On June 18, 2004, Jo wrote from 2:Chr. 19:2 and Col. 4:5,6, the following: "By helping that wicked man Ahab, you have made friends with someone who hates the Lord. Now the Lord God is angry with you....When you are with unbelievers, always make good use of the time. Be pleasant and hold their interest when you speak the Message. Choose your words carefully and be ready to answer anyone who asks questions."
"What a difference Jesus has made in the true revelation of God! The Old Testament reveals the part of God which becomes angry over man's association with the wicked, knowing that humans are weak and will try to imitate someone stronger, ie. the wicked. The New Testament encourages a care-filled relationship with non-believers. Why? Because Jesus strengthens us with the power of the Holy Spirit, God's Spirit, to not conform to wickedness, but having aligned ourselves with God, He allows us to reveal Himself through us. Those strangers who do not know Christ, just may see Him through us by the power of the Holy Spirit! God no longer has anger toward us, but gratitude, for our willingness to be part of the process God began in the suffering, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
"God, help me to be a willing vessel to those who do not believe, that they might meet in me your Holy Spirit "head-on" and "heart-filled." Amen"
And I pray this prayer for you as well, that you might meet the Holy Spirit head-on and heart filled!
Jo INMN
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