A Young Man of God

Joel Micah is a young man destined to be a part of bringing the power and glory of Jesus Christ to his generation -- a revivalist and servant of the Most High God!!

You're a handsome lad Joel in your 7th grade homeschool photo (age 12) and we wanted to tell you Merry Christmas. May God ignite you with the fire of the Holy One in 2006!

All our love,

Dad & Mom

[Photos courtesy of Burvee Photograhy]

2006 40-DAY PRAYER FOCUS

Greetings to our friends in the name of Jesus. Are you ready for a new season of enlargement? Are you ready for Divine connections? We are excited about and looking forward to what God is going to do in 2006!

About a month ago we received a 40-Day Prayer Focus from Chuck Pierce (Glory of Zion International - http://www.glory-of-zion.org/). As we read through the focus, it so resounded with the Spirit of God in us, that we immediately began to use it in mid-November.

Shirley, Joel, and I began “Day One” in our home and what started out as a “normal” family prayer time turned into a God-time we will never forget! For 3 hours we poured our hearts out to God and blessed Him for “the good, the bad, and the ugly” of 2005. God responded to us and showed up in a powerful way. We knew He approved of the direction we were headed.

Since then, our church (The Love Church), has decided to do this prayer focus as a Body, combined with fasting and almsgiving to bring in the first 40 days of 2006. Needless to say, we would recommend you ask God if this is something for you to do. If you hear “yes”, and pray, and “watch for and recognize your Divine connections”, and obey in 2006, we believe you will begin to move into your season of enlargement and all that God has for you in 2006 and beyond.

CLICK HERE to go to the webpage with the 40-Day Prayer Focus that you can print out.

Keep pressing in to the Lover of your Soul. He is faithful to the end!

For His Glory,
Joe, Shirley & Joel Cuda

God's Interns

You have got to see what God is doing in Washington, D.C.!!

Lou Engle's interview about how God is using The Justice House of Prayer was on ABC's Nightline program earlier this week.

You can view the program online on Nightline's website at http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/ or get the direct video feed at http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=1357615!

This is very worth the 7 minutes of time it will take to see it. God is using people through worship/prayer to make a difference in our nation. This group of interns is praying 24/7 for the Supreme Court -- and God is moving and changes are clearly being made for a turn around of Roe vs. Wade and other matters of great impotance to life and liberty.

As a side note... This interview was totally positive toward what was happening there. I don't recall ever seeing that before with a major network... Could it be that God is beginning to do exactly what he said he was going to do with the media through the mouth of His prophet, Kim Clement (and many others)? I believe so... We're ready God!!!

50th Birthday Celebration

November 26, 2005

Part 1
by Shirley Cuda

"Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land."

Proverbs 31:23

On this day, at 5:31 in the early morning hours, a half century ago --- yes, 50 years! --- a tiny baby boy was born.

Weighing in at 7 lbs. 8 oz. and 21 inches long, his given name was Joseph Michael Cuda, who would one day become an anointed worship leader taking people "behind the veil into the Holy of Holies" and now the founder of Love and Fire Ministries.

But let's go back a bit, because this was truly a "miracle child". His parents, Charlie and Alberta, had just become newborn Christians a few years earlier. At that time, they had 2 children, Rick and Sandy, and their family was complete -- as far as they figured. But after their salvation, God put a desire in their heart to have more children and dedicate them (along with the other two) to the Kingdom of God.

When Alberta was 4 months pregnant with baby #4, she got up one morning and was preparing to drive to town, but Charlie said he didn't think she should go because he'd had a dream the night before that she'd been in a car crash. However being a young Christian, she didn't really take the warning too seriously -- not realizing it was from God.

Later that day, as she was driving with 2 of their children, a truck pulled out in her lane and was fast approaching for a head-on collision. There was traffic on her left and a yard full of people on her right side and she knew if she swerved to get out of the truck's path, she would hit that family. So the lives of her and her children were in God's hand.

The oldest daughter was in the back seat holding and singing to her younger sister when the truck hit. The steering wheel was jammed into Alberta's stomach and the doctor feared for several days that she would miscarry. But even way back then, Alberta knew the power of prayer of prayer. She totally recovered, ad by the grace of God nobody else was seriously injured in the car crash. Five months later, a healthy baby boy, Joseph (Michael) was born. Praise God!

Joseph was (according to his mother) as close to a "perfect" child as any could get. (As his wife I'm inclined to agree that had to be the case because he's so absolutely close to "perfect" now!)

He was an adorable child, with a head full of thick blond curls and wide-open clear blue eyes and a winning smile.

At a very young age -- 2 years or younger -- Joe showed great delight in music and his mother remembers from that time on he was always drumming on something! He took drum and guitar lessons at age 11.

Joe was a studious child -- loved school and was a perfectionist. He was never finished with a project until he got it exactly right. (I still see that trait today!)

When Joe was about 11 years old, God got hold of his heart through the life and teaching of the Apostle Paul. He began to carry his Bible to school and I believe that is when God began to develop the heart of evangelism in him.

By the time he was 15 years old, Joe and 2 of his sisters, Debbie (16) and Maria (13), were traveling to various churches in the Northeast region and singing as "The True Happiness Trio". The name of the trio came from the first song Joe wrote called "True Happiness" and it speaks of the love of Jesus being the only "true happiness" in this world. With the backing of their parents, the sibling trio were able to record their first album with that title song at a studio in Virginia Beach, VA. I thank God for those foundational years and all the training and prayers of his parents, and I know that carried him through some rough years ahead.

As the enemy of our soul will always attempt, satan began laying a trap for this "would-be warrior" for God's Kingdom. Joe's revelation of "true happiness" began to grow dim in the light and lure of a bright future in the music arena. He'd met up with a few other guys, long-time friend Tim Chamberlain being one of them, and formed a secular band and began to play first at school events which then led to other gigs. He and the others began to dream of a music studio and writing and recording their own music -- hopefully a major contract with a major record label.

In the meantime, his course was set -- set on college..... first to Berklee College of Music in Boston for 4 years, after which he emerged with a Bachelor Degree in Music Composition. From there he was offered a teaching associate position at the University of Massachusettes in the jazz department. There he pursued his Master's Degree while teaching undergrads to help fund his tuition.

The cost was great not only to his Dad's pocketbook, but to his future as well. Many precious years were lost -- although I won't say wasted, because God is able to redeem lost time. More about that later.....

CHECK FOR PART 2 TO READ SOME MORE OF JOE'S STORY.

Powerlessness: Unnecessary and Unbalanced part 3

"So how do we walk in the power of God? First, we must pursue Him. The life of power is a life of abiding in Christ... The hunger for the demonstration of power must not be separated from our passion for Him. But realize this, our hunger for Him in part must be seen in our lustful pursuit of spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 14:1). That is His command!" Bill Johnson

We must be in and stay in pursuit of an encounter with God. No one's live has ever been truly changed without an encounter. This is clearly seen throughout the Scriptures. We must be willing to do whatever it takes to receive these kind of life-changing encounters over and over again. We must be willing to go wherever we need to go.

Bill Johnson tells of an encounter he had in Toronto in 1995 and how it has changed his life and his ministry forever. You've got to get this book and read it if you don't have it yet. It is a powerful testimony of what pusuing God with all your heart can lead too -- even changing the world.

"Jesus healed everyone who came to Him," Pastor Johnson states. "To accept any other standard is to bring the Bible down to our level of experience, and deny the nature of the One who changes not.

"... If the average Christian life around me falls short of the Biblical standard, I must pursue against the grain. If people are not being healed... I will pursue the healing until it comes or the individual goes to be with the Lord. I will not lower the standard of the Bible to my level of experience."

I need more of this tenacity in my life Lord. I'm beginning to awaken to it, but I'm not there yet. Holy Spirit lead me into a life of obedience and power.

The author goes on to give some more practical advice about how to walk in the power of God but I don't have time to go into it right now.

I did want to mention one more thing that Bill Johnson mentions in Chapter 10, he says, "If we teach, preach, or witness and nothing happens, we must go back to the drawing board -- our kness. Do not make excuses for powerlessness. For decades the Church has been guilty of creating doctrine to justify their lack of power, instead of crying out to God until He changed them. The lie they came to believe has given rise to an entire branch of theology that has infected the Body of Christ with a fear of the Holy Spirit. It deceives under the guise of staying undeceived. The Word must go forth with power... Without question, walking with God in power will cost all who give themselves to this mandate. But the absence of power is even more costly."

The Holy Spirit is so important. He is living water to our thirsty souls. He is our comforter and our teacher. He is the very breath that we breathe. He came on the day of Pentecost in power and we still need that power today. I, for one, do not want to settle for any thing less than the power of the Holy Ghost being active in my life. And in order to keep it I know I must give it away. We must not settle for a powerless life or a powerless Church.


You can find "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" by Bill Johnson at the MUSIC AND BOOKSTORE link on our website -- www.loveandfire.net. It is being offered at a 21% discount.

Powerlessness: Unnecessary and Unbalanced part 2

"A counterfeit hundred dollar bill does not nullify the value of the real thing. Likewise, a counterfeit, abused, or abandoned gift does not invalidate our need for the Holy Spirit's power to live as Jesus did... the abuses of one person never justify the neglect of another." Bill Johnson

I have seen this happen before. A man who ministers in faith and power fell. So what happens next? The baby gets thrown out with the bath water. We get leary of those who flow in faith and power. The mear mention of the mans name causes fear of what would happen if we allow that to happen again. We start shutting down ministries such as those that flow in the gifts of miracles and prophecy because we are afraid of their might be character issues in those that are gifted that way. That fear leads the way to powerlessness. It's a sad thing when that happens and I believe it grieves the heart of the One who gives us those gifts to bring life to the people He loves so much.

Bill Johnson said in his book in Chapter 10, "Many of those who are embarrassed over the abuses of power, and the subsequent blemishes upon the Church, are seldom offended over the absence of signs and wonders... For every charlatan there are a thousand good citizens who accomplish little or nothing for the Kingdom."

God help us! What an indictment and how accurate. How many of us are actually making a difference in our community? But yet we can use someone elses failings as an excuse for our disobedience.

Bill goes on to say, "If I focus on my need to protect myself from deception, I will always be overwhelmingly aware of the power of the devil. If my heart is completely turned to the One who is 'able to keep me from falling,' He is the only One I become impressed with. My life reflects what I see with my heart."

We become like what we behold. O, we've got to stay in love with Jesus -- we've got to spend time with Him. It is crucial to our very existence. We can't let go of that. If we do, we will be powerless.


More on Chapter 10 next time.


We have been reading this book during our family reading times. You can find it at the MUSIC AND BOOKSTORE link on our website -- http://www.loveandfire.net/. It is being offered at a 21% discount and, I believe, would be of great benefit to all who want more of God in their lives.

Powerlessness: Unnecessary and Unbalanced part 1

"Some Christians actually have considered it to be more noble to choose character over power. But we must not seperate the two. It is an unjustafiable, illigitimate choice. Together they bring us to the only real issue -- obedience." Bill Johnson

We have been reading this book during our family reading times called "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" by Bill Johnson. You can find it at the MUSIC AND BOOKSTORE link on our website -- http://www.loveandfire.net/. It is being offered at a 21% discount and could start you on the road to "A Life of Miracles".

At the end of chapter 9, the author states, "In the next chapter we'll discover which is more important, character or power. The answer may surprise you". This is a "teaser" that drives you to go on to the next chapter even though it's late at night and you're very tired. That is exactly what it did to me. There are some very key thoughts on "character or power". There is much that is noteworthy, but I won't get to it all, I'm sure.

The idea of powerlessness in the church today runs throughout the chapter. There are some hard-hitting words that will either shake us into obedience or harden our hearts toward the truth Pastor Johnson is presenting.

It's a religious mindset that says, "I'll pursue signs and wonders when I know I have more of the character of Christ in me." Without the power of God, Christians are just like any other good/nice citizens. It is only a form of Godliness, without power. Bills says, "Every believer should be highly respected AND MORE. It's the and more part that we're often lacking.

"Does anyone think that God is impressed with us when we tell Him, 'I'll obey You when I have more character?' Character is shaped through obedience. Isn't it ironic that Christians will disobey God by not diligently seeking spiritual gifts -- they won't lay hands on the sick or seek to deliver the demonized -- because they realize their need for more character? In none of the commissions of Jesus to his disciples did He deal specifically with character."

I'm sure that that teaching alone will probably make a good evangelical shake in their shoes. How many of us have thought that we have to become better Christians before we can be used by God? Johnson says, "That single lie has kept us in perpetual immaturity because it protects us from the power-encounter that transforms us. The result is we have converts trained and over trained until they have no life, vision, or ingenuity left."

Sometimes our "wisdom" that comes from experiences such as Bible school and the like, can be more of a hinderance to the works of the Father than a help. Just last Sunday a gentlman testified that he used to be radical -- he used to pray for people in wheelchairs and believe for healing. What happened to that zeal? Was it "life"? Too much teaching? I don't know, but I know I would rather be on the street witnessing with a "baby" Christian who has the fire of God on them, than be with a "seasoned" Christian who is stuck in his ways and has no zeal for God or faith to believe for the impossible to be accomplished! I'm sick AND tired of powerlessness!

Oh God, continue to move in our hearts to stay near your. You are the power source. Without You we have no power to do the works of our Father. Help us to stay plugged into You. Charge us up Lord with your power so that we can change the world.


More on this chapter next time.

THE WORKS OF THE FATHER part 3

"Jason noticed a man on the other side of the room in a wheelchair... Jason encouraged him with God's promises... They held hands and prayed. Strength came into the man's body as the pain left. Jason told him to stand.

The gentleman asked, "What if I fall?"

To which jason responded, "What if you don't?

... in plain sight of all the others in the room this man stood to his feet... Jason turned to the crowd and declared, "God is here to heal!" Quoted from "When Heaven Invades Earth" by Bill Johnson.

What a powerful testimony of what the Holy Spirit can do through an obedient servant. One who fears God more than man and is willing to step out and take a "risk".

Do you want those things to happen in your life? I know I do! Not to receive the glory for myself, but for God to receive the glory and to reveal His heart to all who see... His heart is for people.

"Bill Johnson states, "It is much more than doing miracles, or even getting conversions. The supernatural interventions of God were done to reveal the extravagant heart of the Father for people. Every miracle is a revelation of His nature. And in that revelation is embedded an invitation for relationship... That is the Father's business, and every believer has a part to play in carrying out this priviledged assignment."

This is the honor of all the saints, to carry out the works of the Father and destroy all the works of the evil one. What a joy when sickness and disease is overcome with healing... when death is swallowed up in victory as a sinner receives new life! What a pleasure to see the devil lose again as peoples lives are changed! This is our great priviledge as a child of the Father!

Chapter 9 ends with six practical steps for those who "must pursue God with reckless abandon". I'm going to let you get the book to find out what they are in detail... but here are the heading... don't let the headings fool you, some will surprise you when you find out the deatils contained under each topic:

1. Prayer
2. Study
3. Read
4. Laying on of Hands
5. Associations
6. Obedience

Pick up a copy of this book at the MUSIC AND BOOKSTORE link on our website -- http://www.loveandfire.net/. This book is only for those who are serious about doing the works of the Father!

THE WORKS OF THE FATHER part 2

I'm continuing pointing out a few other things that spoke to me in chapter 9 from Bill Johnson's book, "When Heaven Invades Earth". We're reading this book right now during our family reading times. It is subtitled "A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles" and it is packed full of nuggets of truth that will change us if we will begin to do THE WORKS OF THE FATHER in our daily lives. Pick up a copy of this book at the MUSIC AND BOOKSTORE link on our website -- www.loveandfire.net. God is preparing us for REVIVAL and I believe this is a must message from the heart of God. We must be operating in the works of the Father like Jesus did in order to accomplish His Kingdom work here on earth.

"Most of the Pharisees spent their lives serving God without ever discovering the Father's heart! Jesus offended these religious leaders most because He demonstrated what the Father wanted. While the Pharasees thought God was concerned about the Sabbeth, Jesus worked to help the ones the Sabbath was created for. These leaders were accustumed to the miracles of the Scriptures remaining in the past. But Jesus broke into their comfort zones by ushering the supernatural into their cities. With every miracle He showed the entire religious community the Father's business. For them to adapt, everything would have to be overhauled. It was easier to brand Him a liar, declaring His works to be of the devil and eventually killing this One who reminded them of what had to be changed." Quoted from "When Heaven Invades Earth" by Bill Johnson.

How mindful we must be of this lesson as we continue to press into God, crying out for revival in our lives and our community. We've got to put our "religiousity" to death and allow the Holy Spirit to bring life any way He desires. As leaders, we must stop steadying the "Ark" by putting our hands on it and trying to control it out of fear or some twisted sense of duty to God's Word. Instead we must be quick to listen, slow to speak, and obedient to follow Him wherever He takes us 24/7.

Continuing on with another quote from the book... "The Pharisee's error is a very easy one for us to repeat. They had no undertanding of the Father's heart. And much Christian activity exists that has no relationship to that supreme value. In this present hour we need much more than to learn how to identify our personal gifts or discover ways to be more successful in ministry. We need the Father Himself. We need His presence -- His alone. The gospel is the story of the Father wooing the hearts of mankind through His love. All the other stuff we do overflows from that discovery." Bill Johnson

"WE NEED THE FATHER HIMSELF -- WE NEED HIS PRESENCE ALONE." Everything we do for Him must be out of His heart or it is in vain. Jesus didn't waste a moment on His things, but only did that which He saw His Father do. How did He see what His Father did? He spent time with Him... in His presence... just "being" with Him... no other agenda. How else would Jesus know His Father?

If I never spent time with my son... how would he know me? That time is not always doing things, sometimes it only involves arms on each others shoulders and just smiling at each other. Resting, knowing that all is well between us and that we truly love each other and care for each other!

That's how it should be with our heavenly Father. It is in those times that we will truly know the Fathers heart... and rest assured, His heart is for people. He is in the people business and so should we be. We must be doing the works of the Father but that does not mean we no longer have to be attached to the vine. It's in the "vine-time" that we draw our nourishment that we need for the "doing-time".

God, may we realize it is not one without the other. They both are neccesary for the Kingdom to be manifested here on earth through us.


I'm going to finish out this chapter the next time I write. Have a day filled with the Works of the Father being a major part of your day... seek out such opportunities.

THE WORKS OF THE FATHER part 1

Since Joel, our son, reached 12 years old back in March, occassionally I will mention to him where Jesus was found and what He was doing at the age of 12. Joel has been a "Samuel" in the House of God since he was born. Much of our time is spent at the church and for most of that time, he was (and is) right there with us.

Little by little he is beginning to mature. It is such a pleasure watching this transformation. Although still loving the child play, we can see the changes that are bringing him toward becoming a young man.

Over the past 7 or 8 years Joel has played drums in an occasional service when he was needed and also filled in on the soundboard in "emergency" situations. Like Samuel, he has always been willing to serve when asked. Yesterday, due to an out-of-town youth conference where all of our sound personel were out of town, he was called upon to do sound (by himself) in the Sunday morning service. Although filling in many times before, I had never had to ask him to do it in a Sunday morning service when I wouldn't be there (I had to be at the prison).

As we talked about it throughout the week leading up to yesterday, I could sense that Joel was feeling some of the weight of the responsibility. I reminded him that Jesus was teaching the Scriptures in the temple when He was 12 -- He was doing His Father's business. I said to him that he too would be doing the works of his father (me) and of his heavenly Father by serving in the Body of Christ on Sunday in that position. Our talk seemed to put his mind at rest as he considered it in light of what Jesus was doing at age 12.

The reports I received when I got back to the church yesterday was that he did a very good job. Shirley was nearby in case something major happened, but by God's grace nothing major did go wrong. There were some minor problems, but everything was solved and I believe it was yet another step toward maturity for Joel.

I wrote about that incident because it goes along with chapter 9 from Bill Johnson's book, "When Heaven Invades Earth". We're reading this book right now during our family reading times. It is "A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles" and it is packed full of nuggets of truth that will change us if we will begin to do THE WORKS OF THE FATHER in our daily lives. I would encourage you to pick up a copy of this book at the MUSIC AND BOOKSTORE link on our website -- www.loveandfire.net. It will be well worth your time and money.

So what's chapter 9 about? I'm glad you asked.

Jesus said, "Unless I do the works of the Father, do not believe me." John 10:37 What a bold statement! If I don't demonstrate in power what I am saying, you don't have to believe me. Bill Johnson says, "I hunger for the day when the church will make the same statements to the world. If we're not doing the miracles that Jesus did, you don't have to believe us."

That's risky business! That's laying it all on the line for the Father's business! Your ministry... your reputation... the call God has put on your life to follow Him... everything is linked to doing what we "see" the Father do. Jesus' passion in life was to please the Father and that should be ours.

By the way, Pastor Jim Pierce preached a powerful message yesterday about the "Milk and the Meat" that was along the same lines as this chapter. The meat is the doing of the Father's business. (If you would like a copy on CD, let me know and I'll get you one.)

This chapter is all about purpose. Jesus' purpose, or assignment, was to do the works of the Father and to destroy the works of the devil. These should be our purposes as well.

So, this 12 year old boy named Jesus gives us insight into His purpose on earth with the first and only recorded words he spoke, "Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?" Bill says in the book, "Obeying the Father was His whole ambition. Those words were sufficient. Later in adulthood He confessed that obeying the Father remained His priority. It actually brought Him nourishment -- 'My food (meat) is to do the will of Him who sent me'".

Jesus said, "I can of myself do nothing," "I do not seek my own will but the will of my Father, and "I always do things that please Him".

Lord, let those thoughts be upon us. Let them be in our speech and let them be in our actions. Let them become such a part of us that we will never go back to "life as usual" but our passion will be to please the Father and do His works!


I've got some more on this chapter tomorrow.

WHAT HAPPENED ON OCTOBER 31?

My son, Joel, gets an e-subscription to Nasa News. One of the big news stories for Oct. 31 was the great FIREBALL that occurred that night. When we saw the article the next day with the photos, Shirley mentioned that perhaps that was something to consider as a possible sign referenced in the prophetic word from Kim Clement... I agreed. And then we also mentioned the President's new nominee to the Supreme Court was named Oct. 31.

Today I recieved an article from the elijalist that has even more to add to those two items. It's very easy to follow if you are looking for how the word of the Lord about Oct 31st was fulfilled (at least what we know to this point -- because God often speaks on many levels).

Here is a link to the article: http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=3563

Here is a little bit from the article by Jon & Jolene Hamill, you can find the rest at the above link.

"In writing this prophetic perspective, I am keenly aware that we "see in part and prophesy in part." So let the witness of the Spirit guide you as we examine together recent events that indicate a major shift into a season of national awakening and revival.

"In mid-October, Kim Clement prophesied there would be an "unusual occurrence" on October 31, which would be followed by a four year season of harvest and the greatest move of the Spirit our nation has ever seen.

"Just after 9:00 p.m., while we were worshipping and praying, we experienced an "unusual occurrence." A few of the intercessors saw a huge fireball passing through the skies of Frederick!

"During the conference, Kim also reiterated a prophetic word he shared early in October that America would be mourning on October 31 and that within the dates of October 31 through November 1, our nation would be moving from death to life.

"First, America truly mourned on October 31-- though not due to a terrorist attack or a hurricane. Instead, America mourned the loss of the great civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks. A devoted Christian, Parks' act of gentle defiance brought new meaning to our pledge of "liberty and justice for all." As one political leader noted, Rosa Parks wasn't just the mother of the civil rights movement, but she was "the mother of the America we grew to be."

"Her passing was bittersweet. From October 30 through October 31, Parks became the first woman and the second African American to lie in honor in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol.

"Also on October 31, President Bush nominated Samuel Alito to serve as the next justice on the Supreme Court. Many speculate that Judge Alito, who currently presides over the Third US Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia, could be key in overthrowing legalized abortion in our land.

"Is it possible that, on October 31, Bush nominated a man called by God to shift America from a legacy of death to the empowerment of life? His very name caught our attention, as we had been praying for a nominee with the qualities of the biblical Samuel, who served in Israel as both prophet and judge. "Clearly, we have entered into a season where a "Third Great Awakening," promised by the Lord, is now being released."

Go to the link for the rest of this story on REVIVAL.

The above photo of the FIREBALL is from http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2005/03nov_taurids.htm?list822470

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor from the Lord." Proverbs 18:22

I am so blessed that ZA and Olive Farmer brought you into this world... so you could be brought into my world... and our two individual worlds would become a brand new world, created just for our love... We became one on March 11, 1988 and I truly did obtain the FAVOR OF THE LORD!

THE PERFECT MOTHER...

THE PERFECT WIFE...

I'LL NEVER BE THE SAME

FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE!

YOU'VE STOLEN MY HEART

MY LOVE, MY BRIDE...

AND FREELY GIVEN ME YOURS

I CANNOT DENY!

I AM SO THANKFUL YOU WERE BORN

AND GOD BREATHED LIFE INTO YOU

ON YOUR DAY OF BIRTH!

FOR YOU WERE FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE

BY A CREATIVE GOD WHO LOVED YOU SO...

AND I CAN'T THANK HIM ENOUGH FOR THE GIFT YOU ARE TO ME!

MAY YOUR YEAR BE FILLED WITH LAUGHTER, LIFE, AND LOVE...

MAY EACH DAY BRING YOU INTO HIS REALMS ABOVE.

MAY EACH HOUR YOU KNOW HIM MORE AND MORE AND MORE...

AND MAY GOD GRANT YOUR HEART'S DESIRE EVERY SECOND OF THE YEAR!

I Love You with All My Heart,

Joseph

Have a Wonderful Birthday!

PS - Let's go on a safari...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!

Mom I love you and hope you have a great time on your Birthday.

I thought you would like this picture that I drew on the computer

for your Birthday.

You are the best Mom in the whole world.

LOVE,

JOEL

HOT TIME IN THE OLD JAIL TODAY

I believe I am beginning to experience a new level of The Holy Spirit's anointing in my life. As I have been endeavoring to spend more time with Jesus and be more obedient to Him, He is showing up with power to minister life to people I come into contact with. This was made clearly evident to me Sunday at the Chemung county Jail.

I have been going to the Jail to minister to the inmates for the past 8 years, but never in that time have I experienced a more "open heaven" than Sunday. It wasn't like giving an invitation and having guys raise their hands, then repeat the "sinners prayer" with no tears ever coming from them. Instead, the convicting -- drawing power of the Holy Spirit was bringing tears (many tears) to the prisoners. They were not tears of remorse but tears of true repentance. They realized the sin in their lives and genuinely wanted God to forgive them.

After singing, sharing, and testifying, the presence of the Holy Spirit was thick. I remember saying, "I have never felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in this jail as I do right now. I believe whatever you want from God you can have it... right now. Whether it's healing of sickness, pain or disease, or deliverance from drugs, alcohol, or pornography... whatever you need from Him, He is here for it. RIGHT NOW!"

We began to pray for different needs of the men with the anointing of God on us. I could sense that freedom was coming to many.

At one point I asked if there was anyone who had never received Jesus before but would like to now. A young man named Will raised his hand. As he was looking at me, his eyes began to fill with tears, a flood of tears. He came running up to the front of the room. I knew this was different.

I explained to him very briefly what was happening and then asked him to talk to God in his own words (not a repeat after me prayer). It was beautiful. With tears running down his cheeks he asked God to forgive him. It wasn't the typical Christian lingo, but was truly from Will's heart straight to the heart of the Father. We joined with the heavens and rejoiced as this sinner was being saved by grace.

After Will, several men came up to rededicate their lives to Jesus. They had fallen away and the convicting power of the Holy Spirit drew them back with tears.

It was an incredible day. Great victory for the Kingdom of God that day. I believe it is only the beginning of what is ahead if we will stay in His presence and do what we see Him doing!

"And it shall come to pass afterward That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh..." Joel 2:28

THE FAVOR

"May I find favor in your eyes, my lord the king."

2 samual 16:4

It all began at a local restaurant recently while eating dinner with my family and some friends. We were all enjoying conversation about the Lord, our lives, and the Sunday church service. There was nothing unusual about it at the start, but by the time it was over we knew God had visited with His favor.

Our 12 year-old son, Joel, is not eating off the children's menu these days. A child's portion just doesn't work to fill his appetite anymore. As we were all looking at our menus, I noticed he had his eye on one of the biggest items on the menu. I could see his eyes light up when he looked at it. Then a couple minutes later I asked him what he wanted, and sure enough, it was the "TOUR OF ITALY". Although I would've liked to have gotten it for him, I knew the price was much more than we had for that meal so I had to tell him we couldn't do the "TOUR OF ITALY" today.

Maryann, one of our friends with us said, "Can I buy him the 'TOUR OF ITALY' today?" We happily replied, "Sure." Joel was jubilant that he could eat such a meal. I said, "I guess the favor of God is on you today son!" Shirl and I were both very pleased God had chosen to bless Joel with his desire through a friend.

We all placed our orders and then went back to our conversation. About 5 minutes later I heard a great clattering of dishes and I turned and saw a waitress reaching to catch her tray of dirty dishes as it was falling. Everything ended up on the floor!

At first it appeared to me that some of the heavy dishes had just missed hitting Joel. I thanked God that they had missed him. Just one of those dishes could have done serious damage had it hit him on the head. We asked Joel if he was OK and he said very casually, "Yes, no problem".

A few minutes later a gentleman seated at the table next to us came over to Joel. He stated, "You are one strong boy because you took a hard hit... you are one tough boy!" Then he looked at me very seriously and reiterated, "He REALLY is -- he took a hard hit!"

After he went back to his table Shirl asked Joel, "Are you sure your shoulder's OK?" (She thought a plate had nicked his shoulder.) Then he answered, "My shoulder's fine. It's my head that got hit." None at our table had seen the plates hit his head. Now we understood why the man had emphasized being hit hard. So we thanked God that an angel must've softened the blow.

Later on during our meal Joel had a wide-eyed look on his face - he was astonished about something. We asked him, "What's up?" He lifted his hand from the table and uncovered a $20.00 bill. We wondered where that came from and then he told us it was from the man who had spoken to him earlier. As the man was leaving the restaurant (without us noticing his departure) he had discreetly given it to Joel and said to him, "The Lord said, 'Bless and you will be blessed', so I want to bless you!" and he quickly walked out.

So I said, "Wow Joel, the favor of God REALLY is on you today!" Shirl also pointed out the fact that Joel is a giver and God has seen the many times he has freely given and here was a direct Word from the Lord through a stranger to emphasize the giving principle.

As we were finishing up our meal, the waitress, who had profusely apologized to Joel, returned and quietly asked him if she could buy him a desert. He politely refushed, but she left the dessert menu with him and told him to look it over anyway. Trying to be considerate, he said he wasn't going to order, but his mom explained to him, it would probably make the waitress feel better if he accepted, so that would be the most polite thing to do. At that his eyes lit up and he got a great big grin as he said, "Give me that menu!"

He ordered a special Pumpkin Cheescake with caramel topping and once again I told him that God's favor was definitely on him and remarked jokingly, "I wish I had been sitting in your chair today!"

As our meal eneded our waiter walked over to me with a huge bowl of soup to-go. He told me, "This is for you to take home." That had never happened to me before -- my favorite soup -- no charge -- God's Favor --- YES!!

Then to top it off, the next day Shirl recieved her special favor from God unexpectantly as well. While shopping at the craft store, she saw an item that she would just love to have, but thought she better not get it at this time. When waiting in the checkout line she offered to let another lady go ahead of her. That lady, in turn, gave her a 40% off coupon for that special item she had wanted -- and now she could get it. She had experienced in a small way, as Joel and I had the previous day, the favor of God.

I know God's ultimate FAVOR was sending Jesus to redeem mankind from our sins. But sometimes it's those little "favors" in life that He does for us that makes what Jesus did for us so much more "real".

"Blessed is the man who listens to me, Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoever finds me finds life, And obtains favor from the Lord..." Proverbs 8:34-35

TEACHING INTO AN ENCOUNTER part 2

Continuing on in this book by Bill Johnson called "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH", I wanted to just say a little bit more about chapter 8. It is so rich with God's practical truths.

"... the culture," says Bill Johnson, "which values ideas above experience, has shaped most of our Bible schools, seminaries, and denominations. Many present day movements have made a virtue out of staying the course without a God experience... To make matters worse, those who speak subjectively of an experience are often considered suspect, and even dangerous. But God cannot be known apart from experience... He is a person, not a philosophy or a concept."

HOW TRUE! It seems like God is using "Internship" more these days than "Bible school" per se. With an internship you get some bible teaching, but a lot of hands on experience. I went to college for 6 years to get my Masters degree. I received very little hands on during that time. When I finished, I could "compose", orchestrate, transcribe, transpose, conduct, play instruments, etc., etc., but what good was it without the practicality of "getting a job"!

[By the way, Love Aflame! Worldwide is starting an intern program in the fall of 2006. If you're interested you can look into it at www.loveaflame.net]

The Holy Spirit is a person. We need to work on our relationship with Him. Just as in a marriage, "relationship" doesn't just happen -- I must take time for my wife or our relationship will not grow and will probably even eventually die.

If I only work, work, work and never take time to be with her -- to talk with her -- to listen to her heart -- to be intimate, we will slowly drift apart. If we don't "experience" each other I could write her all the letters she could handle, and fill a room with books about my love for her, but she will never know the reality of an experience with me... a live person, her husband.

So it is with the Holy Spirit. He is alive! The Bible is written about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, but, if we never have an experience with the Living God we will only know the God of the book. The God who was, but not the One who is and is to come.

"God is bigger than His book," Pastor Johnson says. "The Bible is the absolute Word of God. It reveals God; the obvious, the unexplainable, the mysterious, and sometimes offensive. It all reveals the greatness of our God. Yet it does not contain Him."

Oh Holy Spirit... teach us not to try to control you. Can we control the wind? Help us Lord. Your church is in need of You Jesus, and sometimes we don't even realize what that means.

Next time I will write a little about chapter 9, "The Works of the Father".

I would highly recommend this book. I believe this book will impact your life. You can find "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" for a 21% discount in our bookstore at www.loveandfire.net (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

REVIVAL IS ON OUR LIPS

Revival has been a word on our lips all year long. We can see it in the distance but the road we're on to get there is slow traveling. It began with a real hunger for Jesus and His presence in our lives and that has led us to repentance as individuals and corporately. As more people get hungry and desperate they realize the need for repentance.

As a Body, we are about to step into restoration, some are already there. After restoration revival will come if we can keep looking on Jesus and not the world. If we can stay desperate, hungry, and dependant on the Holy Spirit He will send revival.

Revival will be followed by reaping. This is God's progession that can be seen in the book of Joel. I have been sharing it with the Prophetic Worship class I've been teaching for the past few weeks and I believe the revelation of it is becoming clearer.

As we are beginning to enter into the restoration phase of revival the Holy Spirit led me to this book called "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH". It is subtitled "A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles" by Bill Johnson. I believe the information in this book is one of our next steps on the road to revival. I would encourage each one of us to get a copy of this book and listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying through it, and then... act on it. Make it a part of your "normal" Christian life... a life of miracles!

If you don't have a copy of this book you should get one. I believe this book will impact your life. You can find "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" for a 21% discount in our bookstore at www.loveandfire.net (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

TEACHING INTO AN ENCOUNTER part 1

"Any revelation from God's Word that does not lead us to an encounter with God only serves to make us more religious. The Church cannot afford 'form without power,' for it creates Christians without purpose."

Those two sentences, written by the author of "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH", Bill Johnson, could rock our world (for the better) if we allow the truth in them to penetrate our hearts. As I read this book with my family and take these truths into my heart and then begin to act on them, I am experiencing the awesome living God -- a God who is not about words only, but about power.

Jesus said in John 14:11, "Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. If not, believe because of the things I do." He was basically saying that if you don't believe His words then watch what He does. If teaching does not lead to demonstrations of power then of what use is it!

Bill Johnson says in chapter 8, "Bible teachers are to instruct in order to explain what they just did, or are about to do. Those who restrict themselves to mere words limit their gift, and may unintentionally lead believers to pride by increasing knowledge without an increased awareness of God's presence and power... There comes a time when simply knowing truth will no longer satisfy. If it does not change circumstances for good, what good is it?... Teaching MUST be followed with action that makes room for God to move."

As I have been teaching Prophetic Worship at our church over the past few weeks, I have been asking God to make it real -- to demonstrate what I am teaching... He has been faithful and we have seen His power as we have looked to Him! I have told the Holy Spirit I do not want to teach anything unless His power is there to demonstrate what I am teaching from His Word. I would rather keep my lips closed than just babble on with some teaching that does not have the life of the Spirit. I don't want to continue on with worship in "Moses' Tabernacle" when the Ark of the Covenant has moved to "David's Tabernacle".

Holy Spirit lead me in Your ways. When I teach, help me to follow You and leave room for Your power to be demonstrated -- for "the kingdom of God is not in word but in power".

There's more I want to share on this chapter tomorrow.

If you don't have a copy of this book you should get one. I believe this book will impact your life. You can find "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" for a 21% discount in our bookstore at www.loveandfire.net (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

THE ANOINTING AND THE ANTICHRIST SPIRIT part 3

"Jesus made a frightening statement regarding those who hold to Bible study vs. experience, 'You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of me'." Author of "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH", Bill Johnson.

As Shirley, Joel, and I have been reading this book together it has been confirming what the Holy Spirit has been speaking to us lately. Study the Bible? Yes! But if that study doesn't lead to an encounter with God (a deeper relationship), it will only lead to religious pride with no power to do the works of Jesus.

Bill Johnson states in chapter 7, under the section "How do you picture 'balance'?", "Jesus did not say, 'My sheep will know my book.' It is His voice that we are to know. Why the distinction? Because anyone can know the Bible as a book -- the devil himself knows and quotes the Scriptures. But only those whose lives are dependent on the person of the Holy Spirit will consistently recognize His voice."

Yes, the Bible is the precious Word of God, but it is the Holy Spirit's voice that gives impact to what is printed. We can't settle for anything less than knowing the God of the Bible by experience. Isn't that how every other "giant" of the faith knew God? He wasn't a God to them who was only between the pages of the Bible... but He was living and breathing in them -- more than just words on a page that give nice feelings! Help me to know You more Jesus. Come breathe on me Holy Spirit and let me experience Your life and power in me. Not for my sake only, but for the sake of Your glory in the earth, O Most High!!

If you don't have a copy of this book you should get one. I believe this book will impact your life. You can find "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" for a 21% discount in our bookstore at www.loveandfire.net (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

THE ANOINTING AND THE ANTICHRIST SPIRIT part 2

A few days ago I was talking about chapter 7 in the book "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH". I want to share a few more of my thoughts on that inspired chapter, but first, let me recommend this book to you. It is full of the "Kingdom of God" message that Jesus preached and how we can do the works Jesus did. My life and my family is being impacted as we attempt to walk out some of these principles. I believe yours would be impacted as well. You can find it for a 21% discount in our bookstore at www.loveandfire.net (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

The author, Bill Johnson, in the section called "The Realm Beyond Reason" states, "The realm beyond reason is the world of obedience to God. Obedience is the expression of faith, and faith is our claim ticket to the God realm."

The Holy Spirit has been stressing obedience to us for the past 6 months. We are seeing that obedience is the key to so much of God's Kingdom. It's not a "new" message, but one that we were being lax in. If we really want "as in heaven so on earth", we must obey! We must follow the Holy Spirit's lead in our lives. What Bill said is so true, when we obey it shows God our faith in Him, and we know faith can move mountains -- faith in God can heal the sick and rase the dead just as Jesus did... but it starts with our obedience!

Pastor Johnson goes on to say in this section, "For most churches, very little of what we do is dependent upon the Holy Spirit. If He were not to show up, most churches would never miss Him... We plan our services and call it diligence. We plan our year, and call it vision. I'll never forget the Sunday that the Lord informed me that it wasn't my service, and I couldn't do as I pleased."

How can we expect the Holy Spirit to move in our services when we don't even give Him any room? God, help Your Church to open up to Your Presence and to flow with Your Holy Spirit -- that's where THE Life is.

As I have been drawing closer to His Spirit this year a major thing has been happening in my life. My heart has been burning with desire to be with the Holy Spirit more than I ever remember before in my life. When I pray I want to listen to what he has to say more than just keep blabbing on and on about this situation or that. It's a "deep calling unto deep" time for me. God's presence is changing me -- the presence of the living God!

Pleasing God is all that matters -- pleasing man is no longer on my agenda. I know if I am truly pleasing God, loving and helping my fellow man in a God-way will fall into place. What it boils down to is seeking the Kingdom of God first and obeying His voice! Lord, lead me on in my faith walk -- keep me in the flow of your Holy Spirit... Keep me red-hot for You Jesus, my King!

CSB FATHER/SON WEEKEND

This past weekend Joel and I were able to go (with 15 other dads and sons from our church) to Camp Hickory Hill for our annual fall campout. We joined with about 170 others from churches in western New York for a great time in the outdoors.

This year we were in for a real treat. The main speaker was a very talented juggler. Not only was he exceptional at his art/craft, but he had a good message throughout as he entertained. He absolutely had the boys (and us dads) attention throughout our weekend.

His message of "keep looking up" (because that's what you have to do when juggling) rang true as we related it to keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus.

Another message he had was about the "little" things in our lives that take up so much room that we don't have a place for the "big" things that really matter. This he demonstrated with big rocks and sand -- and it hit home for me.

This guys name is Nels Cremean and he has a website at www.injest.com. There's a 2 minute video that will give you an idea of his talents and his connection with the kids was intense. I would say he truly captivated Joel and the other boys.

The rest of the time at the camp with Joel was tremendous. From starting a campfire to shooting on the rifle range; from attacking the "fort" to sleeping in the cabin with the bunk beds; from good food to good friends, and even getting dad to join in on a rousing game of Battleball -- we truly cherished our time together.

By the time we got home I was physically wiped out. That was due in part to the "endless" Battleball game, but also due to Joel and his friends staying awake in the cabin and talking until 4 A.M.... but isn't that part of the fun of such a father/son adventure? I think so. So I tolerated it and ended up with only 2 hours of sleep that night. But sleep I can always catch up on later... this moment was between a father and a son -- and time was not a factor!!

I thought about Jesus getting up in the early early morning hours to meet with His Father. It must've been sheer joy -- a pleasure because it was His Father. And I thought about how the Father must feel when I, His son, miss some of our "meeting" times. I thought about what I would have felt like had Joel missed our meeting times at the camp...

Draw me close to You

Never let me go

I lay it all down again

to hear You say that I'm Your friend

You are my desire

No one else will do

cause no one else could take Your place

to feel the warmth of Your embrace...

O Father... Draw me close...

The Joy is Never Ending!!

Check below for some new photos just in (hot out of the oven). :)


A baby girl is born to our niece and her husband, Camille and Dion Halkides.

Maleah Elizabeth Halkides

Born: October 10, 2005 12:33 pm
Weight: 7 pounds 10 ounces
Length: 20 inches

CLICK HERE to leave a message for Dion and Cami.


A note to Dion & Camille,
If you only knew how overjoyed we are at the birth of Maleah -- a daughter of Zion!! Her beauty is unique and clearly seen; the pleasure and joy she will bring to you will be well worth the many years of waiting for God to bring this marvelous creation to birth!!!! We wanted to be there so much -- We're praying to see her soon (and you two also).

Joel is so excited at the birth of his new cousin Maleah. He says he's ready for a California visit! We Love you!
Uncle Joe, Aunt Shirley, & Joel


"I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well." Psalm 139:14

RISKY OBEDIENCE

Last night I had an opportunity for some "risky obedience". It was "The Altar" night and the youth had already began praying fervantly, crying out to see God. I was in my office at the sanctuary preparing to go to the prayer time.

A young man by the name of Jason and his girlfriend came in to my office. He described to me how he had dislocated his shoulder. It was very painful from time to time. He had it in a sling. He had not been able to work since his arm got messed up. Then he explained to me how we were his last resort for helping him to get some money so he could buy two perscriptions he needed for the pain until he could have surgery. I believed him to be sincere, but the church at the moment is in tough times financially speaking, so there were no funds to draw on.

I did tell him that I could do something though, if he was willing. I told him what Peter said to the man who needed to be healed, "Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have I give to you". And then how Peter prayed and the man was healed. Then I told Him I could pray for him to be healed. He said that would be fine. I asked him if he knew Jesus as Lord and he said he was saved.

A few of our prayer warriors joined in with me. We prayed into heaven for Jason that night with faith, believing that he would walk out of the church completly healed. It was "risky obedience" because I could've just said, "Sorry Jason, no money here -- goodbye, I'll pray for you sometime". But I didn't. Thank God I took the risk of going out on a limb and prayed a bold prayer... and faith began growing in me even as I prayed.

There are no dislocated shoulders in heaven -- no pain. And I was believing for an "as in heaven, so on earth" experience. Unfortunatly, it was not to be, at least not immediate. Jason (as far as I know) did not receive his healing before He left -- but that will not stop me from praying and believing for healing at my next opportunity -- I am going to keep doing "Risky Obedience" for my King, Jesus, until He returns!! Won't you join me?

"My Heart Burns for You"

LOVE & FIRE LIVE WORSHIP CD RELEASED

Love and Fire Ministries releases their first live CD. Recorded at The Love Church, in Horseheads, NY, during a very special time of God's Spirit moving corporately on His people in a powerful way.

Titled "My Heart Burns for You", this worship experience speaks of an intense longing to be with Jesus -- a burning desire deep within that will not let go.

"Love is as strong as death... It burns like blazing fire,
like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love;
rivers cannot wash it away." Song of Songs 8:6-7

The sound is raw on this CD, but the worship is passionate! So if you're looking for production perfection you won't find it here. But if you're longing for a rendezvous with the Holy Spirit, you will find it on "My Heart Burns for You". Take time to get alone when listening to the new Love and Fire Worship CD, just you and His Spirit, and let Him draw your heart into His burning fire!

LOVE & FIRE WORSHIP

Live at The Love Church

Worship Leader -- Joe Cuda

and

The Love Church Worship Team

NOW AVAILABLE
$13.00

TO ORDER CLICK HERE

THE ANOINTING AND THE ANTICHRIST SPIRIT part 1

Tonight I was teaching a class on "Prophetic Worship" at The Love Church. The topic was the restoration of David's Tabernacle. I spent quite a bit of time speaking about the anointings of David, Jesus, and us and the importance of knowing that the same anointing that was on Jesus is now on His Body -- US, His Church! It is crucial to get a revelation of this truth to be able to walk out this Kingdom life.

When I opened up the book tonight to begin reading it during our family reading time, I saw the title for the chapter was about the anointing. I was excited to hear what insight Bill Johnson might have into this subject -- I was not dissapointed when our reading time was over.

"WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" has been a treasure of revelation since we began it a couple of weeks ago. I would highly recommend it to all. You can find it for a 21% discount in our bookstore at www.loveandfire.net (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

As we read chapter 7 tonight, I could hear the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking clearly to me through it. So many thoughts that it will probably take the next few blogs to just scratch the surface of what I am receiving from this chapter.

"The nature of the antichrist spirit is found in its name: anti, 'against'; Christ, 'Anointed One'." That spirit is working against the Holy Spirit's anointing in the Church to take dominion over the works of darkness. John didn't talk about the "Anti-Jesus" spirit but he mentioned the "Anti-Christ" spirit. It is a spirit that is against the anointing.

Bill Johnson says, "The spirit of the antichrist is at work today, attempting to influence believers to reject everything that has to do with the Holy Spirit's anointing. This rejection takes on many religious forms, but basically it boils down to this: we reject what we can't control."

And the fact is... the Holy Spirit is like the wind -- He is not controllable (He just leaves if control is evident). He is not predictable (which makes it difficult for those who like to "extreme" plan).

I can't help but think of Benny Hinn who relates to and speaks of the Holy Spirit a lot. He is probably attacked by the "church" more than anybody else I can think of. Why? Because he moves in the anointing that breaks yokes, the anointing that antichrist (anti-anointing) spirit hates, the anointing that religion hates.

I'm going to retire for the night now. But tomorrow I want to mention a little more in this chapter dealing with "The realm beyond Reason".

"Religion idolizes concepts and avoids personal experience," the author says. "Being led by the Holy Spirit is an ongoing God encounter... ANYTHING that will take the place of dependence upon the Holy Spirit and His empowering work can be traced back to this spirit of opposition."

Joy, Joy, Joy!!


A baby girl is born to our niece and her husband, Camille and Dion Halkides.

Maleah Elizabeth Halkides


Born: October 10, 2005 12:33 pm
Weight: 7 pounds 10 ounces
Length: 20 inches



A note to Dion & Camille,
If you only knew how overjoyed we are at the birth of Maleah -- a daughter of Zion!! Her beauty is unique and clearly seen; the pleasure and joy she will bring to you will be well worth the many years of waiting for God to bring this marvelous creation to birth!!!! We wanted to be there so much -- We're praying to see her soon (and you two also). We Love you! Uncle Joe, Aunt Shirley, & Joel

CLICK HERE to leave a message for Dion and Cami.


"I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well." Psalm 139:14

REPENT TO SEE

Chapter 3, "Repent to See", from the book "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" is where I am right now and where our church body is right now. Since June the Holy Spirit has been speaking this strongly to us and He has been moving powerfully in our midst as we have been obedient to His call.

I have been reading this book with my family. The subtitle is "A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles" and it is written by Bill Johnson. I believe the Holy Spirit brought it to my attention and there is something He has for me, my family, and the families of our church in it. It has been a treasure of revelation since we began it last week. You can find it for a 21% discount in our bookstore at http://www.loveandfire.net/ (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

Chapter 3 opens up with, "Most Christians repent enough to be forgiven, but not enough to see the Kingdom." The author goes on to say, "Repentance means you change your way of thinking... This is not just a heavenly mandate to have happy thoughts. Obeying this command is possible only for those who surrender to the grace of God. The renewed mind is the result of a surrendered heart."

I have been in a time of surrendering things to God and He has been renewing my mind about many areas in my life. He has been changing me as I have been surrendering. The cry of my heart has been "ALL OF ME FOR ALL OF YOU" -- and as I surrender areas of my heart to Him He gives me more of Himself to replace those areas with. It has definitely been a great exchange. I don't want to go back to the old Joe. I was living my life for Jesus (I thought) but there is a new definition for what "I live for You" means.

Repent and see His Kingdom realized in Spirit and in Truth!

TODAY IS A VERY SPECIAL DAY
by Joe Cuda

On October 9, 1987 I met the love of my life. That was 18 years ago today!

It seems like such a short time ago. There I was sitting in the Officers Club in Gelnhausen, West Germany when she walked into the room. This was the first time I had ever seen her before and I immediately knew she was the one I wanted to marry.

We were introduced by a mutual friend as she joined us at the table. What a lovely name, Shirley, it was as if I was in a dream -- or even like floating on a cloud. What a wonderful evening we had after dinner strolling through the coblestone streets of this beautiful old German town. We shared about each others family background and discovered we were both born the fourth child of five children, and we were both raised in Pentecostal churches.

We Met in Gelnhausen, W. Germany

I knew my God-given destiny was wrapped up in this beautiful little lady. We were married the following year and have served Jesus together every day since. She has been a faithful wife, lover, and friend -- the desire of my heart.

In 1993 He blessed us with the best son a father and mother could have ever desired. We named him Joel because He is a "Declarer of God" and God is using him in a mighty way for His Kingdom work! And to think it all began with just one look -- that's all it took and I was hooked on this day 18 years ago. Thank you Jesus!

So when all is said and done my love -- come away with me my fair one... come away. I love you Shirley Cuda... with all my heart. You have blessed me more than I could've ever imagined. Thank you for 18 wonderful years.

All My Love,

Joseph

PRAYING HEAVEN DOWN Part 2

"WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" is "A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles" by Bill Johnson. I would highly recommend it. I have been reading it with my family for the past week. It's an easy read, but is greatly challenging our lack of faith (even though we thought we had faith) to believe God for miracles. Faith is beginning to grow in us -- but it is only a start. You can find it for a 21% discount in our bookstore at http://www.loveandfire.net/ (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

Yesterday I was writing about Chapter 5, "Praying Heaven Down". In it, the author talks about Jesus' model prayer. He concludes that the prayer can be broken down into 3 parts:

1. Praise & Worship
2. Praying for Heaven on Earth
a. Heaven's effect on material needs
b. Heaven's effect on personal relationships
c. Heaven's effect on our relationship to evil
3. Praise & Worship

This prayer is truly about the Kingdom of God and when we pray as in His example heaven will invade earth. Even though I have known this basic theology for years, it is beginning to come alive in me. God keep that measure of faith you have put in me growing until it crowds out all unbelief. That's what I want in my life Lord. Sometimes it's easier than others, but my prayer is to have consistent faith in You Jesus, and that I would ride HIGH IN THE HEAVENS with Your Holy Spirit so that I can minister healing & deliverance LOW IN THE EARTH!

I wanted to mention one more thing that leaped out at me on the page as I was reading this chapter with Shirley and Joel: "We often pray in the place of risky obedience". That was a big ouch of conviction from the Holy Spirit for me... but more on that tomorrow if I get time.

PRAYING HEAVEN DOWN Part 1

I've recently been reading a book with my family called "WHEN HEAVEN INVADES EARTH" . It's "A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles" by Bill Johnson. You can find it for a 21% discount in our bookstore at http://www.loveandfire.net/ (then click on the menu item "Music and Bookstore").

I would highly recommend it because most of us live with some unbelief. We can believe Jesus' blood can save us and give us entrance to heaven, but when it comes to healing and things like that... "Well, if it's God's will..." Jesus rebuked the disciples for their unbelief (lack of faith). I know He's rebuked me many times for it -- but inspite of my unbelief at times, I still keep on praying for the miracles and healing power of Jesus Christ to be evident in my life as it was in the life of Christ. But how much more would those prayers be answered if they were given from a heart filled with Faith (the kind of God-Faith that Jesus had while He walked as a man)? I'm not there but I desire to be there -- for the sake of His Kingdom and the life it can bring to people!


We're currently reading Chapter 5, "Praying Heaven Down". The chapter opens with two quotes. The first is from a book by Albert Hibbert about Smith Wigglesworth called The Secret of His Power.
"If you want anything from God, you will have to pray into heaven. That is where it all is. If you live in the earth realm and expect to receive from God, you will never get anything."
It's the "praying into heaven" words that leaped out to me.

The second quote is from John G. Lake's book titled "His Sermons, His Boldness of Faith".
"The Church has been negligent in one thing... she has not prayed the power of God out of heaven."

Whew! Praying "into heaven" and receiving God's power "out of heaven". Show me what that's all about Lord! Infuse me with your power out of heaven. Give me faith Lord -- without wavering so I can be used to bring life.