“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

Foundation Scriptures: Romans 8:14–16 and Proverbs 20:27

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father! 16 The Spirit Himself [thus] testifies together with our own spirit, [assuring us] that we are children of God.
Romans 8:14-16 AMP

The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.  Proverbs 20:27 KJV

1. God will enlighten us and guide us through our spirits

a. The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly. The AMP says, “The spirit of man [that factor in human personality which proceeds immediately from God] is the lamp of the Lord, searching all his innermost parts.”
b. The spirit of man ­—the heart—is the lamp of the Lord. This means that God will lead you by His Spirit in your spirit.
c. Only when your heart is right and pure, can you trust what your heart is telling you. Only then can you
clearly hear and surely trust the Spirit’s leading and guidance through your spirit.
How God speaks to you:
• Still small voice.
• His Word.
• Confirmation through two or three witnesses.
• Dreams, visions, and an audible voice.

2. The Inward Witness

a. Under the Old Covenant, people were not born again; the Holy Spirit did not yet live IN them.
They needed the guidance of a prophet.
b. Under the New Covenant, God lives in US. We are sons of God, led by the Spirit of God.
c. The inward witness or inward intuition can be described as either: a check, a red light, or a stop signal
for NO and a peace, an assurance, a go-ahead signal for YES.
d. Immature believers (and carnal people) tend to look for manifestations and the spectacular to lead them,
but the inward witness is just as supernatural as guidance through visions etc.
e. That inward witness will lead you into the will of God and the blessing of God. Many have become
millionaires, just by following their heart.
f.  You know you are a child of God, not because someone prophesied it, or because you had a vision, or
because you feel like it, but because of that inward witness.
g. Some people are looking for outward signs to lead them:
• People put out fleeces like Gideon.
• Sometimes God will allow a fleece for a baby
Christian, but it is not His perfect will for you to
be led like this.
• Be careful you don’t get “fleeced” by the devil.
He can also maneuver your circumstances.

3. The Inward Voice

a. The spirit man has a voice, just as the physical man has a voice.
• The voice of the body is feelings.
• The voice of the soul is reason.
• The voice of the spirit is your conscience.
b. It is a still, small voice.
c. 1 John 3:20-21 NKJV says, “For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all
things. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God.”
d. You know when you have done something wrong—your own heart will tell you.
e. Listen to your heart—your conscience. Stay sensitive.

4. The Voice of the Holy Spirit

a. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter: our Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, and
Standby.
b. When the Holy Spirit speaks, it is more authoritative. It might be so loud that you will think someone
near you said it. When God called Samuel, he thought it was Eli.
c. When the Holy Spirit directs you, it will always be in line with the Word of God.
d. If it does not line up with the Word of God, then it is not the Spirit of God.
e. God’s Word is His will; God’s Word is your plumb line.
f. Many people are doing crazy things under the guise of being led by the Spirit. They are not hearing
from God—they are listening to their head—their carnal mind—and being moved by circumstances.
Romans 8:6a AMP says, “Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit]
is death.”
g. Always judge what you hear. Ask yourself:
• Does this line up with the Word of God
• Does it glorify Jesus?
h. Make God’s Word your final authority.
i. Warning: Don’t go after voices to speak aloud to you. The devil may just accommodate you.
j. Paul listened to the voice of the Holy Spirit in Acts 27:9-10, when he warned them, saying, “Men, I
perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also
our lives.” Even though, they did not believe him, later, also by the Holy Spirit, he told them how they
would be saved and what to do to be saved from dying in the storm.
k. We must be controlled by, manipulated by, and stimulated by the Holy Spirit.
l.  Let peace be your umpire (Colossians 3:15 AMP).

5. Five Things You Need to do to Train and Develop Your
Human Spirit

1. Give the Word of God first place in your life (Proverbs 4:20)
2. Meditate in the Word (Joshua 1:8)
3. Practice the Word. Be a doer of the Word. (James 1:22)
4. Pray in the Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:14-15)
5. Learn and decide to instantly obey the voice of the Holy Spirit in your spirit.

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

Foundation Scriptures:

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. Romans 8:14-16 KJV

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:17 KJV

For I am the Lord, I change not. Malachi 3:6a KJV

1. God’s Character Revealed Through His Names:

a. I AM THAT I AM – Jehovah – Yahweh – God the Lord

b. Adonai – Lord; Master

c. Psalms 110:1 – The Lord (Yahweh) said unto my Lord (Adonai), Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

d. His Name is holy – it was considered too holy to say

e. Elohim – God the Creator; God the Trinity

f. El Shaddai (Shadday) – Almighty God – the God who is more than enough

2. These are the Seven Covenant or Redemptive Names of God – These Names Reveal His Character:

a. Jehovah-Jireh – Jehovah Will Provide – the Lord Who sees and provides

i. Genesis 22:14 KJV – “And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen.”

ii. Philippians 4:19 KJV – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

iii. Matthew 6:31-33 KJV

b. Jehovah-Rapha – the Lord my Healer  – the Lord that heals, and restores my soul

i. Exodus 15:26b KJV – “I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.”

ii. Matthew 8:17 KJV – “That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.”

iii. 1 Peter 2:24 KJV – “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.”

iv. 3 John 2 KJV – “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”

c. Jehovah-Tsidkenu – Jehovah our righteousness

i. Jeremiah 33:16 KJV – “In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.

ii. 2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV – “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

iii. Romans 3:22 KJV – “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference.”

iv. Romans 3:26 KJV – “To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.”

d. Jehovah-Nissi – Jehovah my banner – the Lord is my canopy

i. Exodus 17:15 KJV – “And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi.”

ii. Colossians 2:15 KJV – “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

iii. 1 John 4:4 KJV – “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

iv. Romans 8:31 KJV – “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”

v. Colossians 1:13 KJV – “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.”

e. Jehovah-Shalom – Jehovah of peace or prosperity

i. Judges 6:24 KJV – “Then Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord, and called it Jehovah-shalom: unto this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abi-ezrites.

ii. Psalms 23:4 KJV – “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

iii. Isaiah 53:5 KJV – “…the chastisement of our peace was upon him…”

iv. Isaiah 26:3 KJV – Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”

v. John 14:27 KJV – “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

vi. Philippians 4:6-7

f. Jehovah-Shammah – Jehovah is there – the Lord is present – He is with me

i. Ezekiel 48:35 KJV – “It was round about eighteen thousand measures: and the name of the city from that day shall be, The Lord is there.”

ii. Hebrews 13:5b KJV – “…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

iii. Romans 8:11

iv. Romans 8:16

v. 1 Peter 1:23

g.  Jehovah- Ra’ah (raw-aw’) – the Lord my Shepherd

i. Psalms 23:1 KJV – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

ii. 1 Peter 2:25 KJV – “For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

3. All the Character of God is Wrapped up in One Name – the Name of Jesus:

a. 1 John 4:17 – As he is, so are we in this world.

b. Philippians 2:7-10 – The Name above all names.

c. Colossians 2:8-11 – In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.

d. John 17:1-26

e. Verse 3 KJV – “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

This is My commandment: that you love one another [just] as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love [no one has shown stronger affection] than to lay down (give up) his own life for his friends. 14 You are My friends if you keep on doing the things which I command you to do. 15 I do not call you servants (slaves) any longer, for the servant does not know what his master is doing (working out). But I have called you My friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from My Father. [I have revealed to you everything that I have learned from Him.] 16 You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed you [I have planted you], that you might go and bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit may be lasting [that it may remain, abide], so that whatever you ask the Father in My Name [as presenting all that I AM], He may give it to you. 17 This is what I command you: that you love one another. 18 If the world hates you, know that it hated Me before it hated you. 19 If you belonged to the world, the world would treat you with affection and would love you as its own. But because you are not of the world [no longer one with it], but I have chosen (selected) you out of the world, the world hates (detests) you. 20 Remember that I told you, A servant is not greater than his master [is not superior to him]. If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word and obeyed My teachings, they will also keep and obey yours. 21 But they will do all this to you [inflict all this suffering on you] because of [your bearing] My name and on My account, for they do not know or understand the One Who sent Me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin [would be blameless]; but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates Me also hates My Father.24 If I had not done (accomplished) among them the works which no one else ever did, they would not be guilty of sin. But [the fact is] now they have both seen [these works] and have hated both Me and My Father. 25 But [this is so] that the word written in their Law might be fulfilled, They hated Me without a cause. John 15:12-25 AMP

Jesus loved us so much that He sacrificed His life for us—His friends—as He calls us. He only had one life to give and He gave it freely and utterly. Only those who obey His commands can claim to be His friends. Jesus is the one who promoted us from servants to friends. What an honor to be called a friend of God! We did not choose Jesus—He chose us—He loved us and died for us and invited us into His family. We have a choice to make as well—to either accept or reject His offer of salvation. He chose us and appointed us to bear lasting fruit so that whatever we ask the Father, in the Name of Jesus, He will give us. Jesus wants us to get our prayers answered! We should consider it a great, great honor that Jesus loves us so much!

Because Jesus is our Lord and Master, we owe Him our unconditional obedience, but Jesus asks us to obey Him simply because we love Him. The Father, Himself, loves us and desires that His love be freely reciprocated. Indeed, He has been so devoted to us; we owe Him something in return. We owe Him our honor and loyalty. 1 Corinthians 7:23 ERV says that, “God paid a high price for you, so don’t be slaves to anyone else.” You need to take your eyes off of other people—stop caring about what they think of you more than what God thinks of you and be loyal in every way to the One who saved you and set you free.

Jesus goes on to speak of persecution. The world—the world’s system—hates Jesus; hates righteousness; hates what is good—without a cause and for no reason. The god of this world—the devil—has blinded the eyes of the unbelievers so that they should not discern the Truth (2 Cor. 4:4). They hate Jesus and they hate you, but don’t even know why themselves. If the world hates you—know that they hated Jesus first. If you were one of them and like them—they would love you. But because you are not one of them and you are not like them, they hate you. A servant is not greater than his master—if they persecuted Jesus, they will persecute you as well. Don’t be surprised at persecution when it comes, because everyone who desires to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Tim. 3:12). If they hate you, they hate Jesus too. If they hate Jesus, they hate the Father who sent Jesus to die—even for them. Before Saul became Paul, he too hated Jesus and all Christians, but his eyes were opened and he ended up giving his life for the sake of the Gospel!

Christians get enough hatred from the world—we need each other’s love, support and encouragement. Many times, we think that other Christians are our problem, when our only problem is the devil. He comes to sow discord so that he can divide and conquer. When the Christians of the Early Church were persecuted, they pulled together, called on the Father in unison and continued to boldly preach the Gospel, perform miracles and meet the needs of the people. It’s time the Body of Christ woke up and stopped fighting each other, rather, stood side to side and faced the devil—our true enemy—and fought and conquered him! Jesus asks us to please Him by unselfishly loving one another and he will give you the strength to do it.

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

America – today 234 years old – born 4th July 1776 – birthed out of pain and a hunger to worship freely, wise men with their dreams came from the East; the first winter survived, through the red man they were blessed. Thanksgiving, a yearly reminder, we were blessed out of their provision. The new land yielding of her bounty, the fight for a new world is made, from east to west, new frontiers, covenants made, trail of tears, the red man would also give his blood as covenants were broken.

Over the decades, and down through the years, through all the pain, sorrow and many tears, many a man would lay down his life for freedom’s dream, and so while the sword and canon spoke, the pen being mightier than them all, produced a Bill of Rights; wise fathers penned the constitution. From this constitution we cannot sway, not one jot or tittle can be allowed to be taken away – not even by the highest courts of the land – for if it is altered America no more shall stand.

One nation under God, united, defeated the enemy’s might. Our flag was still flying by the dawn’s early light, propped up by our flesh, as men would resist to lower the flag, the broad stripes and bright stars that would signal a nation had been born – tyranny swept aside – the flag was still waving – over the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Many wars were fought on every front, even among us brother to brother – the blue and the grey as the red blood flowed – giving way to the red, white and blue. Slavery, the curse of every family, the cry of every mother – brought to a halt – the desire of all to be free. We hold these truths to be self-evident – all men are created equal – and from this Declaration of Independence we cannot sway.

Ellis Island would be the place where the stranger would come seeking freedom – the Lady with the Lamp the way beaming – give me your huddled and tired masses – they will find rest on my shores. 13 states, that became one nation under God, would grow to become a Jubilee of fifty nations within our borders. Many times, over the years, the balance of power would sway. Thankfully three divisions of government would equally tip the scales – the checks and balances by our founding fathers laid – the dream that all would be equal from a mountain the Promised Land was seen – that we would not be judged by the color of our skin. America would become the Land of Jubilee – the place of the dream.

This nation has walked away from its plumb line, three million-plus laws on the statute books you’ll find, replacing the Ten Commandments. Prayer taken out of schools, our people oppressed by drugs and alcohol, slaves to pornography and STD’s, HIV, millions of unborn babies aborted. While many are trying not to retain God in their knowledge, they are given over to a reprobate mind, professing themselves to wise they become fools, something has to be done and must be done soon. This cannot be done without Divine Intervention.

This is the day this is the hour – we must hear from Heaven and so now we pray.

You have guided us these many years, now hear from heaven, forgive our sin and heal our land – for You were seen in the watch-fires of a hundred circling camps, altars were built in the evening dews and damps. As You died to make men holy, so we will live to make them free, Your truth is marching on.

O Sovereign Heavenly Father, in Jesus mighty name, we pray grant mercy on us one more time – as You have each century – a generation now lost their way – may we still say “in God we trust” and be “one nation” under thee. Heavenly Father, we as a generation refuse to give up – we will stand as one – and humble ourselves and pray, and seek your face and turn from our wicked ways. You have promised to come and heal our land – a new generation is rising up with faith, and the anointing to set the captives free, and marching through the land to see another Great Awakening. This is our purpose, this is our goal – IGNITING A GENERATION – for a nation to fulfill its call!

Poem by Dr. Rodney M. Howard-Browne

The [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like the palm tree [be long-lived, stately, upright, useful, and fruitful]; they shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic, stable, durable, and incorruptible]. 13 Planted in the house of the Lord, they shall flourish in the courts of our God. 14 [Growing in grace] they shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be full of sap [of spiritual vitality] and [rich in the] verdure [of trust, love, and contentment]. 15 [They are living memorials] to show that the Lord is upright and faithful to His promises; He is my Rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.
Psalms 92:12-15 AMP

According to Psalm 92, the uncompromisingly righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, grow like the cedars of Lebanon and flourish in the courts of our God. Even though they grow older, they are still growing – growing in grace – and still bringing forth fruit in old age. Some people say, “You are only as old as you feel!” And this is true, because your heart attitude greatly influences your mental outlook, your body, your choices and your outcome. Whether you are positive or negative, the longer you age the more your thought life affects your mind, your body, your health and your quality of life. You can be older chronologically, but be younger and younger on the inside. As a result, you can remain fresh and vigorous longer on the outside as well. Thank God for those righteous saints, who have a lifetime of experience serving God, and who still have the strength and enthusiasm to teach and impart this wisdom to the younger generation! They are a great inspiration, and can challenge the next generation to reach higher and to aspire to follow and imitate their life of faith and victory. It is a beautiful thing to see a much older, godly person who is still full of life and spunk and joy!

The Hebrew word for “bring forth fruit” means: to germinate; to cause to flourish; to bring forth fruit; to make cheerful; to increase. The word for “fat” means: fat; rich: fertile. The word translated “flourish” here, means: to be green; verdant; new; prosperous; flourishing. The Lord promises that the righteous will be fat and flourishing: full of sap – spiritual vitality – and rich in the verdure (greenness or freshness) of trust, love, and contentment!

So even as the righteous grow older, they will still be able to contribute – they will still flourish and increase and continue to produce fruit. This is not the normal way people age. Usually you lose structural fat and there’s no way you could be called “green”, because everything has started to dry out. After a certain age, you certainly can’t produce anything new anymore. And yet, the Lord promises that if we faithfully serve Him and honor His word, that we will renew our strength like the eagle. He promises that we can have a great quality of life – a sound mind and body – until it’s our time to go home! This strength and vitality, fruitfulness and productiveness, peace and contentment, is the evidence of God’s blessing on a life. The uncompromisingly righteous are living memorials – their blessed life brings glory to God! Their blessed life proves that God is good and faithful to His promises! The Lord wants to bless you – it brings Him glory! You need to bring your life over to where His blessing is being poured out. His blessing is not being poured out where sin abounds, but it is poured out where people revere and honor and obey Him!

As you have therefore received Christ, [even] Jesus the Lord, [so] walk (regulate your lives and conduct yourselves) in union with and conformity to Him. 7 Have the roots [of your being] firmly and deeply planted [in Him, fixed and founded in Him], being continually built up in Him, becoming increasingly more confirmed and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and abounding and overflowing in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7 AMP

We need to be rooted firmly and deeply in God and His word. We need to walk with the Lord – regulating our lives and conduct, in union with Him and conforming to Him. If we do, then we will see stability, peace, provision and good fruit manifest in our lives.

He who leans on, trusts in, and is confident in his riches shall fall, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like a green bough. Proverbs 11:28 AMP

[Most] blessed is the man who believes in, trusts in, and relies on the Lord, and whose hope and confidence the Lord is. 8 For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters that spreads out its roots by the river; and it shall not see and fear when heat comes; but its leaf shall be green. It shall not be anxious and full of care in the year of drought, nor shall it cease yielding fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 AMP

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
Psalms 1:1-3 NIV

The uncompromisingly righteous – who trusts in, leans on, and relies on God; who puts his hope and confidence in Him; who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers; who delights on the law of the Lord and who meditates on it day and night – shall flourish like a green bough; he shall be like a tree planted by the waters that spreads out its roots by the river; he shall not see and fear when heat comes; his leaves will remain green and not wither; he will not be anxious and full of care in the year of drought; he will yield his fruit in season and he’ll not cease yielding fruit. Whatever he does prospers! And he will bring much glory to God!

Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 1 Timothy 6:6-11 NKJV

The love of money – greed; covetousness – is the root of all evil! A covetous person – one who has lustful desire for the property of others and is greedy for gain – is an idolater, and will not inherit the Kingdom of God (Ephesians 5:5). You either serve and worship God – or your worldly possessions (mammon). Covetousness is not compatible with serving God, because it breeds only evil and destruction. A covetous person destroys lives – their own and that of other people.

These are the things that covetousness breeds:

1. Greed and murder:

But [when these men set a trap for others] they are lying in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives. 19 So are the ways of everyone who is greedy of gain; such [greed for plunder] takes away the lives of its possessors. Proverbs 1:18-19 AMP
You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your desires go unfulfilled; [so] you become murderers. [To hate is to murder as far as your hearts are concerned.] You burn with envy and anger and are not able to obtain [the gratification, the contentment, and the happiness that you seek], so you fight and war. You do not have, because you do not ask. James 4:2 AMP

2. Rebellion and Poverty:

There are those who [generously] scatter abroad, and yet increase more; there are those who withhold more than is fitting or what is justly due, but it results only in want. Proverbs 11:24 AMP

3. Oppression and violence:

He who oppresses the poor to get gain for himself and he who gives to the rich — both will surely come to want. Proverbs 22:16 AMP
But your eyes and your heart are only for your covetousness and dishonest gain, for shedding innocent blood, for oppression and doing violence. Jeremiah 22:17 AMP
Woe to those who devise iniquity and work out evil upon their beds! When the morning is light, they perform and practice it because it is in their power. 2 They covet fields and seize them, and houses and take them away; they oppress and crush a man and his house, a man and his inheritance. Micah 2:1-2 AMP

4. Denial or rejection of God:

Remove far from me falsehood and lies; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, 9 Lest I be full and deny You and say, Who is the Lord? Or lest I be poor and steal, and so profane the name of my God. Proverbs 30:8-9 AMP

5. Injustice:

Your princes are rebels and companions of thieves; everyone loves bribes and runs after compensation and rewards. They judge not for the fatherless nor defend them, neither does the cause of the widow come to them [for they delay or turn a deaf ear]. Isaiah 1:23 AMP
Both their hands are put forth and are upon what is evil to do it diligently; the prince and the judge ask for a bribe, and the great man utters his evil desire. Thus they twist between them [the course of justice]. Micah 7:3 AMP

6. Backsliding:

Its heads judge for reward and a bribe and its priests teach for hire and its prophets divine for money; yet they lean on the Lord and say, Is not the Lord among us? No evil can come upon us. Micah 3:11 AMP

7. Deceitfulness and deceptions:

As for what was sown among thorns, this is he who hears the Word, but the cares of the world and the pleasure and delight and glamour and deceitfulness of riches choke and suffocate the Word, and it yields no fruit. Matthew 13:22 AMP

8. Defilement:

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within and defile a man.” Mark 7:21-23 NKJV

9. Temptations and lusts:

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. 1 Timothy 6:9 AMP
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world — the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:15-17 NKJV

10. A short life and a fool’s end:

Like the partridge that gathers a brood which she did not hatch and sits on eggs which she has not laid, so is he who gets riches by unjust means and not by right. He will leave them, or they will leave him, in the midst of his days, and at his end he will be a fool. Jeremiah 17:11 AMP

Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.”‘ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ 21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:16-21 NKJV

Jesus is all-powerful:

For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 AMP

Jesus is the Son of God:

And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Luke 1:35 NKJV

Jesus is God:

Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Matthew 1:23 KJV

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. John 1:1-5 NKJV

Jesus is the Messiah:

The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.” 26 Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.” John 4:25-26 NKJV

Jesus is the Judge:

For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son. John 5:22 NKJV

Jesus has authority over demons:

Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.” Mark 1:27 NKJV

Jesus gives life:

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 NKJV

Jesus is the Good Shepherd:

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:11 NKJV

Jesus is the only way to God:

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6 NKJV

Jesus is the author of life:

But you killed the very Source (the Author) of life, Whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. Acts 3:15 AMP

Jesus is the wisdom of God:

For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, 24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:21-24 NKJV

Jesus is the head of the church:

For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Ephesians 5:23 NKJV

Jesus is the highest authority:

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11 NKJV

Jesus is the Creator:

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:15-16 NKJV

Jesus is faithful:

If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself. 2 Timothy 2:13 NKJV

Jesus is coming again:

Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13 NKJV

Jesus is sinless:

For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15 NKJV

Jesus is holy:

For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens. Hebrews 7:26 NKJV

Jesus is the King of the ages:

They sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying: “Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the saints! Revelation 15:3 NKJV

Jesus is the Lamb of God:

But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. Revelation 21:22 NKJV

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

Foundation Scripture: Romans 8:15-23  (NKJ)
15For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and if children, then heirs– heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. 20For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; 21because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. 23Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body.

Adam was made in the image of God. He was filled with the life and nature of God. He had a special place in God’s heart. He could freely walk and talk with God. Sin destroyed that special relationship and the position man held in the presence of God. We are heirs of the promise and of the grace of God. The promise was that God would restore all of mankind back into relationship with Himself, through His own Son.

Jesus was born into this earth, living as a man, dying as a man – taking with Him to the grave our sin, sickness, poverty and spiritual death. He arose triumphant from the grave, the first-born from the dead, leading the way into life, health, blessing and the kingdom of God. As we declare His Lordship over our lives and receive God’s grace and mercy – He restores us into relationship with Himself.

God Himself declares that we are heirs of His kingdom. Not only are we heirs, but we are joint-heirs together with Jesus! This is not because of us. Actually it has absolutely nothing to do with us. Our Father God did it all through His Son, Jesus, and we are simply the grateful, joyful recipients of this new and wonderful relationship with Him.

We are joint-heirs. That means that we share with Jesus, the position He has with the Father. Man did not decide this – God did. The Person with the goods gets to decide who His heirs are. Heirs cannot choose their inheritance. It is theirs because of the One whose heirs they are.

We may not look like heirs of God. We may not look like joint-heirs with Jesus, but according to the Word we are. God has placed us in that position. We must get a revelation of that fact. The Bible says that creation groans as it longs for our heirship to be revealed in the redemption of our bodies. When our bodies are redeemed, the whole of creation will be redeemed and the destructive effects of sin will be annulled and removed.

Titus 3:5-7  (NKJ)
5not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

We are heirs of the promise (Hebrews 6:17) and heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:4). We have the promise of eternal life, of peace, righteousness and every good thing. We reign in life through Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:12) and the gift of righteousness we have received by His grace (Romans 5:17). We are seated in heavenly places in and with Him (Ephesians 2:6).

By God’s grace and mercy, everything Jesus has, He has shared with us. We can walk in the righteousness and power of a son or daughter of God!

“From the Heart” teaching by Drs. Rodney & Adonica Howard-Browne.

Romans 9:30-33  (NIV)

30      What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith;

31      but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it.

32      Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the “stumbling stone.”

33      As it is written: “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”

 

God, in His mercy, sent Jesus to shed His blood on the cross at Calvary, for our salvation, justification and righteousness – all of us – whether Jew or Gentile. Even though the gentiles were not looking for God – He extended His hand of mercy out to them and gave them the same opportunity to receive forgiveness by faith, as His people Israel.

 

The problem that Israel had was that they were more focused on their own works than God’s grace. Instead of being happy when Jesus came to lift the burden of religion that they carried – they were angered by the grace and forgiveness that He offered to the sinner. Their biggest problem was their pride. They did not acknowledge their sin before God because they felt justified in His presence by their adherence to the traditions of their ancestors. Good works are good when they are built on a foundation of God’s grace, but they will not purchase righteousness with God by themselves.

 

The gospel is simple and salvation is free, but it’s very simplicity and straight-forwardness causes people to stumble. They expect something more difficult – something which takes more of an effort from them. They want to feel as if they have earned it. They want to retain bragging rights. You can keep your pride intact if your salvation comes by your hand and your works – you never need to acknowledge your sin and lost state. However, if you are dependent upon God’s mercy – you must humble your heart before God and acknowledge your sin and your inadequacy before Him in order to receive His forgiveness. The thing is – we are totally dependent on God. So our only recourse is to chuck our pride and humble ourselves.

 

 

Proverbs 29:23  (NKJ)

23      A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.

 

James 4:6  (NKJ)

6        But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

 

Titus 3:3-7  (NIV)

3        At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.

4        But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared,

5        he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,

6        whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,

7        so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

 

It doesn’t matter who you are, it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, it doesn’t matter what you’ve done, Jesus has reached out His arms of love to you and offered you His mercy. If you have not been washed in the blood of Jesus – today is the day – recognize the fact that you need Him to save and redeem you. Even if you are a believer – you need God’s help every day. You make mistakes and you need His grace. Humble your heart – acknowledge your need – and receive His life and forgiveness.

“For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Luke 6:43 NKJ

The fruit a tree bears is a direct reflection of the condition of the tree itself – good tree: good fruit – bad tree: bad fruit. Fruit cannot grow by itself, without a tree. Nor can a tree produce good fruit when it is in bad shape. You could say that the fruit is not the problem, it is the evidence of the problem. If you are unhappy with your fruit, you will have to do something with your tree.

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:1-5 NKJ

Jesus is the trunk of the tree, God is the Gardener, and we are the branches. If we want to bear good fruit we will have to hook up with Jesus and allow God to water and prune us, too. We must live in His presence. We must live in His Word and His Word must live in us. The fruit we bear is not a result of our own efforts. We don’t work to produce good fruit, but we work to press in to the Lord and to seek His face. The fruit is produced as the Word and the Holy Spirit are allowed to do their work in our hearts and our lives.

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:16-21 NKJ

Galatians 5:19 in the NAS translates “the works of the flesh” as “the deeds of the flesh” and the NIV translates it as “the acts of the sinful nature”. The works (deeds) of the flesh – acts of the sinful nature – are the manifestation of sin that is allowed to grow unchecked. Sin grows from the fleshly, carnal nature like weeds. It chokes our lives and destroys everyone and everything around us.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-25 NKJ

When the Spirit of God is allowed to work in us as we yield to the Spirit and walk in the Spirit, then the fruit of the Spirit becomes manifest in our lives. Like sap in a tree, we do not see how the Spirit is moving and working in people, but as the fruit is produced and grows on their branches, we are seeing God at work in their lives. You cannot fake fruit. The manifestation of fruit is a very honest reflection of a person’s heart. The fruit of the Spirit is sweet and delicious to us.  Like good, healthy, delicious fruit growing on a fruit tree, the fruit of the Spirit is not only a reflection of our heart, but it also blesses us and all those who are around us.