FIVE SMOOTH STONES - The Five Ascension Gifts in the Heavenly Shepherds Bag

FIVE SMOOTH STONES — The Five Ascension Gifts in the Heavenly Shepherd’s Bag

was that Paul pointed to his patience. The young man was then reminded, with a loving smile, that those around him were currently exercising great patience with him. He thought for a moment and then agreed and added that he knew he was only saved and alive because of the miracles of God. In short, Paul was pointing to apostolic character before signs (but not in place of those signs). If we look only for supernatural signs, first and foremost, we may place ourselves in danger of eventually being deceived, led astray, or, in the least, hurt unnecessarily. This is not to imply that signs are unimportant, but simply that we should look for the character of Christ first. After all, in the heartof every true apostolic minister is the desire that Christ would be formed in His people (Galatians 4:19). How on earth - or in heaven - can one assist Christ being formed in His people if Christ’s character is not first being formed in the minister? Could Paul say, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ, ” (1 Corinthians 11:1) if he were not imitating Him closely? Jesus said simply, concerning disciples and ministers, that we could know them by their fruit. Many who look first for supernatural power and the fruit which appeared to accompany that power, often overlook some poor character traits in those same ministers. Over time, and through a lot of hard won learning, it should be noted that a lot of the supposed fruit does not remain, and also some of what seems to be fruit is not spiritually nutritious at all. After seeking the Lord on this question, for a way to discern much more quickly the fruit in a ministry, and not have to expend so much time in the process or often experience so much hurt and disappointment, the following became apparent. In contemplating Jesus’ words, “you will know them by their fruit” a seeming dilemma appears, yet only if looking at the fruit from the ministry, rather than the fruit from the minister. There is an important difference. Paul said, “ But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. ” (Galatians 5:22-23) We should realize that we can look for these attributes in the minister’s life and spend a lot less time deciding if we should submit one’s heart to the ministry. A lot less time can be spent in disappointment brought by a minister who might take advantage, or lead in a wrong direction. Simply do not submit to a ministry where

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