THE KNOW-IT-ALL TONGUE

The Know-It-All Tongue

A prudent man conceals knowledge.

Proverbs 12:23




Are you so all-knowing that you cannot refrain

from giving unsolicited input? Do you have an

unusually high regard for your opinion? Do you reg-

ularly use the expression, “You should…?” Please

allow me to gently remind you that most emotion-

ally healthy people will resent someone who always

assumes he knows what is best for them. We must

give people the benefit of the doubt in pursuing an

independent course of action. Even if you feel you

have earned the right to speak into someone’s life or

to give unsolicited advice, proceed with caution.

“Have you considered…?” sounds a lot less con-

trolling and will be more welcomed—especially by

men—than “You should…” Married women, take

heed! Real men aren’t looking for Mother. Right

before I got married, one of my spiritual mentors gave me a bit of advice.“We know you’re smart,” she

cautioned,“but don’t know everything. Let your hus-

band know some things sometimes.” I have heeded

this simple wisdom for more than a quarter of a cen-

tury with good results.




Even if you have knowledge and insight into a

certain situation, sometimes it’s prudent to keep

silent and give another the joy and fulfillment of

explaining it to you.“Wise people don’t make a show

of their knowledge” (Proverbs 12:23). Assuming

the role of the arrogant expert on almost every topic

is a sure indication of pride, which is repulsive

behavior to God and man.




How do you let go of that know-it-all tongue?

You can start by letting someone share information

with you that you already know—without letting

him know that you know it. This can be great

training in humility and emotional maturity. Often,

when my husband and I are about to make a large

purchase, such as a car, I chuckle within as the sales-person, usually a male, assumes I know nothing about finances. He proceeds to explain loan terms and other financial aspects of the deal. I go with the flow and watch his astonishment when he finds out that I am a certified public accountant with many years of experience. Of course, my husband stands there fighting the temptation to yell, “She already knows that!” I do it simply for practice in maintaining humility.




Even if you are brilliant but humble, your mere

presence may cause those with low self-esteem to feel inferior. Certainly, then, displaying intellectual

superiority will alienate others. Some people may

look for areas of weakness to “cut you down to size.”

If you tend to be a know-it-all, maybe you need

to do a little honest introspection. Is your display of

knowledge a smoke screen for insecurity? Are you

craving attention or appreciation because you are not getting it from the source you desire? When interacting with a group, you might want to actively listen to others, ask for their ideas, resist correcting or contradicting anybody, and limit your input to only one or two points. Your interpersonal relationships will improve when people feel that interacting with you has been a mutual sharing of ideas.




Today’s Affirmation:

I am prudent and therefore I do not

flaunt my knowledge.

THE CYNICAL TONGUE

The Cynical Tongue

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel

of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners,

nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

Psalm 1:1




Eliab, David’s oldest brother, was a true cynic.

When David went down to the scene of the battle and saw Goliath, the Philistine giant who was intimidating the Israelites, he became indignant. He emphatically and confidently stated that he would personally take care of this “uncircumcised Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:36). Circumcision was a sign of God’s covenant of protection and provision for the Israelites. David knew that this bully had no such covenant with God; only the Israelites could claim such a benefit. David was very secure in the covenant and totally embraced God’s promise. Obviously, this was not so for Eliab.




Now Eliab his oldest brother heard when he

spoke to the men; and Eliab’s anger burned against David and he said, “Why have you

come down? And with whom have you left

those few sheep in the wilderness? I know

your insolence and the wickedness of your

heart; for you have come down in order to

see the battle.” But David said, “What have

I done now?” (1 Samuel 17:28-29).




Eliab, whose name meant “God is my father”

(imagine one with such a name running from the

giant), scorned David’s confidence and his motives;

cynicism had him in its grip.




A person who is cynical scorns the motives of

others. Cynicism is like venom; it poisons the atmo-

sphere wherever it is present. Resorting to it will also

poison your spirit and that of others. Find one cyn-

ical employee, parishioner, or family member, and

pretty soon those with weaker minds are chiming in

and perpetuating the negative conversation. It can

wreak havoc on any relationship and in any envi-

ronment. When I managed a staff of people who

were always under the gun to complete important

deadlines, I tried to reward and de-stress them by

taking the entire staff to lunch from time to time.

Because this required us to close our department for

a couple of hours, attendance was mandatory. There

was one antisocial sourpuss, however, who always put a damper on our outings with her cynical remarks

and overall negative attitude about the company. I

finally started letting her stay at the office while the

rest of us had a good time. I found that distancing

myself from a cynic was my best coping strategy.

As you proceed on your tongue fast, really begin

to observe your comments in various settings and

determine if you are being cynical or scornful. Retire

from cynicism today.




Today’s Affirmation:

I am blessed because I do not walk in

the counsel of the ungodly nor stand

in the way of sinners nor sit in the seat

of the scornful.

MEAT IN DUE SEASON

Matthew chapter 24








Today we are walking in: Meat In Due Season








Job 34:16




If now thou hast understanding, hear H8085 this: hearken to the voice of my words.

























UNDERSTAND







Today we look to the word-UNDERSTAND- H8085 shama`--to hear with attention or interest, listen to understand (language)






















The Torah testifies...............




Genesis 11:7




Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand H8085 one another's speech.






















The prophets proclaim..................




Nehemiah 8:2




And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear H8085 with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month.

























The writings bear witness...........................




1 Kings 3:9




Give therefore thy servant an understanding H8085 heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?



















Meat in Due Season

As Citizens, we are called to serve Meat in due season. But what is this 'meat?' And what is the 'due season' in which this meat is to be given? Let's find out:

Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat<5160> in due season<2540>? (Matthew 24:45)

And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat<4620> in due season<2540>? (Luke 12:42)

Within the above passages, there are abundant clues that give us remarkable prophetic insight, to tell us what this meat is, and what the due season is. We will look at these and several other passages in detail, so that we might have wisdom to give the proper food to the Master's household!

Let us look at Scripture, where the first mention of the phrase "meat in due season" is found. These passages tell us exactly what this meat is, both in a general sense, and in detail. In general, this meat can be seen in the following verses:

These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat<0400> in due season<06256>. (Psalms 104:27)

The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat<0400> in due season<06256>. (Psalms 145:15)

In the above passages, we see immediately that this meat in due season is something that ultimately comes from our Heavenly Father, even though it is distributed by His stewards.

Let us home in on two additional passages that show us some further detail of the meat in due season that brings nourishment:

"...a word spoken in due season, how good is it!" (Proverbs 15:23b)

"...nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine..." (1 Timothy 4:6b)

We see in the above passage in Proverbs, that the due season is related to words that are spoken, telling us that this refers to the spoken words of The Most High. From other studies, we recall that the all the words of The Most High, including those spoken from Mt. Sinai, were spoken and written by the Word of The Most High — who is none other than Messiah, who accompanied the Israelites in the wilderness (1Cor 10:4).

We then see further confirmation in the 1 Timothy passage above, that our nourishment comes from "the words of Faith and of good teaching" — from The Most High's Word, the Holy Scriptures.

So we see that it is The Most High who gives us His words, which become our meat as we feed upon His Word. We then become "DO-ers" of His word, as we walk in obedience to His words.

If we are to be nourished by His Word, and thereby grow strong, we must first receive "good teaching," and then walk in "obedience to His Word, just as if it were True" (this is the Biblical definition of "Faith"). The teaching [and doing] of The Most High's Word is the meat that The Most High's people need. This is the general description of what the good Stewards are to feed the Master's household.

With that in mind, let us now look at some further details of what this 'meat' consists of.

Meat to Her Household

There is a beautiful description in Proverbs 31, where many activities of the Bride can be seen as a parable. In this example of the Bride, we see that one of these activities of the Bride is seen as serving meat to her household and a portion to her maidens:

She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat<02964> to her household, and a portion<02706> to her maidens<05291>. (Proverbs 31:15)

In the above passage, the Hebrew word for 'meat' is Strong's number <02964>, occurring 23 times. This word comes from <02963>, occurring 25 times, and means "ravening" or "prey." The number "25" alerts us to the idea that this word is related to the Bride characteristic of "5," as seen in 5 x 5.

This word <02963> and its definition of "ravening" brings us directly to the covenant promise of Benjamin, who is one prophetic picture of the Bride. One of Benjamin's blessings (Gen 49:27) is that he shall ravin<02963> just as a wolf does, on the prey (Lit. "things of eternity"). We can not go into much detail on Benjamin at this time. We can only say that the Bride characteristic of ravening can be seen in the life of the wolf. She will gorge herself with food, and will carry the partly-digested (prepared) food back to her household where she will regurgitate, and "divide the spoil," or distribute the portions to her young cubs at night.

This activity perfectly describes the Bride, and the feeding of her household!

So we see the meat distributed to her household is nourishing meat indeed, for it is what the Bride has been feeding upon — the Word of The Most High, the words of Faith, and all the teachings that build up and prepare the Bride. From this example, we can see one detail of what this meat is. It is simply the revealing of the Bridegroom's characteristics in Scripture, as examples for the household to follow — which become the same characteristics to which the Bride strives to attain.

But if the household is given meat, what is to be given to the maidens? Let's look at this.

A Portion to Her Maidens

In the above passage in Proverbs, the 'portion given to her maidens' tells us much also. The word for 'portion' is the Hebrew word 'choq'<02706>, which occurs 127 times. The Hebrew word actually means "statute, ordinance, or commandments," and comes from the word <02710> meaning to "engrave or inscribe."

Thus the word translated here as 'portion' implies a foundational, New Covenant issue — of inscribing The Most High's Laws and Commandments on the heart. The Bride gives the maidens the 'portion' of the pure Word of The Most High — the teaching of His Laws ("Torah"), and His Commandments, Ordinances, and Precepts. For these are a part of the New Covenant provisions to be given to them, as summarised in Jeremiah 31:31-33! The hope is, that after these maidens are brought into the "bond(age)" of the Marriage [New] Covenant (Eze 20:37), they will desire to become a part of the Bride Company.

But why are the foundational issues — of inscribing of The Most High's Law and Commandments on the heart — given to these maidens as their portion? Notice in the Proverbs passage, the Hebrew word for 'maiden' is <05291>, which comes from <05288>, meaning "young, youthful, a babe." The corresponding attribute in the New Testament writings (1Cor 3:1) is the word 'carnal,' which tells us that these 'maidens' are carnal 'Believers' who previously have not been subject to the Law [Torah] of The Most High (Rom 8:7), perhaps due to faulty teaching. Thus the maidens' portion consisted of the teaching of Father's Laws [His 'Torah' — His instruction], and His Commandments, Ordinances, and Precepts, as the foundational first principles of the Oracles of The Most High.

As an incentive to the maidens to become a part of the Bride Company, The Most High reveals the maidens in Scripture, in relation to the Bride. Notice the following passage:

She (the Bride) shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins<01330> [virgins; maidens] her companions that follow<0310> her [come after; afterwards] [from <0309> "tarry; delay; hesitate; remain behind"] shall be brought unto thee. (Psalms 45:14)

This verse, along with the meanings of the Hebrew words, reveals a sad characteristic of the 'maidens.' The maidens are among those who do come to the King's palace, but only afterwards, following behind the Bride. These maidens are, from the word definitions, those who delayed, hesitated, or remained behind. We have previously seen in other articles that the Bride-Candidates who are left behind are those who, for one reason or another, were not walking in obedience to the Law [Torah] when the Bridegroom came. As a result, the maidens forfeited their position as part of the Bride-Company.




So we see that the 'portion' given to the Maidens is the New Covenant understanding of walking in the Statutes, Ordinances, and Commandments of The Most High, that Yahushua desires to engrave or inscribe on the heart, as one of the New Covenant provisions (Jer 31:31-33).

Let us now look at the 'meat' and the 'portion' as one of the defining New Covenant issues that Yahushua desires to inscribe on the heart.

New Covenant Issues

There is one description of the 'meat' we must point out, as seen in the following passages:

He hath given meat<02964> unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant. (Psalms 111:5)

For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. (John 6:55)

And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This [Passover bread] is my body which is given for you: this do [keep the Passover] in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after [Passover] supper, saying, This [Passover] cup is the new testament [New Covenant] in my blood, which is shed for you. (Luke 22:19-20)

Here we see in the Psalms passage that the 'meat' is related to The Most High's Covenant. We then see in the above John and Luke passages, that The Most High's Everlasting Covenant has been Renewed for His People, and has been sealed by His Blood (Hebrews 13:20). This is a very important Covenant issue. Let's see what takes place when we participate in the Passover meal.




According to The Most High's Covenant, Blood of the sacrifice is to be sprinkled on two places — on the Mercy Seat (Lev 16:14-15), and on the people (Exodus 24:8). Today, this Blood of the Covenant is to be sprinkled upon us, His people, as we participate in His Passover — when we eat the Passover Bread, and drink the Passover cup. Yahushua tells us this is "meat indeed" and "drink indeed" (John 6:55).

Under the New ("Renewed") Covenant, the Blood of Yahushua Messiah is sprinkled on His people, in a way that meets both requirements — for we are "the people" and we also have "the mercy seat" of the Ark of the Covenant within us — where the Tables of His Word reside — for His Torah is being written on the Tables of our heart. This is the place where The Most High now resides, by His Holy Spirit, because Yahushua's Blood has initially cleansed us from within, when we were 'Born-Again.'

Only in this way, by drinking that which represents the 'Blood' of the Covenant — can His Blood be sprinkled on our inward parts. Only in this way, by participating in the Blood and Body of the Passover Lamb, can we continue to have His Life abide [remain] in us (John 6:53; John 15:10; 1 John 2:6; 2 John 1:9). Surely everyone who has been Born-Again has Yahushua living within, and therefore Yahushua Himself becomes our Life. But Yahushua tells us that the Body and Blood of the Passover Lamb is a spiritual nourishment ("meat indeed" and "drink indeed") that is necessary for our continued growth, and for our obedience, and for the required testimony that "Yahushua-in-you" desires to become.




The combined passages tell us that the 'meat' includes the teachings regarding the Renewed Covenant, and the ability He provides by His Grace, to participate and to walk in His Covenant.

Who is to Receive the Meat?

Last of all, let us look to see who the 'meat' is to be given to. We saw previously that the 'portion' was to be given to the Maidens. Let us now look again at the above Psalms passage, to note what Scripture tells us further about the recipients of the meat:

He hath given meat unto them that fear him... (Psalms 111:5)

Here we notice that meat is to be given to those who FEAR The Most High. We do not want to waste our efforts trying to feed those who would forsake and scorn Yah's Word, so it will help us to understand the characteristics of those to whom meat is to be given — those who Fear The Most High. Let's look further:

O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever! (Deuteronomy 5:29)

That thou mightest fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged. (Deuteronomy 6:2)

Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him. (Deuteronomy 8:6)

Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. (Psalms 112:1)

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. (Acts 9:31)

So we see that those who fear The Most High are those who keep His statutes, and delight in, and keep, His commandments! The main characteristic of the Fear of The Most High is the keeping of His Commandments, by His Grace, by His ability He gives us from within, as he dwells within us. Let us notice why the Fear of The Most High is very important:

Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. (Acts 10:34-35)

Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent. Acts 13:26

"...his salvation is nigh them that fear him...." (Psalms 85:9a)

So we see that Salvation is for those who FEAR The Most High! The Fear of The Most High is a fundamental Bible principle! For those who acquire this most essential quality, The Most High gladly gives of His "meat," that those who fear Him may be nourished, growing up in Him, and "increase with the increase of The Most High" (Colossians 2:19).




We will now see what Scripture reveals about the 'due season' for feeding the meat.

What is the Due Season?

Just as important as feeding the right meal, so is the timing of the feeding. In the above passages, we have seen that the phrase 'due season' seen in Matthew and Luke is the Greek word <2540>, meaning "time, season, opportunity; the opportune or right time." So we see that there is an appropriate or proper time for each "course" of the meat that is to be fed to the household. But let's look a little further.

The phrase 'due season' seen in the Psalms passages is the Hebrew word <06256>, meaning "time or season;" but this word comes from the Hebrew word <05703>, meaning "everlasting; evermore, eternally, perpetually; forever." This word, however, comes from the Hebrew word <05710>, meaning "deck; adorn; pass on, advance."

Combining these meanings, we see that the 'due season' is both a description of proper timing, as well as a the result of its application. We thus may say that the 'due season' is the proper timing that will provide the "decking or adorning of the Bride with the eternal qualities of the Word, that will allow her to advance, and to pass on into the eternal Kingdom, as a Bride appropriate for her King."




Let's look at one additional meaning.

The Seasons Seen in The Most High's Festivals

There is another level of truth to be seen in the Due Season. In the early days of Israel, there were few Torah scrolls except in the temples. Only the wealthy and the kings could afford to own these Torah Scrolls, since they required much time and resources to produce. Most households did not have the scrolls, yet all the people were required to learn the Word of The Most High, and to walk in it. How did they do this, since they had no Torah scrolls, and no Bibles?

All the males were required to go up three times each year to worship The Most High during the days of The Most High's moedim, His seasonal Festivals, where they would hear the Torah being taught. After each Festival was over, the men would then return to their families, and teach them all that they had learned. In this way, whole families would learn the Word of The Most High, even though they had no Bibles or Torah scrolls in their homes. It was in this way that they learned to walk in His ways.




The 'due season' for Israel is seen to be the short time during the Feast Days the men had available to hear the Scriptures read to them, and to learn of The Most High's ways. Thus the due season is seen in The Most High's moedim, or appointed times, the short times The Most High gives to His people in order to learn His ways, by their participation in The Most High's Festivals.




We too have a 'due season' or short time in which to learn. Let us likewise keep The Most High's Feasts, His seasonal Festivals, and practice all The Most High's truths, that we too might learn to walk in The Most High's ways!




Now let us look for further agreement of Scripture in the definitions we have found thus far. We will look briefly at the hidden number patterns placed within Scripture, numbers that serve to authenticate both the message, and the Author of the message.

What do the Numbers Tell Us?

In this short section, we will look at a few of the prophetic numbers found in the above passages of Scripture, that authenticate the message of what we have discovered thus far in the words and definitions. For those not inclined to the prophetic numbers hidden in Scripture, you may skip to the next heading.




In both of the Psalms passages, the word meat is the Hebrew word for food, 'okel,' Strong's number <0400>, occurring 44 times; which word stems from the Hebrew word <0398>, which occurs 810 times. The prophetic meanings of these numbers in Scripture is this:

The number "44" speaks of a set-apart ("holy") life and walk. The number "810" speaks of the "8" and "10" together, which refers us to the foundation stones of "8 and 10 cubits" (1ki 7:10). These stones speak of the Foundations of the Faith, in doctrinal principles (Heb 6:1-2, revealing the basics of "Torah") and the Foundations of Wisdom; and of the Commandments of The Most High and the Testimony of Yahushua that allow one to "overcome," and to enter the New Jerusalem (Rev 14:12, 22:14); and of the "doing" of the Words of Yahushua (Matt 7:24; Luke 6:48). We might say that the "810" results in the "44." The result is a Holy (set-apart = "44") life and walk.




This 'meat' is the teaching of the Foundation principles, including the Words of "Torah" given by Yahushua to Moses; and the Wisdom Principles of being a "do-er" of the Word, and of the set-apart qualities of the Bride.

In the Matthew 24:45 passage, the Greek word <5160> occurs 16 times, and stems from the word <5142> which occurs 8 times. The prophetic meanings of these numbers in Scripture is this:

The number "8" speaks of Yahushua, the Bridegroom. The number "16" speaks of Betrothal and the Marriage Covenant. We might say that the "8" results in the "16." That is, Yahushua (the "8" - as we allow Him to live in us) results in our participation of the Marriage Covenant (the "16").




This 'meat' is the teaching of Yahushua Messiah-in-You: Who is Yahushua, the Bridegroom (Colossians 1:27; Galatians 4:19); and the teaching of the Marriage Covenant [New or Renewed Covenant] issues.

In the Luke 12:42 passage, the Greek word <4620> occurs only 1 time, and stems from the word <4621> which occurs 14 times, which in turn stems from the word <3358> occurring 13 times. The prophetic meanings of these numbers in Scripture is this:

The number "14" speaks of Salvation. The number "13" speaks of Love, and of preparation of Love, and perfecting of Love. The number "1" speaks of unity, and of uniqueness or singleness of quality or number. We might say from these that Salvation ("14") and Preparation/Perfecting of Love ("13") results in the Dove (So 6:9), the undefiled who is but one; who is the Only one of her mother, and the choice one of her that bare her (the "1").




This 'meat' is the teaching of the essentials of Salvation, of both aspects — of coming out by the Blood, and entering in by obedience to Torah; the Preparation of the Bride, and the perfecting of Love in the Bride; and The Only One of Her Mother: the Scriptural Characteristics of the Bride.

In each of the passages we have seen, the hidden, prophetic numbers within the Scriptures attest to the meaning of the words within the message. Let us now summarise what we have seen.

Conclusion

From the above prophetic views of Scripture, we have seen that the 'meat in due season' consists of all the spoken words of The Most High, as spoken through the Word of The Most High, who is Yahushua Messiah. We have also seen that this meat consists of a variety of subjects to be received, and acted upon, and which are to be taught, or fed, to the Master's little Flock.




This Meat in Due Season may be summarised as follows:

The Meat in Due Season: A Summary

1 The 'meat' of Foundational teachings: The Words of "Torah" given by Yahushua to Moses; and the Foundational teachings of the Renewed Covenant, as seen in Hebrews 6:1-2; the set-apart life and walk;

2 The 'meat' of Who Yahushua, the Bridegroom, really is;

3 The 'meat' of the teaching of the Marriage Covenant [New or Renewed Covenant] issues;

4 The 'meat' of Messiah-in-you (Colossians 1:27; Galatians 4:19);

5 The 'meat' of The Essentials of Salvation, of both coming out by the Blood, and entering in by obedience;

6 The 'meat' of Preparation of the Bride: the perfecting of Love;

7 The 'meat' of Characteristics of the Bride, which are identical to the characteristics of the Bridegroom.




If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Yahushua HaMachiach,

nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. (1 Timothy 4:6).

THE BELITTLING TONGUE

The Belittling Tongue

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out

of your mouths, but only what is helpful for

building others up according to their needs,

that it may benefit those who listen.

Ephesians 4:29




Do people feel better about themselves after

spending time with you? Or are your expectations

so high that you focus on their shortcomings rather

than their assets? If someone speaks well of a person you envy, do you follow up with a disparaging

remark? Are you so insecure that you can only feel

good about yourself by denigrating others? “There-

fore encourage one another and build up one

another, just as you also are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).




When we had a room expanded at our home, I

was fascinated by the use of the hammer. It was used in the demolition as well as the construction process.




Words are like that. They can tear down or they can

build. How do you use your words mostly? Is it your

normal behavior to build?

During your tongue fast, conquer belittling by

acting as if you are a cheerleader and a coach to your

family members, employees, coworkers, and others

in your sphere of interaction. Cheerleaders tell you

that you can do it; coaches tell you how to reach the

goal. They all have the same goal: They want you to

win!

Now, I know from experience that if you tend to

be one of those hard-driving, goal-oriented people,

coaching may be a challenge initially. Perhaps you

are from the school of thought that believes an

employee’s paycheck is encouragement enough—

especially if he is more than adequately compensated.

Beware! Thou art stuck in the stone ages and in dire

need of a mindset change. If you want to maximize

productivity, then learn how to build up your

employees. I have found that it is not my natural

inclination to want to coach poor performers; I just

want them out. In with the new superstars! What I

have learned is that a little positive affirmation, some

hand-holding, and lots of communication will

often yield the productivity and the loyalty that may

not accompany the cocky superstar.




Make it a habit to affirm your family members

and friends. Tell your wife she is the only woman for

you, express your appreciation for your husband’s

sense of responsibility, applaud your teenager for

avoiding drugs and alcohol, thank a friend for

keeping your secrets! Resist the temptation to con-

stantly “fix” something about them. Accept them as

they are and remember that you only have them for

a season.




Today’s Affirmation:

No unwholesome talk comes out of

my mouth, but only what is helpful for

building others up according to their

needs, that it may benefit those who



listen.

THE BETRAYING TONGUE

The Betraying Tongue

A gossip betrays a confidence,

but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.

Proverbs 11:13







Betrayal is a more blatant act than gossip. A

gossip may not necessarily harbor any ill will toward

his victim; however, a betrayer divulges information

in breach of a confidence. He gives information to

the “enemy” and commits relational treason by vio-

lating the trust someone has placed in him. This

ungodly use of the tongue is designed to hurt or dis-

advantage.

Judas was able to betray Yahusha with very little

effort because he was familiar with His comings and

goings.

Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the

place, because Yahusha had often met there with

his disciples (John 18:2).




Judas used his inside knowledge of Yahusha’ habits

to hurt Him. Later, his betrayal caused Judas such

self-loathing that he committed suicide. Such an act

must surely eat away at one’s self-esteem and sense

of dignity. Have you ever betrayed someone’s con-

fidence? Be honest. Why did you do it? What was

your payoff? Did you gain some advantage because

of it? Were you feeling envious at the time? Was there

an unresolved conflict between the two of you? Have

you repented for this sin?

On the other hand, has someone betrayed your

confidence? Were you reaping what you had sown?

What valuable lesson did you learn from the inci-

dent? Have you released the offender in your heart

and no longer desire vengeance? If not, you are still

bound to him and he is still controlling your life. Let

it go. God saw the betrayal before it happened and

while it was happening. Since He chose not to inter-

vene, accept it as part of His sovereign plan for your

life. Learn from the burn, but forgive to live. Remind

yourself that in the final analysis, the incident will

work together for your good because you love God

and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).




Decide today to strive to be a trustworthy person



whom others can depend upon to guard their secrets. If you are blessed to have a trustworthy friend, thank God for such a rare jewel.




Today’s Affirmation:

I am a trustworthy person and can be

depended upon to keep a confidence.

THE MEDDLING TONGUE

The Meddling Tongue

Some of you are living idle lives,

refusing to work and wasting time

meddling in other people’s business.

2 Thessalonians 3:11




“Nosey Rosey” is the label that the people in my

hometown placed on those who were always prying

into or meddling in the affairs of others. While

mothers-in-law have the reputation for being

prime meddlers, they have not cornered the market

on this vice. Men, relatives, coworkers, and well-

meaning friends are also prone to prying from time

to time.




Unlike gossips, meddlers usually seek personal

information directly from their subjects. “How can

you afford such an expensive item?”“What size is the

dress you’re wearing?” “How much did you pay for

this house?”“How long can you afford to be off from

work?” These are the types of questions that serve


no other purpose than to satisfy an inquiring mind.

In all fairness, not everyone who makes inquiries is

meddling. Many are sincerely interested in helping

others.

Whether you are genuinely concerned or just

plain curious, be especially careful to avoid probing

questions when conversing with those who are ill.

“What did the doctor say about your condition?” Bad

question. It is best to wait for someone to volunteer

detailed information about his personal health.

If you are prone to natural curiosity, you must

make a special effort to keep your inquisitiveness

within the bounds of what is socially and spiritually

appropriate. In some situations you may have no

intentions of prying; however, you may still run the

risk of your inquisitiveness offending others.

My husband hates nosiness. I have to remind him

to be gracious in responding to queries about the

price of his personal purchases, such as a car or any

of his recreational “toys.” He will often respond,“Are

you planning to buy one?”When someone questions

me about the price of something, I will usually offer

a wide price range or jokingly say “somewhere

between one hundred and a million dollars.” I try

to be mindful of the fact that some individuals—and

even people of certain cultures—do not know that
others deem their queries as nosiness. Usually a

simple response such as, “I’m sorry, that’s confi-

dential” or “That’s personal” will be sufficient to stop

further probing.

The Bible offers an interesting perspective on

meddling: “He who passes by and meddles in a

quarrel not his own is like one who takes a dog by

the ears” (Proverbs 26:17). A dog’s ears are one

of the most sensitive parts of his body; if you pull

them, he may bite you. Likewise, when we stick our

noses where they do not belong, we may get a neg-

ative response. I have learned this from personal

experience. I had a relative who found herself in dire

financial straits. At her request, we sat together for

several hours and developed a plan for paying off her

debts and getting her back on track. Later, I helped

to orchestrate a deal that yielded her a significant

sum of money. When I reminded her to follow the

plan we had established, she became offended by

what she perceived as my intrusion into her business.

She reminded me that she was not a child and could

manage her affairs just fine! I was devastated, for I

knew I had pure motives with no intentions of med-

dling. The moral of the story is, even if you feel you

have earned the right to stick your nose into a situ-

ation, walk softly. You might want to pray about it first and leave the matter to God. He is always better

at influencing circumstances than we are.

If you are a parent, some meddling is certainly

in order to keep your inexperienced, live-at-home

children from going down the wrong path. Don’t be

afraid of their negative attitudes or their rejection.

In the final analysis, most of them will appreciate

your intervention. If your children have reached

adulthood, try to accept the fact that grown-ups do

not need parenting. The law of sowing and reaping

the consequences of bad decisions is still one of the

most effective teachers of life’s lessons. Give them

space to learn.

If you are indeed a genuine meddler, know that

God does not consider your nose-poking a small

matter. He classifies this sin—yes, sin—with murder

and stealing.

If you suffer, however, it must not be for

murder, stealing, making trouble, or prying

into other people’s affairs (1 Peter 4:15).

When tempted to meddle, why not engage in a

little self-interrogation? Ask yourself, “Do I have a

sincere, unselfish motive for prying into this matter,

or am I attempting to control things for my desired objectives?” Someone once said that one reason why people who mind their own business are successful is that they have so little competition. Think about that!




Today’s Affirmation

I am genuinely interested in others and

only seek information from them

that will allow me to serve, love, and

support them better

THE GOSSIPING TONGUE

The Gossiping Tongue

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels;

they go down to a man’s inmost parts.

Proverbs 18:8




It seemed that every woman at the beauty shop

had an opinion about why Oprah Winfrey had not

married her longtime beau, Stedman Graham.

Refusing to join the discussion, I buried my head in

my book and decided it was a good time to catch up

on my reading. Because I have been the subject of a

few “newsy” conversations, I have an aversion to such

nonproductive exchanges. I sat there thinking,

What’s it to you? Why do you care?

Do you sometimes engage in idle and often mali-

cious talk about the personal affairs of another?

Gossip can be such a delectable “choice morsel” that

many find it impossible to resist. Now, I’m certain

everyone reading this book has been guilty of par-

taking of this popular pastime—either as a bearer


or a hearer at one time or another. Oh, the down-

side of such behavior!

Did you know that gossiping can lower your sense

of self-worth? How? When you gossip, you tend to

realize you are not walking in integrity. We feel best

about ourselves when we do things that are pleasing

to God; after all, He created us for His pleasure.

What’s the solution? How do you stop gossiping?

Catch yourself before you indulge! Ask yourself why

you are being a bearer of such news. Is this the only

way you know how to establish camaraderie with

others? Do you need to be the center of attention?

Does it make you feel superior to know something

negative about somebody that the hearer doesn’t

know? Are you envious of your subject’s accom-

plishments? Why are you willing to use the temple

of God as a “trash receptacle” by being a receiver of

gossip? What do you plan to do with the informa-

tion a gossip shares with you? Are you bored with

your life and need more meaningful activities? It has

been my observation that those who are ardently

pursuing their own goals and aspirations are less

likely to waste time discussing the affairs of another.

If you are serious about eliminating gossip from

your life, you must start an all-out campaign

against it. Let everyone know you will not be a bearer a hearer of “choice morsels” about anyone. Declare your environment, whether at work, at home, or at play, to be a “gossip-free zone.” Make every effort to avoid gossipmongers. Proverbs 20:19 warns,“A gossip tells secrets, so don’t hang around with someone who talks too much”.

When people come into my office and start to

gossip or to engage in any other ungodly talk, I point

to my tongue and exclaim,“tongue fast!”They imme-

diately know I have no plans to indulge their con-

versation. Refusing to engage in gossip may result in

fewer visitors and phone calls; however, your impact

will be far-reaching. I have received emails, calls, and

letters from people across the United States testifying

about the impact that the tongue fast is having on

their lives.

When your tongue is used as an instrument of

righteousness, your stock will rise in heaven. You will

be able to humbly declare, with complete dependence on the Father, “Let the words of my mouth, and the

meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight,

O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer” (Psalm. 19:14).




Today’s Affirmation:

I am not a busybody in other people’s

matters. Therefore, I do not yield my



tongue as an instrument of gossip.

THE SLANDERING TONGUE

The Slandering Tongue

To hide hatred is to be a liar;

to slander is to be a fool.

Proverbs 10:18




Slanderers make malicious, false, or even true

statements about others with the intent of damaging

their reputation, character, or good name. Political

campaigners are notorious for releasing slanderous

statements to the media with the hope of disadvan-

taging their opponents. Rare is the candidate who

runs a totally clean campaign these days. Slandering

is not limited to politicians, however. Given certain

circumstances, anyone can be tempted to denigrate

another. One thing that we can be assured of is that

there won’t be any slanderers in heaven.

LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?

Who may live on your holy hill? He whose

walk is blameless and who does what is

righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who

does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur

on his fellowman (Psalm 15:1-3).

Can you recall a time in which you made

detracting remarks about someone? What was your

motive in doing so? Why did you feel the need to

diminish that person’s character in the eyes of

another? Were you speaking out of the pain of being

hurt by her? Did you envy her accomplishments? If

so, have you not learned how to let your envy moti-

vate you to achieve your own goals rather than cause

you to defame another? It is likely you grudgingly

admire and desire something that the other person

possesses.

Some people are so insecure and easily threatened

that they feel they must cast aspersions on the char-

acter of others whom they perceive as “the compe-

tition” in order to maintain their position. Such was

the case of Diotrephes, a New Testament church

leader. He found himself in a real dilemma when

John recommended some anointed teachers of the

gospel to speak at his church. Plagued with insecu-

rity, he feared that their visit would threaten his pre-

eminence, so he refused to allow them to come. John

was quite upset with his behavior and explained to

his friend Gaius how he planned to deal with it.




When I come, I will report some of the things

he is doing and the wicked things he is saying

about us. He not only refuses to welcome the

traveling teachers, he also tells others not to

help them. And when they do help, he puts

them out of the church (3 John 1:10).

Y ou can find many a Diotrephes in sacred and

secular organizations. They cast aspersions on

threatening newcomers; they accuse bright, talented

women of getting ahead by means other than skills,

talents, and qualifications. They look for a chink in

their victim’s armor. Contrary to what they think,

diminishing the image of another is not going to

enhance their image.

Resorting to slander is clear evidence that one has

not embraced certain of God’s promises. For

instance, because of Psalm 75:6-7, I know for cer-

tain that promotions and exaltation come from God

rather than man. This truth causes me to be a team

player. There is no reason for me to snuff out any-

body’s light so that mine will shine. Further, God has

declared that no man can thwart His purpose for our

lives.

The LORD Almighty has spoken—who can

change his plans? When his hand moves,



who can stop him? (Isaiah 14:27).




Since God has secured our destiny and has prom-

ised to avenge all wrongs perpetrated against us, why

engage in slander? I find it interesting that the Greek

word for “slander” is derived from diabolos, which

means “devil.” Slandering is an illegal, diabolical act

that God abhors. When we attempt to defame others

with our denigrating words, we are sowing evil seeds

for which we will surely reap the consequences.“He

who guards his mouth preserves his life, but he who

opens wide his lips shall have destruction” (Proverbs 13:3).




Today’s Affirmation:

I refuse to be a slanderer. I will use

Philippians 4:8 as my conversation

sifter. Therefore, whatever things are

true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of

good report, if there is any virtue and

if there is anything praiseworthy

about someone, I comment only on



these things

OVERVIEW OF FALL FEASTS

Leviticus 23

Today we look to- RETURN -H7725 shuv--to turn back, return, to bring back, to be returned, be restored, be brought back

The Torah testifies...............

Genesis 3:19

In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return H7725 unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. H7725

The prophets proclaim..................

Hosea 5:15

I will go and return H7725 to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.

The writings bear witness...........................

2 Chronicles 30:9

For if ye turn again H7725 unto the LORD, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again H7725 into this land: for the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return H7725 unto him.

Grand Rising Fiveamprayer family! As we continue on Day 2! It’s so important to be on one accord! He goes before us and make every crooked place straight! Let’s get a deeper understanding of The Fall Feast! THE OVERVIEW OF THE FALL FEAST!! The seventh month on the Hebrew lunar calendar is the month of Tishri, which falls between September and October depending on the year. The three concluding Fall Feast all occur in the seventh month. Seven is the number of DIVINE PERFECTION!! It's the Second day Fiveamprayer, we better understand how Yah is establishing His Word today! Each of these fall feast are intertwined together: The Feast of Trumpets, powerfully alerts us to the urgent need of godly sorrow that brings true Teshuvah ( Leviticus 23:25 2 Corinthians 7:10). TESHUVAH Leads to REDEMPTION magnified through the next Holy Days, Yom Kippur The Day Of Atonement, the covering and removal of our repentant sins in the blood of the sacrifice ( Leviticus 23:26-32 Colossians 1:14). All seven biblical Feast points to the sacrificial altar magnifying YAHUSHA the Lamb of Yah who was slain for the forgiveness of our sins and redemption of our souls. Only the REDEEMED remnant who are working out their salvation with fear and trembling will be eternal partakers of the prophetic fulfillment of the last great Feast called The Feast of TABERNACLES and The Feast of GREAT REJOICING (Philippians 2:12, Leviticus 23: 39-43). The last great day this Feast points to the GREATEST REJOICING of all at the wedding supper of the Lamb, the long awaited marriage of the redeemed faith filled remnant, the holy Bride eternally united with their Bridegroom and Savior. HALLELUYAH! For The Most High our Yah the Almighty reigns! LET US REJOICE!! And give Him honor and glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His Bride has made herself ready; it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure, for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints ( Revelation 19:6-8). IT IS WRITTEN, and I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from Yah, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, Behold, THE TABERNACLE OF THE MOST HIGH YAH IS AMONG MEN, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and Yah Himself will be among them!! ( Revelation 21:2-3)!! GLOOOORRY!!! YAHUSHA is the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End, ( Revelation 22:13, Isaiah 44:6). He is the Passover Lamb who fulfilled all the Feast by dying to redeem a remnant out of this dark world and the flesh's sin nature. The congregation of the righteous remnant is cleansed in His blood made holy and acceptable as a bride eagerly waiting her righteous Bridegroom and His holy Kingdom. The Holy RUACH like a shofar is loudly proclaiming! TESHUVAH! TESHUVAH! TESHUVAH! The Kingdom of heaven is at hand (Matthew 3:2). At this late hour the most important question is: Will you be there? Are you getting ready? Is YAHUSHA the utmost desire of your heart, compelling you continually to Teshuvah and be washed in His blood and clothed in His righteousness? Are you diligently working out your soul salvation to be freed from the contaminants of the world, your flesh, and your sin nature in order to be adorned in pure spiritual wedding garments befitting our coming holy Bridegroom King? ( Philippians 2:12, Revelation 19:7-8). The Shofar! The heavenly trumpet is sounding!! We are at the end of age and the fulfillment of these fall feast is upon us with outpoured judgments from a holy jealous Yah who will consume His enemies with His righteous indignation and consuming fire ( Exodus 34:14, Hebrews 12:29). Therefore, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of Yah ( 2 Corinthians 7:1). As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourself also in all your behavior, because it is written YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY! For without holiness no one will see YAH! ( 1 Peter 1:14, Hebrews 12:14)!!! ALL PRAISES TO THE MOST HIGH YAH!!!