Giants Used to Live There

Displacing Giants to Hold the Promise

Deuteronomy 1:21, Deuteronomy 3:22 Ye shall not fear them: for the LORD your God he shall fight for you.

Our main obstacle is not the giants that threaten from outside but the ones inside. It takes God longer to deal with the internal giants of sin and doubt. For the children of Israel it took 40 years in the wilderness. Before they could finally reach the promised land, they had to overcome attitude and other barriers such as the river Jordan. In the promised land, they had to overcome giants in the land. Before you reach the land of God’s promises, you have to overcome some giant (s).  The land of promise is a land of displaced giants. We displace the giants by faith in God’s ability and faithfulness. He backs his word with his almighty power. In Numbers 13, the nation of Israel failed the crucial test for exploits with God. They failed the test to trust God in face of giants that hinder God’s promises and their enjoyment.

In Deuteronomy 2 and 3, we find part of the final preparations to cross over to the land of promise. The generation that doubted God is now dead except Caleb and Joshua as God had declared. Moses explained to the new generation why they had spent so long in the wilderness. He also made them pass peacefully through land where giants just like the Anakims (Deuteronomy 1:28) used to live but where now occupied by the descendents of Esau who dispossessed Giants called the Horims, the Avims and the  Caphtorims (Deuteronomy 2:6,7,23). They also passed through the land of the descendents of Lot who had disposed the Emims and the Zamzummims (Deuteronomy 2:9-11, 2:20). This experience exposed them to examples of nations that had successfully dispossessed giants to help them psychologically to believe that they also can do it more so with God on their side.

He also allowed them to experience pre entry victory over Sihon and Og on final stages of their way to the promised land. Initially, besides clear instructions to go in and possess the lands of these kings, they were asking for permission to pass through peacefully but Sihon rose in outrage against them. The lesson for us is that your enemy will not let you pass through easily. What ever you admire of and in others, they had to contend and dispossess giants. Fight by maintaining a life of daily prayer time, God’s word and faith. The kingdom of God suffers violence and the saints take it by force.

In our lives as believers the giants come to steal to hinder the abundant life Jesus came to give (John 10:10). The abundant life (Zoe) Jesus came to give (John 10:10), is different from the basic life one has to be alive (Psuche). Zoe life is things going well for you. It is overflowing life with joy and peace. It is life in its fullness as designed by God. 

Why does God let us kill giants instead of him removing them before we face or even see them. 

 Overcoming giants helps you:

- To know God better and glorify his name more. They reveal God’s love and its power for us. God’s love is really our power. Without love, God’s power is not ours. His love directs his power to our favor.

- To know yourself and your potential. You cannot know you are a giant killer without killing some giants. You are more than a conqueror because you have to defeat conquerors (giants).

- To help you value and guard what you have received from God. You will not fully know and value your victory if you do not participate in obtaining it.

- To take away fear and strengthen faith. You are freed from fear of giants that may threaten in future. You gain confidence and a sense of security. If you able to dispossess them you are able to repel them to keep what is yours in God.

- To put fear in your enemies. The enemy will respect you and no longer attack at will (Acts 19:15)

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Refusing to be Short Changed

Revelation: Refusing to be Short Changed

Luke 10:25-37; Colossian 2:8; Luke 12:1

Let us continue last week’s theme.  The story in Luke 10:25-37 exposes a religious Spirit and a way to overcome it. Being religious can be worse than being an outright non-religious sinner. Karl Marx was not completely wrong when he alleged that religion is opium to people. If not checked, it blinds people to earthly opportunity to serve and be significant. Religion shortchanges by giving less than the real quest of the heart, which is life in Christ.

And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? How readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself (Luke 10:25-27).

Religion is a form of godliness that denies Gods power (2 Timothy 3:5).  Zoe is the power that eliminates religion. Zoe is a spiritual living relationship with God. It is full life, which comes from being led by the Spirit. It is living by spiritual insight not traditional rules.  To experience eternal life (Zoe) requires that you love God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, your entire mind and your neighbor as yourself. This requirement is impossible to fulfill apart from Christ. The religious lawyer however did not question how it could be achieved, instead he was keen to know how to identify his neighbor. He most likely expected the neighbor to be a fellow Jew. Jesus goes on to illustrate who the neighbor was and how religion pathetically fails to love him/her.  One’s neighbor is anyone in need. Unlike religion, life in Christ constantly looks out to touch and bring in new people to Christ, the answer.  It looks out to meet a need even if someone is of different background.

We live in a world where many are half-dead without Christ. A person without Christ is half-dead because if not reached in time  he/she will perish (John 3:16). It will take more than religion to rescue the half dead. It takes the life of our Lord Jesus Christ – the Good Samaritan. Jesus came to multiply good Samaritans. He saved us so he can save the half dead in our circles of interaction with people.

When the man attacked by robbers lay half-dead, two religious people a priest and a Levi passed by and did not help. Possibly, they thought he was already dead and touching a dead person would defile them. Possibly, they thought they did not need to be involved in the predicament of a stranger. Possibly, they were in a hurry to do service in the temple. Or to a prayer meeting. Could it also be that they feared being implicated in the man’s misfortune. Or feared that the robbers were still somewhere near and helping would endanger them. Whatever their reason they thought more of themselves and their religion more than a needy person. The Good Samaritan could also find reasons to pass by but decided to show love. He risked his life and testimony, and  it cost him time, convenience and money. He went beyond the minimum requirement by committing to paying the full bill and beyond (blank cheque). If your Christian service is centered on self and the already churched that is religion. Is it possible you can also fall in love with your own church people and programs and miss the church purpose, which is to be a source of help and hope to a needy world. We are called to press into God and press out to the community.

More indicators of a religious spirit:

Whenever the following tendencies are present, a religious spirit is operating. It must be repented from and resisted. It can wear pentecostal, mainline, or any other Christian garbs.

Religion is a spirit/mindset that substitutes religious traditions, rules and activities for the power of the Holy Spirit. It is holding on to and even dying for a form missing its function. What use is it to dress a corpse to kill when it is lifeless.

Religion is a righteousness centered on man. Religion is man doing his thing in the name of seeking or serving God. It is of man, for man by man. Man’s effort apart from God to save and preserve himself. Gen 3:13  It is man pleasing. It is looking at outward performance. God looks at the heart and intentions.  Often people do things in the eyes of God they would not dare do in front of people. They are more  are  afraid of people than God. Religion is man reaching to God. Life comes when God reaches down to humanity. Zoe is looking to Jesus. Zoe is that which is of God. In every Christian enterprise, organization or movement there is an element of life and of religion.

Religion is sticking to the way things have always been done even if its no longer effective. It is Saul’s armor. It is Nehushtan (2Ki 18:4). Religion is mechanical and inflexible. It is cold formalities. Life in Christ is progressive. Religion glories in what God has done in the past disregarding the present and future work of God. It is idolatry. It operates on outright error, or partial truth. Life in Christ puts truth first before miracles, appearances etc Jesus is truth – God’s property. The truth about your future, health, forgiveness and freedom, situation, children, spouse, finances, protection, provision.  Religion settles in a city/ past revelation but life in Christ seeks for a city.

Religion accommodates giants. Life in Christ overcomes them. Satan will let you worship as long as you live in sin, doubt and touch no one’s life for God.  Religion builds a golden calf on the ground. Life in Christ seeks God on the mountain.

Religion manipulates, intimidates, conforms and controls people. Life in Christ transforms from inside and is liberating. Religion locks you up, life in Christ moves you up.

Religion is legalistic and perfectionist. It condemns and accepts people because of outward performance. Its primary mission is to tear down the wrong instead of building the right. It does not tolerate mistakes of others. It is full of spiritual pride that sees other believers as less spiritual. Looking down on others and gossiping. Religion focuses on the negative and is blind to the good. Religion fails to meet its own standard of righteousness. So it leads to hypocrisy as the religious pretend they are meeting the standard. Life in Christ relies on Christ’s righteousness and power. Life in Christ is based on the undeserved favor (grace) of God through trust in the provision of the death and resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8).

The ministry of Christ our Lord was to seek and save the lost by preaching good news, forgiving sin, healing sickness, restoring hope and exposing the religious spirit.  Read Luke 5:21, 27; 6:1,2; 11:37f.; 13:14; 15:1,2  16:5; James 1:26

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Manifestation: On Earth as it is in Heaven

Manifestation: On Earth as it is in Heaven

Mathew 6:10, 1 John 3:8, Ps 119:89

Where God is present, there is evidence of grace. Evidence of His presence, power and ability must be seen or experienced. Electricity in a circuit is not evident until a connection is switched on to an electric gadget.  A TV signal is already in the atmosphere but requires an antennae and a system that produces evidence of a picture. The nature of picture and its quality is as good as the receptor system. Similarly, everything that we say God is doing, or should do, is really a mere manifestation of what God has already settled by his word in the spirit.  We only need to make the conditions for manifestation, such as proper positioning, obedience, and faith, joy, and expectation, right. Human vocabulary alone is not enough to manifest God. He has to appear.

The psalmist noted, ‘forever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven’ (Ps 119:89).   This verse means the word is finalized and nothing is still owing, or remaining. When God spoke, the tills in heaven rang. Now is time to collect what is already paid for the way you collect a parcel or gift someone else paid for you in full. The challenge is for you to make real what has already been established in heaven. The Lord Jesus said pray ‘thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.’ This prayer is for manifestation of what is already in existence to be seen in the natural. It is a prayer for the translation of potential to power. A prayer for the coming to pass of God’s promise. Revelation is seeing in the spirit what has not yet manifest. Manifestation is seeing its reality with physical senses. What is divinely ordinary becomes the humanly extraordinary. What is spiritually natural becomes the humanly supernatural. The transcendent becomes immanent. What was hoped becomes a reality. What was a promise becomes a possession. What was heavenly title becomes earthly possession. The issue is how to reduce/deduce spiritual truth to something tangible you can see, experience and relate with.

Jesus, the Word from the beginning, was manifested to destroy the works of the evil one (John 1:1; 1 John 3:8; John 4:4).  The Holy Spirit has been sent to manifest Christ and show you all things freely given. Jesus came to grant you title, a right, and permit to all that God has settled (John 1:12). The Holy Spirit also manifests the sons of God. The whole earth is now looking out for the manifestation of the sons of God. The sons of man with human limitations are already known. The world now wants to see the sons of God with divine nature and evidence.

The Bible is overflowing with examples of manifestations that occur from full obedience to God’s word based on confidence that it is already settled.  Elijah trusted God for rain and was patient as Gehaz checked seven times when there was a delay. A cloud manifested and turned to heavy rain (I Kings 18:53). Naaman even with reluctance obeyed the already settled word of God by dipping in the Jordan river seven times and saw his cleansing from leprosy manifest (II Kings 5:13). Peter trusted God’s word and walked on water (Mathew 14:29) but shifted from obedience and began to sink. What do you need to obey in full to see manifestation in your life?

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Earnest Prayer and Worship

Earnest Prayer and Worship

Acts 12: 6-8

May be you have never been told that you can do it, you can change, you can make it. Every person needs to here that things don't have to remain the same enough to believe and act on it until things change. Gods word was given in the Bible to accomplish that in every person's life. You need to hear it often until you believe and do what it says. Being born again guarantees eternal life but does no guarantee you success in this life. Success comes from keeping the word in heart, mouth and hand/feet. In other words store and meditate on it, sing and speak it and apply it.

Prayer is a subject on which a lot is said yet most neglected. the Bible says man ought to always pray (Luke 18:1). God says call unto me to see great and mighty things (Jeremiah 33:3). James wrote that the fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much (James 5:16, 17). Prayer is talking with God. It involves talking and listening. It should be done by individuals in private and also in groups.  You are as strong spiritually as your prayer life. You can't grow beyond your prayer life.

A church is also as strong spiritually as it's prayer life. A church is as big as attendance at it's prayer meetings. Corporate prayer is incredibly powerful (Acts 4:24; 12:6-8).  People who pray together stay together. There is a sense of awareness of God only experienced when believers pray together.

WORSHIP

Our only appropriate response to who God is and what he has done is to worship him. Every positive response to God by humanity is a form of worship, but what would you do if you lived in a world with no needs? Heaven is such a place and all they do is worship. What you need and seek in such a world is just God. That is the highest level of worship. Worship is one thing God cannot do for himself. God can do all things but cannot worship himself. The greatest thing you can do in this life is to worship God. When you take time to focus on God's face and not  his hand. When you adore him and seek him for who he is not what he can give. When you acknowledge who he is  and what he has done. True worship is not for our enjoyment but for His pleasure. It has God, not man, at the centre. Focus is not on you but on him.

Worship is something nobody can do for you. Worship is personal – each person must worship for themselves. You become like your object of worship. Worship is an attitude of deeply loving God as the only creator, source, sustenance and sufficiency (Mathew 22:38).  It is being still and know him – listening, lingering, not being in a hurry but giving God his chance to direct things. In Genesis 22:5, when Abraham was going to sacrifice his dearest and best, his only son, he said he was going  to worship. Worship is laying all on the altar.

Only God deserves worship. By worshipping you are demonstrating that satan is already defeated. That’s what he tried to stop/steal from God when he was cast out of heaven (Isaiah 14; Exodus 34:14). You can not worship without humility. You have to 'die' so he can live through you. He died so you can live through him. Let God be God in your life.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Expectation II: Strength to Bring Forth

Expectation: Strength to Bring Forth

Isaiah 37:3

'… This day is a day of trouble … for the children have come to the birth, and there is no strength to bring forth'.

Next engines to thrust us into more of Gods grace have come alive. We have a great future. We will see fruit in areas we experienced barrenness in 2011. God is able to do what he said he would do. The more He is able to work in us the more He can work through us. He works in us to develop inner strength so that we are able to wait (Hebrews 6:12), to have/ bring forth (Isaiah 37) and to hold/keep. We keep what we receive by walking in the Spirit. Sin saps spiritual strength (Judges 16:6; 1 John 1:9). Effectiveness in Christ relies on inner strength to believe God.

This message is about gaining strength to bring forth (Isaiah 37:3) - Strength to PUSH (Pray Until Something Happens) to avoid crises of expectation. Lack of inner strength can result in loss of the baby. Before there is birth, there is a carrying and expecting. Travailing comes before birthing. Things do not happen only as you expect but as you execute. To execute is to apply power. Power is ability to make things happen. Jeremiah prophesied that the nation of Israel would be in captivity for seventy years. So they expected to return  some day to their land. However, seventy years later they were still in captivity until Daniel learnt about Jeremiah’s prophecy from the books (Daniel 1:1-2). He did something about bringing forth the reality of the promise. He sought God in prayer. The woman who was healed from an issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34) was among many others with needs,  hoping to find miraculous solutions from Jesus. She received her miracle not only by expecting – or  by thinking ‘if I only touch his clothes I will be healed’, but by taking action. She pressed through the crowd to touch the helm of Jesus’ garment to bring forth her miracle. Mental imagination of a desired result is not enough. She acted out her expectation. Hanna, also, prayed and acted on her expectation (1 Samuel 1:11). She received Samuel as a result.

Faith is action (James 2:17). Faith begins as an attitude of confident expectation based on God’s Word and character, and is completed by a practical expression. Action brings forth the fruit of faith. You have to do something to show your faith. They that know their God shall do exploits. Heroes of faith were noted for things they did (Hebrews 11). Action begins with prayer. The heart of prayer is listening. Prayer leads to further action of obedience. Obedience can take various forms. It can be more praying, sowing, fishing, laying of hands, giving, forgiving, act of love/serving, or speaking.  

Nothing is too hard for God (Luke 1:37; Jeremiah 32:17, 19, 27). Sing oh barren woman (Isaiah 54:1-3).  Sometimes seasons of barrenness create a positive desperation. The quality of prayer tends to improve with desperation.  The babies born out of barren and impossible situations are born for special assignments (Isaac, Joseph, Samuel, John the Baptist, Jesus Christ, etc). They are a product of faith, patience, prayer, perseverance, waiting, desperation and travail. Our harvest of souls is great and is like these babies, born for a special assignment.

The current season of prayer is part of strength building and travailing in faith to bring forth what we are carrying. Our travail socked in praise will culminate in more praise. When God speaks, faith comes and travailing turns to praise. Things are getting better.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

The Hill is not Enough

The Hill is Not Enough for Us

Joshua 14:11-12; 17:3-4, 14-16

God leads you little by little. Each little has more than little returns and leads to more and more. Before long, the accumulation of the little steps becomes something so amazing and beautiful that you are inspired to keep taking the little steps. You become so excited and curious because you suddenly realize that the little steps he takes with you do not mean that he is a little God. You wonder how much more there is out there in God.

We are in a season when God is distributing portions of grace to do great things to his people.  Our season is like the time of the Children of Israel after they had crossed the river Jordan into the promised land. When they conquered the kings who were in the land Joshua allocated portions of land to the various tribes by lot. We can draw lessons from three examples of people who defied odds in making claims to portions of land.

1. Caleb remembered God’s ability and faithfulness (Joshua 14:11, 12). Even though he was now advanced in age he refused to be overlooked. It seemed he was over the hill, a spend force only to be honored for past heroic achievements. It seemed his season was over but he knew God was also a God of the off-season blessing. He remembered that his past exploits had never been based on his personal strength but his divine strength.  Divine strength  does not wane with time. God never changes. If he restored in the past he still does today. If he gave victory then he still does today. Joshua declared that he was as strong as he had been 40 years back when Moses sent them to spy the promised land (Numbers 13).  He said ‘I am not out yet. I am ready for war to go out and to come in. Give me the difficult mountain of Hebron also called the city of Arba to overcome. Arba was a great man among the Anakims and sometimes called the father of Anak. The mountain was in a narrow valley surrounded by rocky hills. Through him, God restored Hebron to the children of Israel.

2. The daughters of Zelophahad were also able to get their portion against the odds (Joshua 17:3-4).  According to Jewish culture the inheritance went to the sons. But since their father did not have sons they had appealed to Moses and to God and were promised their father’s inheritance (Numbers 27:1-7). Therefore, they also refused to be left out. They remembered the word of God and demanded to be counted in. They remembered that God kept his promise. He watched over his word to fulfill it. They went to Joshua and claimed their inheritance and were given their portion. Jesus has died for you to eliminate all the conditions that would disqualify you. His word is able to give you the inheritance. Rise up and make your claim.

3. The children of Joseph knew who they were (Joshua 17:1, 14, 16). They had already received portions but were not satisfied. They went to Joshua and demanded more. They said the hill they had received was not enough because they were a great people and that they had hitherto been blessed (Genesis 48:19,20). They deserved more. They knew who they were as a blessed people with certain privileges. They were not willing to let go of their privileges. They were not the greatest in number or seniority but had been blessed. Being blessed is to be marked for God’s favor. Favor tracks down and locates the blessed like a heat seeking missile does its target. Joshua agreed they were great and deserved more. He challenged them  to use their greatness and blessedness to extend their portion  by cutting down the forests and conquering the Canaanites restricting them

This is our season of harvest overflow because our God is able. He is looking for those with something inside them that is calling for something more. People who stand up for what is theirs. People who refuse to be overlooked. People who disrespect and shatter limitations.

Note Also:
http://bible.com/1/jos.15.17-19.kjv And Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.  And it came to pass, as she came unto him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted off her ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou?  Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs.

And she said unto him, Give me a blessing: for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And Caleb gave her the upper springs and the nether springs.
Judges 1:15 KJV
https://bible.com/bible/1/jdg.1.15.KJV

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Looking to God

Looking to God

Numbers 21:4 – 9

Becoming a Christian and continuing as a fulfilled one, is an ‘I was blind and now I see’ experience. As in the song, ‘Open the eyes of my heart Lord. I want to see you. To see you high and lifted up...’ Being able to see God is the key to passionately loving and trusting Him. When you fix your eyes on him, you gain an awareness and assurance of his presence (Hebrews 11:2; 2 Kings 6:17).

Knowing God is humanly impossible. Unless He shows Himself to the human heart, He remains unknown to the human mind. God being the creator has to show himself (Mathew 16:17). The unveiling of God to humanity is revelation. Revelation is an unveiling that enables you to see or hear his voice. You can position yourself in prayer, the word and the Holy Spirit for revelation to locate you. Before John received revelation, the angel invited him to ‘come up here and I will show you…’ (Revelation 4:1). Do you sometimes put yourself into places where you are unreachable to God’s signal?

The Bible is the complete primary revelation of God to humanity. The entrance of God’s word brings light (Psalm 119:130). In cherishing, meditating and obeying its message, God illuminates the primary revelation to a particular person, issue, or area of life.   The illumination can be viewed as secondary revelation for life.  The righteous shall live by faith. Faith comes by hearing the word (Romans 10:17). In other words, faith comes by receiving ‘revelation’.  Paul prayed that the Ephesians church would be filled with the spirit of wisdom and revelation (Ephesians 1:17). You also need to constantly ask for wisdom and revelation (James 1:5). Revelation without wisdom can be destructive when misapplied.

Numbers is an account of how the children of Israel wandered for forty years and lost a whole generation in the wilderness. They oscillated between spiritual highs and lows. The root of this instability was failure to sustain God’s revelation. The revelation of God or from God always brings a promise. That promise creates an expectation. The challenge comes on how to migrate from the place of revelation to the place of  its fulfillment (expectation).  Beginning has excitement but the test lies in being able to continue and to finish the race. Finishing gives the ultimate joy. God grant you grace not to look back until you cross the finish line.

The people of Israel were murmuring and spoke against Moses and against God (Numbers 21:5). They accused both, of bringing them to a place with no water and no meat to kill them. They spoke discontentedly of what God had done for them, and distrustfully of what he would do.

They wished they could go back to Egypt where they had food but they forgot the slavery and hard labor. They forgot both the goodness of God and the badness of  Egypt.  As  a result, God sent poisonous/fiery serpents (Numbers 21:6). The truth is there is nothing to go back for in a godless past life. Never be deceived, things outside God will never improve they will only get worse.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Expectation I: Hold on to Your Confidence

Expectation: Hold on to your Confidence
Isaiah 36:4-5; Hebrews 10:35; 2 Kings 2:9

We are living in the last days. Experts on Bible prophecy are watching closely peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. A peace between the two parties could mark a significant point in end time prophecy.  Non faith experts are also concerned with world developments and recently the Doomsday clock  that is an indicator of the vulnerability of the world to some catastrophe such as from climatic change or nuclear weapons, have moved the clock to five minutes to midnight. Midnight being an imagery of the end. In the past many have predicted dates of the end and have been wrong. Time is coming when false predictors will be wrong for the last time.  Those without Christ are expecting doom but we are not afraid. We are positively expectant. We look forward to the coming back of our Lord Jesus and to us joining with him to reign.

In Isaiah 36:4-5 Senachrib’s servant kept asking, ‘What is the source of your confidence?’ Our hope is pinned in the character and ability of God. To have hope you have to have confidence in something. Faith is confidence in something.  Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward (Heb 10:35, 1 John 3:21; 5:14; 2:28).  Hope is a positive expectation. It is anticipation something good will happen. In our lives and even when we gather lets expect God to work. Lets expect the Lord to be evidently present and people getting saved, healed and filled with the Holy Ghost.  Expectation precedes everything else in faith dynamics (Hebrew 11: 1-2).

Expectation founded on a credible basis  gives hope. God can be trusted. He is able and faithful to fulfill his word. He has the ability to occupy, defend and develop. Expectation without credible basis is deception, ignorance or madness. When  a credible  basis such as our God is not matched with high enough expectation,  it becomes a case of  lost opportunity.  May you not be guilty of this sin.

A challenge often encountered is one of crisis of expectation. That happens when the actual constantly falls short of expectations resulting in loss of confidence. Why are many in crisis of expectation? One reason is that the expectations match God’s ability but the inner/spirit man is too weak to deliver (Isaiah 37:3). Its like a child crying to  lift a 100kg weight because the father has such a weight. But because the child is small they can not lift the weight even if granted. God has given his grace lavishly. The limitation is our faith or the capacity of  the spirit man to handle his grace.  God in us works to the size of our spirit man. A large tree in a pot will not grow big. The territory has been provided for  you. Now you need to ask God to enlarge you for the territory. You can not remain a spiritual baby and expect great things (Heb 5:12). You need spiritual muscle and stamina. You  need spiritual rank that comes from disciplines such as meditating on God’s word, praying and fasting.  Allow the small challenges you face to build your spirit man as you respond in faith. Enlarge your spirit or develop the muscles of the spirit so you can handle the greater things of God. The greater  the works you expect from God the greater the work God wants to do in you. A tall building requires a deep foundation. The foundation of the future you expect is being dug in you. Often we want God, circumstance etc to change in our favour but everything hinges on you changing to God’s likeness.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Revelation: Life at its Best

REVELATION: Life at its Best

John 10:10,   Luke 7:1-17

Luke 7:1-17 has two stories that show the powerful results of a relationship with Christ. Both stories demonstrate that Jesus can turn around any situation. In one story, he simply used his word to heal a centurion’s servant. Today we have the same word to restore our situations. We need to put our trust in God’s word. Religious credentials of building the synagogue and loving Jews did not save the servant but simple faith in Christ. His word believed is life and as good as his physical presence.

The other story shows how God restores the worst of situations. For the widow who had lost his only son all hope was lost. To the widow, the son was a source of comfort, pride,  esteem and love. His death was loss of a close person, loss of an expected legacy, lost investment, lost hope, lost support, etc. She had many sympathizers around her but no solution. She was crying but Jesus said to her ‘Don’t cry’, in other words trust me. The Lord Jesus restored the son to her (Luke 7:15). Maybe you are at the city gate – going to bury your dead hope. Jesus has appeared for you today. He has compassion and is saying, ‘don’t cry, receive your hope back’.

How can you live life at its best - as desired, designed and delivered by God? You begin your relationship with Christ through revelation knowledge of him as your savior from sin and its penalty (Romans 6:23). The source of abundant life (John 10:10) is revelation of Christ. The life in Christ (zoe) is also sustained by revelation. Zoe comes from walking close to him and being led by him. Christ came to give you life through reestablishing your relationship with God. He wants you to be led by his Spirit, and to enjoy his presence (Romans 8:14).

One of the most lethal weapons used by satan to keep you from the genuine or full life in Christ is a religious spirit. Religion was in the world before Christ came but he had to come because religion was not enough to save. Of all the forces Christ battled with during his life on earth and continues to battle is religion. Religion is man’s attempt to reach God or earn God’s favor. Christianity is God reaching to man. Religion is following rules and ceremonies. Christianity is receiving and living the life of Christ. Religion is doing good works to earn acceptance by God. Christianity is being accepted in Christ by grace and therefore living a life of one accepted. 

The enemy of abundant life is religion. Zoe life comes from following revelation. Religion is following tradition. As Christians, we also must watch out for and overcome religious tendencies. When sincerely wanting to serve God a tragedy is being left with a religious activity void of the real thing. Revelation/relationship gives life and religion kills. It moves you from the hands of God to the hands of man. Jesus died at the hands of religion so that you do not die from it.

Religion is a heavy burden – Jesus said my yoke is easy (Matthew 11:29).  

Religion is bondage. Jesus said you should be free indeed. (John 8:36, Romans 8:2)

Religion is human/carnality. Zoe is being partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).

Religion is the letter of the law. Life in Christ is the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:6).

Religion is manipulation, control and intimidation. Life in Christ is a conviction (Acts 2:37).

Religion conforms from outside. Life in Christ transforms from inside (Romans 12:2)

Religion is a form of godliness with no power. Zoe receives power (2 Timothy 3:5; Acts 1:8).

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

No Greater Evidence

The Cross: No Greater Evidence

Galatians 6:14 

What do you say about the cross? If you get it wrong on this subject you cannot get it right at all. You will be lost forever or will live a defeated/miserable life. Paul  boasted in nothing else but the cross of Christ (Galatians 6:14). Paul had countless things to boast over. He could have boasted about his national privileges as a Jew. He could have boasted about his knowledge of the law. He could have boasted about his rare ministry gifts and character. He could have boasted about his sacrifices. He could have boasted about the many churches he planted and supported. Despite having many more reasons, he stopped at the cross and could see nothing else worth boasting about. He found rest in nothing else. He placed confidence in nothing else. At the cross was his joy and delight, his comfort and peace, his hope and reward, his refuge and strength, his food and medicine, and his all in all.

God has revealed himself as a holy and just God through the human conscience.  He has revealed himself as a mighty and all able God through creation. The heavens are ceaselessly telling the glory/splendor of God. It is still unknown how big and what else is contained in the universe. New discoveries come with every new invention of better telescopic equipment. Earth, our home, is located in the Milky Way galaxy, one out of 170 billion galaxies. The Milky Way alone is 100,000light years in diameter (1ly is about 9.7trillion km). Multiply this diameter by the number of galaxies to estimate the size of the known universe. Then remember that God measures this unimaginably vast universe with the span of his hand (Isaiah 40:12). Imagine how great our God is.

God who is great and awesome has not only revealed himself through the conscience and creation. He has revealed his unfailing love for humanity through the cross. The psalmist asked ‘what is man that thou art mindful of him’ (Psalm 8:3, 4). The eternal God was crucified for humanity. He emptied himself and laid down his life. God can show his love in no better way. If there were another way, he would have employed it. Love kept him on the cross. If you cannot see it there. If this cannot convince you that God cares for you, nothing else will. He came down to identify with you and gave his life to restore all that you had lost due to sin. For you, the author of life died on the cross. He was forsaken so that you never will be forsaken. The creator of the universe had no room for his birth, no place to lay his head and was hungry so that you are fully provided for. The prince of peace suffered and wept so that you enjoy peace beyond understanding (Philippians 4:6).  He was stripped of everything so that you lack nothing. Whatever he went through he did it for you so that you no longer have to go through it again. There is no better season to celebrate.

At the cross, Divinity met humanity. In the resurrection, divinity triumphed over human frailty. The resurrection of Christ is a source of sure hope (Romans 8:32). If the enemy failed to keep Christ in the grave, he cannot keep you in defeat and bondage to sin and evil works.  There is no better reason for holy living (Galatians 2:20). There is no stronger basis for unity (Ephesians 4:7). When were you last at the cross? What did you see? Jesus instructed us to visit his cross often - ‘do this in remembrance of me’ (Luke 22:19).

This Easter season, may God grant you a fresh revelation of the significance of the cross in your life as a believer.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Missing the Point

The Living Bread

John 6:35, 14-70

The days of end time revival have started but greater things are yet to come. We are entering a season of an unprecedented move of God. A time believers will no longer chase after miracles but signs and miracles will chased after them. Time to experience outstanding manifestations of God’s ability to bless his people has come. This work of God will evoke motions and emotions of excitement. Many will see opportunity for material gain, convenience and easy life as God relieves them of their burdens. There will be throngs around Jesus. The crowd of people seeking and serving Jesus will be for mixed reasons. Will God find people who can maintain the priority of a fortified foundation of faith?

Jesus multiplied five loaves and two fishes to feed over 5000 people (John 6:14f). He felt compassion for them and provided their need for food. He used the little provision of a small boy who was willing to give up his little for Jesus to feed the multitude. Twelve leftover baskets were collected. God wants to provide you with more than enough so that can have left over to be bless others with.

The crowd was so excited about the miracle that they wanted to make him king. They believed he was the one like Moses to come and deliver them from Roman rule. He was the messiah who did miracles, multiplied food like Moses who provided manna and healed their sicknesses (Deuteronomy 18:15). Jesus and the disciples withdrew from the crowd and went to the other side of the sea. The crowd however searched everywhere for him and pursued him to the other side. They sought for him, risked their lives and made sacrifices to find him (John 6:25).

Jesus challenged their motives. He said you have come because you want food not because you understand what my miracles signify. He said to them that they are looking for earthly bread that gives temporal life. He however was the living bread from heaven that gave eternal life. They wanted something material but he came to give spiritual bread (John 6:51). Unless they ate his body and drank his blood, they could not have eternal life. They missed the point – the crucified Jesus. Eating him was to abandon their selfish agenda and place all trust in him.  Instead, they turned away from Him offended. A weak relational foundation in the Lord Jesus inevitably ends in wrong response to offense. Sometimes God does not do things the way we expect. God was using the material miracles to illustrate and draw attention to the spiritual. They were so preoccupied with earthly well being, social advantage and political power that they failed where it really mattered. Thy failed the test to prove their trust.

Thank God that while the crowd deserted Jesus the disciples remained because they were following for different reasons. Peter said ‘Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life’. They also did not understand. They were also tempted to give up. They too wanted Jesus to be King. They too wanted earthly influence and prestige. Nevertheless, they saw an opportunity for recommitment to following the Lord. They thought whatever happened it was better with God. Even if there was no heaven, life with Christ is still the best life. Every other ground is sinking sand. Everything else is for a short season and is hollow. Christ is the seven ‘I ams’ in the book of John. I am the bread of life (John 6:35). I am the light of the world (John 8:12). I am the door (John 10:7). I am the good shepherd (John 10:11). I am the resurrection and life (John 11:25). I am the way the truth and the life (John 14:6). I am the true vine (John 15:1).

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

No Breakthrough Until I Arose

No Breakthrough Until I Arose

Judges 5:6-7

The nation of Israel cried to God when they were oppressed by foreign nations. God would raise a deliverer to rescue them. Before long, they would turn to other gods and forsake the living God. As a result, they were taken captive again. The passage at hand (Judges 5:6-7) records a time when the children of Israel were oppressed (Judges 4:3) by Jabin king of Canaan.  They desired, cried and waited for deliverance. They were timid and afraid.  BUT it was not until Deborah a prophetess and judge over Israel arose. She highlights to us the importance of doing something to possess victory.  In her song of praise, she makes it clear that things had been bad, village life disrupted until she arose. If she had not arisen, things would have remained the same. When God’s people arise, things cannot remain the same. As long as God’s people do not arise, evil will prevail. What is it that follows your life or family line? Is it sin, witchcraft, poverty, misfortune, etc? Unless you arise in Jesus’ name to say enough is enough curses will prevail.  Time to arise for our families, our church and ourselves has come. 

What made Deborah, a woman to arise where everyone else was in hiding?  Deborah had a revelation (Greek: “lifting of the veil”) of what God had done and was doing for Israel. ‘That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him.’ Revelation comes from asking (Ephesians 1:17), from a heart full of God’s word (Romans 10:17) and from prayerfulness. Effective prayer must leave behind a divine revelation. We have come out of a season of prayer and believe that this is our time to bring in the harvest. We are arising to do the work of evangelism. Everyone has a part to play. Paul said to Timothy ‘Do the work of an evangelist in season and out of season and make full proof of your Ministry’ (2 Timothy 4:5). Last week we saw the importance of sharing Christ its now time to act. The children of Israel would have never known what marvelous victory God had given them if they had not taken action.

Jabin the oppressor came against a nation with no army to talk about. He came armed with 900 chariots of iron. Some nations even tried to come to his aid. The Israelites were weakened physically, materially, and psychologically after 20 years of oppression. On their side, was God and faith in Him. God found means, readiness and faith from options that were least expected to deliver victory. He used women. Mighty man such as Barak refused to go to battle unless accompanied by Deborah (Judges 4:8, 9). The commander of Jabin’s army Sisera was killed by a woman, Jael, who used courage, milk and a tent peg to seal victory for Israel (Judges 4:18-2; 5:25, 26). Where there is faith, God will use ordinary things, people and instruments to accomplish his purpose. In her song, Deborah notes how God used the stars and the river to fight (Judges 5:20-21). Everything is at God’s disposal for use to our benefit when we arise.

Those who did not participate when Deborah arose missed a great opportunity to be a part of something big God accomplished.  The people of Issachar, Ephraim, Zebulun and Naphthali were committed to the full and put their lives at risk (Judges 5:18). Those of Gilead, Asher and Dan remained in ships and stayed at the seashore. The people of Reuben were undecided and hesitant.  They remained among campfires and the sheepfolds (Judges 5: 16). The people of Meroz out rightly refused (Judges 5:23). However, victory was accomplished by the willing. God moves with the movers. Lets all be a part of God’s army for the season.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Spring Up Oh Well

Spring Up Oh Well

Numbers 21:16-18

The children of Israel sang and danced in praise to God after crossing the red sea on dry ground. They had just experienced something about God. He was the great and loving Yahweh who delivers with a mighty hand. They knew something that inspired their faith. However, the faith and joy they had then was very different from the nation we see wandering in the wilderness. In the wilderness, we encounter a nation full of doubt, fear, complaining and murmuring. That is why for them to be singing, ‘Spring up oh well’ at Beer was very special and refreshing.  

Earlier God instructed Moses to lift up a brazen serpent on a wooden pole for the healing of people bitten by serpents (Numbers 21:4-9). Whoever looked received healing and life. Whoever did not look died. It separated the willing from the unwilling followers. It spoke of Christ (John 3:14-15).  Whoever believes in him shall not die. The brazen serpent refreshed divine revelation. Jesus said if you have seen me, you have seen my Father (John 14:7). Looking at the brazen altar like looking at the cross revealed a God who cares and gives life - A God who has overcome Satan and his poison of sin. The nation regained focus on God and was transformed 180 degrees from deadly complaining to faith and praise. 

At Beer, the people of Israel waited on God for water and he invited them to gather before a dry well so he would provide water for them. Instead of complaining, they trusted God and acted their faith by singing and using unusual tools, their scepters and poles, to dig the well. Often we are afraid and we murmur  because we are not patient to allow God to reveal Himself as the solution. What would have happened if in all the other times when the nation complained they had praised and acted in faith? God wants us to remember that the wonderful things he has done in the past He is faithful to do repeatedly.  

The word of God can become alive to you again. Begin to sing and act it out and miracles will happen before your eyes. Manna represented God’s word. Man shall not live on bread alone but every word that proceeds from God’s mouth. Never despise God’s word. Manna everyday – yes, but it accomplishes what you need.

God ignores threats we face, He only mentioned milk and honey and not the giants in the land (Numbers 13). The threats are nothing with our God. Maintain a faith attitude about your situations, marriage, your children, your church and future. Time has come to activate the well of your dry heart with a song of faith. Activate the wells in your life - well of your finances, the well of your health, the well of spiritual renewal and whatever you need. Look to Jesus and live. The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry (Psalm 34:15).

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Newness III: Change for a Great Reason

Innovation III: Change for a Great Reason

Genesis 12:1-3

This message is the third in a series on newness and change. As believers in Christ, you do not walk by sight but by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7). When you walk with God, positive change is inevitable. The experience of Abraham has lessons.

The point/position of change is hearing God

‘Now Yahweh said to Abram’ (Genesis 12:1a). Change begins with hearing God.  What God says is more important than any other voice because God does not change (Malachi 3:6).  In the long term, all things are variable but God is eternal and his word abides forever. Change is the only constant but ultimately God is the real constant. God reserves the right to the last change. He has the last say after all changes have run their courses and cycles.  He promises to once more shake the earth and the heavens to remove things that can be shaken so that those things which are not shaken may remain (Hebrews 12:25-28). Those who obey God receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken.  Everything shall shake except God and the people in His kingdom.  They are like trees planted by streams of water that cannot be moved, as houses built on a rock that shall not be swept away. His grace will always meet the needs in the lives of His people anywhere at any time in any situation.

When God shakes things, there is no recourse except in him. The superficial euphoria goes away and real commitment remains. The mixed crowd disappears and the genuine followers remain. Those following for bread will be stumbled and those following God for who He is will remain.  The opportunists will desert you but the true friends will be there. Pillars you lean on other than God will collapse and expose their false hope.  He is always merciful, faithful, and compassionate.

The process of change is obedience.

‘Get out of your country, and from your relatives, and from your father's house, to the land that I will show you’ (Genesis 12:1b). Change happens as you obey what God says to you. Abraham obeyed and was counted righteous and the father of those who believe outside the Law of Moses (Rom 4:11-13).  Abraham’s obedience was not always perfect. God showed great patience with Abraham as he obeyed. He will also be patient with you. He was supposed to leave his country, which he did. He was also supposed to leave his father’s house and relatives but he instead took them with him. It took a while for him to leave his father and Lot.  He also for a considerable time settled in Haran until his father died there. Later he sought a son through Hagar (Genesis 16) instead of waiting for God’s promise. In another instance, out of fear he lied to king Abimelech that Sarah was only  his sister and not also his wife (Genesis 20:11).  Nevertheless, God dealt favorably with him because he saw that his heart was after Him. Abraham obeyed the command to leave his country (Hebrews 11:8). He trusted God for an heir even when Sarah was beyond childbearing age and was willing to offer the son in obedience to God. He also gave tithes to Melchizedec and trusted in God wholly (Genesis 14:23; 15:1). As a result, he reached the land God promised and obtained a great name and a great nation. 

The power of change is greatness

‘I will make of you a great nation. I will bless you, and make your name great’ (Genesis 12:2). The measure of significance of the change is in line with that of God’s greatness. God is thinking big about you. His dream is higher than your own. Nothing is impossible with Him. God promised Abraham his presence and ability.  The deal was obedience on Abraham’s part and God would do the rest – ‘I will show you, I will make you, I will bless you.’  When God begins to bless, the human response in the process is gratitude. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Psalm 100:4; 9:1-2; 1 Chronicle 16:34-35).

 The purpose of change is to become a blessing

‘You will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you. In you will all of the families of the earth be blessed’ (Genesis 12:3).  Even when obedience to God requires change, how you handle relationships matters (Galatians 5:22-23). In the process and product of change, God’s desire is to bless you so that you become a blessing to others. The challenge of an innovator or change agent is not only to be convinced of the change but also to communicate effectively to others the benefit of the change. An innovator like a prophet can be lonely because of seeing things that others cannot see yet.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

Ground and First Floors Sunset Bay Building,

204B Bram Fischer drive,

Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Newness II: Change with Integrity

Newness II: Change with Integrity

Genesis 11:31 – 12:2

When you start something new such as a new day, new relationship or new challenge you can enjoy newness of God's mercies and loving kindnesses. These unfailing mercies are also available to you as you plan your life (Lamentation 3:22-25). The difference you want to make in your life situation that has been elusive in the past could be achieved if you do something new. However, not all change is beneficial. The following are four building blocks of beneficial change.

The Necessity of Change. Abraham heard God and his station and mission in life changed (Genesis 12:1-2). You cannot stay where you are and grow and go with God. Change is will happen in your life and organization because of obeying God. If you are hearing God, something will change. Leaving something is a condition for walking with God.

Change will happen all around you whether you like it or not. If you do not change, you will soon be irrelevant. Change is necessary because of the dream you have. What stands between you and the dream of your life and vision of your enterprise is not just a chronological gap but also a transformation gap. Between now and then you have to transform to fit the dream. If you are taking life lessons to heart, you will not fail to change to bring out your best. Change is also necessary because you are searching what works best. You are disturbed when activity no longer equals productivity. Sustaining productivity and growth in a changing environment implies change on your part.

The Integrity of Change. God said to Abraham you are going to a place I will show you (Genesis 12:1). Before one embarks on change, one must acknowledge that some things do not change. Not all new ideas are good ideas. The leadership of God was a given in the change in Abraham’s life.  Before you effect change, identify the things that must remain unchanged. They serve as an anchor and campus for navigating the maze of change possibilities. When the choices are complex and the climate is foggy, you want something that does not change to turn to. God's timeless values and principles provide that orientation in life. Water remains as such even if poured into containers of varied shapes. You also should introduce change without mortifying yourself by compromising your identity.

The Creativity of Change. God told Abraham things He would do - I will make you, I will bless you and I will bless through you (Genesis 12:2-3). Creation is something God does to bring about things that do not exist into being. The Bible assertion that we bear the image of such a God, is a vivid portrayal of the power of human potential (Genesis 2:26). Particularly for His children through faith in Christ, they have the ability not just to generate creative ideas but also to translate them to real solutions.

The Sensitivity of Change.  Abraham had to deal with people like his family, father and nephew (Genesis 11:31-32). Change will affect you and those around you. The successful implementation of change often depends on the support of certain people, for example your spouse. Do something to show affected people the benefit of the change.