In Jesus' Hands Day 19

Jesus Heals - 30 Days In Jesus' Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. Over the next 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some of long standing (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, soul, mind and body.

Getting On With Life

It's Saturday, almost the end of an unusually busy week, not forgetting this 30 day project Jesus has me in. Every day I spend long quiet times with our Lord, firstly to see what He has to say today, secondly to see how I am in Him and thirdly to ask Him to give an outline and then guide me in writing this daily piece for PsalmsOfJohn.com. Also I attend Christian meetings where I am part of what Jesus is doing.

I am a house husband, Trish's husband, and father to our kids, our in-law daughters and our grandchildren. It is good to report that our van can be fixed in a few weeks when the parts come; it took a morning to set this up. Kate turned 25 during the week and we celebrated beautifully. She also has a throat infection so I took her to the doctor for antibiotics. She suggested that I stay in the car while she went in. This definitely seemed to be the right way to handle it for a guy who is avoiding medical people for 30 days. She is now recovering, praise Jesus.

So, this morning it was lovely to sit up in bed with Trish and catch up with one another. She is a teacher in a new school; they are all run off their feet because so much is being developed. Trish gets very tired. This is her mission field so it is a blessing that she's there. We also talked about me and what Jesus is doing in us, our whole family. It is clear that this project is affecting us all. Things are being broken open in the spiritual realm.

Walking It The Dust Of Our Rabbi?

In no way is there any glory for me in this. This is as it should be. Jesus never sought glory. My reading of the Bible shows that He, and His disciples, led very simple lives. In those days, disciples were said to walk in the dust of their rabbi. Jesus' team walked day after day, in the blazing sun, often to escape persecution, and always to do the Father's will, which ultimately led to the Cross:

(John 4:34) Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me, and to accomplish his work".

In the years after Jesus was glorified, the disciples became apostles of Jesus' new Church. They continued to be ridiculed and persecuted:

(Acts 7:59) They stoned Stephen as he called out, saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!"

(2 Corinthians 11:23-27) [Paul wrote] "Are they servants of Christ? I am more so; in labours more abundantly, in prisons more abundantly, in stripes above measure, in deaths often. Five times from the Jews I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I suffered shipwreck. I have been a night and a day in the deep. I have been in travels often, perils of rivers, perils of robbers, perils from my countrymen, perils from the Gentiles, perils in the city, perils in the wilderness, perils in the sea, perils among false brothers; in labour and travail, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, and in cold and nakedness".

Did Paul grumble? No, he showed the kind of life for a Christian to live. Did he work? Yes, very hard. Wherever he was he worked as an apostle for Jesus and earned his living as a tent-maker. After his spectacular conversion, Paul lived a "sold out" life for Jesus and Jesus' Church. Rather than whinge and complain, Paul was obedient to his Lord and his calling, he persevered:

(2 Corinthians 11:28) "Besides everything else, there is that which presses on me daily, concern for all the churches".

Can I, John, do this 30 days? Yes. Praise you Jesus. You have so amazingly brought me this far. And Trish too. Both of us shoulder to shoulder, mostly doing different things, not in lock-step but two individuals, in tandem, working and growing together. Loving and beloved of Jesus. Prospering in our family, in our relationships, in our work, in our Christian walk.

Favourite Bible Verses

(Psalm 36:7)
How precious O Lord is your unfailing love!
We find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
We feast on the abundance of your house;
and drink from the river of your delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.

Praise Jesus
Amen.

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 19" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

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Thank You Jesus.

In Jesus' Hands Day 18

Jesus Heals - 30 Days In Jesus' Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. Over the next 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some of long standing (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, soul, mind and body.

Dreams

The last three mornings I was aware as I woke that I had just been dreaming. Dreams are good, they are part of the Lord's prophetic spiritual gifting; God uses dreams to show us things in the spiritual realm.

The dreams on each of the three mornings had some things in common:

a)  They all had something to do with healing people or freeing them from oppression, difficulty, or pain.

b)  They all had gold in their colour scheme. In one a person's face was a gold colour; it was covered with God's glory as the person was being healed. In another the whole area was lit with a golden glow.

c)  None of the dreams made sense in a "computer programmer" kind of way (I used to be a computer programmer and tend to be logical and cause-and-effect). Instead, there was a sense of awe as Jesus worked many wondrous healings, everyone in the dreams was healed.

d)  The bits of dreams I can remember were from the last of a set of similar dreams in the times before I awoke.

What Are You Saying Jesus?

I believe that our Lord is saying (if I might paraphrase from my impressions):

A)  "John, you have been saying that 'testimony is what I do!' Do you think that I will respond to this by giving you a stone or a snake (Matthew 7:9-10)? I love and value and honour testimony:

(Revelation 12:11)  They overcame him [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. They did not love their life, even unto death".

B)  "You have asked for healings. Do you think I can love you as much as I do and not respond to your request?"

C)  "I heal. In Scripture I did not use one method to heal, rather I used a myriad of different ways. You cannot second guess my actions".

D)  "Recently I have had two trustworthy men of God give you prophetic words. They spoke my truth. You will soon see great change in your life, your work, and in your health".

I have been saying that it seems that nothing is happening on this 30-Days project, but I know that this is not really true; God never stops working. Some Jews were persecuting Jesus for working on the Sabbath, Jesus responded:

(John 5:17) My Father works even until now, and I work.

Every minute we breath it is because Jesus sustains our breathing (Colossians 1:17), every day babies are born, people pray, and emergency teams rescue. God works even now, this very minute.

Favourite Bible Verses

(Joel 2:28) "And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions".

(1 Corinthians 14:1,3) "Follow after love, and earnestly desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy . . he who prophesies speaks to people for their edification, exhortation, and consolation".

Some Good News About Dreams

If dreams are in colour and they lift up, encourage, or edify, they are from Jesus.

If, however, they are horror filled, scary, or in black and white, they are from Satan. He is trying to deceive, kill, destroy, fill with fear, or distract you (John 10:10); it seems that Satan is not too adept with colour so he's often easy to detect.

We know that:

(2 Timothy 1:7) "God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind".

Jesus is Head of His Church. With His blood He has bought each one of us. He is every part of our armour. He protects and shields us. In Ephesians 6:13-17, the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the preparation of the Good News of peace (the Gospel), the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit are all the person Christ Jesus:

(Psalm 3:3-4) "But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts up my head. I cry to the Lord with my voice, and He answers me out of His holy hill. Selah (measure and reflect upon what has been said)".

Praise Jesus
Amen.

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 18" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

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Thank You Jesus.

In Jesus' Hands Day 17

Testimony - Jesus Heals - 30 Days In Jesus' Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. Over the next 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some of long standing (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, soul, mind and body.

Day 17 - How Is It Going?

It feels like nothing. Nothing seems to be going on. Nothing in my body or my health seems to be improved, or even different. Probably this is good; in no obvious way am I distressed or sick by not taking all my medications.

I feel very much on my own. I've never known anyone else who has felt called to come out from under all their medical care.

I have never felt to tell about this project to my friends or my Christian brothers and sisters. Only my family living here, and my pastors, know about it. And you also, dear reader. There are just a tiny few of you, in various parts of the world, who access this web-site. Thank you for your prayers.

So. Alone. Yet never without Jesus. Always in the embrace of my family.

Life Changing

At least once every day I think of Moses, probably because his prophetic act was seemingly so useless, he was to stretch out his hand over the sea. But this was what God wanted so that He would part the sea and progress His Exodus plan. God chose Moses and was with him. I am not generally a Moses person. Abraham is a great hero of mine. And David. And Paul in the New Testament, he obeyed and the Lord explosively changed his life. I really love John, "the disciple that Jesus loved". John was quiet and steady, he thought things through, he spent time with Jesus and Holy Spirit and got to the essence of "What are you saying lord? What are you doing?" But these days, Moses is right there. Here with me.

Jesus And Abba Daddy

After my third cancer operation, (a very serious affair), I was sitting on my hospital bed waiting to be picked up to come home, I knew that people would ask how it all went. I prayed and Jesus made it plain: "are you not aware how closely our Father is watching over you in all this?" I realised that I was aware. Thoroughly surrounded and embraced by God's love!

Looking back, I can see that that is about the time that I began to find real intimacy, first with Jesus, then some time later with Father God, Abba. I am His precious son.

I am now able to understand the glory of Song of Solomon. The Scriptures about Christians and the Church being Jesus' betrothed are a significant feature of the Bible. Song of Solomon is about Jesus marrying His beloved, the Church. That's me. Jesus really loves me, we are betrothed, and He is working towards our wedding day. Glory.

Truthfully, I don't care about the rapture and all the pre-millennial and post-millennial talk (which I am not sure I understand). My Father has a crown for me. I'm getting married. I will have Jesus' name written on my thigh: "The Lord's".

Favourite Bible Verses:

(Ephesians 1:17-19) that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of the strength of His might.

We Christians have such an awesome future. Our present is pregnant with life and meaning. This is because we are included. We are sons or daughters and are fully in God's inheritance:

(1 Peter 1:3-4) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy became our Father again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that doesn't fade away, reserved in Heaven for you.

Even in Heaven we can participate with Jesus in his work as evangelist:

(Revelation 22:17) The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" He who hears, let him say, "Come!" He who is thirsty, let him come. He who desires, let him freely take the water of life.

Praise Jesus
Amen.

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Thank You Jesus.

In Jesus' Hands Day 16

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. For 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some of long standing (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, mind, soul and body.

Sin?

Am I sick because of sin? My sin? Another person's sin?

No.

For years I was plagued with doubts about my righteousness because I could not get past all my sin. Some sin I could get past. Not all. Whenever I thought I was making progress I would recognise another sin in my life; something which I had accepted as OK until just now. My burden just got heavier; my worthiness decreased.

No matter how hard I watched myself, how quick I was to seek forgiveness and repent for every wrongdoing, all day, every day, I still always saw myself as "clothed in filthy rags" (Zechariah 3:3-4). I wasn't even very good at watching myself and being "quick to repent". Every day it was clear that Jesus' kind of righteousness was beyond me. I know how Martin Luther felt.

Eventually I read "The Normal Christian Life" (a study of Romans) and saw, in a nutshell, what many lovely people had been trying to teach me for years.

I am fully righteous. All my righteousness is in Christ Jesus. It always was, is, and always will be. In Jesus alone. I am justified and I am righteous. None of my righteousness can ever be attributed to me.

None.

I'm With Jesus

We get accused of sin, constantly. There are plenty who will cast arrows at us all day every day. (Just try working in an office where they all know you are Christian, and you're the only one!)

Satan is the great accuser:

(Revelation 12:10) "the accuser of our brothers [and us too], he accuses them before our God day and night".

Satan is a thief, his great self-appointed work is to:

(John 10:10) "steal, kill, and destroy. I, [Jesus], came that you may have life, and have it to the full".

A Christian's Response To Accusations Of Sin

Your response can be: "I'm with Jesus, so back off. If you want to talk about my sin, you'll have to speak with Jesus. He took all my sin to the Cross (2 Corinthians 5:21) and there He paid for it, (1 Peter 2:24) .. Jesus defeated Satan, and He defeated death (2 Timothy 1:10). It is written, 'I am righteous in Christ alone' (Romans 3:21-26). I belong to Jesus".

Certainly, live clean. Seek forgiveness from sin. Repent. But do not be weighed down by it.

Favourite Bible Varses:

(John 17:9-11) "I pray for them. I don't pray for the world, but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. All things that are mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them through your name which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are".

(Matthew 28:20) "and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world".

A Christian's Response (Again: This Time With Scriptures In Full)

Your response can be: "I'm with Jesus, so back off Satan. If you want to talk about my sin, you'll have to speak with Jesus. He took all my sin to the Cross:

(2 Corinthians 5:21) God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

There He paid for my sin:

(1 Peter 2:24) He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.

Jesus defeated Satan, and He defeated death:

(2 Timothy 1:10) it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has defeated death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

It is written that I am fully justified and am righteous in Christ alone:

(Romans 3:21-26) "But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished - he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus".

I belong to Jesus.

More along these lines soon.

Praise Jesus.
Amen.

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Thank You Jesus.

In Jesus' Hands Day 15

My Testimony - 30 Days In Jesus' Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. For 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some of long standing (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, mind, soul and body.

Compelling Word

Tuesday healing meeting today. A simple yet profound worship time, just a keyboard and our voices joining with Jesus in offering praise and glory to our Father on high.

A pastor from Uganda spoke. The Ugandan people are clawing their way back from decades of looting, rape and carnage of the Idi Amin regime. Jesus is raising up Christians who have counted the cost and are prepared to put everything into ministry for Jesus so that millions can rise from devastation to know fullness of life in Him:

(John 10:10) "The thief only comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it to the full".

Just as Jesus was anointed by Father God for His life's work:

(Luke 4:18-19) "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to proclaim release to the captives, recovering of sight to the blind, to deliver those who are crushed, and to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord".

So we are anointed for the work our Lord has planned for us: this may not be work for which we seem fitted. Jesus is head of the church, He can fit any of us for any role He chooses. Life and ministry are often hard. Hard is good. These past days I have often pondered perseverance. Hard brings perseverance. Perseverance is good:

(Romans 5:3-4) Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering brings perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.

Growing Me

Praise Jesus that He grows the fruit of the Spirit in me; I cannot live life for Him on my own.

So, thank you Jesus that you have placed me into this 30 day project, this work, to grow me into what you want me to be for this time and place; into "the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:13).

Favourite Bible Verses:

(John 17:23-26) "I in them, and you in me, that they may be perfected into one; that the world may know that you sent me, and loved them, even as you loved me. Father, I desire that they also whom you have given me be with me where I am, that they may see my glory, which you have given me, for you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world hasn't known you, but I knew you; and these knew that you sent me. I made known to them your name, and will make it known; that the love with which you loved me may be in them, and I in them".

2 Peter 1:2-4 Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, seeing that his divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and virtue; by which he has granted to us his precious and exceedingly great promises; that through these you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.

Praise Jesus. Amen

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 15" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

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Blessings.

In Jesus' Hands Day 14

Testimony - Jesus Heals - 30 Days In His Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. For 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some long standing (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, mind, soul and body.

The Lord made it clear that I was to post a daily diary-like comment to PsalmsOfJohn.com, this web-site, which He led me to establish on 17th June.

Two Weeks Along - Any Progress?

So, the fourteenth day, tomorrow we'll be half way through this project. I am totally amazed to be doing this. To conceive or plan anything so outrageous is so beyond me! But not for Jesus.

In today's church we are taught to ask "Lord, what are you saying? What are you doing?"

The ancient Israelites were entirely satisfied that it was God Himself who spoke and gave the Law to Moses:
(Deuteronomy 5:22) "These words [of the Law] Yahweh spoke to all your assembly on the mountain out of the midst of the fire, of the cloud, and of the thick darkness, with a great voice: and he added no more. He wrote them on two tables of stone, and gave them to me".

Through the centuries the Lord has spoken; He speaks today through His Word, the Bible, and also prophetically (1 Corinthians 14:1,3) to those with ears to hear (Mark 4:22-23). By His Spirit, Jesus speaks to every pastor and teacher who asks: "Lord, what shall I bring to my people this week in my sermon / my teaching?"

Daily I ask: "Lord, what are you saying? What are you doing?"

Jesus is saying that He loves me. There are occasions in life when you know that you are the centre of someone's love. Every day Jesus is telling me that He has extravagant love towards me, a rushing flow of love (John 1:16).

As for what He's doing; Jesus is leading me into times of ministry and prayer for others, something I often feel too shy or inadequate to do. Every day He is guiding me in the subject matter and even the content for that day's PsalmsOfJohn.com posting. This is very humbling. Also intimate and exciting. Encouraging too.

I look for signs of change in my body. Because I have had so much sickness for so long I am looking for dramatic signs. Over the years there have been many little signs ..

When Jesus did a preventative strike against lung cancer in me, and when He healed me from smoking and from strong drink, I knew something amazing had happened. I'm looking to give away my reading and distance glasses, that would be unusual in a person as old as me. But not impossible (Matthew 19:26). I am asking for significant healings in every area of my body and my person.

So far there's not much to see except the wonder of daily fellowship:

(2 Corinthians 13:14) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen.

The Future?

What is to come? Only God knows. Jesus is the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end, but only the Father knows the hour and the day that certain things will happen. So it's God who knows; I'm ready to continue on, and see as He unfolds what He will unfold.

Our Very Fabric

For years, when things just seemed to be stuck on "mediocre" for me, people used to say that they admired my perseverance. I remember being grateful for their loving observation. Jesus' Word says that persistence and perseverance are good; they build character. Character is comprised of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, usually these are hard won!

(Galatians 5:22-23) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Favourite Bible Verses:

(Romans 5:3-5) Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering works perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope: and hope doesn't disappoint us, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

(Colossians 3:12) Put on therefore, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance.

(Revelation 2:3) You have perseverance and have endured for my name's sake, and have not grown weary.

Praise Jesus. Amen.

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 14" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

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Blessings.

In Jesus' Hands Day 13

My Testimony - 30 Days In Jesus' Healing Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. For 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some long lived (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals (Mark 16:18). I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and sound of spirit, mind, soul and body.

A Glorious Day

Today started hard. About 1:00AM I got some very bad news from our 3rd son which will cost significantly in time and money (no one was hurt). Didn't sleep much.

Today our team ran a fundraiser Indian Feast for the orphanage and pastors we support in India. This morning the time just vanished, imploded. Impatience and short tempers at our house. There was a crash on the freeway and I was nail-bitingly almost late. Then at the café everyone was looking to me to be supervisor despite my not knowing anything. So much to do and so few answers! There came a point where I was immobilised, my whole system jangling; I got my water, found a quiet corner and prayed: Lord I can't do this. Come please, bring your peace. I sat quietly for 15 minutes.

What a great night we had. Seventy four people bought tickets for the feast, and bought auction items, and gave money gifts. Those orphans and pastors will be so blessed. The fellowship among the diners and our team was wonderful, Jesus was present in the conversations and in the fun. It was a great time of multiplication. And here I am, 1:30AM, ready at last to post this onto PsalmsOfJohn.com for Jesus. Soon to bed.

A Big Question From Day 7

Is my stopping all my medications a work? Is it a challenge to God? Am I testing Him?
(Matthew 4:7) Jesus said to Satan, "It is written, 'You shall not test the Lord, your God'".

I've been pondering this question for nearly two weeks. Am I testing you Lord? Is mine an acceptable request?

Once I was settled in my heart that I was not testing my God, I did some formal study by looking in trusted commentaries and through the scriptural references and footnotes.

First, I asked my heart: "Heart, where are you? Are you still inclined towards the Lord? Is your testimony still to the honour and praise of Jesus? Is God in this? Did He speak into your desire to do this project?"

Yes. No hesitation. The Lord always looks at the heart.

(Psalm 22:22) I will declare your name to my brothers (and sisters). In the midst of the assembly, I will praise you.

Testimony is what I do. Good days and hard days, when feeling ebullient and when feeling rotten, I give testimony to the work and power and glory and grace of God in the world in our time.

It sounds then as though I am not testing Him. Rather, I am asking my Abba Daddy for something which is very near to my heart, very important in my life and also part of what He loves to give. And I am led by Him. I am not being a spoiled brat, or precocious, or greedy.

The learned scholars talk about the kind of testing as seen in Matthew 4:7 as being frivolous, pushy, forward.

A Stream of Scripture

Here is a sequence of scriptural references which I believe show clearly what kind of request it is that will test God:

•  (Matthew 4:7)   Satan is trying to tempt Jesus (who would not be tempted).
•  (Deuteronomy 6:16)  Fear the Lord your God . .
•  (Exodus 17:2)  They quarreled with Moses . . and they grumbled against him.
•  (Psalm 78:18)  They tempted God in their heart by promoting their desires.
•  (Psalm 78:41)  They tempted God, and provoked the Holy One of Israel.
•  (Psalm 106:14)  They didn't wait for God's counsel, but gave in to craving in the desert, He sent leanness into their soul.
•  (1 Corinthians 10:9)  Do not willfully sin, neither grumble.

There. Clear enough?

This is definitely a relief.

Two Things Of Which I Was Always Certain

1.  My righteousness will never be even slightly tarnished. All my righteousness is in Christ Jesus. It is not something I can earn, or even lose.

(Philippians 1:11) [You are] filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

2.  If I come to the conclusion that I am testing God, then as soon as I repent and seek His forgiveness, He will immediately forgive me.

Glory be . . Thank you Jesus!


Favourite Bible Verses:

(Revelation 12:11 NIV)  They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.

These words have never before now had so much meaning for me!

(Revelation 19:10 NIV) ". . worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy"

Praise Jesus.
Amen.

• Permalink to web page

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 13" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/75c7oGP8Kn79HDzVG52pvH

Blessings.

In Jesus' Hands Day 12

Jesus Heals - 30 Days in His Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. For 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some long lived (1 Peter 2:24). I am sick of being sick. I feel led to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, nor see any health professionals. I believe I'll become healthy, rested, alert, mobile, vigorous and of sound spirit, mind, soul and body.

Jesus' Grace Towards Me

(John 1:16 NASB) For of his fullness we all received, and grace upon grace.

My translation: (John 1:16) "Every one of us has abundantly received the free gift of grace, and grace added to grace like waves coming onto the sea shore. Grace, so great a gift, so rich, so precious; we have received no less than grace; this is a gift to be spoken of with awe. Grace comes from Jesus' inexhaustible fullness (from Him who is all in all (Ephesians 1:23)). Jesus pours out blessing because He wants to. This is what He does. This is Jesus' witness in the world. God is love (1 John 4:8)".

A Long Walk

We talk of being on our Christian "walk". This is a good word because it implies movement and makes clear that we are on our way to a place which is not here. This is true for me. It is such a relief and a blessing that I'm no longer where I was! In the 60s, 70, and 80s, before I met Trish and then Jesus, I was pretty hedonistic. Definitely a sinner. By the time I fell head over heels for Trish I'd about had enough of that life, and saw marriage, kids, and an interesting job as being good things to pursue; monogamous marriage, with love, commitment and meaning. Really, I had no idea how I could ever adapt to such a life, but from what I had seen I knew that these were good things.

Soon after we married, Trish encountered Jesus through some loving and fulfilled Christian women. Intercessors. Some little time later He also drew me to Himself. I wanted to change my life to be worthy of His interest and love.

Well, talk about hard! Did you ever try to do this? You'll know what I mean. It's much like making wine out of water; there are so many essential ingredients that you just do not have. Besides, wine has those subtle "extras" that make one wine better than another. Such a struggle, such feelings of inadequacy . .

Now, more than 25 years later, I see Jesus' plans for me, for Trish, our marriage, our family, and His Kingdom, all working out. There was never no progress. But it was always Jesus' progress. It is His plan, He equips and makes ready in His own time. We grow in Jesus by His grace. I have been growing, and I grow still.

Jesus Speaks

A while ago a lovely older man of God spoke to me: he told me that Our Lord was opening a door for me, and that I was to study grace, specifically "grace upon grace".

Then the knee which I had believed to have been miraculously healed mushroomed in size and became very painful. I began to limp again. What I had often testified as my "miracle knee" turned out to be a fairly typical worn and arthritic joint. (see In Jesus Hands: Day 5). This was devastating to me.

Where to from here? There is only one place. Into the arms of Jesus. Prayer, meditating on His Word. Seeking Him.

Now here I am. Being fully restored? I believe so. I have now put my whole trust in Jesus.

Favourite Bible Verses:

(John 1:16) For of his fullness we all received, and grace upon grace.

(1 Corinthians 13:13) But now faith, hope, and love remain - these three. The greatest of these is love.

(1 John 4:10) In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Praise Jesus.

Amen.

• Permalink to web page

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 12" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0odM8j4ReIiSP12cfuKq5z

Blessings.

In Jesus' Hands Day 11

Jesus Heals - 30 Days in His Hands

On 28th September 2010 I threw myself into Jesus' hands. For 30 days I'm trusting that Jesus will fully heal me of all illnesses and diseases, some long lived (1 Peter 2:24). I plan to take none of the 6 medications prescribed for me, and will not see any health professionals. I am sick of being sick. I expect to become healthy, rested, alert, mobile and vigorous, with no physical complaints or allergies.

God Loves Faith
Faith is a big thing with Christians. God loves faith. There are so many great faith examples in the Bible; and I am sure all of us know of exciting workings of faith among our family, friends or church community.

Still, I find it a confusing and sometimes painful subject. I was out of work for years despite much prayer of faith, this was just after I had excelled in the best work of my career! I have been bothered by an increasing number of illnesses for decades - more vast amounts of faith filled prayer, desperate prayer, exhausted prayer.

In our family we have definitely seen miracles of faith, and we've seen miracles which can only be described as grace because they were a surprise. But we have believed our wonderful God for stuff which just didn't happen. There are many with a similar testimony.

Praise the Lord that He helps us persevere.

Christians are in the New Covenant. Jesus dwells in us in love, compassion and power. He speaks through His Bible. He also speaks into our hearts with His "now" Word, which is always confirmed by witnesses and by Scripture.

So what's missing in my understanding? Could it simply be timing? Could it be that Jesus wants us to reach a level of spiritual maturity before He releases particular parts of His plan for our lives?

God's Man For That Hour
Think about Moses. It must have been so scary for Israel with all Pharaoh’s chariots and army coming down on them with murder in their hearts (Exodus 14). The Israelite people were stuck on the sea shore, exposed and vulnerable. The Lord was on Israel's side; God was with them in the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire to guide and protect them. God spoke to Moses so that he would know what to expect and what to do, God told him that Israel would see deliverance.

Faith in Prophetic Action
Pharaoh’s army drew closer and the people thought that their faith in the Lord was surely mistaken. Then the Lord told Moses of the prophetic act which would activate God's mighty power and release that which the He already had planned. Moses stretched out his hand over the sea which parted in an unprecedented and amazingly creative miracle.

The world still talks about this mighty deliverance of a whole nation. Under the Old Covenant the Lord protected and richly blessed His Covenant people.

Jesus' Friends at Bethany
Do you identify with Lazarus' sisters, Martha and Mary? They were very close friends with Jesus, yet He did not come and act to prevent their brother's death (John 11). They were grieving when Jesus finally arrived. They knew that Jesus could have healed Lazarus and prevented his death. Yet, because they fully recognised Jesus' authority and His relationship with His Father, they accepted the death. They were so grief stricken that Jesus Himself burst into tears.

Beyond Their Faith
It was only then, when everyone was completely beyond hope (John 11:42), that Jesus proclaimed His closeness to Father God: "I know that you always listen to me . . " and commanded: "Lazarus, come out!"

We see here another unprecedented and amazingly creative miracle. Even though this was still in Old Covenant time, Jesus showed the nature of the New Covenant where the presence and power of Christ in the believer releases the Lord's extravagant glory.

Prophetic?
I do not think my faith is greater today than it was, say, a year ago. Yet today I am not taking medication and not seeing doctors. I believe that my lovely Lord Jesus led me into this.

So is this my Holy Spirit led prophetic act? Not taking medication in the same way healthy people do not? Not seeing doctors in the same way healthy people do not? Getting about and exercising as though I have full mobility and healthy cartilages?

Yes, I believe so. Thank you Jesus.

Favourite Bible Verses:

(Exodus 23:20) "Behold, I send an angel before you, to keep you by the way, and to bring you into the place which I have prepared".

Yes.

(Jeremiah 32:17) "Ah Almighty God! Behold, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm; there is nothing too hard for you".

Yes.

(Ephesians 3:20 NIV) "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen".

Yes.

Praise Jesus.
Amen.

• Permalink to web page
https://www.psalmsofjohn.com/2010/10/in-jesus-hands-day-11.html

"In Jesus' Hands: Day 11" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn
• Public link to podcast
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0XzW3gQkG2mHkxCVvJNbMr

Blessings.

In Jesus' Hands Day 10

30 Days In Jesus' Hands - My Testimony

Today is the tenth day of this project. When I began writing these daily posts I thought I would be reporting about my health and rejoicing over all the positive changes as they happen.

Apart from telling about my "miracle knee", and its disappointing loss of credibility as an object of testimony, I've not really spoken of my health.

It has become clear to me that this whole project has little to do with my health. It has everything to do with Jesus.

We are told that Jesus is everything for us: (NIV verses rendered by me):

•  God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3)
•  Father God chose us in Jesus to be holy and blameless in His sight (Ephesians 1:4)
•  Father God predestined us to be adopted as His children through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:5)
•  Father God has freely given us His glorious grace in [Jesus], the One He loves (Ephesians 1:6)
•  In Jesus we have redemption and forgiveness of sins through Jesus' blood (Ephesians 1:7)
•  Redemption continually flows to us in the riches of God's abundant grace (Ephesians 1:8)
•  Father God has made known to us the mystery of his will, which he purposed in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:9)
•  Father God will effect His Will when the times have come, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Jesus (Ephesians 1:10).

•  Jesus is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15)
•  By Jesus, and for him, all things were created (Colossians 1:16)
•  In Jesus all things hold together (Colossians 1:17)
•  Jesus is the head of the body, the church, and has the supremacy in everything (Colossians 1:18)
• God is pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Jesus (Colossians 1:19)
•  Jesus reconciles all things to himself, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross (Colossians 1:20).

Our Father's great plan even has Jesus as our bridegroom to be. He is willing, even excited at this prospect. His suffering and death was for us so that these things could come to pass.

This bridegroom thing is very important to me. I know something of being both bridegroom and husband. Trish and I have been married for thirty years. This has not all been plain sailing, but over all it has been beautiful, productive, and packed with joy. We have overcome troubles by linking up with Jesus, into a three strand cord which can not easily be broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12). Jesus has bonded us ever closer and stronger.

Favourite Scriptures:
Song of Solomon shows, in tender beauty, how we, Jesus' Christian people, are the beloved of Christ:
(Song of Solomon 2:3-6 NIV)
Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest
is my lover among the young men.
I delight to sit in his shade,
and his fruit is sweet to my taste.
He has taken me to the banquet hall,
and his banner over me is love.
Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples,
for I am faint with love.
His left arm is under my head,
and his right arm embraces me.

I am faint with love. He is with me, close, loving.

Who God Is
So now, on this tenth day, I realise that what is at stake here is not my health issues, but who God is.

I believe that the only faith I can have must be based entirely on what I know to be true.

Faith
All today’s Scriptures show me God as He is. I can depend on them.

So, I can depend on Him!

To me this is very clear. God is who He says He is! Today and into the future.

(Hebrews 11:1) Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

Yes.

Praise Jesus.
Amen.

• Permalink to web page

https://www.psalmsofjohn.com/2010/10/in-jesus-hands-day-10.html

"In Jesus' Hands: Day 10" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/38lM2Z8OBhbYsD8rmP6LaW

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 9

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

Confidence grows. Scripture tells us that Jesus is always with us, but, being human, we often do not feel that He is near. Well, my awareness of His loving presence is escalating. It is this grateful awareness which brings the confidence. It is like seeing baby chicks around their mother hen. They know that their mum is watching every second, is always ready with a loving beak or a gentle brrrrk, brrrrk, to bring them back into safety. This is how I am. This is beyond feeling.

A couple of nights ago I finished my daily report and posted it to PsalmsOfJohn.com. After considerable tidying up and fussing to get just the right words I figured it was as good as I could get it without reviewing it over several days. Each post is committed to its own day.

I slept well and woke with Jesus in my heart and the knowledge that I'm still alive; (there is probably a distinct possibility that I could wake up dead, seeing as I just stopped my medications, am doing no tests on myself, and seeing no medical people).

My very next thought was the sentence I had wanted but could not find the previous night. In my mind's eye I could clearly see every word, even the full stop. Immediately I went and updated the posting. The Lord Jesus Christ is with me! Yes? Yes. That was so exciting. I've never before tried to write or diary daily, and am sure that it would not be do-able without Jesus.

Then, this morning, I woke knowing that Jesus is Lord, and straight away I spoke "I feel well". This is the most significant thing I can feel right now. Here we are, day 9 of this project. Not suffering withdrawal symptoms from the drugs I'm not taking. Not feeling giddy or in pain of faint from crazy blood sugar levels or wild heart failure. "I feel well". So today, again, I have this certain hope that God is present with me in Christ, my Mother hen, my Abba Dad.

Favourite Bible Verses:

(Psalm 121 NIV)
I lift up my eyes to the hills -
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip -
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you -
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm -
he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

(Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Praise Jesus,
Amen.

• Permalink to web page

https://www.psalmsofjohn.com/2010/10/in-jesus-hands-day-9.html

"In Jesus' Hands: Day 9" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2oRtJ1EaBsSv9OGcICje4S

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 8

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

Jesus came and took Trish and I to Himself during the Charismatic Renewal in the 1980s. What an exciting time to learn where life and ultimate security came from. We learned that prayer is foundational in the life of Jesus' people and became intercessors. We learned to hear from the Lord, and share His Word with others. We learned to pray for the sick and expect to see deliverances and healings. 

We also learned that the people of the Kingdom of Light are still under constant savage attack from the kingdom of darkness, that warfare is a reality for Christians.

In the 25 years that I've been Christian I have often felt that I knew less and less of what I seemed to need and often felt stuck. When asked, I would say that I was a "committed" Christian. I now think that my commitment was simply perseverance; (Romans 5:3-4) Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering works perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.

Because I knew that Christian hope is a certain hope, I knew that ultimately I would see some of Jesus' victory and know something of being the head and not the tail (Deuteronomy 28:13-14) The Lord will make you the head, and not the tail ..

One Thing Jesus Will Not Do

A few years ago a beloved brother and teacher of prophetic gifting (1 Corinthians 12:1-3) took me aside and leaned towards me. You know how this works, the person has something big to say and wants you to know that they have been thinking and praying about this moment for a while. My paraphrase of what he said: "John, Jesus is Lord. All our salvation, our justification and righteousness come from Him, it is Jesus who grows us in sanctification. It is Jesus who paid for us and we belong to Him. It is clear from your life that you already know this. But there is one thing Jesus will not do. Because we have free will, we choose what we believe. Jesus will not force truth onto us. When we believe something which is untrue, this is a stronghold. We must identify and tear down our own strongholds. John when you can do this, Jesus can bring about the mighty growth that He has planned for you".

Wow! Me? What do I know? One thing I did know; when you are deceived, you are deceived because you are deceived. If you knew you were deceived you could respond and do something about it. But because of the deception ..

Praise Jesus for brothers and sisters who pray for and then disciple us. I began to recognise strongholds, and bring Jesus' truth to bear on them. Great change resulted. I began to come into the freedom Christ secured for all His people (Galatians 5:1 ASV) For freedom did Christ set us free: stand fast therefore, and be not entangled again in a yoke of bondage.

Biblical Truth

A characteristic of teaching about spiritual healing is that we must recognise biblical truth, proclaim it, and stand on it. Every teacher tells you their version of what God's truth is.

Some Things Which I Believe Are God's Truth:
•   God's truth is relational and always comes with love (Romans 5:5).
•  We are in a family (we are all sons because we are included in Father God's inheritance (Galatians 4:6)).
•  We are Jesus' friends, not His servants (John 15).
•  Jesus lives in every Christian (John 17).
•  There is always room for forgiveness and repentance and a new start (Luke 15:24, John 8:11).
•  God's truth is fully backed by Jesus' righteousness in us (Romans 5:17).
•  We are free from guilt in Christ Jesus (Romans 7:15-24, Romans 8:1).
•  We live in grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 5:2)
•  Our circumcision is of the heart, this binds us into the New Covenant (Romans 2:28-29).

And Some Which Are Not:
•  God is not transactional, in no way is reward based on expenditure or effort or sacrifice (Galatians 1:14).
•   Christianity is not rule-bound, not propositional, not religious (Matthew 23:23).
•   The words "must", "ought", "should" and "should not" are more Old Covenant than New.

Where Am I Going With This?

Jesus was beaten mercilessly and this paid for my healing and yours.

Jesus spilt His blood so that I can be washed clean from sin and live in righteousness.

Jesus died to defeat death and Satan, so that I will not die but have eternal life.

Truth. Here is truth. Jesus is here. His Abba Daddy is my Abba Daddy. The illnesses, malfunctions and defects in my body cannot withstand the power set against them by My Lord who reigns in the heavenly places. (Psalm 118:17) I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of Almighty God.

Favourite Scriptures

(Romans 5:17 NIV) For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.

(1 Peter 2:24) [Jesus] who his own self bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live to righteousness; by whose stripes you were healed.

P.S.

Trish wanted to be sure that I knew that I'm not alone in the room while I work on this. I do know. I am very aware that you are here with me precious reader. My prayers are for you that Jesus will meet you in your need, and especially in your need for love and freedom.

It is remarkably difficult to write a fresh piece each day. When I first felt led to stop taking medications and visiting doctors for these 30 days, I planned to keep knowledge of the project within our family.

This web-site has been established nearly four months; within a few hours of the first abstinence from medications, Jesus made it very clear that I was to do daily PsalmsOfJohn.com reports! Every day He comes, He gives me my subjects, and the Scriptures. He shows me what to cut when I write too much. This is His work, with my fingers typing! Thank you Jesus for your love.

Praise Jesus,
Amen.

• Permalink to web page

https://www.psalmsofjohn.com/2010/10/in-jesus-hands-day-8.html

"In Jesus' Hands: Day 8" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4niA7sskbuDiZe8XAsU8g6

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 7

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

Today we went to the zoo. Breanna, our granddaughter, turned five and this was Trish and my gift to her. She loves every kind of animal. Talk about excited! Bree took over the zoo map and ticked off each kind of creature once we'd visited that enclosure. Elephants are her favourite.

God Loves Us So Very Much
It was such a delight to see Trish and Breanna together, there is this bond, this grandmother/granddaughter relationship. I was very aware that that is how my heavenly Abba Father is towards me, towards every single one of us: (Luke 13:34 NIV) . . as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings . .

The Creation
Zoos remind us that the creation is unendingly amazing. The synergy between all the creatures, the landscapes, and the various climates, even the migrations. Everything is so finely balanced and yet God sustains it, day by day, and by season, and by year.

Too Much?
Does this mean that I'm asking too much when I put myself into Jesus' hands? I asked that in 30 days Jesus will fully heal me of the sixteen distinct medical complaints that I have been seeing 8 medical specialists and 2 GP doctors for, some for over 20 years? I have stopped taking my medications.

God is so busy with His creation. Yet when things don't fit, or begin to fail, they die. Should I be content with the wonderful healings and other blessings I have already received? My emotions, relationships and addictions were bad. Jesus healed them and delivered me. Compared with so many I have a great life, people even say that I am young for my age.

Pondering
Is my stopping all my medications a work? Is it a challenge to God? Am I testing Him? (Matthew 4:7) Jesus said to Satan, "It is written, 'You shall not test the Lord, your God.'"

I've been pondering this and asking Jesus to speak clearly. Am I testing you Lord? Is mine an acceptable request?

Favourite Scripture:
(Colossians 1:15-20 NIV) He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Is Jesus the answer? Yes. Is He my answer here? I truly do not know, we will come back to this . .

Praise Jesus,
Amen.

• Permalink to web page

https://www.psalmsofjohn.com/2010/10/in-jesus-hands-day-7.html

"In Jesus' Hands: Day 7" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5MgVYsf5pxZtCblicuCO7L

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 6

My Testimony - 30 Days In Jesus' Hands

A beautiful spring day. Prayer time in bed: (John 15:5) "I am the vine. You are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, the same bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing". 

Exactly Lord, thank you that you speak into our need, always speaking from love. You assure me that you are here with me and will never leave (Matthew 28:20).

Then church. We call this first Sunday of the month "Celebration"! We sang: "When I rise in the morning, give me Jesus . . " Yes, exactly Jesus, you alone offer life and hope. Thank you that you bought and paid for me (1 Corinthians 6:19), you are in me, and I in you.

Favourite Bible Verses:
(John 17:23-26) "I in them, and you in me, that they may be perfected into one; that the world may know that you sent me, and loved them, even as you loved me. Father, I desire that they also whom you have given me be with me where I am, that they may see my glory, which you have given me, for you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world hasn't known you, but I knew you; and these knew that you sent me. I made known to them your name, and will make it known; that the love with which you loved me may be in them, and I in them".

Praise Jesus
Amen

• Permalink to web page

https://www.psalmsofjohn.com/2010/10/in-jesus-hands-day-6.html

"In Jesus' Hands: Day 6" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3VIVWi3m1M86WrAkt05RFB

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 5

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

Five days ago I threw myself into Jesus' hands and will have no medications or contact with medical people for thirty days. When Trish, my wife, and I were praying about this I had a great sense that God loves me, as Father, as Son, and as Holy Spirit. Both Trish and I had an inner peace that we could trust God's Word, as given to us in the Bible, that Jesus would, in fact, be our rock: (Isaiah 26:4 NIV) Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.

I am still amazed how full of hope I am. Not the hope of a farmer facing a dry year, but the certain hope of a Christian for whom Jesus has already done everything. Hope from assurance which comes from faith (Hebrews 11:1). Faith which comes from knowing our Lord Jesus Christ, and our Father who sent Him. Faith elicited by the testimony of those who have experienced God's love and power and working for good in their lives.

Today was another busy day with good progress in many things. One new thing, for the first time in two weeks I took Star, our dog, walking. My knee seemed not to mind a bit. We brought flowers home for the kitchen.

The knee is significant because it so affects my testimony.

My Knee
About four years ago my left knee began to ache. It got very painful and I developed an involuntary limp. I saw my doctor who sent me to a specialist orthopaedic surgeon who had x-rays and an MRI scan done. He said "look, you can see that the cartilage is worn like an old blanket . . there is significant arthritis . . your knee is finished . . I'll see you again in six years or so, to fit a plastic knee".

After prayer at a healing meeting the pain left and mobility returned. Hallelujah! Rejoicing! A miracle? I thought so, and testified many, many times. All the swelling never quite left the knee, sometimes it would be hot, sometimes sore, but I had my mobility. I called it a miracle and for me it was.

Six weeks ago the same knee mushroomed in size. I saw my new orthopaedic surgeon. He said that it is common for worn and arthritic joints to be inflamed and sore, then, for no apparent reason, become virtually normal for extended periods before returning to the painful condition. The new x-rays showed clear deterioration, particularly in the cartilage. I believed this to be my "miracle knee". Clearly no doctor would see the changes as a sign or a wonder in the biblical sense. Where does this leave my testimony?

Testimony Is My Work
Whenever I share, or teach, even when I pray, testimony is a mainstay. I speak of what I know in my spirit to be true through my own experience or through direct observation.

Everything I write contains testimony. If my miracle knee is not a miracle then what do I write and publish? Should this web-site be dismantled and deleted. Didn't PsalmsOfJohn.com come from Jesus, our Lord?

This was a huge crisis in my understanding of who I am in Christ, even as that understanding is, at last, becoming firmly established.

So I prayed. We prayed, many of us. Now, here I am, in Jesus' hands.

Favourite Scripture:
(Matthew 7:11) "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!"

Praise Jesus
Amen

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 5" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1GiBGhQ6aeLwl5KapIj2n4

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 4

Testimony - 30 Days In Jesus' Hands

We just got home from a Friday night "Well" meeting. Our church is host. People come from many local churches; pastors, parish priests, elders, and leaders too. We go to the "well" and get a drink from the Lord. Fabulous. Jesus always shows up. Tonight many found a new assurance and freedom. We sang "I sing because He is good, I dance because He is good, I shout because He is good, He is good to me". Many danced. It was a time of release and freedom in Christ Jesus, particularly freedom from religion.

The Scripture (Luke 11:11) "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?" was spoken. What a truth! What an affirmation to me for these 30 days with no drugs or doctors! Trish came tonight which is wonderful, usually going out Friday night is too much for her. She was blessed. We all were. Jesus looks after His people. He is good.

Dad, How Do You Feel?
Generally my kids don't ask after my health much, unless I've just come out of hospital. Today I was asked more than once. I was so blessed to be asked, and blessed that I could answer in the positive. I am well. My left hand is a little sore (like arthritis), I think it is tired from the tough weeding I did yesterday.

There are no obvious effects of my not taking my usual prescription medications. (Also, I have had no caffeine for 8 days, no nicotine or alcohol or dope for years!)

There are also no obvious signs of healing, but that's OK. These are early days, healings often take some time. Jesus loves me, His Abba Daddy is my Abba Daddy.

Favourite Scriptures:
(Hebrews 11:1 NIV) Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Meditating on this verse is so very rewarding. Am I sure? Yes. Do I see? No.

(Luke 11:11) "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?"

(Luke 12:22-24) He said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, don't be anxious for your life, what you will eat, nor yet for your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they don't sow, they don't reap, they have no warehouse or barn, and God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than birds!

Hearing From God
This hearing from God idea is really interesting. Controversial too. Paul talks about it: (1 Corinthians 14:1) "Follow after love, and earnestly desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy".

The prophetic gifting is something we can seek. It is real. Paul is talking to the church, to us. Shouldn't prophetic gifting be commonplace? Yes. I even think it is commonplace.

Think about this .. every week, all around the world, millions (yes, millions) of pastors, ministers, Bible college and Bible class teachers, missionaries, parish priests, home group leaders, and others, say: "Lord, what would you have me share with your people this week? What shall I preach or teach on Tuesday/Thursday/Sunday?"

Then they get out their Bible and all the teaching aids they use: Many Scripture translations, Greek and Hebrew Bibles, computers, text books, devotions, notes, CDs, maps. Then they go to work. On Tuesday, or Thursday, or Sunday they share what they have put together. This whole project is God's work. Their appointment into their position is Jesus work. He is Head of the Church. Jesus was asked for help, help surely came! Not a stone. Bread.

Praise Jesus
Amen

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 4" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/082xZTAJihpRsdzmEcZ5tY

Bless us all.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 3

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

What a day of progress! Trish and I started the day with a prayer time together, and communion. I don't have to tell you that we talk quite a bit about this 30 day medication free and doctor free project.

We spent some of our time talking about how hard should I work at the spiritual side of this?

Every day should I:
* Read or study Scripture for, say, an hour?
* Have communion?
* Listen to a CD or read a great Christian healing teacher?
* Spend a significant time in prayer? In spiritual warfare prayer?
* Put on the armour of God (Ephesians 6 - each component is Jesus)?
* Do warfare prayer on behalf of our family, houses, cars ..
* Cut off ungodly soul ties?
* Speak to each ailment and body part and system?
* Pray that Jesus will heal each illness, disease, or problem?

Is there stuff I should do that I have not listed? Stuff I don't even know about, that I should be doing?

I have to say that as much as I love Jesus and love being a Christian, I have never been able to do this stuff. I've never had a consistent prayer time, or systematically persued any course of study (except in Bible College). Christianity is relational, it is not propositional, neither is it "do this" and "don't do that".

Jesus gives me thoughts to chew on: I spent a very tough year with Him in Psalm 22. Another year we meditated on John 1 and Genesis 1 and 2, now I am very Christ centred yet totally in awe of God's creation. Right now it is "grace": (John 1:16) From his fullness we all received grace upon grace.

Favourite Scripture:
(Galatians 5:1)  For freedom did Christ set us free: stand fast therefore, and be not entangled again in a yoke of bondage.

I know this to be true; Christians have been set free so that we can be free in Jesus our Lord. We sing a song: "free to sing, free to dance, free to run". All in Him.

When I ponder this and my circumstances I realise that my frustration about time is God inspired. So much time and energy is swallowed up in blood tests, CT scans, X-Rays, clinics, procedures.

Jesus
This is not about me. It is not about my illnesses. It is about Jesus and His Kingdom breaking in on the Earth and on humankind. It is about His glory and all glory going to our Father. We participate with Jesus in bringing glory to Father God. This is why a Christian's whole life is worship!

So my prayer (and Trish's too, and our kids') is this:
"Jesus, my life is for your glory. My time is for your glory. Wash my body, cleanse my systems; redeem my time Lord, I pray. I promise myself for your purposes, for you to glorify yourself. I know you love me, you gave yourself for me, then bought me for your purposes. Do what you will Lord. I am yours".

We had the most wonderful and productive day. We did huge work in the garden, (mostly Trish and Patrick), gorgeous! And I got my little red car ready for sale; when it is sold we will buy something newer and zippier for Trish, and I will take over our trusty family van. Tonight a lovely simple family meal together.

Praise Jesus
Amen

• Permalink to web page

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 3" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2PRjZ7FIvxbHpPgzjcZS9Y

Amen.

In Jesus' Hands: Day 2

30 Days In Jesus' Hands

At the end of my second day in Jesus' hands, away from medications and the care of medical people, I absolutely believe that Jesus loves me, is with me, and is in process of completely healing me.

My wife, Trish, our younger daughter Becky, and I, went to a healing meeting this morning. People were asked to stand if there was "something impossible" before them, "a chasm too deep to cross"; of all the things to ask me today! Amongst others I stood and was prayed for. No details or circumstances were discussed. The prayers of the people brought forth such deep sobs from me, and tears, and an all encompassing knowledge of Jesus' love. My Saviour. God's Son, my fellow son and fellow heir of Father God. My tears seemed so very, very clean, Jesus used them to wash me inside and out.

Later, during a quiet moment, I received a prophetic picture from the Lord: I was standing perfectly upright with my hands by my sides, but instead of being on the ground I was rising, effortlessly and steadily, into the air. Below me, heaped on the ground, was a pile of what looked to be meat, guts, skin, and bone fragments, it looked disgusting, the whole pile was putrid with puss and slime. I believe that I saw a prophetic picture of all that will be left of my "sixteen distinct medical complaints" by the time these 30 days are done.

More Favourite Scriptures:
God, in His Bible, promises that every one of Jesus' followers, indeed every person, already has their healing paid for by Jesus as He suffered and then died on the Cross:
(Isaiah 53:5) But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the punishment that brought our peace was upon him; and by his stripes we are healed.

Jesus' Proximity and Presence
(Deuteronomy 4:29) There you will look for the Lord your God, and if you search for him with all your heart, you will find him.

(Jeremiah 29:13) And you shall seek me, and find me, when you shall search for me with all your heart.

(Proverbs 8:17) I love those who love me. Those who seek me diligently will find me.

(Matthew 5:6) "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled".

All our righteousness is Jesus Christ Himself, He is our righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21) God made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become God's righteousness in Him.

(Matthew 28:20) ". . Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age".

A Simple Question:
IF Jesus has fully and completely paid for our healing, and
IF God is always there for us when we earnestly seek Him,
then
It has to be a travesty of justice that even one person is sick today, that I am sick today and experiencing illness, (especially after years of the excellent medical care I have received here in Australia).

Tonight
A lovely travelling preacher and his wife, who we have known for many years, are in town tonight at a church near here. I am able to join them for a shared meal and a praise, prayer and preaching meeting. He is seventy seven! I am so looking forward. I am cooking chicken drumsticks to take, I must go now and turn them in the oven.

• Permalink to web page

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"In Jesus' Hands: Day 2" is now a podcast on Spotify under PsalmsOfJohn

• Public link to podcast

https://open.spotify.com/episode/46NpIGedkNVQ5h74ntW0go

Blessings to all.

Until tomorrow ...
Praise Jesus.
Amen.