this was a bad show.  The prophet Nicodemus was depicted as a sort of, I am sorry but I cannot think of a better term, witch doctor.  Yes, they used herbs for medical cures back then, but he was portrayed more like he was making occultic potions rather than natural herbal remedies. I did not finish watching.  It only takes a little leaven (sin) to affects the whole loaf of bread (your soul), so why watch it if even only one portion of the show was tainted.  One can only assume there were many more disturbing errors throughout.  

(1 Corinthians 5:6, AMP) Do you not know that [just] a little leaven ferments the whole batch [of dough, just as a little sin corrupts a person or an entire church]?

(Galatians 5:9, AMP) A little leaven [a slight inclination to error, or a few false teachers] leavens the whole batch [it perverts the concept of faith and misleads the church]. 

I decided to ask AI how many Biblical inaccuracies there are in "The Chosen."  It said there is no exact number, but that MANY theologians have criticized the show saying it goes beyond creative license and is grossly inaccurate to the point it is often heretical.  The show often misquotes scripture, and even manipulate sand changes the timeline of Jesus.  It changes the Biblical back stories of many of real people just for the sake of ratings (such as Mary Magdalene and Judas just to name a few). Again, this is all from AI as I did not watch more than 5-10 minutes, but even AI had enough sense to say, " It contains numerous dramatized or invented elements that critics argue are biblically inaccurate. Viewers seeking strict biblical fidelity should compare the series’ events directly with the Gospel texts." 

 

Please quit allowing this leaven of false teaching into your homes.  Just read your Bibles if you want to know the story of Jesus and His disciples and apostles!

And just a quick note, many Christian books are not much better.  I read a lot on my own as well as both of us listening to audio books together in the evenings, and we have had to quit reading/listening to at least half of the books due to Biblical inaccuracies, inserts of the occult, sexuality, violence, and even profanity.  

However, there are still a lot of very good authors out there if you are patient enough to try them out, so do not be discouraged that all you have to do is sit and stare at the walls all day just to please the Lord.  As well as actually talking to each other, going for walks, playing games, etc.  Life does not have to be dull just because you make the decision to guard your ear and eye gates and not subject your body, which is the temple of God, to ungodly entertainment!    

(1 Corinthians 6:19-20) What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

Please prayerfully consider giving up all tv/movies.  Afterall, is soulless entertainment really worth displeasing the King of Kings who gave His life for you?  

(2 Corinthians 6:14-18- 7:1) What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness...  for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate," saith the Lord, "and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

(Joshua 24:14-15) Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served... and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served... but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

Exploring Christian Entertainment, Part 1: Christian Rock Music

Exploring Christian Entertainment, Part 1: Christian Rock Music

Music has always been a big part of my life.  My Mom tells me I used to imitate the singers in the church with my own sounds before I could even talk. I also have clear memories from when I was around 5 years old of sitting in front of our family's record player in my miniature rocking chair while raising my hands and praising the Lord (or maybe I was listening to an 8-track, for those of you old enough to know what that is).  My Mom says I was also speaking in tongues while I worshipped, but I don't remember those details, just the joy of letting God know how much I loved Him.  In spite of how shy I am, loved singing in church either with my family or alone (we sang a lot of Gaither songs!).  It was inevitable that by the age of 12, "I played in the band (trumpet) and sang in the choir"!  

In the 1970s and 80s I loved Evie, Sandi Patty, and Keith Green. Admittedly, as I grew older, I did not have the best music choices.  In the later 1980s through the 1990s my flesh was drawn to the heavier beats of Petra, DeGarmo & Key, and even Stryper.  By the 2000's I was even listening to Skillet, Kutless, and Flyleaf.  I shutter to think of that now!  Where was my discernment?  Actually, I know where it was.  When I would listen to certain songs, I would feel a Satanic presence, but I rebelliously ignored it and justified it by saying some of the songs had good lyrics.

Since meeting and marrying Mel, we have both prayerfully and humbly asked God to purge us of anything that was displeasing to Him.  One of the first things we got rid of after we got married in 2012 was the secular music labeled as "Christian."  I am much more careful with what I expose my ear gates to now (see Philippians 4:8 below).  My passion for music now goes much deeper, anything I sing or listen to MUST glorify the King of Kings.  There is nothing wrong with faster rhythms as long as they are still respectful and not using specific beats to summon demons (see below for more on that).  If in doubt, I turn it off!     

Let me further explain why I am posting this writing again.

My husband and I recently watched a sermon from a pastor where he spoke out against the demonic beats in music and how such music causes the listener to feel lust, rebellion, depression, etc.  Some people in his congregation became so angry they walked out.  I applaud this man for speaking out, but very unfortunately he did not practice what he preached.  After watching that message I wanted to watch a worship service from his church, and it showed their "worship" team screaming as they wildly jumped up and down.  This was not worshipping God in spirit and in Truth, but was appealing to the flesh (John 4:24 - God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.). Whether you believe it or not, I felt a demonic presence so strongly, I had to turn it off after two minutes or less. It is also what prompted me to want to re-share this writing I originally wrote at least 10 years ago.  Here is that writing:

What would you say if I told you all of the above photos are of bands who promote themselves as "Christian"?  If you look like the world on the outside, what does that say about the condition of your heart on the inside? If these images don't make you feel sick in your spirit, maybe you need to ask God why you are so comfortable with "Christians" looking like Satanists and atheists.

(Romans 12:1-2 ) I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.   And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. 

There are also plenty of pictures of female Christian artists from different genres of "Christian" music dressed and posed provocatively.  I did not feel comfortable sharing such images, but trust me, they are out there.  

(I Timothy 2:9-10) In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation... which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. 

I am not trying to mock anyone, but I just don't understand why anyone would promote themselves as a Christian band if they were not willing to walk the walk and talk and the talk.   

For that matter, why would any of us listen to such music, thus promoting ungodly music and giving them our money when only genuine Christians serving Jesus should get our support? 

(Philippians 4:8-9) Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you. 

We may think that any kind of music is safe as long as it is promoted as Christian.  As I mentioned in the new introduction above,  my husband and I once both listened to Christian music in the past with a heavy rock beat (and sometimes not-so-heavy, but it is still obvious the artist is compromising).  Our flesh enjoyed the secular rhythm.  There was not always a Godly message to be found in the lyrics, but the voices were good, and the beat was pleasing.  What we both noticed was that, even while trying to enjoy the music, we would always feel a sense of agitation while listening to it.  That is called a check in your spirit when God is trying to warn you something is bad.  This is also called discernment.

 (Philippians 1:9-10) And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ.  

David Wilkerson was an amazing holiness preacher. He had a great gift of prophecy and discernment.  In 1987, David was invited to attend a well-known Christian singer's concert.  While at this concert, the band began playing a very popular song.  In the spirit, David saw Satan laughing at the crowd because they were doing this all in the name of Jesus, but they were truly worshiping Satan in their hearts.  (***Please read his very profound and eye-opening article: http://tscpulpitseries.org/english/1980s/ts870803.html   ***)

(Isaiah 5:20 ) Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 

Think demons aren't real?

(Ephesians 6:12) For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  

Mel gave up "Christian" rock music in his teens, when his late mother saw demons attached to the music he was listening to.  Mel's mother, Marie was a prophetic woman with a profound gift of spiritual discernment.  

Like Pastor Wilkerson, even before I knew he also had a vision, I also had a vision of a demon on stage at a "Christian" concert my husband and I attended.  The demon had a wide, sadistic grin on its face as if it was fully enjoying the fact that the audience was enjoying and even dancing to the very secular music that had nothing to even do with Christ.  I turned to Mel and said, "Do you feel that? The air is heavy and making me sick to my stomach." Mel acknowledged he felt the same way. We quickly left. As we were heading out the door, Mel felt the urge to loudly say, "Ichabod! The spirit of the Lord has departed."  Another concert goer, also about to leave, looked at him and shouted, "Amen! Preach it brother!"  

Artists promoting themselves as "Christian" are truly wolves in sheep's clothing.  They do not care about the condition of your soul.  What they want is your adoration, and of course, your money.  Look again at the faces of those in the pictures above.  Do you see any humility?  Do their songs really praise Jesus or just ask for stuff and whine about life being hard?  The only message given is the very watered-down grace message that says we are all forgiven because we are only human.  You will never hear repentance or holiness preached.  You rarely even hear the name of Jesus or God, but rather the songs are about a generic, "you." 

If you have ever been to one of these concerts, pay attention to who is getting worshipped.     

(Romans 12:3) For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought.

Ungodly music does not just come from professional studios.  Many churches are also into promoting the same ungodly beats for the sake of entertainment and, more importantly, for the sake of getting money placed in the offering.  Do not be deceived that just because the music is sung in a church that it is pleasing to God.

Mel once had a dream where he was attending a fancy mega-church.  He sat in the bleachers with some younger people, and the elders of the church were seated to their right.  The worship leader began encouraging them to worship God by clapping and lifting their hands to the Lord.  Then he began telling them to dance before the Lord.  Don't be fooled that there is anything holy about the Holy Ghost Hop, for this is what they were doing in the dream.  Then he encouraged the congregation to take their clothes off before the Lord.  This is symbolic of sin.  As the younger people began peeling their clothes off, the elders began to point and chant, "Shame!  Shame!"

Also, consider this:  the heavy drum beats used in some of the popular music styles come from tribal music used in satanic rituals.  Some of these same rhythms have been and still are used to call on demons.  The demons have not forgotten this fact, nor do they care who you think you are calling.  They will answer.

Not all Christian artists are wrong to listen to. There are many that sing beautiful songs that glorify the Lord. With that said, however, even the softer style of music is likely to be sung by lukewarm Christians. Often, I see popular artists dancing around, jumping up in down, raising their hands, using phony mood lighting, and even strobe lights and smoke, all for show-and-tell and to promote him/herself.  When you are close to the Lord, you can tell the difference between these actors pretending to glorify the Lord with teary eyes and up-raised arms. Emotionalism sells albums and tickets! The lyrics and beats may be safe, but even if the singer is phony, just make certain you are glorifying God in your personal worship and not the singer. 

My husband and I are both very careful about the type of music we listen to.  We pay close attention to any discernments the Holy Spirit may give us.  If either one of us feels uncomfortable, the music gets turned off.  We encourage you to also listen closely to the Holy Spirit when he warns you about what you allow into your home, car, or office.

Here is a link to my husband's video on Christian Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvB28kbBm68

Where is the discernment? Part 2, Written by my Husband

 

Where is the discernment? Part 2

Written by my Husband (Mel) 

There are many counterfeit revivals going on where God’s Holy Spirit has been replaced by demonic manifestations. People are laughing uncontrollably, as well as making different animal sounds. They are hissing like snakes, mooing like cows, roaring like lions, howling like wolves, as well as barking like dogs. These same manifestations occur within Kundalini Hinduism, as well as other forms of occultism. In a congregation in Boston, the pastor crawled on his hands and knees like a dog, barking, and his wife led him around on a leash fastened to a dog collar around his neck. The wife then said, “Where he leads, I will follow!”

People also claim to be drunk in the spirit; they display symptoms of physical drunkenness. After leaving one of these revivals in Florida, numerous people were pulled over by law enforcement officers for drunk driving. They all passed their breathalyzer tests, because they were made drunk by an unholy spirit. God’s Word is clear that God hates drunkenness, and no drunkard will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Satan is the lawless one, and he is making a mockery of God, within these revivals. After leaving this flesh fest, people were also seen displaying drunk behavior in local restaurants. They were falling on the floor in the restaurants, laughing hysterically. God is a God of order, and not foolishness. God will not make a person drive drunk or embarrass them in public. Where is the discernment? Why can’t Christians see that an unholy demonic spirit, is at work in their churches?

There are many counterfeit revivals producing demonic manifestations occurring worldwide. The Toronto blessing, Pensacola outpouring, Lakeland revival, Kansas City IHOP, Bethel Church in Redding Ca, Hillsong church etc. are but a few examples. False Ministries to avoid, Rodney Howard Brown, Benny Hinn, Kenneth Copeland, Trinity Broadcasting Network, Creflo Dollar, Jesse Duplantis, Joyce Meyers, Paula White, as well as all other prosperity gospel preachers, and those that teach the unconditional eternal security doctrine.

In some, so-called Christian rock concerts, many of the young people are going into trances, where they display tribal dancing. These are but a few of the demonic manifestations going on worldwide. The late pastor David Wilkerson warned the church about this invasion of demonic activity, as well as the need to return to holiness preaching, but most will not listen. It is time for the church to start using discernment and realize that something has gone wrong. God is withdrawing his Spirit from many churches, because they will not endure sound doctrine. If the churches will return to teaching and living in holiness once again, then maybe God’s Spirit will return!

Many of the leaders of these false revivals have been caught in adultery, as well as homosexual relations. I believe that in many cases physical perversion is a manifestation of spiritual perversion. A false prophet from Florida who led a well-known revival, has a tattoo of a Japanese goddess on his arm. He claims that this goddess is really an angel by the name of Emma who accompanies him during his kicking sessions at his so-called revival. He claims that Emma has instructed him to hit or kick people in need of healing, as an act of obedience. The revival was shut down when it was revealed that he was having an affair during the entire time of this revival. This wolf in sheep’s clothing, divorced his wife and married his mistress. Now he is back at it again. A false prophet from Kansas City, claims that this same angel Emma came floating into his church to usher in their false revival. His church later removed him from his ministry position due to sexual misconduct with church members. Another false prophet from his church admitted to being a practicing homosexual. I could go on and on with examples of how perverted these revivalists are, but this should suffice.

Many of the television evangelists, as well as mega-church leaders, have also had their share of scandals. A well-known television evangelist, who wears a white suite, and has a healing ministry, has much darkness surrounding him. Channel six news from Orlando featured an expose on this minister. They showed on film a group of men sitting at a table together, and the evangelist handed a bong to his lead singer, as well as another man at the table. Both of these men smoked the bong. One of the men who smoked the bong, died later from a heroin overdose. While this married evangelist was in Rome, he was filmed walking and holding hands with a female television evangelist, who was wearing very short shorts. They both admitted to a friendship when the pictures were released but denied their obvious affair. In spite of this wickedness, their supporters chose to forgive them. If Christians would wake up and stop supporting these apostate ministers, they would shut them down overnight. God’s anointing is not on these reprobates, who use God for dishonest gain. Hell will be full of those who fleece the flock.

Many Christians are afraid of supernatural experiences because of the demonic manifestations. However, we need to allow God’s true gifts to be in operation within the church. It is not good to quench God’s Spirit, or to be afraid of it. For God does give visions, dreams, work miracles, heal the sick etc. (1 Corinthians 12). It is crucial that we pray over experiences, as well as use sound judgment. The reason for this unholy spirit which has invaded the church is a false grace message that promotes loose living, as well as other false doctrines. God gives Grace to those who repent and walk in the light, but NOT to those who love darkness.

Where is the discernment? Part 1

  

Where is the discernment? Part 1

Written by Me 

If you call yourself a Christian, you should be outraged by the false messages being taught not only behind the pulpit on Sundays, but also at "religious" conferences and concerts. Yet it seems the farther the messages being taught stray away from the True gospel of Jesus Christ, the larger the audience.  The more entertaining and outrageous the event, the larger the crowd.  The more the message of holiness is preached, the smaller the congregation.  People do not want to be changed from "glory to glory" (2 Corinthians 3:8) and transformed to imitate the character of Jesus Christ.  No, they want to be gods in their own might and not acknowledge that they answer to the one and only God in Heaven!

One of the reasons discernment has left the church is because of a rebellious spirit.  People are literally plugging their ears to the wages of sin (Romans 6:23).  What is stated in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 sums up man's rebellion exactly, "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; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." Therefore, even when one knows the Truths of the Bible, they refuse to listen to it and walk away because they want to feel good in their sin. They ignore the discernment telling them what the preachers are teaching is wrong. Here is the real Truth, you will find more joy walking upright with the Lord than you ever will wallowing in sin with the devil.

(Hebrews 5: 11-14) Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing... and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. 

I realize that some people may be new to Christianity and mere babes in the ways of the Lord.  They are still on spiritual milk and have not yet progressed to the meat of understanding the deeper things beyond the basic gospel message.  2 Timothy 2:5 means that we are to do our own studying so we can learn to understand right from wrong, not let someone else tell us their version of right and wrong: "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." The more we study the Bible, the more the Holy Spirit will make it clear what the false teachers are saying does not align with the holy Word of God.

(Matthew 7:15) Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

(Jude, Verse 4) There are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

It is so very true that there are more false teachers than honest ones.  They are intentionally deceiving the masses.  It is an active choice to be wolves and preach a false grace message. The reasons clearly have to do with fame and fortune.  If they tell you the Truth, that you need to repent of your sins, then their offering plates and their church pews would be nearly empty.  However, you and I are not responsible for what other people teach, we are responsible for how we respond. Apart from reading your Bible, every time, and I mean each and every time you attend a church service, a Bible study, a concert, or a conference, you need to pray that the Holy Spirit will give you His discernment to recognize what is false and what is from the Lord. Ask for a supernatural check in your spirit.  If you experience physical symptoms, you know are not natural (in other words you know you are not physically ill, but you are sensing a spiritual sickness): a tightness in your chest, a headache, nausea, your eyes burning or itching, tingling or burning in your hands, earache, etc. these may be signs God is speaking to you to leave the meeting or quit watching if it is a sermon or concert on-line. Sometimes it is a strong feeling to go now! Don't stick around because your family or friends may make fun of you for saying God is speaking to your heart and you need to leave.  They are not the ones you will stand before on judgement day, God is, and He will honor you when you take a stand.   

(Ezekiel 4:23) And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean. 

It is good that there seems to be a desire to worship God and there are many "worship" groups to choose from.  It all looks good to see the leaders on stage raising their hands before God and singing pretty words.  Yet, it you allow the Holy Spirit to give you discernment you will see this is often false fire offered before God. These concerts are more about emotionalism to make you feel good so you will spend money. The lyrics of the songs are often shallow and even more often theologically incorrect.  John 4:24 says, "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."  How many are in a spirit of truly examining their hearts and allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to them? Or are they just trying to look holy by raising their hands? True worship means being vulnerable to God and allowing Him to convict your heart, not just singing a pretty song (Psalm 139:23-24 - Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.) If you do your research, you will easily discover that the majority of popular "Christian" singing groups are not living Godly lives.  They are sexually immoral, even rapists, drink plenty of alcohol, smoke cigarettes and marijuana (or worse), dress provocative, etc.  They are not trying to bring glory to God, but to self.  And if you listen to the Holy Spirit's voice, you can feel their "praise" to God is hitting the ceiling versus listening to true gospel music where you can feel the power of God stir you to yearning to change for Him and grow in His love.  (You can read more about "Christian" music in my blog here: https://thankful-julie.blogspot.com/2026/10/exploring-christian-entertainment-part.html )

There was a woman in a documentary my husband and I watched that claimed she had an experience where Jesus climbed into bed with her and played with her hair and told her she did not ever need to worry about her sins because He understood her! This is not only utterly depraved to say Jesus would ever act like your boyfriend, but also theologically incorrect. What did Jesus Christ say in Luke 5:32? "I came to call the... sinners to repentance." And in 1 John 1:9 says, "IF WE CONFESS our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Jesus will never say, "You are only human, so it is okay to sin."  There should have been an outcry of discernment from those who say they follow Christ instead of promoting this woman's false story.

(Romans 6:1-2 & 6) What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

In the same documentary, another woman, also a prominent leader, was shown in several clips repeating the same story so it can be assumed she toured many places with this false testimony.  She said she saw The Holy Spirit as "the genie from [the Disney movie] Aladdin." That He is "blue, silly, and funny."  First, a Christian with discernment and an obedient heart to God should never support Disney.  Almost everything associated with Disney is linked to witchcraft, including the genie who is based off of Arabic folklore that says he is a "magical spirit."  God hates witchcraft, so how dare she link the Holy Spirit with satanism.  Second, the Holy Spirit is not "silly or funny." 1 Corinthians 14:33 says that "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace."  Where is the discernment? Why didn't people walk out of her conferences in huge numbers. Did they never read their Bibles where it says in Ephesians 4:30, "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption." And also in Luke 12:10, "Unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven."? This same woman also says we are like gods.  

Again, please pray for supernatural discernment from God, and obey when He tells you to run away from anyone not preaching the Word of God! As 1 Corinthians 2 tells us, we are to rely only on Holy Spirit of God and never on men!  

(1 Corinthians 2:5 & 12-15) That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

Does God still speak to people today? Written by my Husband & Me

 

Does God still speak to people today? Written by my Husband (Mel) & Me

Does God still speak to people today? Many churches teach that God only speaks through the Bible and not personally to anyone. However, God's Word says otherwise. According to the Bible, God has given spiritual gifts to His church for the equipping of the saints.

This passage is from the prophet Joel.

(Joel 2:28-32) And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. 

In Acts 2:16-20, Peter repeats these same words verbatim. Both Joel and Peter agree on this statement from God. Note these words say ALL flesh, both genders, all ages groups, and includes maids and servants. The gift of prophesy is not exclusive to only young, rich, white, or males.

Many churches misuse scripture to justify their position, however, there is not one verse in the entire Bible that states the gifts of prophecy will cease. The gifts of the Spirit will continue until the Lord returns. 1 Corinthians describes the beautiful gifts of The Holy Spirit.

(1 Corinthians 12:4-12) Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

Many people will not allow God to speak to them because they don't have the faith to believe it. Their churches have taught them that God only speaks through His Word and have stifled God's Spirit.

Search out Scripture and use discernment. God wants a clean vessel He can speak through. If someone says, "God told me..." but their lifestyle does not reflect Biblical principles, you can usually dismiss them, even if they seem "spiritual." Remember, even the Devil can quote scripture (see Matthew 4:1-11) and masquerades as an angel of light (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-15). All experiences must line up with the Word of God or they should be rejected. However, even if someone who seems to be walking with the Lord tells you God spoke to them, it is still okay to ask God for confirmation.

(1 John 4:1-3) Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God.

God speaks to both of us in dreams, visions, and words. He shows us prophecies as well as gives as personal messages. And yes, we just said it is okay to ask for confirmation from God from anyone who says they hear from God, and we are not so arrogant that we think we are the exception to that Biblical rule. With that said, we have received many confirmations from the headlines in the media, we have the same or similar words/visions/dreams on the same night, as well as others experiencing similar things we have seen that show the prophesies God have revealed to us are from Heaven. Yet, we still believe it is okay for you to confirm God's Truths to you as well. While strangers often see the fruits of our messages, people we personally know are doubters because what God shows us often conflicts with what they want to believe outside of Biblical boundaries, they think they are the spiritual authority over us, and/or they have false dreams that contradict what we have seen, so they dismiss us. Therefore, be prepared for those who think they know you the best to be the most skeptical. It truly does not matter, however, as we only need God's approval to share what is revealed and we know it is not our power, but from the Holy Trinity that we hear and see things before they happen. Our goal is to help others and glorify God, not uplift ourselves.

(Matthew 13:57) But Jesus said unto them, "A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house."

If you choose to follow God with all your heart, mind, and lifestyle, He can speak to you as well. Pray to the Holy Spirit for His gifts. Be ready to obey whatever He tells you do to be ready to receive His gifts. If you need to get rid of something hindering a closer walk with Jesus, then you must get rid of it before He will use you. Also be prepared to be obedient to share what He tells you to share, even when it is difficult and you very well may be rejected. Also, ask for discernment for your experiences to be able to determine what is from God, what is from Satan trying to play God, and what is from your own imagination. Again, it is okay to ask God for confirmation on what you receive that may be from the Holy Spirit.

(2 Timothy 2:15) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

The better you know the Holy Trinity and what the Bible truly teaches by reading it on your own, the more you will know and understand what is and what is not from God. God will never tell you to do anything immoral, illegal, or unscriptural. Know God. God will never give you a message that is self- serving, that only bring you attention and honor. He will tell you How much he loves you in some beautiful ways, but He will not give you messages with the goal of fame or fortune. The messages are (for you or someone else) usually for correction, warnings for future events, insight on what someone else may be going through spiritually or physically (but God is not a gossiper, this is so you can pray) a word of encouragement, or (as I just said) to let you know you are a beloved child of the King. Choose to live a holy life, study His holy word, and The Holy Spirit very well may choose to use you for His glory!

Song: "It's Beginning to Rain," Written by Bill & Gloria Gaither & C. Aaron Wilburn. Sung by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fc3nbUmFD9U&list=RDfc3nbUmFD9U&start_radio=1