11/30/13

“You may notice that I am requiring you to experience the messages you will be giving to those around you. I am finished with My messengers spouting other people’s lessons and teachings. Soon, only those who are willing to come to Me for their nourishment, and then live My teachings, will have My anointing to provide food for others.

How can you give away what you do not own? Why do you feel that you have the right to be exempt from “owning” the lessons you want to give away? Most of you have been giving away predigested food; food received from Me by others. Because of the anointing on it, it has nourished those in need and you have been able to survive. You, however, have become malnourished because you have not received your life directly from Me.

I am now requiring you to not only be the message; you must be well-fed from My hand, or your words will fall to the ground in front of you, giving little nourishment to others. Become hungry for My Word. Require Me as your source for life. Seek Me for your life and tell others to do the same.”

Amos 5:4b AMP

…Seek Me [inquire for and of Me and require Me as you require food] and you shall live.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 AMP

¹⁶Every Scripture is God–breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose and action),

¹⁷So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well-fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.

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If you chose to give someone a car that was owned by your neighbor, your gift would be less than perfect, wouldn’t it? That may be a somewhat foolish example, but it does drive home a point. Unless you really own something, you have no right to give it away.

People, who are well–equipped to share the life of the Word of God, do so from having that Word completely formed within them, given from the One Who wrote it. It nourishes and brings life to their being, and is fit to give life to others by the performance of that Word in their everyday walk. That kind of life only comes from spending time in the Word and waiting on the Lord to reveal its spiritual calories to your inner being.

Today’s malnourished church will listen to tapes, go to sermons, and read books, rather than go to God themselves for their food. These are all very good activities and well worth investing in, but they can never replace the life and wealthy counsel that is received at the hand of our Lord and from the lap of our Father.

Draw me close, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/29/13

“People will see your humble submission to Me as weakness. They misunderstood Jesus. Even after He did mighty wonders in their midst, they had no respect for His power. Laying down His life for others meant nothing to them. In their eyes, their physical prowess and worldly station filled them with pride so deadly that they couldn’t discern truth. It is the same today.

If you claim to have nothing of yourself, if you fully understand your bankruptcy without My influence on your life, if you realize that true wealth means you have no wealth or prowess of your own making, you will be one of My children who knows truth. If you confess your total submission to Me out loud and live it before others, you will be scorned, laughed at, maligned, and perceived as a weakling in the world and in most so-called spiritual circles. They did it to Jesus; they will surely do it to you. Be at peace. You are following My heart and My Word. You are flowing in the life and character of Jesus!”

Amos 5:4b AMP

…Seek Me [inquire for and of Me and require Me as you require food] and you shall live!

Matt. 5:11-12 NIV

¹¹“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.

¹²Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Matthew 16:24-25 AMP

²⁴Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself [disregard, lose sight of, and forget himself and his own interests] and take up his cross and follow Me [cleave steadfastly to Me, conform wholly to My example in living and, if need be, in dying, also].

²⁵For whoever is bent on saving his [temporal] life [his comfort and security here] shall lose it [eternal life]; and whoever loses his life [his comfort and security here] for My sake shall find it [life everlasting].

John 4:34 NIV

”My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work.”

John 6:57 AMP

Just as the living Father sent Me and I live by (through, because of) the Father, even so whoever continues to feed on Me [whoever takes Me for his food and is nourished by Me] shall [in his turn] live through and because of Me.

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God has placed us in a world that is actually out to kill us, so to speak. As Christians, we are oil floating on top of water and if we are true to our calling, we’ll never mix in because the spirit and flesh cannot function together. God has also called us to overcome that world. Our time spent with others and our responses to them allow us to seek the Father so that we can be changed in order to reflect Christ properly.

Phil. 2:12b-13 AMP …work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ).

13 [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.

Once we have given Jesus Lordship over our lives, it is the Father’s intent to refine, mold, and develop that salvation in us to the fullest extent. If we are going to tell others about Jesus, we will have to be changed so that we can represent Him properly. Our words alone will usually not be enough for others to see their need of Jesus. In fact, if our lives do not mirror Him, our words will more than likely be cast aside, and rightfully so. The world can spot a phony and they won’t listen to one.

Teach me to need only You, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/28/13

“Because you are mature enough to understand, I wish to make something very clear to you. There is no you without Me. So many of My people have brought Me down to their level. I have become something they have added to their lives instead of their only source of life. Do not make that same mistake. Ponder what I’ve said until it becomes truth to your heart. It will change your life, increase your faith, and renew the proper sense of awe needed to trust Me fully once again.

I gave the first breath to Adam. If I should turn My attention from you for a single moment, you would cease to exist. However, you don’t need to fear. Your days are planned by My desire and numbered by Me. No one and nothing will rob you of a single moment.

Begin to see a larger picture of things. I spoke the universe into being. I formed you and I keep you. You will live by My will. It would be wise for you to live for My will.”

Psalm 46:10 NIV

“Be still and know that I am God...”

Psalm 150:1-6 AMP

¹Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in the heavens of His power!

²Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to the abundance of His greatness!

³Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with lute and harp!

⁴Praise Him with tambourine and [single or group] dance; praise Him with stringed and wind instruments or flutes!

⁵Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with loud clashing cymbals!

⁶Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!

Proverbs 20:24 AMP

Man’s steps are ordered by the Lord….

Jeremiah 15:19 AMP

Therefore thus says the Lord [to Jeremiah]: If you return [and give up this mistaken tone of distrust and despair], then I will give you again a settled place of quiet and safety, and you will be My minister; and if you separate the precious from the vile [cleansing your own heart from unworthy and unwarranted suspicions concerning God’s faithfulness], you shall be My mouthpiece.

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Most of our words about our Sovereign, Almighty God have lost their impact because of familiarity and loose usage. There is no question that the blood of Jesus has given us the right to call Him ABBA, but it never gave us the right to diminish Who He really is because of our pride. Because of His abounding mercy and grace, some of us have lost perspective and minimized Him as God in our eyes. Some have brought Him to the level of being made in our image, demanding that He serve our needs.

In this present time, there is an onslaught to destroy our faith. The best way that the enemy can destroy who we are, what has been done for us through Jesus, and the corresponding wonder of our relationship with Him is to diminish Who God really is in our eyes. We need to remember that this is the very same God Moses could not look upon because of His glory.

The “smaller” our God and Lord can be made to appear to us, the weaker He will seem. The weaker He seems, the less we will be in awe of Him. That is hazardous to our walk with Him; and, consequently, to our wonder of Him and trust in Him as God.

Remember; there is only One God. He is El Shaddai. He is more powerful than any need, greater than any foe; and worthy of all honor and glory. His will brought everything into being. He is God and there is no other. He held our first breath and owns our last. It is right to serve Him and live only for Him.

Never let me forget, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/27/13

“Have you ever pictured the straight path that I have called you to travel? First of all, it is very narrow and strewn with rocks, pitfalls, and other obstacles that will make you stumble, if you don’t keep your eyes on Jesus. It is crowned in the center so that it slopes to each side where there are briars, entanglements, and multiple places where the unwary traveler could be stalled by hazards. Overhead, there is a canopy of foliage, which contains a mixture of nourishing and poisonous fruit and vegetables, its bounty sometimes hindering all light from brightening your path. This covering also conceals predators that are looking to devour anyone who is near the sides of the path and not in the very center. Off to the sides, there are winsome sirens, who call to hawk their wares and divert travelers to the side roads, which are smooth, wide, and very beautiful. These tangent paths are numerous and very tempting, filled with rest areas and refreshing places.

Most of the time, it is very dark. Sometimes a blanket of dense fog covers the road, making visibility non-existent. The road is long, sometimes very steep, and often seemingly impossible—even to the most seasoned traveler. Anyone who decides to travel the road alone is sure to fall into the briars, become side-tracked by many of the beautiful tangents, or die from choosing wrong fruit.

To each of you, My precious children, Jesus extends His nail-pierced hand. Keep your eyes on Him, never looking to the left or right, and place your feet only where He tells you to step. As you travel, He will tell you of the many wonders We have provided for you at the end of the path. You are very safe from the terrors that are waiting to harm you while you travel, and Jesus has any refreshment you will need.

If you notice, the end of the path is approaching. Be sure to keep your eyes on Jesus. Most of the journey has passed, but there are a few dangerous steps ahead. The distractions will be more intense and the path will be steeper, but the hazards will not touch you if you continue to focus on Him. I am waiting to welcome you.”

Ps. 27:11 AMP

Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain and even path because of my enemies [those who lie in wait for me].

Prov. 4:25-27 AMP

²⁵Let your eyes look right on [with fixed purpose], and let your gaze be straight before you.

²⁶Consider well the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established and ordered aright.

²⁷Turn not aside to the right hand or to the left; remove your foot from evil.

Heb. 12:1-2a AMP

¹THEREFORE THEN, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady andactive persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us.,/p>

^2aLooking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection].

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I’m sure you’ve heard the story of the traveler who was walking on a very dark night in a mountainous area. He had traveled the road once, and was aware of the dangers and steep cliffs at every turn; so his steps were cautious, knowing that he could fall off the road if he should lose his footing.

At one very dangerous place, he did lose his footing and dropped over the edge of a cliff. Grabbing for anything he could, he snagged a branch that was protruding from the side of the sheer drop-off. There he hung in the black night, unable to see in any direction, hoping the branch would hold.

Throughout the long, cold night, he prayed fervently, hands straining to keep a grip, fingers weary beyond understanding. Periodically, the words, “Trust Me,” came to His heart. When they did, he felt the urge to let go of the branch, which he fought off for obvious reasons.

Morning light, however, revealed that he had grabbed a branch above a large ledge, just high enough above the ground to keep his feet about one foot from touching solid footing. He had hung there all night in fear, unaware that safety was close at hand.

I’m not quite sure how to equate this story with the word above, so you can fill in the blanks as they apply to your life. I do know, however, that our Father is faithful to protect us even though there is no sign of His hand anywhere in sight. I also know that Jesus has gone before us and is the provision for our journey. I guess that everything other than that is simply not worthy of notice.

Sometimes wearily hanging, when I should be letting go,

Jim Corbett

11/26/13

“You need to understand that there are many things you will not understand. As you mature, you will rest in the fact that I am your God. You will find peace where there seems to be no peace. Before you learned how to wait on Me, the season that you are going through now would have you striving and fearful. Because you can rest even when all things around you seem to be falling apart, I am free to move on your behalf. There is nothing that I need help with. You are powerless to do anything anyway. That is good. Now I will do what is necessary, so that My plan is accomplished. I have not left you. I am deeply involved in your life. Just trust Me.”

Psalm 3:1-6 AMP

¹LORD, HOW they are increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me.

²Many are saying of me, There is no help for him in God. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

³But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.

⁴With my voice I cry to the Lord, and He hears and answers me out of His holy hill. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

⁵I lay down and slept; I wakened again, for the Lord sustains me.

⁶I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me round about.

Psalm 18:1-2 NIV

¹I love you, O LORD, my strength.

²The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield…

John 5:19-20a NIV

¹⁹Jesus gave them this answer: “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.

^20aFor the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does.”

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Someone once said: “Christianity in its inception is about us, as we grow it becomes about others, in its maturity it is about God.” Most of those who call themselves Christians have never left the first phase of their walk with the Lord. Everything centers around them and their welfare.

God is moving on His people so that we grow up. He wants us to fully understand that nothing matters except His will. When that truth is “owned” by us, even the direst circumstances can’t touch us for we know that our Lord is in them with us, accomplishing His will.

Today is a day that your Lord is in charge of your life, if you get your hands off of it. He will give you peace if you trust Him. He will orchestrate everything that needs to be touched if you let Him. He is your Lord. He takes that job very seriously!

Thank You for being in charge, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/25/13

“Count the days. Mark the hours. A wondrous time is at hand! I am about to implement what I have been heralding for some time. You, My chosen people, will soon be delivered from the portions of flesh that have been hindering you for so long. You are soon going to experience freedom from fear, lusts of the flesh, and all forbidden desires. Everything will not come at one time; but when you need My power, you will be amazed that your submission has allowed My presence to rise up within you to accomplish what is needed to glorify Me. You will be My workmanship, visible to an unbelieving world.

The world has been allowed to see the weaknesses in My church. They have chosen to scorn, mock, and laugh. In some cases, their ridicule has been justified. Those who supposedly represent Me have done nothing but flaunt their own immaturity. Human strength, ability, and manipulation will no longer be allowed to replace My anointing. My Holy Spirit will direct those who have been trained to flow in obedience. To the world, an honest representation of Jesus will, once again, be made visible. They will see His life in you, My beautiful children. They will observe His kind of life, even in the most trying circumstances. You will show them who He really is by your every action, and they will be in awe of His majesty.

I am building character and responsibility in you. Soon it will burst from every corner of your being. You will flow with Me as naturally as I have intended Our relationship to be all along. Those, who have eyes to see, will see; and come to Me because of you. Jesus will be seen, glorified, and embraced by the wise. That is the way it should be. Watch! Watch and be amazed concerning who you have become. You may not see it now; but when it is needed, My Spirit will rise within you for My glory. You will look like Jesus! He is worth seeing!”

Acts 4:29-33 AMP

²⁹And now, Lord, observe their threats and grant to Your bond servants [full freedom] to declare Your message fearlessly,

³⁰While You stretch out Your hand to cure and to perform signs and wonders through the authority and by the power of the name of Your holy Child and Servant Jesus.

³¹And when they had prayed, the place in which they were assembled was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they continued to speak the Word of God with freedom and boldness and courage.

³²Now the company of believers was of one heart and soul, and not one of them claimed that anything which he possessed was [exclusively] his own, but everything they had was in common and for the use of all.

³³And with great strength and ability and power the apostles delivered their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace (loving-kindness and favor and goodwill) rested richly upon them all.

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A company of believers—anointed, blessed, and sent forth with power and selfless love—found favor for the appointed season, and changed the world forever. What a heritage! So often, when the promised carving away of my flesh becomes the focus of my days, I begin to forget that there is a time when the purpose for my Lord’s work in me will become evident.

We have an appointment with destiny. You and I, as believers submitting to the hand of God on our lives, have an astounding purpose. We are to represent Jesus Christ—the Redeemer and Savior of the world—to the world. There is no higher calling, no greater privilege, no more worthy mission. We are truly blessed.

Help me to always remember what it’s all about, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/23/13

“Few of you realize the spiritual hazards that you invite into your lives when you do not allow Me to direct your steps. If you did, you would never venture out on your own again. Do you not understand that everything that has been provided for you is for your good? Of course, there is the corresponding side of accomplishing My will, but obedience and full submission to Me and My will are also provisions for your safety and protection. Stepping outside of their covering is really very foolish. You have little ability to ward off all the forces that are determined to destroy you when you choose to go your own way without consulting Me, and do what seems logical to you.

I have recreated you to be able to function in the spiritual world. Would you not think it wise to learn from Me how to exist there? Allow me to direct your every step. If you cannot do it out of love for Me and a desire to honor My request for obedience at this time, begin by listening to Me and My Word so that things might go well with you.”

Jeremiah 2:13 NIV

“My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken Me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.”

Ephesians 6:1-3 NIV

¹Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.

²“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—

³“that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

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Have you ever noticed how children feel that they know so much more than they really do? I often stand back and watch the struggle that ensues after hearing the words, “I can do it myself,” or “I know how to do it.” As a parent, my heart wishes that they could avoid the failure that is about to occur; but at the same time, I know the value of the lesson learned when they fail. My desire to teach them the proper way of doing something is not because I want to be “boss.” It is because I have more knowledge of the situation. I have been there before.

In a much greater way, our Father in heaven, Who knows all things, has set guidelines for us to function in so that it will go well with us—especially in the spiritual realm, a realm we know little about. We, however, choose to tell Him that “we can do it ourselves.” Then, like little children, we cry out to Him when we have completely messed up the situation. A little silly, don’t you think?

I can’t do it myself, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/22/13

“Don’t override My plans with your unbelief. Please don’t hinder My work in you because you cannot fathom that I would have focused attentions toward you. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. I made you with My own hands for Myself. You fit into everything that I have for you. More than that, you fit perfectly into My arms. You have a soft place in My heart. I have designed you to rest there. I love you!”

Genesis 1:26a NIV

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness”…

Gen. 1:27 AMP

So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him; male and female He created them.

Gen. 1:31a AMP

And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good (suitable, pleasant) and He approved it completely….

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To hear that God was pleased with what He had created takes on much more meaning when we think about how hard He has pursued mankind over the years to maintain fellowship with Him. All of the Old Testament rings of passionate favor. It is the testimony of a God Who is deeply in love and patiently enduring the ignorance and rebellion of some, so that He could embrace those who chose to embrace Him.

The incredible covenant, implemented at the cost of Jesus, should confirm His love for us once and for all. He could’ve left us in our separated, fallen state. Instead, as an ultimate act of love, He gave His all. He made us to fit into His existence. He formed us to be part of His plans. He made a way and wooed us to choose His presence over whatever else would garner our attentions. He is truly our God; but more importantly, we are His loved creation. His heart has a place for us.

Choosing to go where I belong and fit perfectly,

Jim Corbett

11/21/13

“Come close! Listen very carefully! The key to everything you need is Jesus! He is the answer to your every question, the hope of your every desire. Study His life. Examine His ways. Emulate His heart motives, see as He sees, love as He loves; and you shall prosper. Become as devoted to being in My will as He is and your days will glow with the kind of life of which the world has no knowledge.

You have been bought with a price that He gladly paid. He lives in you. Allow His life to flow through you for your good, for My purposes, and for the sake of others.”

Matthew 16:24-25 AMP

²⁴Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself [disregard, lose sight of, and forget himself and his own interests] and take up his cross and follow Me [cleave steadfastly to Me, conform wholly to My example in living and, if need be, in dying, also].

²⁵For whoever is bent on saving his [temporal] life [his comfort and security here] shall lose it [eternal life]; and whoever loses his life [his comfort and security here] for My sake shall find it [life everlasting].

Matthew 21:28-31 NIV

²⁸“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’

²⁹“‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.

³⁰“Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ’I will, sir,’ but he did not go.

³¹“Which of the two did what his father wanted?”

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To live out Christ’s life in the world around us with the same passion and heart commitment that Jesus lived when He walked among His creation is:

1) the only fitting response to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

2) the proper and honorable representation of Jesus to a world that is dying and out of answers.

3) the highest form of praise that can be given to the Lord as you emulate Him.

4) the proper response to the call of the Holy Spirit to prepare your heart as a waiting bride for the return of Jesus.

5) the only way to overcome the perilous times and seasons in which we are living, so that you can fulfill your purpose in life.

Give me Your heart, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/20/13

“Why do you return to the refuse of your past life? Why do you dwell among the ruins, when I have called you to soar in the high places with Me? You have been recreated because of your commitment to the Lordship of Jesus Christ over your life. You are now His. Everything about you has been conformed to dwell with Him. Nothing from your old nature is allowed where He is. It is time for you to realize who you really are in Christ, not so that you become proud as some do; but because others need to know the wonders of the cross. How can you tell them if you have a limited understanding yourself? Come to Me now. I will show you who you have become because of Jesus.”

Ezekiel 36:26-27 AMP

²⁶A new heart will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.

²⁷And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you shall heed My ordinances and do them.

I Cor. 15:50 NIV

I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.

II Corinthians 5:17 NIV

...if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Ephesians 1:17-19a NIV

¹⁷I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that you may know Him better.

¹⁸I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,

^19aand his incomparably great power for us who believe…

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Satan has deceived the world and most of the church of Jesus Christ into participating in a competition of religions, mainly by introducing the concept that all religions are the same and lead to the same conclusion. That is his playing field to try to nullify the power of the cross.

God destroyed all argument and created His own playing field when Jesus overcame death. No religion brings the dead to life. No religion changes the complete nature of its followers. They may take on a spirit, but that is simply an attachment to their old nature. Only Jesus changes everything in people when they surrender to Him. He removed all arguments, defeated all contentions, and set us - His very own - far apart from all others.

If you are truly the Lord’s property, you are not the same as those who are not His. That must not be a source of pride, but it is a fact. It’s time that we walked in the truth we’ve been given and glorify the One who has changed us. He is Jesus. There is no other like Him, for He is the Lord of everything in heaven and on earth. We are now formed to be able to abide in Him and present the same opportunity to others.

Thank You for making me new, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/19/13

“Have you noticed that many more of you are confirming My teachings one to another? That shouldn’t surprise you. As you draw close to Me, My voice becomes clearer; My heart becomes more visible. I am proclaiming My heart to those who have decided to set aside the things of the world and focus on My desires. You will hear what I have to say from several different sources in different ways, but by the same Holy Spirit. It is My way of allowing you to walk in confidence. It is also a way for you to see those who are part of My plan in these days.

The gap between those members of My body who are preparing for themselves, and those who are preparing for the fulfillment of My plans will be ever-widening as time passes. You must discern who is hearing from Me and who is closing their ears to My heart. You will need to know who is moving with Me, so that you and they can walk together. It is important to love every brother and sister, but it is also important to know who is walking in the same direction as you are.

Find those of like heart and align yourselves with them. Grow with them. Seek Me with them. Submit yourselves to an accountability that takes the form of service to them. When it is paramount that you trust others for your safety, you will know who they are. You will already be walking with them. Best friends do not violate a trust.”

Ps. 94:11-13a AMP

¹¹The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are vain (empty and futile—only a breath).

¹²Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whom You discipline and instruct, O Lord, and teach out of your law.

^13aThat you may give him power to keep himself calm in the days of adversity…

Prov. 16:1-3 AMP

¹THE PLANS of the mind and orderly thinking belong to man, but from the Lord comes the [wise] answer of the tongue.

²All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirits (the thoughts and intents of the heart).

³Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.

Amos 3:3 NLB

“Can two walk together without agreeing on the direction?”

Acts 15:37-40 NIV

³⁷Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them,

³⁸but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work.

³⁹They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus,

⁴⁰but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.

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In a season when trustworthy friendships were very important for safety; but more importantly when the work required was at stake, Paul found little comfort in unity at the risk of his life or God’s purposes. He saw the fruit of Mark’s heart when the going got rough and made a call that caused sharp disagreement between himself and Barnabas.

In today’s church, there is an underlying fear of calling it like it really is. So many of us have been taught not to judge others, that we have even thrown wisdom and discernment out the door. It may not be a problem when all is peace and safety, but that kind of thinking is foolishness when perilous times require accountability.

We need to face the fact that some members of the body of Christ are in fellowship for their own best interests. They have not responded to the present heralding to draw close and be equipped for what lies ahead. When they will be needed, many will sell out to their fears and emotions, rather than to the quieted and unfamiliar voice of the Lord in their lives. They will not be trustworthy, because they will not be able to hear the Lord clearly. To walk with them will possibly cause harm when true alliances are needed.

God is calling each of us close to Him. He is preparing us for these closing hours of time and equipping those of us who are responding to His call. He will show us others who are responding to that same call and will allow us to see their true heart motives. Violations of our trust are clear indications of improper motives. We should love the person, but recognize the sign and trust God’s reasons for showing us his or her heart.

Many will not understand the decisions that we are being called to make and the choices that we must implement if we are to be obedient to our Lord. When absolute obedience is demanded, they will not know how to respond nor understand our peace and positive direction.

Today is the day to find those of like Spirit, those responding to the call of the Lord. Soon, a floundering, selfish heart will be seen for what it really is. It will be foolish and time consuming to deal with it when much more important work is being required of us.

Make me trustworthy, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/18/13

“It’s time to reevaluate your priorities. Soon everything in your world will change. My Word is going forth. Nations are aligning with what I prophesied long ago. In the heavenlies, I have spoken My will. It is soon to be loosed upon your land. Do not be confused by interim distractions. Many who deny My will are attempting to bring forth their rebellion through hatred and murder. That is not Me. I am realigning everything and bringing to a conclusion the necessary situations that will eventually usher in the return of Jesus.

While all this is happening, you decide what is really important in your life. You make sure that you are functioning as I have ordained you to function. The coming times will give you the opportunity to see what is really important. They will bring many opportunities to love deeper and care more for the things that I care about. Some of the situations that you will find yourselves in will drive you to your knees. That is where I have wanted you to be all along. When I have your attention, you will experience a revival in your spirit. Useless goals will fall away. Unnecessary longings will be set aside like so much old news.

Decide to flow with Me during these perilous times. Rise above the din of the world to a place of safety with Me. Prioritize your life to include what is important to Me. I am with you. I love you.”

Ps. 91:1-2 AMP

¹HE WHO dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty [Whose power no foe can withstand].

²I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust!

Acts 12:6 AMP

The very night before Herod was about to bring him forth, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, fastened with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison.

II Cor. 7:9-11a AMP

⁹Yet I am glad now, not because you were pained, but because you were pained into repentance [that turned you to God]; for you felt a grief such as God meant you to feel, so that in nothing you might suffer loss through us or harm for what we did.

¹⁰For godly grief and the pain God is permitted to direct, produce a repentance that leads and contributes to salvation and deliverance from evil, and it never brings regret; but worldly grief (the hopeless sorrow that is characteristic of the pagan world) is deadly [breeding and ending in death].

^11aFor [you can look back now and] observe what this same godly sorrow has done for you and has produced in you…

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One day as I was contemplating many things, the Lord asked me what was important, really important. It immediately made me question my priorities. It stopped me long enough to redirect my thinking to what is actually of consequence. Then it occurred to me. The things that affect my life in the news and in the world around me seem to be urgent; the relationship we have with Jesus and with each other is what’s important. Duh!!!

I believe that what is important is about to overshadow what has been urgent for too long in our lives. Maybe it’s time to take a deep breath, sit with our Lord, and begin to really embrace this life and our fellow participants in it; and above all, if these times have pockets of relief in them, we need to remember to remain steadfast in this direction simply to honor our Lord.

Our loving Father is in charge of everything. He is Lord, and we are His children. I am convinced that these days are the beginning of the finest hour for those who love Jesus as their priority. We are going to have time to cleanse our garments of every blemish, spot, and wrinkle. It is time to get on with it. We all need to remember what our Lord has been saying to each of us for some time now. His wooing to come closer to Him seems like a most wonderful thing to do at this time, doesn’t it?

Show me the way, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/16/13

“Have you done what I’ve asked you to do? Do you even know what I’ve asked you to do or not do? Have you spent enough time with Me to know My heart? If you have, you know that I’m not looking for you to work hard for Me. I am looking for you to be with Me. That is what Jesus spent His life for. He gave you access to My Presence. I see you through the blood that He shed.

I know you because you have responded to His Lordship. Stop attempting to impress Me with your works. They matter little if We are not doing them together. Come to Me through Jesus. We will talk. We will reason. We will work together after you have submitted to My heart.”

John 5:19-20 NIV

¹⁹Jesus gave them this answer: “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.

²⁰For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does.

Luke 6:43-46 NIV

⁴³“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.

⁴⁴Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.

⁴⁵The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.

⁴⁶“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”

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Submission to the Father’s heart is a priority. So many of us take the work of the cross for our salvation and minimize the fact that the work of Jesus has won back the right for us to be in the presence of God the Father. Jesus shed blood was the only sacrifice accepted by God. Most of us tend to forget how important it is to use this astounding privilege.

Take some time to think about how miserable our existence would be without access to God. Think how horrible it would be if we could not go to Him for direction, guidance, and assurance. Remember the price that was paid for you and me the next time you pray and those prayers are answered. Thank Him for devising a means for us to return to Him as often as we desire.

Let me never forget, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/15/13

“If you don’t tell them about Jesus, who will? How will those around you know about the love that I have for them if you don’t explain it to them? You are My vessel that I have chosen to carry My good news to everyone that I place in your life. You are the one that I have chosen to show others Jesus. I believe in you. I trust you with My Word. I have called you, so I will make all My resources available to you, so that you can do your job effectively. Come to Me often. I will give you what you need to prosper in your well-doing.”

Proverbs 20:24a AMP

Man’s steps are ordered by the Lord….

Isaiah 30:21 NIV

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way, walk in it.”

Ephesians 3:7-9 NIV

⁷I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power.

⁸Although I am less than the least of all God’s people, this grace was given me; to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,

⁹and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.

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So often we attempt to make this life in Christ so difficult when it is really very simple. Our job is to tell others about the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our Father God has dedicated Himself to helping us do that. He equips us, and we go forth to those He has placed in our lives. It just makes sense, doesn’t it?

Equip me, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/14/13

“Discern the difference between condemnation and conviction. I will never even hint toward condemning you. A great price has been paid so that We can fellowship together and spend eternity with each other. To have done all of that, and then condemn you after you have surrendered yourself completely to Jesus, would be unthinkable.

My heart is always for you. I am always on your side as you keep coming closer to Me. Rest assured, I will be in your corner cheering you on, using all My resources on your behalf as you submit to the work of the cross. I will continually encourage you. I will also convict your heart of those things that harm you and Our fellowship together. I tell you of those things because I love you. Respond to My conviction; cast aside any form of condemnation. It is never from Me.”

Rev. 3:19 AMP

Those whom I [dearly and tenderly] love, I tell their faults and convict and convince and reprove and chasten [I discipline and instruct them]. So be enthusiastic and in earnest and burning with zeal and repent [changing your mind and attitude].

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So many of us are so in the habit of defending ourselves that we even try to do it when the Lord starts to convict us of those areas that need to be changed. This world has gone so far astray from the truth that it seems as though most everything has migrated from definitive right and wrong into a muddy shade of gray. The Word of God, however, never does that with sin. Father God never condescends to our way of thinking. He calls sin exactly what it is – sin.

Even though we have been forgiven, have a new nature, strive toward holiness, and have access to sit on our loving Abba’s lap, we all still sin. It sure is wonderful to have Someone Who loves us so much and is always available to show us when we stray from the path. Never condemning, always on our side, never giving up on us, our Father leads us from the horrors of this world into a life of freedom—one conviction and subsequent repentance at a time. What an incredible relationship!

Thank You for Your convicting love, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/13/13

“You are living in dangerous times! You are living in seasons that have been prophesied in My Word as the end of times. Do not ignore the warnings that I present to you or deny the signs that are happening all around you. Do not hide from reality. In these closing hours, you must make every moment count and take every opportunity to show others Jesus. There may not be another time. You must change your priorities for every event or circumstance that is presented to you. Make every fellowship or gathering count.

From this day, I need you to design your lives into groups of situations that have eternal purpose, rather than considering them random events. Your freedoms are eroding; your world is changing. Make the most of what is available to you for My kingdom, for My overall purposes. Your denial of the times in which you live will cause you to allow separations and divisions to remain with family and friendships in which I have placed you. Before this time, you have not counted it important enough to mend broken relationships or see new friends as I see them. You have always thought that there will be a “next time” to tell them about My love. Your world is too volatile to wait any longer. There may not be any “next times.” There may not be other times or better opportunities.

These natural seasons that you are in should have new priorities and deeper meaning for you, My chosen ones. Do not let them slip by. Do not one day regret your lack of boldness or fall into the trap of denial for the sake of false peace. Approach every moment and each encounter with My purposes in mind. I will open hearts. I will provide opportunities. Get your priorities straight and then wait for My Holy Spirit to give you the boldness needed to take proper advantage of every situation presented to you. Walk in My love now! There may not be many more open doors, so love enough to risk everything for important things.”

Rom 12:1-2 NIV

¹Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—which is your spiritual worship.

²Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

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A while back, the Lord showed me that every day really counts and that our lives are very important to Him. That may seem like old stuff to most of you, and maybe I’m thick-headed; but those realities were finally sinking in.

I now realize that every one of our days, friendships, family, and business opportunities are ordered by the Lord; not just random chance relationships. It has become clear that God has strategically placed us in the middle of His plans and surrounded us with people that we should now see as God-ordained appointments. It is also becoming very clear that we are fools if we do not embrace our position as ambassadors for Christ with all of our being.

A while back, I may have taken these morning mailings, written books and teaching materials, and even speaking sessions as simply ministry opportunities. As logical and reasonable as that may seem, I am ashamed at the time I have wasted and the godly opportunities that have passed by because of that ignorant attitude and how lightly I regarded my days. Because I didn’t grasp the impact of what my life meant to the Lord or understand the importance of my calling, I have squandered my Lord’s precious time.

In the quiet of the morning hours, the Lord is once again impressing on my heart the value of each and every moment in every one of our lives. He is emphatic that we cherish the holy alliances He has placed in our midst, and realize the eternal impact of what we are or are not becoming.

At the same time, He is showing me that you, the recipients of these writings, are His chosen and appointed vessels, who are being trained as His bright lights in an ever increasing darkness and raised up for such a time as this. You are held very close to His heart and valued beyond comprehension. Our association and the many associations in which we will all soon be placed as remnant believers are to be held with holy reverence. I am to regard each of you as I would regard Jesus. You are holy in His sight. Our relationships with each other and with others are holy to Him.

Needing to count each moment and every event as ordained,

Jim Corbett

11/12/13

“It is time to seek truth with all your might so that you walk in it. There is little time to allow perceived truth, personal perspective, and hindering traditions to sway you to hazardous places. Clean up your lives. Be set free from any hindrances that have been part of who you are because of the lies of the enemy, or the clutter that has allowed you to believe something that’s not true.Forgive everyone in your past relationships. Deny access to the familiar lies in your head about who you are, who you are not, or who you can or cannot be.

Seek My Word. Allow it to tell you who I have called you to be. Take the time to allow My Word to change any part of your thinking that is out of order with eternal truth. I am present in it to proclaim what really is and is not. Search for Me. I can be found if you seek Me with all your heart. I will show you absolute truth. You can stake your life on what My Word says. In fact, you must.”

Amos 5:4b AMP

…Seek Me [inquire for and of Me and require Me as you require food] and you shall live!

Mark 4: 24 AMP

And He said to them, Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] that comes back to you – and more [besides] will be given to you who hear.

Colossians 1:9-12 NIV

⁹For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.

¹⁰And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,

¹¹being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully

¹²giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

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Most of the world spends more time picking out their wardrobe than they do deeply investigating what happens after they close their eyes for the last time. In the same way, most of the church walks around in half-truths, perceived notions, and flat-out blind traditions. We cling to teachings with little or no biblical foundation, just because it feels right or ministers to some part of our carnal nature; and never give a thought as to whether or not God is pleased with our foolishness.

We need to get serious. This is serious business—this God business. Every one of us should have only God’s desires as the primary focus of our lives. Whatever it takes, we need to get to really know our God, and what His Word actually says. Then we need to live by it.

Teach me Your truth, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/11/13

“Make sure that you remain diligent while you are waiting for Me to move on your behalf. Your time of waiting is also a time of learning to be obedient in other areas of your life. Complete those things that I have told you to do. Clean up all of the relationships that have been neglected. Become a study of Jesus. Learn about My heart. Bring your house to order so that new assignments can be completed when I give them to you.

Few understand the importance of waiting on Me. I am not only completing patience, diligence, and obedience in you; I am orchestrating many things concerning your life. As soon as everything is in order, you need to be ready to move. There will be work to be done. Prepare while you can. When I call you, I will expect immediate responses. A work of completed patience will bring new faith in Me. Soon you will walk in it.”

Psalm 51:10 AMP

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering and steadfast spirit within me.

Psalm 106:12-15a AMP

¹²Then [Israel] believed His words [trusting in, relying on them]; they sang His praise.

¹³But they hastily forgot His works; they did not [earnestly] wait for His plans [to develop] regarding them.

¹⁴But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness and tempted and tried to restrain God [with their insistent desires] in the desert.

^15aAnd He gave them their request, but sent leanness to their souls…

Isa. 30:18 NIV

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!

Acts 12:6 NIV

The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.

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The picture of Peter shackled to two soldiers and possibly snoring up a storm while waiting for the Lord to move on his behalf is probably one of the most descriptive heart positions of trusting in God ever written. It is a delightful picture of absolute trust in a faithful Father God. It can also, however, portray the wrong picture of what waiting for the Lord to move on our behalf is really all about. Yes, waiting on God most certainly accomplishes quiet, peaceful, steadfast patience in those who are waiting; but much more is also accomplished.

Waiting on God is never a time of sleeping the days away. In fact, it is the opposite of inactivity. Although the primary activity is always seeking the Lord diligently and repenting of revealed sins, especially those of faithlessness and control, many “clean-up” tasks are accomplished during these times.

Waiting is a time of both heart and physical preparation. It is a time of bringing proper order back to your spiritual and physical house. To wait on God is a settling in with the Lord, cleaning your ears so that you can once again hear Him properly, cleaning your house so that you can move when He tells you to move; and sharpening your tools so that you have what is needed for the important tasks ahead. Waiting for the Father to impart what is on His heart for your life imparts His life in the process.

Show me how to wait, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/09/13

“Death and life! You own them both with your life in Jesus. You are called to bring the life you have been given to others. Your words should only be My Words. Your actions should only be His actions. He only gives life!”

Exodus 33:13-16 NIV

¹³“If I have found favor in your eyes, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”

¹⁴The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

¹⁵Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.

¹⁶How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?”

Matt.16:19 AMP

I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind (declare to be improper and unlawful) on earth, must be whatever is already bound in heaven; and whatever you loose (declare lawful) on earth must be what is already loosed in heaven.

Romans 10:9-10 NIV

⁹That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.

¹⁰For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

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So many people have followed the teaching of speaking positive things so that positive things will happen to them. I believe that the Lord wants us to speak His words, which are absolute truth, rather than the words that come from our fears, misunderstandings, or foolish doctrines.

God is in the absolute truth business. There is nothing that He has ever said that cannot be trusted. He is in the life giving business. The life we have been given in Jesus is a life that is available to anyone who desires it. When we talk of Him, we bring the opportunity for life to others. When we serve others through Him, others see the difference between the darkness of the world and the brilliance and the wonder of Him. We do have life to give when we give to others in His Name and His power— through His Word and by our words and actions.

Have me give only life to others, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/08/13

“Jesus! The only Name that is higher than every other name. Any attempt to say that Name in some circles will soon cause great harm to come to you. Soon those, who honor the high esteem that the Name of Jesus carries in the heavenlies, will be cursed, hated, and killed because of its separating power. Although the Name is synonymous with limitless love, it will bring forth the deepest hatred of those who will not bow to it. No other name can separate absolute truth from false religion. By the Name of the Most High Jesus, nations will be brought low, children will be lifted up, and false kingdoms will be destroyed.

Jesus! The only Name that is higher than every other name. Identifying and embracing it with all your heart will bring you untold wisdom and eternal prosperity. Those who throw it in the dirt will experience darkness of the most horrible kind.

Jesus! The only Name that is higher than every other name. The one Name that will soon bring a conclusion to My eternal plans. It is your plumb line for all eternity. It is the bench mark for your very life.

Jesus! The only Name that is higher than every other name. Whether whispered in quiet submission or shouted at the top of your voice, it will move all heaven and earth on your behalf because of its Owner and what He has done. Although He is the One honored for all eternity, He has given you His Name for your sole expression of life. Carry it properly. Cherish it with all your heart. You will soon be amazed at its wondrous power. Although the Name of Jesus will be the catalyst for your persecution, it will be your only place of safety.

Jesus!! The only Name that is higher than every other name.”

Hebrews 1:1-3a AMP

¹IN MANY separate revelations [each of which set forth a portion of the Truth] and in different ways God spoke of old to [our] forefathers in and by the prophets,

²[But] in the last of these days He has spoken to us in [the person of a] Son, Whom He appointed Heir and lawful Owner of all things, also by and through Whom He created the worlds and the reaches of space and the ages of time [He made, produced, built, operated, and arranged them in order].

^3aHe is the sole expression of the glory of God [the Light-being, the out-raying or radiance of the divine], and He is the perfect imprint and very image of [God’s] nature, upholding and maintaining and guiding and propelling the universe by His mighty word of power…

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The bottom line for everything that is unfolding before us is the Name of Jesus and what it stands for. This could mean that those of us who are calling ourselves by His Name may be put to a life and death test in the future. If we honor our commitment to our Lord, we may very well have the honor of living, and possibly dying, in the same way as His first followers did. If we deny Him in any way, the consequences of our foolishness are too horrible to dwell upon.

For a long time, the Lord has been calling those who are His to draw close to Him so that we will be able to stand properly in these coming times. This eternally serious choice is ours to make at this very moment. I am convinced that soon we will have opportunity to deliver to the world the life that we have received from being in His presence, or we will stand open-mouthed and empty-handed with the world, as we attempt to comprehend what has happened in our midst.

Wanting to respond fully to the call to draw near,

Jim Corbett

11/07/13

“Make sure that you are where I want you to be, and with whom I have planned for you to be. It is paramount for the work of your ministry. In the coming times, I will require you to move in My direction and My direction alone, not sidetracked by fleshly emotions and fears. Sometimes, there will be little time to hesitate, when specific directions are given. Controversy between you and those that are with you will be costly. Indecision could be life threatening. Before these times come, you need to cultivate friendships that you can trust. Remember “holy alliances.” As I join you with those who are put together for specific tasks, I will tailor a common heart, so that you can move swiftly and decisively when necessary. In those times, My supernatural power and My wisdom for the moment will be instant and clear to those who have learned to listen to My heart.

Start seeking your companions for reasons other than surface pleasure. Begin to see the nature of others as I see them. Are they looking only for My life to be developed in them? Do they see My kind of integrity as mandatory if they are followers of Jesus? Are they aware of the times and seasons in which they live? Are the priorities for their lives lined up with My Word? Are they trustworthy? These character traits will make the difference between a smooth implementation of My plans, and times of confusion and discord that will waste much needed moments.

Start to ask Me who your friends should be. Let Me bring proper associations to you. When I do, cultivate all interactions to be in line with My Word. Make it your priority to be obedient to Me and to glorify My Name. I will then be present in all that you do.”

Acts 15:36-40 AMP

³⁶And after some time Paul said to Barnabas, Come, let us go back and again visit and help and minister to the brethren in every town where we made known the message of the Lord, and see how they are getting along.

³⁷Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark [his near relative].,/p>

³⁸But Paul did not think it best to have along with them the one who had quit and deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone on with them to the work.

³⁹And there followed a sharp disagreement between them, so that they separated from each other, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus.

⁴⁰But Paul selected Silas and set out, being commended by the brethren to the grace (the favor and mercy) of the Lord.

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So much for unity for the sake of unity. Wimpy, self-serving relationships work for church socials, but when you are about the business of God, the reliability and integrity of those associated with you are very important.

I had the privilege of observing a former gang member scrutinize a fellowship to which I had brought him, while he was making his decision to follow the Lord. I don’t remember his exact words after he met and talked with some of the people, but they were not something I had ever heard before. He inquired as to why he would ever hang around with anyone in that church, stating that none seemed to have enough integrity to be relied upon if he was ever in need.

You see, he had lived with people who had covenanted to be “for” each other in times of need, no matter what the cost. He stated that he knew hundreds of people, some who didn’t even know his name, who - without hesitation - would actually die for him if they were called upon to do so. They were in covenant, one to another, because of their code.

When he observed the church, he could see only surface relationships and empty, hollow greetings of acceptance. (By the way, this man was pointed to Jesus, not people, and serves Him now. He is one of the most trustworthy friends I have ever met. I have observed his life and have learned much from him and one other friend, also a former gang member, who preceded him to the Lord. Few people have the character qualities of these two friends.)

The church knows little about honest relationships with each other and, therefore, few people stand with unquestioned love towards the other in times of need. We shoot our wounded and choose our friends for all the wrong reasons. That will no longer suffice, if we are to move with God in the coming times.

Paul understood the importance of trustworthy relationships in the season that he was called to proclaim God’s Word. To him it was important enough to separate himself from Barnabas, so that he could rely on all his partners in the work that he was called to do. I believe that discernment of God’s kind of character in those with whom we associate will be most critical in times to come. Each of us must pray for the wisdom to choose our friends wisely and separate ourselves from those who serve only themselves and live to fulfill their own needs. The work of the Lord will count on our ability to do so.

Needing the character of Jesus to discern proper character,

Jim Corbett

11/06/13

“How close is your heart to the heart of Jesus? Your answer is very important, so respond carefully. My desire is that it beat in unison with His. Understand this. Your life is really a time of preparation. Please understand how important your goals are as you walk with Me. It is important that you seek to be like Jesus in every way. My goal is to empower you to do so.

In this life, you, My church, prepare for one of three situations, depending on your maturity. You prepare for your personal security, you prepare for war, or you prepare for marriage. Those of you preparing for personal security do only what it takes to spend eternity with Me. You spend your days confident in the work done for you at Calvary, and that is enough. The thought that I desire more for you is rarely in your heart, so you have become immovable and complacent, ill-equipped for even the smallest mission, unless it is for your benefit.

If you are preparing for war, you have chosen to go deeper with Me, understanding that there is much more to your preparation than your personal security. You seek Me with all your heart and live a crucified life, allowing Me to eliminate your carnal nature at every opportunity. You are truly after My heart and My desire. You desire to represent Me with all your heart. You are valiant. I can trust you with much.

Marriage preparation goes much deeper. It has all the characteristics of a warrior, but also includes a cleansed heart that beats with radiant, intense, holy love for Jesus. Your days are filled with preparation for Him as you represent Me. Your focus is His pleasure, as you prepare for His return. Nothing is more important to you than your understanding of His ways, so that your garments are spotless and ready. While you joyfully complete any mission that you are called to do, your eyes are ever looking upward, your heart is always waiting for His call. You have the heart of a waiting bride.”

Matt. 25:1-6 NIV

¹“At that time the Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to met the bridegroom.

²Five of them were foolish and five were wise.

³The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them.

⁴The wise, however, took oil in their jars along with their lamps.

⁵The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

⁶At midnight the cry rang out ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet Him!’”

Rev. 22:17 AMP

The [Holy] Spirit and the bride (the church, the true Christians) say, Come! And let him who is listening say, Come! And let everyone come who is thirsty [who is painfully conscious of his need of those things by which the soul is refreshed, supported and strengthened]: and whoever desires to do it, let him come, take, appropriate, and drink of the water of Life without cost.

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I am convinced that we, as members of the body of Christ, must look past all of the daily distractions, and understand that we should be preparing as if we were getting married soon. Within the church, there are many varied teachings concerning who or what the bride of Christ is. Some say that anyone who is born again is automatically the bride. In Revelation, the bride is represented as a city. Some believe that in the city resides the true bride. Most interpretations have enough Bible verses to back their theory with gusto. True Bible scholars have contended these and other viewpoints for centuries, all convinced that their opinion is correct.

I am certainly no Bible scholar, nor am I an expert in any way. In my study, the only thing I’m sure of is that Jesus Christ is Lord. He is the Messiah who said that one day He will return. We should take comfort in that promise. From that base, however, it seems that the Lord is continually addressing the heart and motive for everything we do as the body of Christ. If that is truth, wouldn’t it be wise for every one of us to seek to position our hearts as close to the heart of Jesus as possible - for His pleasure?

As Jesus desired only to please the Father in every way, we should be doing the same as our daily pursuit; that’s a given. I see that as basic Christianity 101. To make that pursuit complete, however, there are many verses throughout the Word that goad us toward a holy motive, a pure love, a deeper calling — one characterized by the heart of Jesus — that is attainable through the power of God. Wouldn’t Jesus be most blessed if it were our mission to be as much like Him and waiting only for Him as a pure waiting bride? Why would we think He is worthy of anything less if we call Him Lord?

Wanting to have pure motives,

Jim Corbett

11/05/13

“Does anything really move you anymore? Do you care if people are going to be separated from Me for their eternal lives? When was the last time you wept for souls? When did you give up any comfort for the sake of someone hearing My Word? I know some of you are fulfilling My plan for you, but what about those of you who have settled into a mundane spiritual existence? Where is your fire? Your time is considered your own. Your money is yours! My gifts to you make you proud rather than grateful! What is it going to take to wake you up? You are about to find out unless you wake up to My heart! Old manna is no longer nourishing and some of you are starving to death spiritually. Repent now!”

James 1:13-15 AMP

¹³Let no one say when he is tempted, I am tempted from God; for God is incapable of being tempted by [what is] evil and He Himself tempts no one.

¹⁴But every person is tempted when he is drawn away, enticed and baited by his own evil desire (lust, passions).

¹⁵Then the evil desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully matured, brings forth death.

Rev. 3:18-20 AMP

¹⁸Therefore I counsel you to purchase from Me gold refined and tested by fire, that you may be [truly] wealthy, and white clothes to clothe you and to keep the shame of your nudity from being seen, and salve to put on your eyes, that you may see.

¹⁹Those whom I [dearly and tenderly] love, I tell their faults and convict and convince and reprove and chasten [I discipline and instruct them]. So be enthusiastic and in earnest and burning with zeal and repent [changing your mind and attitude].

²⁰Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears and listens to and heeds My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will eat with him, and he [will eat] with Me.

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Human nature has an incredible ability to adapt to almost any conditions. Persecuted Christians, jailed for their beliefs, often prospered spiritually under horrendous conditions. Personal tragedy, in time, becomes palatable memories. Broken hearts and emotions eventually heal, especially with the power of God. We are an adaptable people with an incredible gift.

This ability to become familiar with and adapt has its drawbacks, however, when it comes to the times and seasons in which we live. For many years now, the Lord has been calling His church to prepare, to draw close to the Lord, to weep for souls. The problem with our adaptability is that we have become dull in hearing the message that the Lord is giving. The urgency has lost its sting in many cases. Zeal has been replaced by nonchalance, and in some cases many have fallen into a quiet spiritual death. Some of the children of God are in grave danger. Most don’t even know it.

Wake me up, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/04/13

“Some of you have forgotten why you have been born. Your vision is so clouded that there is little eternal purpose in your life. Because of self-interest, you have complicated My very simple plan. I want you to love Me above everything else, and then love others more than you love yourself. That is what Jesus did. Why would I ask you to live any other way?”

1 John 2:6 AMP

Whoever says he abides in Him ought [as a personal debt] to walk and conduct himself in the same way in which He walked and conducted Himself.

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Have you ever wondered what the above verse really means? I believe it means that whoever says he abides in Him ought [as a personal debt] to walk and conduct himself in the same way in which He walked and conducted Himself.

Help me, Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/02/13

“Even if you’ve made a mistake by forcing your will over Mine in the past, I will cover you. I can and will use your present situation for your good and My glory. Now is the time to repent and submit to My will over yours. Now is the time to obey what you know to be right. Go to My Word and find the truth for your situation. Stop following after the lusts of your flesh by desiring that things would be different.

Grow up! You do what is right to do now. I will honor your obedience. Don’t compound your situation by remaining self-centered and selfish. Work from where you are with My peace in your heart. Decide to please Me. Watch what I can do, if you decide to do what is right because it is right as I see it.”

Psalm 61:2-3 NIV

²From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

³For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.

Psalm 106:12-15 AMP

¹²Then [Israel] believed His words [trusting in, relying on them]; they sang His praise.

¹³But they hastily forgot His works; they did not [earnestly] wait for His plans [to develop] regarding them.

¹⁴But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness and tempted and tried to restrain God [with their insistent desires] in the desert.

¹⁵And He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their souls and [thinned their numbers by] disease and death.

Isaiah 30:21 NIV

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

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I have been pondering this Father’s Heart message in comparison to the message from yesterday. On the surface, there are areas in the two messages that may seem contradictory unless you understand the sovereignty of God and the free will He has given us.

As a loving Father, sometimes He heads us off, keeping us from paths that are harmful to us. Other times, He allows us to experience pitfalls, so that we might learn a valuable lesson. Always, He has our best interests at heart. Always, He is looking for us to develop intimacy with Him.

In the above verses in Psalm 106, it shows that the strong will of a people moved God to grant requests that were not His best for them. Along with their request, however, came a leanness of soul and great pressure on them to turn from their independent, rebellious ways and need Him again.

You are so loving and incredible, my Lord,

Jim Corbett

11/01/13

“I love how many of you are becoming so sensitive to My leading. I know that We’ve talked about this many times, but it really is important to Me. I need to tell everyone that they have been reconciled to Me. You are My missionaries. From My perspective, I know when and where you can be effective. That is where you must be. When you learn to hear Me correctly, I can trust you to be there as My agent.

While you are learning absolute obedience, many times it may appear as if you have made a mistake in following My direction. You may look as if you have missed My will completely. Sometimes that may be the case, but don’t be alarmed. I can handle that. Sometimes, however, you will be exactly where I want you to be and everything still appears as if you did not hear Me properly. Nothing works, nothing fits, and nothing seems right. You may still be in My perfect will.

I may be using you for many reasons that you can’t see at the time, and will possibly never understand. These are the times that you will hear foolish words like “Where He guides, He will provide” from the uninitiated, ignorant, or success-oriented Christian. Many tender, obedient hearts have been stifled by those who don’t understand My ways. I may even be allowing you to appear as a fool, so that I can reveal the unfair judgments and hardened hearts in the lives of those who are watching you. Your reaction to what looks like a mistake on your part is as important as your reaction to success.

Don’t listen to those who have not spent enough time with Me to really hear Me and understand My ways. It will only confuse you and hinder My life from flowing through you. I will take much pleasure in guiding you throughout your time with Me. You continue to learn to listen to My voice and move in obedience. The outcome of your obedience is up to Me. Keep walking, keep trusting. I am pleased. You are My special project! I love seeing you grow up.”

John 7:6,8 NIV

⁶Therefore Jesus told them, “The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right…

⁸You go to the Feast. I am not yet going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come.”

Acts 21:12-14 NIV

¹²When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem.

¹³Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

¹⁴When he would not be dissuaded. We gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”

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Jesus was on a mission. Totally obedient, He moved when and where He was told. Fulfilling prophecies, personifying feasts, He had to count every step as ordained, for it was. No one understood His mission and His reasons for doing much of what He did. His death signified to those who had no understanding that He had definitely made a wrong turn somewhere.

I can’t tell you the number of times I have personally experienced or seen my faith-walking friends standing bare-faced and looking foolish because things seemingly did not work out following a step of obedience. I’m not talking about people making rash decisions. I’m talking about those with honest hearts, who spend months, years, and even more time seeking the Lord for their direction, only to seemingly find no answer after they step out.

Following the Lord does not always result in the American dream kind of ending. Jesus was crucified. Paul did go to jail. Most of the apostles died what appeared to be untimely deaths. Many, many people have been martyrs for the Lord because of their obedience and dedication.

Never let the perceived outcome hinder your ability to praise the Lord - knowing that you have been obedient - or hinder you from moving with Him the next time He calls you to a work. You are on a mission. Many in the church have been nullified by the need to look cool and prosperous. They can’t hear God. He can’t trust them.

You are being taught to hear His voice and move with Him, no matter what the others might do. The remnant heart longs only to please the Lord. Nothing else satisfies.

In the coming season, I am convinced that two functions will determine the true church of Jesus Christ. The first will be absolute obedience to the Lord. Listening and following only Him, the church will move in unison to accomplish His end-time work. The second will be looking only for the Lord. Fully ready, fully prepared, she will be purified and waiting hopefully.

Learning to listen and look,

Jim Corbett