Love & blessings...Tender Reed

Those Unfathomable "Secret Things"

Doing Battle With "The Prince Of This World"

Dr. Rexella Van Impe on "How To Deal With Negatives".

Bitterness, Resentment, and an Unforgiving Spirit

Forgiving and Forgetting

How To Have Right Attitudes

http://www.jvim.com/newsletter/pastissues/2013/20130114.html
Life Of Victory Over Negativity

I understand that when Yeshua descends at the end of Daniel's 70th week, all of Israel will corporately worship Him as Messiah, but will only be 1/3 of the number they start the 70th week with. I was always sad because I assumed the other 2/3's had passed without knowing Him. But it occured to me today that I'm unaware of any scripture that suggests such a dire outcome. Perhaps the 1/3 that are left represent the last one's of Israel that come to know Him, and the rest all die in Christ so that all Israel comes to salvation. I would guess the truth is between those two extremes, but may the Lord God soften their hearts to putty in His hands the moment we ascend so that they all come to know Him as Yeshua Ha'Mashiach.

We lift all of Israel to you concerned about her well being in the midst of such evil surrounding her.  Especially we pray for the peace of Jerusalem Your future capital where our Lord will reign in the Millenial Age to come. You have told us to do this.  We ask for blessings to rain on Israel that the world will realize the God of this universe favors Israel and the Hebrew people.  Protect every man, woman and child there.  Father, please strip away the spiritual blinders that many can see truth for themselves and turn to Jesus while they still can.  Bring a revival of all revivals to Israel now so that many will have their spiritual eyes open and receive Jesus as their Messiah.

Father, we know You will be victorious , that the battle is the Lord's.  Please help Jewish people to fully understand this now before it's too late.  Please protect the children, Lord.  Be merciful to them in this hour.

Indeed confuse the enemy and return their intent upon themselves so that no Israeli citizen is harmed.  Return weapons to senders.  May they blow up on launching pads. We pray this for our children here as well.  Surround Israeli and American troops with your Host of angels.  Allow them to see miracles that can only be described as coming from You. May they be in holy awe of what they see.  Bring them to Yourself as well. May you recieve the honor and glory You  richly deserve in these moments drawing the attention of the world to Your might and power.  Let Your love be seen but Your ruling Hand as well.  Let the world know You are in charge, not them!

Even though we see and understand where things in this world are headed, we still pray for peace.  May each of Your children feel this peace for their families and themselves in the days ahead as we keep our eyes on You, trusting our future to Your hands alone.  We remain Your humble servants worshipping You as our Messiah. Lord and King. I ask this in the powerful name of Jesus in the authority He has returned to us from His death on the cross.    How blessed we are to be New Testment Christians.  In love and gratefulness  we receive the honor in which You have blessed us .   You are our Father in Heaven.  May Your will be done in the days ahead.  Amen

Please feel free to ad your prayers on this thread!  Bless the people and nations of God!

Love & blessings...Tender Reed

Dreams/visions/voices are so neat to have as both of you did.
And someone wrote for today of the Planet Venus (Jesus) for another V.

Thanks,
Autumn

Dreams/visions/voices are so neat to have as both of you did.
And someone wrote for today of the Planet Venus (Jesus) for another V.

Thanks,
Autumn

Ruthie, this morning I was reading another post here on RITAN with videos about the rapture and Revelations explained. As I was watching the last two videos, I just got out of nowhere an immediately dejavu knowing like I had watched them before around this time in a past dream that it is now time for the rapture. Hope we go home soon to our heavenly home. God Bless, Jan

I think this dream is of the people (dead in Christ), since people may have already seen graves opened up in their dreams.

I was in a dream where I saw large sheep in the air getting close to me at nightime, so these that are already lined up just might be the Brides and Grooms that have been raised.

Not sure, but if I thought of it, I could of found my Grandparents, parents and their relatives in line. I was on both sides of the line, but up in the air with alot of light for background.

Soon we shall see!
Autumn

I already had tears from seeing this long line close to the Throne and it straight downward style and then a curve. I didn't see where it ended.

Autumn

This dream is a very special one! As I wrote an article of a dream with Someone is waiting patiently. The Prince had his hand showing a V or 2 fingers as Peace sign.

Last night, around 11:00pm, I felt myself in the air with seeing a very longggg line of Brides in White Dress on the left, and Grooms in black on their right.

I saw the Holy Trinity above on White Throne Chairs, and was so touched I immediately started crying. So many tears, that when I was shown next to me some 5-6 items. They seemed to be on a pink blanket. It was a group of dyed eggs, as stripes for decorating which where in a round wooden basket with a tall yellow handle. There where 5 dyed eggs laying in green grass as the filling.

Caddy corner above the basket was as stuffed white and pink bunny on its back with arms clapping a lot, and the feet where moving also.

Above this also caddy corner, I saw table decoration of eggs dyed as a certain piece. Then my eyes had too many tears, to see all the others that resembled EASTER.

Next is me with others as when I was in grade school. Later, I was in line for the kitchen. Someone handed me a large coffee cup (kind u put decorations in) which I took with my left hand being easier to reach. I looked into this cup which was white but had a writing on it towards the top. I read Rita Now this seems to be my handwriting in black marker ink!

The cup was empty.

So, the V sign from the Prince, and the very long line of Brides in white w/Grooms next to them all lined up about 1'1/2 apart from one another ~ I hope you remember what your bride dresses looked as, or maybe pick out a new one. I did notice mostly white veils, with a hat or two w/veil attached.

V ~~ Our Lord died on the cross, buried and was resurrected (rose again) is His Victory and are blessed Victory from him alone.

A timing, maybe Easter will be the celebration in Heaven ~ or around us going to be with them in His Glory!

Take care,
Autumn

Love & blessings...Tender Reed

It’s the broken, hurting heart reaching up to the sky
It’s praying, trusting God without asking reasons why
It’s Truth clung to when all hope seems out of sight
It’s letting go of the world and living in His might
It’s marching on in a climate of hostility and fear
It’s faith, the certainty and assurance He is near
It’s knowing the Savior; receiving His salvation
It’s about serving Him in grateful appreciation
It’s single-mindedness, a life under His direction
It’s victory in the power of Christ’s resurrection

John 11:25 (NASB)
Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies

Romans 6:4-7 (NASB)
4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.
5 For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection,
6 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin;
7 for he who has died is freed from sin.

YouTube Video Description:

Defeated by Christ, the devil resorts to lies and mind games to ensnare believers today.

In this eye-opening message, Joseph Prince exposes the devil's age-old strategy, and shows you how the enemy works to enforce strongholds in our lives.

Discover the simple yet powerful biblical solution to winning this battle over crippling defeatist thoughts that impede you from being all that God intended for you to be.

Hear this faith-filled message and be set free to enjoy mental wholeness and victory in every area of life today!
 

soon they won't be mocking anymore....

Maranatha.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paIyWhpUgS4

Love JD Faraq... his videos/teaching/preaching just keeps getting better!!!! This is for us RitaN's I promise you you will relate to this video!

Jesus is coming folks! He is coming!

Turning your ordinary oil into powerful Anointing Oil with prayers in the name of Jesus by Joseph Prince.

 

Excerpt from teachings of the Anointing Oil by Joseph Prince.

 

 

Get the full message on the power truth of the Anointing Oil at https://www.josephprince.org/onlinestore/US/p-1826-the-power-of-the-anointing-oil-2-dvd-album-ntsc.aspx

PS - you can use olive oil to do it

Leroy wrote:

God said it, i believe it, that settles it.

Amen brother Leroy! This is a great teaching! Thank you for putting this together!

God Bless and Love,

Verna
 

This verse i think is talking about believing that Jesus is the only way to be saved. It is talking about knowing who Jesus is, that is, knowing the person of Jesus.

it is not talking about earning,keeping, working towards, cleaning onself up, being holy, or getting "right with god" or any other matter regarding sanctification.

This verse is talking only about salvation, which is a seperate issue from sanctification (setting oneself apart from the world).

The previous verse:

1Jn 5:4  For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

Seems rather clear to me, that overcoming the world is about having faith in Jesus.

Overcoming the world is therefore about overcoming all the lies about Jesus, and what he came to do, who he is, who God his father is.

For example some of the lies and beliefs of the world about Jesus, that those born again overcome:

Jesus is just another wayshower.---like buddah, confusus or mohammad
Jesus is just a legend/myth
Jesus is just another prophet, mohammand is the last great prophet.
Jesus was not the messiah, we await another, for jesus did not fulfill the req for being messiah.
Jesus is a fraud, lier or lunatic...take your pick
Jesus is the spirit brother of lucifer.
Jesus is an arc angel
Jesus is a space alien
Jesus is a mere man, who attained enlightenment, so you can too, reach divinity.
Jesus got someone else to die on the cross, then ran off to france with mary magdeline and started a dynesty
Jesus is not enought to save you, you have to work at it too.
Jesus was an android.
Jesus only loves certain people, but not all.
Jesus dint really do any miracles, there is no such thing, or god.
Jesus will never return, or at least anytime soon.
Jesus death on the cross was not quite enough.
Jesus dint really rise from the dead, the desciples stole his body.
Jesus claims were all made up by Catholic monks in the dark ages..thus the bible is not accurate, for many things were changed or left out.
Jesus is just another god, any of the gods will do for enlightenment, or attaining nervana.
Jesus will not accept all who come to him, some are un-redeemable.

The world does everything it can to put Jesus in a negative light (lies, lies and more lies)

The world will do anything it can to dissuade anyone from following the one true light and life--Jesus who died, rose and is coming back soon, not to just Rapture his own, but to also rule the world, from Jerusalem, for ever.

so what does condemm one to hell?

1Jn 5:10  He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.
1Jn 5:11  And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

not beleiving who Jesus is.

if one does beleive, one will come to him and get born again.

One is not condemmed for not knowing, one is condemmend for knowing, but not believing/refusing.

Jesus is also known as the word of God. As it was in the beginning so it is now.

For in the beginning Satan the adversary to God and his word, challenged the trueness of Gods word:

Gen 3:1  Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?
Gen 3:2  And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:
Gen 3:3  But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.
Gen 3:4  And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:
Gen 3:5  For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

Thus:

Jesus is called the Word of God made flesh, that is God came down in a body, becoming like man.

Joh 1:1  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Joh 1:14  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Therefore it all comes down to belief, not self efforts to be holy, worthy, or attain a more rightness with God.

Jesus work on the cross did that, thus as it says in Hebrews.

Heb 4:5  And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.
Heb 4:6  Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief:
Heb 4:7  Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
Heb 4:8  For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.
Heb 4:9  There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.
Heb 4:10  For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.
 

Joh 6:29  Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

Joh 3:15  That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Thus the question remains, to all mankind:

Mat 16:13  When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
Mat 16:14  And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.
Mat 16:15  He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
Mat 16:16  And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Mat 16:17  And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
Mat 16:18  And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

The Gates of Hell (judegements/rulings/lies of) shall not prevail against The person and truth of who Jesus really is.

and the promise of everlasting life to those who overcome:

Rev 21:5  And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
Rev 21:6  And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
Rev 21:7  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

God said it, i believe it, that settles it.
Leroy

DO NOT LISTEN TO HIM!!  Give this video a listen -- it's just audio.  Have it running in the background of whatever you're doing.  The words I said weren't planned -- I only had the Bible verses picked out.  I believe God gave me the words in this video to pass along to you.  I pray this video can help those who cannot seem to get out of their sin/guilt/shame rut.

Feel free to share this video with anyone you like.  I will be praying for you!  :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=treziboJGI0

~~Becka

For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
 

 Personally I think one of the things that makes the difference In a Christian living or not living a defeated life, is perspective.. another fav scripture of mine is..

 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.Romans8:28

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

The mystery is how can one read the above scripture, receive it into their heart, and then lead a prosperous life of victory. While another will read the same verse and within minutes or hours is found cloaked in defeat. Have you ever found yourself in a position where you wanted to believe and receive a promise from God, but found yourself in the grasp of defeatism? Today I want to talk to you about how you can transition your life from one that believes in victory to one that experiences it. Praise God, we have been called by Christ to experience victory in our lives on a daily basis, not just a hope that we can.
Through Jesus we can experience every victory detailed in the Word of God in our lives. Victory over sin, sickness, and temptations. We can grasp the promises of God and they are applicable to us today.
Step one is realizing that the Word of God, the Bible, IS the Word of God. He has given us His word to guide us, strengthen us, and encourage us towards a life of victory. Through His Word He leads us to victory.

"For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double edge sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

"Direct my footsteps according to your Word; let no sin rule over me." Psalm 119:133

There is no way to experience victory in our lives unless we actually know what victory is. You can not believe in a promise from God if you have never heard of that promise.

The story comes to mind of a family that wanted to take a nice week long vacation on a cruise ship. So they scraped together money for months in order to afford the tickets for a cruise. The time arrived and they had just enough money to purchase the tickets. Unfortunately they would have no spending money while aboard the ship though. So they packed plenty of bread and crackers for the trip in order to have food to eat. Well, the cruise was going great. They enjoyed all the fun that comes from relaxing on the deck of a cruise ship, and whenever a meal time would roll around, they would just all meet back at their cabin for crackers and bread. Not a luxurious meal by any standards, but they wasn't hungry at least. Near the end of the voyage the captain had noticed that every time meal times would come, the family disappeared back to their cabin. His curiosity pushed him to ask why they wouldn't go and eat in the dining hall with the other guests. The father explained, "we only had enough money for the tickets, and not enough to spend on food during the cruise. So we brought us some food and have been eating it in our cabin this week." The captains' heart sank as he explained to the family that all the meals in the dining hall were included in their ticket price.

Because they didn't know they were able to eat of all the wonderful food available, they were left to bread and crackers all week. The principle is the same for us. The Word of God is full of wonderful things for our lives, but if we don't read them, we don't know what God has for us. We have to make it a high priority in our lives to get into the Word of God and learn what victory is.

Step two is that we have to guard the Word in our hearts. If God said it, then it is. It doesn't matter what anybody else says, or what we see and hear. If God's Word said it, then it is.

"Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him." Proverbs 30:5

God's Word is perfect. It can not be added to nor can anything be taken away from it. We know that His Word is living and active, perfect and flawless, so what keeps some from experiencing the victory spoken of in God's Word?

"When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart." Matthew 13:19

The enemy doesn't want you to know and understand who you are in Christ. If you grasp what you are as a new creation in Christ, then you grasp victory. You begin to transform from someone who just believes in victory to someone who experiences victory. How does the enemy come and snatch away the promises of God from our lives? He does it through our minds. Through our thought processes by injecting doubt or fear where God has put a promise.

Step three is winning this battle of the mind. How can we win this battle? What is our defense against such an attack?

"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:2

"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5

Our defense is to take captive every thought that comes against what the Word of God tells us. Since we know the promises of God are for us, that His Word is flawless, active and powerful, then any thought that comes in to discredit this knowledge has to be taken captive and removed from our minds. To dwell on anything that is contrary to victory in Christ is to allow the enemy to snatch that Word from us and leave us on the sidelines in defeat. Christ has taken us off of the sidelines and put us in the game. Through Him we can experience victory, not just hope for it.

"Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:4

"Submit yourselves then to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you." James 4:7,8

May we no longer be happy to hope for victory, but rather experience it in our daily lives.

God Bless and Love,

Verna

The ironic thing is, most people don't see depression, anxiety, or panic as a real illness. "It's just all in your mind, you can control it if you want to. You're doing this to yourself, snap out of it", they say.  But to me, it's worse than having a physical illnesss, because of the pain, rejection, isolation, and stigma that goes along with it....with little or no support with anyone.  That's the painful part. If a person has cancer, or a handicap, they are held up and supported as they should.  Well, I think a person who suffers with panic and anxiety should be supported, also.  The ironic thing is, many times it is caused by a malfunction in the brain chemistry like a seratonin or nor-epinephrine imbalance, or a hormonal imbalance, like in PMS, menopause, or having a hysterectomy.  Those are physical problems that manifest themselves in emotional problems, but unfortunately most people don't see it that way.  Very sad, indeed.

I will pray that your meeting goes well next week with your family.  I pray that the Lord will give them insight, compassion, and understanding what you're going through.  I will pray that the Lord puts compassion on your daughter's heart for you and will turn her around.  I will pray for your financial situation, and that the Lord will give you wisdom as to what to do about your living situation, whether He wants you to move in with this kind Christian gentleman or if He has other plans for you. ( I'm glad you've talked to his pastor, sounds encouraging.) But most of all, I will pray for healing for you, physically, mentally, and emotionally and that He will give you victory over this.  

Love and hugs to you, dear sister.

I pray the Lord blesses your neice with compassion and understanding, to employ you somehow to work at home.  That would be a perfect solution and help to you.

Praying too that the social worker has some concrete answers for you also.  And what a blessing that the gov't has advanced you enough to stay on another 4 weeks!  A result of all those praying for you and petitioning the Lord for answers and help.

The most secure answer may seem to be in accepting this brothers offer to live in his home, but my hope is that you will only accept that as the very last resort, and again, with full knowledge of pastoral leadership, yours and his, until something else can be found for you. 

It is very gracious that he has opened his home to you, and if it is God's best, it will happen, but if not, the Lord will provide another way before the next 4 weeks are up.  Thanking Him for the extra time He has given you in your home where you find peace.

Blessings and God's best in all of this ~

Thank God that the government gave you an advanced payment for another two weeks of rent.  How did that come about?  Are they going to help you every month, or is this a on-time thing? Have you met with the social worker?  I would love to see you receive a larger government subsity to cover your rent for every month.  I will continue to pray for that.

I know that you're exhausted and discouraged.  I know that you struggle every single day to do the simpliest things.  That's why the Lord has put it in our hearts to love and pray for you, because He loves you and has compassion for you. Don't give up.  Keep taking those steps forward, asking the Lord to help you. You have great courage.  Just cling to the Lord.

Love and hugs, dear sister.  You're not alone.

Sorry I have not been able to access the RITA site for a few days.

Now - the questions about my Mother.  She has already made it very plain that I cannot go and live with her which literally breaks my heart.  She uses phrases like "it would be unhelpful" and "at my age I would not cope" - so she is not going to change her mind and in fact just last night told me that we all need to stand on our own two feet.  I couldn't help it guys - but feel bitterness - she's living in a 3 br home all alone that my precious Father paid for fully - it went to her when he passed away - and she will not share.  I am an "inconvenience".  I am only convenient when she wants things done.  I have to face it - my Mother - although a Christian woman - has a selfish streak - even my Father used to sometimes say this when he was upset about something she had done.  So - living with her is not an option.

As you'd imagine I am feeling extremely rejected and in disbelief about some of the emails she sends me "oh Susan -I am out of milk - please bring me a litre of milk today if you can" or forwarding me jokes other people have sent (sorry but the last thing I need in my email inbox are jokes). 

Yes - Im in grave danger of that nasty spirit of bitterness and I am praying constantly for me to be more accepting and just put it out of my mind - still - she is my Mother, says she loves me and this hurts me very much.

Yesterday I got an advance payment from the government which will cover a further 2 weeks of rent - giving me now 4 weeks from yesterday.  In the meantime I continue to pray for a door to be opened - a path to be shown to me.  Im still in full blown panic mode - each day gets a bit harder.  I can't eat - but I force down some crackers and cheese each night and I drink milk - fluids are much easier to get down.

The first session with the psychologist was pretty hopeless - deep breathing exercises - but she couldn't hide her shock about my situation and about the lack of help from family.  Ive emailed my niece asking if there is any work from home they can give me (she and her husband have a large Cardiology practice) - but I doubt anything will come of it.  I also keep looking for any other work from home but jobs are scarce as it is.  Unemployment is reasonably high here in Australia.

It's just so ironic that the one place I feel any measure of peace is here.  I have asked the Lord if there is any reason why I am in this situation -does He have anything to teach me from it - no answer as yet.  I am also praying for my health to be restored so I can work outside the home.  I get somewhere every day through sheer willpower - a trip to the pharmacy or supermarket - just to ensure I am not completely housebound. 

Actually - I am totally exhausted now.  Weeks of panic and terror have taken their toll on me - physically, mentally and spiritually and some days all I can get out is "please help me Jesus" but I know He knows better than anyone what's on my heart.  So there is an update and I'd be pleased if you would continue to uphold me in prayer.... I guess I need a miracle.

ysiC, Susan xxx

by David Wilkerson, Tues. July 19
[May 19, 1931 – April 27, 2011]
Moses had a disposition like many of us today so there was only one way for him to stay in victory. He continually communed with the Lord: “And the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend” (Exodus 33:11). I believe the secret to holiness is very simple: Stay close to Jesus! Keep looking into his face, until you become like the image you behold.
One evening a hysterical woman stopped me on the street and blurted out a desperate confession. “Mr. Wilkerson,” she cried, “I’m facing the darkest hour of my life and I don’t know which way to turn. My husband has left me and it’s all my fault! I have failed God and my family. What in the world am I going to do?”
I was moved to tell her, “My friend, lift up your hands right here on this street corner, and begin to worship the Lord. Tell him you know you are a failure, but you still love him. Then go home and get on your knees. Don’t ask God for a thing, just lift your hands and your heart and worship him.”
I left that lady standing on the street with her hands raised to heaven, tears rolling down her cheeks, praising the Lord and already tasting the victory that was surging back into her life. “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel” (Psalm 22:3). The Lord makes his dwelling with his people who are worshipping, and where the Lord is, victory follows.
Christ says: “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (John 6:37).
“Come unto me, all ye [failures] that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Don’t be afraid of failure. Keep going in spite of it. Worship God until victory comes! This may sound like an oversimplification, but the way past failure actually is simple.
 

With that said, I agree with Kolleen it's best to hear it from your mother face to face.  I understand that you don't want to impose on her, put her on the spot, or risk being rejected by her.  I'm the same way. But believe me, if I were in your situation, I would take the risk.  At least you would know for sure where you stood, and it would clear the air.

If by chance your mother says "no", and if there no help coming your way from your daughter or your niece, then I would tell her that you have no other choice but to accept that kind man's offer to give you a place to stay because the only other option would be to be homeless.  Tell her that you have exhausted all other options, and have done all you could to help yourself to no avail. Explain to her that since he lives so far away, you would not be available to her to come over and run errands for her.  Tell her that would not be your choice, but under the circumstnces, you have no other viable alternatives.  Hopefully, that would give her the opportuntity to look at the situation from all angles and help her to weigh her options.  But the choice would be hers once you laid your cards on the table.

Susan, everything is going to be all right, dear sister.  The Lord loves you so much, and He will help you. 

And Verna, good for you to face that crippling fear!  It looks like the fear turned into a full-blown phobia, but you allowed your anger to give you the fuel to fight the fear.

I've experienced paralyzing fear in an area of my life. I want to share it with you in hopes that it might help you. I decided to learn to ride a motorcycle. After taking the safety course and passing, I got my license. The first time I took my bike out just riding, I took a corner too fast and was thrown off the bike at 20 mph. After that day, I was too paralyzed with fear to ride it on the streets. One afternoon, I had it at the end of the driveway, and I was locked down with fear. I'd been taking it to the end of the driveway for about a month and a half without going further. I couldn't get it out on the road. I sat there in tears. My husband walked down the drive to me and said, "Ride it or sell it". He walked off. It was so harsh, and I didn't like it. I got mad. I got angry. I rode it.

The first time, I was scared witless, and the second and third weren't much better, but I was determined in my anger over what my husband said to "ride it". One day, I looked up and it dawned on me I wasn't scared anymore. Long story short, my husband knew my character and knew that making me mad would make me fight. Satan needed to be kicked in the teeth. I'd let him steal too much. It was time to go to the enemy's camp and take back what he stole from me. It was a lesson that I needed to "do it afraid". Walking through my fear instead of running from it, freed me, and just like Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego, Jesus danced through the fire of fear with me. Take heart my sister, you have the armor of God. You are more than able to fight! Get mad at the enemy, and take it back!

I agree with Kolleen that you need to talk straight to your mom. I know your sister told you not to, but this is between you and your mom and the decision should rest between the two of you. With regard to the gentleman, I wouldn't do this unless it is absolutely your last remedy and with much caution. Before it might even become an issue, I think it would be wise to speak with his Pastor to find out what type of gentleman he is. Find out who his friends and neighbors are, and speak with them as well.

God Bless and Love,

Verna

I think it is a crucial point to ask her mother face to face - but in my opinion without other family there - if she can move in with her, regardless of what the niece advised Susan.

The niece is not facing homelessness, and I think the question and decision should be between mother and daughter alone, so that there is no negative influence surrounding them.

If the social worker can provide some practical and do-able answers that Susan has peace with, that is another option and would be a wonderful turn of events.  May the Lord make every option available to Susan and may He reveal His best for her soon so that she can rest and lay her head down at night in His sweet sleep and comfort.

Still praying, dear sister.

I've been following you on Rita and my heart just goes out to you. I can't think of anything to say that others havn't said already. I agree with Kolleen's advice. I know when faced with a situation like you're facing our minds just can't funtion properly. I've been in some pretty dire straits a few times  and can very well relate. I'm amazed at how family can be so heartless when loved ones need them so much and yes I've seen this happen so I know it does.

Let me tell you a story. Last year my ex daughter-in-law lost her job, her fiance walked out on her and she had a breakdown. Then her unemployment ran out. She went out of her mind. She called my son asking help and then called me. After hearing some of the things she was doing I became concerned and went to see about her and the children. My son drove me there (600 miles). I'm so glad I did go. Her house was a disaster, no food, electric and phone ready to be cut off. House in foreclosure. None of her family would even answer her calls. This woman has always worked and supported herself, took care of her children and ran a tight ship. Loved her family and would have  done anything for them. I was amazed at how they turned away when she needed help and support but I saw that with my own eyes. But more than anything it broke her heart that they could be so heartless. She said to me and I still break down at this, "Brenda, my heart is so broken". I pd. the phone and electric, went shopping and got her settled down. Got some nerve meds for her. After 2 wks. I had to come back home as I have a home and pets to care for. I loaded them up and brought them with me flea covered dog and all. Her daughter is a nurse here and we got her into see the doc, got her on some meds and treated the doggie for fleas. Now this is the kicker here, My son and daughteer are mad because I stepped in to help when no one else would. Her family are saying they didn't know things were that bad, which is not true, so go figure. She did go back as her and the kids didn't want to live here. I offered them a place to stay as long as needed with some rules. I'm pretty picky about my house being clean but we got along pretty good. She left the dog as she can't have pets in her apt. and now has a good job. She called me at Christmas to tell me thanks again and that she would pay me back as soon as possibly. They are doing alright now I guess. My son doesn't have a very good relationship with his kids. He's busy with his life, you know work and one new girlfriend after another. 

O.K. now that I've told you all that, I reread youe letter and tried to put myself in your shoes. Since I'm not under the actual stress I can think more clearly than you. If what you're telling us is actually the way it is then you'll have to act on that. I would try to place my kitties in a home as you will not be able to care for them. I know that even hurts me to say that cause I love my pets so much but we have to do what we have to do. Then if you don't have money for storage or no one will store your things them have a sale. If you have a car sleep in your car or find a shelter. Don't set around and panic, get up and take action. I will offer my home to you until you can get strightened out. Maybe others will offer the same and with everyone doing a little you can return to a normal life eventually. Will anyone else offer here. I can offer pray and advice but I think you need concrete help. Also lets all remember something, earthy things are not gonna go with us when the Lord comes for us and Susan's physical need is greater than any earthly thing right now. I posted my e-mail earlier on but one of the mods took it off and asked us not to do that. If you're interested in relocating to the U.S.A my offer stands. We'll need to go through the moderators. Be blessed Sister.

Peace and Love in Christ.

I'm not sure if you read what Susan said in a previous post, but Susan's neice told her not to ask her mother to move in with her because she needed her peace.  I'm pretty sure that's why Susan is hesitant to ask her mother for lodging.

However, Susan, I think Kolleen has a point.  I would strongly suggest that you have a meeting with all your family: your daughter, your neice, her husband, and your mother and tell them just how dire your situation is.  Explain to them that unless you receive the funds to be able to pay your rent in two weeks, you will be evicted from your apartment.  Tell them that you have done everything in the world to help yourself; i.e., seen a psychiatrist, gone to the government for help, tried to work, etc. and there is no help forthcoming.  Swallow your pride and put aside your concern about imposing on your family and ask for their help straight out, whether it's to help you financially to be able to stay in your apartment, or a place to stay.  Like Kolleen said, the worst they can say is "no"  but at least you will know where you stand. 

About living with that kind gentleman, I would only take him up on his offer as a last resort after you have exhausted all your other resouces....your family and the visit you have with your social worker next week.  And, of course, with the understanding that the relationship would be strictly platonic just as friends. 

Personally, I hope that the social worker can help you find a government subsity to give you the financial means to stay in your apartment.  I will pray earnestly for that.  And I will continue to pray for complete healing for you, and that the Lord will put compassion on the hearts of your family to help you. 

Love and hugs, dear sister.

please be very careful before you move in with any man even if he is a christian and has been very good to you. 

Ask God for confirmation about him and if you should accept the offer. please be very careful. there are way too many people out there who would take advantage of someone in your situation.

Susan>>  But not worried sick enough to offer me a home (yes this still hurts and I am asking God to help me put it out of my mind and reach a state of acceptance about this.

Dear Susan ~ this was one of my main points in all that I wrote to you!

Is there any reason that you cannot ask your mum for lodging?

My point was for you to not hope or wish that your family would ask you to stay with them, but that you would ask them, whichever one, and it looks like your mum, for a place to stay.

Could it be that it is the Lord wanting you to ask outright for your mum to give you a place?

What do you have to lose in asking her? 

Why not lay down anything and everything within you that wants you to resist asking her for a place to stay, and just ask her.  This is what I was trying to point out, that your situation is dire, and that it is important to ask your family to be involved in helping you.

If your mum has the space and the place, then why not take the step to ask her for accomodations?  It may be Gods answer for you.  She may be thinking just like you are, "Well, Susan hasn't asked to move in with me, so it must mean she doesn't want to live with me...."  We don't know the thoughts of another until we ask!

Why not ask her, just so that you can say either way, that you have done it, and can check it off either way, in that she says either no or yes!  If she says yes, would it be the answer you need and are looking for?  Would it be the immediate answer to  your need and the best choice for you under the circumstances - if your mum said yes, come live with me?

Your mum is the one who has everything to lose, as she would lose your companionship, and the help you give her in the needs she has, and how she depends on you. 

It would only be fair to her, to give her the choice of deciding, does she want to lose all that by your moving away into this man's home, or does she want you to stay, and therefore she will offer you the place you need.  At least please give her the chance to give you the opportunity to stay with her or not.  It is better to speak up and ask her openly, because how do you know that living with her is not Gods answer for now?  What if the answer is living with her, what if she would say yes, but you will not know if you don't follow thru to ask her.  If she says yes, live with her, it will be her love for you extending out to you.

When you mentioned this man who has come alongside you now, it was wonderful to see the spiritual and prayer support he has been to you.  And it seems a divine connection that the Lord has raised up that a brother in the Lord would extend himself and dedicate himself in going the extra mile to help see you thru what you are facing. 

As much of a godly man and help that he is to you, I sense a caution regarding any woman moving into any mans home who is a stranger to them.  This is the reason that I would ask you to first verbally ask your mum if you can live with her. To know for certain whether or not it is God's preferred choice for you!

If your mum says no, and it is your decision to move in with him, I hope it is with the full knowledge of your pastors, his pastors, and leadership, so that as soon as possible they might be able to help place you in a different living situation, where a single man and a single woman are not sharing the same house. 

Please receive and accept all that I am trying to share with you, in the way that it is intended.  That you have God's best, and know what His best is by following thru with the things I have suggested in these last hours of decision.  Please offer your mum that chance by talking to her, to open her doors to you - or not - but at least you will know if not, that you gave her the opportunity, no matter the outcome.

Blessings and love ~

Matthew 11:28-30

28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

I want you all to know I appreciate your suggestions.  Problem is - I am literally "paralysed by fear" and this is making it terribly hard to even get out of the house - actually it's got a bit worse - I seem to only feel a measure of peace in my bedroom.  Im having a visit next week from a Centrelink Social Worker.

However, a gentleman I met recently through a Christian website here in Australia and who has been praying for me and visited me last Sunday night specifically to pray with me and loan me some books has offered me accommodation  -just like that.  He said the Lord had impressed on his heart that he was to be of service in my life. I am gob smacked.  He is a lovely man - divorced not of his own choice and with a teenage daughter and a 20 year old son.  He attends a Pentecostal church.  He has called me every night and prayed with me over the phone and sends little emails throughout the day with prayer and praise points.  The Lord has surely put this man into my life for a reason.  He lives in a rural area - about an hour and a half away from here so it would be difficult but the lifeline is there if I need it. I am ashamed that a virtual stranger would take me under his roof - but the Lord has laid it on my heart to be thankful rather than ashamed (I am ashamed of my familly).  I managed my normal Saturday morning taking my Mum to and fro her hairdresser appt - then she wanted to go to the garden shop - then the library.... she never thinks of the cost of gas and she chattered on like there was not a care in the world.  It is like her eyes have been closed - although in an email she said she is "worried sick" about me.  But not worried sick enough to offer me a home (yes this still hurts and I am asking God to help me put it out of my mind and reach a state of acceptance about this).  If I end up living down at Victor Harbor in this gentleman's home I will not be able to care for my Mother at all.  I am seeking God's wisdom in this matter - but it was no small coincidence we met and he is such a lovely man who clearly walks with the Lord.  I have no feelings of 'romance' and hope he doesn't either - I am not in that space at the current time.  God has laid it on my heart not to live with my sister - I believe she and her husband deserve the time she has left - to be together with no intrusion. They have been married for 40 years now and are still as in love as the day they wed.  As she is now off all treatment they have told her her time is very limited - we are still praying for her healing though - we will never stop that until she has gone home to Glory. 

Once again, thank you.  Many of your responses brought tears  - tears of release which are probably cleansing tears.  Today  - for the first time in many weeks I feel as if God is in control of the situation and I have a measure of peace in my heart.  I may be homeless, I may be without my things, I may have to find homes for the puss cats - but nobody can take my Jesus away from me.  To be able to sit quietly today and actually enjoy a cup of tea and a biscuit without having nausea was wonderful - it's amazing how we take the smallest things for granted.  It is raining here and I like to think of all the little seeds lying dormant under the earth  - waiting to burst forth in the spring time with flowers and leaves - I know my Spring time will come again too.

With love and thanks, ( I will keep you posted)

ysiC, Susan.

Never feel that you are a failure.  You have an illness, the same as a person who has diabetes or cancer. I would love to be able to help you.  But what I can and will do is continue to keep you in prayer, dear sister. You are in my thoughts and heart on a daily basis.  I will pray that the Lord gives you the strength to take one step as a time as He leads. One baby step at a time. 

I know you feel overwhelmed with life and with the struggle with your fears.  Pray and ask the Lord what He would have you do on a daily basis.  Then ask Him for the strength to do what He leads. If He wants you to take your sister up on her offer for you to move in, then do it. If He leads you to ask your daughter or niece for help, then ask Him to prepare their hearts and give you the boldness to do so.   I know that you've always been independant and taken care of yourself. And I also know that it's difficult for you to ask for help because you don't want to impose.  I understand that very well, I'm the same way.  But it's time that someone took care of you now. Do whatever the Lord leads you to do.  The important this to do is to be proactive and keep taking steps forward.  Don't ever give up.  There is always hope in the Lord.

I have faith that the Lord is going to help you.  He loves you so much. I feel very strongly that He wants you to lean on Him completely. 

Love and hugs to you, dear sis.  You are in my heart and in my prayers.  Not only me, but you can see the love and compassion you have with us here.  Everything is going to be all right.