By MariaMaria #537 CM 3297 5/00

A Millennial language?

Is it really "head-stuffing"?

Nothing to show for your life?

Whose "reality"?

Pack up? Or stay?

Anti-leadership attitudes

Do some people really "have it all"?

A MILLENNIAL LANGUAGE?

Mama:

1. Here are some interesting futuristic ques­tions which we brought before the Lord: During the Millennium, will we have special powers that will enable us to speak any language we wish? In some situations, the Lord has given people, through proph­ecy, a gift to actually speak in the local language (which they were not at all familiar with). Is this how it will be in the Millennium‚ or will we have to speak through translators? What about telepathy?

2. Also, why is it that we sometimes receive messages from beyond that are thickly accented or in broken and poor English, and at other times we receive clear and eloquent messages, even though the person speaking is not a native English speaker?

Jesus:

3. I have allowed and created many different cultures and customs, and great diversity amongst the peoples of the Earth. There are many languages that are an important part of these cultures. With some of these languages, it's very difficult to accurately translate the meaning, for there are some words that can only be spoken or understood in the original language.

4. In the beginning it was My plan for all of mankind to speak the same language and to understand everything that was spoken by others, but when men didn't use this great gift wisely‚ it was necessary to scatter and confuse them. But even in this I had a plan and a purpose—not only in the scattering of man throughout the Earth, but also that the world might be enriched by the diversity of cultures and differences of opinion and the way things were thought of and said and done.

5. This has also had its drawbacks and difficulties in that there's much misunderstanding between the people of the different nations or languages. But one day it will no longer be this way, for I will make an end to these misunderstandings and to the confusion of tongues. I will pour out My gift upon all mankind to understand what is being spoken to them. This is not a hard thing for Me to do. Did I not send the confusion of tongues? Therefore, is it a hard thing for Me to reverse it?

6. I will abolish the confusion of tongues, but it will not be during the Millennium. During the Millennium‚ man will again be faced with the choice of whether to obey Me, and he must also make the choice to make peace with his neighbor. This will not be fully accomplished until after the Millennium, at which time I will reverse the confusion of tongues. I cannot fully pour out this blessing until then because man will not have completely repented and accepted Me as his Savior, Lord, and Master until then.

7. You wonder why departed spirits and saints still have difficulties communicating. I will give you a clearer picture of what happens in the realm of the spirit with your languages and communication skills and needs, but you must understand that this is simply a peek. There is much more to it than this, which I choose not to give you at the moment, for you would not understand it at this time.

8. In Heaven, there is a language which all can communicate with, via thoughts, pictures, feelings. This is a very clear language, and no matter what background the person has, when they arrive in Heaven they can communicate and understand in this language. Of course, honing spiritual communi­cation skills is something that takes time. But the language is simple, it is natural, and when they arrive they feel that they have always spoken it—for indeed, they spoke it before they left Heaven.

9. Communicating in earthly languages, however, is a different matter altogether. That is something that must be learned. And while I give special anointing to those who need to learn a new language‚ and it's not as difficult as learning a language on Earth‚ it still takes time, practice‚ and experience to master it. And some people retain stronger accents than others when they choose to speak in an Earth tongue.

10. As for why Abrahim seemed to always speak in such broken English, that is because he chose to, for that was his method of communication with your Father David. There were many communi­cating with your Father David, and so to make it clear when he was talking‚ he spoke in a certain manner with a certain accent. It was also in the beginning when you were just learning about the spirit world and spiritual communications, so he consistently spoke that way to make it clearer, more interesting, and like a hallmark of his communications with David.

11. At first he spoke that way because he was learning English, the tongue of your Father David. He couldn't learn perfect English in advance‚ for he was assigned to a Gypsy king who kept him busy, and I kept the change of assignment somewhat of a surprise for him. But he did learn, and is now much more fluent. But at times he still chooses to retain his accent when speaking English, for that is his hallmark with the children of David, the personality that they know him by.

12. In the Millennium I will use the language skills that you've acquired on Earth. I will use your knowledge of peoples and their customs. All the skills that you've honed as one of My faithful missionaries will be very valuable to you in those days as well. It's not like you'll learn all those things at the drop of a hat once you arrive Here. If you wish to work on Earth as a Millennial missionary or helper, you will still make use of these things. So those who have not learned these various languages or customs will either have to work to catch up or will be restricted to ministries that don't require those skills and that knowledge.

13. That doesn't mean that if you have a difficult time with languages on Earth you'll be behind. If you do your best and apply yourself‚ I will use what you've gained and will add to it. The important thing is to realize that I will use all that you're learning now—it will not be wasted—including the languages you learn and the customs of the people you minister to. I will provide you with opportunities to learn the things that are necessary for your Millennial ministries once you arrive Here, if you've not had the opportunity to learn them on Earth. But you should learn all that you can now, knowing that I will put it to good use during the important period soon to come—the golden Millennium!

14. The gift of mental telepathy will for the most part be given to you who are saved and are helping to rule and reign with Me. You will be able to communicate with earthlings like this at times, and project your thoughts into their minds and read their minds.

15. But there will be times that you will have to go on undercover missions. There will be times when it would be more relatable or better for the sake of the work to speak the language and communicate in a way that they are used to communicating. There will be times when you will have to speak to groups‚ and they will need to answer—and will need to hear each other's answers. They will not have the same powers with one another, for obvious reasons.

16. In all these instances, a knowledge of the language and fluency of tongue will make you much more adaptable and useful. Of course, languages can be learned. But you will be very busy‚ there will be so much to do, and you will want to start immediately! So, besides the fact that it will help you to be a better missionary on Earth here and now if you speak the language, you'll also be thankful when the Millennium begins that you don't have to start then to learn it, but are able to start right away on your mission with the millions of needy people who will be waiting on you for help.

17. So spend your time wisely, and remember that everything you're learning now, you will use in the future. This life‚ when used properly and wisely, will reap great dividends in the future. All that you've learned will not go to waste, but will be used in some way. (End of message from Jesus)

(See also "The Languages of the Millennium‚" ML #1822, Vol.15.)

IS IT REALLY "HEAD-STUFFING"?

Q:

18. A lot of us have learned ministries on the go in the Family and know them pretty well. Would we be more useful had we taken the time to study and get a System educa­tion instead of just learning from experience and maybe a few little books or reference materials here and there in the Family? Or because we're in the Family gaining experience, is that better? In the Lord's eyes, which is more important? Overall, how does it weigh out—not just in the aspects of our service for the Lord and our rewards in Heaven‚ but what's more useful in practical terms?

Jesus:

19. My dear ones, I understand your desire to use your gifts to the best of your ability and to be all you can for Me, for the Family‚ and for your own sake. You have received much education in the Family, but little of it has been formal education, where you sat down at a desk and applied yourself day after day, year after year. There have been times when you needed to focus more on the care of the children, or the care of the Homes, or on winning souls, or making it possible for others to do so. Thus you feel you have some gaps in your education or that you lack in your knowledge, and you wish to fill the gaps and make up for the lacks.

20. There is much in the Family pubs which you can use to fill these gaps, and you can find many courses of study in the CVC and plentiful knowledge in other Family books. And, where it is needful to do so, provision was also made in your Charter for a certain amount of outside study. There's nothing wrong with wanting to learn and study. It's not My will for you, My children, to allow your minds to be idle. I love it when you're growing and learning, both in the realm of the spirit as well as in your education. I commend you for seeking to grow in your skills.

21. Yet at the same time‚ you must strive to maintain a good balance, and above all to remain in My will for you personally. As you learn knowledge and are instructed in material matters which will be helpful to you, beware that you do not forget the spiritual or neglect Me and My service. This is always a danger in higher education, and one which I have warned against in My Word.

22. While I have said to take fast hold of instruction‚ I have also warned that knowledge can puff up and lead to ungodliness. So it is good that you study, that you apply yourselves, but take heed that you also study to show yourself approved unto Me, a workman who does not need to be ashamed, because he has the ability to apply My Word.

23. You are My disciples first of all; that is your foremost calling. A disciple is a follower of the teachings—My teachings. In man's schools, you are taught the teachings of man and how to think and act from a worldly perspective, not a Heavenly one. You are immersed in the world, surrounded by people of the world, imbibing knowledge of the world, and as you do so, you run the danger of becoming like the world. But this is a fleeting world, one which is soon to pass away, and if you set your heart upon this material world to the neglect of the spiritual world, the true reality which will endure forever, you will regret it in the world to come.

24. Education which would pull you away from Me and My service is not good education nor true education. Though it may satisfy the mind for a short time, it does not satisfy the heart and spirit, nor does it satisfy the many others who need to hear of Me and My love for them, My gift of eternal life.

25. Much education and great learning are admired in the world of man, but they mean little to Me. What matters to Me is that you love Me with all your heart and soul and mind, and that you love your neighbor as yourself. Too much education can even be a handicap in My service, for it distances you from Me, makes you less dependent on Me, and quenches your fire to help others and impart salvation to them‚ which is the most meaningful work in the world—indeed, the most meaningful work for eternity!

26. What matters to Me, My children, is that you know Me and abide in Me and I in you, not that you know business administration or accounting or law or medicine or any one of a number of worldly professions. These take much time to learn, years when you could be serving Me and winning souls to Me, or making it possible for others to do so. After the years of training you would undergo to learn such things, you might become a little more useful in one aspect of your service to Me, but you probably would not remain in My service.

27. Though you began studying with the best of intentions, as the days, weeks, months and years went by, you would start to doubt your calling as a missionary. Your zeal would flicker, diminish and go out, and you would be overcome by the world instead of learning how to better overcome the world. And this would be a loss not only to you but to many of My lost sheep who you could have helped.

28. You protest, "That would never happen to me! I'm stronger than that, and I could make it through and remain in the Family or return to it." But you do not know what you say for you do not know what you would face‚ My dear ones. You would be surrounded by those of the world, taught things of the world by those of the world, and the pressures to conform would be immense. There would be many books, much learning, and much of that learning would be contrary to My knowledge and instruction and the truth which you have been raised and nurtured on.

29. You would not be able to raise your hand and say, "I do not agree with this" or "That isn't true" if you expect to pass that course and to gain that degree. You would be expected to agree, and not only to agree but to learn all that you can about that theory or that knowledge or way of man which may be directly opposed to My ways and that which you know is truth. And as you take these things in, even unwillingly, they work to change you, and it is not a change for the better but for the worse. There would be little time for My Word, little time for Me, little time for your brethren‚ little time for lost souls.

30. You would spend much time in man's word‚ much time in study, much time in home­work, much time in writing papers and doing research, much time in preparing for tests, and would undergo much pressure and strain without the benefit of time in My Word‚ time with Me, or support from your brethren. And the things which you study would not just be those which you wish to study, but things which you are required to study to gain your degree, even though you have no interest in them or you find them irrelevant‚ incomprehensible or ungodly. You would find yourself bored, frustrated, angry, at wits' end, or ready to scream at times.

31. In My Family, on the other hand, you can learn and grow as much as you wish, and yet remain in a godly atmosphere. There is much in your pubs about many fields or areas of knowledge if you would dig it out, and this is now easier than ever with the CVC. If you need to go beyond this knowledge for some reason, you can obtain System books and manuals that can help to impart to you the knowledge that you need. Many great men down throughout history have been self-taught or home­schooled, as you are in the Family‚ with little formal education. If you are willing to apply yourself to learning in this concentrated way, you can learn much.

32. If you must go beyond this book learning for some technical skill you have need of in your service for Me, then you can seek Me about taking a short course of a few weeks or months where you can gain the practical experience you need while returning to the godly atmosphere of your Home, surrounded by those who love Me and who love you.

33. My dear ones‚ I am able to give you all you need within the bounds of My Family and My perfect will—which at times, in counsel with Me and your Home, might include benefiting from an outside course or reference material which is available to you. I can help you to learn, to grow in knowledge and experience, while at the same time you grow in love and the spirit‚ maturing into the man or woman I would have you to be. You are precious to Me, and I will not neglect your education. I will teach you daily, personally through My Word and My living voice, as you seek to make the most of the daily opportunities that I set before you, for you are My child who I love dearly.

34. The way to know the difference between what will be helpful to you and what will be little more than "head-stuffing," with very few lasting benefits, is to ask Me about your personal situation. That is your greatest protection and insurance of My blessings—to stay in My perfect will for you. I can see the end from the beginning, and I know how much you'll use these skills that you want to advance in.

35. Fret not that you could have been more useful to Me had you studied this or that, or if you were to now go to this or that college. As you seek Me and listen to My voice and yield to My will, I will make you into what you need to be. You are already a great help to My work, and I will make you even more so in the days to come. (End of message from Jesus)

(See also "Go to It and Do It‚" ML #2771, Lifelines 20.)

NOTHING TO SHOW FOR YOUR LIFE?

Q:

36. I look at my parents‚ and I know that they've been faithful in their service to the Lord, but I wonder what they really have to show for it in the way of solid, lasting, tangible fruit or established work. They're still raising children, they're still out on the streets going door to door, and often struggling to keep afloat financially. I love them very much and I admire them for the sacrifices that they've made in serving the Lord, but at the same time I hope that I don't end up in the same situation that they're in when I'm their age. I'm especially concerned because they're getting older and won't always be able to keep up with such an active lifestyle. They've given a lot, but I'm afraid that in the end they'll wind up suffering for it. They don't have any material assets and I don't know how they're going to be taken care of when they're too tired to keep up the day-to-day, hand–to-mouth routine.

37. When I compare the Family with other missions, for example, or even charitable founda­tions, who really have something substantial in the physical to show for what they've done, it can be very discouraging. It seems like our work has been "hit and miss" by comparison. Most of our missionary families or Homes don't have big mailing lists of regular donors, or even big established CTP ministries that have been recognized by the System, etc. Of course, we've won a lot of souls and helped a lot of people. But why aren't there more visible results?

Jesus:

38. This is a complex situation with many sides, but I'll try to explain more simply and clearly‚ to put the failures and successes in perspective.

39. It's true that the older generation could have done better. They could have been more fruitful, and they could have been more diligent to have lasting proof of their good works. They could have stayed in one place longer, ministering to their friends and loved ones. They could have been more faithful with their follow-up and mail ministries, to generate more regular support. They could have paid more attention to ministering to the poor and needy, to win the appreciation and admiration of the city fathers. They could have had a better balance in training their chil­dren in scholastics as well as the spiritual. They could have been more prayerful in living the Law of Love.

40. Yes‚ there was room for improvement. But I must ask you, My young ones, when is there ever not room for improvement? It can be easy to judge your parents and others of the first generation‚ especially if you see that there's some validity to your judgments and comparisons. In looking at your parents, their present situation and struggles, you may see the flaws‚ shortcomings, mistakes, and even failures rather than their lasting fruit. In comparing, you may feel the Family should have done things differently in the past.

41. But I must remind you: You weren't there, walking in the shoes of the first generation. You weren't the ones carrying the responsibility‚ trying the best you could, learning by trial and error, feeling your way in the darkness by faith, clinging ever so tightly to My hand for your supply and protection. Until you've walked in their shoes and lived your lives to the full and raised your own big families and pioneered country after country by faith, then be not quick to judge, for in judging others you condemn yourselves.

42. Remember, your parents were once young and inexperienced too. They were learning as they went. They were babes in the spirit compared to what they are today, and yet they carried huge responsibilities in pioneer­ing, witnessing, and childrearing. Those things seem insignificant to you‚ because you're so used to it that it's no big deal. But you must realize that when your parents were the young pioneers, no one had done it before. With each new revolution‚ new ministry, or new missionary move to some foreign land, it was the beginning.

43. I'll tell you what the lasting fruits of the first generation are: They've pioneered the world and won disciples of many nations. They've raised their kids to serve Me the best they could. They've stuck. They've put Me first and continued to desire My Word. They've shared My message with hundreds of millions of people, one on one. They've led more than 20 million souls to Me, with your help. Heaven is full of the fruits of their witness!

44. Yes, they might not appear to be as "together" as some System churches or out­reaches. They might not appear to be as fruitful because you can't see the results in the form of large churches, profitable foundations or institutions, or substantial, recognized ministries. Some of you may even feel their lives have been somewhat wasted and that it's a pity that they didn't do more.

45. But you have no idea of all that's been accomplished by your parents! Their fruits may not be visible to you, but they are glorious and very apparent to Me! You have no idea of the ripple effect of their witness, the ones who they led to the Lord who are now serving Me and who have established churches and ministries and works with the poor. You have no idea of the millions who have been touched‚ influenced, changed and transformed by the ministry of your parents, and have gone on to change the lives of others. You have no idea of the testimony it's been to millions that your parents were willing to have big families and yet they traveled the world, following Me by faith, not knowing where I would lead next.

46. There are other ministers and Christians who have different works‚ and in many ways they appear more fruitful, like they've accomplished more. They've stayed put in one place, they've worked faithfully to minister to a handful, and in some cases their flocks have grown and they're obviously blessed. I am pleased with these, My servants. But what you must understand is that your parents and you have a different ministry than My children of the churches. Your role in My army is different. My expectations for the Family are different, and I consider your ministry the greater one, as it calls for more sacrifice and dedication.

47. I've called you, the children of David, to be My disciples. You've been called to live together communally, sharing all you have. You are to go into all the world to preach the Gospel. You are to live of the Gospel. You are those who carry the meat of the Word, the Words of David, to the world, to those who will receive it. You are anointed with the gift of faith in the New Wine, and you've been rewarded with the new weapons for the End.

48. Your ministry has been a spiritual one‚ and you have borne great fruits in the spirit—multi­tudes reached, lives transformed‚ souls saved! The ministry of others of My children has been more physical in many ways, and their fruits have more often been physical—great churches and cathedrals, large congregations, and more power and popularity.

49. Don't you see? The ministry of the Family is different, and so are the obstacles you face and the rewards you receive. The first generation was on the move much of the time, but that too was part of My plan‚ so they could win new disciples in the early days that would join and be trained over the years to be national leaders. What if those of the first generation had been unwilling to go South or East, or to Russia or Eastern Europe, or to the Catholics or the Muslims, because they wanted to stay put and "build a work" where they were, to keep ministering to the same people in the same place? They were building a work—but it was worldwide! It was to many different people in many different places. What might look like a haphazard, silly approach was My perfect plan, and there were so few who were willing to do it.

50. It seems now when you look back on the history of the Family that the first generation was starting and stopping and moving here and there with no rhyme or reason. But you must believe that I was in control. I allowed David to have the inspir­ations I knew were needed right at the time I knew was crucial for the advancement of the Family. Yes, there were many obstacles to overcome, because just about the time the Family got one method down‚ or one language‚ or had pioneered one part of the world, what did I do but upset the fruit basket and send all the apples rolling to new places‚ new ministries, pioneering and beginning again!

51. Start, stop! Go here, go there! Do this new ministry; stop that ministry and try this one! It may look like chaos to you, but it was My plan‚ My way. And through the flexibility and great faith of the first generation I built a tremendously strong foundation for a worldwide work.

52. All those older national disciples you see who now have families of their own—who do you think won them to the Family? Your parents and others of the first generation, of course! They were once babes, single, totally untrained. Many of them spoke no English, and your parents might not have spoken their language. But it was due to the faith and perseverance of the first generation that you have a strong national church in so many countries worldwide. That's no small thing. Not many churches have established so many national churches and full-time missionaries who are fully committed to their message and doctrine. We're talking disciples—not just supporters, but those who are fully convinced to the point of giving their lives for the cause.

53. You young people who have won new disciples from your own generation who are now in the Family, strong and full of faith, married with kids and pioneering or running their own Homes, know what an accomplishment this is. You know how much work and prayer it takes. You know what a tremendous feeling of fulfillment there is, because you have fruit that lasts.

54. On top of pioneering and witnessing and winning and training new disciples, your parents had and raised you—their kids! I know some of you are of a different mentality and you don't necessarily admire your parents' willingness to have great big families. You feel they have little to show for their years of toiling and living hand-to-mouth and sacrificing to make ends meet while they had one child after another. But you are seeing through a glass that is very dark, and you are in for a big surprise.

55. Even if the children of those FGAs have chosen to leave the Family so that the fruit of your parents' efforts is invisible and seems to have just slipped through their fingers‚ do you think I'll let their work and sacrifices go unrewarded? Ha! You haven't even begun to see the blessings that will be your parents' because of their willingness to bear children and raise them for My glory. The choice of each child is a personal matter between Me and that child, and some choose to follow and some do not. But the choice of the child does not diminish the reward the parent receives.

56. What you may see as foolishness or "bad plan­ning" in having such big families, I see as beautiful yieldedness of the most precious kind. And even if the parents' hopes are dashed when their darling, who they've given their all for, chooses to leave the Family and go their own way, I will not hold that against the parents. They will receive a reward for each child as if that child continued as My disciple, for I know that one day each child will. All that come to Me are Mine forever, and not one is lost to Me. I live in the eternal now and I reward the parents of My little ones according to eternity, not just according to this moment.

57. Besides your parents' willingness to pioneer and raise you, their kids, their greatest accom­plish­ment is that they've stayed true to the Words of David. They've been willing to continue drinking them in and following. This is no small feat, as you of the second generation are now beginning to appreciate, as you see so many of your own peers choosing to go back and follow no more after the New Wine. The first generation's willingness to love the Words of David is their greatest accomplishment.

58. I'm not saying that you of the second generation haven't been willing to pioneer‚ raise children, or love the Words of David. I'm not making a comparison here, and My intent is not to make you of the second generation feel inferior. There are those of the second generation who have also done well in these areas. I'm simply answering the question of what the first generation adults have to show for their lives. They've pioneered the world by faith; they have national disciples of over 90 nationalities; they have children who they've raised in My Word and faith; and they've stuck and remained faithful to the Words of David.

59. With these great accomplishments‚ do you think I'll leave them destitute in their old age? Will I forsake them in their latter years, as they move toward the sunset of their work for Me in this life? Of course I won't. I'll be closer to them than ever, and I'll make a way for them in their old age. I will supply. I'll be all that they need‚ and they will not lack. They've trusted Me their whole lives since joining the Family, and I will not let them down. No good thing will I uphold from these who have walked uprightly. They are My servants, My brides, and I will not leave them destitute. I would be worse than an infidel if I failed to care for My Own. Your parents know this, and have faith in My supply and provision.

60. They trust Me and they know their lives have been invested wisely, spent in glorious service, and they're thankful. You should feel the same. You should look upon them with respect and give them the place of recognition they deserve. They're the overcomers, and they've paved the way for you. You may not feel they've done a good enough job and you may wonder what they have to show for their labors. But I say they have done a good job, and I see great fruit from their labors. They're a success in My eyes‚ for they have obeyed Me and brought forth everlasting fruit‚ and that's what counts.

61. I knew they'd have to make some sacrifices and that they wouldn't be able to minister to their converts as much as they wanted and as much as those converts needed and deserved. But that sacrifice had to be made in order to go into all the world and make disciples of all nations while the time was right and the harvest was ready.

62. You of the second generation will travel a slightly different path in your service for Me in the Family, but that doesn't mean the one is right and the other was wrong. I have My timing in these matters, and I know when it's time to emphasize new directions and change former directions or mindsets. But let not any future changes cause you to be critical or to despise the great accomplishments of the past. Without the firm foundation that has been laid by the first generation, it would not be possible to build the future upon it. (End of message from Jesus)

Mama:

63. The Family has borne such wonderful fruit, even though it's mainly been spiritual fruit, as the Lord pointed out. We may not always see it, but He certainly does, and He said that Heaven is full of the fruit of our witness! The fruits are the more than 23 million souls who will spend eternity with Him. The fruits are the 237 million people we've witnessed to personally, and the many lives among them that have changed as a result. The fruits are the nearly one billion pieces of literature we've distributed that have traveled far and wide, to places we can't even imagine. And the fruits are you, our wonderful children‚ who will do even greater works.

64. We're not done yet, and we're certainly not done trusting the Lord to care for us! He's kept the Family and provided for us as we grew from a little ragtag bunch of hippies in one state in the U.S. to over a thousand Homes in more than a hundred countries. He's never failed us, and won't do so in the future‚ even as some of us grow older. As we continue to obey Him and to seek first His Kingdom, all our other needs will be added unto us. The Lord is our shepherd, and we shall not want. Whether young or old, the righteous will not be forsaken, nor will his seed have to go begging bread. He will care for His Own.

65. One of the ways He's going to care for His Own is through the new Activated program. He's going to pour out to you and meet your needs as you're faithful to follow up on His sheep and meet their needs. Through this program He's going to raise up those who can help us reach the world as well as friends, supporters, contacts and kings. Are you doing your part to push the Activated program—taking out the address cards, the magazines, the tools, and offering them to those you win to the Lord? Have you done so today? He's counting on you, and so are we—and so are His sheep!

WHOSE "REALITY"?

Mama:

66. This message was given for an SGA who went to spend a month in the States with her mom and brother and sister‚ as well as another old friend, who are all out of the Family. These particular former members are quite bitter‚ and were very intent on sharing with her their disbelief in many, if not most, of the Family's fundamental beliefs. And she was very intent on wanting to hear their views on things, trying to be open-minded, friendly, and loving. Because of this, she spent a lot of time listening to their views and ended up being heavily influenced by their attitudes of doubt and disbelief. When she returned to her job on the field, she asked for prayer and made a commitment to fight to gain spiritual victories in her life, God bless her, though it continued to be a battle for some time.

67. It's very difficult to listen to others' doubts and questions and not be affected by them, because doubts and questions often sound very logical and put an entirely different spin on the way things are presented in the Word. It's very easy to have a conversation with someone who's battling in a certain area and come away from it wondering what's really right—whether it's the way they see things, so logically, or the way the Word says things are, which can't really be fully understood in the natural.

Jesus:

68. My darling one, Satan has desired to tempt you away from My will. He's tried to sow his seeds of doubt and discontent within your heart‚ for he seeks to lure you away from your place of service, from the high calling I've placed before you.

69. I know that I've asked you to pay a high price for this honor, and I know that even thus far it has not come without difficulty, battle, and tribulation. But this recent test of your faith has been one of the greatest of all. You've come face to face with a serious attack of the Enemy, which you didn't even see as such from the start, since it came through those whom you love dearly—your very own flesh and blood, and old friends. You've heard their grievances and bitterness‚ and have pondered and considered and weighed them up.

70. While you still love Me and believe in My King David and Queen Maria and King Peter and My Family, and I know that this love and loyalty is strong, you've been somewhat destabilized by the blows that the Enemy has sent your way. He's struck at the very root of your foundation of faith—your childlike belief in My Word and acceptance of My love and My will‚ and My promise that all things work together for good.

71. These who have strayed from the path of My highest will no longer believe these things, for they've let their hearts and minds become clouded with bitterness and resentment, anger and doubt. The things that they say seem sincere, and indeed they are, for they have come to believe them. Some of their grievances have some basis, and some of the things they complain about happened. But they're leaving a very important factor out of the equation—simple faith! That's what your life for Me is all about, and that's what the Enemy is trying to strike at.

72. Life in the world is a life built on what you can see with your eyes and understand with your mind. Life in My Family is built on that which you cannot see but must believe‚ that which you cannot understand but must accept. It's a way of life so contrary, so different from that which your loved ones have chosen to follow, it's like the difference between the positive and negative print of a photo. Both portray the same picture, but from totally different perspectives. The one seems dark, confusing‚ unappealing; the other is full of life and color. Are they both real? Yes! But the negative is missing something—it lacks life! So do these who have pulled away from the pillar lack life—the life of God that comes through My Word and My Spirit.

73. Without seeing things through the filter of faith and without being spiritually minded, it would be easy to be convinced that there are many things wrong with the Word, with the Family and its leadership and others in it, and with its methods. But the truth is that I have founded and led and am leading this Family‚ and though mistakes have been made by some, you can rest assured that you have a king and queen who are in tune and in touch with Me, and who are leading the Family in the right direction. You can also rest assured that even that which has happened that seemed difficult, painful, or harmful for those involved, can bring about good in their lives and the lives of those around them, if they will be humble, yielded, accepting, and forgiving. This is such a hard lesson for many, for it goes so contrary to the mind of man and carnal reasoning.

74. You, My child, have lived this life of faith for so many years. You know that I have kept you. You know that I have loved you and cared for you, and loved and cared for your loved ones. You know that I'm real. You've seen Me work miracles. You've dedicated your life to giving My Words and My love to the lost. You've seen Me change hearts and lives. You've seen the good results of humility and forgiveness‚ and the negative results of pride and bitterness.

75. This recent experience should be, more than anything else, a lesson to you of where these things lead. They lead down the path to obscurity, emptiness, discontent, and misery. They lead to unfulfilled, unproductive and unhappy lives. This is not the life that I would give to My children. I would give a life full of challenge, excitement, inspiration, joy‚ and blessing! Yes, there are battles and difficulties, but with Me by your side they become bearable. When you do not remain by My side, even the smallest struggle can seem insurmountable, and even more daunting are the great tests and struggles of life, which are inevitable for everyone, no matter who you are.

76. I have allowed this great test to come upon you‚ My love, to show you that you are weak and needy and must depend fully on Me. You thought you were strong. You thought you could handle being exposed to the words and minds of these who are discontent and dissatisfied with My Family and with the lives they had within it, and who are intent on spreading their words of discontent to whoever will hear. You thought perhaps you could help them, or that somehow through listening to them you could gain input and information and insight that would help you better serve Me. Well, the feedback you received from them is certainly not going to help your spiritual life and your closeness to Me; yet if you hold on to Me tightly and seek Me desperately through this trying time, I will cause this experience to give you even stronger faith and a more clear and determined vision to fight for the right and stand up for My cause.

77. I'll help you to see through the lies and half-truths of the Enemy and to see things as I see them, through the eyes of faith and with the understanding of My Spirit. For My ways are so high above man's ways, and My thoughts are incom­parable to those of man. You with your carnal mind could never begin to comprehend the marvelous and manifold workings of My Spirit. Yet when you take on My mind and see through My eyes, I can give you wisdom far beyond your years and experience, which extends the limits of what you've seen and heard.

78. Many times you'll be faced with the questions‚ doubts, and discontent of those who are unhappy in the Family‚ or who are going through times of serious battle when they're viciously attacked by the Enemy‚ when he's seeking to undermine their foundation of faith. Many times there will be an element of truth to the things they say, because there are problems, there are difficulties, there are people who do not walk in love or in My Spirit. Many times you'll find yourself in situations where‚ if you let it get to you, if you're not well prepared in spirit by being full of My Word, and if you don't retreat to My Word and to My voice of prophecy for answers and guidance, you'll be tempted to drink in and be poisoned by the lies of the Enemy.

79. [When you find yourself in that type of situation] you must take extra time with Me—several hours a day if need be, at least for a while—so that you might drink in My written Word‚ pour out your heart to Me in prayer, and hear from Me personally. Meditate on and study those things which I show you. Bring each question or battle on your heart to Me, and let Me speak to you about it. Or if you don't have the faith or strength within you to ask Me about a certain question or battle, then communicate with your shepherds. Ask others to pray and hear from Me for you if need be. Do whatever it takes, but don't let doubts or questions linger in your heart and mind, while you figure that with time they'll go away.

80. They'll only go away if you wage a militant attack against them. They'll only go away if you stand up to the Enemy and raise your sword of the spirit and destroy his lies with My Word of truth. It's time to fight, My love! The battles will grow hotter and more trying, and I know you're aware of this, though you feel unprepared. It begins now, so take up your sword and fight! Hold nothing back from Me, but give Me your all. Expose every pore and fiber of your being to Me, and let My light wash over you and cleanse you. Let My voice answer you and comfort you. Let My Word strengthen you. Drink it in, suck for it and desire it. Even if you don't feel the hunger or desire‚ drink it in anyway, knowing that you need it to survive.

81. In summary, the keys to victory for you will be:

82. First, to completely accept and believe in My love for you‚ as well as My love for your loved ones. To accept My truth and My promises that I work no ill toward My children, and that all things work together for good.

83. Second, to come to Me with your questions and battles, and let Me speak to you personally and give you My answers. You can ask for help from others if you feel you need more well–rounded answers.

84. Third, to take extra time with Me and drink in My Words in a great and powerful large dose.

85. Fourth, to outfit yourself in mind, heart and spirit for battle. To wage war against the Enemy. To realize that he's fighting you and trying to hinder and defeat the great ministry I've prepared for you. He'll stop at nothing, so you must determine to do the same.

86. Fifth, believe that I can do it. Believe in My power to restore and heal and strengthen your spirit. Believe that I have the faith, the grace‚ the strength‚ the wisdom, and everything that you need. You can't do the task ahead of you in your own strength‚ but you can do it in Mine.

87. Let this time of testing and breaking strengthen you and make you stronger and more well versed in the arts of war than ever before, and so will these battles come to be seen as a blessing and not a curse.

88. I know that you have what it takes, and it's just up to you to hold on to and claim that crown that is rightfully yours. Don't let it go, no matter how great the temptation, no matter how high the cost! In due time you will surely know that it has been worth every ounce of blood, sweat and tears, every trial and heartbreak, every sacrifice and forsaking. You'll reap the wonderful rewards of your labors, and you'll receive My commendation and appreciation, because you were yielded and obedient to the Heavenly vision, to the call I placed upon your life and heart.

89. For indeed this is your destiny, what I have prepared you for from the very beginning. So fight for what is yours, and fight for what is Mine. Fight on for Me, and for your brethren, and for the lost‚ and know that great victories will be ours! (End of message from Jesus.)

PACK UP? OR STAY?

Mama:

90. One of our dear young women who had recently moved to a new mission field wrote in and said that she felt discouraged that she wasn't accomplishing as much as she wanted, and wondered if she was really making a difference there. She was on the teamwork‚ but felt that they didn't counsel much with her, since she was the "newcomer." She looked back to her previous situation, a field she'd been in for many years, and felt that maybe she should go back, as she had people she knew well and worked very well with and had felt fulfilled in her ministries there. The Lord had told her to come to this new field, but it didn't seem to be working out as she had hoped.

91. The Lord's answer to her was very beautiful‚ and I pray it will be a blessing to you too. Of course, whenever you have questions about your personal situation, please don't hesitate to take them to the Lord, because it's very possible that His counsel for you could be completely different than His counsel for someone else. But this is good general counsel.

Jesus:

92. I'm so pleased, My love, with the commitment you've made to Me and the steps you've taken to come closer to Me. You've been fighting and striving to live up to My standard and all that I've asked of you; you've heeded My call and challenge to become an even more dedicated disciple. And though, like anyone, you've slipped and fallen back at times, I see your heart and I know it's pure and clean before Me. I know that though your own desires and feelings are strong, you're willing to give Me first place, even if it means giving up or setting aside some of what you want or would prefer. For this I commend you, and I promise you that it will not go unrewarded.

93. Part of the reward that I wish to give you is more fruitfulness in your service to Me—not that you haven't been fruitful, but I would that you be able to see the fruits of your labors. In order to do that, it's usually required that you stick around for a while on a given field. In this case‚ I've called you to this mission field, I've shown you the great need, and broken your heart for the lost and lonely ones there. You may feel frustrated at times and wonder if you're really where you should be. Yet if you just move and hop around whenever something goes wrong or things are difficult‚ you'll never have the opportunity to bear the fruit that you desire to bear for Me, because many things simply take time.

94. Even in your present situation within your Home, if you'd stick it out longer, you'd give Me time to work in your life, the lives of others around you and the situation in general, and it would improve. If you leave and move to another Home, things may improve for you too; yet wherever you go, you're going to find similar obstacles and battles, because humans are weak and full of faults and have a lot to learn! That's not an entirely bad thing, though‚ because I'm teaching and helping the whole Family to grow; and as you grow‚ I'm teaching you humility and dependence on Me, as well as how to have compassion and understanding for one another.

95. I'm teaching the two generations to work together. I'm teaching those from different cultures to blend together. I'm trying to help you all to see that these relatively trivial things don't matter so much. What really matters is your love and dedication to Me‚ and to winning the world for Me. When you get your focus on these priorities and have it very clear in your minds and hearts and communications what you're here for, then you realize that these other things don't matter so much; or if they are problems, they're not too great to solve or overcome‚ with My help and guidance.

96. You can make a great deal of difference, My love. Even if you're having to take the low seat, and even if you feel your position is largely in name only, you can still benefit from much valuable training. Even if your training doesn't come from your co-workers pouring into you or teaching or trusting you as much as you'd like, I can train you and instruct you by My Spirit and make you a good, wise shepherd and counselor. I can give you checks and leadings that‚ if you follow through on them and present them to others, will not only help to gain their confidence and trust and draw you closer, but will also help your work and Home overall.

97. If you look at your situation with the eyes of faith, like the salesman who went to Africa and saw that "everybody needs shoes"—or to paraphrase it for your situation, "everything needs help"—you'll realize how much of a difference you can make and how far your influence can go.

98. I will not require of you more than you are able to do. There are many other things you could do and still be within My will. Yet I do want you to learn this important lesson and principle, that it often pays off to stick around and hold on, to face the problems and find solutions for them, rather than attempting to escape them. If you develop the attitude and habit of escaping when things get tough‚ you'll spend much of your life running away from things rather than progressing and advancing toward your goals. (End of message from Jesus.)

ANTI-LEADERSHIP ATTITUDES

Mama:

99. I want to address the subject of some of the anti-leadership sentiments that seem to be spread around pretty freely. There are two main aspects of this problem.

100. Number one, some of you seem to think that you don't need shepherding‚ that you should be free to be your own boss. You resent those who are over you, and that leads to being critical of them and not working well with them.

101. Number two, there are others of you who understand that some leadership is necessary, but you criticize the ones you have and feel free to speak against them, highlighting their faults and complain­ing about the way they treat you.

102. The necessity of obeying and respecting leadership is nothing unique to the Family and our way of life. In the world you're expected to obey and follow the instructions of your boss; if you don't, you get fired. They couldn't care less whether you like them or not! You're expected to do your job, and do it well, or you hear about it. If you can't or won't flow with it, you find yourself out of a job.

103. I've heard from several young people who have left the Family that the reason they left was because they couldn't handle the "close oversight" or the shepherding that they were receiving. They felt that leaving the Family would give them the freedom to be their own boss, decide their own schedule, and live their life however they choose.

104. Reality is very different. Anywhere you go in the world, you're going to have to learn to submit to some­one. If you're working at a job, you have a boss telling you what to do—who is often a lot less kind than the ones you've got in the Family. If you're going to school, you have teachers—who likewise are probably less understanding or interested in your success as a person than your shepherds in the Family.

105. I understand that no one is perfect—including shepherds. I'm sure your shepherds make mistakes—possibly lots of them! You may not particularly like your shepherds in the Family. I'm sorry, but they have a job to do‚ and you're expected to support them and obey them out of respect for the Lord and the Family. If you feel that they're not representing the Word or the Lord, then it's your responsibility to report that to your overshepherds. But what is not acceptable is the attitude of "I don't like them or the way they do things, and I don't really need shepherding, so I'm not going to obey them."

106. Sometimes your leaders might even act like novices or get lifted up in pride because of the responsibilities they've been given. But even that is not a good excuse to resent them or decide not to give them your respect. In a case like that, your responsibility is to pray for them. You can be sure that the Lord will take care of making the lessons that they need to learn very clear to them in His time. He sometimes works more swiftly in their lives to point out their shortcomings than He does in the lives of others because leaders bear a greater responsibility. Like the Bible says, "To whom much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more" (Luke 12:48). Your part is to support them, pray for them, and do what you can to make it easy for them. They're not perfect, but they have a big job‚ and a difficult one.

107. I understand that hearing about this probably rubs you the wrong way. But reality, folks, is that in every sphere of life there is leadership. And in order to be successful in life, you have to be willing to submit‚ to learn from those who you are placed under, and work with them rather than against them. Feeling that the trial or hardship of having to submit to leadership is unique to the Family is a severe misconception.

108. I'm going to list some of the reasons you may have for these negative attitudes toward leadership. Please check your heart and see if you're doing all you can to promote unity‚ and to lovingly support our dear leaders who carry such a weighty responsibility—who sacrifice their free time, their time with their families and loved ones‚ and their personal desires and dreams, to take up the responsibility of leadership—whether it's your Home shepherd, VS or CRO.

•109. Your peers are open about their criticism of leadership, and you want to be cool and fit in. You fear that if you stand up for your leadership or support them, your friends will say the same negative things about you, so you join in.

•110. You've been stumbled by a mistake made in the past by someone in a position of leadership, and you still carry the hurt or the bitterness in your heart, which eventually comes out of your mouth.

•111. You may not want to be a leader or shepherd yourself, but you don't think it's fair that your friend was given this responsibility. You're just as on-board as he or she is, and you resent the fact that you weren't considered or chosen. You're envious‚ so you criticize them so everyone will know about their faults.

•112. You think that someone was given a position or elected to the position of leadership because they have lots of friends or have friends in high places, and not because they were any more "worthy of the title" than you.

•113. You criticize your leadership because you have no idea how heavy the load is that they carry. You're naïve about the responsibility they bear, so when you see them take time off or get extra help with their kids, you become critical.

114. Whatever the reason‚ it pretty much all boils down to pride in one form or another. Here's a message from Dad on the subject.

Dad:

115. It's come to my attention that there's a subtle—and in some cases, not so subtle—anti-leadership trend in some of our Homes. There are a lot of reasons for this, and it's different in almost every case. But no matter what your beef is against your leadership‚ or what your reasoning is behind not wanting to support them and work with them, you need to get over it.

116. Face the facts of why you feel the way you do. If it's bitterness or resentment in your heart over past mistakes‚ ask for prayer and forsake it and go on! If it's unanswered questions, for God's sake, ask, get the answers, and then go on! If it's envy or jealousy, face the fact that that's your problem, not theirs! Accept the place the Lord has for you.

117. Yieldedness brings peace. You'll never get ahead in spirit or move on to the new things the Lord has for you while you're busy criticizing and finding fault with others. If the problem is peer pressure and you have a problem standing up to your friends and so are sucked into the negative mindsets, then take a stand! Ask the Lord to help you, and the next time it comes up, say something—right then and there!

118. These negative attitudes toward leader­ship, the criticizing and complaining and lack of support‚ tear down the Family and our unity and all that we're collectively trying to build. The Family is what you make it. In order to move forward and grow and become stronger, we have to have a leadership structure in place that is supported by obedience and respect—and that's in your court to bring about.

119. This attitude of "I don't like my shepherds so I'm not going to support or obey them" is immature and naïve. As soon as you come to realize and accept that the need for leadership is just part of life, the happier you'll be and the more you'll get accomplished. So quit tearing things down with your negative attitudes, and instead get busy trying to build! Take on some responsibility yourself and learn what it's all about—or at least support those who do!

120. You're all shepherds in some form or another—whether you're shepherding a little group of kids, or reaching the lost, listening to their heartcries and leading them to Jesus. Everyone has influence! Use yours for good! Amen? Love‚ Dad. (End of message from Dad.)

DO SOME PEOPLE REALLY "HAVE IT ALL"?

Q:

121. Why is it that it looks like some people lead charmed lives? They have perfect health‚ successful ministries, perfect children, a great family life, every­thing, and other people seem to lead lives that are full of trials and conflicts and battles on what looks like every side?

Jesus:

122. You're probably expecting an answer along the lines of "don't compare." While it's true that you must learn to not compare‚ there is a lot which goes on behind the scenes in every person's life which is often unseen by others. I want to show you a little bit of that, which will make it easier for you to learn to not compare.

123. Part of the answer is found in the wise words of Ecclesiastes, "To every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under Heaven." Not everyone goes through their rough spots at the same time, but everyone has them at some time or another. Especially you, My children, who have been chosen to serve Me, can be sure that your fellow disciples have each passed through the Jordan at some time or another in their lives.

124. No life is complete without a touch of suffering, sadness, and difficulty. I allow each person to experi­ence some sort of difficulty because I want each one to learn to overcome. I want each one to have the experience of being at the end of themselves, and then clinging to Me and finding My power and strength. It takes desperation to bring that about, and often the desperation results from times of great difficulty.

125. So‚ while you may look at someone and think that they never have difficulties in life, at least not ones that are comparable to yours, you can be assured that they have at some time, or they will yet.

126. Another thing to keep in mind is that what to you might look like the ideal life, ministry or circumstances, to someone else is a life of great sacrifice. If you were to see inside another person's heart or life in a situation like that, you would often see that they made great sacrifices to become what they needed to be in order to fill that role or receive those blessings. Or maybe that ministry or situation which looks so wonderful to you is not really what they would rather be doing—and so they continue to sacrifice each day. To you it looks ideal, but they would much rather be in an entirely different situation.

127. Part of the problem is that you and I often see things so differently. You look at it as blessed to have a more carefree or obviously successful life with fewer problems, difficulties or afflictions. I look at it as being better to have a full life—one that is rich in faith, depth of spirit, understanding, sacrificial love and concern for others, an intimate relationship with Me, inner spiritual strength, and a tender heart. And often these treasures of spirit, these priceless qualities, don't come without trials, suffering‚ or surviving great difficulties.

128. In Heaven, everyone will lead charmed lives. There will be no more suffering, sadness, or times when you have to "walk by faith" through very difficult circumstances. But the attributes you gain through those difficult conditions now will be with you for eternity. Now is your chance to gain those virtues, through experiences which you will only have on Earth. Although there are difficulties, they lead to precious lessons, spiritual "medals of honor" which go to those who pass through the fire and endure the tests.

129. The bottom line is: I see and know each heart. I know what each person needs. Before you came to Earth you were each shown a glimpse of what you would learn, and you even helped to pick the lessons and things you wanted to learn‚ the virtues you wanted to gain, while on Earth. So when you find yourself in difficulties, remember that. Choose to learn from them, to excel in the school of life and overcome—rather than complaining that life is so hard on you.

130. And if you see someone who seems to have it "oh so easy," remember that you don't know what has gone on behind the scenes in his or her life. Each person experiences difficulties and faces challenging opportunities for growth. Maybe they've learned to hide it behind a smile, or maybe now is just not their time. Maybe now they're having a time of reprieve from the battle because I know that's what they need the most. You can't judge, because you don't have the complete picture and you can't see it all.

131. Do the best you can with the life that I've given you. When you get to Heaven, you'll see with your own eyes that I was fair in what I gave each person and just in My dealings with them. I think you'll be thankful when you see how the cross that you bear in life was designed perfectly for you—to strengthen your weaknesses and to add new strengths, rounding out your character in a beautiful way. Life is what you make it! (End of message from Jesus)

Quotes added in boxes in the last message:

I see all the secret things of the heart that you do not see. Some people seem to suffer greatly in the flesh, and yet in some cases to compensate for this I place a wellspring of inner happiness and content­ment within them that exceeds that of others. It is possible for a very troubled, afflicted person to in fact be happier with their lot in life than a person who has everything he wants but is shallow or empty in spirit.

As a wise poet* once said, "Every man has his secret sorrows." You may look at some people and consider that they have all that a person could want or desire, but this is just because they have what you want and desire. Maybe their desires are very different, or at least were at one point, and they had to forsake a dream, a person, or something that was very valuable to them. Maybe they've handled it well and learned to live with it, and in turn‚ I blessed them with a lot of wonderful things in life‚ which in time eased the pain of loss that they once felt. *(Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807-1882.)

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