Ruth McMillan Mayfield

Enthroned Above the Circle of the Earth

2010-10-10T08:46:00.001-04:00

I found myself wide awake in the middle of a twelve hour plane ride returning from six weeks in Israel. I first awoke with a headache I waited and prayed that it would go away but finally had to wake my husband to climb over him to get back to the galley where a kind steward gave me aspirin and lots of liquids. Returning to my seat, I did not want to wake the sleeping fellow passengers so I decided to open the window portal to view the sky. I knew it was sometime in the middle of the night in the current time zone and I would be able to gaze at the billions of stars without obstruction of clouds or atmosphere from our 40,000 foot perspective. I was amazed to see so many stars lighting up the sky! It was FULL of stars!

On the horizon was a thin arc of white cloud looking sheets. I peered at this for a few seconds wondering about these strange clouds so high, when I realized they were waving like sheets with bright strands reaching upward then fading. Northern Lights! Aurora Borealis! It had been many, many years since I had viewed them from the backyard at my parents rural farm house as a teen. But here they were, a private showing with no trees, clouds or artificial lights to obstruct the amazing view! I watched mesmerized for several minutes as they ebbed and flowed in waves of light sometimes hinting toward blue or green as they grew bright, then faded again. They stretch the entire width of the arc of the earth I could see from my window.

I looked around at the sleeping, oblivious people around me and decided it would be okay to poke my husband at least, to share in this awesome display. He tried to watch for a few minutes, but it was difficult to see unless you pressed your face to the window. I knew our camera couldn't capture the sight even if it were accessible. I decided God must be giving me a private showing, so I just sat and tried to take in the moment. Suddenly, I heard inside my head, "Behold, I sit enthroned above the circle of the earth." (similar to Isaiah 40:22) I knew it was God speaking. I immediately remembered Revelation 4 where it describes an emerald rainbow above God's throne. I always wondered what that meant, as most rainbows are not a particular color and require water in the air to reflect light. I never considered that it might look very much like the beautiful display of sheets of light often seen in the display of Northern Lights where green is definitely the predominant color.

In any case, my heart knew that God's message to me was that He was ruling and reigning, fully in control of events regarding this blue marble called earth. This was of great comfort to me personally, because of the events in my own life that had left me wondering so often lately what my next step should be. I often joke about the 40,000 foot perspective God often gives me when I pray for nations and leaders. Here I was, literally at that elevation, at 1:30 am, above Greenland in the Atlantic Ocean, considering God's sovereignty. Wow!

I was in awe of God, His Majesty and Power, His Beauty and the beauty which He has created--and at the same time comforted in His guidance of the very details of my life and my walk with Him. Leaving Israel again was difficult. I questioned my longing to be 'home' in Rochester. I questioned our ability to continue in ministry given the challenges we face on a daily basis. But I know that God is on the throne--a really big, beautiful throne that all heaven looks to. And thus, I will fix my eyes there as well, through the pressure of life's difficulties, listening for the still small voice--"This is the way, walk ye in it..." (Isaiah 30:21)

It turns out in 2010 we entered a peak time in the sun's 11 year cycle for solar storms which can cause Northern Lights to manifest. For more info and pics of Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis here are a couple links:
http://www.spaceweather.com/
http://geology.com/nasa/aurora-borealis.shtml
http://www.trustedlog.com/2007/06/25/northern-lights-aurora/
http://www.spaceweather.com/aurora/gallery_01sep10_page4.htm

A Song from the Day You Were Formed

2010-06-10T23:50:00.003-04:00

[This is an excerpt from my book, Visions in the Night, available from my website, Amazon.com or your favorite bookstore!]

Every one that is called by my name: I have created for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him. Isaiah 43:7

I was hurrying to get ready for my turn. There were angelic guides looking very much like ordinary people, and they were directing us to dress and prepare. When they told me I would be expected to dance as I sang the song from the day I was formed, my heart was both ecstatic and fearful. The thought of the song made my heart leap—but I am not a singer. Could I recall the words? It had been a very long time since I heard them. Moreover, I am even less of a dancer; klutz was the word I used to describe my level of gracefulness on earth. Could I possibly know what moves to make and remember the words at the same time? As if the angels could hear my thoughts, they assured me that the words would appear on the wall—not to worry.

After I was dressed and prepared, we walked down a hall and came to a door. I entered the room where I would share my song and dance. My clothing surprised me, as it was a camouflage blend of colors—very earthy, but thin and transparent—wispy. Somehow, I knew it was correct though. The room was tiered with a light blue carpet and could hold only about fifty people standing and sitting. There were a number of people and angels, but it wasn't full. I'm not sure how I could tell them apart—but I could. In the center of the room was an open area where the people would take their turn and share. A woman was doing her dance as I walked in. She had short brown hair, she also wasn't physically graceful and I could only see her mouthing the words—not really singing, sort of saying the words, but it was simplistically beautiful. She pantomimed God speaking over her and then looked up and around as if she was looking for the reaction of a heavenly cloud of witnesses. My eye caught on the words on the wall. I was surprised to see them in script, a kind of cursive print that could have been English. This reassured me that if I forgot words there would be a reminder over my shoulder. I moved in to kneel down to start my dance.

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knows right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unformed; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. Psalm 139:4-16

Comment: This dream amazes me. The fact that I was fully aware in the dream that such a song exists, amazes me even now. I have never thought about the day I was formed. I cannot imagine how many eons ago this may have been. This was not the day I was born, nor the day I was conceived—but the day the Lord took thought of me—who I would be, my personality, my physical design, my spiritual being—the real me. In my heart I knew the song, I would recognize it as the angel played the tune, I would know what movements went with it, and the Lord would bring the words back if I was simply worshipping Him and not concerned about me. My overall feelings during the dream were of loving humility and obedience.

The color blue of the carpet reminds me of the heavenly place I was in. The transparent green and brown of my garment speak of my earthiness and my prophetic tendencies to see and operate in the spiritual realm. I only saw the sleeve on my arm—I have no idea what the rest of me looked like. I find the details of this dream very difficult to describe. Even now as I recall this dream, I am overcome with His thoughts for me—His joy in creating me for His divine purpose.

In the dance, I began by sitting on my feet on the floor, looking down. My arms were down with my hands touching the floor. My head also was looking toward the floor. I understood that I would quickly rise up, my arms and head lifted to the heavens as I stood. Then I would blossom as a flower. All of this event’s sequence was in my head, though I didn’t know how I was going to act it through. I just knew the creative, divine music would trigger my body to respond. I was not only willing, but I trembled with enthusiasm and excitement to participate.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

This dream was from January 2007. Since then I have learned that scientists have discovered that even our DNA resonates at a frequency that is considered music! Our awesome God creates each of us as unique and special expressions of His love. How wonderful are His thoughts toward us!

Copyright © 2008 by Ruth Mayfield All rights reserved. These articles may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, by including this notice.

Press Release

2009-03-23T22:46:00.003-04:00

| Tate Publishing and Enterprises, LLC |
Publisher’s Press Release: For Immediate Release
Contact:
Amanda Soderberg, Marketing Representative asoderberg@tatepublishing.com
Tate Publishing and Enterprises
(888) 361-9473
NY Author Shares True Story of Inspiring Faith

Local author Ruth McMillan Mayfield, of Penfield, New York, delivers a true story of faith as she shares her husband’s multiple encounters with death and the miracles that followed in her new book releasing nationwide this week, titled “Trusting God through the Valley: One Couple's Journey of Faith.”
When her husband, Duane, collapsed, Mayfield says she had no idea that the ministry plans they had prayerfully laid out had been shattered. The world as she knew it, and the husband she had married, were about to be transformed. The author invites readers to join her on a journey of faith as she rests in peaceful assurance that the Lord has everything under control, despite doctors’ devastating news, and witnesses His miraculous intervention again and again.
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or target.com.
Mayfield earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and post-graduation, studied artificial intelligence at Rochester Institute of Technology, and biblical studies and theology through Trinity College of the Bible. She served the past four years with her husband on the leadership team at Narkis Street Congregation in Jerusalem, Israel, and ministered full-time with Horizon Ministries, which the couple co-founded in 2005.
She currently resides in Penfield, New York.
###
EDITOR/PRODUCER: Are you interested in interviewing the author or reviewing the book? Let me know, and I’ll gladly send along a book copy for your consideration.
127 E. Trade Center Terrace | Mustang, OK | Toll Free (888) 361-9473 | www.tatepublishing.com | Fax (405) 376-4401

Things Foretold

2009-02-12T01:30:00.000-05:00

You have heard [these things foretold], now you see this fulfillment. And will you not bear witness to it? I show you specified new things from this time forth, even hidden things [kept in reserve] which you have not known. They are created now [called into being by the prophetic word], and not long ago; and before today you have never heard of them, lest you should say, Behold, I knew them! Isaiah 48:6-7 [Amplified Bible]

Many have a sense of anticipation today. In the US and Israel we have new leaders. The world is watching, wondering, anticipating change. There is a churning of anxiety welling in an undercurrent for those who are familiar with God's Word and look for His glorious appearing. The world, and even some believers, have the following perspective. They look forward to "change", with hope and expectation that the difficulties of today will melt away soon. They trust that the system that has brought them to comfort and a semblance of prosperity will continue to do just that, once we get beyond the present bumps in the road.

Those who have been tuning their ears to hear what the Spirit of the Lord is saying do not hold any hope in the world system that has brought us to this point in time. Everyday we hear of yet another piece of evidence that points to the end of this world system. It will not be the ushering in of a "New World Order", but the Kingdom of God is about to be manifested beyond anything we have dreamed or thought. This will not be a smooth transition as some thought, but a violent take over as in a clash of civilizations.

There are those who are confident that the masses will ignorantly follow the lead of corrupt leaders. The world is poised for this. The elections are proof. Back in 2006, Palestinians in Gaza elected a brutal terrorist organization to govern them. Governments around the world are led today by men and women that would have been considered insane just a few decades ago. Iran's leader has a goal of ushering the twelvth imam--basically facilitating the end of the world as we know it. The West is also full of leaders with bizarre ideas. America is quickly changing from being a benevelent leader in the world to a world facilitator for peace. It's not likely she will survive long by laying down all her weapons before unrepentant nations known for their conquering by the sword. She will be relinquished to a role of submissive fool strutting around in her filthy, tattered old robes of previous prosperity, while she starves because both hands are still holding on to what once was.

A remnant of the Church are fervently praying for God's will. Yet rather than seeing honesty, integrity, righteous, justice, and truth arise we see a spiraling downward result. Isn't God listening? Are we beyond repentance? No, God is listening and He is responding with His will and purposes. We are watching the unfolding of the end times everyday. In spite of some religious leaders opinions that the Church will not go through the trials of the last days, the Lord will take us through faithfully as He has promised, without leaving or forsaking us. Jesus himself said, "When you see all these things begin to happen, LOOK UP! Be Encouraged! For your redemption draws nigh!" (Luke 21:28 paraphrased)

Our focus and priorities need to radically shift. There is little time left to bring in the harvest of souls that have been designated and reserved. Not one will be lost because the Father holds the times and the seasons in His hand--the enemy cannot change them, or shorten them so that men will not have the opportunity to be saved. The more we pray for God's will and His mercy, the less suffering will need to take place. In Luke 21, Jesus also stated that men's hearts would fail them. We need to build up our faith reading the Bible and praying, digging the old wells of faithful warriors that have gone before us knowing that it is the word of our testimony--that of the Church as overcomers--that will untimately defeat every foe and make us overcomers as well.

The battle in the heavenlies has already begun. If for a brief moment our eyes would be open, we would begin to understand the illogical actions of our leaders--national, spiritual, and educational. Many of them, some "good men and women", are already puppets in the hand of the enemy. But God's mercy does not remove that veil so that we would not fear, rather trust Him as His Word clearly directs us.

I pray that many will respond in their spirits to the Lord and begin to remove the hinderances of living in this crumbling world and seek Him and His Kingdom first--thereby walking in the Spirit and being led by the Spirit, in continual communion with the Father. It is not some lofty, unattainable goal reserved for monks--certainly not mothers with young children or even pastors tending to the needs of large flocks! We will soon find that spending time with the Lord in His Word, worship and communication will be the sustanence of our life--like bread and water, eating, sleeping, and breathing sustains us at our base level. Jesus claimed to be the Bread of Life (John 6), He is the Living Water (John 4), and in Him is Life and the Light of men (John 1:4). We will eventually be forced to unstand this, or choose now to embrace the intimacy the Lord longs for with us.

We will soon begin to experience Peace that can only come from the Father. Peace in the midst of the storm, Peace that is unshakable. Our goal is not so much to seek peace, rather to see God's glory revealed as His Kingdom comes and His will is accomplished in this earth and most importantly in each of our lives. Look up! (In joyful anticipation!) For the King, the Lord, draws nigh--first to an established place in our hearts and then to bring true peace, through mercy and justice, to this world.

Father God, hear our prayer echoed from the words of Your Son, Jesus. Open our eyes, ears and our hearts to hear Your voice wooing us to that place of anticipation in seeing Your glory cover the earth. Lord, have mercy on man, that all who would be saved will indeed quickly come to a saving knowledge of their Lord Jesus. Send your peace to hearts determined to be fixed on You and Your purposes. Have mercy on your chosen people Israel as they walk out the details of their redemption according to Your plans in Your perfect timing, Lord. We expect to see surpernatural manifestations of Your love, compassion and mercy as we become totally dependent on You. You alone are God and worthy of all glory, honor and praise. In You alone we trust and place our hope. Thank you Father, for Your everlasting Mercy...

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. ROMANS 8:18 - 25 (KJV)

Parable of the 10 Virgins

2009-01-23T08:46:00.000-05:00

Recently the Lord had me read through the entire Bible in about a month's time. It was an amazing adventure filled with insight and revelation about the Word of God, His perspective and my own faith. It impacted my life much like a forty day fast--although it was a 36 day feast! One of the many familiar passages took on a new perspective for me. As the Lord had me begin with Revelation and end with the same book again, it gave me a particular focus on what God Himself had to say on many subjects, including End Times. My bible is now colored with green pencil every where in the Old Testament where God is directly speaking Himself or through a "thus saith the Lord" type indication. The coloring is quite revealing itself.

I have been meditating on this passage in Matthew 25.

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with
them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.

As I often get revelation from God through pictures, I saw these virgins--bridesmaids--waiting in the streets for the wedding celebration to begin. In the beginning all were equally excited, talking about how wonderful the event was going to be, how handsome the groom was, how beautiful they each were dressed in the wedding garments. As time passed some would ask, "How soon do you think He will come?" While the groom delayed some began to loudly proclaim that He would be there any minute. As darkness came and filled the night they continued to proclaim that He was honorable and never late. The bridegroom had invited them with the expectation of His soon coming. "Look, perhaps those are His footsteps we now hear!"

But time passed and the bridegroom did not arrive. The scripture says he was delayed. In Jewish wedding custom we know that the father was the one who decided when the wedding day would be. Everything had to be meticulously prepared and ready. As the virgins waited, each with anticipation, it began to grow dark. Time continued to pass as five of the virgins saw their lamps beginning to flicker. Their oil was running out. Where was the Bridegroom? How could He have invited them and not made it clear that they would have to wait so long? The night was dark, cold and dangerous. Yet they all fell asleep.

Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

When the alarm came they all awoke. They begged the five others to share their oil, but were refused. They had only enough oil for themselves to last through the entire night. The five who ran out of oil had to leave to buy more. They were labeled foolish by Jesus as He told this parable.

I had wondered why the five wise virgins wouldn't share. God teaches in His Word that we are to share, but there are some things like anointing and revelation that cannot be shared--each has to have their own. These five wise virgins had prepared themselves in case the wait was longer than anticipated--perhaps until the very end of the night. The foolish did not consider that possibility. The were convinced that the Bridegroom would return before their lamps could run out.

This reminds me of those who are absolutely convinced that we will not have to endure through the long, dark night of tribulation before the Bridegroom returns. The parable indicates it was in the middle of the night, later than anticipated by some of the wedding party. Perhaps just a little longer than they were prepared to endure. If we have diligently prepared with extra oil, we can be wise and ready during the darkness, without fear.

I have a heart that has grieved for those mentioned in Matthew 7:21-23.

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Jesus called them foolish like a man building his house upon the sand instead of the Rock. I picture these foolish virgins just like this when the door is shut. It grieves my heart when people want to enter into the surface blessings of God without true intimacy which often involves suffering and sacrifice. The faith chapter, Hebrews 11 gives us insight for living as true overcomers. (verses 33-39)

...Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and [in] mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:

All it takes is a mustard seed of faith firmly planted in a faithful and mighty God with enough trust to do whatever He suggests. I would like to see everyone diligent to embrace the revelation of becoming overcomers who enter into His rest as mentioned seven times to the churches in Revelation. Oil comes from reading and meditation on God's Word, seeking Him first in all things and living in the intimacy of the knowledge He reveals to you about how much you can trust Him. We must be willing to lay down our lives and participate in His suffering to have the intimacy of His presence that makes us unshakable and walking in the Light, in the dark night that is coming--however long it lasts.

Copyright 2009 www.ruthmcmillanmayfield.com Permission granted to distribute message in its without changes, deletions or additions by including this notice.

Mercy

2009-01-06T04:14:00.000-05:00

Mercy has been one of the fruits of the Spirit that I have struggled with. As a person with a "D" personality I am a "doer". I tend to be very black and white and therefore judgmental. From my often difficult life experiences of being homeless, destitute and then by God's grace rising from ashes to self-sufficiency (at least financially), I often wonder why people choose to suffer.

I have learned that in my weakness God's strength is made perfect and is poured into me giving me grace--ability to do what I could not and His favor which opens doors and causes all things to work for my good and His glory. He redeems my life. Both the successes and the failures. I have seen the Lord's mercy at work in my life and my heart. Rather than condemning me for my mistakes, He applies the Blood of His Son Jesus to me as I fall upon the Rock in a broken heap and puddle of tears, acknowledging my need for His Salvation and intervention in the form of redemption.

I often share stories with exactly that theme with believers and unbelievers alike, to build their faith and point them to God. Yet, as I meet beggars on the street, I look in their eyes and see their choice to reject God--it deeply saddens me--I feel no compassion for their situation, only for their choice. And an anger rises within me that I have trouble identifying. When I see the consequences of sin in people's life without repentance, again I feel the same. And I wonder, How does God look upon the poor, hurting people lost in sin, groveling in their penthouse offices and in the filthy gutters in the street?

I used to think I didn't have mercy, or but a tiny seed that I don't seem to know how to grow. My words can be harshest with those whom I am closest to. Like Jesus' words to the Pharisees compared to his compassion on the masses who followed him, although often just to experience their miracle or receive a loaf of bread. The scriptures say, "He healed them all." (Matthew 12:15, Luke 4:40)

There is no question--God is merciful. This is repeated again and again in the scriptures--Old and New Covenants. Just like God is Love, God is Mercy. His mercies are sufficient for each day and each occasion that arises--to us, sometimes unexpectedly. His mercies are in fact new every morning (Lamentations 3:23-24). In Hebrew the word is chesed (pronounced kheh-sed). It is translated in KJV as loving kindness, goodness, tender mercies, loving kindness. It is found in a noun form and verb form, even someone can be a chesid--translated "holy one" (as in God Himself, Psalm 16:10) or chesidim "saints" (Psalm 145:10). This has penetrated my thinking in a new way.

By my faith in the blood of Jesus, my Lord and Savior, I am a saint of God. Nothing like a Joan of Arc, but God calls me his own, redeemed (purchased) with the price of His blood and made to sit in heavenly places sharing in His inheritance. Wow! I could spend the rest of my life just taking that in. So how do I act and live in this revelation? How do I act like a chesidim, a merciful one, a saint, everyday?

Those who know my life know that 2007 was a year of trials and miracles where God sovereignly brought us through the valley of the shadow of death. (Buy the book to read the details.) During the entire ordeal the Lord hovered over us placing us in a cloud of faith and trust in His faithfulness. I did not actively seek God for those things. My faith did not waiver. I never considered any outcome but the Lord's best. Most amazingly to me, the Lord gave me an ability to operate in mercy toward my husband. I sat with him for hours, doing nothing at all just so that he could know at some level of consciousness that I was there for him--completely there with all my focus on him and his needs. I am not a care giver by nature--these acts were very foreign to me and not motivated by a deep love and devotion to my husband. In fact my emotions were kind of numb during most of that time--I believe as a protection of my soul by that same cloud of God's glory and favor that abode with us.

During 2008, we began the next phase of the trial which we had thought was completed. God is with us, but in a different way. That cloud was removed. It reminds me of the Israelites crossing over into the Promised Land. No more cloud or pillar of fire. No more manna. They had to learn how to apply the Covenant given by Moses which spelled out God's mercy toward them, into everyday life--conquering and then settling the Land. Revelations of God's mercy in my own heart and soul are compelling me to understand His Mercy and His Kingdom in deep and amazing ways. It is a fight to conquer the wicked inhabitants in my heart and utterly destroy them. No battle should be engaged without the Lord's direction and counsel. This takes place over time with mistakes and failures along the way. But if I seek first the Kingdom of God, His will and His way in my life, the victory is promised.

I am understanding that I have in my past refused to accept God's mercy in areas of my life that I somehow was ashamed of and thought were unredeemable. Things that would somehow just pass away when we are translated from this life of clay/flesh to the incorruptible in the heavenly Kingdom of God. I desperately need Him to fill my heart and soul with His mercy. To embrace it fully in order that it can exude from my life just like an anointing and like the supernatural faith that operates in my life because I acknowledge my mustard seed faith placed in a omnipotent, faithful Father God. I desire with my whole heart for God's mercy to flow through me.

I ask for God's mercy and protection of those around me, especially my husband, as the Lord explores and brings to light all the dark places I have hidden in my heart. I admit I scream at times. I feel like I am being tortured as I am having to let go of and acknowledge my inabilities to be merciful-mostly due to my own self-condemnation. There is no good in me. I am selfish, self-seeking and wicked--just as the Bible says (Jeremiah 17:9). Yet once again, by the blood of Jesus, I can come boldly to the throne of grace to find mercy. (Hebrews 4:16) Mercy that will fill and heal the brokenness and pain within me. Mercy that will fill me to overflowing with thanksgiving and understanding of the immense love that God has for us all and the unfathomable price He paid to show it. Mercy that was revealed before the foundation of the world. Mercy available each moment of every day. Mercy that will be revealed more and more as the Day of the Lord approaches at the end of this age. Mercy that is love and salvation to those who will have faith in God and destruction and wrath to those who will not. Mercy that is God in us, to us and through us to the world.

Five Smooth Stones

2008-11-15T12:49:00.000-05:00

In 1 Samuel 17 we read the story of David and Goliath, which most have heard in some form either in Sunday school or from the pulpit. I invite you to look into this familiar story with a new perspective.

Here is David, about seventeen years old. He had not long ago been anointed King of Israel in a secret ceremony by the Prophet Samuel. The youngest of eight boys, his duty since the time he was very young was to tend the sheep for the family. He ate and slept on the hills of Judea guarding the sheep, faithful to do his part with honor. We also know that David took his harp with him and was adept at creating songs expressing his relationship with God, many of which one day became part of the Book of Psalms in our Bible.

King Saul was the current King of Israel. Israel was at war with the Philistines, engaged in battle at Elah. But this time the giant, dread warrior from Gath, Goliath, was challenging anyone from the armies of Israel to battle--survivor wins the entire battle. This is where David comes to bring his older brother's some food supplies from their father. When David hears the challenge he is outraged at the defiance of this man challenging Israel, God's army. You see already David had a different perspective than anyone else. Because of the time he spent worshipping the Lord and faithful to his duties, he had God's perspective on the situation and God's favor!

Quite unbelievably the King allows a young lad to go against this giant with no armor and no weapons, just his staff and a sling shot. That had to be God's favor because if David lost, Israel would lose the battle. David reminds me of the many soldiers who go into the armed services in Israel today. He was the same age, he grew up with the understanding of the importance of being Jewish, honoring God and country. Well, most Israeli's today are secular, but there is still the freshness and passion of youth they share with David.

David is quite different from most because he had spent a great deal of time with the Lord. Not reading just the Torah--as the Priests and Levites did--but actually talking, singing, and meditating on God himself. Later, scriptures label him a friend of God. The result was that God was with David. He had slain a bear and a lion with his hands. He saw the challenge as God's and not his or the army's.

David knows that a giant is but an ant compared to God. But he uses the wisdom that God has taught him in the wilderness as strategy. He knew that God was going to use him to defeat the enemy. He knew that in the best rocks for his sling were found in the river bed, right there at their feet. As he squats to pick them up he is studying the situation. He would have at most five chances to swing the rocks before he was overtaken by the charging giant. He knew exactly what he had to do--plant a rock squarely between the giant's eyes. No problem! God was with him! Goliath had no idea that he was facing the Lord's dread warrior, camoflaged in the form of a young man. A man with the wisdom and strategies of Almighty God--El Gibbor.

Today more than ever before in history we are in desperate need of God's strategies for war and the Lord's perspective for every battle we face. There are many giants, and the armies coming against us are numerous, armed with stealth and great evil. Many believers have found themselves in a wilderness, suffering in various trials--yet getting good at worshipping in all seasons and calling on the Name of the Lord, rather than attempting anything in their own strength. We are becoming dread warriors for the Lord. The enemy has no idea where we come from, and will not recognize us clothed in humility.

I picture David grasping the five smooth stones, turning them over in his hand. While he studies the giant and the situation, he places them in his pouch. His eyes are still fixed on the enemy, bright with the revelation of God's omnipotence, with full confidence in the outcome because he knows his God.

How can we know God like that? Read the Word. The Bible is living and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), in it are the Words of Life. Jesus is the Word made flesh. Read it until you can find five smooth stones without having to even look for them, weapons available at the ready for any situation, empowered and targeted by your relationship with our loving, heavenly Father--Almighty God.

Copyright © 2008 by Ruth Mayfield All rights reserved. These articles may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, by including this notice.

God says, "Fret not."

2008-10-11T18:16:00.000-04:00

Psalm 37

vs. 1 Fret not...
vs. 7 ...fret not...
vs. 8 ...fret not...

In this Psalm God tells us the end of the wicked. It is not a desirable end, so much so that it challenges us to consider our ways that we would not be counted one of them.

We want to focus on the opposite idea. We, the righteous sanctified by His blood, can trust in the Lord and there are blessings that come, even when the wicked seem to prosper or when judgment comes. God is faithful. Trust Him.

Below are highlighted blessings from Psalm 37. Read it and be encouraged.

...Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shall you dwell in the land, and surely thou shall be fed. Delight yourself also in the LORD; and he shall give you the desires of thine heart. Commit your way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him...the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace....A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked....the LORD upholds the righteous. The LORD knows the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be forever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied....the righteous shows mercy, and gives....The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and He delights in his way. Though a good man fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholds him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lends; and his descendants are blessed....the LORD loves justice, and forsakes not his saints; they are preserved for ever...The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever. The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of judgment. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide....Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee...Mark the blameless man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace....the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him.

Read the Word, pray the Word, believe the Word. God watches over it to bring it to pass. Trust Him.

Copyright © 2008 by Ruth Mayfield All rights reserved. These articles may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, by including this notice.

God's Book of Remembrance

2008-09-15T11:38:00.002-04:00

How often do we as believers get together with friends and family for fellowship? It can be at a worship service, over a meal or coffee, or a chance meeting on the street--perhaps even on a cell phone! We find ourselves rehearsing the testimony that the Lord has given us of how He has spoken to us this week, or blessed us with health, wisdom or miracles! We can't wait to share how God continues to smile upon our lives even when we are so far from perfect.

Recently we were privileged to spend the better part of a day with a very good friend. We shared our plans, our burdens and difficulties and then spent some time in prayer asking for God's Wisdom and Guidance, healing and grace. We continued talking of how God has been faithful to us through the adversity each of us has walked through during the past year. Each of us has some very difficult things we are currently going through--burdens which could really shake our faith. Yet we shared and encouraged each other God's Faithfulness. He is amazing! He intervenes and takes big impossibilities and turns them into blessings for His Glory. It is so exciting to sit and watch, with our minimal participation (and sometimes in spite of us), God will accomplish His plan and purpose in our lives as we allow Him to. The more we cooperate the easier the path may be, but that doesn't usually mean easy paths and abundant provision. The Lord has orchestrated a beautifully complex mosaic of people's lives that interconnect and His purposes are often to purify and beautify us from the inside out, all the while desiring to have more intimate relationships with us. That we might get to know Him more and more.

Most of us understand that the Lord desires to commune with us, even as He communed with Adam in the Garden of Eden. He sent Jesus to die a cruel death so that we might receive forgiveness through His shed Blood and be reconciled to God through faith in Jesus as Messiah. Jesus taught us to pray after the pattern of what we refer to as the Lord's Prayer. The Gospels tell of Jesus' relationship with the Father, drawing away from the crowds to spend intimate time with God. All that Jesus accomplished, was because He said and did only what He saw the Father saying and doing. Jesus is our example. It is absolutely essential for us in today's world to separate ourselves and spend time in the presence of God, even as Jesus did--if we want to walk in the Spirit as the Apostle Paul admonishes us.

But did you realize that Father God is also pleased when we boast in Him? When we share how our faithful God is blessing us and impacting our lives, intervening as we appeal to Him in Jesus' Name, when we tell others about answered prayer--God is listening with a smile on His face. Sharing testimonies, telling how we see God as Awesome, sharing our wonder and delight in His Word are all things that delight the Lord's heart.

Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. Malachi 3:16-18

A Book of Remembrance--a record for all eternity. You are considered a jewel in the Lord's eyes as you speak His praises! How He delights in our delight in Him! I pray that each of us will spend more time expounding on the goodness of God, His wonderful provision and protection--and most of all His Glorious Magnificence. May His presence manifest more and more in our lives that we might multiply our magnification of Him!

Copyright © 2008 by Ruth Mayfield All rights reserved. These articles may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, by including this notice.

God's Love towards Us

2008-08-18T11:29:00.003-04:00

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us...

1 John 4:10

I realized today that I don't really know the love of God. I have not understood it, nor have I embraced it. I have been reluctant to receive the fullness He offers, and most horribly, I have not loved others with the love of God, as He would love have me love them. Thankfully the Father's love towards us (towards me) does not condemn my failure, nor my weakness. That's the whole point.

My version of love has been based on soulish, selfish gain. I loved to be loved--by my parents as a child and later by God. It didn't matter to me if my spouse, children or friends found me unlovable--I didn't care because I knew God loved me. I was willing to totally dedicate myself to pleasing God. Any sin or selfishness--weakness--in me was put under control of my spirit--submitted to the Holy Spirit. God's strength came through to overshadow my weakness with His strength--for His glory. I hate my weaknesses. I even encouraged others to trust God to overcome any weakness that might beset them. All good and scriptural, however: The wholeness and fullness of God's love fills our weakness without always necessarily removing it.

I recently heard Pastor Tom Smardz say, "God himself has a weakness, it is us." God loves us! This is in spite of our weaknesses, our ungodliness. While we were yet sinners, God loved us so much that He sent His son Jesus to die in our place so that we could be reconciled to a holy, righteous, and just God. I only need to accept Him for who He is--my Lord and my God. He loves us in an unconditional way beyond our comprehension. I am my Father's weakness--yet he accepts me and loves me, filling my weakness with His love, for His glory.

My own weakness is my husband's current illness. His illness has made him very different than the man I married--at least temporarily. Our changed lives, my responsibilities and my caring for him exhausts me so much that I feel I have no energy to be who God has called me to be. In fact my personality and character flaws are now brought out by him, instead of my gifts, talents--my best--as it once was, when we would minister together. I often abhor myself when my attitude and sharp tongue fall far short of God's love and mercy. I sometimes miss the opportunity to honor my husband--when he needs it most.

Yet, I am absolutely powerless to change--for the first time in my life I feel really powerless in this situation. I trust God, I have faith that He can do something to redeem the situation. However, I can only throw up my hands in further frustration, as I seem to sink lower instead of rising above my sin and weakness. My life has not been easy, I have often felt a bit like Job in the Bible. But for the first time in my life, I really feel as if I am sitting on an ash heap--scraping my hideous boils with a sharp rock--alone--with no one to really confide in. Friends encourage me pointing out my godly responses and basically perpetuating my hatred of my weakness--yet this weakness is the cross that I am to take up, to embrace, so that God can transform me and the situation.

Jesus took up His cross submitting to an unjust death, rejection and torture. In His submission the entire scenario transformed from what appeared to be Satan's greatest victory--into Satan's ultimate defeat. The cross is a heavy, back breaking burden--too much to bear. Yet we are told to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Denying yourself the little things in life prepares you to carry the cross the Lord has destined for you in your path towards Christ-likeness. Jesus' motivation was His love, that must be ours--to love as He loves. Pure and unquestioning love for God, trust and obedience, are indeed pleasing to God. However scripture states:

My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

2 Corinthians 12:9

His grace is His love gift that cannot be earned and is never deserved. This perfect(mature/complete) love fills to overflowing as we allow Him to fill our weakness that we might reflect His glory in the midst of any trial. He is worthy of our trust. He is worthy of our praise. Always...

Copyright © 2008 by Ruth Mayfield All rights reserved. These articles may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, by including this notice.