Earlier this week, I posted some photos on Facebook of a male Red-bellied Woodpecker dutifully feeding his juvenile offspring. I observed that one fledgling was already going to the suet feeder on its own, while the other would chirp and flutter its wings to signal its hunger. This one constantly followed its daddy from the tall poplar tree in my yard, to the feeder and back again. I enjoyed watching the loving care this doting father was giving to it.
On Tuesday night, I was sitting on my deck on a very important phone call. Suddenly, I saw a resident hawk dive down onto something in that large tree, and then flew with it to the ground. I couldn’t clearly see what it was, but heard the sound its prey made; sadly, I was sure it was that juvenile woodpecker. Immediately, the daddy woodpecker swooped at the hawk to its rescue, but the hawk took off with its prey held tightly in its deadly grip! Other species of birds immediately came to help. Blue Jays joined the woodpecker in pursuit, and together with some other birds, they made a loud cacophonous noise. I looked on as they chased the hawk in vain, and soon the sky soon grew grievously quiet.
After I finished my call, I diligently searched for the young woodpecker in the tree, but deep down I knew it was the victim. I tried to remain hopeful that I would spot it, thinking perhaps instead of the juvenile woodpecker, an unwanted rodent had become hawk’s meal. Of course, that was unlikely given all the birds that pursued the hawk after it attacked. As I continued to watch for the fledgling, I saw the daddy come to the feeder, get a mouthful of suet, wait, and look at all the familiar places his baby would land. Sadly, his little eager eater never came.
I have seen this happen in nature before, and normally I’m very practical about it; however, this incident upset me tremendously! I could not get a grip on my emotions and wept as if I had lost a loved one. I kept telling myself that it was ridiculous to carrying on as I was, but the grief overwhelmed me. I prayed and asked the Lord why I had such a strong, exaggerated reaction to this event. I believe He has showed me several important things, which is why I am sharing this with you.
While seemingly a small thing, it was like the straw that broke the camel’s back. The night before, I had watched two hours of the evening news, which I normally strictly limit. I was shocked at the number of people in my city (ATL) that have lost young family members this week to senseless acts of crime, auto accidents, and drownings. I have felt badly for the parents, family and friends, and in every case that I heard about, there was a common theme. Like the daddy woodpecker, there didn’t seem to be anything the parents could have done to prevent it.
As our children grow, it is impossible and inappropriate to be with them at all times. We can keep guard for their safety, but there is a point where they have to start watching for themselves. Unfortunately, something can happen that tragically takes them from their loving family. This is when we must join in, as the blue jays did for the woodpecker, and pray for the grieving parents, family members, and community. The Father hears our prayers and He will comfort those who mourn. That is His promise!
The Lord revealed something else through my grief, and that is His deep grief when the enemy snatches a little one from Him. We know it’s not because He is too weak to keep it from happening. He’s God!!! These things happen because He’s given mankind freewill and He will not take it from us – even if He sees we are making poor choices. That is huge!
Peter warned that we are to be sober and vigilant, because the devil is like a roaring lion seeking to devour. It is not God’s will for us to suffer theft, to be killed or destroyed. Jesus came to give us life in abundance. From this, we can easily discern what workings are God’s, and what things our adversary causes. Anyone saying that God brings premature deaths, diseases, and calamity (to teach us a lesson, humble us, etc...), is mistaken. They are not receiving that message from the Lord or from Scripture. Reject what they are saying, as they do not know the true heart of the Father’s love or His faithfulness to those whom Christ gave His life. God cares for the birds of the air. How much more does He care for us? He is our Father, our Provider, our Healer, our Ever-present help in times of trouble (and so much more).
As I sat this morning to have my coffee, journal, and study, I looked out the window and it blessed me to see the other fledgling. This one approached feeding time differently than the one that was snatched. It had observed its daddy go to the feeder, and it did likewise. This one learned to feed itself. The other one made a lot of noise, constantly fluttered its wings, and made a scene. While it got its daddy’s attention, it also caught the hawk’s watchful eye. We see which one survived.
The Lord was showing me through this how we often rely on our pastor or others feed us spiritual truths. While it’s natural to want someone else to feed you when you are young, there is a time to learn how utensils work. We have to grow up and learn to feed ourselves spiritually, and rightly divide the Scriptures. How else can we know if what we’ve been taught is the truth instead of a gray, dim, or twisted version of it? We must learn to “be still and know that He is God” and that “He is the Rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” The anointing resides in us by the Holy Spirit for the expressed purpose to teach us all things; but we must guard and develop it. This is the Lord’s will and I pray we walk in it. Amen
In the Father’s abiding love,
Judy A Bauman
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1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
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John 10:10 “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
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Matthew 6:26 “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”
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2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
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1 John 1:26-27 These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you.But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
In my last post, I shared with you “The Age of Distraction.” The Lord has continued to reveal some things about this raging battle many of us find ourselves fighting.
While there are many worldly distractions that can rob us of our wellbeing and time with the Lord, good works can also become the enemy of God’s best for our lives. They can cause us to miss His perfect will. The Father wants the best for us for the glory of His kingdom. We may believe we’re doing something for the Lord, when the Holy Spirit has not actually led us to do it. Even worse, when He opens a door for us to walk through – one that is HIS true desire for our lives – we could find ourselves already committed to something else!
Beloved, this is a terrible place to be, and I say this from experience. If we are doing something ‘good’ but aren’t operating in the fullness of God’s grace, will we continue in it anyway? I pray not! When the Holy Spirit lifts His grace, even the most enjoyable tasks become difficult and unrewarding. We need to be sensitive to His desire to make changes in us and in our circumstances.
Remember, Jesus taught that He is the Door and going in any other way but through Him is egregious to God. May we find ourselves waiting for His instructions, so when He gives them we can say, “Yes, Lord!” Amen
Blessings in the Father’s love,
Judy A Bauman
Posted by: Judy A Bauman AT 06:43 pm
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A good friend of mine wisely describes the day in which we live: “The Age of Distraction.” I asked God for further insight on this topic because distractions have become a raging battle, not only for me, but also for many in the Body of Christ. While I’ve addressed how distractions keep us from hearing the Holy Spirit in previous posts and in both of my books, would you believe I have been too distracted to sit with the Lord long enough to hear what He has to say about this pressing matter? Woe is me!
Determined to gain deeper revelation on the matter, I got out my journal and wrote, “The Age of Distraction,” and then wrestled to quiet myself. Unfortunately, not even a minute passed before something took my focus away from seeking the Lord! While there are many legitimate issues that crop up and demand our immediate attention, this was not one of those times. As it happened, I looked out my window, as I often do while journaling, and a beautiful Eastern Bluebird flew up and landed on my newly planted basket of violas. The brilliance of the sun lit his vibrant blue feathers and brick-red chest, and the light electrified the array of purple flowers. Together they were an explosion of spring colors and a joy to behold! I hurried into the kitchen to get my camera and suddenly realized that THIS is what the Holy Spirit was teaching and wanted me to understand about distractions!
We may be aware that wicked powers and principalities use all sorts of distractions to keep us from God’s best, but we also need to be on the lookout for good things that can usurp God’s will for our lives. There’s a time to grab the camera and capture a lovely photo of God’s creation, but we can’t allow such beauties to steal our focus away from the Creator of that beauty! As Jesus said, “Wisdom is justified by her children.”
Looking at this subject anew, I believe this onslaught of distractions keep the Body of Christ from consulting the Lord, studying His Word, and being faithful in prayer and service. By design, the enemy of our soul uses all sorts of distractions to dull our spiritual senses. We must learn to wait patiently on the Lord, and then move only in His timing. If He tarries, may we be wise and tarry with Him, but when He says to “GO” then we must GO!
Father God, in Jesus’ mighty name, we ask that You help us to see distractions for what they are. Please teach us to keep our eyes upon You. We pray for Your will to be done in us, and that we will recognize when something is diverting our attention from seeking Your face. Amen
In the Father’s abiding love,
Judy A Bauman
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Posted by: Judy A Bauman AT 05:09 pm
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“The continual bombardment of wicked and depraved news has caused many of My people to grow weary in well doing. Some have allowed their words to become as bitter springs instead of living water. This should not be.
“Remember, the water I give will be as a well springing up to eternal life! The water I give is to flow from your innermost being as rivers of living water. This life-giving water is to be shared with a parched world.
“Have I not spoken through My word that there will be perilous times? Do not allow your love to grow cold, dear ones. Your adversary relishes the thought of any of My bought and paid for saints turning from Me and following him. Many of My children have been and are being persecuted, and some wonder why I have abandoned them when I am actually right by their side. Like Job and his friends, they listen to the reasoning of their own minds to explain why someone is suffering.
“If you want to avoid spiritual drought, then you need to drink from My living waters and not run to the world for your information. Don’t drink from tainted waters and expect to stay healthy. They are continually fed by streams filled with death and destruction. If you drink from their deadly waters, this will be all you can see. You will not be able to see and rejoice in the glorious and miraculous things I Am doing all around the world.
“Beloved, be the cool refreshing drink to those around you who don’t have My words hidden in their hearts. Be the ones who bring light into the darkness and sprinkles salt on the tasteless, decaying ones who so desperately need salvation and deliverance. Do not grow weary in well doing, My child. In due season you will, you will, you will reap a harvest if you faint not.”
Your loving
Abba
Scriptures to Ponder:
Matthew 24:10-12; 21; John 4:14; 7:38; Job 4:1-9; 1 Peter 5:8; James 3:10-12; Gal 6:9
Posted by: Judy A Bauman AT 05:16 pm
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Jewels from Judy: Billy Graham Mantles Are Raining All Over the Earth!
By Judy Bauman
As most of you already know, on February 21st, Billy Graham, America’s most prominent evangelist, passed from this earth at the age of 99.* When I read the news, my heart spontaneously leapt for joy. Honestly, I thought it an odd and uncharacteristic reaction on my part; however, the joy was unmistakable and wonderfully overwhelming! I knew he was free from everything that ravaged his body for the past 20 years, and I was so happy for him. A evangelist friend of mine said the Lord showed her Billy being greeted in heaven by a huge number of people standing in line waiting to welcome him home. Then she saw Jesus at the front of the line! Glory!
That morning as I sat with my journal, I was praying and saw something so beautiful. I saw rain falling all over the world, but it wasn’t raining water; it was raining Billy Graham mantles! I instantly knew that anyone who wants one of his mantles need only need lift their hands and receive it.
A couple of days later I was talking with the Lord and said, “I know You said anyone who wanted one of Billy Graham’s mantles would be given one, and while I’ve urged others to receive this gift, I really don’t see myself being an evangelist, so I’m not sure if I should ask for it.” He immediately encouraged me saying, “It isn’t something one should receive without considering the cost. It is ok to pray about this, and ask Me for it only if you are sure it is what you want.” He gave me a moment to ponder and then added, “And Judy, if you decide that you don’t want it, there is no condemnation in Christ.”
I cannot tell you how relieved I was to hear that!
The Lord then kindly said, “You don’t have to decide right now, you have until Purim.” I immediately got online to find out when Purim is and learned it is February 28th –March 1st. (If you do not know what Purim is, it is the Jewish celebration of Israel’s salvation from annihilation as recorded in the book of Esther.) Now if that isn’t enough, later that day I heard on the news that Billy Graham will lay in state at The Capital, and the dates coincide precisely with Purim! Interestingly, he is the 32nd person to be honored in this manner (see Psalm 32) and the 4th civilian (see John 4:32-42). The Lord just gave me both of these Scripture referenced!
So many things have happened that confirm heaven’s door is opened wide to both the Church and the world since Billy Graham’s passing. This long-awaited harvest is upon us. This “rain” is going to produce fruit through an outpouring of God’s love, as we’ve never seen. If you haven’t already lifted your hands to receive the rain (mantle), I hope you consider asking the Lord to give you the portion He would desire that you have for this day and hour. Receive it and prepare as a farmer in the springtime.
In the Father’s love,
Judy A Bauman
*Shepherd leaves the 99: Matthew 18:12; Elijah’s mantle 2 Kings 2:12-14;
The Currency of Heaven: An Exhortation from the Father
When I inspire a person, and they receive it, there is life released through and in what they do. I have given mankind great abilities. While some may take credit for themselves, those who give Me glory for what they do, I will breathe life into them and give them more.
I am looking for people who will allow Me to inspire them. I am looking for people who will receive the training of the world, yet not be tainted by godless teachers. I can take one’s training and magnify it by bringing great ideas and inventions to solve problems and bring relief to the orphan and widow.
When greed arises, and those ideas are used for selfish reasons, it causes trouble. The greed of man cannot produce the righteousness of God. You cannot serve God and mammon.
Your presence is the currency of heaven. THAT is what is most valuable to Me. Come listen and hear what I have to tell you. Come eat and drink my food and water, My wine, My milk; eat My honey and be refreshed in My presence.
Allow Me to instruct you
Allow Me to feed you
Allow Me to lead you on My path
Come and listen
Hear My words spoken to your heart
I will give you rest
I will give you strength for the day
The solutions you seek to the questions you ask will be given to you when you do.
"You are in My arms. When things seem to be dark, see yourself in My embrace. See yourself in the shadow of My wings. I will never leave you. I will never forsake you. So no matter how quiet it seems I have become, know I Am as near to you as a whisper. I am your Dwelling Place. In Me you have salvation, provision, deliverance, hope, and joy! Let My joy be complete in you.
"When you meet people, greet them with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Greet them with My love, greet them with My peace. I Am with you. I Am for you, and I will not allow the pain of this world to attach itself to you. I will wash you with My Word. You will be – you are cleansed. Walk knowing you are clean in Me. Strive to enter My rest."
Your
Abba
(See Psalm 46:10; 91:1; Jeremiah 29:11-13; Matthew 22:37-39; Romans 8:37-39; Hebrews 13:5; Revelation 21:3-5)
Jewels from Judy: Cooperating with the Promises of God
Judy A Bauman
Do the promises of God seem slow in coming, or do you wonder if they are coming at all? Do you wonder if you heard Him correctly or misunderstood what He meant? This was the topic of my conversation with the Lord this morning – New Year’s Day. Here is what the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart, and I pray He will use it to speak to yours as well.
“My child, you misunderstand your part in My promises, and this is what I am teaching you. You are and have been learning that you must cooperate with My promises. I do not want My people to lay down and let Me bestow gifts. It is My desire for My people to engage with Me, so that the victory has greater value. If My beloved ones do not engage in the conquering of a matter, then the success of it is not shared or mutually enjoyed.
“My Desire is to share My victories and that can only be done if My people will engage with My plans and purposes. You live in a time that your forefathers longed to see, so I encourage you to co-labor with Me. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.”
Romans 8:37 “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
Matthew 9:37-38 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”
We have just finished celebrating the biggie of all holidays, Christmas. (Do I hear a collective sigh of relief?) Because of some issues with my health, I was not able to do the things I like to do this time of year.
My husband helped with a lot of what was accomplished, but something he said rattled me a bit. He thought it was great that there were only a few things under the tree. He didn’t know I had wrapped those few gifts with tears streaming down my face because it felt so inadequate. My love language is gift giving and his is acts of service. With that in mind, it is not surprising that my husband and I don’t see eye-to-eye this time of the year on how we show people we that we do indeed care about them.
I think what upset me the most was realizing that I have some of the most amazing women of God for friends, yet I did not give even one of them a gift! This is so out of character for me and it deeply grieved me. Not going to lie.
You may be asking: what pray-tell does this have to do with being children of light? There is something deep down in us that knows (whether we acknowledge God or not) that we are to GIVE to others. Whether it is a Gift, Acts of Service, Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, or Physical Touch (or combinations of these), we all need to be loved and to give love. (From Gary Chapman’s book, The 5 Love Languages) God gave His best, and we are to give ours.
When God spoke “Let there be light,” there was light. Jesus came as the Light of the World, but then commissioned His beloved children to be carriers that Light throughout both the world and the ages. We are not the makers of His Light and Love; we are carriers of it. If we will stay in the middle of what God is doing, if we will arise, as we have heard so many times, and shine, we will see the Light of God reveal more in the days to come than ever before.
This week I plan to seek the Lord for 2018 and beyond. I urge you to seek God for this season. Don’t look for what God is saying to everyone else and cherry-pick from that. Seek Him for yourself, then what you read from others will either confirm or deny what God has made clear to you. (We can’t know a true word if we aren’t studying Scripture, staying vigilant in prayer, and seeking His face daily.) Beloved, when you hear God’s word for yourself, when you see the LIGHT for yourself, then you know that you know. Don’t allow man or demon to cause you to question ‘did God really say?’ Know what He has said, then run the race set before you. Run as a light-bearer. In Jesus’ name and to the Father’s glory, run as a child of God’s light.
Many blessings in the Father’s love,
Judy A Bauman
Posted by: Judy A Bauman AT 12:26 pm
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An Update, an Offer, and an Exhortation -- Can you Hear the Cadence?
Dear Friends of The Father’s Love International Ministries,
Please forgive me for neglecting to keep in touch with you this year. I truly have been focused on writing the second book of encounters with the Lord called, Jewels from the Harvest. It is in the hands of the publisher now, and I will let you know when it is available. If you have not read the first book, Jewels from the River, it sets the stage for this second one because the encounters with the Lord go deeper. While it is not necessary to read the first book to glean from the second one, it will help to understand it better. If you are interested in reading Jewels from the River, it is available online or though my website. I will sign all books ordered through www.thefathersloveim.org. (If you order as a gift, please email me instructions that include the name and address where to mail it.)
It has been a difficult year for me, as it has for many of us, but I am hopeful that 2018 has some blessed times with the Father in store. (More on that will be shared at a later date!) Let me leave you with a short exhortation the Lord shared with me to give you today.
Jewels from Judy: CAN YOU HEAR THE SOUND?
“My dearly loved children, friends and soldiers. There is a sound on the horizon. Do you hear it? It is the sound of My army. It is the sound of cadence. It is the sound of My army marching in step with Me and alongside My heavenly angelic hosts. Can you hear the sound of heaven? Can you hear the cadence in your heart? Do you feel the rhythm beating within every fiber of your being? This is a military like no other. I provided for your atonement and I can provide anything you need in any situation. This army has been given powerful weapons and has been trained to use them by My Spirit because they are spiritual weapons. They are mighty in the pulling down of strongholds. Take every thought captive, beloved, and make your will obey the ways of your King! My will be done. Line up, fall in, march, follow Me.”
He is such a good Abba! This word is very much in line with the encounters I’ve shared in both books! Glory to God!
I pray you have a very blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
Sincerely yours, in the Father’s love,
