John Ives, 8/07/08 Thursday "Great Grace"; "Oh Come, Let Us Worship and Bow Down"

You have come to a point of decision.  Before you is the door called "break through."  When you pass through this portal, all things shall be changed.   The enemy has held you with weak ties.  Though they are truly weak, he has deceived you into believing that they are strong.  You can easily break free.  He has wrapped your ankles with "can't" chains.  He tells you that you can't.  He has whispered in your mind thoughts to cause you to doubt and question your abilities and rights.  He tells you that you are weak and unworthy.  Of course he is a liar, but his tactic is to get you to look at yourself as you are in the natural.   He twists the truth to cause you to focus upon only what you can see and do in the flesh.  That is not the way you walk with Me.  You walk with Me because of My strength and because you are worthy in Me.  There are those around you that tell you, "Don't go."  Some won't pass through the doorway marked "change" because they fear uncertainty while others won't go because they like the way they are.  They want to keep you with them.  Without realizing it, you have embraced their thinking.  You MUST choose between staying in the gray, comfortable life that you have known or breaking through into My bright, glorious, exciting (and yes, frightening) new life.  The supernatural is frightening at first.  It will mean a new level of trust and believing in order for the clouds of uncertainty to clear and the manifestation of My glory to come.  The answer to all the "I cannot's" is "I will!"  Forsake all your religious thinking.  Drop off all the weights that you have been carrying.  Confess whatever sins My Spirit reveals.  Break the power of the curse.  Believe that My Blood is covering all your sins, and loose yourself into a new freedom.  Walk through the gateway into spontaneous joy and peace.  Trust Me to guide you.  Believe My Spirit's prompting.  You shall find that place which you have been yearning.

Ps 119:105 (KJV)  Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Pr 22:24-25 (RSV)  ²⁴ Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, ²⁵ lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.

2 Cor 6:14-18 (RSV) ¹⁴ Do not be mismated with unbelievers. For what partnership have righteousness and iniquity? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? ¹⁵ What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? ¹⁶ What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, "I will live in them and move among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  ¹⁷ Therefore come out from them, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch nothing unclean; then I will welcome you, ¹⁸ and I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."

Pr 29:25 (RSV)  The fear of man lays a snare, but he who trusts in the LORD is safe.

1 Tim 6:9-10 (RSV) ⁹ But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰ For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs.

Jas 1:19-20 (RSV) ¹⁹ Know this, my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, ²⁰ for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God.

John Ives, 7/31/08 Thursday "You Deserve the Glory"; "I Am Redeemed"

Behold, I have brought you to Shiloh and given your portion to you. If you are careful to walk blameless in My sight, I shall cause you to dwell in peace and security.  I shall make you to prosper in every work of your hand.  In happiness you shall enjoy good success.  My blessing and anointing shall rest upon you.  Many shall come from great distances to see the work of the Lord and shall return rejoicing in the joy of the Lord.  I shall impart My wisdom and counsel and many shall seek answers to the perplexities that surround them.  My hand shall be strong upon you and My virtue shall come upon those who come believing for a miracle.  My favor shall rest upon you and uncommon doors and access shall open to you.  I shall be your rear guard and bring all things together for My Name's sake.  Old issues shall finally be resolved.  All these things I shall do as you remain humbly at My feet.  Believe Me for great things.  Ask Me to enlarge your vision.  Your present circumstances are not your future.  You shall be caught up in the whirlwind of My glory and all things shall swiftly change.  I shall rearrange your life and bring new opportunities and connections.  The doorway is open.  Walk into the new office that I have prepared for you.  Speak your future into the now.  Expect some surprises this week.

Ps 16:11 (RSV) Thou dost show me the path of life; in thy presence there is fulness of joy, in thy right hand are pleasures for evermore.

Pr 4:18 (RSV)  But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.

Jos 18:1 (RSV) Then the whole congregation of the people of Israel assembled at Shiloh, and set up the tent of meeting there; the land lay subdued before them.

John Ives, 7/24/08 Thursday "I Love You, Lord"; "Sing Alleluia to the Lord";

"Let the Glory of the Lord Rise Among Us"; "You Deserve the Glory"

It is through adversity and affliction that you learn to be content in Me alone.  The lesson to be learned is that I am the all-sufficient One, whether I choose to allow you to suffer lack or shower you with abundance.  It's developing an attitude of gratitude.  When I become your great reward, then the allure of other things grows dim.  It is sad that so few seek Me for whom I am, rather than what I can do for them.  They don't hunger after Me because they have never tasted of My sweetness.  They only see Me through the eyes of religion.  They know ABOUT Me, but don't truly know Me.  That is why I honored David, for he was a man after My own heart.  He knew the sweet pleasures of basking in My presence.  I seek those who will worship Me in spirit and truth.  There're too many who come before Me with the soul and a deceitful heart.  Don't they know that I see their hearts?  They need My Spirit to show them what is of the soul and what is of their spirit.  Too often it is the blind leading the blind.  They don't seek because they don't see.  That is why I am raising you up.  I have called you to be "peculiar."  That not only means that you are to be different, but also that people won't always understand you.  They expect you to perform according to what they have seen and understood.  Those who are not in the spirit will call peculiar people strange, weird or crazy.  John the baptist didn't fit the mold of the religious and yet he was the herald of a new age dawning.  Be done with the ordinary.  Don't become mired down with common, everyday life.  We have work to do and your part will mostly consist of staying at My feet and being My witness.  As you abide there, I shall fill your heart with joy and you shall have a spirit of worship within you that will continually offer up the sweet fragrance of your sacrifice before Me.  Let go of trying to wrangle with your present circumstances and CHOOSE to enter My rest.  Look beyond to what I have already promised you and truly believe that I WILL bring to pass all that I have spoken.  It doesn't matter how long I take.  It doesn't matter if there are but a few with you now.  I spoke your future before you were born.  Don't you realize that it's all about Me and I have chosen you to be a part of My amazing, mysterious kingdom that shall be revealed?  I am much more than pat answers and proof texts.  I will reveal Myself to those who go beyond allowing Me to be a casual acquaintance.  Let go of expecting Me just for provision and look to Me for ABUNDANCE!  That means more than money.  It means abundance in every aspect of your life.  Especially expect abundance in My anointing and My love.  When you are at My feet, My glory drenches you.  Others will sense the glory and acknowledge that what is within you is real, though they don't understand it.  They shall be drawn as honeybees seek the sweet nectar of a beautiful flower.  My goodness shall draw men's hearts to repentance.  I shall knit you together with others who share the burning of your heart.  Expect a new season of spiritual and natural abundance even in the midst of drought around you.  I'm talking SOON!  Look up!

Eph 2: 4-7 (AMP) ⁴ But God — so rich is He in His mercy! Because of and in order to satisfy the great and wonderful and intense love with which He loved us, ⁵ Even when we were dead (slain) by [our own] shortcomings and trespasses, He made us alive together in fellowship and in union with Christ; [He gave us the very life of Christ Himself, the same new life with which He quickened Him, for] it is by grace (His favor and mercy which you did not deserve) that you are saved (delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ's salvation). ⁶ And He raised us up together with Him and made us sit down together [giving us joint seating with Him] in the heavenly sphere [by virtue of our being] in Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed One).  ⁷ He did this that He might clearly demonstrate through the ages to come the immeasurable (limitless, surpassing) riches of His free grace (His unmerited favor) in [His] kindness and goodness of heart toward us in Christ Jesus.

1 Jn 4:17 (AMP)  In this [union and communion with Him] love is brought to completion and attains perfection with us, that we may have confidence for the day of judgment [with assurance and boldness to face Him], because as He is, so are we in this world.

John Ives, 7/17/08 Thursday "We Are Climbing Jacob's Ladder"; "Come Thou Fount";

"Jesus, Name Above All Names"; "You Deserve the Glory"

When you worship Me from your innermost part, your spirit, then we have fellowship as One.  Man's attempts do not come close because they do not offer their WHOLE heart.    It is in those times of fellowship, away from the cares and distractions of the day, that I can whisper My love and comfort and a bond grows between us.  The ultimate goal of marriage is intimate "oneness" with each other.  So also is My ultimate goal for you.  A deep, abiding assurance grows and you can truly say, "I am My beloved and He is mine!  His banner over me is love!"  You shall walk continually under a canopy of My love.  When our love abounds within you -- you for Me and I for you, then it is EASY to draw near Me and have complete confidence that I hear you and will surely answer you.  You know that the answer is already there and words become secondary.  Then you have great authority for you truly can speak in My name and KNOW that I say "Amen."  Then whatever you bind or loose has already been bound or loosed in heaven because of our intimate walk of communion.  Those who have been married for a long time have grown to know each other and can sense each other's thoughts by a look, a gesture or just from experience.  We have a reservoir of experience and from this "knowing" we share a deep language.  This is what I mean by "knowing My ways."  You have invested the time to learn My ways and the dividend is an understanding of life in My kingdom.  How could anyone believe that they would have the wisdom to reign with Me without diligently seeking it out?  I give this wisdom to those who CHOOSE to draw near Me with their WHOLE hearts.  The time for preparation is BEFORE the storm.  When trying times come, those who have walked with Me in this manner shall have the strength to stand.  Pour out this wisdom to those who will listen.  Point the way to Me.  There is an open heaven above you.  I shall draw many to hear.  They are truly thirsting in a dry and parched land.

NOTE:  SEE ADDITONAL WORDS AFTER SCRIPTURES BELOW

Gen 28:12-13 (RSV) ¹² And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it! ¹³ And behold, the LORD stood above it and said, "I am the LORD, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and to your descendants;

There is an open heaven, a portal, a sanctuary, and a highway to God NOW.

You are NOW in the appointed place and at the appointed time.

1 Sa 7:10-12 (RSV) ¹⁰ As Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to attack Israel; but the LORD thundered with a mighty voice that day against the Philistines and threw them into confusion; and they were routed before Israel. ¹¹ And the men of Israel went out of Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, as far as below Bethcar. ¹² Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Jeshanah, and called its name Ebenezer; for he said, "Hitherto the LORD has helped us."

As you worship, God will shout and the enemy shall be confused and scatter.

2 Kings 13:18-19 (RSV) ¹⁸ And he said, "Take the arrows"; and he took them. And he said to the king of Israel, "Strike the ground with them"; and he struck three times, and stopped. ¹⁹ Then the man of God was angry with him, and said, "You should have struck five or six times; then you would have struck down Syria until you had made an end of it, but now you will strike down Syria only three times."

2 Kings 4:3-6 (RSV)  ³ Then he said, "Go outside, borrow vessels of all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. ⁴ Then go in, and shut the door upon yourself and your sons, and pour into all these vessels; and when one is full, set it aside." ⁵ So she went from him and shut the door upon herself and her sons; and as she poured they brought the vessels to her. ⁶ When the vessels were full, she said to her son, "Bring me another vessel." And he said to her, "There is not another." Then the oil stopped flowing.

You will be blessed in the same measure as your preparation to receive it.

Your vision is too small.

John Ives, 7/14/08 Monday "I Need Thee"

Come away, My beloved.  Come to My hiding place, safe within My arms.      Cast all your cares upon Me.  Do not look upon their madness.  Don't listen to their railings.  It's not about you.  It's about Me.  They hate Me, so they also hate you.  Do not be fearful of their threats.  My righteousness shall be your shield.  My peace shall be your comfort.  My presence shall be your joy.  My love shall be your covering.  Surely I shall guard you in the palm of My hand.  Draw strength from My voice.  Don't let your assurance be shaken.  They lash out blindly in their ignorance, but their true source is hell itself.  The enemy is the father of lies.  He uses the voices of men.  He has deceived their hearts.  They are pawns in his hands.  His schemes shall be as straw before the scorching flames of My righteousness.  I shall surely vindicate My children for My Holy Name's sake.  I shall answer their cry.  Be bold in the strength of your Lord.  Don't let these tactics cause you to become distracted and stop you from completing the course that I have given you.  Be faithful and I shall confirm your words with mighty works that shall shut the mouths of the scoffers.  Rejoice!  You wouldn't be under attack unless you were a threat to the kingdom of darkness.  They know your name, but more importantly, I know your name!  Take courage and be of good cheer!

Is 30:15 (RSV)  For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, "In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength."

Deut 9:1-4 (RSV) ¹ "Hear, O Israel; you are to pass over the Jordan this day, to go in to dispossess nations greater and mightier than yourselves, cities great and fortified up to heaven, ² a people great and tall, the sons of the Anakim, whom you know, and of whom you have heard it said, 'Who can stand before the sons of Anak?' ³ Know therefore this day that he who goes over before you as a devouring fire is the LORD your God; he will destroy them and subdue them before you; so you shall drive them out, and make them perish quickly, as the LORD has promised you. ⁴ "Do not say in your heart, after the LORD your God has thrust them out before you, 'It is because of my righteousness that the LORD has brought me in to possess this land'; whereas it is because of the wickedness of these nations that the LORD is driving them out before you.

Deut 10:12-14,16,20-21 (RSV) ¹² "And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, ¹³ and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I command you this day for your good? ¹⁴ Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it; ¹⁶ Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn. ²⁰ You shall fear the LORD your God; you shall serve him and cleave to him, and by his name you shall swear. ²¹ He is your praise; he is your God, who has done for you these great and terrible things which your eyes have seen.

John Ives, 7/13/08 Sunday "Holy, Holy, Holy Are You, Lord"; "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus"

Woe to him who shuts up his ears to My voice and listens to the counsel of his hardened heart.  You presume upon My grace and squander My mercy.  You have set your eyes upon worldly things and do not give heed to My warnings.  You rob from the poor and for sport you twist others lives.  Be very careful, for in your wrath you revile what you do not understand.  You are setting yourself against Me.  Oh foolish man!  You are not contending with man, but with God!  The fruit that you are bearing is bringing a harvest of judgment.  Surely My wrath shall quickly be stirred.  Will I, in My mercy, shorten your days that you not fall into great transgression, and that without remedy?  Repent and turn from your wickedness.  Do works that prove repentance.  Seek forgiveness and reconciliation from all those whom you have destroyed.  Pray that I restore that which has been lost.  It is the folly of this age that men believe a lie and do not consider that they are but dust!  They have a premonition of impending calamity, but choose to ignore it and follow their own vain imaginations.  Many shall be swept away on that great and terrible Day.  What good will position or riches be when they meet the Judge of all creation?  Shake yourself and turn from your wickedness before it is too late!  Come to your senses!  The hour is late.  There is an appointed time that only I know.  I see the hearts of all men.  Wake up and be careful, lest your tongue seal your fate.  Do not put off your opportunity for a later time.  It may never come.  That's too big a gamble to make.  Do not refuse My mercy.  I can turn your life around from the brink of the pit.  Come humbly to Me NOW!

Jer 23:24 (RSV)  Can a man hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? says the LORD. Do I not fill heaven and earth? says the LORD.

1 Chr 6:22 (AMP)  Touch not My anointed, and do My prophets no harm.

1 Jn 2:27 (AMP)  But as for you, the anointing (the sacred appointment, the unction) which you received from Him abides [permanently] in you; [so] then you have no need that anyone should instruct you. But just as His anointing teaches you concerning everything and is true and is no falsehood, so you must abide in (live in, never depart from) Him [being rooted in Him, knit to Him], just as [His anointing] has taught you [to do].

John Ives, 7/10/08 Thursday "O, for a Thousand Tongues"; "Spirit of the Living God, Fall Fresh on Me"

It's time for you to declare that you are free from dependence on the world, the hand of man, and your own ingenuity.  I told you that you are to be IN the world but not OF the world.  Your problems come when you embrace the world.  If you are looking to the world, then you will get what the world gives. The world gives you lack, stress, anxiety and strife.  I give you life in abundance.  Don't look to man to satisfy what only I can give.  Your cleverness and plans will not bring you into My perfect plan for your life.  Only My Spirit can reveal what I have planned for you.  Only He can bring it to pass.  The work begun in the Spirit cannot be completed in the flesh.  He will guide your steps and give you illumination.  You must be able to hear Him point you in the right direction.  This means that you must be free of distractions, focused upon the task at hand and your heart clear and clean before Me.  Don't covet how I am moving in someone else's life.  They are not you.  I have a unique plan just for you.  I am the only one that fully knows you.  I have fashioned a destiny that only you may fulfill.  Part of that destiny is what you shall DO, but most of it is what you shall BECOME.  It's part "Martha" and part "Mary."  I am calling you to walk with Me in the natural and the supernatural, the temporal and the eternal.  The kingdom within shall be manifested without.  Remarkable signs and wonders shall testify that My presence is in their midst.  Don't become frustrated.  It shall come at the perfect time and place.   Keep the faith.  Enjoy the moment.  Everything is coming together. 

Gal 4:1-10 (MSG) ¹ Let me show you the implications of this. As long as the heir is a minor, he has no advantage over the slave. Though legally he owns the entire inheritance, ² he is subject to tutors and administrators until whatever date the father has set for emancipation. ³ That is the way it is with us: When we were minors, we were just like slaves ordered around by simple instructions (the tutors and administrators of this world), with no say in the conduct of our own lives.  ⁴ But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. ⁵ Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. ⁶ You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" ⁷ Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance.  ⁸ Earlier, before you knew God personally, you were enslaved to so-called gods that had nothing of the divine about them. ⁹ But now that you know the real God—or rather since God knows you—how can you possibly subject yourselves again to those paper tigers?

1 Jn 2:15-17 (AMP) ¹⁵ Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. ¹⁶ For all that is in the world — the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratification] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mind] and the pride of life [assurance in one's own resources or in the stability of earthly things] — these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself]. ¹⁷ And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden cravings (the passionate desires, the lust) of it; but he who does the will of God and carries out His purposes in his life abides (remains) forever.

John Ives, 6/26/08 Thursday "We Sing Praises to Your Name": "I Am the God That Healeth Thee"; "Love, Love, Love, Love": "He Was Wounded for Our Transgressions"

Why do men seek relief of mere symptoms, yet do not cry out to Me to touch the source of their afflictions.  To be made WHOLE is greater than to be healed.  The cry of many is, "Save me from my calamity!"  They do not receive relief because they will not acknowledge that they "own" the reason for their troubles.  Their pride prevents them from total cleansing and restoration.  They look only at the results and not at the cause.  I have come to bring SALVATION, which means to be made completely whole.  Out of My great mercy, I may grant healing for the moment, yet I desire to address the issues that lie beneath - deep seated wounds, hurts, disappointments, inner vows and bitterness.  If these remain, then a greater woe awaits.  Their presence is like a wild animal waiting in hiding for the right opportunity.  Suddenly they present themselves, yet they have been at work all the time, fomenting affliction to the body and soul.  Often they become an inviting gate for the hordes of hell.  If one comes to me with a humble and contrite heart then I may speak to the root and it withers.  I am calling you to be My voice and My hands and to deliver My people from their self-inflicted wounds.  They are indeed perishing from lack of knowledge.

Acts 8:23 (RSV)  For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.

Deut 29:18-23 (RSV) 18 Beware lest there be among you a man or woman or family or tribe, whose heart turns away this day from the LORD our God to go and serve the gods of those nations; lest there be among you a root bearing poisonous and bitter fruit, 19 one who, when he hears the words of this sworn covenant, blesses himself in his heart, saying, 'I shall be safe, though I walk in the stubbornness of my heart.' This would lead to the sweeping away of moist and dry alike. 20 The LORD would not pardon him, but rather the anger of the LORD and his jealousy would smoke against that man, and the curses written in this book would settle upon him, and the LORD would blot out his name from under heaven.

Heb 12:15 (AMP)  Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it.

Heb 3:12-15 (RSV)  ¹² Take care, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. ¹³ But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called "today," that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. ¹⁴ For we share in Christ, if only we hold our first confidence firm to the end, ¹⁵ while it is said, "Today, when you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion."

Pr 26:2 (AMP)  Like the sparrow in her wandering, like the swallow in her flying, so the causeless curse does not alight.

1Tim 6:6-10 (AMP) ⁶ [And it is, indeed, a source of immense profit, for] godliness accompanied with contentment (that contentment which is a sense of inward sufficiency) is great and abundant gain. ⁷ For we brought nothing into the world, and obviously we cannot take anything out of the world; ⁸ But if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content (satisfied). ⁹ But those who crave to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and into many foolish (useless, godless) and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction and miserable perishing. ¹⁰ For the love of money is a root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have been led astray and have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves through with many acute [mental] pangs. 11 But as for you, O man of God, flee from all these things; aim at and pursue righteousness (right standing with God and true goodness), godliness (which is the loving fear of God and being Christlike), faith, love, steadfastness (patience), and gentleness of heart.

John Ives, 6/18/08 Wednesday "My Tribute"; "You Deserve the Glory"; "Father, We Love You";"Agnes Dei"

Arise and soar upon the wind as the eagles.  Storm clouds are beginning to gather.  Loose yourself from all that would hold you down.  It's time to change your attitude and your altitude.  It's time to change your focus from the horizontal to the vertical.  Spread forth your wings and be born aloft by My Spirit.  Let go of anxiety, cares and worry.  Release yourself into My arms.  You shall see yourself and your circumstances from a new perspective.  No longer shall you be content with once and a while encounters with Me.  When you become one with My Spirit, you shall continually bear My presence.  It's a new dimension and a new realm.  It's not a visitation.  It's a habitation.  Come beyond the veil.  Journey on a spiritual quest.  Become your destiny.    Once you taste of My goodness, you shall have no problem forsaking lesser things.  The world is crying out for a true manifestation of the living God.  Even the cynical and unbelieving can be touched.  I am calling you to a new level.  Ascend into My glory cloud and be changed in your heart and countenance.  You were born for this time.  Let us share sweet fellowship together.  I need to impart strategies and wisdom for the times that are approaching.  Time is suspended when you are with Me.  The effects of age and the buffeting of the enemy shall be reversed.  The strength of your youth shall return.  Sense the electricity in the air.  Catch the wind and come away for a season of refreshing.  The time is brief and you must become prepared.  Lift up your eyes.  Stretch your wings.  Jump and soar today!

Jas 1:19 (AMP)  Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.

Jas 1:19 (MSG) Post this at all the intersections, dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear.

Acts 17:11 (RSV)  Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with all eagerness, examining the scriptures daily to see if these things were so.

1 Th 2:13  (RSV) And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.

Pr 8:32-35 (RSV) ³² And now, my sons, listen to me: happy are those who keep my ways. ³³ Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. ³⁴ Happy is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. ³⁵ For he who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD;

Pr 2:1-7 (RSV) ¹ My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, ² making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; ³ yes, if you cry out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, ⁴ if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures; ⁵ then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. ⁶ For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; ⁷ he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, ⁸ guarding the paths of justice and preserving the way of his saints. ⁹ Then you will understand righteousness and justice and equity, every good path;

John Ives, 6/05/08 Thursday AFTERNOON "Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord"; " I Stand in Awe"; "Jesus, Name Above All Names"; "You Deserve the Glory” "; "Bless the Lord, O My Soul"; " O Come' Let Us Adore Him"

You need to stop speaking your circumstances and start speaking My promise!  Acknowledge your circumstances, but always add the phrase, "But God has said...."  It's not ignoring to see, but CHOOSING to declare that I am well able to bring what I have said to pass.  Believing brings seeing.  Satan will always tell you the worst.  The world will not believe you nor celebrate your success.  Darkness hates the light and flees from it.  You cannot expect to rise above your circumstances with the weight of the world on your shoulders.  "Let go and let God."  Faith possesses the promise before fact acknowledges that it has come to pass.  When confessing with the mouth becomes settled fact in your heart, then Reality will be manifested in your hand.  My words are seeds that sprout and flourish when they are planted in an honest and good heart and watered by My Spirit.  A leader is one that perseveres in spite of fears within and adversity without.  The fearful and unbelieving are judged with the wicked.  There is really no other choice than to trust wholly and obey Me.  I receive glory when My children bear much fruit.  The only path to much fruit is discipleship.  Denying and dying to self is the entrance to that path as well as the daily disciplines that cultivate the ground.  This is not the time for the faint hearted.  Just a little longer and the harvest shall come in.  It's the due season for the diligent.  Blessed are they that reap the fruit of their labors in this season.  They have counted the cost, paid the price, laid down their hopes and ambitions and chosen My life over theirs.  They shall have their reward in this life and a crown of glory in the age to come.  Many people are searching for the kingdom of God.  They go near and far from church to church and meeting to meeting.  You have the kingdom.  It's in your midst.  Stop hoping for the future.  Create it today by enthroning Me on your praise!

Phil 1:6 (KJV)  Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

1 Th 5:24 (KJV) Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

John Ives, 6/05/08 Thursday "Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord"; " I Stand in Awe";

"Jesus, Name Above All Names"; "You Deserve the Glory”

Set your mind upon Me and let the innermost longings of your heart cry out for My touch and you shall see Me move on your behalf.  I know your needs and desires before you speak.  I see the thoughts and intents of your heart.  My ear is not dull that it does not hear your cry.  My eyes are always upon you.  Focus your attention upon Me and what I am doing in the earth.  I am not sitting back and waiting.  I am at work even now, but you are not aware.  I neither sleep nor slumber.  My will and purpose is being fulfilled!  My kingdom is coming!  Nothing takes Me by surprise.  I saw the ending of all things from the beginning.  I hold the universe and time itself within My hands.  Do you hear the sound of rain?  Do you see the clouds forming?  I shall yet pour out My Spirit in a Mighty torrent.  Waves upon waves shall form.  Believe Me for these things while your eyes yet do not see.  I am not a man that I should lie.  Trust Me to have you at the right place at the right time.  Do you hear the roar of many voices, a great congregation?  Be faithful in the small things.  Great and mighty things are coming.  I have begun the work.  I shall finish it.  Trust and obey.  Rest in Me.  Be open to My counsel in many unexpected ways.  I used the ravens to feed the prophet when there was a drought.  I can get what you need even though things seem impossible.  It's My nature to do the supernatural.  Believe Me for it!

Phil 1:6 (KJV)  Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

1 Th 5:24 (KJV) Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

John Ives, 5/29/08 Thursday "Thy Lovingkindness is Better Than Life" ; "I Stand in Awe";

"Holy Ground"

Why do men believe that I am pleased with a halfhearted commitment, halfhearted lip service and halfhearted worship?  The first and great commandment is still in effect.  I have never changed My mind.  I still am looking for love that flows from lives totally given to Me: "all your heart, all your soul and all your mind."  They even preach a half-hearted gospel.  Sure, they say the right words, but their hearts speak another message.  If you will give Me your whole heart and worship, I shall cause the fragrance of that worship to spread throughout the whole earth.  I shall manifest My might and My Shekinah presence shall truly abide with you.  The anointing that shall rest upon your worship shall say to the lost, "Repent, for the kingdom of God has come neigh you!"  They know in their heart the difference between religion and the Real.  As long as the worship remains, wherever you go, so shall the anointing abide.  Sweet fellowship, peace and joy shall come.  Your countenance shall reflect what is happening within.  I shall cause a spirit of hunger to draw men to you.  Watch and pray that nothing robs you of your communion with Me.  Don't allow worry, fears, circumstances, well meaning friends or family to steal your joy.  Start the fire upon the altar.  Be consumed with the promise of being filled with My fullness.  Forsake the call of this present age.  No good thing will I withhold from My children.  Seize the kingdom and make it yours today.

Phil 3:12 (NLT)  I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection! But I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be.

John Ives, 5/22/08 Thursday

 "I Will Worship You"; "I Exalt Thee"; "Glory to the Lamb"; "We Sing Praises to Your Name"

When will you quit trying to find your way and let Me guide your steps?  Complete surrender to My will brings peace and release from the responsibility of figuring out the next step.  It gives contentment in the moment, be it great and "spiritual" or plain and "boring."   Though they may not seem significant, the little things in life are just as important as the "big" things.  Patience and trust shout your love and devotion to Me.  They are the bedrock that faith rests upon.  Just because nothing seems to be happening, it doesn't mean that things aren't taking place that you are not aware of.  I am always at work in all things to bring forth My good and perfect will.  Often what appears to be delays or detours are there to make time and space for what I am bringing.  You must have time for the word that is within you to be breathed upon by My Spirit and germinate a seed that will be part of your destiny.  I am also working in others hearts that shall be part of your destiny.  Don't become frustrated and murmur and complain.  Just be satisfied with where I have placed you today, but don't let the hope that I have placed within your heart to become dim.  Hold fast to what I have promised you and believe.  The vision will not be late.  Your joy will be full.  Cherish it and look for what I am doing today.

Col 3:1-8 (MSG) ¹ So if you're serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. ² Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective. ³ Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. ⁴ When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you'll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ. ⁵ And that means killing off everything connected with that way of death: sexual promiscuity, impurity, lust, doing whatever you feel like whenever you feel like it, and grabbing whatever attracts your fancy. That's a life shaped by things and feelings instead of by God. ⁶ It's because of this kind of thing that God is about to explode in anger. ⁷ It wasn't long ago that you were doing all that stuff and not knowing any better. ⁸ But you know better now, so make sure it's all gone for good: bad temper, irritability, meanness, profanity, dirty talk.

Jn 15:1-12 (KJV) ¹ I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. ² Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. ³ Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. ⁴ Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. ⁵ I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. ⁶ If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. ⁷ If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. ⁸ Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. ⁹ As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. ¹⁰ If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. ¹¹ These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. ¹² This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

John Ives, 5/14/08 Wednesday "Thy Word is a Lamp Unto My Feet"

How long?  How long?  How long shall My forbearance be tried?  Do men not see the harvest that they are storing up for themselves? Has their eyesight become dim that they do not see calamity approaching?  Their wickedness has taken them down the road to perdition.  Where are the voices crying out for mercy?  Where is the dread fear of judgment?  The stench of wickedness and arrogance has arisen before Me.  The thoughts of men are only upon making their way through life.  As it is in the world, so is it in the church.  I search for a remnant that still has the fire burning within them.  Though the embers are smoldering, they haven't gone out.  I look for the sheep that have become disillusioned and discouraged.   Who will shed their garments, soiled by the world and be clothed in a new robe?  Where is he that will stand in their behalf?  When shall My people take to heart that I am not in the refurbishing business, but in the business of Resurrection?  I sent My Son to die so that they too may die to themselves and be raised into His likeness.  For the fear of offending some, My church has compromised My clear message of denying self and following Me with the whole heart.  My word is a sword.  There will be pain when it cuts.  Obedience comes through suffering.  Without obedience there is rebellion.  Those who live their lives for themselves are in rebellion to Me and shall one day hear Me say, "Depart from Me!"   On that day all shall be revealed.  Do not fear men, but warn them that there is a Day of Judgment coming.  Call them to repent.  The time is short.  The harvest season is here.  Wake those who are slumbering.  Urge them to break free from the snares that have entangled them.

Ps 119:105 (KJV)  Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path

Dan 2:20-22 (KJV) ²⁰ Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: ²¹ And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: ²² He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.

Dan 2:21 (NLT)  He determines the course of world events; he removes kings and sets others on the throne.

Mal 2:17 (AMP)  You have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet you say, In what way have we wearied Him? [You do it when by your actions] you say, Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord and He delights in them. Or [by asking], Where is the God of justice?

Mt 12:33-37 (RSV) ³³ "Either make the tree good, and its fruit good; or make the tree bad, and its fruit bad; for the tree is known by its fruit. ³⁴ You brood of vipers! how can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. ³⁵ The good man out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. 36 I tell you, on the day of judgment men will render account for every careless word they utter; ³⁷ for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

John Ives, 5/07/08 Wednesday "You Deserve the Glory"; "You’ve Got to Let Go and Let God Have His Way"

Where is My peace in your heart?  Has it been weeded out by anxiety, frustration or busyness?  Have you allowed your "to-do" list to rule your life?  Don't you think that if I have called you to a task, I am able to order your life and bring it to pass?  Has mental effort taken over the place that My Spirit deserves?  It's all right to make your plans, but remember to commit them to Me.  Don't try to over commit your life.  Instead, look to Me to see what I am doing.  You must reserve the best of your time to come away and fellowship with Me.  What good is getting your list done at the expense of walking in My ways?  You'll find that you can do far more in My strength than yours.  Let go of anxiety.  If you are truly abiding in My Son, just say the word and things will come into order at your command.  Peace be upon you!  Unload your burdens from your shoulders.  They keep you from raising your hands to Me in praise.  If you abide in a spirit of worship toward Me, I shall direct your steps.  All that needs to get done happens.  Don't worry about what is coming.  I know what is ahead and I have everything under control.  Again I say, peace!

1 Th 5:18 (AMP) Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

1 Th 5: 23-24 (AMP) ²³ And may the God of peace Himself sanctify you through and through [separate you from profane things, make you pure and wholly consecrated to God]; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved sound and complete [and found] blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). ²⁴ Faithful is He Who is calling you [to Himself] and utterly trustworthy, and He will also do it [fulfill His call by hallowing and keeping you].

Col 3:14-17 (AMP) ¹⁴ And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. ¹⁵ And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. ¹⁶ Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts. ¹⁷ And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.

John Ives, 5/01/08 Thursday "Jesus, Name Above All Names"; "At the Cross"

I have hidden My wisdom from the slothful.  They that are wise shall diligently seek it out.  They shall reign in this age and the next, for My wisdom is bound within My Son.  The keys to the kingdom are found within this wisdom, but they must be sought earnestly.  They that find these keys shall rule over their lives and share in My house.  To them shall I grant a spirit of revelation and insight.  They shall earn their reward through pressing hard to enter in.  There are many mysteries to My ways that shall unfold before their eyes.  Their understanding shall become keen through learning to hear My voice in the midst of the clamor and distraction of the world.  They shall become overcomers and earn the right to reign with My Son.  They shall instruct many in the paths of righteousness.  Their hearts shall become one with Me.  They shall be My messengers bearing the true intent of My heart.  They shall be both kings and priests and have authority and favor.  The voice from heaven shall be "Amen!"  Their heart shall take delight in bringing Me pleasure.  My sweet fellowship and communion shall accompany them.  Call forth a spirit of hungering for men to know Me.  Be aglow with the radiance that comes through our time together.  Draw My children in.  Show them the Way.

1 Pet 3:21 (RSV)  Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

Rom 7:18;22-25;8:1-2;5-9 (RSV) ¹⁸ For I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot do it. ²² For I delight in the law of God, in my inmost self, ²³ but I see in my members another law at war with the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin which dwells in my members. ²⁴ Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? ²⁵ Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I of myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin. ¹ There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. ² For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set me free from the law of sin and death.  ⁵ For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. ⁶ To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. ⁷ For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law, indeed it cannot; ⁸ and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. ⁹ But you are not in the flesh, you are in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Any one who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.

Col 3:1-3 (RSV) ¹ If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. ² Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. ³ For you have died, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

John Ives, 4/24/08 Thursday "Thank You, Lord"; "I Love Him"; "I Stand in Awe"; "Glory, Glory, Halleluiah"

Don't worry about who will follow.  Just be faithful.  It's not about others.  It's about our walk together.  Though many shall come, their time is not yet.  A great, roaring fire must first be kindled.  Before the kindling comes the spark.  Before the fire burns in others, there must be a fire in your belly that cannot be quenched.  The kindling is an honest and good heart that is yearning and available.  The Spark has struck the kindling.  The Wind has blown across the embers.  The Flame is there.  Let it consume you!  Allow it to burn away all that doesn't belong there.  The pure Fire shall become a Burning Bush that shall draw others.  The smoke that arises shall be a sweet aroma to My nostrils.  I desire a living sacrifice of hearts that are consumed with love for Me.  They shall draw My people through simple obedience to My leading.  True worship shall be at the core, not only as they are gathered together, but through all of their lives.  I shall honor their sacrifice with abundant increase.  I shall give My approval to their testimony through signs and wonders.  My plan always works.  Seek to hear My voice and obey.  Love the sheep that I draw to you.  Care for them with a fatherly love.  I shall build My kingdom in the midst of an evil and perverse generation.  Your eyes shall behold My mighty Hand at work.  Come and labor together with Me.

Phil 2:19-21 (RSV) ¹⁹  I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I may be cheered by news of you.  ²⁰   I have no one like him, who will be genuinely anxious for your welfare.  ²¹  They all look after their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.

Mt 2r:36-40 (RSV) ³⁶ "Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" ³⁷ And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. ³⁸ This is the great and first commandment. ³⁹ And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. ⁴⁰ On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets."

Jas 4:4 (AMP)  You [are like] unfaithful wives [having illicit love affairs with the world and breaking your marriage vow to God]! Do you not know that being the world's friend is being God's enemy? So whoever chooses to be a friend of the world takes his stand as an enemy of God.

John Ives, 4/17/08 Thursday "Alleluia"; "I Stand in Awe";

"Lord, You Are"

Love is the key.  If you have My love in you then you have My life as well.  Examine your heart.  See if it is toward Me.  You must dwell continually in the cleansing flow of My life and light.  Wandering from the path of righteousness squanders valuable time that has been given to you.  Many shall be ashamed when they are presented before Me and their deeds are exposed.  Though they may enter in, they shall realize the cost of their unfruitful lives.  While others shall be adorned with their rich reward, they shall know that they have been poor toward God.  Now is the time to make your salvation sure.  Few realize what "salvation" truly means.  They think that it's only "saved from hell and going to heaven."  What does it means to be whole?    It is to become complete in Me.  It is to be free from the kingdom of the devil and self and growing each day in My kingdom.  You must be molded into My likeness by My Spirit.  The measure that you become like Me is the same measure of your enjoyment in eternity.  Press in to My fullness.  Don't let your growth be stunted by the cares of this world, the demands of others or the pull of your old nature.  Will you allow Me to prune those things that entangle you?  Will you be made whole?  Allow My Word to do its surgery.  Obey My prompting.  You cannot afford to delay.

1Jn 3:23-24 (RSV) ²³ And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. ²⁴ All who keep his commandments abide in him, and he in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit which he has given us.

Eph 1:15-23 (RSV) ¹⁵ For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, ¹⁶ I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, ¹⁷ that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, ¹⁸ having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, ¹⁹ and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power in us who believe, according to the working of his great might ²⁰ which he accomplished in Christ when he raised him from the dead and made him sit at his right hand in the heavenly places, ²¹ far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come; ²² and he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, ²³ which is his body, the fulness of him who fills all in all.

2Pet 1:10-11  (KJV) ¹⁰ Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: ¹¹ For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Rev 12:10-11 (KJV) ¹⁰ And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. ¹¹ And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

John Ives, 4/11/08 Thursday "Jesus, Name Above All Names"; "Father, We Love You"; "Shout to the Lord"

A tree is not like a vegetable plant.  These may spring up quickly and produce, but a tree takes years to mature and bring forth fruit.  The tree puts down deep roots and can endure while other plants wither.  Its strong roots give it stability in the storm.  Its stature is great and can be seen from far off.  Its growth comes from within.  When you look at the rings of its cross section you can see the seasons that it has weathered.  Great is it's beauty and majesty.  Though it was once a seed, it flourished and grew.  There are many different kinds of trees.  All have a beauty of their own.  The storm reveals how well their roots have grown.  So is it also with men.  Those who have put down deep roots have been nurtured and know of My depths.  They have stood the test of time and are pillars of My strength.  Others have grown with outward appearance but have a shallow, passing relationship with Me.  They look good but do not endure.  You have chosen to put down deep roots.  You have held fast and cherished the Words that I have spoken to you.  They have produced Life within you.  They have been your anchor in the storms.  They flow out from you.  Because you have trusted Me, I shall cause My glory to rest upon you.  Wisdom and counsel and might shall be found in you.  Guard carefully the fruit of your lips.  Let only words that impart grace come forth.  Let a spirit of praise and thanksgiving be in your heart.  Consider those difficult times I have brought you through.  Sing of My mercy and loving kindness.  Make melody to Me and feast upon our Life together.  As the branches of the majestic oak sway in the wind, dance and sway as My Spirit moves upon you.  It is a wave offering to Me.  Be free in My Spirit and let Him carry you where He wills.  Rejoice in all things.  Enjoy this new season of your life.

Is 61:3 (KJV) To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified

PS 92:12-13 (KJV) ¹² The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. ¹³ Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.

Jer 17:7-8 (RSV) ⁷ "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. ⁸ He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."

Jn 15:8 (RSV) By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples.

1 Pet 4:14 (RSV) If you are reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

John Ives, 4/03/08 Thursday " This is My Story "

How can men believe that they may live as they please on earth and be comfortable with Me in heaven?  How can they be so blind as to believe that I have one standard on earth and another in heaven?  What makes them think that the words they speak have weight in the spirit if their hearts are shouting another thing?  They say, "I love You, Lord," but the fruit of their actions and the thoughts and intents of their hearts are far from Me.  Those who half-heartedly seek Me to make their life a little better will not find Me.  Yet I will have mercy and forbearance for My great Name's sake.  Though their lives may find relief, the issues of their heart remain and their plight is even greater than before since the Day of Reckoning is nearer.  Wickedness and iniquity sear their consciences and their love grows dimmer.  Where is the cry for righteousness?  Who will cleanse their sin stained garments?  When shall My church awake?  Forsake your double-minded heart.  Loose yourself from the bonds of this worldly mindset. You cannot ascend to My Holy Mount if you eyes are set upon the allures of this age.  Break free today!  Don't become beguiled by counterfeit churches that preach a counterfeit gospel that gives false comfort to the soul.  The path is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life.  Today, when you hear this Word, receive it, believe it and act upon it, lest it be taken away.   Do not despise reproof, nor harden your neck for sudden destruction shall come upon you.  I chasten those that I love.  Repent, for the kingdom of God has come unto you!

Mt 6:9-10 (KJV) ⁹ After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. ¹⁰ Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Mt 10:7 (KJV)  And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 Mt 24:14 (KJV) And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.

Mk 16:15 (KJV) And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Rev 14:6-7 (KJV) ⁶ And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

⁷ Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. ⁸ And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication

Jas 4:4  (AMP) You [are like] unfaithful wives [having illicit love affairs with the world and breaking your marriage vow to God]! Do you not know that being the world's friend is being God's enemy? So whoever chooses to be a friend of the world takes his stand as an enemy of God. 

Jas 4:8-10 (AMP) 8 Come close to God and He will come close to you. [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands clean; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery]. 9 [As you draw near to God] be deeply penitent and grieve, even weep [over your disloyalty]. Let your laughter be turned to grief and your mirth to dejection and heartfelt shame [for your sins]. 10 Humble yourselves [feeling very insignificant] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up and make your lives significant].

John Ives, 4/03/08 Thursday "Jesus, Name Above All Names"; "I Love You, Lord"

The secret of walking in the Resurrected Life is that it is My life, not yours.  You cannot live this new life apart from Me.  To try is to be striving constantly.  My life comes through surrender.  Remember that I prayed, "Not My will but thine be done, Father."  You must do the same.  Be alert that jealousy and envy not arise within you.  They rob you of this life.  They belong to your old way of life.  They are weeds that must be rooted out, lest the garden become overgrown and the fruit choked out.  You must expect that the enemy will try to sow seeds of discontent.  At their root is the thought of comparison.  Don't give way to them.  The path that I have for you is unique.  Of course you will be different.  You need to redefine what you think success is.  It is not gaining what others seem to have.  Success is to fully do the will of the Father.  Along the way, He will bless you with those things that will be good for you.  He knows best what you need.  He has already given you things that can only come from Him.  He knows that you have earthly needs and He will supply them.  The secret way is the way of gratitude and contentment.  You don't need man to validate that you are "on track."  They can only tell you what others have done.  Do a "heart check" and see where you are.  Is your heart set upon following the plan that We have for you?  Are you walking in the Light?  If so, then you are "on track."  Each day is preparation for the next.  Embrace today and expect that it is filled with opportunity.  Don't overlook the small things.  Gold is good, but diamonds are better.  Many are looking for the "pot of gold" and walking right by diamonds.  They are squandering the day looking constantly at the future.  Planning is not bad, just be sure that it's the Father's plan.  Wisdom, knowledge, understanding and favor are better than gold. There is nothing sweeter than fellowship with the Father, the Spirit and Me and to walk in harmony with others.  It makes you complete.  To know My rest is happiness.  It is a safe harbor in a storm.  The time to make all these yours is before the day of crisis.  That day shall come soon.  Many shall be swept away because they don't have an anchor to depend upon.  The lighthouse is for the storm.  You are My beacon.  The light of the glory of God dwells with you.  They shall come to the glory.  I am gathering a city of light before the storm comes.  It shall grow from a small beginning.  The structure and frame shall arise.  Have patience and trust Me to bring it to pass.  It won't take long.

Jn 4:23-24 (KJV) ²³ But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. ²⁴ God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

Worship: (Strong's) proskuneo - to kiss, like a dog licking his master's hand; to fawn or to, that is (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore), worship.

Lk 7:37-38;45-47 (KJV) ³⁷ And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, ³⁸ And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. ⁴⁴ And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. ⁴⁵ Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. ⁴⁶ My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. ⁴⁷ Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little

Mt 26:13 (KJV)  Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.

John Ives, 3/26/08 Wednesday "You Deserve the Glory "; "Holy Spirit, Thou Art Welcome"

Pr 20:26 (AMP)  A wise king winnows out the wicked [from among the good] and brings the threshing wheel over them [to separate the chaff from the grain].

Lk 3:16-17 (AMP) ¹⁶ John answered them all by saying, I baptize you with water; but He Who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of Whose sandals I am not fit to unfasten. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. ¹⁷ His winnowing shovel (fork) is in His hand to thoroughly clear and cleanse His [threshing] floor and to gather the wheat and store it in His granary, but the chaff He will burn with fire that cannot be extinguished.

John Ives, 3/19/08 Wednesday "Redeemer"; "You Deserve the Glory"

The vision that has long since been forgotten shall suddenly revive.  Its season has come.  They who would have created it after their own interpretation have given up their dreams and plans.  I have held the image of it in My mind until the day of its revealing.  It has not died. It has only been hidden.  Be alert that the enemy not trip you as you enter in.  Don't allow strife and resentment to keep you from pressing on for the prize.  Brush them off.  Don't accept assignments that I have not called you to.  You must keep your mind focused upon the calling that I have placed upon you.  Don't look at your circumstances with your natural sight.  Allow My Spirit to give you revelation of coming events.  Generals specialize in strategies.  Captains are concerned with tactics.  Lift up your eyes and see the vision.  People will follow someone who knows where he is going.  I am at work even now, though you may not be aware.  Wisdom and insight shall be given to you in the moment of need.  Understand what I expect of you.  Don't spend your time and efforts on unfruitful things.  The most important thing is to walk in the light.  It shall determine your course.  No matter the call of the urgent, you must focus upon the critical need to remain attentive to do what you see Me doing.  It may not seem logical at first, but trust Me.  The question is not, "Lord, what should we do?"  The question you should be asking is, "Lord, what are you doing?"  As you have heard before, "The Lord's always up to something."  Find out what it is and become a part of it.  I am trusting you to go where no one has gone before.  It's new ground.  You must depend on Me to guide you.  A leader goes first.  The time will come when many shall follow.  Don't allow the cares of this world, nor the sin that so easily besets you, to keep you from pressing in.  Watch what the next seven days bring.

Ez 37:9 (KJV) Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.

John Ives, 3/13/08 Thursday "Welcome Into the Place"; "Jesus, Name Above All Names";"O Come, Let Us Worship and Bow Down"; "We Bow Down"

My intimate fellowship is reserved for those who pursue it with all their heart.  They have seen the burning bush from afar and have drawn close.  They hunger for the completeness that dwelling within Me brings.  They are consumed by the fire and desire only to please Me.  They cherish it more than gold and silver.  They have become rich in the eternal.  They draw strength from bringing Me joy.  They feast upon My smile.  All this is foolishness to the unrighteous and lost.  They live for themselves and only perceive earthly things.  The double minded man sees, but cannot give up the pleasures of the world.  They have not truly tasted of My goodness.  They have received My mercy, but only see Me as one to turn to in desperate times.  How shall the world know unless they see the change upon the hearts and faces of those who have dwelled in My holy presence?  You have seen the many faces of love from the young lovers who can do nothing but hold one another as they walk, to the ones who have shared a lifetime together.  Their love appears to have grown cold, but it is only a matter of the expression of it.  Love has become settled and they take each other for granted.  It shall never be that way for those who abandon all to be wholly joined to Me.  The joys and pleasures of their first love remain as they continue with Me.  Their love grows as I add peace, comfort and acceptance.  They become whole within and without.  Their presence brings My presence to all their circumstances for I abide within them and the fire that they bask before goes with them.  The aroma of heaven is upon them stirring the hunger and hope of those who have been bruised, beaten and cast off by the religious.  They are My true witnesses.  They have a knowing within them that says, "I am My Beloved's and He is Mine."  Call forth the hungering.  Set the atmosphere upon notice.  Shake the earth with the voice of command!  The time for the saints of God to arise is now!

Pr 9:10 (AMP) The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning (the chief and choice part) of Wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight and understanding.