Obstacles

Charisma of Giving

This is not just about giving money, however it does not exclude it, either. The anointing of the giver is to meet the individual needs of the body. These believers are the hands of the body.

Strengths

Obstacles

Charisma of Administration

The Greek word used is “proistem”, which means “leader or superintendent”—the one who handles the business of the assembly. They are typically called church administrators today. These believers are the shoulders of the body.

Strengths

Obstacles

1 Corinthians 12:7-11

⁷“But the manifestation of the Ruach (Spirit) is given to each one for the profit of all: ⁸for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Ruach (Spirit), to another the word of knowledge through the same Ruach (Spirit), ⁹to another faith by the same Ruach (Spirit), to another gifts of healings by the same Ruach (Spirit), ¹⁰to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.

¹¹But one and the same Ruach (Spirit) works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.”   NKJV

The Time is now, but not Yet

Please keep in mind that you posses your own personal charisma, to enable you in your ministry and allow you to reach your destiny. However, this does not mean that you have become spiritually perfected in them. You spent all your life learning how to use these qualities in the world, and it will take some time to re-learn and discover how to use them for Yahweh’s kingdom. In other words, the time for your charisma is now, however, the fullness has not yet come. All too often there are needless, innocent casualties in the spiritual war because believers believe they are ready for ministry when they are not. They simply see themselves as mature while they are still young in spirit. This is a common trap of the enemy and many fall because of it. Ministry affects lives—that is its nature, and immature ministry devastates. A little knowledge is a deadly weapon. Remember, David was anointed king as a boy, however, he did not sit as king until he was a man. There is usually time for the learning curve between impartation and consecration. David’s time, like yours, is now, but not yet. It is imperative that you understand that your charisma is not about you, but rather the body. You are but one living stone to be built up in a spiritual house—the body of Messiah—as directed in 1 Peter 2:4-5, for the purpose of worship.

What makes you tick? Only you and the Father can answer that. However, I can tell you that you are special—divinely made for a destiny. It is one of Yahweh’s desires that you understand who you are in the kingdom, because until you do, you will never walk in your destiny. In other words, it is not about church, but rather finally being the true called out assembly. This, my friends, is the depth of obedience and fulfilling your destiny. Follow the three steps of discovery throughout this process:  1) pray and seek the Father, 2) examine your life, and 3) confirm your findings in the Scriptures. If you are an eagle, soar to the heights you are designed for, but if you are a grouse, conquer the lowlands. Do not try to be something you are not and don’t settle for traditional beliefs of man. Remember, your time is now, but not yet. Begin to master your charisma, so that in Yahweh’s time you may walk in fullness as mature sons and daughters of Yah.

Romans 8:19

”For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of Yahweh (God).”   NKJV

3

What Charisma is Not

 

1 John 4:1-6

¹“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of Yahweh; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. ²By this you know the Ruach (Spirit) of Yahweh: Every spirit that confesses that Yahshua haMaschiach has come in the flesh is of Yahweh (God), ³and every spirit that does not confess that Yahshua haMaschiach has come in the flesh is not of Yahweh. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world. ⁴You are of Yahweh, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. ⁵They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. ⁶We are of Yahweh. He who knows Yahweh hears us; he who is not of Yahweh does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.“   NKJV

As you continue in your journey to discover your personal spiritual charisma, it is important to understand what charisma is not. In other words, to fully understand what something is, we must first know what it is not.

Max Webber, a pioneer in sociology once stated, “since normalcy is so elusive, the only way a society can define it is by defining what is abnormal. Hence if a condition or behavior was not found to be abnormal, then by definition it must be considered normal”.

This is a much easier process since there is not a conclusive list of spiritual charisma. This is because they can be as specialized and are as numerous as there are individuals. Unfortunately, Max Webber’s view of normalcy is a standard throughout life. We are usually given many more examples of how not to be, than how to be in all phases of life. We can all quickly recall examples of how not to be a good parent, a good spouse or a good friend. So it is in our walks of faith. We can quickly recall examples of weak pastors and weak-hearted believers who have caused much trauma in the kingdom. Unfortunately, this has caused an epidemic of immature, double-minded believers within the body. This is not entirely a bad thing if we can learn from the lesson that it attempts to teach—the lesson that there is much more to our walk of faith than sitting in a pew and putting our dollar in the offering plate. Yet without mediocracy in the body, we would never be pushed to maturity. In other words, more often than not we learn how not to be by weak individuals such as immature shepherds, evangelists, prophets, etc., who are spiritually weak and immature  themselves. So it is with our charismas. Yahweh created us in His image according to Genesis 1:27. Psalm 139 tells us we are wonderfully and perfectly made. Unfortunately this is Satan’s realm, and therefore there are counterfeits and misinterpretations. This is why it is imperative that we know what they are, especially in this current hour.

Charisma is not a Present

When we think of presents, the idea that immediately rushes into our minds is the type of presents that we have received during holidays, birthdays and anniversaries. Typically these presents are items we have asked for and are given in gratitude. All too often, these are the images that come to mind when we think, or hear, about spiritual gifts. This is a completely false understanding, especially in the context of 1 Corinthians 12.

As we defined in Chapter 1, charisma is a miraculous faculty and part of the description of a spiritual brother or sister. Yahweh does not “give” presents to you out of gratitude because you are such a “good” person. In reality, Yahshua states there is only One who is good, (and it is not us) in Matthew 19:17:  So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, Yahweh. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” In addition, the prophet Isaiah describes our righteousness in Isaiah 64:6:  “But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away”. Ask yourself, “Why would Yahweh be grateful because I am not good and therefore unclean? Why would He reward me for being so?” The answer is:  He isn’t, and He won’t. That mindset is a perversion of blessings. Blessings, as defined in Scripture, particularly Deuteronomy Chapter 28, are the natural effect of and obedient relationship with Yahweh. In other words, the descriptions of blessings in Scripture describes how your life should be, and the infiltration of chaos and judgment should be the exception. Yet today many times we describe our life as chaotic, with intermittent stretches of blessings. This is totally upside down from what Scripture depicts. Due to this view, we see blessings as gifts from Yahweh, and thus they are seen as the exception instead of the norm.

Charisma is not Talent

The confusion of talents and charisma has long plagued the mindset of the body of the Messiah. This perhaps is due to the fact that the definitions of each are very closely related, combined with the fact that sometimes what once was considered a talent prior to salvation or baptism of the Holy Spirit may actually be a part of your charisma instead. Whatever the case, confusion is high on this subject. If you refer to Webster for enlightenment, the confusion may be elevated, as even in the definition of these two concepts, there is much confusion. Simply put, a talent is a natural ability. Charisma, on the other hand, is of divine design. Yet talents are often symptomatic of your charisma.

For example:  Joe Bob may be a very talented musician and able to play a wide variety of instruments. After his salvation, Joe Bob discovers praise. His experience of praise is the most natural and satisfying experience he has ever had. His charisma is praise, as that is what he was designed for, but his talent is the ability to play musical instruments.

Everyone has talents—believers and pre-believers alike. However, it is the spiritual brethren that discover how their talents enhance their charisma for the kingdom of Yahweh. Remember, 1 Corinthians 12 is not a discourse on spiritual gifts per se, but rather a discourse on the characteristics that describe spiritual brethren. An easy way to keep the concept of charisma and talents straight is to think of a car as charisma, and the tires as talents. A car without tires is still a car, just not very functional. However tires by themselves are of no use, but when combined with the car, the usability is enhanced.

Charisma is not Fruit of the Ruach (Spirit)

The fruit of the Ruach is the normal, expected outcome of a believer’s growth, maturity, holiness, Messiah-likeness and fullness of the Ruach haKodesh (Holy Spirit). Because we all have the responsibility of growing in our faith, all have the responsibility of developing the fruit of the Ruach in our lives. Fruit is not discovered (as are our charismas), it is developed through our relationship with Yahweh and through our ability to yield to the Ruach haKodesh, or rather our ability to die to self. Charisma defines what a believer does. Fruit of the Ruach defines what a believer is. In other words, fruit is the response of charisma. Fruit therefore is the proof or evidence of one’s charisma. Plainly put, charisma without fruit is worthless.

A good example of this is the church in Corinth. They were one of the most problematic assemblies Paul wrote to, however, they moved in their “gifting” according to 1 Corinthians 1:7. So what was the problem? The problem was they did not manifest the fruits of the Ruach. That is why Paul wrote 1 Corinthians 13 with such detail. It is important to note that this pattern is seen throughout the New Testament. A passage on fruit always accompanies the primary passages on “gifts”, or charisma.

For example:  1 Corinthians 13 follows 1 Corinthians 12; Romans 12:8 is immediately followed by “let love be without hypocrisy,” and “be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love” (verses 9 and 10). In Ephesians 4, the “gift” passage ends with verse 16, and the fruit passage picks up in verse 17 and runs through the next chapter.

Charisma is not Roles

Roles differ from charisma in that they are task oriented, which may not have anything to do with divine design. A simple analogy of this is the butter knife. One day, I had to work on an electrical outlet in my house. As I started the project, I realized that all of my flat blade screwdrivers had undoubtedly become digging instruments for our young boys and were no longer available. After a moment of bewilderment, I realized that in the kitchen, in the silverware drawer, there were many make shift screwdrivers at my disposal. I grabbed a butter knife and completed my task. The butter knife was not designed to be a screwdriver, but out of necessity that was its role that day.

We experience this every time we have grabbed a shoe to drive a nail, a butter knife to loosen a screw or a paper towel to use as a coffee filter. So it is with our roles in the kingdom. You may find yourself performing tasks that are not necessarily designed for your charisma, and that’s okay. Your charisma may be that of the apostle, but your current role is that of shepherd. Or your charisma may be teacher, yet you are the church secretary. Your charisma may be shepherd, yet you are the janitor, bus driver, etc. This doesn’t mean your charisma has changed, but rather you have a particular role to fill a current need. Remember, walking in the kingdom of Yahweh is a team activity and everything is your role.

Charisma is not Definition of your Salvation

Too many times I hear believers say, “This is what the kingdom is all about. This is what it’s like to be saved,” and I am grieved. I’m grieved because they have defined their salvation, as well as Yah’s kingdom, by their own life. This is a lie straight out of the pit to enslave you. Neither your salvation nor the kingdom of Yahweh is about you. It is all about Yahshua and the sovereignty of the Father—period. Anything else opens the doorway of pride and ego. We are to clothe ourselves with the Messiah, not self, and walk in the Father’s ways, not our own. Your charisma is not even about you, even though it gives you definition. Your charisma is the way that you were designed and is all about the Father’s plan. It may be your destiny, but it is still His plan and His kingdom. Simply stated, charisma is not something you possess, but rather something that is expressed throughout your life in the context of your relationship with the Father. For clarity, let’s break down the Greek word “charismata”.

Charis Grace

ma endowments

ta flowing

In other words, charismata is a continuous flowing of endowments designed through grace throughout your journey of life, according to the Father’s divine plan. Your ability to let the endowments flow, as designed within the realm of spiritual authority, is what defines you as a spiritual brother or sister. It is not yours to hold onto, or to define your salvation, or even to define who you are in the kingdom. Only Yahshua can do that, as He is our only definition. Anything else is deception.

Beware of the Counterfeit

We are spiritual beings to be sure; however, spiritual beings are not limited to the Father’s kingdom. The unfortunate truth is that there are spiritual forces of evil as well, just as Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:12:  ¹²“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Even though our adversary has been defeated and has no creative power, he still is able to cause chaos in the ranks of the believers. One way of doing this is by raising up false prophets and counterfeits. Yahshua Himself stated this in Matthew 24:24:  “For false messiahs (christs) and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.“ A good example of this is the counterfeit manifestations of Pharaoh’s magicians in response to what Yahweh was doing through Moses.

For as many different charismas as the Father has designed, I believe the evil one has a counterfeit, and many unknowing, spiritually young believers are sifted. I experienced this first hand with a new convert I was discipling. After a few months of study, this individual believed that Yahweh began to speak to him. Initially, I was not alarmed as the Father does speak to His people, in many different ways. Yet the alarm was sounded when the context was revealed. In this case, the subject matter was contrary to Torah and therefore to the redemption message of the Messiah as well. These counterfeit words of knowledge revealed pagan sun god worship of Nimrod, Samuramis, and Tammuz to this individual. Because he could not discern the voice of the adversary from the voice of Yahweh, he believed that these were words from the Father, revealing deep, spiritual meaning and understanding from the Scriptures that no one else had.

Eventually, ego and pride was manifested, and he would not listen to the truth and my many warnings, which ultimately led to this individual’s self inflicted sifting and dislocation from the body. Currently, this individual is incarcerated in a county jail. Even though I knew these prophetic words of knowledge were counterfeit, there was nothing I could do, because he believed them to be true. That is how counterfeits work. They look good, sound good, and may even feel good, but in the end there is only destruction. So I say to you:  test the spirits, be wise and don’t be fooled. Remember, “all that glitters is not gold”, and if you are not careful, you’ll be sifted.

How do we tell what is real and what is counterfeit? Simple, just as Yahshua directed us in 1 John 4:2-3. “²By this you know the Ruach (Spirit) of Yahweh (God): Every spirit that confesses that Yahshua haMaschiach (Jesus Christ) has come in the flesh is of Yahweh, ³and every spirit that does not confess that Yahshua haMaschiach has come in the flesh is not of Yahweh. And this is the spirit of the anti-messiah (antichrist), which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.” Beware, because the spirit of the anti-messiah is already upon the body and they don’t even know it!

Most often, as we begin our ministries and discover our charisma, we have stars in our eyes. Being innocent and young in spirit, we are easy prey for the evil one. Do not be fooled. Understanding how you are designed is important, but understanding how you are not designed is paramount. Yahshua told us that He was “sending us out as sheep among wolves” in Matthew 10:16 and He gave important instructions as well. He said we are to “be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”

Matthew 10:16

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”

In other words, know your adversary, be aware of his tactics.

Robert Tuttle once said, “Satan is on a tether. If, however, we slip within reach or range of his tether by yielding to temptation, or lack of understanding, he’ll have us for breakfast.”

In order to stay out of the reach of Satan, we must know who we are, and exactly who we are not.

4

Members One to Another

 

1 Corinthians 12:4-7

⁴There are diversities of gifts, but the same Ruach. ⁵There are differences of ministries, but the same Master. ⁶And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same Elohim who works all in all. ⁷But the manifestation of the Ruach is given to each one for the profit (of all).   NKJV

 

Profit—Greek word “sumphero” (soom-fer’-o) NT4851; from NT4862 and NT5342 (including its alternate); to bear together (contribute), i.e., (literally) to collect, or (figuratively) to conduce; especially (neuter participle as a noun) advantage. In the King James version, it was translated as “be better for”, “bring together”, “be expedient (for)”, “be good”, “(be) profit (-able for)”.

(Biblesoft New Exhaustive Strong’s Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright (c) 1994, Biblesoft and International Bible Translators, Inc.)

What is the purpose of a chain? Chains are vital tools, and are used in a variety of applications. Chains are stronger than straps or ropes, yet are not in themselves one solid piece, but rather many links. Each link in and of itself will never accomplish anything. One link cannot hold heavy equipment, nor can it be used to pull equipment from the mud. A chain is a useful device only because of the pieces that comprise its length. Individually, our lives are merely a link. Separate, we are weak, yet together we form a functional kingdom chain, with Yahshua as the master link.

Another way to view this concept is through Yahshua’s teaching of the vine and the branches in John 15.

John 15:4-6

⁴“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. ⁵I am the vine, you (are) the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”   NKJV

How do we abide in Yahshua? We abide in Him by following His ways according to 1 John 2:5-6.

1 John 2:5-6

⁵But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of Yahweh is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. ⁶He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.   NKJV

If we abide in Messiah, then we will become members one of the other according to Romans 12:5, and become a chain useful for the Father’s purposes.

The Purpose

Psalm 139 tells us that we are “perfectly and wonderfully made”. Father knew us before we had form in the womb. He created us individually for a purpose and a destiny. How then can we be members “one of the other” if we are individuals? At first glance, this truth seems to be a paradox, yet in it is also the answer. Let me explain. Father created us individually, with individual charismas. Even though these charismas are individual, and inadvertently used individually, their greater use is achieved corporately. In other words, our charismas are designed to be the substance that unites the links together to form the chain. The application of this is seen in 1 Corinthians 12:7.

1 Corinthians 12:7

⁷But the manifestation of the Ruach is given to each one for the profit (of all).

Clearly this verse states that charismas are given individually, and they are given for a reason. The question here is, “What is that reason?” Let’s investigate. In our English translations of the scriptures, the words “of all” have been added, which leaves the end of the verse with the word “profit”. The Greek word used here translated as “profit” is “sumphero” (soom-fer’-o). “Sumphero” is defined as “to bear together (contribute)”, i.e, (literally) “to collect”, or (figuratively) “to conduce”; especially (neuter participle as a noun) “to have advantage”. In other words, a more precise translation of verse 7 is:

⁷But the manifestation of the Ruach is given to each one for the (collection, the bearing together, the advantage).

With these definitions the corporate Kingdom structure begins to come to light. Instead of using our charismas as individuals, we need to begin to use them as a tool to help unite the body of the Messiah. That’s how we have the advantage. I believe as the body, we are all tools of Yahweh in the Earth. The task before us will take all the tools in the tool box. Alone we are merely a socket, or a ratchet, or a wrench, yet together as the body of  Messiah, we are a complete tool set, equipped and ready for the task. Together we are functional.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

¹²Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.   NKJV

For too long, the body of Messiah has been disjointed and not fully functional. We have long known the tactics of warfare, to divide and conquer, however when it comes to the spiritual battles of our lives, believers have been corporately unable to recognize this same principle. Think about it for a moment. If the body of Messiah really came together in unity, just as Yahshua prayed in John 17, then there would be no room for the Jezebel spirit to work. There would never be a church split. There would be no segmentation of denominations, doctrines or belief systems within the body. There would only be one kingdom — the Kingdom of Yahweh.

There is only one truth, and it is this truth that sets us free. Yahshua stated that He is that truth. While we profess this to be true, we fail to walk it out as the body. Notice Yahshua didn’t say the church will set you free, nor did He say that the church was the truth, yet sadly it is this perception that many walk out. As there is only one truth, there is also only one true called out assembly, one ekklesia (ek-klay-see’-ah), one church, of which we are all pieces or links. Yet through the wisdom of man, we have allowed it to be segmented and disjointed by our rationalizations. It is time that we come together as believers, lay aside our differences, and use our charisma to unite us, remembering the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13.

1 Corinthians 12:12-13

¹²For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Messiah (Christ). ¹³For by one Ruach (Spirit) we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Ruach.   NKJV

 

5

Stir Up the Fire

 

2 Timothy 1:3-9

³I thank Yahweh (God), whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did, as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day, ⁴greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy, ⁵when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also. ⁶Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of Yahweh which is in you through the laying on of my hands. ⁷For Yahweh has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. ⁸Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Master, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of Yahweh, ⁹who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Messiah Yahshua (Christ Jesus) before time began.   NKJV

The biggest weapon formed against the believer and the ekklesia (Greek word NT 1577, defined as “the called out assembly”, and translated as “church”) is fear—the fear of failure, of judgment, of doing it wrong, and of what people might think or say. Perhaps you did step out on faith in obedience to the Ruach (Spirit), and a weak brother or sister didn’t recognize what you were doing and they made a harsh comment, or even laughed.

What happened then? More than likely, it not only stopped the flow of the Ruach in you, it also gave your flesh man the justification he needed to never step out in faith again. What you have just experienced is persecution. We develop conditional responses to persecution, which are usually rooted in some type of fear. The operation of fear is to cut away and divide. Secularly, it is seen as the basis of the “fight or flight” syndrome we all have. Most often, the response is flight, and we become offended and separated. One of the best analogies of how separation destroys us is the parable of the coal.

An old man and a young man who was seeking his own way were sitting by the fire on a cool night. As they warmed themselves by the fire, the course of their discussion led to the subject of Yahweh’s fire that He kindles within each of us—the drive and the empowerment of the Ruach. As he talked, the old man gently nudged a red hot coal from the midst of the fire with the toe of his boot. As the discussion drew on, the coal remained by itself. The young man finally asked, “Why do I need to be connected and accountable? Why do I need anyone besides Yahweh?” In his wisdom, the old man picked up the coal, now dark and cold, and handed it to the young man. He said to him, “The answer is in the coal.” The young man realized that this same coal, now dark and cold, was once red hot and glowed with light while it was among the other coals. It had no light of its own. It only reflected the light of the fire. The young man dropped the dark coal back into the fire and watched with amazement as it immediately started to glow once again.

How Fear Works

Fear is the element that engages pride, and pride brings offense to life. Offense brings division, and division leads to death. This is clearly seen in Cain and Abel’s relationship in Genesis Chapter 4.

Genesis 4:3-8

³And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an offering of the fruit of the ground to Yahweh (the LORD). ⁴Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat. And Yahweh respected Abel and his offering, ⁵but He did not respect Cain and his offering. And Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell. ⁶So Yahweh said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? ⁷If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.” ⁸Now Cain talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.   NKJV

Let’s replay this scenario in today’s terms so we can understand fully. Two sacrifices were brought before Yahweh. Abel’s was accepted and Cain’s was not. What happened next? The fear of rejection and of not fitting in began to set in on Cain. What would his parents think? What would Abel think? Cain most likely thought, “Abel will now think he is better than I am, because his sacrifice was accepted.” Pride was beginning to rise up in Cain. Yahweh warned Cain of the sin that was waiting at his door in verse 7. What was Cain’s response? He didn’t heed the Father’s warning, and pride led to offense. Cain became offended through the justification of pride that his sacrifice was not accepted. He failed to see that his sacrifice was not accepted because it was out of order—not because of him personally. In short, Cain was  offended and blinded by pride. All he could see was himself. In verse 8, the offense of Cain gave way to separation from the Father with the murder of his brother.

What should have happened? Cain should have overcome the fear and learned from the instruction of Yahweh. Why did it even matter that Abel’s sacrifice was accepted? Why did it matter what anyone thought? Fear!

Does this same scenario happen today? Absolutely. As an example, let’s say you visited another congregation and the Ruach haKodesh (Holy Spirit) gave you a word because of your prophetic charisma. You found the spiritual authority (pastor, etc.) of the congregation and told them that you had a prophetic word for this local assembly. The next thing that happened was unbelievable. You were rebuked by the shepherd in front of the congregation. He told you that prophetic words died in the first century. Before you could regroup from the attack, you were escorted from the building. What would be your response?

More than likely, you would experience the same feelings that Cain did. The fear of rejection would hit you the moment the shepherd’s rebuke came. Pride would start to well up as you were being escorted out. By the time you got to the door, pride had blinded you to the point that you received the attack personally, and you were offended. Murder rose up within you as you slayed your charisma and decided, “If this is the response I get, I’m never going to speak out again!” Perhaps you might even have decided, “I’m never going back to church as long as I live!” Is that Father’s will? Not at all. It was the result of your woundedness, and soon your coal would grow dark and cold. Left unattended, this response can develop into an epidemic.

Stirring the Fire

Have you ever sat around a campfire as the fire begins to burn out? The coals begin to die, and the fire gives out very little light and warmth. Perhaps you place another log or two on the coals, but not much happens. Every now and then a small flicker of flame appears, but nothing substantial and nothing spectacular. What do you do? That’s right—you stir the fire. Soon the logs burst into flames, and the light and warmth you once enjoyed are restored as the coals begin to come to life and glow once again.

The Scriptures often refer to the Ruach haKodesh (Holy Spirit) with descriptions of fire. Of the 544 references to fire in the New King James Version, most describe an activity of the Ruach. (For example:  the burning bush in Exodus 3:2, the pillar of fire in Exodus 14:24, fire on the altar in Leviticus 6:12, baptized with fire in Luke 3:16, fire sent upon earth in Luke 12:49, and revelation by fire in 1 Corinthians 3:13.) With this being the case, in the parable of the coal, I see the campfire as the Ruach and the coals as our charismas. Our charisma has no light of its own. Its only light is that of the Ruach. Left by itself, unused it will grow dark and cold. Notice that the coal is only useful in the context of the fire. Apart from it, the coal is dead. In other words, the fire was not made for the coal, but rather the coal is made for the fire. That’s order—Father’s order.

The question now is, “How is the fire stirred?” I believe that the stirring depends upon two things:  1) Relationship, and 2) Your will.

Relationship with Yahweh is a necessity to everything else in our walk. Yahshua gave this teaching in the following passage:

John 15:1-8

¹“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. ²Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. ³You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. ⁴Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. ⁵I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. ⁶If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. ⁷If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. ⁸By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.   NKJV

In verse 4, Yahshua states, “…As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” In today’s terminology, Yahshua is saying, “Nothing is done outside of relationship with Me.” In other words, left to ourselves, we are just a lump of coal. However, when placed in correct relationship to the fire, we are much more than an ordinary coal. We become red hot. Therefore, the first step is getting the relationship right. This means preparing your heart to seek the Father’s ways (the Truth), being accountable to the delegated spiritual authorities of Yahweh, and walking it out, just as Yahshua walked.

1 John 2:3-6

³Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. ⁴He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. ⁵But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of Yahweh (God) is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. ⁶He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.   NKJV

Sadly, this step is often bypassed by believers today because we live in a society of immediate gratification. In other words, we want the paycheck without doing the work, which is completely out of order. One thing that I have learned is that Yahweh is the Elohim of order, and nothing happens out of order. If you are feeling unconnected, or like the embers are fading, check your relationship. Most often, this will correct the issue.

The second part is by an act of your will—your faith. Your faith is a conscious decision that you make to rely on Yahweh and His understanding instead of your own. It is an act of your will—a choice you make. You must exercise your faith to overcome the fear. In 2 Timothy 1:7 we find that Yahweh did not give us a spirit of fear. So why are we motivated by it? Because fear is a tool of the enemy to control and manipulate us. For example, terrorism is a manipulation tactic. We are manipulated by terrorism through fear to do things we normally would not do. If the fear of death or injury was gone, then we could not be manipulated, and terrorism would cease to exist.

The same principle applies to the spiritual realm. The enemy manipulates us through the fear of mankind. Because of that fear, we do things contrary to the way Yahweh created us. Our enemy uses fear as a device to keep us from being obedient, and therefore in bondage. It is imperative that we be overcomers and conquer fear.

When we make the choice to overcome, we come to remembrance of the mighty works the Father has done in the course of our journey. This in turn rekindles our faith and stirs up our charismas, just as Shaul (Paul) wrote to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:6. In this verse, Shaul (Paul) tells Timothy that it is his responsibility to stir up the charismas that are within him. The Greek word translated as “stir” is “anazopureo”, which means “to rekindle or arouse from dormancy”. In addition, in 1 Timothy 4:14, Shaul (Paul) directs Timothy, “Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you…” In other words, it was up to Timothy to stir up and not neglect his charisma. The same directive is given to us today, but it is up to you—it’s your choice.

Just as the coal is rekindled when placed in correct relationship with the fire, we need to examine our relationship with Yahweh and be willing to have correction brought to us where we are out of alignment. After the foundation of correct relationship is established, we will have the ability to overcome our fears and thus stir the fire of Yahweh that is in all of us. For too long the body of Messiah has lain dormant, and it is time that the sons of Yah arise and walk in the authority that we are created with. We must no longer be prisoners of fear, religion or this world. It is time to remember who we are, overcome, and stir up the fire.

6

Grow Up and Be Somebody

 

Hebrews 5:12-14

¹²For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of Yahweh (God); and you have come to need milk and not solid food. ¹³For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. ¹⁴But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.   NKJV

One of the facts we learn as we grow up in this world is that the first time we attempt something new, we will most likely not be an expert at it. Everything takes practice. The first time I rode a horse, I was not the Lone Ranger, and the first time I went camping in the woods, I was not Grizzly Adams. All these require two things:  knowledge and technique.

Only one thing develops technique, and that is practice. Your spiritual charismas are no different. The first step is to understand what your charismas are—“what makes you tick”. Now it is time for you to begin to develop your technique. Remember, no one can be fully activated in their spiritual charismas on a one-time basis and expect to see a full flow and mature manifestation.

One of the skills needed for spiritual maturity and the mature handling of your charisma is discernment. Discernment develops with the use of your charisma. Hebrews 5:14 states that those who have their senses (charismas) exercised “by reason of use” will be able to discern “both good and evil”.

Malachi 3:18

¹⁸Then you shall again discern between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves Yahweh and one who does not serve Him.   NKJV

Our ability to exercise not only our spiritual charismas, but also our spiritual discernment, will determine the fullness with which we reach our destiny. As a believer learns to operate in their spiritual charismas, they will cultivate their own spiritual discernment which will be an integral part of ruling and reigning with our Messiah (Revelation 5:10, 20:6, 22:5; 2 Timothy 2:12).

However, care needs to be taken to ensure order, because we serve the Elohim of Order, and nothing that comes from Him happens out of order. This is why it is imperative that we flow with Yahweh’s delegated authority. If you are having problems flowing in your charisma, it is probably a submission issue—submission to either Yahweh, or to one of His delegated authorities that He has placed with you. In short, if you have a submission problem with a delegated spiritual authority, it is impossible for you to be fully submitted to Yahweh.

It’s Your Responsibility—Own It

One of the underlying problems within the body of the Messiah is ownership. That is the whole idea of dominion. The definition of dominion is absolute ownership. Therefore, if we have dominion over creation as stated in Genesis 1:26-27, that means it is ours. It belongs to us, and we have authority over it. In addition, because we have dominion over creation, we are required to nurture it, take care of it and be good stewards of it. The same principle applies to our spiritual charismas. We have dominion over our charismas. They belong to us. We have a responsibility to use them for the furthering of Yahweh’s Kingdom—to be good stewards with them. In the following passage, Yahshua tells a parable to emphasize the importance of our responsibility to use what the Master imparts.

Matthew 25:14-30

¹⁴“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. ¹⁵And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. ¹⁶Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. ¹⁷And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. ¹⁸But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money. ¹⁹After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them. ²⁰So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ ²¹His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ ²²He also who had received two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.’ ²³His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ ²⁴Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. ²⁵And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ ²⁶But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. ²⁷So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. ²⁸Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. ²⁹For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. ³⁰And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’”   NKJV

Now let’s break it down. In this parable, a man traveling into a far country (Yahshua) called his servants (the saints) and gave to them his goods, which are symbolic of the Ruach haKodesh and their charismas. As the parable goes, the master’s servants were given talents according to their abilities, according to grace. One servant was given five talents, another two and the last is given one talent. The parable reveals that the first two servants used what they had been given, thereby doubling their talents (verses 16 and 17). They both received a commendation from their master, who stated, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things.”

As for the servant who hid his talents, or rather the one who didn’t take ownership of them (verses 24-30), he is rebuked by the master as he announced, “²⁶You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. ²⁷So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. ²⁸Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents. ²⁹For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. ³⁰And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

What kept this servant from taking ownership of his talents? What caused him to be labeled as “wicked”? It was and still is fear (verse 25). Fear of what? Fear of doing the wrong thing? Fear of making the wrong decision? Fear of man? What is it that keeps you from taking ownership in what your Master has given you? This servant’s sin was never taking ownership of what was given to him, all because of fear. Notice what he told the master in verse 25. The servant calls it “your talent”, implying that ownership was never taken.

This is still the major problem in the body of the Messiah today. We are still reluctant to exercise and use the talents (charismas) given to us, which will cause us to experience the same discipline the unfaithful servant received. Remember, Yahweh is the same today, yesterday and tomorrow. If not taking ownership caused discipline 2000 years ago, it still causes discipline today.

This parable concludes with the unprofitable, unfaithful servant forfeiting his original one talent to the servant who used his ability and stewardship to increase the talents from five to ten. Verse 29 states, “For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.” In verse 30, discipline is carried out as the unfaithful servant is removed from the protection and covering of his master. While this may seem a little harsh, it is completely in order. This servant was removed from the master’s covering to bring him to repentance, and to give him the incentive to overcome his fear, so that next time he will take ownership. The bottom line here is that we are commanded by scripture to be a people who are responsible for the stewardship of gifts and charismas that have been given to us by our Master. Just as this parable relates, if we take ownership of and use the charisma that Yahweh has given us, we can expect the increase in ability, wisdom and grace. However, if we fail to step out in faith and fail to take ownership and therefore fail to use that which is given to us, then we run the risk of relinquishing the authority and anointing of our charismas to those who display willingness and good stewardship.

So how do we overcome our fear, take ownership and begin to grow up? We overcome fear through experiential knowledge of the truth. Once we gain experiential knowledge of the truth, we can then apply it when we are faced with new situations.

Following these four steps, we can gain the experiential knowledge of truth needed to become the tools the Father created us to be.

1.  Scriptural teaching is presented to dispel the student’s ignorance about their charisma. (1 Corinthians 12:1)

2.  Upon hearing the truth, the student begins to believe the Word of Yahweh. (Romans 10:17)

3.  Once the student believes, the Word begins to become personal to them as a member of the body of Messiah. (1 Corinthians 12:27)

4. Faith arises, and the student steps out and begins to yield to their charisma, remembering that faith without works is dead. (James 2:17)

Problems that Arise with our Charisma

The ownership of our charisma has one major conflict with our flesh—that of responsibility. Responsibility is a paradox for many people. While on one hand they profess they want responsibility, on the other hand they don’t want it when they get it, so they neglect it. Neglect is the first of the two problems ownership brings. In 1 Timothy 4:14, Shaul (Paul) writes to Timothy and instructs him to “not neglect the charisma (gift) that is in you.”

1 Timothy 4:14

¹⁴Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.   NKJV

This is a spiritual command of scripture which is not only given to Timothy, but rather to all believers. We must not take lightly or disregard the charisma that was given to us. Hebrews 2:3-4 gives us a severe warning regarding neglecting Yahweh’s gifts.  Yahshua realized that His followers would need supernatural manifestations and charismas of the Ruach haKodesh (Holy Spirit) in order to be all that they needed to be. Therefore, we are given commands and warnings in scripture to not neglect what has been entrusted to us.

The problem with neglect is while it doesn’t outright deny ownership, it does prevent us from experiencing the benefits of it. This in turn makes us apathetic or lukewarm, no longer having the fire that drives us. Unfortunately, this state of being lukewarm or apathetic is descriptive of exactly where the body of the Messiah is in our current hour, as detailed as the last of seven ages in Revelation.

Revelation 3:15-17

¹⁵“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. ¹⁶So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. ¹⁷Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.”   NKJV

In His declaration, Yahshua gives us a stern warning against neglect. He states that this condition will cause us to be spewed from His mouth. In addition, in verse 17 Yahshua gives us the cause of this condition of apathy. Why is it that we don’t want responsibility and we neglect ownership? Because we have a core belief that we don’t need it. We have become comfortable. We think to ourselves, “If I don’t do it, someone will. It doesn’t have to be me.” This is exactly what Yahshua states in verse 17:  “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.” We have become so in need, but because of apathy we don’t even know it, fulfilling Isaiah 43:19.

Isaiah 43:19

¹⁹Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.    NKJV

The second spiritual issue is that of despising that which we do not understand. In 1 Thessalonians 5:14-20, Shaul (Paul) directs the assembly of Thessalonica to not despise prophecy.

1 Thessalonians 5:14-20

¹⁴Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. ¹⁵See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. ¹⁶Rejoice always, ¹⁷pray without ceasing, ¹⁸in everything give thanks; for this is the will of Yahweh in Messiah Yahshua (God in Christ Jesus) for you. ¹⁹Do not quench the Spirit. ²⁰Do not despise prophecies.   NKJV

Despising what we do not understand causes the Ruach to be quenched. Obviously the assembly in Thessalonica had the same issue that the body does today—that of quenching the Ruach. The common thought appears to be, “Since we don’t need it and we can’t understand it, therefore it isn’t real.”

It is a documented fact that there are more instances of divine healing in third world countries than there are in the U.S. Why? Because they have a greater need. The simple truth is that we have replaced divine healing with doctors and prescriptions. In short, if prayer doesn’t work, we simply go to the doctor. So the Ruach is then quenched, and the healing doesn’t happen. What happens when there are no more doctors and no more prescriptions? Be very careful of what you despise and point the finger at—it could be the very thing you need to set you free!

The Greek word for despise is “exouthenoe”, which means “to make utterly nothing of”. In other words, the believers in Thessalonica, like many believers today, did not give their spiritual charismas (especially the prophetic charisma) their proper place and order. We don’t give our spiritual charismas the proper recognition, therefore making them utterly useless. In short, we despise them. The latter writings (New Testament Scripture) command us to grant the charisma and gifts of the Ruach their proper place of importance in our lives. The only thing that scripture speaks of more than our charismas and gifts is love. Therefore, it should be obvious why we need to take them seriously.

During my college days, my father, in his frustration with my GPA, once told me, “Boy, you beat all I ever saw. I send you to school and buy you books, and what do you do with them?” From my GPA, it was obvious that I did not use my books correctly. Now that I’m in ministry, I wonder if this is the way our heavenly Father feels about us. After all, He created us in His image, gave us dominion over creation, and redeemed us back to that authority when we had given it away. What do we do with the authority He has given us? Not what we should. All too often, we fail to take ownership. If we do by chance begin to “own” it, it is not long before we begin to neglect our authority, or just outright make it utterly useless. We then go whining back to our Father because life is just too hard. It’s time we stopped our whining and grow up and be somebody—that somebody we were created to be. You already have everything it takes. You simply need to do it.

7

Activation

All of this study has led to this point—activation, which brings us to a very important point—authority. Man does not have the authority to activate spiritual charisma in the life of believers; only Yahweh does. However, Yahweh does establish His delegated authorities in the earth not as their own authority, but rather as a representative of Yahweh’s Authority. They are delegated by Yahweh, not man, for purposes such as this. In other words, rituals such as graduation, licensing and ordination do not necessarily reflect true activation of your charismas, as many have become accustomed to in this age. Remember, Yahweh does not need a ceremony to bring about His purpose in the earth.

According to 1 Timothy 4:14 and 2 Timothy 1:6, Shaul (Paul) reflects on Timothy’s activation by prophecy and laying on of hands by Yahweh’s delegated authorities.

Upon completion of this series, I suggest you consult with one of Yahweh’s delegated authorities in your life for your activation. Don’t let fear overcome you, take dominion and step out.

1 Timothy 4:14

¹⁴Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.   NKJV

2 Timothy 1:6

⁶Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of Yahweh (God) which is in you through the laying on of my hands.   NKJV

Appendix A

Constantine's Christian Creed

 

I RENOUNCE ALL CUSTOMS, RITES LEGALISMS, UNLEAVENED BREAD AND SACRIFICES OF LAMBS OF THE HEBREWS, AND ALL OTHER FEASTS OF THE HEBREWS, SACRIFICES, PRAYERS, ASPIRATIONS, PURIFICATIONS, SANCTIFICATIONS, AND PROPITIATIONS AND FASTS AND NEW MOONS, AND SABBATHS, AND SUPERSTITIONS AND HYMNS AND CHANTS, AND OBSERVANCES AND SYNAGOGUES, AND THE FOOD AND DRINK OF THE HEBREWS; IN ONE WORD I RENOUNCE ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING JEWISH, EVERY LAW, RITE AND CUSTOM...AND IF AFTERWARDS I SHALL WISH TO DENY AND RETURN TO JEWISH SUPERSTITION, OR SHALL BE FOUND EATING WITH JEWS, OR FEASTING WITH THEM, OR SECRETLY CONVERSING AND CONDEMNING THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION INSTEAD OF OPENLY CONFUTING THEM AND CONDEMNING THEIR VAIN FAITH, THEN LET THE TREMBLING OF CAIN AND LEPROSY OF GEHAZI CLEAVE TO ME, AS WELL AS THE LEGAL PUNISHMENTS TO WHICH I ACKNOWLEDGE MYSELF LIABLE. AND MAY I BE ANATHEMA IN THE WORLD TO COME, AND MY SOUL BE SET DOWN WITH SATAN AND THE DEVILS” FURTHERMORE, I ACCEPT ALL PRAYERS, PURIFICATIONS WITH WATER, SANCTIFICATIONS BY THE PONTIFICUS MAXMUS, PROPITIATIONS AND FEASTS, AND THE NEW SABBATH “SOL DEI” (DAY OF THE SUN), ALL NEW CHANTS AND OBSERVANCES, AND ALL THE FOODS AND DRINKS OF THE ROMANS. IN OTHER WORDS, I ABSOLUTELY ACCEPT EVERYTHING ROMAN, EVERY NEW LAW, RITE AND CUSTOMS, OF ROME, AND THE NEW ROMAN RELIGION.