The Wrong Side

Dear Friends and Fellow Seekers of Truth,

I hope this letter finds you in peace and good health. Today, I want to share a reflection on the choices we make when we find ourselves not hearing from God. This story from the lives of David and Saul illustrates the difference between seeking God’s guidance faithfully and turning to the wrong sources when we feel lost.

There was a time when David, the future king of Israel, found himself in a precarious situation. He had been fleeing from King Saul, who sought to take his life. In his desperation, David aligned himself with the Philistines, Israel's enemies. This decision led him to a point where he was about to march into battle against his own people. We find this account in 1 Samuel 29. David's situation was dire; he seemed to be on the wrong side, caught in a web of dangerous alliances.

In contrast, King Saul faced his own crisis. Saul had repeatedly disobeyed God, leading to a point where the Lord no longer answered him. In 1 Samuel 28, desperate for guidance before an impending battle with the Philistines, Saul sought out a medium in Endor to summon the spirit of Samuel. This act of turning to forbidden practices starkly contrasted with David’s approach when he found himself in silence from God.

David, while aligned with the enemy, knew where to turn for guidance. In 1 Samuel 30, when his camp at Ziklag was raided by the Amalekites and his men spoke of stoning him in their grief, David did not despair. Instead, he sought the Lord's guidance in the proper manner. David called for the ephod, the sacred garment of the high priest, and through it, he inquired of the Lord.

*"Then David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek, ‘Bring me the ephod.’ Abiathar brought it to him, and David inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?’ ‘Pursue them,’ he answered. ‘You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.’”* (1 Samuel 30:7-8).

Despite his earlier mistakes, David knew the importance of seeking God's direction. His response was to turn back to God, asking for guidance through the divinely appointed means. This act demonstrated his faith and reliance on God's providence, even when he had made poor choices.

Saul's story ended tragically. After consulting the medium and hearing from the spirit of Samuel that he would lose the battle and his life, Saul went into battle without God's favor and met his end the next day. His desperation led him to the wrong side, seeking guidance from a source that God had expressly forbidden.

The stark difference between David and Saul is clear: When David found himself not hearing from God, he sought the Lord through the proper, God-ordained channels. Saul, in his desperation, turned to forbidden practices, ultimately sealing his fate.

What does this mean for us today? We all face moments of silence, times when God’s guidance seems distant. The lesson from David’s and Saul’s lives is crucial: We must seek God’s voice through the right means. Today, we have the Holy Spirit, sent by Jesus to guide us into all truth. Unlike the Urim and Thummim or the ephod, the Holy Spirit dwells within us, offering continuous guidance and comfort.

Jesus said in John 16:13, *"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come."* We no longer need to turn to stones or ephods; we have the ever-present Holy Spirit to lead us.

Let us learn from these ancient stories. When we feel lost or unheard, let us not turn to the wrong sources. Instead, let us call upon the Holy Spirit, seek God’s guidance through prayer, and trust in His Word. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are always with us, ready to guide us if we seek, hear, and obey.

May we always remember to seek God’s face, even in silence, trusting that He will lead us on the right path.

With blessings and prayers for your continued journey in faith,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

All Nations

 

United in Christ: The One Nation of Believers

In today's world, where divisions based on ethnicity, culture, and social status are prevalent, it is crucial for Christians to remember a fundamental truth taught by the Apostle Paul: all believers are united as one in Christ. This unity transcends all earthly distinctions, forging a new identity as children of the Most High.

One in Christ Jesus

Paul's letter to the Galatians makes this point unmistakably clear: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise" (Galatians 3:28-29). In these verses, Paul emphasizes that faith in Christ erases all dividing lines. Our primary identity is found not in our ethnicity, social status, or gender, but in our relationship with Jesus.

Breaking Down Walls of Hostility

In Ephesians, Paul expands on this theme by illustrating how Christ's sacrifice has reconciled both Jews and Gentiles to God, forming one new humanity: "For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility" (Ephesians 2:14-16). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus destroyed the barriers that once separated people, uniting all believers into a single, cohesive body.

No Distinction Before God

Paul reinforces this idea in his letter to the Romans: "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him" (Romans 10:12). This passage underscores the impartiality of God. He does not favor one group over another. Instead, He extends His grace and blessings to all who call upon Him in faith.

A Nation of Believers

Given these teachings, it is evident that Christians collectively form a nation of believers. Our citizenship is in heaven, and our unity in Christ transcends all earthly differences. Peter echoes this sentiment when he writes, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). As God's chosen people, we are called to live out this unity, reflecting His love and grace to the world.

Living Out Our Unity

To truly embody this unity, we must actively seek to overcome prejudices and divisions within our communities. This means embracing diversity within the body of Christ and recognizing the unique contributions of each individual. It also involves standing against injustices and working towards reconciliation and peace.

In practical terms, we can start by fostering inclusive environments within our churches and communities, where everyone feels valued and accepted. We should also engage in open and honest conversations about race, culture, and social issues, guided by the principles of love and respect.

Conclusion

As children of the Most High, we are called to a higher standard of unity and love. Let us remember Paul's teachings and strive to live as one nation of believers, celebrating our diversity while being united in our shared faith. In doing so, we fulfill our calling to proclaim the excellencies of God, who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.

May we always remember that in Christ, there is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female, but all are one. We are, indeed, a nation of believers, children of the Most High, bound together by the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A Servant of Yahweh, 

JK. Woodall, Ph.D. 

Senior Pastor,  Revival Center Hesperia 

Welcome to Your New Month of June 2024!

 

Dear Friends,

As we welcome the new month of June 2024, I extend warm and joyous greetings to each of you. This sixth month of the year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect, renew, and redirect our paths towards growth and fulfillment, with the guidance of our Lord.

June, in its position as the sixth month, reminds us of the biblical symbolism of the number 6—a symbol of human effort, labor, and the recognition of our imperfections. Let us embrace this time to focus on areas where we can improve in our daily lives, acknowledging our human limitations while striving for excellence with God's help.

Areas for Improvement:

1. Personal Growth: 

   - Take time this month to reflect on your personal goals. Identify areas where you can improve, whether in your habits, skills, or relationships. Set realistic and achievable goals to work towards a better version of yourself.

   - *"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."* (Jeremiah 29:11)

2. Spiritual Health:

   - Make space for daily prayer, meditation, and reading of the Scriptures. Let the Word of God be your guide and source of strength. Seek to deepen your relationship with the Lord, finding peace and wisdom in His presence.

   - *"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."* (Psalm 119:105)

3. Relationships:

   - Strengthen your connections with family, friends, and your community. Practice kindness, patience, and understanding. Reach out to those who may need support or encouragement, offering a listening ear or a helping hand.

   - *"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."* (1 Peter 4:8)

4. Health and Well-being:

   - Pay attention to your physical health. Incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest. Remember that caring for your body is an important aspect of honoring the life God has given you.

   - *"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."* (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

5. Work and Productivity:

   - Approach your work with diligence and dedication. Whether in your job, studies, or personal projects, strive for excellence and integrity. Let your efforts reflect the goodness and faithfulness of the Lord.

   - *"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."* (Colossians 3:23)

Reminder of God's Goodness:

As we journey through June, let us constantly remind ourselves of the goodness of our Lord. His love and mercy are new every morning, providing us with the strength and hope we need to navigate life's challenges. The beauty of creation around us, the support of loved ones, and the opportunities we encounter each day are all testaments to His abundant grace.

In moments of doubt or difficulty, remember that God's plans for you are filled with hope and a future. Trust in His timing and His ways, for He is a faithful provider and a loving Father. *"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."* (Lamentations 3:22-23)

May this month be a time of transformation and renewal for each of you. Embrace the opportunities for growth and improvement, and let the goodness of the Lord shine through in all that you do. Open your hearts to His presence, especially in areas lacking Him, and witness the profound changes He brings.

Blessings and Peace to You All,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

Honoring Their Sacrifice, Embracing Their Legacy - Memorial Day 2024

 

On this Memorial Day, we gather with profound gratitude to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served our nation with unwavering courage and dedication. Their ultimate sacrifice stands as a testament to the values of freedom, justice, and peace that we hold dear.

We salute all who have given their lives in service to our country. Their selflessness and bravery have paved the way for the liberties we enjoy today. As we reflect on their legacy, let us also embrace the families and loved ones they left behind, offering our support and prayers.

As Jesus said in John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." May we carry forward the torch of their sacrifice with respect and humility, dedicating ourselves to living in a way that honors their memory. Together, let us strive for a world where peace and understanding prevail.

With heartfelt respect and remembrance,

JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia

The One Who Saves

 Yeshua: The One Who Saves

Dear Brothers and Sisters of All Nations,

In the face of ignorance and adversity, there is a beacon of hope—Yeshua, the one who saves. Let us draw inspiration from the powerful story in John's Gospel, where a woman faced condemnation from her accusers, yet found redemption in the compassion of Jesus.

As recorded in John 8:1-11, the scribes and Pharisees brought the woman caught in adultery before Jesus, seeking to trap him. But in their ignorance, they unknowingly led her to the one who would offer her salvation. When they demanded judgment according to the law of Moses, Yeshua responded with words of wisdom and grace. He said to them, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her" (John 8:7, NIV). With these words, he revealed the hypocrisy of the accusers and offered the woman forgiveness and a new beginning.

Yeshua's response to ignorance was not condemnation, but mercy. He demonstrated the power of forgiveness and showed us that no situation is beyond his saving grace. As we reflect on this profound story, let us also remember the words of Psalm 34:17-18, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

So, whatever challenges we face, let us trust in Yeshua, knowing that his love and mercy are always within reach. As we journey through life, may we find strength and hope in the promise of salvation offered to us through Jesus Christ, the one who saves.

With love and blessings,

Pst. J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

The Place of Crossing

The Place of Crossing

Dear Saints,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

As we journey together in faith, it is important to remember the significance of the places God has chosen for us to cross from one season to another, from one blessing to the next. Just as the Israelites had their "Place of Crossing," so do we have our appointed places where God calls us to step out in faith and trust in His promises.

In the Old Testament, we read about the Israelites' journey into the Promised Land. After years of wandering in the wilderness, their moment of crossing came at the Jordan River. In Joshua 3:15-17, it is written:

"As soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away... So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground."

This miraculous event marked a significant transition for the Israelites from a time of wandering to a time of possessing their inheritance. Their obedience and faith in God's instruction led them to the right place at the right time, where He performed wonders among them.

Similarly, John the Baptist baptized in a place called Bethabara, beyond the Jordan. As John 1:28 states:

"These things were done in Bethabara beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing."

This site holds a special place in the narrative of our faith. It was here that people came to repent and prepare the way for the Lord. It was here that Jesus Himself was baptized, marking the beginning of His public ministry.

Dear Saints, just as the Israelites had their Jordan River and just as John the Baptist had his Bethabara, we too have our places of crossing. These are the moments and places in our lives where God calls us to step out in faith, to leave behind the old and embrace the new.

Consider Moses, who stood on Mount Nebo, overlooking the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 34:1-4, we read:

"Then Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the whole land... Then the Lord said to him, 'This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob when I said, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it.'"

Moses saw the promise, even though he did not enter it. This teaches us that sometimes we see the vision of what God has for us, and our role is to prepare the way for others to step into their promises.

Our "Place of Crossing" may not always be easy to recognize, but it is where God has designated for us to move forward. It requires faith, obedience, and the courage to trust in God's timing and provision. It is where we leave behind our fears, doubts, and past failures to step into His promises.

As we stand on the brink of our own Jordan Rivers, let us remember these scriptures and be encouraged. Let us be willing to follow where God leads, confident that He has already prepared the way. May we trust in His faithfulness, knowing that He will lead us through our "Place of Crossing" into the fullness of His promises.

In faith and unity, let us move forward, knowing that our God goes before us, just as He did with the Israelites. Let us embrace our crossings with hearts full of hope and eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

Blessings in Christ,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

🌸 Happy Mother's Day 2024! 🌸

 🌸 Happy Mother's Day 2024! 🌸

Dear Mothers,

On this joyous occasion of Mother's Day, I extend my heartfelt appreciation and admiration to each and every one of you. Your unwavering love, strength, and grace inspire us all.

As we celebrate the invaluable role of mothers in our lives, I am reminded of the words of Proverbs 31:28: "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." Your dedication and sacrifices do not go unnoticed. You are truly blessed and deserving of all praise.

In the book of Isaiah, we find comfort in the promise that "as a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you" (Isaiah 66:13). Your nurturing spirit reflects the very heart of God, bringing comfort and solace to those around you.

Today, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the impact of your love and care. Your influence extends far beyond the walls of your home, shaping the future and leaving a lasting legacy of love.

May this Mother's Day be filled with moments of joy, gratitude, and cherished memories. You are loved, appreciated, and celebrated today and every day.

Happy Mother's Day, dear mothers! May God's blessings be upon you always.

Blessing from Above, 

Dr. Jermaine K. Woodall

Senior Pastor

Revival Center Hesperia 

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