 
The Menorah Bride

By Michael Rajnarine Sawh

Copyright Michael Rajnarine Sawh 2018

Smashwords Edition

About this book

The Menorah Bride is a collection of meditations, poems and reflections.

Prologue: Dunkirk & the UK Awakening considers signposts for the current generation.

Part I: The Fragrance of the Dawn is a story of encountering Jesus and the reality of heaven.

Part II: The Menorah Bride explores how Proverbs 31 presents a compelling picture of the Body

of Christ, His Bride & Ekklesia in the last days. First published in 2014.

Part III: Devotions is a selection of poems and reflections.

Part IV: Identity examines 10 foundations of discipleship.

Part V: D-Day & the European Awakening

In loving memory of

Jennifer Ann Sawh

1944-2009

All rights reserved.

First published 2018.

2019 edition incorporates 'D-Day & the European Awakening' 2019 article in Part V.

Cover Art: The Veil Nebula (ESA/Hubble)

About the author

Michael is a musician & author of several books on spirituality & business.

Visit **mystarflowers.com** for the latest news & publications:

\- _Augmented Bible (2020)_ : a translation of New and Old Testament scriptures.

\- _Father's New Testament (2019)_ : a precise NT translation from the Textus Receptus.

\- _Song of Songs (2019)_ : a musical arrangement of the Song of Solomon.

\- _Healthy Business (2018)_ : applying biological systems to leadership.

Table of Contents

Prologue \- Dunkirk & the UK Awakening

Part I: The Fragrance of the Dawn

Part II: The Menorah Bride

Introduction – The Perfect Bride Proverbs 31:10-31

Chapter 1 – Mighty in His Presence/Aleph

Chapter 2 – Trusted in Battle/Beit

Chapter 3 – A Rewarding Life/Gimel

Chapter 4 – Purposeful Palms/Dalet

Chapter 5 – Resting in Revelation/Hei

Chapter 6 – Rising, Giving and Decreeing/Vav

Chapter 7 – Expanding and Multiplying/Zayin

Chapter 8 – Empowered and Encouraged/Khet

Chapter 9 – Discerning and Wise/Tet

Chapter 10 – The Bride of Two Loves/Yod

Chapter 11 – The Commissioned Wife/Kaf

Chapter 12 – Peace through the Blood/Lamed

Chapter 13 – Purity and Royalty/Mem

Chapter 14 – Focused and Influential/Nun

Chapter 15 – Designer Clothing/Samekh

Chapter 16 – Magnificent Joy/Ayin

Chapter 17 – Beautiful Lips/Pei

Chapter 18 – Watchful and Active/Tzadde

Chapter 19 – Ascending and Blessing/Qof

Chapter 20 – Above Them All/Resh

Chapter 21 – Grace, Beauty & Fear/Shin

Chapter 22 – Fivefold Fruits/Tau
Part III: Devotions

Part IV: Identity

Part V: D-Day & the European Awakening

Prologue: Dunkirk & the UK Awakening

The Great Rescue

These insights were shared in October 2017 at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square. The Dunkirk evacuation of World War II offers a number of signposts to the present generation.

1. A rescue operation comprising many small ships

I see a salvation movement of many small fellowships of worshipping families under the genuine headship of the Holy Spirit, in close and constructive relationships with neighbouring vessels, hosting the love, life and glory of God, acting on the Great Commission, exercising spiritual authority over their territory. Only smaller vessels could draw near to the beach and rescue the Allied soldiers; similarly, a host of local fellowships is needed to reach urban and rural harvest fields. Such a fleet can also endure significant losses and still fulfil its mandate. In contrast, an alliance of centralized mega-ships is more vulnerable to the loss of key leaders through moral or doctrinal failures, for example.

2. A partnership of generations

In May 1940, the Dunkirk rescue was a team effort of veterans and youth, older and younger generations co-labouring to crew civilian vessels. The present move is a similar mobilisation of experience and anointing alongside a restoration of spiritual parenting (sound teaching, real relationships and covering prayer) which reproduces dynamic faith, overcoming hope and sacrificial love. I see spiritual mothers and fathers imparting both identity & wisdom to a movement which dwells & excels in great exploits. This partnership of generations can release a youth movement which is both impactful and sustainable.

3. Many wounded

There are many wounded sailors & soldiers in need of restoration, believers new and old. Some are wounded on the battlefield by enemy action, others indirectly by 'friendly fire', some have been crippled by denominational issues, while many have been shipwrecked by leadership failures and abuses.

Larger ministry 'ships' can be the fruit of ministry building fueled by the pride of life, lust of the eyes and lust of the flesh, and are thus vulnerable to sinking by loss of senior leaders torpedoed by these foundational weaknesses. A large, horizontal network is also naturally more resilient to aerial attack than a centralized command centre.

Spiritual fathers are building families of healing established on holiness & honour, underpinned and joined together by apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, pastoral and teaching graces submitted to the supremacy of the Lord Jesus Christ in all things Colossians 1:18. Preaching the Good News is the primary task for these fellowships Isaiah 61, with binding up the broken-hearted an essential priority for disciples new and old. Egyptians build pyramids, but the heart of fishermen is to make and mend fishing nets.

4. A military & civilian armada

The Dunkirk evacuation was a team effort of military and civilian personnel. I see this new flotilla working alongside the traditional 'navy' or existing ministry structures where possible. However, most of the rescue work is again being undertaken by civilians, that is 'unpaid' servants, rather than by 'professional' ministers. Many of the flotilla crews included veterans of World War I, similarly, emerging leaders will include the survivors of past moves of God with the patience, wisdom and endurance that combat experience can impart.

5. Who prays wins

All branches of the military were required for a successful outcome. Above all, air cover was essential to shield the rescue ships and protect the stranded soldiers awaiting salvation. Likewise, focused and persistent intercessory prayer is vital: who prays wins.

I see apostles building ships, prophets providing navigation, evangelists pulling the lost on board, pastors keeping vessels seaworthy and teachers equipping the crew for success through the grace and knowledge found in Christ Jesus. These families unite around praise & worship, prayer, the Word, mission, serving, the Lord's Supper and fellowship.

Historically, the salvation of many facing certain death was achieved by a flotilla of civilian ships. The present time requires a host of worshipping families in order to take, occupy and expand their assigned territories.

Part I: The Fragrance of the Dawn

Chapter 1: The Unapproachable Light

In 2009, I had a life-changing encounter with the reality of heaven. It was unexpected and a revelation which profoundly altered my journey of faith. This pilgrimage had begun in the Himalayas in 2004, upon a mountainside in Nepal where I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ.

The circumstances of this year were hard. Within the space of a few months, I was made redundant, betrayed in marriage and received news of my mother's terminal cancer diagnosis. It was a time of desolation like I had never known, despite growing up in poverty, within a single parent family. I looked for comforters and none were found. But God is faithful and rewards the ones who overcome and pursue him through a furnace of affliction.

Moreover, in 2009, I became a witness to the risen Lord Jesus Christ, who dwells in unapproachable light (1 Timothy 6:16). I found myself standing in a place of pure light, so dazzling that I was unable to discern any form. Then, from some distance way, a gentle voice spoke a single word. However, this word was not simply a normal sound. I saw the substance of the word approach quickly, as though passing through a watery medium of liquid light. This word also carried the tangible expression of the speaker's emotions. The word was 'worship' and His feelings were grief. When a child of God suffers, his Father suffers with him.

Chapter 2: The Consuming Fire

This year of trial, and its powerful experiences, came some 4 years after placing my faith wholeheartedly in Jesus Christ. Until this time, I had no experience of fasting as a spiritual discipline. In the depths of this valley, I decided to fast and pray out of desperation and as an outcry to God for help, rather than with any hope of an answer.

Newly born-again Christians are intended, like infants, to belong to a genuine family of faith, with spiritual mothering and fathering. These are foundations of a discipleship process which makes the world of difference between surviving, dying or thriving after birth.

I had fallen asleep in a small basement flat, having lost sense of the passage of time with the prolonged withdrawal of food over many days. My prayers had abandoned asking for any kind of divine intervention and were reduced to simply: 'Show me your glory'. Suddenly, my eyes were opened in an unusual way, rising involuntarily as though a curtain were being raised. I looked up to see a perfectly circular hole open up and slowly enlarge, like a ripple in a pool, to replace most of the ceiling. Above me was an awesome scene of many flames.

Invisible hands slowly levitated me off the bed and towards the consuming fire. I cried out for mercy, to put it mildly. This is who the God of creation is, both clothed in light and an all-consuming fire. After being drawn close and believing I was sure to die, I was then gently lowered down to the bed and the gateway into heaven was closed. Our God is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29). Last of all, something like a ball of flame entered my mouth. As Solomon writes in the Proverbs: 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom'.

Chapter 3: Three Fountains

Later that year, I found myself wandering through a park in a heartbroken daze. Eventually, I came to a pool with several fountains and experienced a touch from heaven.

I saw one fountain which bubbled like a spring, a second which rose up elegantly, while another towered above the others. The realization dawned that, if I forgave a little, then my heart would be like the first fountain, with little of the life of God able to flow. Or, if I chose to forgive a lot, then my condition would be like the second one: a respectable fountain but far less than what might have been.

However, if I forgave totally and walked in complete forgiveness, then I could be like the third fountain: free to enjoy the fullness of life and love of God. It was clear that the choice was mine.

Chapter 4: Journey to the Mountain

'I am with you always, until the end of the age' are words of Jesus in the book of Matthew. This is the first verse that I remember touching me in a meaningful way. I was sixteen years old and preparing for a religious education exam. Those were hard years of loneliness, lack and isolation in a single parent family on state benefits. There was little evidence of the goodness of God, in my eyes, if a creator existed at all. Sadly, my mother was afflicted with severe mental health issues for most of her life. By the grace of God, she remained faithful through the agony of a brain tumor in 2009.

Being gifted and with a religious charity paying for the train ticket to the entrance interviews, I won a place at Cambridge University. Here, entering into a world of privilege and affluence was like arriving on another planet. After graduation, I began a city career with a national newspaper and progressed into investment banking.

I would have called myself a Christian during those years, attending church services and owning a bible. Yet, being religious and having real faith are two radically different states of existence. The difference is like living in a black and white picture or taking part in an epic film. In the deepest place of every heart, there is a space which longs to be satisfied by the love of God. That hunger for relationship constantly seeks to find comfort and peace, usually in all the wrong people, possessions and pursuits. After a season, the restlessness returns.

On completion of my professional exams in 2004, the opportunity arose to take a career break and undertake a solo trip around the world, completing some of the most famous hiking trails. I also decided to take a bible with me and settle the issue of faith by reading it from cover to cover. If it was true then I would pursue Christ wholeheartedly, if not, then I would set this religion aside and move on in life. Unfortunately, for the latter option, I began my dream trip in the Middle East.

To my surprise, reading the bible in Egypt and Israel proved to be a fresh revelation. I discovered profound wisdom and beauty in the words of Jesus. There were heavenly times on this journey. An evening by Lake Galilee, a calm assurance of belonging, with a full moon rising on a warm breeze in the east and the sun setting over the western hills. Then, on Mount Nebo, within an archaeological site, I had sat down and an almost tangible, unfamiliar atmosphere surrounded me. A wholesome peace like nothing I had ever experienced.

Returning to Cairo, I flew to Kathmandu for trails in the Himalayas of Nepal. This awesome land was a wonderful place to draw near to God. I continued to feast on the scriptures on the Annapurna trail, then, having recovered from food poisoning, headed to the region of Mount Everest. Along the way, I stopped to rest and enjoy the view of Ama Dablam, a majestic peak covered in glistening ice. As I stared, I saw the face of a man formed by the ice, with eyes closed in prayer. Then clouds came in and covered the mountain. I assumed it must be a trick of the light. However, the weather eventually cleared and the face remained. I knelt down on the hillside and committed my life to Jesus Christ. As I prayed, it seemed as though I could hear a bell ringing. One journey was over, and another path to freedom was beginning.

I continued on through China, South-East Asia, New Zealand and finally South America. I hiked on the Great Wall, volcanoes, glaciers, through jungle cities and immense waterfalls. In 2004, it was like heaven on earth. A few days before flying back from Rio de Janeiro, I had reached the end of the bible, and my wallet, and fell asleep in a cheap hotel room. I suddenly felt hands holding me down. In panic, I thought that intruders had entered the room, but I was held captive in another place of darkness. I struggled with all my strength but could not escape. All I could think was to shout 'Jesus is Lord' over and over again. As I did this, the hands began to loosen their grip and strike me on the back. I was free and returned to consciousness full of joy and praise.

Chapter 5: Freedom

A process of transformation began on that trip around the world called sanctification or the process of becoming more like Christ in choices, thoughts and emotions. Freedom is the journey of becoming more like Jesus in this world. A healthy relationship with God naturally leads into a family of like-minded disciples, and a genuine family genuinely cares.

One of main areas of captivity that the Holy Spirit would release me from was addiction to pornography. This was a long process made more challenging by the absence of discipleship. Repentance and faith in the blood of Jesus, which cleanses away all sin, fear, guilt and shame, releases the grace of God to bring about real change. In 2010, I emerged from a baptism pool with an unforgettable sense of freedom and purity.

This was also a year of rich creativity, when I began to write most of the poetry contained in this book. One was the Fragrance of the Dawn:

By the river of delights

in a paradise of harmony

I sat down and I wept

when I remembered each selfish moment

until the king himself

embraced and clothed me

with the fragrance of the dawn

and the perfume of his grace

in the garden of his mercy

I buried the past

and I buried my senses

in the scent of hope renewed

One thing that the experience of betrayal imparts is a deeper understanding of the heart of God the Father. No one has been more betrayed than Jesus and, upon the cross, Christ paid the price for the worst conceivable depravity that you or I have committed. It is the kindness of God that leads us to repentance. The cross is the perfection of this kindness to humanity.

In forgiving the worst that has been done to us, we also advance the kingdom of His grace. It is a hard battle at times, but pressing on leads to the victory of an overcomer. Forgiveness is the door to the Kingdom of Heaven and repentance is the key.

There is no end to the love of God and the experience of His friendship which cannot be earned or deserved, it is the simple gift of grace which is free to anyone and everyone who will humble themselves to receive it. You do not need a priest or any man to forgive your sins.

A salvation prayer

'Heavenly Father, I come before you in the name of Jesus Christ. I acknowledge that I am a sinner and I am sorry for the sins I have committed. (Name anything that comes to mind). I ask for your forgiveness for all my sins.

Father, I believe that your Son Jesus Christ shed His blood on the cross and died for my sins, and I now choose to turn from all of them. Your Word says that if I confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, I shall be saved.

I confess Jesus Christ is my Saviour and Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. Thank you, Lord Jesus for dying for me, cleansing me and granting me the gift of everlasting life. Come Holy Spirit, fill me and lead me into a family of faith. Amen.'
Part II: The Menorah Bride

Preparing the Ekklesia

For restoring the apostolic church according to the vision presented through Solomon in his poem to a perfect bride.

The final verses of Solomon's Proverbs described an extraordinary woman some 3000 years ago. In these scriptures, the Holy Spirit also writes a love poem for our generation, to the Bride of Jesus Christ, and a pattern for His family, the everlasting Ekklesia.

'Let us rejoice and be glad, and give Him the glory, for the marriage supper of the Lamb has come, and His wife has prepared herself' Revelation 19:7. Who will prepare this Bride? Sons and daughters serving as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. These have been appointed to help birth, mature and oversee the children of God in the work of ministry: 'it was given to her to be dressed in white linen, bright and clean, which are the righteous acts of the saints' Revelation 19:8.

In Revelation 1:12, the apostle John also describes a vision of seven golden Menorah or λυχνίαν which the risen Christ reveals as representing seven Ekklesia. Looking at the original plan for the Moses' Menorah in Exodus 25:31-40, also offers insights into a Bride designed to shine.

I hope that these revelations will delight, inspire and encourage you to co-labour with the Holy Spirit in preparing His wife for the approaching day of joy.

Scriptures translated from the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts underlying the King James Version.

Introduction \- The Perfect Bride Proverbs 31:10-31

Each verse of Solomon's poem begins a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, from aleph א to tau ת.

10 A mighty wife who can find? Her value is far above rubies

אֵשֶׁת חַיִל מִי יִמְצָא וְרָחֹק מִפְּנִינִים מִכְרָהּ

11 the heart of her husband trusts in her and there is no lack of spoil

בָּטַח בָּהּ לֵב בַּעְלָהּ וְשָׁלָל לֹא יֶחְסָר

12 she rewards Him good and not evil all the days of her life

גְּמָלַתְהוּ טוֹב וְלֹא רָע כֹּל יְמֵי חַיֶּיהָ

13 she seeks wool and flax, and her palms work with delight

דָּרְשָׁה צֶמֶר וּפִשְׁתִּים וַתַּעַשׂ בְּחֵפֶץ כַּפֶּיהָ

14 she is like the merchant ships; she brings her food from afar

הָיְתָה כָּאֳנִיּוֹת סוֹחֵר מִמֶּרְחָק תָּבִיא לַחְמָהּ

15 and she rises while it is still night, and gives food to her household, and a decree to her maidservants

וַתָּקָם בְּעוֹד לַיְלָהוַתִּתֵּן טֶרֶף לְבֵיתָהּ וְחֹק לְנַעֲרֹתֶיהָ

16 she examines a field, and takes it; with the fruit of her palms she plants a vineyard

זָמְמָה שָׂדֶה וַתִּקָּחֵהוּ מִפְּרִי כַפֶּיהָ נטע כָּרֶם

17 she girds her loins with power, and strengthens her arms

חָגְרָה בְעוֹז מָתְנֶיהָ וַתְּאַמֵּץ זְרוֹעֹתֶיהָ

18 she discerns that her merchandise is good; her lamp does not go out at night

טָעֲמָה כִּי טוֹב סַחְרָהּ לֹא יִכְבֶּה בליל נֵרָהּ

19 she sends her hands to the distaff, and her palms hold the spindle

יָדֶיהָ שִׁלְּחָה בַכִּישׁוֹר וְכַפֶּיהָ תָּמְכוּ פָלֶךְ

20 she spreads her palm to the poor; she sends her hands to the needy

כַּפָּהּ פָּרְשָׂה לֶעָנִי וְיָדֶיהָ שִׁלְּחָה לָאֶבְיוֹן

21 she is not afraid of the snow for her household; for all her household are clothed with scarlet

לֹא תִירָא לְבֵיתָהּ מִשָּׁלֶג כִּי כָל בֵּיתָהּ לָבֻשׁ שָׁנִים

22 she makes covers for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple

מַרְבַדִּים עָשְׂתָה לָּהּ שֵׁשׁ וְאַרְגָּמָן לְבוּשָׁהּ

23 her husband is known in the gates, when he sits with the elders of the land

נוֹדָע בַּשְּׁעָרִים בַּעְלָהּ בְּשִׁבְתּוֹ עִם זִקְנֵי אָרֶץ

24 she makes linen garments and sells them; and gives belts to the merchants

סָדִין עָשְׂתָה וַתִּמְכֹּר וַחֲגוֹר נָתְנָה לַכְּנַעֲנִי

25 power and magnificence are her clothing; and she laughs at the day to come

עֹז וְהָדָר לְבוּשָׁהּ וַתִּשְׂחַק לְיוֹם אַחֲרוֹן

26 she opens her mouth with wisdom; and the law of loving-kindness is on her tongue

פִּיהָ פָּתְחָה בְחָכְמָה וְתוֹרַת חֶסֶד עַל לְשׁוֹנָהּ

27 she watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of laziness

צוֹפִיָּה הֲלִיכוֹת בֵּיתָהּ וְלֶחֶם עַצְלוּת לֹא תֹאכֵל

28 her children rise up and bless her; her husband praises her:

קָמוּ בָנֶיהָ וַיְאַשְּׁרוּהָ בַּעְלָהּ וַיְהַלְלָהּ

29 'Many daughters work mightily, but you rise above them all.'

רַבּוֹת בָּנוֹת עָשׂוּ חָיִל וְאַתְּ עָלִית עַל כֻּלָּנָה

30 deceitful the charm, vain the beauty; a woman that fears the Lord, she shall be praised

שֶׁקֶר הַחֵן וְהֶבֶל הַיֹּפִי אִשָּׁה יִרְאַת יְהוָה הִיא תִתְהַלָּל

31 give her of the fruit of her palms; and let her works praise her in the gates

תְּנוּ לָהּ מִפְּרִי יָדֶיהָ וִיהַלְלוּהָ בַשְּׁעָרִים מַעֲשֶׂיהָ

CHAPTER 1 – Mighty in His Presence/Aleph

אֵשֶׁת חַיִל מִי יִמְצָא וְרָחֹק מִפְּנִינִים מִכְרָהּ

'A mighty wife who can find? Her value is far above rubies' v.10

אֵשֶׁת חַיִל

This 'mighty wife' (aishet khaiyl) reflects the fullness of His love, grace and authority. Popular translations used terms such as valiant, noble or virtuous wife; the underlying sense is one of a powerful woman.

מִי יִמְצָא וְרָחֹק מִפְּנִינִים מִכְרָהּ

Who can find her? The Lord is searching for a people who can steward His presence. The word for rubies contains three letters which form the word meaning 'my face' (פְּנִי peni). Throughout scripture, the face of Elohim represents His presence: 'seek His face continually' Psalm 105:4. Similarly, a single jewel has many faces and His church/ekklesia is a host of unique facets. His presence is the priceless treasure within and upon us, far beyond value. A red ruby also speaks of an everlasting foundation built upon His presence and the revelation of the blood of Jesus, signifying all that the finished work of the cross has achieved, summarised in Romans 8. Therefore, we begin with Christ as the cornerstone Ephesians 2:20, His presence and power among us permeated by the authority of the blood of Jesus, to receive and release His love and grace.

The heart of the apostolic church is like a human heart, with chambers receiving and sending blood throughout the body. Church or Ekklesia as Bride and Family are the essential heart rhythm for life. As His Bride we fulfil the greatest commandment to 'love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your strength and all your mind' Luke 10:27; as His Family to 'love your neighbour as yourself'. We learn to receive and give in vertical worship, to give and receive in horizontal community. Consequently, His love establishes, supports, strengthens and covers the House of God.

In Exodus 25, Moses is instructed: 'you shall make a menorah of pure gold'. This symbolizes His precious Bride. Pure gold is also the outcome of a searching or refining process which, in the Ekklesia and our own lives, Christ initiates and oversees to completion. The first description of His church by the Risen Jesus in the book of Revelation is a reference to Menorah. This offers an important signpost to deeper understanding of the mystery of the Ekklesia. One of its seven lamps represents the Spirit of the Lord Isaiah 61:1, which rests upon and empowers the chosen Bride He is searching for.

CHAPTER 2 – Trusted in Battle/Beit

בָּטַח בָּהּ לֵב בַּעְלָהּ וְשָׁלָל לֹא יֶחְסָר

'The heart of her husband trusts in her and there is no lack of spoil' v.11

The second verse begins with בָּטַח or or 'batakh', the word for trust used throughout the Psalms. Here, we encounter the revelation that His church has the privilege of carrying His very own humble and gentle heart into a battlefield armed with worship, prayer and service. All authority rests in the heart of the King. Authority in the Kingdom is a function of harmony with His heart, which grows through the pursuit of a deeper relationship with the Godhead. 'Seek first the Kingdom and His Righteousness' Matthew 6:33 encourages us to bring our worship, prayer and service into alignment with His heart.

וְשָׁלָל

'Shalal' or 'spoil' implies a contest between the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. While the Aleph Bride is a worshipper, the Beit Bride is fighting the good fight of faith: first a lover, then a fighter. Battles release the spoils of war: souls won, testimonies gained, characters refined and authority displayed.

לֹא יֶחְסָר

This final phrase 'there is no lack' has echoes in Psalm 23, literally 'Lord my shepherd, I will not lack' and is an essential declaration of the church in the last days. The Beit Bride is building a spiritual house with heaven's superabundant resources and the fruits of His conquering love. The magnet between heaven and earth has always been faith in His word. The Lord trusts in us and we trust in Him.

The pure gold of the Temple Menorah also signifies purity of faith, as 1 Peter 1:7 says: 'your faith, more precious than gold'. The Menorah Bride expresses the miraculous, saving faith of Jesus in Acts 3:16 – 'through faith in His name'.

CHAPTER 3 – A Rewarding Life/Gimel

גְּמָלַתְהוּ טוֹב וְלֹא רָע כֹּל יְמֵי חַיֶּיהָ

'She rewards Him with good and not evil all the days of her life' v.12

גְּמָלַתְהוּ

Our love is the Lord's reward for His suffering on the cross. The Gimel Bride walks in the revelation that she is His inheritance and the desire of His heart: Christ Jesus, who 'for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God' Hebrews 12:2. She knows that He yearns for His reward: 'I am for my beloved, on me His desire' Song of Songs 7:11.

טוֹב וְלֹא רָע

She overcomes darkness with light, through every choice made to honour and glorify the King, 'do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good' Romans 12:21.

Love is a multitude of choices to listen and obey, to surrender our will to the Father's. In Song of Songs 4:4, the Bride is praised 'your neck is like the Tower of David, built like an armoury, hanging with a thousand shields, all shields of mighty men.' The neck represents the will to choose and every shield a choice to overcome.

כֹּל יְמֵי חַיֶּיהָ

This Ekklesia is wholly consecrated to her husband, all the days of her life. The journey of consecration is an inward to deeper faith, hope and love with outward manifestations of peace and joy.

CHAPTER 4 – Purposeful Palms/Dalet

דָּרְשָׁה צֶמֶר וּפִשְׁתִּים וַתַּעַשׂ בְּחֵפֶץ כַּפֶּיהָ

'She seeks wool and flax, and her palms work with delight' v.13

דָּרְשָׁה

The Bride is purposeful and seeks the raw materials to make the clothing of testimony: 'it was given to her to be dressed in white linen, bright and clean, which are the righteous acts of the saints' Revelation 19:8. Flax fibres are spun into the thread for linen garments.

צֶמֶר וּפִשְׁתִּים

Wool and flax also represent the Jewish and Gentile churches, who comprise the 'one new man' of Ephesian 2:15. The Lord Jesus Christ was sent to the 'lost sheep of Israel' Matthew 15:24, while flax was famously cultivated in ancient Egypt, a nation which usually typifies a people outside of the covenant promises of Abraham. This Bride has a passion for unity, honours the Jewish faith and respects the Jewish nation in the heart and purposes of God.

וַתַּעַשׂ בְּחֵפֶץ כַּפֶּיהָ

Solomon's poem has a special focus on this woman's hands. These references signify the fivefold ministry of Ephesians 4:12 'for equipping the saints for the work of ministry, for edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ'. Men and women with the privilege of these offices are called to work with joy alongside the Holy Spirit in preparing the Bride, leading others into the rest of Matthew 11:28 and to be consumed by the First Love of Revelation 2:4.

The Menorah of Exodus 25 is a hammered work, all of one piece. This expresses the unity of faith, Jew & Gentile, which all believers share as we are brought into conformity with the image of Christ.

The palms of the Bride: the Fivefold Ministry

ἀποστόλους

Apostles are people sent into a sphere of influence to establish the kingdom. As sons and daughters they are able to draw others into the security, acceptance and significance found in Christ. They pursue the fullness of the glory of God in surrender of spirit, soul and body to the love of the Father. Apostles are focussed on multiplication, empowered to speak with His authority, to assert the revelation of the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, based on a demonstrable and fruitful walk in the love of God.

προφήτας

Prophets reveal the desires and purposes of God. As servants, they demonstrate passion for God's word, carrying His burdens in prayer. As watchman, they draw near the Father's wisdom, understanding and revelation for the strengthening, guidance and building up of the church. Prophets also speak the agenda of Heaven into reality, perceiving the unseen reality, consumed by His holiness and zeal for the manifestation of the Glory of God.

εὐαγγελιστάς

Evangelists demonstrate the love and power of the Kingdom of Heaven. As ambassadors, they proclaim the gospel, lifting up the person of Jesus Christ above all other names. They minister the Word of God to cleanse, heal, deliver and save in the authority of the Covenant of Grace.

ποιμένας

Pastors help to guide & care for the needs of God's people. As a passionate disciple, pastor forms disciples. He shepherds God's people towards the fullness of Christ expressed in the Lordship and Kingship of Christ. Shepherds display the power and life of Christ through transformative relationships which glorify God.

διδασκάλους

Teachers express the revelation of the life of Christ in word and action, in unity and surrender to the will of God. As stewards, they exercise discernment between truth and error, good and evil, in administering sound doctrine and the revelation of the 'mysteries of God' 1 Corinthians 4:1 to the church. Teachers illuminate the paths which empower God's people to express the reality of Heaven, leading us to grow in the strength and authority of the covenant of His grace.

CHAPTER 5 – Resting in Revelation/Hei

הָיְתָה כָּאֳנִיּוֹת סוֹחֵר מִמֶּרְחָק תָּבִיא לַחְמָהּ

'She is like the merchant ships; she brings her food from afar' v.14

הָיְתָה כָּאֳנִיּוֹת סוֹחֵר

In the last days, His Bride has learned to rest in all weathers. Proverbs 30:19-20 describes the mystery of rest with respect to four fundamental elements. 'There are three things too wonderful for me, four I do not know. The way of the eagle in the heavens; the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a merchant ship in the heart of the sea and the way of a man with a virgin'. Eagles rest on the wind, serpents rest on the earth, ships rest on the water and between Christ and His Bride is fire of His love. She rests in the fire.

מִמֶּרְחָק תָּבִיא לַחְמָה

The Bride is a church of revelation. She brings spiritual food from heaven to feed her children, a gateway for heaven to be poured on the earth. When heaven seems most distant, she will shine brightest: 'where sin abounded, grace abounded even more' Romans 5:20. Her capacity to receive and steward the revelation of Jesus Christ also arises from entering into the rest of the Secret Place described in Psalm 91: 'He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall rest in the shadow of the Almighty'.

The Golden Menorah illuminates the Holy Place of the Old Testament Tabernacle. Similarly, this Holy Bride shines the light of Christ's revelation into the world: 'Arise, shine for you light has come and the glory of God is risen upon you' Isaiah 60:1

CHAPTER 6 – Rising, Giving and Decreeing/Vav

וַתָּקָם בְּעוֹד לַיְלָה וַתִּתֵּן טֶרֶף לְבֵיתָהּ וְחֹק לְנַעֲרֹתֶיהָ

'And she rises while it is still night, and gives food to her household, and a decree to her maidservants' v.15

וַתָּקָם בְּעוֹד לַיְלָה

It is night in our world, growing darker and the Bride is rising. The darkest hour will come before the dawn. The prophet Daniel spoke to our time: 'until the end, war' Daniel 9:26. Our war is to love and to love until the end.

וַתִּתֵּן טֶרֶף לְבֵיתָהּ

Love is a giver and this Bride provides for her own house. The book of Acts reveals a depth of communal love, mutual provision and yieldedness to the Holy Spirit which has been a golden standard for every generation since Pentecost. Giving is the secret of multiplication in all spheres of the Kingdom: 'For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son...' John 3:16 that is, even sowing the Son, to reap the Bride.

וְחֹק לְנַעֲרֹתֶיהָ

She gives a decree, a חֹק or 'Hoq', to her maidservants; a term used for an instrument of divine governance in Psalm 2:7 and throughout Psalm 119. The last days Bride is a church of decree, diligent in making proclamations over individuals, families, communities and nations. Maidservants also speaks of the angelic realm, assigned to minister to the 'heirs of salvation' Hebrews 1:14. These decrees arise from a heart of maturing Sonship: 'He declares his Word to Jacob, his decrees and judgements to Israel' Psalm 149:19.

CHAPTER 7 – Expanding and Multiplying/Zayin

זָמְמָה שָׂדֶה וַתִּקָּחֵהוּ מִפְּרִי כַפֶּיהָ נטע כָּרֶם

'She examines a field, and takes it; with the fruit of her palms she plants a vineyard' v.16

זָמְמָה שָׂדֶה וַתִּקָּחֵהוּ

The word for 'examine' or 'zamema' carries the sense of a design or device. This Bride is discerning, strategic and expansionary. She considers a territory or a mountain, then takes it. A mind fixed on the greatest of God and a heart which is in love with the King makes all things possible, turns problems into opportunities to experience and express His glory.

מִפְּרִי כַפֶּיהָ נטע כָּרֶם

From the fruit of her palms, the fivefold ministries, she plants churches. There is an inherent reproductive dynamic in the apostolic Bride. All members participate meaningfully in the life of the church and are actively encouraged to mature in their character, gifting and calling.

The Golden Menorah represents life as well as light, with its arrangement of blossoms, almonds and bulbs. Gold is the foremost apostolic foundation material, according to Paul in 1 Corinthains 3:12, alongside silver and precious stones which can endure fire for an eternal reward.

CHAPTER 8 – Empowered and Encouraged/Khet

חָגְרָה בְעוֹז מָתְנֶיהָ וַתְּאַמֵּץ זְרוֹעֹתֶיהָ

'She girds her loins with power, and strengthens her arms' v.17

חָגְרָה בְעוֹז מָתְנֶיהָ

The Bride understands the importance of being empowered with divine power, following Paul's advice in Ephesians 6:10 to be energised for battle. Here, the word for power is עוֹז or 'oz', which relates to His sustaining power. The loins represent an area of strength and vulnerability. The place of intimacy is the place of power: in the secret place of relationship with Christ, we are strengthened in faith, hope and love.

וַתְּאַמֵּץ זְרוֹעֹתֶיהָ

In strengthening her arms, or capacity to work, תְּאַמֵּץ or 't'amaitz' has the same root word used in commissioning Joshua after the death of Moses: 'be strong and very courageous' (hazaq v'ematz m'od) Joshua 1:7. The fullness of life for His Bride and His inheritance within us is always contested in spiritual warfare. Courage, perseverance, patience and endurance in His love all require an impartation of His enabling power.

The Temple Menorah has seven lamps, with the oil representing the power of the Holy Spirit which enables us to shine, as Zechariah 4:6 declares: 'Not by might, not by power but by my Spirit says the Lord God of Hosts'. This signifies resting in the Word and Spirit as we wait in the presence of God: 'But those who wait upon on the Lord will renew strength' Isaiah 40:31.

Ephesians 1:19 mentions three aspects of divine power: ischus (strength), kratos (dominion) and dunamis (transformative power). We experience His power in unity and communion with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit: 'that they may be one, as we are one: I in them and you in me,' John 17:23.

Dunamis the power of the Holy Spirit in the release of the revelation of His holiness, light and peace. The Spirit of holiness Romans 1:4 leads us on the path of joy, while His wisdom teaches gentleness James 3:17.

CHAPTER 9 – Discerning and Wise/Tet

טָעֲמָה כִּי טוֹב סַחְרָהּ לֹא יִכְבֶּה בליל נֵרָהּ

'She discerns that her merchandise is good; her lamp does not go out at night' v.18

טָעֲמָה כִּי טוֹב סַחְרָהּ

The Bride tastes or discerns that her merchandise is worth selling. This speaks of confidence in her identity. Hebrew 10:35 urges believers to prize the boldness and endurance which have great reward.

Identity takes many forms as we grow in the revelation of Christ. For example, Part III discusses 10 aspects of discipleship:

'Sons dwell in the Word and Spirit,

Lovers worship in Spirit and Truth,

Ambassadors proclaim the truth of His peace,

Priests cleanse with the peace of His truth,

Disciples follow the wisdom of His holiness,

Shepherds lead with the holiness of His wisdom,

Servants obey in the humility of His gentleness,

Watchmen speak with the gentleness of His grace,

Brothers yield to the light of His glory,

Stewards walk diligently in faith, hope and love.'

לֹא יִכְבֶּה בליל נֵרָהּ

Her lamp burns through the night as represented by the five wise virgins of Matthew 25:1-13. She has learned to abide in the Holy of Holies, where the First Love is found. In the outer court, disciples grow in a revelation of the cross, represented by the bronze altar in the Temple, and the washing of the Word of God, signified by the bronze laver for washing. In the Holy Place, servants grow in the sevenfold Spirit of God, Isaiah 11:2, symbolised by the golden Menorah, experience a measure of His presence at the table of showbread and offer up worship at the golden altar of incense. However, the fullness of friendship, inheritance and fruitfulness are found in the Holy of Holies where lovers meet face to face along the paths of First Love on Mount Zion: 'remember from where you have fallen, repent and do the first works' Revelation 2:5.

CHAPTER 10 – The Bride of Two Loves/Yod

יָדֶיהָ שִׁלְּחָה בַכִּישׁוֹר וְכַפֶּיהָ תָּמְכוּ פָלֶךְ

'She sends her hands to the distaff, and her palms hold the spindle' v.19

יָדֶיהָ שִׁלְּחָה בַכִּישׁוֹר

Love is patient. Now the Bride is preparing to make clothes by weaving flax fibres into thread. This is a beautiful picture of waiting on the Lord, as she draws and spins the fibres together from the vertical distaff onto the spinning spindle. We can also see a representation of greatest commandment 'love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your strength and all your mind' Luke 10:27. Her work requires patience, perseverance and consistency. Waiting on the Lord precedes the work of the Kingdom and walking in His testimonies.

וְכַפֶּיהָ תָּמְכוּ פָלֶךְ

The spindle is usually held horizontally, portraying the intimate and inseparable connection between the love of God and neighbour. The palm which holds the spindle, representing the fivefold ministries, are maintained in a position of humility well beneath the distaff, in order to receive the Father's grace to 'love your neighbour as yourself'.

The Temple Menorah also embodies these two commandments, with a central stem supporting six branches which spread out horizontally. This emphasises how our ministry to the world is empowered by our vertical relationship with Jesus Christ, the light of the world John 8:12. Again, the entire lampstand is made of one talent of gold, which also speaks of the unity within the Bride which flows from honouring the commandments to love God and neighbour.

CHAPTER 11 – The Commissioned Wife/Kaf

כַּפָּהּ פָּרְשָׂה לֶעָנִי וְיָדֶיהָ שִׁלְּחָה לָאֶבְיוֹן

'She spreads her palm to the poor; she sends her hands to the needy' v.20

כַּפָּהּ פָּרְשָׂה לֶעָנִי

Having been established on the commandments to love, this Bride is responding to the Great Commission: 'All authority has been given to me in heaven and upon earth: go, then, and make disciples of all nations' Matthew 28:18-19. The palm of the fivefold ministries Ephesians 4:11 are spread to the poor in spirit with the gospel of Jesus Christ and the mandate of Isaiah 61:1.

וְיָדֶיהָ שִׁלְּחָה לָאֶבְיוֹן

The last days Ekklesia is practically engaged with most needy and destitute in spirit, soul and body: 'heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons: freely you have received, freely give' Matthew 10:8.

The Menorah carries lamps on each of the six branches attached to the vertical stem. Each shines light into a unique place of darkness in need of the presence and power of the Kingdom of Heaven.

CHAPTER 12 – Peace through the Blood/Lamed

לֹא תִירָא לְבֵיתָהּ מִשָּׁלֶג כִּי כָל בֵּיתָהּ לָבֻשׁ שָׁנִים

'She is not afraid of the snow for her household; for all her household are clothed with scarlet' v.21

לֹא תִירָא

She does not fear: לֹא תִירָא or 'lo tira'. Perfect love is casting out all fear from the perfect bride 1 John 4:18. 'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be unsettled or fearful' John 14:27. This is another verse which resonates with Psalm 23, 'I will fear no evil' verse 4.

מִשָּׁלֶג כִּי כָל בֵּיתָהּ לָבֻשׁ שָׁנִי

Snow represents times of adversity or judgement, however this Bride is clothed with scarlet: the revelation of the blood of Jesus. We have peace through His blood and can rest in the fire of His love.

The magnificent gold of the Temple Menorah can be a reminder for the great price of redemption purchased by death of Christ. It also possible to view the lampstand as itself a tree foreshadowing the work of the cross.

CHAPTER 13 – Purity and Royalty/Mem

מַרְבַדִּים עָשְׂתָה לָּהּ שֵׁשׁ וְאַרְגָּמָן לְבוּשָׁהּ

'She makes covers for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple' v.22

מַרְבַדִּים עָשְׂתָה לָּהּ

The Bride makes covers to spread on her couch, the place of rest and intimacy. She is purposeful in creating a pure place of encounter with the King.

שֵׁשׁ וְאַרְגָּמָן לְבוּשָׁהּ

She walks in white, the revelation of righteousness through faith in Christ Jesus, and purple, the revelation of royal authority sustained by intimacy and purity. Her passion is for holiness: 'that He might present her to Himself as the glorious Ekklesia, with no spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and without blemish,' Ephesians 5:25.

CHAPTER 14 – Focused and Influential/Nun

נוֹדָע בַּשְּׁעָרִים בַּעְלָהּ בְּשִׁבְתּוֹ עִם זִקְנֵי אָרֶץ

'Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits with the elders of the land' v.23

נוֹדָע בַּשְּׁעָרִים בַּעְלָהּ

The last days Bride is focused on lifting up the King, to make His name famous and has influence in the gates, or places of authority, in the heavens and upon the earth, in all spheres of society and human endeavour. Song of Songs 6:10 describes His glory: 'who is this looking down like the dawn? Beautiful as the moon, pure as the sun, awesome as a victorious army?' Her transformation into His image has arisen from a steadfast gaze on her Beloved.

בְּשִׁבְתּוֹ בְּשִׁבְתּוֹ עִם זִקְנֵי אָרֶץ

This Bride is positioned to overcome and sit with the King on his throne of rest, as he also overcame and sat with His Father on this throne, Revelation 3:21. 'Rule in the midst of your enemies' Psalm 110:2.

One of the Menorah lamps signifies the Spirit of Counsel of Isaiah 11:2. The Menorah Bride has heavenly wisdom to share with the world.

CHAPTER 15 – Designer Clothing/Samekh

סָדִין עָשְׂתָה וַתִּמְכֹּר וַחֲגוֹר נָתְנָה לַכְּנַעֲנִי

'She makes linen garments and sells them; and gives belts to the merchants' v.24

סָדִין עָשְׂתָה וַתִּמְכֹּר

The Bride is a merchant of clothes inspired by heaven and manufactured on earth: 'it was given to her to be dressed in white linen, bright and clean, which are the righteous acts of the saints' Revelation 19:8. She is clothed in expensively designed testimonies: 'they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, and they did not love their souls even unto death' Revelation 12:11. Her testimonies were paid for by the precious blood of Jesus, who set the perfect example of a costly walk of faith.

וַחֲגוֹר נָתְנָה לַכְּנַעֲנִי

This Bride gives belts of truth to the 'canaani' or Canaanite traders. This signifies the free message of free salvation which the church carries like a merchant to the four corners. However, there is also an important warning in the use of the word Canaanite: to steward His revelation carefully so as to glorify the King rather than to trade on His wisdom and truth in order to derive personal profit, increase or honour. A wrong or self-seeking motive along these lines follows in the footsteps of Satan, as described in Ezekiel 28, and calls for repentance.

Two of the Menorah lamps signify the spirits of Wisdom and Understanding. These spirits facilitate the Ekklesia's calling to receive and process revelation for the honour and glory of God.

CHAPTER 16 – Magnificent Joy/Ayin

עֹז וְהָדָר לְבוּשָׁהּ וַתִּשְׂחַק לְיוֹם אַחֲרוֹן

'Power and magnificence are her clothing; and she laughs at the day to come' v.25

עֹז וְהָדָר לְבוּשָׁהּ

His mighty wife is again depicted as being clothed with power and הָדָר/'hadar' or magnificence. She looks amazing as carries of the glory of heaven: 'arise, shine for your light has come and glory of the Lord has risen upon you' Isaiah 60:1.

וַתִּשְׂחַק לְיוֹם אַחֲרוֹן

In the last days, she is the Bride of joy, cherishing His presence and abiding in heights of the First Love. Her eyes are fixed upon Jesus the author and perfecter of her faith, which guards her heart and wellspring of divine life and energy, Proverbs 4:23. The joy of the Lord is her power, Nehemiah 8:10.

One of the Menorah lamps signifies the Spirit of Might Isaiah 11:2. The yielded Menorah Bride is uniquely gifted to represent Christ, the 'dunamis' or transformative power of God 1 Corinthians 1:24.

CHAPTER 17 – Beautiful Lips/Pei

פִּיהָ פָּתְחָה בְחָכְמָה וְתוֹרַת חֶסֶד עַל לְשׁוֹנָהּ

'She opens her mouth with wisdom; and the law of loving-kindness is on her tongue' v.26

The Bride guards her lips to speak wisdom and love. Wisdom is listening to Christ 'the power and wisdom of God' 1 Corinthians 1:24, therefore she is committed to hearing His voice. Consequently, when she speaks there is authority, gentleness and profound impact.

וְתוֹרַת חֶסֶד עַל לְשׁוֹנָהּ

This Ekklesia is a community which has learned to love one another purely and wisely. Her authority is magnified by unity in the Holy Spirit, which the tongue can build or destroy. The law of loving-kindness is on her tongue to create, sustain and repair this unity through truthfulness, honour and graciousness. Unity is beautiful and commands a blessing, Psalm 133.

One of the Menorah lamps signifies the Spirit of Knowledge Isaiah 11:2. The Menorah Bride stewards the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, especially the gospel of grace and 'mercy triumphs over judgement' James 2:13.

CHAPTER 18 – Watchful and Active/Tzadde

צוֹפִיָּה הֲלִיכוֹת בֵּיתָהּ וְלֶחֶם עַצְלוּת לֹא תֹאכֵל

'She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of laziness' v.27

צוֹפִיָּה הֲלִיכוֹת בֵּיתָהּ

Love is vigilant and wisdom watches. This Bride is overseen by a form of governance seeking to bring her into harmony with the will of the Father and His righteousness. Leadership rests in the hands of anointed fivefold offices, is derived from real friendships rather than legal or contractual arrangements, with a minimum of hierarchy consistent with the familial governance demonstrated within the book of Acts and apostolic letters: brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, elders and overseers.

וְלֶחֶם עַצְלוּת לֹא תֹאכֵל

Given the important of rest for His Ekklesia, this verse highlights that resting and waiting on the Lord can be confused with inactivity and passivity. Fruitfulness arises from diligently entering His rest, Hebrews 4:11 and abiding in the Lord, John 15:8, that we bear much enduring fruit to the Father's glory.

The ways of the Father's house reflect His righteousness, justice and mercy: 'righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne' Psalm 97:2. Righteousness is harmony with the Father's heart of love; His righteousness finds expression in a life of love: 'Seek first the Kingdom and His righteousness,' Matthew 6:33. The Father's justice governs all of creation and reveals His faithfulness: 'Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds...Your judgments are a great deep,' Psalm 35:5-6; while His mercy in expressed in His patience, desiring all men to be saved 2 Peter 3:9.

CHAPTER 19 – Ascending and Blessing/Qof

קָמוּ בָנֶיהָ וַיְאַשְּׁרוּהָ בַּעְלָהּ וַיְהַלְלָהּ

'Her children rise up and bless her; her husband praises her' v.28

קָמוּ בָנֶיהָ

Literally translated as 'rise up her children' ('qamu vaneha') is the Father's mandate for the Bride to take her place of authority, love and grace. Practically, this means the pursuit of humility in worship and service which positions her to walk in the fullness of the Father's grace for the humble.

וַיְאַשְּׁרוּהָ

Speaking blessing over the Bride is also mandatory for children of the Most High. This Ekklesia trains herself to bless the people of God within the local family, across ministries and denominations.

בַּעְלָהּ וַיְהַלְלָהּ

The Lord Jesus Christ delights to display His bride. The root word for praise is 'halal' or 'shine'. He desires to make His wife shine through encountering His light: 'We all, with unveiled face beholding the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory' 2 Corinthians 3:18.

CHAPTER 20 – Above Them All/Resh

רַבּוֹת בָּנוֹת עָשׂוּ חָיִל וְאַתְּ עָלִית עַל כֻּלָּנָה

'Many daughters work mightily, but you rise above them all' v.29

רַבּוֹת בָּנוֹת עָשׂוּ חָיִל

This Bride is matchless amongst the Father's daughters, with a stunning hope and future to abide and rule with Him in the New Jerusalem, Revelation 21. 'Do you not know that we will judge angels?' 1 Corinthians 6:3.

וְאַתְּ עָלִית עַל כֻּלָּנָה

The rising church also hints at 1 Thessalonians 4:17: 'then we who are living and remain, shall be caught up together with those in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air and be with the Lord forever'. She rises above them all.

CHAPTER 21 – Grace, Beauty & Fear/Shin

שֶׁקֶר הַחֵן וְהֶבֶל הַיֹּפִי אִשָּׁה יִרְאַת יְהוָה הִיא תִתְהַלָּל

'Deceitful the charm, vain the beauty; a woman that fears the Lord, she shall be praised' v.30

שֶׁקֶר הַחֵן

The word for 'charm' also means 'grace'. The last days Bride has to contend with a false grace message, as old as the one spoken against by the apostle Jude: 'turning the grace of our God into sensuality' verse 4, that is, a license for ungodly living.

וְלֶחֶם עַצְלוּת לֹא תֹאכֵל

This Bride also outshines the shallow 'beauty' of Christian religious systems, whether ritualistic without relationship with the Father, or commercialised and driven by false motives.

אִשָּׁה יִרְאַת יְהוָה הִיא תִתְהַלָּל

In contrast, the Ekklesia carries the holy fear of the Lord. 'Fear came upon every soul and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles' Acts 2:43. Can the First Love and fear of the Lord walk together in harmony? Holy love and fear of the Lord are heartbeats of the apostolic church.

One of the Menorah lamps signifies the fear of the Lord Isaiah 11:2. The Menorah Bride is profoundly reverential in worship and so consumed by the Bridegroom that perfect love casts out fear 1 John 4:18.

CHAPTER 22 – Fivefold Fruits/Tau

תְּנוּ לָהּ מִפְּרִי יָדֶיהָ וִיהַלְלוּהָ בַשְּׁעָרִים מַעֲשֶׂיהָ

'Give her of the fruit of her palms; and let her works praise her in the gates' v.31

In the final verse, we return to her hands, the fivefold ministries: 'give her the fruit of her palms'. Apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors and teachers have been appointed to help birth, mature and oversee the children of God. The works of the Bride are Sons and Daughters.

The heart of mothering is imparting how to receive and abide in being loved with a secure identity, the heart of fathering is imparting how to give and live wisely with a fruitful walk. We pass through seasons of mothering and fathering on the undulating path to spiritual maturity, from breastfeeding and nurturing to overcoming and walking in victory.

The seven spirits of God of Revelation 3:1, represented by the seven Menorah lamps, help to raise up these children of God. We learn to exercise authority in love, and love in authority.

'Let us rejoice and be glad, and give Him the glory, for the marriage supper of the Lamb has come, and His wife has prepared herself' Revelation 19:7.

Part III: Devotions

The Fragrance of the Dawn

By the river of delights

in a paradise of harmony

I sat down and I wept

when I remembered each selfish moment

until the king himself

embraced and clothed me

with the fragrance of the dawn

and the perfume of his grace

in the garden of his mercy

I buried the past

and I buried my senses

in the scent of hope renewed

White Roses

In the garden there is a cascade of white roses

and I think of each year like a bloom

these ones stolen by the pursuit of shallow beauty

instead of the character that never fades,

and grows ever more lovely to behold,

since such a beauty is captive to her faults,

and character finds beauty in imperfection,

my child, choose wisely:

one kind of rose will bring you many tears

while the other remains a delight forever

The Waterfall

the water falls perpendicular

churning a corner of the pool snow white

like the peak of a smoky green mountain

where it boils, mist is flung downstream

billowing and writhing

silver vapour clings in vain

to shafts of morning sunshine

piercing an ebbing autumnal canopy

and as the tendrils twist and swirl

rising and falling

they almost coalesce

into wraiths that must pass along the river

the longer I look, the more I see

the shadows of the trees on the sunlit veil

pure in motion, constantly white

beside, the bearded moss and curtains of green

the less eager rivulets

making family trees instead

and seven black fish

for whom the river is a lifetime

it seems we come into this world

like a waterfall

bringing noise, beauty and innocence

then the fortunate times

like pools of gentleness

that end abruptly

in bouncing rapids and rocks

when the way is not clear

but in flowing onwards

we reach one day

the great eternal sea

meeting ev'ry other soul

returning at last

to their blessed origin

and joyful eternity

A Season For Dancing

As dancers the seasons turn

autumn yielding to winter's embrace

with stately steps for glory

incandescent in falling

kissed by the sun,

everlasting father of the bridal feast,

He has given me over to a fierce grip,

to crowns of ice and mantles of snow,

yet in waters stilled and torrents veiled

melodies of reflection:

He has not deserted

nor rejected you

but prepared a place

for the tenderness of spring,

a season for dancing

and the laughter of children,

for royal feet and princely eyes,

sowing, I will lay me down

for grace to rise

pure as the blossom

in sweetness arriving

with blessing and honour,

praise and thanksgiving,

so winter pours out the wine of spring

to rest upon her sleeping lips:

awake and prepare

till summer comes leaping

and dance in the fields

where lovers go reaping

come burning sun

or lashing rain

our season of dancing

has come to remain

Snowflakes

the winter snow

dances on the air

like blessing upon blessing

making masterpieces

of man's imperfection

and nature's frugality

broken fences and worn-out streets

made elegant, sublime in beauty

while every barren tree displays

a measure of surpassing glory

not a flake falls to the ground today

apart from my Father's will

The Tree

soaking in the word of God

deepens the depth

and breadth of hidden roots,

intimacy with the spirit of God

grows the height and length

of sun-hungry limbs,

being filled and overflowing

with the love of God

makes the whole tree burst

and blossom with life,

delight yourself in these

and he will honour you

with masterful pruning

for seasons of outrageous fruitfulness

Magnet

draw me to yourself

like an exiled earth to the wintry sun

cast down and filed to iron dust

scattered to the east and west

shake all I am, take all you must

break and bind, as you know best

align me with your north and south

attract the true, repel the false

purify and test my heart

with the magnet of your love

Firework

Lord, make me a firework

brilliant and incandescent

heedless of self-preservation

intent upon ignition

as a self-consuming flame

overflowing with the truth of love

bursting with the love of truth

personified and displayed

there upon a shameful cross

the highest love in blood and tears

to open heaven's door for us

A Flower In The Wilderness

shaken by the wind

beneath the sun

in a most lonely place

exquisite and untouched

far from inhumanity

you raise your matchless face to heaven

and simply in being bring Him glory

where no feet have ever wandered

I heard this flower's song

'he is the one that sees me'

when all have turned away

abandoned here and waiting to die

I remain so: supremely precious

a treasure in my saviour's eye

A Song

Teach me how to sing in tune

a simple song of holiness

sung with deep humility

which always keeps its tempo

with heartbeats of forgiveness

the rhythm of His selfless love

with peace and joy in harmony

to fill the earth with freedom's cry

'come out of darkness into light

I am the way, the truth, the life

I rose to fill the universe

and hold the keys of paradise'

Coins In Heaven

I saw a coin in heaven

made of purest gold

like faith perfected

on one side, love was sealed

upon the other, obedience

since loveless service is slavery

and heedless love reaps sorrow

in barrenness and lack

when Truth himself looks today

at the mirror of my heart

let the joy of wisdom's gentle grace

be ever gazing back

on the second golden coin I saw

a loving father embrace his son

and a bride held by her groom

written about the circumference

was righteousness and holiness

for these two love each other

with flames of jealous fire

which time and space cannot consume

since faith in such eternal love

is every man's best endeavour

we seek the holy and righteous one

to know his peace and joy forever

on the third coin I saw

a fountain and a river

like the joy of generosity

rising free from greed's restraint

like the streams of heaven's purity

removing sin and every taint

which seeks to stem the gracious flow

of every blessing stored up for us

who walk by faith, the kingdom first

who taste and see, then quench our thirst

with God's own spirit, free for all

who listen well and obey his call

on the fourth heavenly coin I saw

an ancient gateway and its city

upon its width in royal script

profound in depth and surpassing beauty

were gratitude and peace

for all must enter Jerusalem

by giving thanks to God alone

to walk her streets without envy

enjoying all her pleasant ways

as strangers to the sons of rage

the perfect rest of our salvation

has exiled these to a distant nation

on the fifth coin I saw

a mountain and a mighty sword

around the rim was written

patience and truth

since patient love endures all

and triumphs over restless strife

while many prosper through deceit

self deceived by worldly lies

who builds his house on the sands of time

will suffer present and eternal loss

who stands forever on the rock of Christ

surrenders to the wisest choice

upon the sixth coin I saw

a silver cup and a city wall

the chalice filled to overbrimming

with the joy of forgiveness found in him

should we ever repent and let Christ in

to liberate our hearts from malice

guarding our souls from desolation

with self-control and wise discretion

the discipline of his faithful ones

is to pass this precious vessel on

forgiven as they have truly believed

costly to Him but freely received

on the seventh heavenly coin I saw

an open hearth and a candle flame

inscribed about its outer edge

encourage and revere

by drawing near to Christ in faith

to impart strength and comfort loss

in reverence we can worship him

who loving all endured the cross

and having ascended to the highest place

poured out his spirit of infinite grace

to open our eyes for truth's adoration

to shine with the light of His inspiration

on the eighth coin I saw

a nursing child and fertile valley

like the gentleness of godliness

the tender sweetness of wisdom's kiss

the rain of mercy on unbelief

a breath of love on the softest breeze

and the fruitfulness of humility

in bowing down to be lifted up

in sowing seed to yield a crop

he suffered death for prideful men

submitting in faith to a just command

to raise in love a number like sand

on the ninth coin I saw

a waterfall and a leaping stag

and flowing about its circle

selflessness and joy

ever in motion with purity

freely cascading, rejoicing to be

running in truth to our destiny

bouncing over the boastful rocks

churning a pool for drinking deep

filled with the Spirit to overflowing

to laugh and dance, to roar and leap

without shame on the arduous length

the joy of the Lord imparting His strength

on the tenth heavenly coin I saw

a golden crown and soaring eagle

and sealed upon its edge

honour and discernment

since learning to esteem each other

lets unity and blessings flow

from the gifted to the humble spirit

from heaven's heights to the ground below

we plough and sow with wisdom's seed

to gain a more discerning heart

to advance in love and in His sight

to join with eagles in their flight

on the eleventh coin I saw

a wedding ring and falling rain

upon its width in golden script

were faithfulness and compassion

through all the storms that life can fashion

an unbroken chain in every season

the choice of love when there's no reason

but faithlessness to tear apart

and the bitter curse of a hardened heart

heaven blesses the sister and brother

who abandon themselves to find in each other

Christ Jesus the healer, redeemer and lover

on the twelfth heavenly coin I saw

the rising sun and a blazing torch

like the graciousness of mercies new

the kindness of his ardent desire

undoing every work of evil

with the presence of his zeal

the burning of his holy fire

the promise of his Spirit's seal

in each of us who seek his glory

to play our part in the saviour's story

knowing him to reveal his name

the perfection of love I cannot contain

The Field

The kingdom of heaven

is like a snow-laden field

glistening in the morning sun

since all things are worshipping

when true to their truest nature

reflecting and revealing their maker

upon the boughs of a silver tree

the frosted flames of his majesty

Firework

The kingdom of heaven

is like a firework display

in which every explosion of glory

is better than the one before

in which every blaze of luminescence

and dazzling thunder-shower of beauty

grows ever more wonderful and astounding

"no eye has seen, or ear has heard

no mind has conceived

the things God has prepared

for those that love him"

Thistledown

The kingdom of heaven is like thistledown:

every blow suffered carries the seed of healing for another heart.

'And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God' Romans 8:28

Spring

The kingdom of heaven is like a tree at the dawn of spring:

just when everything seemed dead and hope was a memory,

the branches explode with pure white blossom and a riot of glory:

'the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. the flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the dove is heard in our land' Song of Songs 2:11

Children

The kingdom of heaven

is like a world turned upside down

where surrender to the love of Christ

brings victory in trials of life

where dying to selfish ambition

opens the door to abundant living

where bowing to truth and humility

raises me up in His prosperity

where secret giving, fasting and prayer

reap blessing from my Father's hand

hence only children with uncommon sense

may enter and possess this promised land

Bubbles

The kingdom of heaven is like a man making bubbles.

He puts his sticks into a bucket of soapy water then holds them up high,

so the wind can effortlessly create beautiful, shimmering works of art:

''not by might nor by power, but by my breath" Zechariah 4:6

Dance

The kingdom of heaven is a mysterious dance of love and power, character and gifts, words and actions, incarnation and demonstration of His grace.

Ballet

The kingdom of heaven is like a ballet where grace, truth, beauty, humility and strength are looking for partners to dance with.

Teardrops

love seeks in all to give Himself away

the glory of love revealing truth

man seeks in all the glory he can

unveiling the shame of the fallen self

worship is the union of two sovereign wills

like teardrops into His ocean

making the bitter sweet

the darkness into light

bringing good in the midst of evil

solace in the valley of sorrow

'blessed are those who mourn,

they shall be comforted'

Incomparable

this is my day

this is my battle

to bring you glory

I have no other

the past is concluded

the future purposed

according to your unfailing love

which leaves me the present

to give to you

my incomparable friend

'cast your anxiety upon him

for he cares for you'

The Battlefield

the one who enrages

has stolen your peace

the one who discourages

has robbed you of joy

the one who breeds envy

is the thief of gratitude

the one who lays a yoke of greed

feeds on your abundance

the one who causes you to lust

casts a shadow on your beauty

the one who steals your hope in Him

disarms you on the battlefield

the one who fills your heart with fear

strips you of your faith in love

the one who seals your heart with hate

has conquered you at last

but 'greater is the one inside of you

than he that is in the world'

Truth In Love

I found a garden

whose name is love

and within these walls

a rose of truth

if such a bloom

should be stolen forth

its fragrance can

but fade away

and the fair become as foul

or if intemperate hands

should lack respect

if complacent in time or skill

these thorns are made

for foolish blood

since all who seek the Father's will

must speak the truth within his love

Encompassed

To you, my father, I lift up my eyes

fill me with your breath

wash me with your water

burn me with your fire

be the rock beneath my feet

remind me of your patience

heal me with your gentleness

embarrass me by your humility

astound me with your kindness

touch me in your compassion

for these days are evil

and mine are few

this moment like gold

encompassed by you

Conquerors

in trouble, your love is my peace

in hardship, your love is my comfort

in persecution, your love is my blessing

in famine, your love is my abundance

in nakedness, your love is my clothing

in danger, your love is my refuge

in battle, your love is my stronghold

'in all these things we are more than conquerors

through him who loved us'

Fear

it is the root of much sorrow

the source of each lie

which feeds on our dreams

and truth will deny

it is the key to life's failure

at the door of the night

the best of us blinded

when we look to its light

it steals away blessing

and harvests regret

it is the fear of mankind

lest we forget:

be faithful in courage

and courageous in faith

Mount Nebo

the sun prepares the alchemy

it practised at the break of dawn

on barren mountains the shadows swell

patient men can tell

smaller now than its shade

this arching tree an instrument

spiny leaves like threadbare bells

the passing wind whispers

the memory of distant surf

from stony hills and salt rich bay

a cooler breeze, the day grows old

the holy and profane lands

are covered alike

in radiant gold

Via Lactea

the sun has set behind the mountains,

the day lingers and people watch

the purple reef spill

on the turquoise silk of the bay

like an open wound,

above, a crescent moon

promises to be full, perhaps enough

to wander in the desert with

the midnight sailor's friends,

the pharoah's envy,

the beggar's roof

now bright and clear

via lactea

wherever you send me

I hold a breath of your love

beneath this sea of stars

Ennerdale

Before the world awakens,

the trees are whispering, the rivers laugh

as Seven Sisters embrace above

to dance and sing with the Host of heaven

until the hour has come to pass

Orion is striding the fallen heights

the Plough has risen, he will not turn back

a crescent moon is smiling to be

a cradle of rest, a gentle plumbline

fixed upon the Morning Star

with silver to kiss a stirring lake

here I stand and here I wait.

There is a king

there is a king

whose name is love

to him I kneel

with all above

I rest in sleep

then I awaken

still in his hands

never forsaken

though friends be false

the world found wanting

with Christ alone

I scaled the mountain

here on the heights

I now survey

the paths I lost

along the way

but my hope

is still before me

to die and live

a son of glory

there is a love

all faults accepting

with arms of grace

all fear rejecting

there is a place

before His throne

where freedom reigns

and joy is known

in perfect peace

here I rest

forgiven all

forever blessed

Reflections

Just as the wintry air turns invisible breath into visible clouds,

so hard times let the Spirit of God reveal His glory to the world through acts of love in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Being conformed to the image of true love is like the sun setting on the river. Both the light of the world and his reflection converge with ever increasing glory until the two are one. Romans 8:29

Dancing is a marriage of music and motion,

painting is an engagement of perception and colour,

writing is a friendship of words and expression,

sculpting is seeing a flame in the ashes,

and poetry is learning to fly

To be with you and to be you with others. Abundant life John 10:10

Don't panic until it's time to panic. Then, think twice.

Love is intense: the past tense, the present tense and the future tense. 'I have loved you with an everlasting love' Jeremiah 31:3

It's better to value others according to all you can do for them, rather than for all they can do for you.

Book early to avoid disappointment. Meditate on a few verses in the morning.

Even in the most parched soil, find the seeds of gratitude, water them with patience, and peace and joy will bloom.

Allowing past wounds to determine present decisions is a sure path to future grief.

Wisdom without love is like words without music: it's always wise to love, but best to love wisely.

Life is serious. Life without joy is even more serious.

A closed door is a signpost to a more excellent opportunity elsewhere.

Fast from the past to give the present a future.

Defend me from my weaknesses, defend me from my strengths.

The truth will out, when the love is in.

Each day is like a newborn child, precious and full of of possibilities, trusting in a greater love.

The most dangerous men in the world are those that tell the truth.

They're also the most wanted in heaven.

A woman is a delight and luxury, like a fine wine. She also requires careful handling, storage, labelling and temperature control. Drink responsibly.

If I was a billionaire, would I have a different perspective on today? But what's inside is worth far more than everything that has been made. Colossians 1:27

Truth is like a well which gets deeper, the deeper you go. So is folly. Choose well.

Managing popularity is like building a sandcastle with a lollipop stick: time consuming, tiring and gone with the tide.

The Bride of Christ is like snowfall, each crystalline flake perfectly unique, carried together on the breath of the wind, resting as one upon the land, making the barren beautiful, both wild and gentle, elegant and powerful, always reflecting the purity and grace of her Beloved.

Fear brings to pass

the very things which

it seeks to to avoid

since fear is faith

in the enemy's

lies and distortions

place your faith in truth

which releases God's

capability

through prayer, hope and love

like Christ once obeyed:

"do not be afraid"

When I commune with you, it's like

a spark flashing beneath the sun

a tear drop falling into an ocean

a whisper in the midst of a hurricane

a candle flame dancing for a supernova

and a child speaking to his father

'you did not receive the spirit

of captivity to fear, but you have received

the spirit of adoption, for crying 'Abba', Father'

We're most vulnerable when we fail to perceive our own vulnerabilities. Wisdom advises many counselors, that is, healthy relationships built on trust, accountability, encouragement and grace. Proverbs 11:14

From the first breath outside the womb, to the very last breath on earth, all the ones in between are pure grace. Take a deep breath. Psalm 150:6

The one who orchestrates galaxies, dimensions and sparrows is willing and able to provide for every step of His will for your life. Matthew 10:31

The Song of Solomon reveals Christ as lover and judge, the book of Revelation reveals Him as judge and lover. The mysteries of love and judgement shine light upon one another. The books of scripture are like God taking selfies to reveal His face. Each post on His facebook shows Him in a new light. Always more to learn.

Everything changes when you occupy the higher ground through worship: bitter turns to sweet, problems become opportunities, frustration yields to anticipation, and the water of daily experience is transformed into the wine of abundant life, as one's perception is increasingly renewed towards the supernatural clarity of harmony with the designer of creation. John 10:10

Faith grows by overcoming the impossible,

hope blossoms in passing the impenetrable,

love ripens through releasing the unforgivable,

His freedom is flowing with joy uncontainable

His glory is reigning with peace unsurpassable

upon a throne of grace and truth

Faithful and true leadership imitates Christ's wise and servant-hearted headship of His Bride, the church: sacrificial, attentive, gentle, meek and humble. This is reflected at every level of loving authority: between husband and wife, parents and children, elders and fellowship, overseeing elder and leadership team. Apostolic governance beautifully expresses the submission of the glorious Bride to Christ, who is bringing all things into submission. Philippians 3:21

Love is being consumed to meet the needs of another, lust is consuming others to meet your own needs. 1 John 2:16

To avoid injury, bend knees on impact. Psalm 51 is a perfect prayer of repentance to break the chains of the past, wipe the slate clean for a healthy conscience and renew a joyful heart. Too many people carry burdens of fear, guilt, shame and regret, missing out on the fullness of life. Every source of spiritual, emotional, mental and physical captivity was defeated on the cross for our freedom to run unencumbered, wisely and purposefully.

What does success look like? Our deepest aspirations and unspoken assumptions concerning success influence every decision in life. In reality, true success can only be measured in the light of eternity and managed one day at a time. Philippians 3:10 is an Olympic torch of grace for success: the journey of knowing a person who is love personified, sharing the power of His life, experiencing His friendship in suffering and being transformed into His character. In essence, success is a dynamic and deepening relationship with Christ

Few things are more tragic than a prisoner who prefers his cell because the sun is too bright, and a captive who makes friends with his chains. 2 Corinthian 3:17

A heart of peace: receives by faith, breathes in hope, renews with joy, lives for love.

Insects love to breed and multiply in stagnant or shallow waters. In contrast, a healthy heart is both deeply at rest and continually flowing with life-giving streams of His spirit. John 7:37

The heart is like a walled garden, with seasons for ploughing, sowing, reaping and pruning. although the wall protects and nurtures, my responsibility is to be watchful, wise and active, since not every visitor means well or respects the pathways to the fruit of my labour. Proverbs 4:23

Faith begins, hope continues and love makes all things new. Revelation 21:5

Remembrance is the key to thanksgiving, the door to praise, the highway to rest, the gate to worship and the path of the first love which overcomes all things. Revelation 2:4

Blessed is the man who sees himself

through the flames of everlasting love

in the eyes of his Creator.

Blessed is the one who trusts

in the author of joy and all that is possible,

for him, nothing will be impossible.

Blessed is the man who dies to himself

and takes up his cross in the name of peace,

his testimony endures forever.

My eyes were made for seeing you,

my ears to hear your voice,

my nose to smell your fragrance,

my lips to speak your words,

my arms for your embrace,

my strength to seek your face,

my mind to think your thoughts,

my heart to meet with yours.

'taste and see that the Lord is good'

Psalm 34:8

if in doubt, worship

if in faith, worship,

if in despair, worship

if in hope, worship

if in hate, worship

if in love, worship

if in worship, worship

Meditations on WORSHIP:

i. Waiting Obtains the Riches, Strength, Hope and Intimacy of His Presence.

ii. Watching Overflows from Rest, Surrender, Humility, imparting Illumination and Power.

iii. Worship Overcomes Rejoicing Single-mindedly Honouring Him with Integrity and Passion.

The greatest power, the most abundant riches,

the most excellent wisdom, the most amazing strength,

the highest honour, the most magnificent glory

and the most wonderful blessing are nothing

compared with the love of God in Christ Jesus.

Love builds with wisdom,

hope rests on understanding,

faith dances with revelation,

wisdom embraces faith,

understanding imparts hope,

revelation strengthens love

What a difference a day can make

when you make a difference to someone's day.

'Love never fails' Corinthians 13:8

The people who cherish you for who you are, rather than how you meet their needs, are worth their weight in gold and hard to find

A word for PEACE:

Perfected for Eternity Abiding in Confident Expectation

A star is born when hydrogen is transformed into helium, a new creation, accompanied by light, heat, gamma wavelengths, violence and life on earth. You are a star, born again to radiate the light of compassion, the heat of kindness, the wavelength of humility, the spiritual violence of gentleness and a life of patience on earth.

helium is also lighter than air and always seeks to be closer to heaven. 'if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation' 2 Corinthians 5:17

There is a choice to make everyday, which no one can make for you or ever take away. Although people, oppression, prosperity and persecution can steal and hurt in many ways, nothing in all of creation can take away the most intimate choice of all: to worship

Faith is like money, only invisible and superior.

money can buy everything this world has to offer.

faith can obtain everything worth having.

inflation destroys the value of money.

pride destroys the value of faith.

'Has God not chosen the poor of this world

to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom

which He promised to those who love Him?'

James 2:5

Repentance is the gateway to joy,

it remains locked until the key 'humility' is found

on a golden ring called 'wisdom'.

Love carries this on a silver chain,

close to His heart, but freely given to all who ask.

on the other side, you will find peace.

'blessed are the poor in spirit,

theirs is the kingdom of heaven'

Every choice is an opportunity to demonstrate and grow in love, which is itself a tree of life, and obedience like its reflection on the river. Still waters produce a more perfect image. only the power of God can calm the waters of human spirit so that we might reflect the image of Christ through loving choices. 'if anyone loves me, he will keep my word' John 14:23

The hidden things are crucial, like a boat propeller: you can only see the evidence of it working. The motivations of the human heart are also below the waterline and the kingdom of heaven advances by focusing on the invisible and eternal.

The closer you are to God, the more some people will prefer to keep you at a distance: every sandcastle needs a moat to protect itself from unsettling truths. However, when the tide comes in, you're the only person left to cling to.

Life is a state of emergency

to be lived from a state of rest

ingratitude and complacency

conspire to steal each destiny

for the god of the second best

'I have come that they may have life,

and have it more abundantly'

There's a season for grief

and a time for joy,

but no-one holding on to the past

can embrace the future

or surrender with both hands

to receive blessing upon blessing

from the throne of grace

if you take your eyes from Christ

and fix them on your neighbour: envy comes

or on yourself: dissatisfaction follows

or on your circumstances: discouragement wins

or on the church: disillusionment grows

or on the devil: you make a path for fear

or on your strengths: pride conquers

or on your weaknesses: despair enters in

instead: "let us fix our eyes on Jesus" Hebrews 12:2

He fixes those that fix their gaze on Him

I am a wholly forgiven child of God,

an ambassador of heaven's rule,

a disciple of perfect grace,

a servant of the highest love,

a brother of the greatest glory,

a lover of the truth,

a soldier for compassion,

a priest to the broken,

a watchman for the dawn,

and a steward of His excellence

until He returns for his Beloved

Here I am to

believe like Abraham in faith

trust like Isaac in obedience

serve like Jacob in love

intercede like Moses in testing

worship like David in adversity

build like Solomon in wisdom

prophesy like Elijah in power

pour out like Mary much adoration

lead like Peter restored to grace

bear fruit like Paul from a throne of rest

know you like John, a beloved one

to lean on the king of the rising sun

The intellect is a lamp

in search of a light

the waves like emotions

where two armies fight

my will is a traitor

in need of a king

this tongue like a sword

this kiss for healing

Help me to be poor in spirit

and rich in your love,

to mourn with your sorrow

and delight in your joy,

to be meek with the world

and steadfast in truth,

to hunger and thirst

for more of you,

to show others the mercy

I seek from your throne,

to be pure in heart,

prepared to come home,

to release your peace

as a true son,

in the midst of the fire

be strength to hold on

The fruit of his wisdom

is humility and self-control

the fruit of his revelation

is gentleness and discretion

the fruit of his counsel

is goodness and faithfulness

the fruit of his power

is kindness and patience

the fruit of his knowledge

is joy and peace with hope surpassing

he teaches me how to fear the Lord

and delight in His love and compassion

Grant me the wisdom to desire your love

and the revelation to comprehend it

grant me the counsel to share your love

and the power to serve you in it

grant me the knowledge to increase in love

and the fear of you to remain within it

grant me to avoid forgetting

the omnipotence of God

by failing to ask for things

which are humanly impossible

First I knew a loving saviour

then a perfect, righteous king

a gentle teacher of wisdom's love

to servants in obedience

unveiling the beauty of holiness

and the joy that rises from His spring

the peace of truth like a mighty river

to strengthen hearts in the fight of faith

to build our hope on eternal life

and the glorious judge of all the earth

Part IV: Identity

From Sons to Stewards

'Sons dwell in the Word and Spirit,

Lovers worship in Spirit and Truth,

Ambassadors proclaim the truth of His peace,

Priests cleanse with the peace of His truth,

Disciples follow the wisdom of His holiness,

Kings rule with the grace of His wisdom,

Servants obey in the humility of His gentleness,

Watchmen speak with the authority of His holiness,

Brothers yield to the light of His glory,

Stewards walk diligently in faith, hope and love.'

These meditations consider 10 dimensions of Christian identity, exploring parallels with the Lord's Prayer and 10 Commandments.

1. A Son: beloved to love

When we enter into a new relationship with God through repentance, confession of faith and the power of the Holy Spirit in spiritual regeneration, the journey of Sonship has begun. Baptism in water is the next step. We have accepted a divine invitation to experience the abundant life of His friendship and fruitfulness. As sons and daughters of the Living God, we are called to enjoy the revelation of His love in faith and hope, freely giving as we have freely received: 'For by grace you have been saved, through faith, not through your own efforts, it is the gift of God,' Ephesians 2:9.

To receive the love of the Father is the inheritance of every believer, paid in full by the blood of Jesus Christ upon the cross: 'We love Him because He first loved us,' 1 John 4:19. Paul's letter to the Romans says: 'the love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us' Romans 5:5 and 'you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out: 'Abba, Father,' Romans 8:15.

This is the same love with which the Father affirmed Jesus at his baptism: 'this is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,' Matthew 3:17. On the night of His betrayal, Jesus prayed to the Father: 'I have made known to them your name, and will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them, and I in them,' John 17:26. The Father's desire to bring us into union with Himself is found at the beginning of John's gospel: 'to as many as received Him, He gave to them the right to become children of God, to those believing in His name' John 1:12.

The journey of Sonship begins at the cross and returns daily in remembrance of His unconditional love, with sincere repentance to offer ourselves as living sacrifices: 'I beseech you therefore, brothers, through the mercies of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your reasonable service.' Romans 12:1

The Lord's Prayer begins with 'Our Father', a declaration, affirmation and appropriation of the riches our inheritance in the household of God. In the Old Testament, the first commandment 'You shall have no other gods before me' Deuteronomy 5:7 also emphasises the exclusivity and primacy our relationship with the Father.

A prayer of Sonship is found in Ephesians 3:14: 'I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He may give to you according to the riches of His glory, by His power to become strong through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, being rooted and established in love, that you may be able to comprehend with all the saints the width, depth, length and height: to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.'

The glory of receiving this love is the instruction and empowerment to reveal the love of the Father to a world groaning under the darkness of sin, oppression, sickness, poverty and death, until the return of the Messiah: the Great Commission Matthew 28:18. Sonship is a pilgrimage of growing in faith, hope and love Corinthians 13:13, uniting ourselves with these three purposes of God, which are intricately woven together to perform the will of God: 'a threefold cord is not quickly broken,' Ecclesiastes 4:12.

The fruit of the Holy Spirit Galatians 5:22 expressed by sons is the very first: love - 'God is love' 1 John 4:6. Sonship is a pathway into an eternity of love, beginning with an encounter with the risen Jesus: 'I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no one comes to the Father except through me,' John 14:6.

Sonship in practice

From the ministry of Jesus, we can discern that the essence of walking as a son is to:

1. 'look up'

2. 'dwell'

3. 'reveal'

1.'look up'

The only miracle to appear in all four gospels is the feeding of the five thousand. This miracle begins with Jesus looking up to heaven Mark 6:41, the home of our Father and source of all supply and provision for our every need. As sons and daughters, our first priority is to look up. The pursuit of knowing, perceiving and relating to God rests upon this steadfast gaze: 'this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent,' John 17:3.

2.'dwell'

In this miracle, the Lord Jesus said to the disciples 'make the people them sit down,' Luke 6:10. Sitting down at His feet is a picture of abiding, described in Psalm 91, as we enter the secret place of communion with God through immersion in the Word and Spirit of God, worshiping in 'Spirit and truth' John 4:25. Dwelling yields abundance: 'I am the vine, you are the branches: the one remaining in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit – apart from me you can do nothing,' John 15:4.

3.'reveal'

Sons reveal the everlasting agreement or covenant which has been established by the blood of Jesus: a covenant with the grace of the Lord Jesus, the Father's love, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit 2 Corinthians 13:14. This relationship is initiated, sustained, expressed and fulfilled through the unmerited favour of our heavenly Father; a covenant of grace. As we receive and walk according to this grace, so we also reveal this covenant through a life which reflects the Father's compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience Colossians 3:12.

Dwelling in the Word & the Spirit

Sons and daughters dwell in both the Word of God and in the Spirit of God. The Word and Spirit are like eagles' wings. With the benefit of two strong, fully-grown and well-maintained wings, we can be free to soar to great heights, with boldness, confidence and victory.

The Threefold Key of Faith, Hope & Love

Sons and daughters of the Living God are called to grow in the knowledge of God 2 Peter 3:18, by divine revelation in His presence and through His grace, so as to display the revelation of His love to all of creation. In practice, we need to lay hold of the 'threefold key' of faith, hope and love. This pattern follows the divine order of the Trinity: the Father's heart initiates or conceives a plan, which the Son declares and the Holy Spirit performs: we are co-labourers with Him 1 Corinthians 3:9 in receiving, declaring and demonstrating the revelation of the Kingdom of Heaven upon the earth.

1. Meditation in faith gives birth to revelation.

Meditate on scripture in faith until revelation is birthed in your spirit. This enables us to lay hold of spiritual truths and experience the reality of God's promises, such as provision, protection and guidance. Psalm 1 describes a Son who meditates day and night on the Word of God, like a tree planted by streams of water, who bears much fruit and prospers in spirit, soul and body. Joshua 1:8 also describes this path of prosperity. Guidance on discerning true revelation from the false is found in the eightfold test of James 3:17, with genuine revelation always being in alignment with the principles of love, compassion and holiness found in the Word of God. Testing revelation determines whether a dream or vision is consistent with the fruit of faith, hope & love.

2. Declaration in hope expresses the revelation of life.

Declare the revelation in hope to express the revelation of Jesus Christ in this reality. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue; the spoken word has tremendous power to heal or harm. Persevering and faithful prayers are effective Romans 12:12; in Luke 18:1, Jesus encourages us to 'keep on praying and not give up.'

3. Walking in love releases the agenda of heaven on earth.

Walking in love arises from continually abiding in His presence, yielding to His grace, rest and wisdom. The government of light over darkness is released by our words and actions, in prayer and worship, in salvation, healing, deliverance, operating spiritual gifts and manifesting the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Knowing Him

Meditating on and declaring the truth of God's nature helps us to express the reality of who we are as Sons and Daughters in Christ Jesus.

Following are 16 declarations based on the names of God within the Old Testament, which are also our inheritance through the covenant of Grace initiated by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ: that is, the divine guarantees which we enjoy through our faith and patience in the Son of God, so as to inherit the promises Hebrew 6:12.

1. Declaration: 'I am loved'

'I have loved you with an everlasting love,' Jeremiah 31:3

'I will never leave you or forsake you,' Hebrews 13:5

Yahweh - God who was, and is, and will always be Genesis 2:4

2. Declaration: 'I am forgiven'

'It is paid in full,' John 19:30

Yahweh Tsidkenu - God of righteousness Jeremiah 23:6

3. Declaration: 'I am accepted'

'I am the good shepherd,' John 10:14

Yahweh Roi - God the shepherd Psalm 23:1

4. Declaration: 'I am significant'

'I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last,' Revelation 1:8

'Christ in you, the hope of glory' Colossians 1:27

Elyon - God Most High Genesis 14:18

5. Declaration: 'I am healed'

'I am the God who heals you,' Exodus 15:26

Yahweh Rapha - God who heals

6. Declaration: 'I have overcome'

'everyone born of God overcomes the world, and this is the victory which overcomes the world: our faith...believing that Jesus is the Son of God,' 1 John 5:4

Yahweh Nissi - God is my banner/victory Exodus 17:15

7. Declaration: 'I am holy'

'Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved,' Colossians 3:12

Yahweh M'qdesh - God who sanctifies me Exodus 31:13

8. Declaration: 'I am able'

'I can do all things in Christ who empowers me,' Philippians 4:13

Yahweh Sabaoth - God of heavenly armies 1 Samuel 1:3

9. Declaration: 'I will not be afraid'

'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be unsettled or fearful,' John 14:27

Yahweh Shalom - God of peace Judges 6:24

10. Declaration: 'I am provided for'

'My God will meet your every need to riches in glory in Christ Jesus,' Philippian 4:19

Yahweh Jireh - God who provides Genesis 22:14

11. Declaration: 'Nothing is impossible'

'For man it is impossible, but for God it is possible: all things are possible for Him,' Mark 10:27

Elohim - Creator God Genesis 1:1

12. Declaration: 'I have a purpose'

'But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us,' 2 Corinthians 4:7

Yahweh Shamma - God is present Ezekiel 38:45

13. Declaration: 'I am watched over'

'He who keeps you shall not sleep or slumber,' Psalm 121:4

El Roi - God who sees me Genesis 16:13

14. Declaration: 'His grace is sufficient for me'

'God is able to make all grace abound towards you, so that in everything and all times, you will have all sufficiency to abound in every good work,' 2 Corinthians 9:8

'My grace is sufficient for you,' 2 Corinthians 12:9

El Shaddai - Almighty God Genesis 17:1

15. Declaration: 'I have a future'

'I know the purposes which I am planning for you, says the Lord, purposes for peace and not evil: to give you a future and a hope,' Jeremiah 29:11

El Olam - Everlasting God Genesis 21:33

16. Declaration: 'I am secure'

'The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord cause His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you, the Lord lift up his face to you and give you peace,' Numbers 6:25-26

Adonai - Lord Genesis 18:31

2. An Ambassador: empowered to make peace

The unconditional love of the Father is accompanied by the power or authority to represent His kingdom in this world. In the parable of the Prodigal Son Luke 15, for example, we see that Sonship entails a new identity, vocation and the authority of heaven, symbolised by the robe, sandals and ring bestowed upon him.

Each ambassador has a unique commission to play their part the advance of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus tells us: 'All authority has been given to me in heaven and upon earth: go, then, and make disciples of all nations' Matthew 28:18-19. This authority is our inheritance as sons and daughters, increasingly manifest as we walk in intimate communion with the Lord. This relationship and our ambassadorship flow from unity with God and each other, as Jesus prays 'that all may be one, as you, Father, are in me, and I in you; that they may be one in us, that the world may believe that you sent me,' John 17:21.

The second part of the Lord's Prayer is: 'in heaven'. God's ambassadors learn to walk in the light of a revelation concerning their elevated position in Christ, 'for our citizenship is in heaven,' Philippians 3:20. Paul's letter to the Ephesians explains: 'God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ: by grace you are saved and raised up and seated together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,' Ephesians 2:4-6. Colossians 3:1 elaborates: 'If then you were raised with Christ, seek the things above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God'.

The second commandment also focusses on our relationship with the unseen, spiritual realms, expressed through worship and obedience: 'You shall not make for yourself a carved image, any likeness of anything in the heavens above, or in the earth beneath, or in the waters under the earth - you shall not bow down to them nor serve them.' Ambassadorship matures as we continue to divorce ourselves from the habits, attitudes and opinions which hinder our marriage to the King of Heaven, fostering a passion for holiness consistent with the revelation that 'he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit' 1 Corinthians 6:17; 'having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all that defiles spirit and flesh, perfecting holiness in the fear of God,' 2 Corinthians 7:1.

Ambassadors in practice

From the ministry of Paul, we can discern the mission of an ambassador is to:

1. 'proclaim'

2. 'represent'

3. 'make peace'

Ambassadors are empowered to (1) proclaim, (2) represent and (3) assert the influence of their sovereign. As 2 Corinthians 5:20 summarises: 'we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were (1) imploring through us: we appeal to you (2) on Christ's behalf, (3) be reconciled to God.' We are peacemakers with a 'ministry of reconciliation' (verse 18).

1. 'proclaim'

We have the good news, the only message of hope for a dying world, and the privilege to share the life, love and freedom of walking in the joy of God's presence and purposes. Each of us has a duty to speak with passion, humility, gentleness and respect: 'proclaim the Word: be ready in and out of season, convince, warn and encourage with all patience and teaching,' 2 Timothy 4:2. As ambassadors, we lift up Jesus and are doors through which the world can encounter the love of God. 'Lift up your heads, O you gates! Be lifted up, O everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in,' Psalm 24:9.

2. 'represent'

Ambassadors are empowered by the Holy Spirit to represent Jesus Christ through their pattern of life, speech, attitudes and conduct: 'be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect,' Matthew 5:48. Godly leaders seek excellence of character, through the grace of God, so as to be above reproach: 'faithful in marriage, level-headed, disciplined, modest, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, a brawler or greedy, but gentle and not a lover of money, with well managed affairs,' 1 Timothy 3:2.

3. 'make peace'

'Blessed are the peacemakers, because they shall be called sons of God,' Matthew 5:9. Ambassadors carry the authority of heaven to administrate the supernatural peace and wholeness imparted by the love and presence of God: 'whatever house you enter, first say: peace to this house,' Luke 10:5.

CHAPTER 3 – A Disciple: growing in the wisdom of holiness

Maturing in the love and power of God also requires growth in His eternal wisdom and holiness. We are called to build our lives with 'gold, silver, precious stones' 1 Corinthians 3:12 which represent trusting in the wisdom, understanding and revelation of Jesus Christ. In the book of Proverbs, we learn that: 'wisdom is the primary thing, therefore get wisdom, and with your getting: get understanding,' Proverbs 4:7. Wisdom is promised in abundance to all who ask James 1:5. Isaiah 11:1 is a helpful focus for prayer to ask for deeper experience of the seven spirits of God: 'the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord'.

Another key prayer is found in Paul's letter to the Ephesians: 'that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened...' Ephesians 1:17-18. I recommend personalising this scripture, alongside Ephesians 3:14 as a daily petition, for eg 'Father of my Lord Jesus, grant me the spirit of wisdom...' Asking is how we receive and deepen our experience of God's nature, purposes and power – the essence of the 'Name' or 'Glory' of God. He is the origin, empowerment and destination of our thanksgiving, praise and worship.

The third part of the Lord's Prayer is 'Let your Name be sanctified', an expression of worship. Since worship seeks to behold God, transforming us as we encounter Him, the choice to worship is also a decision to increase in all His attributes, including wisdom. This letter also tells us 'that those having trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory,' Ephesians 1:12. So, the pursuit of wisdom leads to worship, as the Holy Spirit reveals the majesty and glory of our creator, reflected in His creation.

The third commandment is 'You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain' Deuteronomy 5:11. This commandment is an instruction to be a faithful witness of who the Father truly is: 'gracious, compassionate, slow to anger and full of mercy,' Psalm 103:8. Wisdom promises security, peace and prosperity Proverbs 8:17-18 as the Holy Spirit guides us on the path of life which glorifies God, through awe and reverence of Him: 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, fools despise wisdom and instruction' Proverbs 1:7.

As disciples, we express the life of Christ, increasing in the knowledge of Him, becoming like Him: 'with all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control patience, to patience godliness, to godliness brotherly love, and to brotherly love, agape-love,' 2 Peter 1:5; 'imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ,' 1 Corinthians 11:1.

Disciples in practice

The key to wisdom is the cross of Christ, applying the work of the cross to our lives in order to obtain the inheritance purchased by the blood of Jesus. The heart of discipleship is described by Jesus in Luke 9:23: 'if anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself and daily take up his cross and follow me'.

1. 'deny'

2. 'take up'

3. 'follow'

1. 'deny'

The blood of Jesus has freed us from the penalty and power of sin, so we can count ourselves 'dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord,' Romans 6:11. By faith, we can meditate on and proclaim the word of truth over our lives, claiming victory over three key battlegrounds 1 John 2:16: 'the lust of the flesh', 'the lust of the eyes' and 'the pride of life'; that is, the desires our old, fallen nature, the selfish desire for the power, influence and riches of this world, and trusting in our own status and abilities apart from the Father's will. These are the same three temptations which Jesus demonstrated how to overcome, in proclaiming the truth of the Word of God, when fasting in the wilderness Matthew 4:11.

2. 'take up daily'

Dying with Christ to those ways which hinder the love of God, allows us to walk in resurrection power in the areas of His ministry to which each of us has been uniquely called to participate: 'to know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His suffering, being conformed to His death,' Philippians 3:10. The cross is also the place of repentance for daily cleansing, symbolised by Jesus washing His disciples feet at the Last Supper John 13:14: 'if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all our sins...if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, that He may forgive us the sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness,' 1 John 7-9.

3. 'follow'

Following means laying hold of the present day, with gratitude for every blessing and trial on the path to mature Sonship: 'forgetting the things past and stretching forward to the things ahead, pressing on for the finishing line, the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus,' Philippians 3:13-14. Jesus describes this progression from death to life in John 12:24: 'unless the grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.'

As disciples, we 'walk by faith, not by sight' 2 Corinthian 5:7 \- which means that our inward gaze is fixed 'not on the things which are visible, but on the things which are unseen: for the things which are visible are passing, but the unseen things are eternal,' 2 Corinthians 4:18. Much of our following is a secret life for an audience of One. Matthew 6:1-18 describes three secret foundations of discipleship to build upon: giving, prayer and fasting. These are primary keys for advancing in discipleship, releasing abundance, revelation and breakthrough.

4. A Servant: resting in humility

His love, power and wisdom rest upon a foundation of humility which accompanies service in the Kingdom of Heaven. 'The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many' Matthew 20:28. Grace, the empowerment to perform His perfect, pleasing and acceptable will, is given to the humble Proverbs 3:34. There is an open invitation for us to come boldly to the throne of grace in prayer, to obtain mercy and grace for our time of need Hebrews 4:16.

The journey of humility is learning to trust the Lord with all my heart, and not lean on my own understanding Proverbs 3:5. This pathway lays aside every other agenda in order to walk in intimate relationship with the Father. John 5:19 reveals that Jesus did nothing but that which he perceived the Father to be doing: 'the Son is able to do nothing from himself, only what he may see the Father doing: whatever the Father does, the Son likewise does these things.'

Servants of God engage in lives of prayer, symbolised in scripture as ploughing, which may involve contending for breakthrough in seasons of perseverance, patience and diligence. These challenging 'wilderness' seasons are part of the refining process for consecrated vessels being prepared by the Lord: 'in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay: some for honour and some for dishonour. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work,' 2 Timothy 2:20.

The fourth part of the Lord's Prayer is 'Let Your Kingdom Come'. The Kingdom of Heaven 'suffers violence, and the violent lay hold of it' Matthew 11:12. However, this violence is not physical but spiritual. This spiritual violence arises out of a place of rest and holiness, in obedience to God's word which is always perfectly aligned with the provision of His strength and power: 'not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit says the God of Hosts,' Zechariah 4:6. This kingdom teaches us to imitate the wholehearted trust of children in Matthew 18:3 and those who desire to be pre-eminent must be the servant of all Mark 9:44. Humility enters into the joy and fullness of a relationship with God: 'blessed/happy are the poor in spirit, theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven,' Matthew 5:3.

The fourth commandment concerns keeping the Sabbath day of rest: 'the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work' Deuteronomy 5:14. Hebrews 4:11 instructs us to diligently enter into spiritual rest from our own independent purposes in order to advance His kingdom. This is where we 'seek first the kingdom and His righteousness,' Matthew 6:33.

Servants in practice

There are keys to walking as a servant of God within the invitation of Jesus to enter His rest in Matthew 11:28-30: 'Come to Me, all who labour and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest: take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.'

1. 'Come to Me'

2. 'take My yoke'

3. 'I am gentle and humble'

1. 'Come to Me'

Servants learn the blessing of obedience to the Master's voice, listening attentively, learning to recognise His wisdom and guidance. Coming into His presence through prayer and worship is the best way to begin our daily labours, bringing perspective and strength to face its challenges. 'All these blessings shall come upon and overtake you, if you listen to the voice of the Lord your God,' Deuteronomy 28:2.

2. 'take My yoke'

Our Lord is perfectly loving, just and kind who desires our willing cooperation to fulfil His good purposes. The yoke is a picture of harnessing two oxen together, to share the burden. 1 Peter 5:7 advises: 'cast all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.'

3. 'I am gentle and humble'

A meek and humble Lord delights in servants who reflect His nature. Therefore, truly godly leaders are servant-hearted and willing to take the lowest place, gracious in yielding to authority, correction and teachable.

5. A Brother or Sister: yielding to glory

A brother or sister of Christ is 'conformed to the image of His Son, for Him to be the firstborn among many brothers,' Romans 8:29. Paul reminds us that, in his journey of self-sacrifice: 'I count all things to be loss compared to the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them to be refuse that I may gain Christ, and be found in Him,' Philippians 3:8.

Jesus explains that conformity to His image involves surrendering to the Father's desire: 'Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother,' Matthew 12:50. The will of God is described by Paul: 'that you may walk worthily of the Lord, pleasing in all, bearing fruit in every good work and maturing in the knowledge of God: empowered with all power, according to the power of His glory, for all patience and perseverance with joy,' Colossians 1:10. The process of refinement of our will, like the grounding of finely grained flour, comes through continual submission to the Father: 'do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God,' Romans 12:2.

The will of God bears the fruit of the work of God: "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent,' John 6:29. This work of believing, walking by faith not sight, is our response to the revelation of His will, which is transformative as we co-labour with the Holy Spirit. We fix our gaze on Jesus in worship, the author and perfecter of our faith Hebrews 12:2, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, and are being 'transformed into the same image from glory to glory' 2 Corinthians 3:18. Walking in the will of God cultivates the spiritual fruit of self-control so essential for unity: 'be sober, calm and clear-minded in all,' 2 Timothy 4:5.

The fifth part of the Lord's Prayer is 'Let your will be done', which echoes His submission to the cross in the Garden of Gethsemane. Surrender is often costly but the rewards are glorious: 'for our light affliction is working for us, moment by moment, a surpassing eternal weight of glory' 2 Corinthians 4:17.

The fifth commandment is 'Honour your father and mother'. In one sense, this can be interpreted as honouring the Holy Spirit, as born again believers seeking the Father's kingdom. Every good parent seeks to teach and train their children, and takes satisfaction and delight in their progress. Yielding to the will of God in obedience, trust and humility reveals the glory of God and our family likeness. The genius of honour is that strengthens unity and creates a path to receive and multiply blessings.

Brothers & Sisters in practice

Brothers yield to the will of God which, in turn, requires the power of God for its performance: 'but wait in the city of Jerusalem until you are clothed with power from on High,' Luke 24:29. When the Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost, the believers were in one place and 'with one mind,' Acts 2:2. Brothers seek unity with the will of God and each other, which enjoys the promise of God's blessing: 'How good and pleasant it is when brother live in unity...there God commanded the blessing,' Psalm 133.

From the book of Acts, we can see that keys to walking as brothers and sisters in community involves meeting together regularly, encouraging one another to continue 'steadfastly in the Apostle's teachings, in the fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers,' Acts 2:42. Our corporate life of love, worship, freedom and unity has a powerful impact on and witness to the world.

6. A Lover: drinking from the well of joy

Pursuing Christ unveils a realm of intimacy, a pathway of life, abundance and joy through seasons of trial and testing. As lovers of God, we enjoy the friendship of the Father, Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ 'who for the joy set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God' Hebrews 12:2. This is a communion of Spirit to spirit, God and child, which deepens through abiding in His presence and revelation through worship and the Word, as well as steadfast pursuit through the seasons of blessing and trial accompanying a pilgrimage of faith. In all things, 'the joy of the Lord is our strength' Nehemiah 8:10.

Lovers are consumed by worship, seeking a life 'on earth as it is in heaven'. This is a worship which unites humility, purity and holiness: 'you shall make an incense, a compound according to the art of the perfumer, salted, pure and holy,' Exodus 30:25. Worship which pleases the Father arises from a humble spirit with a pure heart of love, wholly dedicated to the beauty of His holiness. To be a lover is to grow in dependence on the love of God, limping like Jacob on his staff, having encountered God and wrestled all night on the bank of the Jordan: 'I saw God face to face, and my life is preserved,' Genesis 32:30.

The Song of Solomon, often considered the Holy of Holies of the Old Testament, leads us on a journey into discovering the gentle, persistent and passionate love of Jesus Christ, a relationship which is tested and matures over the verses until she emerges from the wilderness leaning on her beloved with a new song: 'place me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is as strong as death, jealousy as cruel as Sheol; its flames are flames of fire, a flame of God,' Song of Solomon 8:6.

The sixth part of the Lord's Prayer is 'On earth as it is in heaven'. We are called to bring the life of heaven into earth through worship of God and love of our neighbours. We are promised that Jesus will return for His bride, the people of God, and that this return will herald an age of God's presence dwelling among His people: 'the knowledge of the glory of God will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea,' Habbakuk 2:14. The intimate communion of lovers releases the strength and authority of heaven in the here and now: 'Who is she who looks down as the dawn, beautiful as the moon, clear as the sun, awesome as an army with banners?' Song of Solomon 6:10.

The sixth commandment is 'Do not murder'. Death is the negation of a life that love creates. The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5 elaborates that anger is as murder, which grieves the Holy Spirit and quenches the fountain of His joy within us. Wise lovers do not let the sun set on an argument Ephesian 4:26.

Lovers in practice

King David offers keys to being a lover in Psalm 27:4 'one thing I have asked from the Lord, this will I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to see the delightfulness of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.' Five signposts in this verse are:

1. Consecration 2. Worship 3. Heavenly-minded 4. Adoration 5. Conversation

1. Consecration

Lovers desire 'one thing', to enjoy the presence of one another: 'let me see your form, let me hear your voice,' Song of Solomon 2:14.

2. Worship

Lovers seek to praise and worship their beloved: 'this will I seek'. The journey of worship takes us into the heart of God – 'enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise,' Psalm 100:4.

3. Heavenly-minded

To dwell as sons and daughters 'in the house of the Lord all the days of my life' leads us to seek His presence daily as 'citizens of heaven' Philippians 3:20 and to set our minds 'on things above, not things on earth,' Colossians 3:2.

4. Adoration

Adoration gazes on the 'the delightfulness of the Lord' and overflows from encountering the beauty and grace of His touch. 'Whatever is true, honourable, just, pure, lovely, of good report, if any virtue or worthy of praise, consider these things,' Philippians 4:8.

5. Conversation

Lovers delight in revealing themselves to one another, sharing dreams and desires, the deepest secrets and truths: 'to inquire in His temple.' This relationship is familiar and respectful, loving and reverent, honest and honouring.

7. A Priest: cleansing with the word of life

A priest draws near to God and brings freedom and cleansing to the chains of sin, sickness and oppression in the world. In the Old Covenant, priests would meet with God on the people's behalf and administer the laws and rituals of the temple. In the New Covenant, the people of God are a 'royal priesthood' 1 Peter 2:9 which means our privilege is to have Jesus Christ as our High Priest Hebrews 8:1 and make our prayers and petitions known directly to Him, with no intermediary.

The Word of God is often represented as water in scripture: 'husbands love your wives even as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water in the word, that He might present her to Himself as the glorious church, with no spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and without blemish,' Ephesians 5:25. Jesus prayed to the Father for His disciples: 'Sanctify them in Your truth, Your word is truth' John 17:17. Old Testament priest were responsible for teaching the children of Israel. Psalm 51 is a model prayer for repentance and cleansing. As priests, we minister the water of life to the thirsty and weary: 'He who believes in me, as the scripture has said, out of his inner man will flow rivers of living water,' John 7:38.

The seventh part of the Lord's Prayer is 'Give us today our daily bread'. As priests, we have access and boldness to approach our Father with specific needs in freedom and with confident expectation: 'be anxious about nothing, but in everything by prayer and by petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God,' Philippians 4:6.

The seventh commandment is 'Do not commit adultery'. Priest guard the holiness of their marriage or union with Christ. Proverbs 5:15 advises to keep our fountains pure. Idolatry is often characterised as spiritual adultery in scripture and reflects the important of pursuing purity in our walk and communion with the Father, Son & Holy Spirit.

Priests in practice

A salvation prayer

'Heavenly Father, I come before you in the name of Jesus Christ. I acknowledge that I am a sinner and I am sorry for the sins I have committed. (Name anything that comes to mind). I ask for your forgiveness for all my sins.

Father, I believe that your Son Jesus Christ shed His blood on the cross and died for my sins, and I now choose to turn from all of them. Your Word says that if I confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, I shall be saved.

I confess Jesus Christ is my Saviour and Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. Thank you, Lord Jesus for dying for me, cleansing me and granting me the gift of everlasting life. Come Holy Spirit, fill me and lead me into abundant life. Amen.'

A meditation on love

1 Corinthians 13 contains 16 dimensions of love to reflect on over the course of a day.

1. 6 am: Patience/'patient'

2. 7 am: Kindness/'kind'

3. 8 am: Gratitude/'does not envy'

4. 9 am: Adoration/'does not boast'

5. 10 am: Humility/'is not proud'

6. 11 am: Honour/'is not rude'

7. Noon: Sacrificial/'not self-seeking'

8. 1 pm: Self-control/'not easily angered'

9. 2 pm: Forgiveness/'keeps no record of evil'

10. 3 pm: Repentance/'does not delight in evil'

11. 4 pm: Rejoicing/'rejoices in the truth'

12. 5 pm: Protection/'covers'

13. 6 pm: Trust/'always trusts'

14. 7 pm: Hope/'always hopes'

15. 8 pm: Endurance/'always endures'

16. 9 pm: Overcoming/'love never fails'

8. A King: a warrior of love

In the Book of Revelation, John relates that the Lord Jesus 'has made us kings and priests to His God and Father,' Revelation 1:6, and 'He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: King of Kings and Lord of Lords,' Revelation 19:16. The journey of kingship is learning to advance the Kingdom of Heaven in the authority of love, leaning on the grace of God in truth and expanding justice through His wisdom: 'loving-kindness and truth preserve the king, and by loving-kindness he upholds his throne,' Proverbs 20:28. Kings represent the goodness of the king of kings: 'the Lord is good, His mercy everlasting.' Psalm 100:5

Kings are warriors who exercise authority. Spiritual warfare, described in Ephesians 6, rests on praying in the Spirit and wielding the Word of God: 'stand, therefore, having girded your waist with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, having sandled your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, having taken up the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one, and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: through all prayer and petition, always in the Spirit, being watchful with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,' Ephesians 6:14-17.

Kingship serves the world in the authority of the power of love, to 'heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons: freely you have received, freely give.' Matthew 10:8. Psalm 110 urges us: 'rule in the midst of your enemies,' and Psalm 23: 'You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil, my cup runs over.' These reflect the truth that each of us possesses the authority to both to conquer and abound, in submission to His will, because of the Lord's victory on the cross.

Another privilege and duty of kings was to administer justice: 'open your mouth for the voiceless, in the cause of the fatherless. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the poor and needy,' Proverbs 31:6. In Luke 4:18, Jesus sets out the agenda for His kingdom: 'the Spirit of the Lord in on Me, therefore He has anointed Me to preach the good news to the poor, He has sent Me to heal the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.'

The eighth part of the Lord's Prayer is 'Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors'. The primary weapon of spiritual warfare is prayer, and unforgiveness is the main obstacle identified in scripture which hinders friendship with God and answered prayer Matthew 5:23. Forgiveness is also a key which releases abundance and blessing. The eighth commandment is 'Do not steal'. Theft is a clear negation of the abundant grace and generous love of God.

Kings in practice

The journey of King David, a man 'after God's own heart' 1 Samuel 13:14, illuminates the path towards the fullness of kingship – a life spent on the battlefield as a hero, outcast and king.

David's journey 1 Samuel 16-31 was first one of encountering the living God as a shepherd, followed by 'apprenticeship' to King Saul and royal persecution, learning to surrender all and trust the Lord. This journey of yielding the dominion or Lordship of our lives to Jesus Christ precedes the authority of kingship within our assigned areas or 'mountains' of influence. David's seasons of growing in the Lordship of Christ, included pursuit by his enemies all over the land of Israel. Similarly, we mature in familiarity with the land of our hearts, our characters and gifts, bringing them into submission to the will of God, through the testing, blessing, betrayal and manifold trials of life.

Saul's death was a turning point on David's path to kingship. Similarly, we also practice dying to the old self to follow Christ the servant-king. Galatians 2:20: 'I have been crucified with Christ, I live, but no longer I, but Christ lives in me; the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God: who loved me and gave Himself for me.'

1 Samuel 16:18 describes seven qualities of kingship:

1. 'a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite': literally, a child of grace (Jesse means 'gift'), a man with a revelation of the grace of God Romans 8.

2. 'who knows how to play the harp': a worshipper with skilful hands in vocation Psalms & Proverbs.

3. 'a mighty warrior': a courageous man Joshua 1.

4. 'a man of battle': a man of prayer Psalms.

5. 'skilful in speech': to be wise in words Proverbs.

6. 'an attractive man': conformed to the image of Christ in holiness 1st and 2nd Corinthians.

7. 'the Lord is with him': an empowered and diligent steward of the presence of God Acts 1.

Healing & Deliverance

There are many example of healing and deliverance in scripture: by the Anointing/Presence of God, by the Word and by Prayer. Waiting is key to receiving wisdom, understanding and revelation concerning how to minister, following the example of Jesus Christ described in John 5:19.

Healing and deliverance should be always be ministered in love and obedience to the revealed will of the Holy Spirit in any given context. This helps us to avoid the scenario described in Matthew 7:22-23 – 'depart from me, I never knew you, workers of lawlessness.' Being meaningfully connected with and accountable to an encouraging family of faith is essential.

Healing and deliverance is administered in three ways, by the Kingdom within, upon or alongside us: 1) by the working of Christ permanently within us 2) by the anointing of Christ resting upon us for a specific purpose 3) by angels commissioned to fulfil His assignments alongside us.

By Anointing/Presence

1. Gospel Signs

2. Laying On of Hands

3. His Sovereign Presence

4. His Delegated Presence

By the Word

5. Word of Command

6. Word of Knowledge

7. Word of Promise

8. Healing Word

By Prayer

9. Prayer/Petition of Faith

10. Intercession

11. Prayer & Fasting

12. Prayer & Action

By Anointing/Presence

1. Gospel Signs

Preaching the Gospel is accompanied by both 'spontaneous' miracles according to the sovereign grace and presence of God as well as signs which validate the truth of the message which the worker has proclaimed.

'And signs will follow those believing, in my name they will expel demons, they will speak with new tongues...they will place their hands on the sick and they will get well...they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, confirming the Word through accompanying signs,' Mark 16:17-20

2. Laying On of Hands

The healing power or presence of God may be transferred by touch or the laying on of hands may administer a healing gift.

i. 'As the sun was setting, all who had sick ones, with various diseases, brought them to Him, and He laid hands on each one of them, and healed them. Luke 4:40

ii. 'Woman, you have been freed from your infirmity' and he laid hands on her: immediately she was made straight, and glorified God,' Luke 13:13.

iii. 'The father of Publius was lying down sick with a fever and dysentery; Paul entered in and prayed, laid his hands on him, and healed him,' Acts 28:8

3. His Sovereign Presence

The presence of God may cause healing and deliverance in an assembly spontaneously or in an atmosphere of worship.

i. '...the power of the Lord was present to heal them,' Luke 5:17

The healing presence of God may be released into a particular situation through words and actions.

4. His Delegated Presence

The presence of God may be transferred without direct contact.

i. 'they carried out the sick into the streets, laid on beds and couches, that the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them,' Acts 5:15

ii. 'God did unusual works of power by the hand of Paul, so that hankerchiefs or aprons from his body were brought to the sick and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them,' Acts 19:12

ii. 'Entering into the house, greet it: if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it,' Matthew 10:13

5. Word of Command

A spoken word, in the will of the Father and authority of the Holy Spirit, will release healing and freedom.

i.'I say to you, if you have faith as small as a grain of mustard, you can say to this sycamore tree, be uprooted and planted in the sea – even it would obey you,' Luke 17:6

ii. 'I say to you, rise, take up your bed, and go home,' Mark 2:11

iii. 'Silver and gold, I don't have, but what I have, this I give to you: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk,' Acts 3:6

iv. 'Then he said to the man: 'stretch forth your hand,' and he stretched: it was restored whole, like the other,' Matthew 12:13

v. 'Come out, unclean spirit, out of the man,' Mark 5:8

vi. 'Paul, turning to the spirit said: I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her, and it came out that same hour,' Acts 16:18

vii. 'He took the child by the hand and said to her: talitha koumi, which translated means: little girl, I say to you, arise,' Mark 5:41

6. Word of Knowledge

A word of insight received in communion with the Holy Spirit which cures the sick or oppressed.

i. 'For through the Spirit is given the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit,' 1 Corinthians 12:8

ii. 'Who, looking at him and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a great voice: stand up on your feet,' Acts 14:9

7. Word of Promise

The written Word of God can be declared in order to bring about healing.

i. 'For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intentions of the heart,' Hebrew 4:12

ii. 'I am the Lord that heals you,' Exodus 15:26

iii. 'Who carried our sins in His body on the tree, that dying to sins, we might live to righteousness: by His wounds you were healed,' 1 Peter 2:24

8. Healing Word

Reading and listening to the Word of God has the capacity to bring about healing and deliverance.

'My son, listen to my words, incline your ear to what I say: do not let them depart from your sight, keep them in the midst your heart; for they are life to those who find them and healing to all their flesh,' Proverbs 4:20-22

9. Prayer/Petition of Faith

'Is any sick among you? Let him call the elders of the church to pray over him, having anointed him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will cure the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The petition of a righteous man is powerful and effective,' James 5:14

10. Intercession

Healing by the power of answered prayer.

i. 'First of all, I encourage you to make petitions, prayers, intercessions, and prayers of thanks on behalf of all people,' 1 Timothy 2:1

ii. 'Jesus lifted His eyes upward and said: Father, I thank you that you heard me...He cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come outside,' John 11:41-43

11. Prayer & Fasting

Healing by the power of answered prayer combined with fasting.

'And entering into a house, his disciples asked him: Why were we not able to cast it out? And he said to them: This kind comes out by nothing but prayer and fasting,' Mark 9:28-29

12. Prayer & Action

Desperate faith, or a petition combined with an action which requires faith, can obtain healing and freedom from oppression.

i. 'For she said: If I can only touch His garment, I shall be cured,' Mark 5:28

ii. 'And wherever he entered, into villages, or cities or fields, they laid the sick in the markets, and begged Him that they might touch even the hem of his garment: and as many as touched Him were healed,' Mark 6:56

9. A Watchman: watching and praying

Watchman cultivate an expectant hope for return of Messiah Jesus: 'I wait for the Lord, my soul waits and for His word I hope. My soul waits for the Lord, more than watchers for the morning, who watch for the morning,' Psalm 130:5-6.

Watchmen grow in passion for the Word of God and prayer, making intercession, or 'standing in the gap', for other people, families, villages, towns, cities and nations. 'I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem, they shall not be silent all day and all night: you who remember the Lord, do not stop,' Isaiah 62:6. This zeal is joined with meekness, in the sense of humility and gentleness: 'Moses was very meek, more than anyone on the face of the earth,' Numbers 12:3.

A watchman grows in seeing, hearing, feeling, tasting and touching the Father's heart of love and grief for His creation. This communion is the pathway to receive and mature in wisdom, understanding and revelation. As watchmen, we speak the received Word of God aligned with the Father's desire: 'but His word was in my heart like a fire, shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it in, and I could not,' Jeremiah 20:29.

The ninth part of the Lord's Prayer is 'do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil'. Prayer is essential to walking in the light: 'watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak,' Matthew 26:41. The ninth commandment is 'Do not lie'. Speaking God's truth is at heart of the prophetic ministry, choosing the fear of God, in awe and reverence, over the snare of fearing man.

Watchmen in practice

From the life of Moses, we can discern several keys to walking as a watchman found in Numbers 12:6 – 'Now hear My words: if a prophet is from the Lord, I will reveal Myself to him in a vision, I will speak to him in a dream. Not so with My servant Moses, who is faithful in all My house: I speak with him face to face.'

1. 'Now hear my words'

The Lord is more willing to speak to us than we are often ready to listen. Watchmen devour the Word of God (the written or 'logos' Word) which forms a plumb-line to weigh revelation (the spoken or 'rhema' word or vision) in order to discern the genuine from the spurious or false, in patient co-operation with the confirming peace of the in-dwelling Holy Spirit. These words are primarily for building up, encouraging and comforting the saints 1 Corinthians 14:3.

Dwelling in the presence of God through worship and prayer is a key protocol for positioning ourselves to hear His words and deliver them selflessly, without fear of man: 'Son of man, I have made you a watchman to the house of Israel: hear the word of My mouth and give them warning from Me,' Ezekiel 3:17.

2. 'a vision...a dream'

Receiving revelation can involve all the spiritual senses: hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch. Visions and dreams are used by the Holy Spirit to communicate His love and truth via imagery and narratives: 'ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you,' Matthew 7:7. Recording and meditating on revelation is crucial, since it is 'the glory of God to conceal, the glory of kings to search out,' Proverbs 25:2. We have a precious promise to steward God's secrets faithfully: 'For the Lord will do nothing without revealing His secret counsels to His servants the prophets,' Amos 3:7.

3. 'I speak with him face to face'

Abraham and Moses foreshadowed our privilege of praying and interceding for individuals, families, cities and nations (Genesis 18:16-33, Deuteronomy 9:13) concerning the will the God: revealed by revelation in conversation or communion with the Spirit of God. Habakukk 2:2-4 sheds light on this dialogue in practice: 'I will stand on my watch and set myself on the rampart, and see what He will say to me and what I shall answer at His rebuke. The Lord answered me and said: write the vision, engrave it on tablets so he may run who reads it, the vision is yet for its appointed time...and does not lie. Though it delays, wait for it, for it will surely come and not tarry...the just shall live by his faith.'

1. Enter through worship into a position of intimacy and posture of expectancy: 'I will stand...'

2. Focus on Jesus Christ: to 'see what He will say.'

3. Write down, meditate on and review the encounter: 'write the vision, engrave it on tablets.'

4. Seek wisdom, understanding, counsel, interpretation and confirmation: 'so he may run who reads it.'

5. Look, listen, wait, receive and perceive in faith.

WATCH is a similar memory aid:

a. Wait for revelation:

Stilling the heart

b. Anticipate:

Raising, maintaining expectation

c. Test:

Measuring against the Word, inner witness & prophetic family

d. Contemplate:

Discerning interpretation, action and timing

e. Honour:

Following through in prayer and action

10. A Steward: accountable for His grace

I am a steward of character, talents and gifts: 'I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to each according to his work,' Revelation 22:12. Paul also reveals that 'all of us must appear before the judgement seat of Christ, for each to receive the things done through the body, whether good or bad,' 2 Corinthians 5:10. Each of us is accountable as a steward, from the most the gifted and prominent to those considered least, as the parable of the talents Matthew 25:14-20 makes clear.

The path of wise stewardship is paved with humility in our words and ways: 'But I say to you, for every idle word that men speak, they will have to give an account for it on the day of judgement - by your words you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned,' Matthew 12:36. 1 Peter 4:10 advises: 'as each one has received a gift, minister it to one other as stewards of the manifold grace of God.' The judgement is promised to reward the humble: 'the last will be first and the first last,' Matthew 20:26.

Our accountability is also for the needy, oppressed and disenfranchised: 'Come, the blessed of My Father and inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you visited Me, I was in prison and you came to Me,' Matthew 25:34.

The tenth part of the Lord's Prayer is 'Yours is the kingdom, power and glory'. Amazingly, we are stewards of His kingdom, power and glory:

the kingdom 'The kingdom of God is within you' Luke 17:21;

the power 'For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes' Romans 1:16; and

the glory 'Christ in you, the hope of glory' Colossians 1:27

The presence of the Spirit of God in our lives and places where we fellowship is very precious. It is worth considering the reverence and diligence with which the ancient children of Israel carried the Ark of the Testimony.

The tenth commandment is 'Do not covet'. This speaks into our possession of all things in Christ: 'all things are yours,' 1 Corinthians 3:22 as 'heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer together, that we may also be glorified together,' Romans 8:17. Hebrews 1:2 confirms that our Saviour Jesus Christ is the one whom our heavenly Father 'has appointed heir of all things, through whom He made the ages.'

A Steward's prayer

"Our Father"

I am a beloved son, wholly forgiven

and clothed with Christ's righteousness;

"who is in heaven"

I am an ambassador, hidden in Christ

seated with Him in heavenly places;

"holy be your name"

I am a disciple of the perfection of His wisdom and holiness

for the praise of your glory;

"your kingdom come"

I am a servant of the Most High, walking by faith, not by sight

taking up my cross each day;

"your will be done"

I am a brother of the risen son of love

a living sacrifice to spread your fragrance

with Christ in me, the hope of glory;

"on earth as it is in heaven"

I am a lover of the truth, consumed by the fire of your love;

"give us this day our daily bread"

I am a priest to the lost and broken

a vessel for your Spirit, a channel for your peace;

"forgive us our sin"

as we forgive those who sin against us"

I am soldier of faith in your love

armed with compassion, kindness, gentleness and humility;

"lead us not in to temptation, but deliver us from evil"

I am a watchman for the dawn

with expectant eyes fixed on Jesus

called to be holy and blameless;

"Yours is the kingdom, power and glory"

I am the steward of freedom in Christ and your grace on earth

to love you with all my heart, soul, mind and strength

to love my neighbour as myself.
Part V: D-Day & the European Awakening

D-Day, the largest military operation in recorded history, contains strategic insights for the restoration of apostolic/prophetic leadership at the present time.

On June 6, 1944, the Allied forces launched an assault on five beaches in Northern France, known as Operation Overlord. Each of these five battlefields can be related to the restoration of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers towards the vision of Ephesians 4:11-13, 'until we all come into the unity of the faith, and of the real knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfectly mature man, to the measure of the mature stature of the fullness of Christ.' (Augmented Bible)

It is encouraging that Operation Overlord began with serious failures and heavy casualties yet, by the grace of God, finished well. Plans and strategies are important but cannot substitute for partnership with the Holy Spirit, especially in the chaos of battle, when information is partial and contradictory, where resources are severely constrained or misallocated.

The Ekklesia, that is, the people of God indwelt by the Holy Spirit, resting in their position of governmental authority and in pursuit of the Kingdom, is being called to effective teamwork, sacrifice, perseverance, readiness and prayer.

Even as US divisions landed upon Utah and Omaha beaches, there has been a strong American influence on apostles and prophets in Europe. Meanwhile, it was British & Commonwealth units which landed upon Gold, Juno and Sword beaches. It is time for the UK's evangelists, pastors and teachers press forward and work together to harvest and prepare His Bride.

1. Restoring Apostles - Utah Beach

Utah Beach was the westernmost of the landing sites, selected with the objective of capturing the port of Cherborg, where shipbuilding continues today.

'I see apostles building ships, prophets providing navigation, evangelists pulling the lost on board, pastors keeping vessels seaworthy and teachers equipping the crew for success through the grace and knowledge found in Christ Jesus.' Dunkirk & the UK Awakening

Utah was unique among the battlefields in that enemy defences were reliant on controlling locks which were able to flood the region behind this zone. Movement was limited to 4 narrow causeways. Similarly, apostles are sent with a mandate to specific geographies and spheres of influence which require wisdom and careful obedience to navigate.

In spite of a difficult start, Utah beach was taken by the US 4th Infantry division with miraculously few lives lost. Twenty thousand troops and 1,700 motorized vehicles were landed with less than 300 casualties.

This outcome depended on overnight missions by the 82nd and 101st airborne divisions which neutralised enemy infantry strongpoints. We can correlate these with prophetic intercession and declaration for breakthrough on the ground. Many airborne soldiers were drowned or shot during the night. Likewise, the ministry of forerunner prayer is costly and sacrificial.

Effective teamwork between airborne and seaborne units served to prevent a counterattack in this zone. Allied paratroopers controlled the roads leading to the beach and the enemy was unable to determine the location of the main attack.

The restoration of apostolic ministry is a restoration of teamwork over the prevailing 'my vision, my destiny' mentality. We are all invited play unique and essential roles in fulfilling the Father's vision for His Son, as this manifests in one another, in labouring to prepare His Bride.

Utah Beach was divided into three sectors: Tare Green, Uncle Red and Victor which can be interpreted as representing essential components of apostolic ministry.

i. Tare Green

Discernment. Tares are counterfeit wheat or false apostles. Apostolic ministry involves displacement of darkness with light on the foundation of discernment between truth and deception, pursuing alignment with divine order rather than man-made systems and initiatives.

ii. Uncle Red

The Father's heart. Apostles are called to healthy spiritual parenting which leads others into a deeper connection with and reliance upon their true heavenly Father. Without adoption, the orphaned spirit relates to God as a less intimate 'uncle' figure instead of a good father.

iii. Victor

Overcoming. Apostles labour to reproduce a lifestyle of victory in Christ Jesus. Success is raising up Sons and Daughters as overcomers described in the seven letters of Revelation 2 & 3. 'And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their souls to the death.' Revelation 12:11

On D-Day, the landing craft heading for Utah beach were pushed off course by strong currents and suffered poor visibility due to the smoke generated by Allied bombing. Likewise, tenacity and resilience are needed to overcome the strong currents of prevailing attitudes and unexpected events. There is also the challenge of maintaining clarity of vision in the midst of the confusion and fear of man that pervades Western culture.

2. Restoring Prophets - Omaha Beach

Next door to Utah, Omaha was the most intense of the battlefields. The US 29th and 1st infantry divisions suffered 2,400 casualties while landing 34,000 troops. Similarly, the prophetic ministry is heavily contested in proportion to its potential to abundantly bless the body of Christ. Omaha was defended by sea and land mines, a network of trenches and machine guns. Spiritual minefields are manufactured by the pride of life, lust of the eyes and lust of the flesh. The pursuit of personal glory, greed and sexual sins adds many to the body count.

Omaha was divided into 4 sectors: Charlie, Dog, Easy and Fox which can be interpreted as representing key elements of prophetic ministry.

i. Charlie

Freedom. The name 'Charlie' derives from the old English word for a free man. Prophets are

called to release the saints into the freedom of their true identity and purpose in Christ Jesus. The mission objective of this landing was to take several villages with an element linking up with neighbouring forces. The prophetic helps to realign communities with the Father's will.

ii. Dog

Purity. Prophets are appointed to call the Bride into greater purity, especially where false doctrines have been sown. There were 13 enemy strongpoints, translated as resistance nests, reflecting the intensity of the struggle for biblical truths.

iii. Easy

Rest. Prophets call the Ekklesia back to the rest of God, the secret place of intimacy and fruitful union with Christ. This is the gracious yoke of Matthew 28: 'Come to me, all you that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' (Augmented Bible)

iv. Fox

False prophets. The true prophetic is at war with counterfeit revelation and its sources. 'For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.' Ephesians 6:12

A key mission objective was Pointe du Hoc, a promontory next to the beach, with artillery pieces positioned on the heights. US Rangers were tasked with scaling the cliffs to neutralise this threat. Prophets are engaged with spiritual warfare through prayer from a position of authority: 'and has raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.' Ephesians 2:6

Strong winds and currents blew the landing craft off course, causing much confusion and mixing of units as well as the loss of most of the tanks. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, victory comes 'not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, says the Lord of hosts.' Zechariah 4:6.

3. Restoring Evangelists - Gold Beach

Gold was at the centre of the 5 landing beaches and reflects the centrality of sharing the good news of the Risen Lord Jesus. Soul-winning is the heart of the faithful Bride. Here, the mission was to take coastal towns and a port, with the enemy occupying houses along the coast.

In this zone, the speed of the in-coming tide was much faster than anticipated due to a strong north-westerly wind. This meant that demolition teams were unable to clear enemy mines before the rising waters prevailed. Being spiritually prepared means watchfulness in prayer to prepare ourselves and the ground for action.

Gold was divided into 3 sectors, from west to east: Item, Jig and King.

i. Item

In our generation, evangelism is the core mission and the first item on the Bride's to-do list. Item is Latin for 'in the same manner.' In the same manner as Christ, we are called to seek and save the lost, adding to the list of names in the Book of Life.

ii. Jig

We are called to labour for souls in the joy of the Lord: 'for the joy of the Lord is your strength.' Nehemiah 8:10

Dancing also involves partnership. Remarkably, the British 50th Infantry division landed 25,000 soldiers with only 400 casualties. This was largely due to a preceding naval bombardment which cleared away many of the enemy strongpoints and artillery positions.

Similarly, evangelism depends on concerted prayer to prepare the ground for outreach. It was also planned that soldiers from Omaha would link up with units from this battlefield. The partnership of prophets and evangelists is essential for the harvest of souls, both in terms of local intercession and strategic insight.

iii. King

Evangelists are ambassadors of the coming King. Jesus Christ is the beginning, substance and end of this ministry. Evangelists are called to share a pure and simple message which demonstrates the authority of the kingship of Christ to bring repentance and salvation with healing and deliverance. Focus on the King is the key to unlock victory on every battlefield.

4. Restoring Pastors - Juno Beach

The 4th beach was taken by the Canadian 3rd Infantry division with heavy losses in the first wave. 21,400 soldiers were landed with 2,400 killed. Juno was the second most deadly battlefield, reflecting the challenges of pastoral ministry. Key objectives this assault were to connect with forces on neighbouring beaches, seize the airport west of Caen and to block the Caen-Bayeux road.

Juno was divided into 2 sectors: Nan and Mike.

i. Nan

Grandparents are often a unifying centre of gravity. The role of a pastor is to keep the children of God in connection across the generations. The Canadian troops were from a Commonwealth nation. A pastor's mission is steward the common unity of the fellowship with a passion for the people who are His treasure: 'that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.' Ephesians 1:18

Juno beach was located between Gold and Sword zones, representing evangelists and teachers, and symbolizes the pivotal role of pastors in gluing the fellowship together. Building teams with complementary gifts releases the fullness of the Father's will. Likewise, capturing the airport can be compared to creating a landing strip for the prophetic ministry to operate. Blocking the Caen-Bayeux route was a key measure to hamper enemy movements, including a counter-attack. Again, this reflects the role of a shepherd to protect the flock.

ii. Mike

Unity amplifies the voice of a family of faith to impact invisible and visible realms. Pastors lead many in obedience to the voice of the Good Shepherd. However, the desire to please and be pleasing to man leads some astray, given a natural affinity for relationship over doctrine.

On this battlefield, landing craft encountered the hazard of shoals of seaweed which hindered the attack. Seaweed represents the worldly attitudes and influences that can silence or subvert the gentle voice of redeeming truth in holy love. 30% of the landing craft at Juno were damaged or destroyed en route. Compromise with the world comes with a price tag in lost souls.

Again, the impact of an unexpectedly strong tide was to hide some enemy obstacles. This reflects the importance of pastors and prophets working together to steward revelation on strategy and timing. Anointed and skilful pastors are able to embrace the diverse temperaments and priorities of prophets, evangelists and teachers.

5. Restoring Teachers - Sword Beach

The Sword zone was assigned to the British 3rd Infantry division: 29,000 soldiers were landed with 630 lives lost. This operation was preceded by a midnight glider assault of the 6th Airborne division, which captured key bridges and neutralised enemy artillery guns.

Here, we can see a picture of partnership between prayer (the airborne units) and anointed teaching to build up the body through discipleship which demonstrates the Kingdom of Heaven. Gliders are entirely reliant on the wind, offering a good example of dependence on the Holy Spirit to inspire and empower the teaching ministry.

However, the soldiers on Sword beach were unable to join forces with the neighbouring units on Juno beach. This failure resulted in a 2 mile gap exploited by the 21st German Panzer division, which launched the main counterattack on D-Day. Similarly, the teamwork of pastors and teachers is vital to contend for the faith, strengthening and defending the flock.

Sword was divided into 4 sectors: Oboe, Peter, Queen, and Roger.

i. Oboe

The Cross. This wind instrument derives its name from the French for 'high wood'. The first priority of teaching is the revelation of the Cross of Christ. 'And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.' John 12:32

ii. Peter

Discipleship. Peter was foremost among the apostles to receive the revelation of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God. A second priority of teaching is helping others to grow as disciples through practical revelation of the scriptures which leads us into deeper relationship with the Rock.

iii. Queen

Authority. The journey of discipleship in grace and truth entails a revelation of royal identity and authority in the love of Christ. This path is one of servanthood and sacrifice.

iv. Roger

Warfare. Roger derives from a Germanic word for 'spear'. Teachers are equipping prayerful spiritual warriors to walk in victory over the world system, demonic and flesh. The Royal Bride is a company of overcomers whose focus on the King magnifies His glory and fame.

Thank you for reading The Menorah Bride.

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