Jenelsie's Corner (#171)

My Grace and Truth Family,

Oh, that we would be strengthened to live in the vision given to us as a ministry:  “Jesus Christ:  the Son of God is Lord…that in all things HE might have preeminence.”  Our purpose for existing as ‘Grace and Truth’ is so that we will fulfill the calling to present, express, and demonstrate the reality of JESUS as LORD!  Step by step each of us, whom He has called, is persuaded of His Lordship.  Then our message as a body is the Lordship of Jesus Christ.  He also deals with us (as a body) in steps, causing us to walk by faith and not by sight.  The ministry of Grace and Truth is the witness that JESUS IS LORD!

Let us be reminded even at the close of this year that He who has begun a good work in us will continue…will continue…will continue.  All of His work in us is for His praise.

“Giving ourselves away” is our reasonable service to the One who has chosen us.

Blessed be the name of our LORD!

Your sister,

Jenelsie Howell

Pastor’s Wife

Jenelsie's Corner (#169)

My Grace and Truth Family,

What grace we have as believers in the fellowship with the Lord Jesus.  He is our “gate” to God Almighty--Jehovah, the Great ‘I AM that I AM”. 

On last Sunday, our Lord declared, for our hearing again, that our God is also our FATHER, even our DADDY!  Throughout the week, each time I heard Him with replaying the tape, the words, “Father and Daddy” rang out to me.  HIS declaration of who HE is brought me comfort, just in the time of feeling overwhelmed; brought me strength right in my weakness; brought me hope in my despair.

“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons (daughters) of God…And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying Abba Father…And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ…Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?  Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?...How much more shall your Father (WHO has now come in to sup with you) which is in heaven give good things to them that ask HIM.”

Hallelujah!

Your sister in Christ Jesus,

Jenelsie

Pastor’s wife

Jenelsie's Corner (#168)

Dear Grace and Truth,

The Lord gave us a vivid picture of how the Holy Spirit works in us as new creatures while we were in service at Ozzie’s Restaurant.  During the comely time of worshipping our Lord, the spotlight was placed on Jacenta for our learning.  Pastor explained that when she yielded herself to bring praise to the Lord, the sound began as a weak, trembling voice.  Then the WORD was manifested right before our eyes: “…for when I am weak (from standing under hardships, pains, pressures, and distresses), then am I strong (in Christ Jesus being joined to me and His Spirit working within).”  The same power which raised our Lord from the dead strengthened her body to produce loud, bold praise in song.  The Holy Spirit did not stop short of performing the WORD and magnifying the SON.

For Grace and Truth as a body of believers, 2 Corinthians 12:10 (referred to above) is foundational.  Consequently, our Father has chosen situations and times, whether openly or privately, to establish the truth of His WORD, “driving the point home” time and time again.  His faithfulness is amazing, and He does not weary in presenting His church as witnesses to HIS LIFE being IN US, the body of Christ.  So when your time comes to “represent” HIM, rejoice and be glad.  The Holy Spirit is well able to bring forth praises of thanksgiving and adoration out of your belly where HE resides.  What a WONDERFUL LORD!  Hallelujah!

Love in Christ Jesus,

Sister Jenelsie

Pastor’s Wife

Born Of A Virgin: Part 2

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

We are learning that as “the word was made flesh,” such that we could “behold” His glory; it is Abba's purpose that Christ be BORN/brought forth/seen/manifest IN us, and thru us; that the glory of His life would be revealed IN us.

The pattern (“that God was manifest in the flesh”) was inescapable, such that the outcome (that we be “born again” of the incorruptible “seed” of the “word” of God) would be inevitable.

[1 Tim 3:16; 1 Pet 1:23]

It was said, in our hearing, that 'just because we're in a committed relationship (that is, 'on speaking terms') with the Lord, that doesn't insure that we have obtained His salvation.'

Do the words “Depart from me, I never knew you” ring a familiar bell?

Sermon note. 'You won't apprehend (spiritual things) until you receive (the Spirit).'

Jesus said: “Except a man be BORN again...of the Spirit, he cannot see (nor enter into) the kingdom of God.” [Jn 3:3, 5]

Just as the Lord God “prepared (an undefiled) body” to carry His “Word” to full term, and bring forth/deliver the “fruit” of the womb; in the same manner our body, soul, and spirit are sanctified/set aside/cleansed by the blood of the Lamb/Christ Jesus to carry the engrafted “word” in our earthen vessels until Christ be fully formed IN us, and made manifest/brought forth; and we become “fruitful in every good work.”

For, you see, just as Mary was God's “virgin,” so the church is Christ's “virgin” bride.

ThenSingsMySoul:

EMMANUEL, EMMANUEL,

YOUR NAME IS CALLED EMMANUEL.

YOUR'RE GOD WITH US,

REVEALED IN US;

YOUR NAME IS CALLED EMMANUEL

[Matt 1:23]

Born Of A Virgin: Part 1

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When, as His mother, Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.”

[Matt 1:18]

I awakened the morning after the Lord's day with these musings, bubbling in my spirit, concerning the unique distinction between Christ's (virgin) birth and Adam's (supposed virgin) birth; because there was no man or woman to disperse or conceive “seed.”

Whereas the first Adam was a “created” son, “made a living soul;” “formed from the dust of the ground;” Christ, the last Adam, “from heaven,” God's “only begotten Son” (the promised “seed”), was  “made a quickening Spirit.”                                                           [1 Cor 15:45, 47; Gen 2:7]

Therein is the  centerpiece of the “miracle” working power of God; the “Word,” which became the “seed” conceived in the womb of Mary, “was made flesh” for all the world to SEE.

Can you wrap your mind around it? Or can you receive the revelation of it in your spirit? The Creator, as only He could, became a “partaker of (the) flesh and blood” that He created ...that we might be made partakers of His righteousness.

[Heb 2:14; 1 Cor 1:31]

ThenSingsMySoul:

THIS, THIS, IS CHRIST THE KING

WHOM SHEPHERD'S GUARD AND ANGEL'S SING

HASTE, HASTE, TO (CROWN HIM LORD)

THE BABE, THE SON OF MARY!

To be cont'd 

Be Born IN Us Today!

Be Born IN Us Today!

“Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; Hail th' encarnate Diety,” the “word was made flesh;' for all mankind to see. [Jn 1:14]

The angels had a mighty miracle to herald on that holy night: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” [Lk 2:11]

Why was He born? To “save us from our sins;” and to prepare His Bride, for Himself. After all, “we are His workmanship...” [Matt 1:21; Rev 21:2; Eph 2:10]

It was prophesied of Him that “He shall purify the son's (and daughters) of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness...” for none but the righteous shall see God. [Mal 3:3]

Thus we cry: “O holy child of Bethlehem! Descend to us we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in, BE BORN IN US TODAY.”

And the Lord wouldn't have it any other way; for it is His “good pleasure” to give Himself to us ...so much so that He covenanted to wash us, and cleanse us, and put His Spirit within us, and “cause” us to walk pleasing in His sight; that “He might present (us) to himself a glorious (Bride), without spot , or wrinkle.” [Eze 36:25-27; Eph 5:25-27]

ThenSingsMySoul:

PLEASED AS MAN WITH MEN TO DWELL,

JESUS OUR EMMANUEL.

HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING,

GLORY TO THE NEW BORN KING!

And I Saw

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

“And John bare record, saying, I SAW the Spirit ...descending and remaining on Him ...which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. AND I SAW, and bare record that this is the Son of God.”      [Jn 1:32-34]

Coming to what pastor calls 'the comma' in what Abba is speaking (by His Spirit) in the midst, regarding “Seeing IS Believing;” we turned the corner  toward His “purpose,” or the “why” of His speaking.

[cf Eph 3:11] (re. “the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord)

We were reminded that the “word” is sent, out of “the purpose” of the Lord, to “reconcile us, and enable us to continue in the faith; grounded and settled in the “hope” of the gospel.”

[Col 1:21-23]

Why? Because, it is written: “He that is entered into His rest hath ceased from his own works,” and Abba's speaking is toward the end that we might be enabled to “rest” IN HIM, and His “finished” work. For “faithful is He that calleth (us), who also will do it.”

[1 Thes 5:24]

ThenSingsMySoul:

AND I SAW HIM, HIGH AND LIFTED UP;

WITH POWER, AND GRACE, AND AUTHORITY.

AND HE SHALL REIGN, IN THE MIDST OF US,

FOR EVER, AND EVER, AMEN!

Jenelsie's Corner (#167)

Dear Grace and Truth,

Well, this first set of holidays has passed us, and we can relax from all the “work” that has been involved.  For some of us there was a break from our “routine” of prayer and fellowship with the Lord, as we would describe it.  Returning to that “place” is usually also a “work” that can take us right up to the next holiday.

Be reminded, however, that our Lord has supplied His remedy through His words of teaching for dealing with our “work.”  The Holy Ghost is a “quickening spirit” which causes us to respond to HIM with thanksgiving and praise, giving worship right in the “midst” of a situation.  Sometimes HE leads us to another room, down another aisle in the store, or even to the bathroom just to be exalted in our minds.  As HE has spoken, the very WORD of GOD is “quickened” and “powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit…and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”  So whatever the “battle” is, HE has already declared that it’s not ours but HIS.  Our situation does not limit nor change Him.

Receive the encouragement to “rest” in HIM and “cease from our own works” during the remainder of this holiday season.  Our Lord Jesus and Savior is the FAITHFUL ONE, AND AS WE BOLDLY GO TO THE THRONE OF GRACE, WE MAY OBTAIN MERCY AND FIND HIS GRACE TO STRENGTHEN US IN THE TIME OF NEED.

Hallelujah!

Love in Christ Jesus,

Sister Howell

Pastor’s Wife

Believing Is Seeing

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

Here's another sermon note: The “way” of the Lord is to send (speak) a “prophetic vision” (for us to “rest” in) before the promised victory, that is to follow after.

There is a pattern, from the garden of Eden to the garden of Gethsemane, that “the word of the Lord (of death, and life after death) is tried,” and proven. [Ps 18:30]

From “thou shalt surely die” to “Thou shalt make His soul an offering for sin ...He (the Son) shall live again [TLB] and God's program shall prosper in His (Son's) hands,” the Lord never ceases from speaking His purpose, “from before the foundation of the world.”

[Gen 2:17; Jn 10:17-18, cf. Isa 53:10]

The lesson that must continually be learned is “though (the word spoken) tarry (we must rest in, and) wait for it (in faith); because (the word prophesied) will surely come (to pass).“ And we shall SEE Jesus, “if we hold fast the profession of our faith” (in Him) until the end; judging Him “faithful who (has) promised;” saying: “Ye believe in God, believe also in Me.”
 

[Hab 2:3; Heb 10:23; Jn 14:1] 

ThenSingsMySoul:

MINE EYES HAVE SEEN THE GLORY OF THE COMING OF THE LORD.

HE IS TRAMPLING OUT THE VINTAGE WHERE THE GRAPES OF WRATH ARE STORED.

HE HAS LOOSED THE FATEFUL LIGHTNING OF HIS TERRIBLE SWIFT SWORD;
HIS TRUTH IS MARCHING ON!!!

Jenelsie's Corner (#166)

Dear Grace and Truth,

The depth of understanding our Lord is imparting to us is a wonderful blessing to be treasured.  HE has given the way—in all our getting, get an understanding of ‘who’ the Lord Jesus is and ‘what’ He has done in us, the church.  In the beginning the plan was made that the church, or the people of God, would receive clarity about our new life in His kingdom as we convene and present ourselves as the “called out ones.”  Pastors have been provided by our Father to feed His sheep and give the understanding according to the truth of His Word which must be revealed to us.

So He tells us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves and to give ready ear for ‘hearing’ to get an understanding.  Mind you, ‘hearing’ is not to gain knowledge for puffing us up, as were the Pharisees, but for ‘living’ in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Our time away from the gathering unto our Lord and Father, then, actually hinders us from getting the necessary understanding for ‘living’ unto Him.

Be encouraged to yield to the call to come together at the appointed time for this congregation.  Our Lord will strengthen you to do so.  Commit His (this) desire for you back to Him in prayer and watch Him bring it to past.

Hallelujah to our God and King!

Love and blessings,

Sister Jenelsie

Pastor’s wife

Stand Ye Still & SEE

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

Sunday, November 15th, 2009

For the record, allow me to paraphrase a significant outline point, to our ongoing teaching on “Seeing IS Believing:”  (Jesus) The “Word” Was Sent (“made flesh”) For (our) Vision.

The Apostle John wrote (by the Spirit of God) that “we beheld  His glory (we SAW Him with our eyes), (even) the glory as of the only begotten of the Father” [Jn 1:14; 1 Jn 1:1]

When the Lord said, thru the Psalmist, “Be still and know that I AM God;”  He was reaffirming the paradigm by which His people would perceive, SEE, and know their God … by waiting and watching for His “word,” spoken, to come to pass.

[Ps 46:10]

It is written:“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” If Abba had not sent His Son (the “word”), “in the fulness of time” (to redeem us), then we would have been UNABLE TO SEE or receive His great “gift” of salvation (life).

[Prov 29:18; Gal 4:4; 2 Cor 9:15]  

Jesus told Thomas: “Because you have seen me, you have believed: BLESSED ARE THEY THAT HAVE NOT SEEN, AND YET BELIEVED.”

[Jn 20:29]

ThenSingsMySoul:

I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVETH,

AND HE SHALL STAND AT THE LATTER DAY UPON THE EARTH:

AND THOUGH AFTER MY SKIN WORMS DESTROY THIS BODY,

YET IN MY FLESH SHALL I SEE GOD!

[Job 19:25-26]

http://tinyurl.com/ydlakvk

Handel's Messiah

But We See Jesus

Saturday, November 7th, 2009

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

As the Spirit labours, so patiently, with us to open our eyes of “faith;” the “light”(“word”) of revelation is beginning to illuminate our path, as a lamp unto our feet.

We were reminded that, “in the time of trouble,” God's people turned their eyes toward the Lord, and prayed;

And Abba's response was: “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude (enmity); for the battle is not your's, but God's.” [2 Chr 20:5-12, 15] 

The prophet Elisha's servant, Gehazi, had a blind side (when it came to trusting in the “word” of the Lord; that there was “more on Elisha's side, than the enemies' side”) until Elisha prayed that the Lord would “open his eyes.” That was when Gehazi saw “the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about.” [2 Ki 6:15-17]

Faith has eyes.

It is written: “(God) has put all things under (Christ's) feet,” “That in all things (The Lord Jesus Christ) might have preeminence.” [Heb 2:8a; Col 1:18]

“But (though) we (do) not yet SEE all things under (Christ's feet)...WE SEE JESUS ...crowned with glory and honor!” “And He shall reign for ever, and ever!”            [Heb 2:8c-9; Rev 11:15]

ThenSingsMySoul:

O LORD, OUR EYES ARE ON YOU,

BE MAGNIFIED,

O LORD, BE MAGNIFIED!  

Jenelsie's Corner (#165)

My Grace and Truth Family,

When our Lord sent His Word on last Sunday, a stronghold in my mind was pulled down.  My ears were opened to hear HIM speak, “Don’t ask for an increase in horses…more arrows…as a remedy or an answer to your current circumstance.”  My dependence on the ‘natural’ is so subtle that the WORD, which is quick and powerful to the division of even my thoughts, must illuminate where the ‘natural’ has dominated my thinking.  The Holy Ghost brought me to repentance and then to cry out to Him in my “fight to believe” that ‘deliverance’ is “not by my power, nor by my might, but by His Spirit.”

The Lord set me free so that His strength might be received to learn to trust Him with this particular problem.  The Lord works wonderfully in us to be His witness that whom HE sets free is free indeed.

So I join you all again that we might have one voice in shouting our thanksgiving to our Father for a new and different LIFE in CHRIST JESUS.  Hallelujah!!

Blessings,

Sister Jenelsie

Pastor’s Wife

Seeing IS Believing

Seeing IS Believing

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009

Here are some “apples of gold” excerpted from the “word” spoken in the midst of our Celebration Cruise; for your edification.

The Lord saves His people BY A “WORD.” [Ps 107:20]

Part of the reality of being a Christian is the ability to see (or perceive clearly) the unseen (ie. things that are not as though they are) [Rom 4:17]

Our tendency (in this body of flesh) is to pray more about the things that we see, than what Abba has said.

There is a standard equipping (by the Holy Ghost) IN the believer that enables us to discern and operate in an invisible sphere; as Abba speaks those invisible things to us in the midst of, and over against the enmity; as Moses “forsook Egypt and endured affliction, as seeing Him who is invisible.” [Heb 11:24-27]

Abba is so ordering our steps; as we face uncertain days, in this untoward world, that we will no longer look to the “arm of flesh;” but our eyes will be laser focused on the “word” spoken THRU (or out from) the flesh.

ThenSingsMySoul:

OPEN OUR EYES, LORD

WE WANT TO SEE JESUS;

TO REACH OUT AND TOUCH HIM,

AND TELL HIM WE LOVE HIM!

[Jn 12:21]

Jenelsie's Corner (#162)

Jenelsie Howell

Thursday, October 15th, 2009

My Grace and Truth Family,

We, as a body of believers called “Grace and Truth”, have been blessed with the preaching and teaching of the engrafted Word of our Lord, which is able to save our souls.  The Lord Jesus has asked this question:  What profit is it for a person to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?  Our cry unto Father God is for our souls to be saved.  The WORD is our salvation; the LORD JESUS is the WORD!  We are given the “ears” to hear the Word sent through the preacher.  Furthermore we have been taught by our shepherd the “way” of salvation in making our election sure.  This is the promise made to those who believe:  Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that “whosoever shall call on the Name of the LORD shall be saved.”  Hallelujah!

Your sister in Christ Jesus,

Jenelsie

Pastor’s Wife

Jenelsie's Corner (#161)

My Grace and Truth Family,

I heard a TV advertisement on last week which promoted an “unbreakable” bond between doctor and patient.  After chuckling to myself, I remembered what our LORD has spoken to us about HIM being our “healthcare provider”.  HE established a bond between “doctor and patient” unparalleled by none other in the earth.  A life was given, and blood was shed to ensure an inseparable relationship throughout eternity.

The doctor/patient bond is by far a close partnership by the course of this world, the kingdom of darkness.  Now we have been translated from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of His Dear Son where the partnership is established by covenant.  According to covenant, all of our needs are supplied, not just healthcare.  We have the best coverage in this world, and we are charged in the provision of this covenant to trust in the living GOD, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.

Our God has supplied all our need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!  Hallelujah!

Your friend and sister,

Jenelsie Howell

Pastor’s Wife

Striking Contrast

Friday, October 9th, 2009

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

In a “word,” that has been ministered in the sanctuary: “Earing The Lord,” it has been established that “FAITH COMES BY HEARING, AND HEARING”(emphasis by the Holy Ghost)[Rom 10:17]

O, that the Lord would allow that we would have “ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to the church.”  For, you see, there is greater meaning to the verse: “We walk by faith, and not by sight.” [2 Cor 5:7]

We heard the Lord say that “faith” is “said unseen” vs “seen unsaid;” which set the context for the contrast between the “invisible” and the “visible.”

Can any one of you tell me what “faith” looks like?

You can't see “faith,” but YOU CAN SEE THE FRUIT OF FAITH                                  (evidence of  faith's working).

If you can't see the evidence (ie. the “fruit”) of “faith,” then what did the Lord mean when He asked the question: “When the Son of man (returns), shall He find faith on the earth.?” [Lk 18:8]

One might ask the question: “Why Faith?” And the answer is “Without “faith” it is impossible to please God (ie. satisfy God's requirements): for he that (comes) to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” [Heb 11:6]

 

ThenSingsMySoul:

HAVE FAITH IN GOD, HAVE FAITH IN GOD,

HAVE FAITH IN GOD, HAVE FAITH, HAVE FAITH IN GOD!  

Jenelsie's Corner (#160)

Jenelsie Howell

Friday, October 2nd, 2009

My Grace and Truth Family,

Can you reflect just a moment on the awesome presence of our Lord in our midst on last Sunday?  You’ll give Him a glorious praise and thanksgiving for His mighty act towards Elder Smith.  He gave us His prescription for our infirmity.  The Lord was given the preeminence, and He reconciled all things to Himself.

There is no doubt that the Lord is taking us as a “body” within His “body” from “faith to faith."  His glory is being revealed in us, His new creature, the church.  He showed us His mighty power working in us as one by His ONE Spirit.  His virtue flowed out of us so we could minister health to our brother.

As we are in His presence again today, we can speak these words with all boldness because of His Spirit:  “Here we are to worship; here we are to bow down; here we are to declare that You are our God (Lord)”.  Hallelujah!

Your sister in Christ Jesus,

Pastor’s Wife

Jenelsie's Corner (#159)

Jenelsie's Corner (#159)

Jenelsie Howell

Sunday, September 27th, 2009

Dear Grace and Truth Family,

I have so much to tell you about the “walk” the Lord led me through concerning my eyes.  My sight is now restored—glory to our Father and Lord Jesus!

Please receive my appreciation to each of you as you hoped with me, believed with me, and waited with me until the fulfillment of His promise.  You were chosen by our Father to minister His grace to me as it so pleased Him.  Now we all give witness to HIS G R E A T N E S S and faithfulness to honor His covenant and manifest His healing.

Because of HIM, I love you.

 “Now unto Him who is able to keep us from falling (turning back, choosing another) and to present us faultless (complete in what is needed for Him) before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.  To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen”

Your sister,

Pastor’s Wife

Show & Tell

Show and Tell
GTF Elder C. Edward Smith
Thursday, September 24th, 2009

Regarding the “out-working” of the “in-working” of HOPE, we were told that “what God does He proves” ...not in order that we might SEE {proof of His power to do}; but in order that He might SHOW {display His power to do}, as a witness that “this is done;” for all to see how “done” it is.

Although “hope that is seen is not hope,” we were told “there are “words” we need to hear (that speak of invisible things, that will have a 'tangible' effect on us);” because, it is written, “we are saved by hope.” [Rom 8:24]

The “in-working” of HOPE is by the quickening of God's Spirit IN YOU; [Rom 8:11] “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.” [Phil 1:6]

From the moment that “God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness,” the Lord was setting in motion the means by which He would ultimately (reveal) SHOW Himself in/thru human flesh. [Jn 1:14] “And we beheld His (invisible) glory ...as of the only begotten of the Father.”

It was after His appearing in flesh that He began to speak “words” that would further unveil His purpose to perfect those who thru “faith” would have “an anchor for (their) soul.” [Heb 6:13-19]

And we have come to know that God (the Father) has ordained that the “WORD that goes out of (His) mouth” would DO SOMETHING “IN the thing whereto (He) sent it” [Isa 55:11]

ThenSingsMySoul:

(SOMEONE) WITHIN ME HOLDETH THE REINS,

(SOMEONE) WITHIN ME BANISHES (THE) PAIN

(SOMEONE'S) WITHIN ME, THAT I CAN'T EXPLAIN

ALL I (DO) KNOW (IS) I THANK MY GOD

I'VE GOT (SOMEONE) WITHIN!

Jenelsie's Corner (#158)

Jenelsie's Corner (#158)

by Pastor's Wife, Jenelsie Howell

Sunday, September 20th, 2009

Dear Grace and Truth,

We can certainly say that as part of the family of God, we are experiencing distresses, woes, trials, and even temptations. Of course, our Daddy said “there would be days like these” and our Lord and King, Jesus, gave us a new life which includes “overcoming” as we walk through the experiences just as He overcame. With this new life, our Father has equipped and supplied us with the Holy Spirit, our present “help” in the time of need. We have been given all things richly which pertain to Life and Godliness.

When our Lord spoke to us on Sunday concerning HOPE, He was not just talking in the abstract. The Lord was, in fact, teaching us about the “inworking” and “outworking” by the Holy Spirit during every experience to the end of “hope” being manifested. We belong to the GOD of HOPE. HE caused the Lord Jesus to live in hope while in His body of flesh; now that we are joined to the Lord as His body, we live unto Him in hope.

Our God is W O N D E R F U L!

Love in Christ Jesus,

Sister Jenelsie

Pastor’s Wife

Faith Availeth Much

Faith Availeth Much

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Wisdom spoke (in our midst) that there is a “spiritual” sustenance that the Lord

ministers to the church; via the Holy Ghost, that will actually put in check “the law of sin and death,” in our members; to sustain us (in these bodies) for the witness.

Hence, that we may “be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.”

We were reminded that guilt and “condemnation” fortifies “the law of sin and death;” and we found our focus being diverted from “faith” to “law.”

You see “faith” is Him focused, while the “law” is self focused. In other words, the “law” perverts our focus from what (He) must do to what (we) must do.

The “law,” with it's attendant “condemnation,” was introduced to provoke “repentance” unto “faith.” For without “faith” it is impossible to please God.

Without a healthy serving of “faith,” that is unleavened by the “law” of works (of which we would dare to boast), we would perish of starvation; being alienated from the Life of The Vine.

No “faith,” No Life! Know “faith,” Know Life!

Only “faith” availeth anything

ThenSingsMySoul:

MY FAITH LOOKS UP TO THEE,
THOU LAMB OF CALVARY,

SAVIOUR DIVINE.

NOW HEAR ME WHILE I PRAY

TAKE ALL MY SIN AWAY

O, LET ME FROM THIS DAY

BE WHOLLY THINE.

Jesus Paid It All

Jesus Paid It All

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

Saturday, August 22, 2009

I OWED A DEBT I COULD NOT PAY. HE PAID A DEBT HE DID NOT OWE.

I NEEDED SOMEONE TO (WASH) MY SINS AWAY.

AND NOW I SING A BRAND NEW SONG, AMAZING GRACE.

CHRIST JESUS PAID THE DEBT THAT I COULD NEVER PAY.

Truer words could not have been penned to convey the revelation that “what God requires He provides” (ie. Jehovah Jireh/”God will provide Himself a Lamb”) [Gen 22:8, 13]

In keeping with His purpose to redeem His fallen creation, Jehovah commanded Abraham to “offer” his “only son” to Him (as a shadow of “The Lamb of God” that would take away the sin of the world) [Jn 1:29]

God requires “repentance,” “faith,” and “obedience, saying: “(It is) the goodness of God (that) {leads) (you) to repentance;” for “...faith ...is the gift of God;” and “it is God (who is working) in you, helping you want to obey Him, and then helping you do what He wants” [Rom 2:4/KJV; Eph 2:8/KJV; Phil 2:13/TLB]

Hence, “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever (believes) in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [Jn 3:16]

Who would have imagined that the “way” of God would be to make “all things new” by cleansing us from all of our filthiness; and giving us a new heart, and a new spirit; and causing us to walk in His statutes and keep His judgments.

[Eze 36: 25-27]

With this understanding, you and I can surely sing: ALL I HAVE NEEDED THY HAND HAS PROVIDED ...

ThenSingsMySoul:

A CHANGE, A CHANGE HAS COME OVER ME.

(CHRIST) CHANGED MY LIFE, AND NOW I'M FREE!

A WONDERFUL CHANGE HAS COME OVER ME.

CHANGED, CHANGED, CHANGED,

I'M SO GLAD HE CHANGED ME.

[Walter Hawkins]

Jenelsie's Corner (#156)

Jenelsie's Corner (#156)

Jenelsie Howell

Friday, August 21, 2009

Dear Grace and Truth,

Peace from our Father through our Lord Jesus Christ. Cease from your works of trying to find rest for your souls. The Lord Jesus bids us to come to Him when there is anxiety, cares, worry, and the like. Our Lord has made it possible for our minds to stop stirring with agitation over troubles. He speaks so our minds may be affected. The Word of the Lord causes us to see things differently and to think differently. The Holy Ghost brings the difference as He works in us to establish the truth of the Word and to reveal Jesus as the Prince of Peace.

As we “hear” the Word of the Lord, His peace is given and manifested. Little by little we find that our souls give way to His peace, which passes all understanding. The LORD JESUS is our PEACE. Hallelujah!

Love in Christ Jesus,

Sister Jenelsie

Pastor’s Wife

Jenelsie's Corner (#155)

Jenelsie's Corner: #155

Jenelsie Howell
Sunday, August 16th, 2009

My Grace and Truth Family,

Our faithful God and Father has brought us through another week. For some the week was uneventful, as we see it, but for others the week was filled with trouble and trials. Whatever we walked through or did not walk through was by the grace of our Lord. He orchestrates the day that the Holy Ghost might reveal Jesus as Lord of all. Our Lord is so exalted that it does not matter what state we find ourselves in; the Holy Ghost shows Him as greater and higher. His preeminence in all things proves out the greatness of His might and that His Name is above all others.

As we give ourselves away to Him again today, we can expect a provocation by the Holy Ghost to praise and worship our Lord with thanksgiving for His faithfulness in everything He brought us through. Hallelujah!

Your sister in Christ Jesus,

Jenelsie, Pastor’s wife

www.gtfellowship.net

Jenelsie's Corner (#154)

Jenelsie's Corner

Jenelsie Howell

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Dear Grace and Truth Family,

How wonderful our Lord is to supply the FAITH we need, for we walk by faith and not by sight in the Kingdom of God. He sends His word to us, and we hear them, receive them, believe them, hope in them—this is our faith; we wait on Him to perform the very WORDS sent. Our confidence is in Him and not on any works of our flesh to bring His WORDS to pass. So be reminded and strengthened in the truth that we do not give ourselves FAITH, but the Lord Jesus does. HE is the author and finisher of the faith we live by. Let’s hear and receive Him today, for He has the WORDS of eternal life for us.

Praise be unto Him forever and ever, and unto God our heavenly Father.

Hallelujah to our Lord and King!

Love in Christ Jesus,

Sister Jenelsie Howell

Pastor’s Wife

You Were Chosen

You Were Chosen

GTF Elder C. Edward Smith

July 26, 2009

On the sixth day, of creation, God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the (works) (of) (our) (hands)” [Gen 1:26; Ps 8:6]

Afterward, King David, “the sweet Psalmist of Israel” declared:

“O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me...You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breath. Every day was recorded in your Book.” [Ps 139:1,16/KJV-TLB]

“Then the Word of the Lord came unto (Jeremiah) , saying, Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations ...Then the Lord put forth His hand, and touched (Jeremiah's) mouth...and said unto (him), Behold I have put My words in thy mouth.” [Jer 1:5, 9]

After Paul's Damascus encounter with Jesus, who instructed him to “Go into the city and wait to be told what you must do,” The Lord said unto (Ananias), “Go and do what I say. For Paul is my chosen vessel to take my message to the (Gentiles) , and before kings, and the children of Israel.” [Acts 9:15]

So what do Adam, David, Jeremiah and Jesus have in common?

To give you a hint, every scriptural account is mounting proof of God's sovereignty to chose, and determine what satisfies His pleasure. [Rev 4:11]

And this is where you and I fit into the picture. You see, Jesus taught His disciples:

“You have not chosen me, (but) I have chosen you” [Jn 15:16] “...and (when you are converted) (you) shall be my witnesses ...” [Lk 22:32;Acts 1:8]; which speaks of God's power (as the Potter) to make us vessels of His purpose.

Upon discovering that Jesus was the immovable object he encountered on the road to Damascus, Paul asked: “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6]

ThenSingsMySoul:

GO YE THEREFORE AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, GO, GO, GO.

GO YE THEREFORE AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, GO, GO, GO.

BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, THE SON, AND THE HOLY GHOST: GO, GO, GO!

[Matt 28:19]

Jenelsie's Corner (#153)

Jenelsie's Corner

Jenelsie Howell

Sunday, July 19, 2009

My Grace and Truth Family,

Our Lord says for us to draw close to Him, and He will draw close to us. So how do we draw close to Him? Well, the “closeness” occurs through a process, which is a familiar concept to us regarding the “way” of the Lord. Let’s be reminded that He starts the process, however, through the “work” of His Spirit.

A portion of the process includes “calling upon Him”. We have received teaching and provocation in recent days about our privilege to call out to Him fervently in prayer. Our Lord has spoken that He is a “rewarder of them who diligently seek Him”. The Lord Jesus is revealed to us again and again in the “light” of His Word. “To know Him…” is the cry of the believer or the child of God.

Being in His presence today is a witness of the “work” that He is doing in us to “draw close”. Yield to the “work” of His SPIRIT! Hallelujah!

Love in Christ Jesus,

Sister Howell

Pastor’s Wife